Hill too far for Libs
By Ethan Benedicto
The south-east electorate of Bruce is once more in the Labor Party’s hands, following MP Julian Hill’s win by a 29.38 per cent margin in two-party preferences against Liberal Party rival Zahid Safi. The five-week campaign period has left Hill both “exhausted and humbled”, yet still looking forward to his tenure for the next three years. Bruce, initially, was projected as a marginal seat, with the Liberals seemingly having a solid foundation to launch a strong campaign, considering the initial 5.3 per cent margin before the election.
However, it instead saw an almost 10 per cent swing against the LNP, with Hill tacking on 46.10 per cent of primary votes, to Safi’s 23.25 per cent.
A Liberal Bruce forecast stemmed from the recent redistribution of boundaries that saw Liberal-leaning areas of Berwick and Harkaway, formerly in the catchment of long-time LaTrobe MP Jason Wood, move to Bruce. Despite this, however, Hill won in all early polling booths in Berwick and the electorate, losing only in Narre Warren North and Harkaway to Safi.
Even in LaTrobe, while it remains a Liberal stronghold, Berwick booths saw swings against Wood by beyond 10 per cent in the 2PP.
Asked on election night on the state of Bruce, Mr Wood defended Safi, saying that “everyone puts their hands up to run as candidates with the best intentions”.
For the election stories, turn to pages 2, 3 and 4.
Jones is set to
Student and University World Championships. (Stewart Chambers: 475257)
Battin rejects poll concerns
By Corey Everitt
With his federal party receiving one of the worst results in its history, state opposition leader Brad Battin has fended off implications to his future campaign, saying voters