the Victorian Parliament against the proposed Hampton Park waste transfer station.
Wearing “WTS WE SAY NO” shirts and holding banners, the group gathered in support of a petition debate led by local Opposition MP AnnMarie Hermans.
The two petitions, with over 4000 signatures, were tabled earlier this year and gained unanimous support in Parliament during the debate.
Ms Hermans called for the government to uphold the EPA’s recent rejection of Veolia’s licence application and to investigate Casey Council’s planning permit decision, issued before the elected council took office.
Concerns were raised over health, safety, and
environmental risks, and calls were made for stronger safeguards, transparent planning processes, and relocation of such facilities to industrial zones.
Crossbench MPs, including Michael Galea, Rachel Payne, Renee Heath and others, condemned the proposal, highlighting its scale—processing half a million tonnes of waste from nine councils—and its proximity to homes, schools, and sporting clubs.
Residents and groups such as the Lynbrook Residents Association expressed pride and emotion, feeling their years of advocacy were finally acknowledged.
However, frustration lingered over the absence of any Ministers during the debate.
Full story page 15
Vernadette Bilbao Dickson from the Lynbrook Residents’ Association, speaking to the crowd of protestors during the waste transfer station rally at the Parliament House’s steps before the debate. (Gary Sissons: 480136)
By Violet Li
Victorian farmers will be spared the hike from the new controversial emergency services levy for one year, as the State Government cited the drought concerns.
Premier Jacinta Allan announced the extension of a drought package to farmers statewide on the morning of Friday 30 May, which included the temporary pause of the recently passed Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF).
This means the ESVF variable rate on farmlands will remain the same as it was in the 2024-25 financial year for the duration of the 2025-26 financial year, which will be applied to rate notices for farmlands automatically.
“By capping the rate of the Emergency Services and Volunteer Fund for primary production properties, we’re ensuring farmers can remain fully focused on their drought response and recovery,” Treasurer Jaclyn Symes said.
The new levy ESVF was passed in mid-May to replace the Fire Services Property Levy (FSPL) from 1 July this year. Variable rates will be higher to “help support a broader range of emergency services”, including VICSES and Triple Zero Victoria.
The hike will hit the farmers the hardest as the median liability for them will grow by more than 85 per cent from $621 to $1120.
The temporary freeze means the variable rate charged on farmers for every $1000 of a property’s capital improved value will remain at 28.7 cents for the next financial year, but the charge will go up to 71.8 cents from the 2026-27 financial year.
Residential rates will not be paused. The median charge will grow by more than 30 per cent from $191 to $254 from 1 July.
Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) has welcomed the 12-month pause.
VFF President Brett Hosking said it represents a step in the right direction as Victoria endures crippling drought conditions across the state and allows more time to talk with the government.
“Pausing the ESL increases for 12 months is the right call, but it doesn’t change the underlying problem: this levy is an unfair cost shift onto farmers,” he said.
“We’ll use this extra time to continue making the case that it needs to be scrapped altogether, not simply paused.”
United Firefighters Union (UFU) Secretary Peter Marshall said the announcement is a temporary pause on the collection of this tax for some people, so it is not a full moratorium, and the tax will hit businesses and homeowners hard this year.
“The Government has made clear that the pause for farmers is for this year only,” he said.
“The laws will remain on the books, and the tax will hang over the heads of every Victorian - including farmers, business and homeowners - for every year to come. The tax will simply continue to pay for the continued attacks on firefighters and their safety.
“We need to see this extra tax discarded entirely, and the laws that enable it repealed so it cannot be reintroduced when the government is no longer facing the intense political pressure that recent protests have produced.
“There should be an immediate public inquiry into the tax, its impact on Victorians, and the political machinations behind today’s announcement.”
Shadow Minister for Agriculture Emma Kealy said delaying the emergency services tax is simply delaying what is an unjustified and unfair tax on Victorian producers, whether it’s drought conditions or not.
“The tax should be scrapped entirely,” she said.
The new levy prompted hundreds of firefighters from statewide to protest in Melbourne city on the morning of the state budget delivery day.
Star News reported then that the Casey community opposed the new levy, saying the new levy was a “cash grab” that would deepen the cost-ofliving crisis.
Hundreds of firefighters from statewide protested in Melbourne city on the morning of the state budget delivery day. Cranbourne FRV firefighter and United Firefighters Union (UFU) Victoria delegate Geoff Barker (right) joined the rest of the firefighters. (Supplied)
Early intervention is key
By Ethan Benedicto
Early intervention remains a key process, as a new study found that one in three men report using intimate partner violence in their lifetime.
A media release by the Australian Institute of Family Studies (AIFS) report, Ten to Men, found that 35 per cent of Australian men aged 18 to 65 years have used intimate partner violence in their lifetime.
It also estimated that 120,000 men nationally, each year, are starting to use it for the first time.
The project, an AIFS longitudinal study of boys and men, is the first national estimate of male intimate partner violence perpetration in Australia.
David Nugent, founder of Heavy M.E.T.A.L, said that as the numbers grow, so does awareness, but “one of the things that a lot of programs and services are not doing is that they are not empowering men to be better men”.
”They’re taking a position of judgement, and trying to push the point for the man to acknowledge that he’s a perpetrator of family violencethat does not empower men to want to change,” he said.
Heavy Men’s Education Towards Anger and Life has its core values rooted in early intervention, addressing behaviours, habits and emotions that have the potential to lead men to become part of the statistics.
There is no dismissing the certain facts and numbers, but Nugent is adamant that while there are facts, there are few to no support services that can properly address the root cause.
The AIFS report detailed that when it was first surveyed in 2013-2014, around one in four men reported ever having used intimate partner violence.
This has since increased to one in three men, with the same cohort as of 2022.
The director of AIFS, Liz Neville, said that the data set, which follows men over a ten-year period, “confirms the extent of the problem”.
“With an estimated 120,000 men starting to use intimate partner violence each year across Australia, we can see more clearly how delays in effective intervention can have devastating consequences.
“We hope these disturbing numbers provide
impetus for further action by governments at all levels, underpinned by evidence,” she said.
Emotional-type abuse was the most common form of intimate partner violence, with 32 per cent of men in 2022 reporting they ever made an intimate partner feel “frightened or anxious”.
Nine per cent admitted ever “hitting, slapping, kicking, or otherwise physically hurting” an intimate partner when they were angry.
However, the study also found that high levels of social support and high levels of paternal affection both reduced the likelihood of men using intimate partner violence.
To Nugent, his goal, since the 20-plus years he began with the group, was to “answer why (statistics) doesn’t bring change”.
“It’s a good thing that they have these statis-
tics, saying that they can own their behaviour, but what are we going to do about it?
“We want men to reach out for help before police get involved, before courts get involved, before child protection gets involved, before she says, I need to take an intervention order, before she feels scared,” he said.
Nugent said that the success Heavy M.E.T.A.L. sees is from the duration of the courses, where he is “holding on to men”, and allowing them that space to be open, to express themselves, their frustrations, worries, wrongs and everything in between, in a judgement-free place.
Vulnerability is also a big factor, where men, constricted by their own rules set in bygone years by a patriarchal society, are seeing themselves chained to dated characteristics of what a ‘true man’ is.
Nugent reflected that these notions and teachings were given to men since they were young, and that he still comes across the same messages.
“I hear it from older people, where those ideas about not crying, telling men not to cry, to not be a sook, to grow some balls, to be real men,” he said.
“What happens in those messages while men are growing up is that it layers shame, and that shame is what we don’t know how to deal with.”
Likewise, men who felt strongly that they had a quality relationship with a father or a father figure during childhood, marked with affection, were 48 per cent less likely to report ever having used intimate partner violence.
The opposite is severe, where men with moderate or severe depressive symptoms were 62 per cent more likely to use intimate partner violence by 2022, compared to men without these symptoms.
The AIFS program lead for Ten to Men, Dr Sean Martin, said that the data provides “a set of risk factors to help support the development of effective policies and programs for young men”.
Martin added that “depressive symptoms and a lack of social connection are not an excuse” and that “violence is always a choice”.
A present issue Nugent has found in men is that men tend not to speak of their feelings or share their emotional experiences, since there is a chance peers, including themselves, will find it awkward.
Communication responding styles are a key strategic implementation at Heavy M.E.T.A.L., where Nugent said it is essential when it comes to delivering understanding from all parties involved.
Spearheading the work he has been doing for over two decades, Nugent remains steadfast that those uncomfortable situations amongst men need to be addressed at earlier stages.
“There are many signs that men want to do this, there are men out there that are hurting, and they don’t want to be in that position,” he said.
“They want to be good husbands, good partners, friends, fathers, they want to be good role models.”
Man to face jail after breach, arson and extortion charges
By Ethan Benedicto
A Narre Warren South man, Bilal Sidani, was sentenced to a total of three-and-a-half years in prison, with a two-year and three-month nonparole period, after a hearing in the County Court on Monday, 2 June.
Sidani was hit with three charges: the persistent contravention of a family violence intervention, arson, and extortion with threat to inflict injury.
Concerning the first charge, Sidani allegedly breached it by attempting to contact numerous protected people multiple times in NovemberDecember 2023 despite an intervention order
issued by Dandenong Magistrates’ Court.
An explanation of the order was provided after it was issued on 13 November, but on the same day, Sidani allegedly sent three TikTok messages and one iMessage to one of the protected people.
This pattern would continue until 30 November; throughout this period, 37 attempts to contact a protected person were made, including attempted calls and Sidani allegedly installing a SimTracker application called Phone Tracker to track the protected person.
Between 3 December and 7 December, Sidani attempted to contact the protected person 73
times, via iMessage, calls, sharing his location, TikTok, and Snapchat, according to prosecutors.
On 30 November, Sidani was also charged with arson after destroying a 2010 Ford Falcon utility by fire.
Then on 5 December, he was also charged with extortion with a threat to inflict injury after he made a demand from the victim to pay $7000.
According to a prosecution summary, Sidani also held a previous criminal record and served a term of imprisonment for threatening to damage property, inflict serious injury and kill, and
persistently breaching a family violence intervention order.
He was also previously convicted of using a carriage service to harass and contravening a family violence intervention order, intending to cause fear or harm.
Furthermore, his criminal history is filled with breaches of court orders and conduct that is related to the threat or actual damage of property.
This also includes threat or endangerment of injury, and two instances of assault.
Prosecutors stated that “his current offending represents a marked escalation of his prior criminal record”.
David Nugent, founder of the Heavy M.E.T.A.L. Group, said that early intervention and providing those safe, comfortable spaces to have uncomfortable conversations about men’s behaviour is essential to quell the rising statistics on men committing intimate partner violence. (Stewart Chambers: 132948)
Police bust syndicate
A 25-year-old Narre Warren South man was among three arrested and interviewed by the Vehicle Crime Squad related to a car rebirthing syndicate.
On Wednesday, 28 May, detectives from the squad, as well as members from the Illicit Firearms Squad, VIPER Taskforce, Echo Taskforce and Gang Crime Squad, executed three warrants in Narre Warren South, Caroline Springs, Meadow Heights, and two factories in Laverton North and Brooklyn.
Police seized a range of allegedly stolen items from across the five addresses, including: a 2020 Nissan Qashqai wagon, allegedly stolen from a Craigieburn business earlier in May, and a 2025 Nissan Pathfinder, allegedly stolen from Nissan prior to being registered.
Officers also seized a range of false, cloned, stolen and homemade number plates, false VicRoads transfer papers and false identification documents, log books from rebirthed vehicles, and vehicle parts, a large quantity of cash, drugs believed to be steroids, and electronic equipment such as mobile phones and computers.
Detective Inspector Julie MacDonald, from the Vehicle Crime Squad, said that “vehicle theft can have an enormous impact on people’s lives”.
“Not only the financial losses associated with having your car stolen, but also losing the freedom of movement for things such as employment or family responsibilities.
“Yesterday’s arrests and seizures are a really satisfying result for Vehicle Crime Squad detectives, and the investigation into the activities of this syndicate remains ongoing,” she said.
All seized vehicles will all be forensically assessed, and police are hoping to return them to their rightful owners as soon as possible.
Alongside the Narre Warren South man, a 31-year-old Caroline Springs man and a 24-yearold Meadow Heights man were also arrested and interviewed.
The Narre Warren South man has since been
charged with eight offences, including dealing property suspected of being proceeds of crime, obtaining property by deception, using false documents and using identification information.
Police alleged that the syndicate was selling stolen vehicles with cloned identifiers taken from online advertisements for legitimate vehicles, as well as placing trackers in stolen vehicles and restealing them in order to sell them again.
The Caroline Springs Man has been charged with 39 offences that include handling stolen goods, dealing property suspected of being proceeds of crime, obtaining property by deception, theft of a motor vehicle, theft, using false docu-
ments and using identification information.
As for the Meadow Heights man, he was charged with 15 offences, including handling stolen goods, dealing in property suspected of being proceeds of crime, obtaining property by deception, using a false document, and using identification information.
The three have been bailed to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 12 August.
The investigation remains ongoing, but the arrests made were part of a Vehicle Crime Squad investigation that commenced earlier this month, looking into rebirthed vehicles then being sold online via Facebook marketplace, primarily in
Melbourne’s north and northwest suburbs.
During this investigation, a total of 10 allegedly fraudulent sales were identified using 14 vehicles, and 12 of these cars have since been recovered.
“It’s not only about recovering vehicles that have been stolen at great loss to their rightful owners, but also preventing any further thefts,” MacDonald said.
“For those in the market for a new vehicle, particularly if they are looking to buy one privately via online marketplaces, then we urge you to be wary of scams such as this.
“Anything where the deal seems too good to be true and the seller is cagey with providing a lot of identification details or pushing for a quick sale should be ringing alarm bells with people.
Police are urging those looking to purchase a vehicle privately to be wary of scams targeting unsuspecting buyers, including a price that is too good to be true, especially where the vehicle is advertised at a much lower price, and the owner not being present and the vehicle is being sold on behalf of another person.
Other things to look out for include pressure on an urgent sale on the same day, ID checks on the seller where they only produce a picture of the ‘owner’s’ license and no card, meet ups occurring in out of the way places, where one key for the vehicle is provided, and vehicles where the VIN sticker and compliance plates have been tampered with.
“We know that with the cost of living that people are looking to get a great deal, but it’s important that the deal doesn’t result in people losing their hard-earned money,” MacDonald said.
“The Vehicle Crime Squad will continue to target those contributing to organised motor vehicle crime in Victoria and shut down any illegal activity of this nature.
“We’d also invite anyone with information about this kind of illegal activity to please contact Crime Stoppers – it can be done anonymously, and we’ll continue to act on these reports.”
A Narre Warren South man was arrested as part of a vehicle rebirthing syndicate on Wednesday, as multiple police taskforces executed warrants at five addresses throughout Melbourne.
Still no say on charges
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
Nearly two years after Victoria’s anti-corruption commission handed down an explosive report on Casey Council, no charges have been laid and the report has temporarily disappeared from the commission’s website.
The Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission (IBAC) released its Operation Sandon report in July 2023 after a five-year investigation of property developers, Casey councillors and state MPs.
The report was damning of several key players – with two councillors accused of accepting more than $1.15 million in payments and in-kind support for promoting a developer and his clients’ interests on council.
Under state law, IBAC is able to refer alleged criminality to the Office of Public Prosecutions, which would decide whether to pursue charges.
“There’s a process for doing that. It hasn’t been done yet,” IBAC acting commissioner Stephen Farrow said in July 2023.
“The advice I have is that will be happening very quickly.”
This week, a IBAC spokesperson said it is “continuing to consult with the Office of Public Prosecutions in respect of what charges (if any) should be filed as a result of Operation Sandon”.
“This process remains ongoing.”
The IBAC spokesperson said: “Through an abundance of caution, reports are temporarily removed from the IBAC website while this process occurs.”
The removal of the Operation Sandon report from the IBAC website was noted by Facebook
page Casey Transparency Advocate last week.
Casey mayor Stefan Koomen said he understood the process “takes time” but Casey’s community needed “closure”.
“It’s a police matter and it’s ongoing. We’re hopeful there’s an outcome for residents and that there’s some closure. We want to move on.”
During Operation Sandon, Casey councillors were sacked en masse in 2020 – plunging the council under the rule of administrators for nearly five years.
Former mayor Amanda Stapledon took her own life in 2022 after receiving a draft of IBAC’s findings.
It was later confirmed by IBAC that she was not at risk of prosecution. She was not named in the report’s ‘adverse findings’ section.
A State Coroner examining her death recommended that IBAC moves to alleviate witness’s uncertainty about being prosecuted as early as possible during investigations.
Among the IBAC Operation Sandon report’s 34 recommendations was to take land planning decisions out of the hands of councillors.
Starting in 2018, the complex investigation spanned 40 days of public hearings as well as seven private examinations.
IBAC acting commissioner Stephen Farrow and deputy commissioner David Wolf release the Operation Sandon report in July 2023. (Cam Lucadou-Wells: 350301)
Cranbourne West industrial site hits market
By Violet Li
Lot sales have started for a historically controversial industrial site in Cranbourne West.
The industrial site at 690 Western Port Highway was historically linked to Operation Sandon, a major anti-corruption investigation by Victoria’s Independent Broad-based AntiCorruption Commission (IBAC), before the real estate developer Salta Properties acquired the land in 2021.
Salta is now selling twelve lots in a precinct called Industrial Quarter (iQ), starting from 6,375 sqm in size, with amalgamation possible.
The iQ site is located 450 metres from the Western Port Highway, with links to the South Gippsland Freeway, Princes Highway, and the Monash Freeway. It provides access to freight and logistics corridors.
Last year in September, Star News reported that the proposed industrial development on the site triggered Federal involvement due to its potential to disrupt the habitats of vulnerable and endangered species.
The developer proposed to remove 0.512 hectares of native vegetation and approximately 50 hectares of non-native vegetation for future construction. An environmental assessment
called Industrial Quarter (iQ) at 690 Western Port Highway. (Supplied)
identified the site as a potential habitat for 15 threatened species, including the swift parrot, southern brown bandicoot, and swamp skink, but no ground-dwelling threatened species were found during field surveys. The developer’s application also argued that the land was of low ecological quality due to past cattle grazing and mostly introduced grasses.
A month later, the Federal department ruled that the proposed removal was “not a controlled action”, which means it does not require formal assessment or approval under the Environment
Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act (EPBC Act). The action can proceed without further federal environmental assessment or approval under the EPBC Act.
According to Salta, this sales launch followed its sale last year of a neighbouring site, 635 Hall Road, to global property groups ESR and Frasers Property Industrial, in a joint-venture deal for a record $200 million-plus.
The launch of iQ sales reaffirmed Salta’s “long-term industrial commitment” to the region, which adds to the property group’s ongoing efforts to establish Victoria’s first inland port, to be located at its Nexus Dandenong South Precinct.
“Our acquisition of the 123-hectare Cranbourne site (690 Western Port Highway and 635 Hall Road) in 2021 made sense for us,” Salta managing director Sam Tarascio said.
“We understood that industrial use remains the most appropriate and productive purpose for this land. Combined with our intermodal rail terminal, which will reshape freight efficiency across the Southeast and reinforce the strategic advantage of our precincts for large-scale industrial users, the corridor will be solidified as the mecca for industrial operations and indus-
trial land value.
“iQ is future development ready, and this first release offers the best sites available for businesses seeking flexibility and long-term growth, perfectly suited to businesses in food production, cold storage, manufacturing, and last-mile logistics.
“The site’s access via a signalled intersection offers a major competitive edge for operators prioritising transport efficiency.”
The 123-hectare industrial site was central to IBAC Operation Sandon before Salta purchased the land.
Developer John Woodman lobbied to rezone the site from industrial to residential use to significantly increase its value.
IBAC’s investigation revealed that Woodman paid over $550,000 to two then-City of Casey councillors in exchange for their support of the rezoning efforts. The rezoning proposal was ultimately rejected by then-Planning Minister Richard Wynne in 2020, citing a shortage of industrial land in the area.
Salta acquired the 123-hectare site in 2021 for a $1.2 billion industrial estate, later selling half (635 Hall Road) to ESR and Frasers.
Salta is now selling twelve lots in a precinct
Celebrating First Nations
By Violet Li
Casey Council’s National Reconciliation Week event attracted hundreds of residents in the region to celebrate Aboriginal cultures and work towards stronger connections.
The free community event on Thursday 29 May included a smoking ceremony, a flag-raising ceremony, live music, and a variety of hands-on cultural activities.
Jaeden Williams, Yalukit Willam man of the Boonwurrung, addressed the public before the ceremony began. He spoke about the emotional journey of reconciliation, which often involves resistance, sadness, guilt, and shame, but these feelings, if processed with care, can lead to accountability, empathy, pride, connection, and love.
“Reconciliation is not just about policies and protocols. It’s about the right relationship,” he said.
“It’s about what we are willing to see, feel, and do with and for one another. And love, real love, is the highest form of respect we can offer.
“It’s important to remember this journey is not a checklist. It’s not linear. We don’t graduate from guilt and get to pride and stay there forever. You might feel empathy today, resistance tomorrow. You might circle back to shame then return to pride again and that’s okay.
“What matters is that we keep choosing to return to truth, to humility, to relationship, and to love.”
He said this year’s Reconciliation Week theme, Bridging Now to Next, was a call to action.
“We are the link between what was and what’s possible. We are the generation that can either pass on silence or pass on strength, and our children, the next generation, are watching how we respond,” he said.
“They’re learning from our courage or our avoidance. They’re inheriting our stories and our silence. So let’s make sure we pass on something worth carrying.
“The goal of this journey isn’t perfection, it’s connection. It’s truth. It’s pride grounded in respect. It’s love grounded in justice. It’s a shared sense of belonging, not through sameness but through deep respect for difference.
“Wherever you are on your journey, just starting, stuck in the comfort or deep in the work, know this, you are not alone. This is our shared path.”
CityofCaseyMayorCouncillorStefanKoomen emphasised that Casey has the second-largest indigenous population of any council in Victoria.
“We felt it was important to acknowledge that and invite residents to come and celebrate that,” he said.
“Today is not just about a one-off event. It’s about building really strong relationships with our First Nations people.”
He said the Council is very proud to have the Aboriginal Gathering Place in Doveton.
“It’s a space where indigenous people can come and learn and share their culture. It’s also open to other members of the community. It’s a really nice space,” he said.
Mayor Koomen was also proud that the Dandenong and District Aborigines Co-operative Limited (DDACL), a key First Nations health and wellbeing organisation in the south east, would have new premises at the Monash Health Integrated Care Centre in Cranbourne. The news was announced two weeks ago after the State Budget was delivered.
Casey Aboriginal Gathering Place artist and elder, Uncle Douglas Smith, attended the event and said it was a good opportunity for everyone to get together here on one occasion to celebrate the same theme.
Volunteering hits the digital age, ready for change
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
Volunteerism is not in decline but it’s in transition – and needs to be more flexible, inclusive and digital, according to a Volunteering Victoria report.
A staggering 3.3 million Victorians – almost 60 per cent of the population over 15 years old –volunteer on average 18 hours a month.
Collectively, they give more than 732 million hours of their time. Based on minimum wages, that’s at least $18 billion in donated time.
Sharp said there’s a lot of change of the volunteering sector – who volunteers and when and how they volunteer.
According to VV’s latest State of Volunteering report, it is young Victorians aged 15-24 years
that lead the way, with the highest rate of volunteerism (69.4 per cent).
For youths, the most common motivation was a desire to give back.
This is despite barriers like study and work demands, financial pressure, transport limitations and some elders questioning their commitment.
Being most digitally fluent, young people are part of the push for more online volunteering opportunities.
Another high-volunteering cohort were culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities (71 per cent) – despite facing higher costs and barriers.
“There’s a really strong sense that there are people from CALD communities that would never all what they are doing is volunteering,” Sharp says.
“It’s nothing official, it’s just part of their identity and part of belonging.”
Across all ages over 15, the average volunteering rate was 58.9 per cent. This is about 500,000 volunteers short of the national rate (64 per cent).
For Sharp, making it easier to sign up as a volunteer is one focus, with 50 per cent of nonvolunteers at least thinking about chipping in. Another is how organisations can retain them.
“A lot of people are not struggling to find volunteers but are finding it harder to keep them.
“We’ve got to focus on how do we sustain them and give them fresh opportunities.
“People want to know what they’re doing is having a real impact – how is what they’re doing making the world a better place.
“They don’t want to spend the next four years sweeping floors to graduate to washing
teacups and then another four years to work in the office.”
Volunteer groups also need to embrace online recruitment and encourage digital participation.
Processes such as Working With Children Checks should be made as simple as possible, and out-of-pocket expenses should be reimbursed, Sharp said.
Volunteers want more flexible, shorter hours, and they expect to be well resourced – not having to fundraise for the required equipment.
During Covid, volunteers were moving from formal volunteering due to barriers such as social distancing requirements, vaccine mandates and lockdowns.
More were opting for more informal volunteering – such as helping out neighbours with grocery runs or putting their bins out.
Jaeden Williams, Yalukit Willam man of the Boonwurrung, hosted the smoking ceremony.
Donuts and a fresh start
Come along to our June village open days and find out why so many love life at Summerset Cranbourne North. Grab a complimentary barista made coffee and a hot jam donut before exploring the beautiful open homes.
When you move into a Summerset village you can enjoy living in a warm, vibrant community with the peace of mind that if your needs change, we offer care and support in the village. Our continuum of care means that if your needs change, our dedicated and professional staff can offer a range of care and living options, subject to availability and entry criteria.
Our village centre, once completed, is set to offer stunning resort-style facilities including a pool, spa, café, recreational bowling green, plus so much more.# Join your neighbours at the resident bar for happy hour or take advantage of one of our village outings – with so much to choose from, you’ll never be bored.
With a range of homes available now, you could be loving the Summerset life sooner than you thought.*
Love the life you choose.
Coffee, donuts, and village tours
Wednesday 11th & Wednesday 25th June 10am to 2pm
Summerset Cranbourne North 98 Mannavue Boulevard, Cranbourne North 03 7068 5642 | cranbourne.sales@summerset.com.au
More history goes under
By Ethan Benedicto
History has been set in stone once more in Narre Warren North as 33 capsules were buried on the afternoon of Thursday, 29 May.
Earlier in March, capsules containing 25 years of history were unearthed, along with memorabilia from the nearby Narre Warren North Primary School, local community groups, the CFA, and even inner-suburban universities such as Monash.
Two months later, new tokens of current-day memories were placed in freshly sealed containers, as students and locals put them to earth one by one.
Michael Allday, the president of Narre Warren Community Association, said that “this is a great achievement”.
“There has been so much consideration from the local community, the people, and everybody really.
“They were more than keen to put buckets back into the hole for another 27 years, and for it to be opened back up in 2052,” he said.
The previous time capsule was opened on 15 March, as hundreds from the local community poured into the Narre Warren North Hall to see relics and pieces from the year 2000.
Since then, the same groups, and some new ones, spent time gathering tokens reserved for those set to open the current capsules down the line.
John Ternel, a member of the Association, was also present, as well as the City of Casey’s mayor, Stefan Koomen, deputy mayor Melinda Ambros, and Grevillea Ward councillor Dave Perry.
Once all the capsules were recorded and present, students from the primary school helped to pass the containers along, as, one by one, they were placed into the ground.
The hole was then covered and cemented on the same day, with a new plaque placed and an opening date for 2052.
“It’s been a really enjoyable time for the community, you know, there have been young people who have never seen anything like this before,” All-
day said.
“Now that they’re growing up, this is something that they can look forward to in 27 years’ time.
“There were also some who didn’t know what a time capsule was, and now this initiative is really bringing the community together.”
Students and teachers from the Narre Warren North Primary School smile on as they wait to place their capsule into the ground. The students who helped with the process got to have the final placement; from left to right: Zane, Monique, Charlie and Cooper. (Ethan Benedicto: 481327)
The students helped pass the capsules along as someone placed them in a neat stack underground. (481327)
A close-up of the capsules underground, set to be covered over and cemented, all to be opened 27 years later. (481327)
Zane, Cooper, Charlie and Monique smile next to the previous plaque that was placed over the previous batch. (481327)
The students, alongside Cr Dave Perry, Mayor Stefan Koomen, and Deputy Mayor Melinda Ambros, preparing to place a capsule. (481327)
Protest deemed negligible
By Ethan Benedicto
An address in Berwick is open for subdivision, after the City of Casey lost a Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal hearing following the application.
Applicant Dilbar Singh has been granted a permit to construct two double-storey dwellings on 13 Carluke Close, following a small change to a restrictive covenant and protests from a neighbouring property.
The VCAT decision was granted on 27 May, allowing Singh to subdivide the 937 square-metre land into two lots, changing said restrictive covenant that initially only allowed one dwelling per lot.
The City of Casey refused the application on one key legal ground, which was based on Section 60(5) of the Planning and Environment Act 1987.
Under this legal threshold, the council argued that a permit to remove or vary must not be granted unless they are satisfied that no beneficiary of the covenant would suffer any kind of detriment, and if any beneficiary objects, it must be causing frustration, worry, or not in good faith.
Building on this, Casey put forward that a beneficiary - a resident on 28 Willslie Crescent, roughly 160 metres away - objected to the application, and despite not being adjacent to the address, argued that their status as a beneficiary of the covenant gives them valid grounds to object.
On the same note, Casey also argued and cited a previous case, Edwards v Maroondah CC [2011] VCAT 1316, which ruled that geographical distance alone does not reduce the weight of a valid objection.
The objector added that they moved into their current residence due to the fact that it was a single-dwelling area, which in turn protects the area’s character.
Casey then emphasised that the set covenant’s purpose is to protect the low-density, green sub-
urban character of the estate.
To back this, the council cited another case, Hill v Campaspe SC [2011] VCAT 949, where VCAT considered general amenity impactsnot just immediate neighbours - as legitimate grounds under Section 60(5).
The objector also highlighted that they feared the approval of the application would then create a precedent or create a trend of covenant removals.
Council corroborated this claim, adding that it
would result in cumulative impacts that could, in time, erode the neighbourhood’s character.
Despite these major points raised by Casey, VCAT ruled that the applicant’s proposed variation of the restrictive covenant would not result in any detriment, which includes perceived detriment, to any of the beneficiaries.
When it came to neighbourhood character, VCAT ruled that the review site was unusually large at 937 square metres, compared to the other nearby dwellings at 600 to 700 square metres; this
made it suitable for two dwellings without disrupting the character.
Likewise, VCAT also noted that there were nearby properties that had rooming houses, twodwelling developments and covenant variations, such as on 3 Carluke Close.
When it came to the objector’s concern regarding setting a precedent, VCAT ruled that planning decisions do not set binding precedents, and that each application is to be assessed on its own merits.
On the topic of the legitimacy of a single resident being the sole objector, being legitimate grounds, VCAT agreed with the council, but doubled down that one objector can block the permit only if their objection has merit.
VCAT ruled that the particular objection was found to be remote and speculative, and was based on generalised fears.
The ruling also added that the objector lives 165 metres away, and would not even pass the site regularly due to its cul-de-sac location.
The council also claimed that the objector’s concerns around increased traffic and an increased strain on local schools due to rising enrolments were valid and could contribute to a broader picture of amenity impacts.
On the other end, VCAT ruled that one extra dwelling adds at most one car, in peak hour, and that the council did not provide evidence that traffic will worsen; likewise, school enrolment impacts from one additional household were deemed speculative and unsupported.
The objector also did not attend the tribunal, did not file a Statement of Grounds, and had a similar record of non-participation in past planning reviews, such as Nguyen v Brimbank CC.
Ultimately, VCAT deemed the council’s and objector’s arguments against the application to be negligible, finding no credible detriment that would arise from the covenant’s variation or the two-dwelling development.
The address at 13 Carluke Close, Berwick, has been approved by VCAT to subdivide, allowing two, twostory dwellings to be constructed on the lot. (Ethan Benedicto: 482516_01)
Train trial underway
The upcoming winter months are set to be filled with local metro tunnel trial operations, as the construction on Clyde Road progresses.
There will be a full day of trial operations on Saturday, 21 June, where new systems and infrastructure will be tested for an extended period of time, impacting operations on the Cranbourne, Pakenham and Sunbury lines.
In Casey, crews on the Clyde Road Upgrade in Berwick will close the Princes Freeway citybound exit ramp onto Clyde Road from mid-June to November.
The Clyde Road entry ramp onto the Princes Freeway Warragul-bound will also be closed from July until October.
For the train lines, this means more trains are set to run throughout the day as compared to the usual Saturday timetable, with passengers on the mentioned lines required to interchange at Footscray and Caulfield to complete their journey.
State Minister for Transport Infrastructure, Gabrielle Williams, said that the Metro Tunnel Project “is gearing up for its first full day of trial operations as it prepares to open to passengers later this year”.
The project is one year ahead of schedule, as crews are scheduled to continue working in the two new CBD stations.
In light of this, from Friday, 29 August to Friday, 5 September, buses will be replacing trains on the Cranbourne, Pakenham, Traralgon and Bairnsdale lines as Suburban Rail Loops crews continue works at Clayton Station to prepare for the tunnelling’s start in 2026.
Information displays on the trains and platforms will reflect future services, so station staff will also be present to assist passengers with understanding how their journey is affected.
The new, high-capacity metro trains have travelled over 140,000 kilometres inside the tunnels, and while these trials continue, disruptions are to be expected throughout the Cranbourne, Pakenham, Sunbury and Gippsland lines.
Two more level crossings will be removed in the north-west, and testing of the locally built XTrapolis 2.0 will continue, with buses to replace trains on sections of the Cranbourne, Pakenham, Frankston, Sunbury and Werribee lines.
“A huge amount of work is underway this winter, with the finish line in sight for Metro tunnel and West Gate Tunnel - city-shaping projects that will ease congestion and cut travel times,” Williams said.
Throughout Melbourne, the West Gate tunnels are near completion, and with this comes some outbound lane and ramp closures on the West Gate Freeway.
Outbound travel will also be reduced to three lanes between Williamstown Road and Millers Road, with the Williamstown outbound onramp to be closed, along with the Millers Road exit ramp.
Four men from the South East have been charged over an alleged brawl in Richmond this year.
Yarra Crime Investigation Unit detectives raided five properties in Seaford, Hallam, Cranbourne East and Clyde North on 28 May.
A 24-year-old from Hallam, a 29-yearold from Botanic Ridge, a 29-year-old from Cranbourne East and a 21-year-old from Frankston were arrested and later charged with violent disorder and affray. They were bailed to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 4 June.
A 29-year-old Seaford man was arrested and released pending further enquiries.
The arrests follow an alleged brawl on Swan Street about 10.15pm on Saturday 22 February.
Police say a group of men became involved in a physical altercation after a sporting match and threw bar stools outside a licensed premises.
Police arrested a 27-year-old Botanic Ridge man nearby but the rest of the group fled the scene.
He was charged the next day with violent disorder and affray, and bailed to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 14 July.
Detectives say they are continuing to investigate the incident.
Further arrests are expected, police say. Any information to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at crimestoppersvic.com. au
Train lines, including Cranbourne and Pakenham, will be among those experiencing a full day of trial operations on 21 June, as buses set to replace trains later in the year. (File)
Discover UK, Ireland, Europe
LEE MCCARTHY
WITH 10 new ocean itineraries in the Mediterranean, United Kingdom, Ireland and Northern Europe now available for 2026 and 2027, Viking have something for everyone, whetherit’safirstor50thvoyage.
The holidays range from eight to 22 days and feature 12 additional recurring ports new for Viking Ocean voyages including stops in Fowey, England; Bordeaux, France; Limerick (Foynes), Ireland; Riga, Latvia; Klaipeda, Lithuania; Londonderry, Northern Ireland; Haugesund, Norway; Palma de Mallorca and Bilbao, Spain; Fort William and Tobermory, Scotland; and Karlskrona, Sweden.
With a fleet of small sister ships, the elegant cruise line offers more than 100 different itineraries across all five oceans.
Viking’s new ocean voyages visit iconic cities, as well as lesser-known destinations, with additional combination voyages also available.
Viking Chairman and CEO Torstein Hagen said as their award-winning fleet of small ocean ships continues to grow, the cruise line was pleased to introduce new voyages that have been thoughtfully planned for curious travellers.
“Every Viking itinerary is focused on the destination, and our state-of-the-art ships, with no children and no casinos, allow guests to explore the world in elegant Viking comfort,” the Chairman said.
One of the new itineraries for 2027 is the British Isles and Ireland 15-day cruise from London to Belfast where guests will traverse the coast of the British Isles and the stunning shores of Cornwall and Scotland.
This voyage is bookended with overnight stays in London and Belfast, allowing guests to explore more of these stunning cities.
As guests discover Ireland’s rugged coastline and visit the ancient city of Limerick, there is time to explore the iconic King John Castle on the banks of the River Shannon.
Explore the quaint town of Fowey and visit ancestors in County Cork, the rich and vibrant cultural centre where Irish cuisine has reached new creative heights.
Witness the preparation of a traditional Irish lunch and visit a family-owned guesthouse or discover the craftsmanship involved in the production of Irish whiskey at the home of Jameson Whiskey, the Midleton Distillery.
Walk among the captivating gardens of Ballymaloe Cookery School and savour a delectable lunch before moving on to Londonderry, which has become a riverside hub for creative culture and where an up-and-coming food scene thrives and traditional music fills the streets from cozy pubs.
Visit historic Glasgow in Scotland and savour the world-famous seafood and craft beers of lovely Loch Fyne or journey to the Burns National Heritage Park for a unique encounter with Scotland’s favourite son, world-renowned poet Rob-
ert Burns.
Take in the highlights of Northern Ireland’s capital Belfast and explore two conflicting neighbourhoods separated by a series of Peace Walls, and view brightly painted political murals or visit the Titanic Belfast Museum, the birthplace of the RMS Titanic.
Also new for 2026 and 2027 is the twelve-day Iberia, France and England Explorer cruise between Lisbon and London.
The cruise offers a wide-ranging sojourn to historic cities in Europe. From the vibrant streets of Lisbon to the wine-rich region of Bordeaux, guests visit destinations that are rich in history,
culture and gastronomy.
Explore Bilbao with its majestic Guggenheim Museum, quaint old town and delicious pintxos, displays of which are truly works of art.
Admire A Coruna’s attractions from the ancient Tower of Hercules to idyllic Orzan Beach.
Sample the cherished brandy on a “Privileged Access” visit to the historic Camus distillery in Bordeaux or sample oysters plucked fresh from the sea in Arcachon.
Drive into one of France’s most celebrated wine regions to enjoy a tour and lunch at a family-owned vineyard within the largest estate in the appellation of Lalande-de-Pomerol.
Walk in the footsteps of Monet with a trip from Giverny to Rouen and witness all that inspired this brilliant impressionist.
Learn to prepare a three-course Norman menu, then share a meal at your chef’s lovely rural home. In the heart of the Auge region.
Catch the first glimpse of Dover, the doorway into England and experience regal London as the ship sails the iconic Thames River, the beating heart of the capital, London.
For additional information, contact Viking on 138 747 (AU) / 0800 447 913 (NZ) or visit www. viking.com
The town of Cobh is the gateway to Cork, Ireland’s second-largest city and home to nearby Blarney Castle.
Enjoy a guided walking tour of Tobermory built as a fishing port during the late 18th century.
Visit the picturesque town of Fort Augustus and sail across the tranquil waters of Loch Ness.
Explore the highlights of Tobermory from the sea and learn about life below the ocean waves.
Visit the humble cottage where poet Robert Burns was born. Fully restored, it depicts what life was like throughout his childhood.
Visit a family-owned guesthouse to learn about Ireland and witness the preparation of a traditional Irish lunch at Lynnwood House, a beautiful Victorian home nestled in the heart of Cobh.
Viking named best of best
This year marks the 26th anniversary of the Reader’s Digest 2025 Trusted Brands Awards of Australia, making it one of the oldest and most respected consumer awards initiatives in the local market, celebrating the brands Australians trust most.
The awards, compiled by an independent survey of more than 4000 Australians, represent a snapshot of the Australian population, capturing their opinions on which brands of products and services are most important to them, making it the ‘people’s choice’ survey.
This year, a new category was introducedthe River Cruise Operators Category, which Viking Australia and New Zealand Managing director Michelle Black said the group was thrilled to win.
“We are incredibly honoured that the Reader’s Digest community has recognised Viking as ‘Australia’s Most Trusted Brand’ in the highly competitive category of River Cruise Operators,” she said.
“This recognition is a testament to the trust we’ve earned by consistently delivering culturally immersive river voyages that resonate with our guests.
“This recognition as a ‘Trusted Brand’ in Australia underscores the strong connection we’ve built with our local community and the unwavering trust our guests place in us.”
Reader’s Digest magazine Asia Pacific Editor-in-Chief Louise Waterson was full of praise for the cruise line.
“With its extensive and fascinating range of destinations for The Thinking Person, Viking has built a reputation over 28 years of sharing the world with its curious guests,” Waterson said.
“As the first winner in the new River Cruise Operators category of the 2025 Most Trusted Brands survey, the team at Viking are to be congratulated for setting such a high benchmark in the industry.
“This endorsement is proof that Viking’s efforts to ensure their guests have only the best choices in river journeys, visiting some of the world’s most culturally charming and captivating locations, have been well worth it.”
Viking has many points of difference, including world-class guest lecturers, resident historians, destination performances, an onboard cooking school, port talks, destination insights, resident musicians, and curated libraries.
What the cruise line doesn’t have is children under 18, casinos, charges for Wi-Fi, spa, laundry, beer and wine with lunch or dinner, formal or themed nights, inside staterooms, smoking and there is no charge for alternate restaurants.
Guests can choose between five categories
Guests can choose between five categories of spacious rooms, and all come with king-sizebeds, large showers, heated bathroom floors, LCD TVs, multiple US/EU outlets and USB ports, private verandas, and 24-hour room service.
of spacious rooms, and all come with king-size beds, large showers, heated bathroom floors, LCD TVs, multiple US/EU outlets and USB ports, private verandas, and 24-hour room service.
Cruises include River Cruises to Europe, Asia, Egypt and Mississippi; Ocean Cruises in-
clude Scandinavia, British Isles and Ireland, North America, Caribbean and Central America, South America, Mediterranean, Quiet Season Mediterranean, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, World Cruises, Grand Journeys; Viking Expeditions include trips to Antarctica, The Arctic, the Great Lakes, North America, South America, Longitudinal World Cruises.
Viking was founded in 1997 and provides destination-focused journeys on rivers, oceans and lakes around the world. The cruise line was designed for curious travellers with interests in science, history, culture and cuisine. For additional information, please contact Viking on 138 747 or visit www.viking.com
Each Viking ship features a curated library for travellers to research upcoming destinations.
The main pool with open roof and jacuzzi treats guests while at sea or after onshore excursions.
The spacious and luxurious theatre on board Viking’s ocean cruise lines.
Viking ships feature a stunning atrium complete with the piano centrepiece.
With the Viking inclusive value, there is no additional charge to dine-in Manfredi’s Italian Restaurant (pictured) and The Chef’s Table.
LEE MCCARTHY
GRAND MEDITERRANEAN EXPLORER
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MEDITERRANEAN EXPLORER
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SET SAIL: OCT 2026; FEB-JUN, AUG 2027
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Uncover the history, culture and traditions of the world’s most captivating destinations – for less.
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All-Inclusive Cruise
10 night all-inclusive luxury cruise on board Silver Cloud
Visiting: Broome, Buccaneer Archipelago (overnight in port), Adele Island, Hunter River (overnight in port), Ashmore Reef, Vansittart Bay, King George River, Darwin (overnight in port)
Includes one shore excursion per guest at every port
Pre-paid gratuities and WI-FI on board
In-suite butler service and fully stocked fridge for all suites
All-inclusive beverages including fine wines, beers and premium spirits
Hotel Stays
2 night four-star stay in Broome at the Mangrove Hotel
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Hampton Park out in force
By Violet Li
Hampton Park and its surrounding residents travelled far to Parliament on a rainy Wednesday afternoon to support a debate against the proposed Hampton Park waste transfer station.
More than 50 residents braved the weather and travelled more than 40 kilometres to the Parliament on Wednesday 28 May to attend a petition debate led by local Opposition MP AnnMarie Hermans.
Wearing “WTS WE SAY NO” shirts and holding a “STOP THE WTS PROTECT HAMPTON PARK” banner, they peacefully rallied against the proposed facility before the debate.
Ms Hermans tabled two petitions with more than 4000 signatures to stop the construction of the proposed Hampton Park waste transfer station in parliament back in February.
The petitions were moved on Wednesday night after a debate, gaining unanimous support across the crossbenchers.
Ms Hermans called on the relevant ministers to support the EPA’s refusal if challenged at VCAT, based on health, safety, and environmental risks.
She also called for investigating the legal basis of the planning permit issued by Casey Council, revoking the permit that was approved contrary to EPA findings, conducting a probity audit into Casey Council’s governance, focusing on potential conflicts of interest, and identifying an alternative site in an appropriate industrial area, away from homes and with access to rail infrastructure.
The two petitions were tabled before the EPA rejected the development licence of the proposed waste transfer station in April; however, Veolia appealed the rejection as it was made outside the prescribed legal timeframe. The matter has now been in the hands of VCAT, the state tribunal.
A separate planning permit was approved by Casey Council before the elected councillors last year. This year, the newly elected councillor group have moved against the proposed facility.
“If VCAT overturns the EPA’s refusal and allows this waste station to go ahead in this area, the government needs to defend the EPA’s decision, because the location is inappropriate and there are genuine health, safety and environmental concerns,” Ms Hermans said when opening the debate on Wednesday night.
“The energy minister publicly opposes a waste-to-energy facility in Wollert, neighbouring her electorate, despite masterminding these plans. Meanwhile, the Deputy Prime Minister opposed one in Lara, the area which he represents in federal Parliament. If this facility was no good for the people of Wollert or Lara, why is it acceptable for the people in my community?
“While we support recycling and waste into energy, these facilities need to be positioned away from residential areas.
“Sporting clubs, schools and community groups like Lynbrook Primary, the Hampton Park Junior Football Club and the Hazara Shamama Association are concerned about the risk to their community and young people and feel they have been ignored.”
The opening speech was met with loud applause from the public gallery, and the president of the Legislative Council had to remind everyone that no audience participation was encouraged.
During the debate, Labor MP for South-Eastern Metropolitan Michael Galea said it was “very disappointing” that the planning permit for the proposed waste transfer station was decided before the elected council last year, and he welcomed and supported the EPA’s rejection.
“I sincerely hope that an alternative location can be found,” he said.
Legalise Cannabis MP Rachel Payne high-
lighted at the debate that Veolia’s proposed waste transfer station would process the rubbish of nine councils, making it the biggest waste transfer station in Victoria, crunching through half a million tonnes of waste each year.
“It is also the only waste transfer station of this scale not planned in an industrial area,” she said.
“I do not think it is okay to dump half a million tonnes of waste into people’s homes. “That is why I have joined the community in their fight to stop this obscene proposal, because it is not okay to treat people like rubbish.”
Liberal MP Renee Heath condemned the “reckless, inequitable and shamefully arrogant way this government has handled the proposed waste transfer station”.
“This is a community that has had more than its fair share. It lives in the shadow of one of the state’s largest landfills. It absorbs the trucks, the odours, the noise and the risk. Now the government wants to add 550,000 tonnes of commercial waste a year to a site just 54 metres from homes,” she said.
“There was no social impact statement, no proper environmental effects statement and no genuine consultation with culturally and linguistically diverse residents, despite this being one of Victoria’s most multicultural and disadvantaged regions.”
The debate night saw familiar faces in the crowd, including several Casey Councillors and several local candidates who ran for the Federal Election this year.
A spokesperson of Lynbrook Residents Association (LRA), which represents the residents of five suburbs surrounding the proposed waste transfer station and organised the rally, said there was an overwhelming sense of pride and validation across the community.
“Many of us were moved to tears witnessing years of advocacy formally recognised at the highest level,” they said.
“Seeing our concerns echoed in Parliament reaffirmed that our voices matter—this is not just about a development; it’s about protecting the wellbeing of our families and our future.”
The spokesperson hoped that the government would act swiftly and decisively on the actions called for in the petition.
“Now that it has received unanimous support, we are urging the government to take meaningful steps, especially to ensure that community health, environmental safeguards, and transparency are placed above commercial interests,” they said.
“We also call for stronger safeguards to prevent similar proposals from being fast-tracked near residential areas in the future.
“Most importantly, we hope this marks a turning point where community voices are no longer sidelined but genuinely respected and embedded in planning decisions.”
Ms Hermans said it was unfortunate that the government had a backbencher respond and did not have a single Minister respond at the debate.
“It is quite damning of the government, as the
Minister for Planning (in the other place) can fix this rubbish dump and waste transfer situation effective immediately, thereby rendering an appeal to VCAT irrelevant,” she said.
“Interestingly, the Minister didn’t even have the courtesy to attend or listen to the debate in the chamber.”
Minister for Planning Sonya Kilkenny responded to the two petitions in March, claiming that she did not have the ability under the Planning and Environment Act 7987 to overturn or vary a decision once a council has issued a planning permit.
“The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal is the appropriate forum to seek a review of this matter,” she stated.
“Any request for an investigation into the council’s conduct should be directed to the Victorian Ombudsman or the Local Government Inspectorate.”
As for the actions called in the petitions, Ms Hermans said it might put more pressure on the situation and on the government.
“It wasn’t opposed by the government but. Unfortunately, we got little more than a nod of sympathy yesterday,” she said.
When inquired, a Victorian Government spokesperson said: “We would encourage Veolia to continue to engage with the EPA, to identify the most suitable location for its proposed waste transfer station.
“As the matter is before VCAT, it would be inappropriate to comment further.”
Hampton Park and its surrounding residents rallied in front of the Parliament on a rainy Wednesday afternoon to support a debate against the proposed Hampton Park waste transfer station, led by local Opposition MP Ann-Marie Hermans. (Gary Sissons: 480136)
Local Opposition MP Ann-Marie Hermans showed up and addressed the crowd before the debate.
Legalise Cannabis MP Rachel Payne addressed the crowd before the debate.
Legalise Cannabis MP Rachel Payne and Vernadette Bilbao Dickson from LRA.
Vernadette Bilbao Dickson from LRA was addressing the crowd before the debate.
LRA president Scott Watson was addressing the crowd before the debate.
The crowd.
More than 50 residents braved the weather and travelled more than 40 kilometres to the Parliament.
A heartfelt morning tea
Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre hosted Biggest Morning Tea in support of the Cancer Council on Wednesday 29 May.
Guests received a beautiful, tiny china teapot on arrival, and wrote messages on heart-shaped paper to their loved ones touched by cancer.
According to a spokesperson of the centre, Morning tea was a delicious spread of homemade treats lovingly prepared by the Committee of Management and volunteers.
There was a game of Guess the Number of Lollies in the Jar and a door prize of a beautiful arrangement of flowers, donated by one of Merinda Park’s generous community members.
Guests included City of Casey Councillor Carolyn Eaves and Casey Citizen of the Year 2025 Anthony Hanna, who is the vice president of Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre.
“Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre raised over $320 for the Cancer Council and wishes to thank all who attended and have donated to this really important cause,” the spokesperson said.
Community members were at the Biggest Morning Tea at Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre. (Gary Sissons: 480873)
Winner of the raffle prize Kawar Hehar was presented the gifts by Reigan Reed.
Anthony Hanna, 2025 Casey Citizen of the Year and vice president of Merinda Park Community Centre, was enjoying the Biggest Morning Tea.
Cassandra Thaddaus, the centre manager, was with a couple of paintings that the local kids helped with.
Burned by broken system
By Afraa Kori
Upper Beaconsfield business owner Aaron Lafranchi has launched a petition demanding fair payment and better protections for subcontractors working on government-funded projects.
He’s part of a growing grassroots campaign— Subcontractors for Accountability (SFA)—fighting to fix a broken system that has left many unpaid and unsupported after major builder collapses.
The campaign is being driven by SFA—a volunteer-led grassroots movement made up of tradies, small business owners, and subcontracting companies who have worked on public infrastructure projects like schools, community hubs, and childcare centres.
“We’re not a union. We’re not politically aligned. We’re just the ones who do the work, and have the most to lose when the system fails,” Aaron said.
“This isn’t about attacking the building industry — we work with fantastic builders. It’s about accountability and fairness when the system fails.”
SFA said the current system leaves them abandoned when builders collapse—especially on government-funded projects. They’re routinely told to “take it up with the builder or administrator,” even when government bodies still hold project funds or guarantees.
Two major government-funded projects—the Clyde childcare centre and Coburg High School— highlight how broken the current system is for subcontractors.
On the Coburg High School project, Aaron’s company, Flowmotion Plumbing and Roofing, based in Pakenham, is currently owed more than $300,000. Another Pakenham-based business, Metarom Steel, is still waiting on nearly $600,000 in unpaid work.
At the Clyde childcare centre project, Aaron’s team completed all roofing and cladding work to specification and even warned Casey council that the builder was likely to collapse. Despite this, the warning was ignored, the builder folded, and Aaron’s company was shut out of any payment or
follow-up engagement—while other subcontractors were paid in full.
This also happened on countless other jobs where retentions and security funds were claimed, but the contractors who earned them never saw a cent.
“The lack of consistency is what hurts most. Some get paid. Others don’t. It’s left to silence, spin, or luck,” SFA said.
“Many are dealing with financial loss, anxiety, and even losing homes.”
This isn’t just about one company—it’s about dozens of subcontractors across Victoria, many of them small, family-run businesses, who upheld their end of the contract and have been left unpaid with no support and no resolution path.
“We want to make the Australian building industry something we can all be proud of again—a system that rewards the true Australians who show up every day, do the work, and build the foundations of this country,” SFA said.
The campaign is calling for urgent investigations into false statutory declarations, clearer communication and greater transparency from government authorities, and the establishment of a dedicated hardship fund for unpaid subcontractors. At its core, the movement is pushing for a system that properly protects the very people who
physically build public projects.
“This is about raising the standard, restoring accountability, and building an industry that rewards skill, ethics, and hard work—not deception,” SFA said.
For the subcontractors, this campaign is about more than just money and keeping their business alive—it’s about the toll on families, mental health, and livelihoods. Many are being forced to choose between groceries and fuel, dipping into super, or letting long-time staff go.
“When we say people are struggling with mental health and suicidal thoughts, it’s not a campaign line—it’s the truth we hear every single week,” SFA said.
“Doing nothing is not a neutral act. Doing nothing costs lives. Doing something—even something small—can help save them.
“That’s why we’re asking the public to care. To stand with us. To share our stories. Because this fight isn’t just about subcontractors—it’s about what kind of system, and what kind of country we want to build.”
Almost every local MP SFA contacted including those whose electorates include affected projects has failed to respond.
“This kind of silencing sends the message that subcontractors are too inconvenient to acknowl-
Scribe Tribe gears for third volume release
By Ethan Benedicto
The Scribe Tribe group in Balla Balla Community Centre is looking to launch their third compendium of works on Wednesday, 11 June, as the clique gathers to get lost in each other’s words in the coming days.
The third volume, called the Scribe Tribe Volume Three, from the writers of Balla Balla, is a collection of short stories, poems and other forms of writing by local community members, whether they be aspiring poets, storytellers, or just those simply eager to share their creative visions.
On Tuesday, 3 June, just over a week before the official launch, the Tribe gathered in the centre to share their regular theme-based pieces, led and facilitated by renowned author Roderic “Rod” Grigson.
Gathered in one of the many rooms in the centre, the group of five Tribe members, plus Rod, were asked how it made them feel to have a space to share their creative pieces.
“I was asked by the centre’s previous manager to revive a writing group that had been around for maybe seven to eight years before I came to the scene,” Rod said.
“It was sort of dying off, but I’ve been doing this for, also, around seven to eight years, and we’ve got a pretty healthy writing group now.”
The group has 16 members, and roughly the same number of writers who have contributed to the third novel.
While not all members come every time the Tribe gathers, Rod said that “it’s always great to see people coming out of their shells”.
“People who think they’re not good writers who are actually very good, but don’t have the confidence to write something, you see that a lot,” he said.
Program coordinator Lauren McCarthy said that being part of the group, the program, and even just seeing it all unfold “is amazing”.
“I was thrilled when there was a writing group, and I just love being involved, especially when we see so many people from different backgrounds taking part,” she said.
During the session on Tuesday, Tribe mem-
edge, let alone support,” SFA said.
In contrast, the Victorian School Building Authority (VSBA) has engaged with SFA and is reviewing how they might assist with the Coburg matter.
“While we appreciate their willingness to engage, as of now, no clear outcome or assistance has been confirmed — and that uncertainty is exactly what drives this movement,” SFA said.
In his 2022 and 2025 election victory speech, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese shared a message of hope such as “lifting people up, backing small businesses, respecting working Australians and not leaving anyone behind.”
“We cheered those words. We believed in them. But for subcontractors, those values have not been honoured,” Aaron said.
“What we’ve seen instead is a system that: leaves subcontractors unpaid for government work. Offers no communication or support. Allows bad actors to profit and walk away while those who did the work lose everything.”
City of Casey’s Chief Financial Officer Melissa Baker said “in its procurement activity, the City of Casey complies with the Building and Construction Industry Security of Payment Act 2002, ensuring its construction contracts align with the Act’s requirements“.
“This includes clearly defined payment terms, fair entitlement to progress payments, and inclusion of dispute resolution mechanisms. Council also follows public procurement principles that promote transparency and accountability, including financial due diligence checks on successful tenderers, to ensure subcontractors are paid promptly and can access adjudication if disputes arise,“ she said.
Premier Jacinta Allan was appproached for a comment.
Sign the petition: https://www.change.org/p/ fair-payment-and-protection-for-subcontractorson-government-projects?utm_medium=custom_ url&utm_source=share_petition&recruited_by_ id=f214a9e0-ec53-11e6-8be1-45a8c1190260
bers took turns reading out their short story pieces revolving around the theme of science fiction.
From there, as each Tribe member read their pieces out, it became increasingly clear the diversity of interpretation of what sci-fi meant to each writer.
Some wrote about the over-accomplishment of artificial intelligence hampering the creative desires of writers, highlighting technology’s ‘perfection’ sucking away at the ‘flaws’ that give human creation depth.
Rod wrote about personal conflicts, the proliferation of corporate involvement in human lives, and the use of technology such as the web and other similar platforms to inflict harm.
What seems to be a common underlying notion, however, was the correlation of the advancement of technology with the downfall of humanity; from nature, to the very fibres and psyche of what makes human, human.
As each person finished reading their piece, Rod and the others allowed time for reflection, giving comments on what parts they liked and what parts really grabbed their attention.
“For me, this whole thing is great, and I really enjoy bringing people out of their shells and exposing them to the world,” he said.
“In the group, we’ve got some really good, well, very good writers, and every day, you can see them improving.
“You can see that journey through the three
volumes of the Scribe Tribe series, because some of them are the same writers, and when you read their stories, you can really see that growth.”
For now, the Tribe is biding their time, excitement growing as they wait for the official announcement to come.
Rod, on one hand, is always looking for more members, urging those from the local area to join and try their hand at creative writing.
For more information on the Scribe Tribe and other writing workshops at Balla Balla Community Centre, visit caseyconnectlearn. com.au/listing/writing-group-the-scribe-tribe/ or ballaballa.com.au/programs/ for the program guide.
Rod Grigson, during the Tuesday gathering of the Scribe Tribe at Balla Balla Community Centre. (Ethan Benedicto: 482496)
BERWICK
TIP-STARS
Karen Eyssens Star
Bakhtar Community Organisation
Bakhtar Community Organisation is pleased to introduce Becoming Whole Again, a 6 – 10 week psychoeducational group program designed to support the mental health and wellbeing of newly arrived refugees and asylum seekers in Victoria.
Commencing on Thursday, 13 June at 11AM, the program will take place at Bakhtar Community Organisation, 23–47 Gunns Road, Hallam VIC 3803. Facilitated by experienced practitioners Kellie King and Matthew Shires, this trauma-informed initiative creates a safe, inclusive space to explore identity, healing, and belonging through storytelling, art, movement, and community connection. The program is designed to be fully accessible, requiring no reading or writing skills, and includes the use of easy English, visual aids, and interpreters or translated materials where available. Each participant will be guided in creating a personal Living Book, a visual journal reflecting their unique journey.
• For registration, please contact the organisation. M: (03) 9703 2555 Email: info@bakhtar. org.au
Cranbourne Chamber of Commerce
Cranbourne Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Frankston Business Collective, are proud to announce that the Victorian Small Business Commissioner, Lynda McAlary-Smith, is coming to Cranbourne on 19 June 2025!
The presentation will cover the role of the Victorian Small Business Commission in assisting small businesses, including: Helping small businesses know their rights and obligations to resolve disputes; Pre-mediation and low-cost mediation; Guidance for small businesses in areas such as retail leasing rights.
Date: Thursday 19 June 2025 Doors open 6.30pm 7pm Presentation by Lynda McAlary-Smith, Victorian Small Business Commissioner
VENUE: Merinda Park Learning & Community Centre, Cranbourne North
FREE for Members, $20 for Non-Members
Casey Winter Arts Festival
Time: 20 June - 20 July
In 2025, we are inviting you to “Cozy up” at the Winter Arts Festival and get to know the talented local artists who make our community shine. Whether it’s exploring exhibitions and demonstrations, enjoying a live show, or participating in hands-on workshops, this festival invites you to experience the rich variety of artistic expressions that make our local arts scene so unique. Theatre companies, artists, crafters, dancers, community groups, venues and libraries are hosting an exciting range of events and activities for people of all ages, so join us and discover the diverse voices shaping our creative landscape.
To see the programs, visit: casey.vic.gov.au/winter-arts-festival
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.
U3A Casey – Chair Yoga
Seniors are invited to try out this new gentle exercise, stretching and breath control class, provided by U3A Casey. Chair Yoga improves your flexibility, posture and strength.
No equipment is needed – just you and a bottle of water!
After a first try-out, U3A membership to continue with Chair Yoga, or any of the other 75 classes, is $60 (Jan to Dec) or $30 (July to Dec).
A small additional weekly class fee will be required, which will reduce depending on numbers enrolled.
When: Mondays from 12.00 pm to 1.00 pm Where: Hunt Club Family Community Centre, 40 Broad Oak Drive, Cranbourne East.
Enquiries:
• Visit our website at www.u3acasey.org.au
• Phone our office on 0493 280 458 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.
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 terms- 9:30-11:30am - 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
• 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 wellbeing 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
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
Casey Cardinia Life Activities Club
Are you new newly retired, or new to the area, or just wanting to enjoy your freedom as a senior or expand your social life?
Casey Cardinia Life Activities Club can offer you stimulating activities and friendship.
The club hosts weekly social activities with dance to low-key in-line dancing if you want to tap your feet, great music, a chat, and then afternoon tea.
Day, short and long trips away via coach, a weekly morning coffee club, monthly Saturday country pub lunches, monthly Tuesday dine-outs, a weekly walking group, a weekly table tennis group, seasonal daytime musical theatre outings, entertainment function days and more.
Anyone interested can visit on Thursdays at 2pm for socialising and low-key dancing at Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House at 21A Bemersyde Drive or join the club for a coffee and a chat every Wednesday from 10am at the new François cafe in front of Myer in Fountain Gate.
• For more information, contact enquiry officer Gloria on 0468 363 616.
Balla Balla Community Centre
Playgroup – Balla Balla Bubs for families with baby (0-12 months) and Playgroup (1-4years). All our Playgroups are led by Early Learning Educators and are a great opportunity for families to make friends, socialise children and enjoy craft, singing, sensory play, Storytime and more. Enrol online https://ballaballa.com.au/children-youth/ Health & Wellbeing – Pilates, Yoga, Zumba, Walking Group, Tai Chi - Regular exercise has been shown to help boost energy levels and enhance your mood. It may also be associated with many other health benefits, including a reduced risk of chronic disease.
Look after your social wellbeing by joining our Men’s Discussion Group – ideal for men over 50; Mindfulness Meditation – learn to enhance your self-awareness and recognise your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. This awareness can lead to better understanding of how one communicates and interacts with others. Further details onlinehttps://ballaballa.com.au/health-wellbeing/ Morning Melodies is back! Held the 2nd Tuesday each month. Our featured entertainers will sing the songs you know and love. Enjoy a cuppa, scone with jam and cream, make friends and have some fun.
Enrolments and bookings can be made in person or phoning the centre between 9am -3pm.
• Online enrolments can be made - https://ballaballa.com.au/programs/ Combined Probus Club of Narre Warren
The club welcomes men and women to join for fun and interesting activities.
The club hosts bowling, armchair travel, book clubs, walk and talk, happy snappers and cards. For enquiries, contact Heather at hsims14@gmail. com
Scrabble Club
Berwick Activities Club has started a Scrabble Club recently and it runs every Friday from 1pm to 3.30pm.
It will be both competitive and social on a one-toone basis.
Come along to learn how to play or improve your game.
Word lists and more will be available to increase your skills.
• Contact David on 0433 566 456.
Berwick Springs VIEW Club
Affiliated with The Smith Family, the Berwick Springs VIEW Club is a not-for-profit organisation, with the aim to fundraise to support Learning for Life students.
The club currently supports 10 students of varying ages with their education expenses.
The club meets on the first Monday of each month in the Berwick Springs Hotel function room from 11.15am, where members enjoy lunch and then host a guest speaker.
Throughout the year, the club has a couple of special fundraisers, as well as casual morning tea and lunch for interested ladies.
The club is always looking for new members in all age groups.
• For more information, contact Shirley on 0438 191 759 or email berwicksprings.viewclub@ gmail.com
BADFolk Club
Berwick and District Folk Club meets on the third Friday of each month.
Doors open at 6.30pm, with the music running from 7pm to 10pm with entry $15.
• For more information, visit badfolkclub.org or contact Edward on 0418 535 264.
Craft classes
Join Berwick Activities Group’s Elizabeth to discover the world of papercraft and have a chat with like-minded people.
Tuesdays from 10am to noon at Timbarra Community Centre at $5 per class, all materials supplied.
• Contact admin@berwicknc.com.au or phone 9704 1863.
Chair dancing
Would you enjoy exercising from the comfort of your chair?
Join the Berwick Activities Group for some seated movement sessions from 10.45am to 11.30am on Wednesdays including fun and uplifting songs and different styles and eras of music.
Timbarra Community Centre at $8 per session.
• For more information, contact admin@berwicknc.com.au or phone 9704 1863.
DnD at Orana
Dungeons and Dragons (DnD) is an inclusive tabletop, fantasy, role-playing game.
Participants work together with other players to go on adventures in the DnD world.
You can act, explore, instigate, solve problems, and tell stories as you bring their chosen character to life within the game world.
Second Saturday of each month, 1pm to 9pm, Orana Community Place, 16/18 Playwright St, Clyde North.
• For enquiries and to book a spot at the table, reach out to Jonathan Whelan at thestoryweaver.dnd@gmail.com
Weekly badminton
All are welcome for badminton from 7pm to 9pm on Mondays and from noon to 2.30pm on Wednesdays 12pm-2.30pm at Hallam Badminton Club at Frawley Road Recreation Reserve; $5.
Eagles outlasted at Holm
By Jonty Ralphsmith
Beaconsfield’s stranglehold on a top-three position in the Eastern Division 1 competition has been weakened following a surprise 10.8(68) to 9.8(62) defeat to lowly Bayswater.
A tight tussle for most of the afternoon, Beaconsfield threatened at times to break away from Bayswater but was never able to generate sustained momentum, leading by just seven points at the final change.
Bayswater kicked two of the first three goals in the last quarter, with Beaconsfield forward Charlie Muley kicking an important stabiliser to keep the pressure on a side which had just one win coming into the game.
But Bayswater, kicking to the scoring end, kicked back-to-back goals at the 16-minute-mark to extend the margin to two kicks.
The two majors, both from distance and following marks inside 50, were emblematic of the visitors’ ability to win the big moments against a Beaconsfield outfit which struggled to get its usually fluid ball movement going and to connect with the efficiency that has lifted it into premiership contention this season.
After Bayswater had the running and locked it in their forward end for an extended period midway through the quarter, Beaconsfield got the territory for most of stoppage time, but struggled to find space or effectively penetrate Bayswater’s relentless defence.
Forward thrusts were intercepted or spoiled, and time was closed down by swarming tacklers.
Patrick Ward eventually broke through for a crumbing goal to give the Eagles a chance to equalise late.
While Beaconsfield won the subsequent centre clearance, and largely locked it in the forward half, it struggled to find marks – or possessions –inside 50 in the dying stages.
Jake Aarts sent the ball to the teeth of goals one final time with the siren sounding before a Beaconsfield player could attempt a contested mark.
Youngster Ethan Winterton had a breakthrough game at senior level, while Finn Devine continued his fine season in defence.
It’s an inopportune time for the Eagles to suffer a loss, with the 6-1 Park Orchards on the horizon in their next game, following the King’s Birthday long weekend league-wide bye.
EASTERN FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE DIVISION 1 REVIEW - ROUND 8
The match while provide an effective measurement for where Beaconsfield sit and how close to the best they are.
But a second consecutive loss would likely put them equal on points with fourth-placed Boronia and open up a gulf between themselves and the top two.
EASTERNDIVISION1
Beaconsfield Goals: Myles Currie 2, Marley Appleyard, Hayden Brough, Charlie Muley, Taelor Reyment, Devon Smith, Travis Stewart, Patrick Ward. Best: Ethan Winterton, Jack Docherty, Finn Devine, Ethan Harris, Tylah Stokoe, Connor Mouat.
Bayswater Goals: Paul Haasbroek 2, Christian Poe 2, James Hepburn, Matthew Higgins, Harrison Law, Benjamin Mantel, Ben Travers, Josh Treeby. Best: Christian Poe, Tim Castricum, Paul Haasbroek, Jake Lewis, James Hepburn, Matthew Higgins.
Results R8: South Belgrave 19.18 132 v Mooroolbark 6.3 39, Montrose 7.9 51 v North Ringwood 13.6 84, Boronia 21.15 141 v Norwood 7.7 49 Ladder: South Belgrave 28, Park Orchards 24, Beaconsfield 20, Boronia 16, Montrose 12, North Ringwood 12, Mooroolbark 8, Bayswater 0, Norwood 0 R9 Fixture - Saturday 14 June: North Ringwood v Bayswater, Park Orchards v Beaconsfield, Mooroolbark v Boronia, Montrose v South Belgrave
Berwick comes crashing back down to earth with a thud
By Jonty Ralphsmith
Berwick has been brought crashing back to earth following up its first win of the year with its heaviest defeat of the season.
South Croydon bested the Wickers 15.15(105) to 6.11(47), set up by a six goal to zero first quarter at Cheong Park.
While Berwick clawed its way back into the contest with a four-goal second quarter, they were again held goalless in the third quarter which put paid to a comeback of any serious proportion.
Caleb Van Oostveen continued his strong month of form, while youngsters Tahj De La Rue, Daniel Pinter and Noah Cannon were also named in the best, with Sam Woodward the only multiple goal kicker.
The loss is a dagger for a young side, which had an opportunity to build momentum after last week’s upset, with South Croydon entering the clash with just one win and an inferior percentage and the winless Mitcham on the horizon in two weeks.
But the result is a stark reminder of the peaks and troughs that come with building a young side.
Eastern Premier Division will now have a week off for King’s Birthday, with round eight action taking place on Saturday 14 June.
6.5 7.8 12.12 15.15(105) BERWICK
0.0 4.3 4.4 6.11(47) South Croydon Goals: Jayden Cass 2, Tyler Charlton 2, Thomas Sheridan 2, Ben Willis 2, James Fasan, Mason Helleren, Trent Marotta, Connor Smith, Flynn Smith, Thomas Taylor, James Wilsen. Best: Thomas Taylor, Liam Cox, Tom Schinck,
R7
86,
East
13.14 92,
16.15
Connor Mouat looks to evade a Bayswater tackler. (Rob Carew: 481278)
Travis Stewart gets airborne.
Taelor Reyment celebrates his goal.
Dylan Marshall, Thomas Sheridan, Mason Helleren.
Berwick Goals: Sam Woodward 2, Caydyn Lane, Jai Neal, Daniel Pinter, Ashton Williamson. Best: Caleb Van Oostveen, Noah Cannon, Daniel Pinter, Tom Brennan, Tahj De La Rue,
Will Arthurson.
Results: Rowville 8.10 58 v Doncaster 13.8
Vermont 9.7 61 v
Ringwood
Blackburn
115 v Mitcham 9.7 61. Ladder: East Ringwood 28, Blackburn 24, Rowville 16, Balwyn 16, Doncaster East 16,
South Croydon 8, Noble Park 8, Berwick 4, Mitcham 0.
R8 Fixture - Saturday 14 June: East Ringwood v Balwyn, Mitcham v Rowville, Doncaster East v Noble Park, South Croydon v Vermont, Berwick v Blackburn.
Sam Woodward and James McLean celebrate a goal for Berwick. (Rob Carew: 479942)
EASTERN FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE PREMIER REVIEW - ROUND 7
Emerging forward drafted
By Jonty Ralphsmith
Dingley star and former Casey VFL-listed high-leaping forward Caleb Lewis was drafted to Gold Coast with pick 14 at Wednesday night’s Mid-Season Rookie Draft.
The 2024 Southern Football Netball League leading goal kicker pulled on his new colours on Saturday in the VFL, and was the Suns’ only multiple goal kicker in a heavy loss to Coburg.
Despite being Casey VFL-listed for the past two seasons, Lewis has broken through for just four VFL games, with his improvement mostly born out of his buy-in to the Dingoes, crossing from VAFA club St Bede’s ahead of 2024.
“I can’t thank the club and the boys enough,” Lewis said of Dingley.
“They’ve been a massive part of facilitating my happiness as a footballer, and my ability to go out and play by myself and feel every emotion - when I have an off game, when I have an on game, they get around me no matter what and let me play to my strengths.
“Obviously spending most of my playing days at Dingley over the past few years, they’ve been a massive help.
“It’s definitely led by Zach Horsley as coach, he’s been massive (in) allowing me to play to my strengths, play footy and enjoy it.”
Lewis becomes the third player added to an AFL list this year whose rise started in the SFNL, following Port Adelaide signing Cheltenham’s Josh Lai in the Supplemental Selection Period (SSP) and former Highett player Tom McCarthy getting taken by West Coast with pick 1 of the Mid-Season Rookie Draft.
It continues an upwards trend for the competition in recent years, with a host of former AFL players and current VFL-listed players in action across the league.
On the radar of AFL clubs in 2021 as a raw defender, Lewis went up the other end in his first two seasons of senior footy, kicking 49 goals in 14 games of senior VAFA footy in 2023 after similar dominance at under-19s level the previous year.
He remained a forward when he crossed to Dingley, improving his ability to spearhead an attack.
“It definitely has taught me to take a tackle,” Lewis said of the SFNL.
“It’s a lot more physical than VAFA Premier B was.
“As the (player) that everyone wants to kick to and hit, you definitely cop a bit more love from opposition players but it taught me to be a bit more physical and fight back.”
While his playing opportunities were sporadic at the Dees, he paid tribute to their impact on his journey.
“They were awesome (in teaching me about) understanding roles, understanding patterns, those sort of things,” Lewis said.
“Working through vision with coaches and the training standards at Casey obviously being a VFL club, everyone’s really going all out (so that) helped me go that extra bit harder each session.”
Casey VFL head coach Taylor Whitford has witnessed Lewis’ growth across his time at the club and is confident he has plenty of traits transferrable to the top level.
“He’s a forward that can leap high and take the ball at its highest point and his physical attributes allow him to impact when the ball is on the ground as well,” Whitford said.
“He can cover the ground well and the way Gold Coast play will suit him.
“It’s a good opportunity for him and the hard work starts now for him.
“We’ve worked hard with his habits off field to build consistency – he’s become settled and has really matured with the way he tackles his day-today.”
Lewis flew up on Thursday when he was introduced to the players, coaches and staff members and is keen for what’s to come.
“It’s a massive opportunity to grow as a footballer,” Lewis said.
“Now I’m working with (coach) Damien Hardwick, I’m keen to pick his brain and some of the other key forwards and understand what is setting them apart from the rest and how they’re making progress and learn off them (to become) a more complete footballer myself.”
Roan Steele, a former Casey player who has come runner-up in Casey’s last two best and fairests before moving to Perth to play in the WAFL this year, was picked up by Collingwood with pick 8 on Wednesday night.
Their selections follow Jai Culley winning a list spot at Melbourne in the SSP earlier this year, and three players, including Lewis, representing AFL
Victoria’s Young Guns series last month.
“Roan will take to the AFL lifestyle like a duck to water because he’s an ultimate professional and he has been for a couple of years and he’s been working hard for an opportunity,” Whitford said.
“He’s a super runner.
“He blows the GPS up which lends itself to playing multiple roles – he could play as a winger/halfback or they could use him through the mid-forward layer.”
“We stopped training and got the phone out to watch Caleb’s pick go through and I told them about Roan as well and the smiles on their faces… we almost couldn’t concentrate for the rest of the night.
“It shows firsthand the success story – players play VFL footy to get drafted and to show them that it potentially isn’t too far away if you do the work helps us immensely.
“Both of those boys are relatively local as well so to show you can come to Casey and gain that opportunity is outstanding.”
Stunning last stanza leads Casey to victory over Swans
By Jonty Ralphsmith
An 11-goal-to-zero last quarter has lifted Casey to an enormous 24.11(155) to 9.7(61) victory over Sydney VFL on Saturday afternoon at Tramway Oval.
Two goals deep in stoppage time in the third quarter gave the visitors a 28-point buffer heading into the last change, before back-to-back Paddy Cross majors to start the fourth quarter kick-started an unbelievable chain of goals.
For the second consecutive week, developing AFL-listed key forward Matt Jefferson led the forward line with five goals, while Jack Billings and Mitch Hardie helped give Casey the midfield ascendancy.
The last quarter blowout followed a hard fought first half where both teams had periods of momentum, with Casey nine points ahead at the main break.
In his second VFL game, Tyson Sruk was solid with 14 disposals.
It followed a debut game that garnered praise from coach Taylor Whitford, gathering 21 disposals to go with a goal in last weekend’s big win
“It was a pretty awesome debut,” Casey coach Taylor Whitford said of Sruk ahead of the weekend’s match.
“He looked like he belonged at the level.
“I’ve known ‘Tys’ for a few years and he’s just been waiting for an opportunity as that 23rd player and he came into the side in form.
“He played at halfback in the first half and then got midfield exposure in the second half
which was great and just showed we have another one there who’s at the level.
“It’s one of the more impressive VFL debuts I’ve seen in terms of his ability to adapt to the level straight away and look calm and composed with the ball but also execute his role and know what he needed to do.
“To have him, (Mitch) Kirkwood-Scott and (Jesse) Craven as young local guys who were able to do that this year is really positive for our future.”
Sruk’s state league debut comes in his second year on Casey’s list, with his 2024 season punctuated by injury, but he earned his debut
with scintillating form for local club Rowville to start 2025.
Tyson is the brother of Mitch, who has played seven VFL games for Box Hill.
Nar Nar Goon’s Cross is another player who is building nicely, kicking three last quarter goals on the weekend to take his tally to 12 from nine games as a high-impact, versatile player.
“We played him on the wing (last) the weekend but the week before we played him as a deeper forward, a pressure type player,” Whitford said.
“Now, it’s about building consistency in his game.
“The pressure forward role lends itself to his strengths quite well, he was involved in a lot of scoring chains for us and his scoreboard impact was high.
“Playing on a wing, it’s around his ability to cover the ground and build some exposure around getting more possession, being involved in more chains.
“We’ll look to play him in that role now that he’s found his feet again.
“He’s another one who you never know what will happen if he’s able to work and grow in the next 12-24 months.”
Of Casey’s four wins this season, three have been by more than 70 points, giving the Demons a healthy percentage of 122 despite sitting two points outside the top 10.
Whitford’s men would likely jump into the top 10 with a win this Saturday night at Whitten Oval over the 6-3 Collingwood.
Former Casey forward Caleb Lewis was drafted by Gold Coast last Wednesday. (Stewart Chambers: 466727)
Casey was far too strong on Saturday. (Stewart Chambers: 478111)
Cavaliers push the tempo
By Justin Schwarze
Two things were rising on Saturday night; the Casey Cavaliers and the tempo at which they played at.
Casey battled fiercely to grind out a hardearned 80-90 result away at Keilor.
In a game that had multiple swings, the Cavaliers fought uphill all day to climb back into the contest, rallying in the second half to overrun the Thunder.
The hosts controlled the majority of the game, extending their advantage to as many as 12 midway through the third.
Casey got firing to close out the third frame, entering the fourth on a 9-0 run that trimmed the deficit to just one.
In the final term, a beautifully executed pickand-roll saw Nate Roberts barrel down the lane off the feed from Preston Bungei.
Roberts drew the help defender and laid it off to Hunter Marks, who finished through contact to put the Cavaliers in front for the first time in the game, a lead they never relinquished.
“We came out of halftime with a way better pace in what we wanted to do offensively,” Casey head coach Luke Kendall said.
“It’s a credit to the guys, they’re still learning to play with each other.
“Defensively, I felt we managed them (Keilor) a lot better and our intensity was the right way, our coverages were way better.
“We felt a lot more comfortable going into the fourth and we ended up getting over the top of them.
“It was a strong finish from the guys and I was pleasantly happy after the game.”
The Cavaliers were behind by double-digits for a large chunk of the matchup after starting slowly.
But there was one key switch that Kendall
decided to flip to turn the game on its head.
“It was about getting into halfcourt sets quicker, we wanted to open up the game and go a little bit earlier in the shot clock,” he said of his halftime message.
“We were able to pick up the pace and only had two turnovers in the second half, so that was a big difference in the turnaround in the game.
“It was a well-rounded scoring affair and everyone got touches and opportunities so now the way moving forward is to speed up that style of play so we can have more possessions and get out and run.
“As long as we take care of the ball, I’m happy to play at that sort of pace and use that sort of athleticism and size.”
Team skipper Bungei finished with 17 points, while Trendon Hankerson was cooking offensively, knocking down 6/12 shots from the floor to post 21 points.
Roberts brought his usual talented interior effort as he recorded a double-double of 13 points and 14 rebounds.
Casey’s win moved its record to 8-4 on the season, good enough for third in the NBL1 South table.
The squad still has a game in hand in round 9 as Sandringham visits Casey Stadium on Friday night.
For Kendall, the aim is to continue to push and not get complacent.
“We’re now being that team that was hunting teams, now we’re the hunted,” he said of being third placed.
“Everyone seems to be raising their game against us, which is good, it’s what we want.
“We often need to touch back onto where we were and remember those things that we have done and changed this season to continue this success.
Cannons fired up for Saints
By Blair Burns
It was a mixed weekend for Casey Cannons Hockey Club as the club secured three wins out of seven matches against some tough opposition.
The Men’s Vic League (MVL2) side was one of the highlights as the side won 9-2 against Bayside Powerhouse Saints.
Tristan Chaffey is the most damaging scorer in the league with 20 goals so far this season - 12 more than anyone else in the league - and he put on a clinic last weekend, netting an incredible six goals.
Bryan Young also contributed at the offensive end of the field with two goals, while Joshua Watson also added one.
The MVL2 side has been a shining light at the club this season and has supporters excited about what they could possibly achieve.
The team has been consistent and sits on top of the ladder and is yet to register a loss, with the minor blemish being a draw.
Casey’s win ratio is 92 per cent and it is ranked the best team in the competition in both attack and defence.
The league has a bye this weekend, before the Cannons resume their season against St Bede’s in Round 9.
Casey’s MVL2 Reserves were impressive and showcased its resilience to defeat Bayside Powerhouse Saints in a 3-1 contest.
The Cannons’ goals came from Adam Shilliday, Jordan Oellermann and Tadhg McCurran as the trio produced strong performances.
The third senior win from the weekend was
“I’m still happy with how things are progressing as we go longer and longer into the season, it’s been good.
“We still want to keep playing that team style
and continue to build and that’s part of the grind of this middle part of the season.
“It’s about building on our mindset and going in and staying hungry for the rest of the season.”
in the Women’s Pennant E South East, where the Cannons had a dominant victory over Knox 6-0.
There were plenty of strong contributors for Casey, but Matilda Chaffey led the way with two goals in a consistent performance.
Other goal scorers on the day were Jane Gipp, Emily Noney and captain Fiona Young who led from the front.
The win gives the side a bit of breathing room on the ladder as it has cemented fourth position in a strong first half of the season.
The Cannons will be looking forward to the clash against Camberwell when they return from the league bye, as they aim to upset the top side in the Women’s Pennant.
In the Women’s Vic League (WVL1) competition, Casey Cannons travelled to Greensborough and were no match for their opposition, falling short 3-0.
It was always going to be a tough ask against a team which sits second on the ladder, but the fourth-placed Cannons gave it their all.
A formidable Greensborough side made it two from two for the club on the day as they made light work of Casey’s WVL1 Reserves side, to win 6-1.
Jessica Rowland produced the sole highlight on the day for the Cannons hitting the back of the net with a classy play.
The Women’s Metro 1 side was no match for Mentone as the team went scoreless, falling to a 4-0 defeat.
In the men’s hockey, the Men’s Metro 2 South side went down against Mentone 2-0, while the Men’s Pennant D South East team had a bye.
12 locals in Vic Country squad
By Jonty Ralphsmith
Six Dandenong Stingrays and six Gippsland Power players were named in the Vic Country squad for its first game of the boys under-18s National Championships.
AFL Academy member and Dandenong co-captain Noah Hibbins-Hargreaves leads the way and will be looking to have a big carnival, having missed a month early in the season with a shoulder injury.
Hibbins-Hargreaves is one of just three Vic Country members who was also part of the squad last year, kicking 23 goals in 16 Stingrays games in his bottom-aged season.
Fellow ‘Rays co-captain Max Lee, an energetic halfback, was also named in the squad, alongside Melbourne Next Generation Academy prospect and Devon Meadows junior Toby Sinnema, midfielder Callum Smith, key forward Tairon Ah-Mu and bottom-ager Darcy Szerszyn.
Sinnema is a speedy winger, Smith looks set to feature prominently in a midfield with less depth than usual, Ah-Mu has put together strong footy for Haileybury College in recent weeks and Szerszyn has shown potential in defence.
Gippsland’s squad members was headlined
by
Adelaide father-son prospect Mitch Stevens, utility Jobe Scapin, bottom-ager Wil Malady and mid-forward Zach O’Keefe all remained in the squad after being part of the summer training hub, with faith shown in the latter despite an injury-interrupted beginning to 2025.
Tom Matthews is the only Power player to come from outside the summer hub into the squad for the first game, with the front and centre forward rewarded for strong form at Coates League level, before a four goal Vic Country trial game. It comes despite battling a knee injury all season, which has sidelined the Moe junior in recent weeks.
Bottom-aged Stingrays Gus Kennedy and Marcus Prasad and Power duo Marlon Neocleous and Cody Templeton were all named as part of the train-on squad.
Vic Country, led by Gippsland coach Rhett McLennan, kicks off its campaign against Western Australia at Mineral Resources Park on Saturday 7 June at 12pm. The carnival kicked off on the weekend, with South Australia defeating the Allies by seven points.
Trendon Hankerson was Casey’s main source of scoring, dropping 21 points in the win over Keilor. (In2Action Photography: 474989)
David Noney has been a consistent contributor for the Cannons this season. (Rob Carew: 469891)
likely top-five pick and AFL Academy member Willem Duursma.
Midfielder Callum Smith looks set to play a big part for Vic Country. (Gary Sissons: 481255).
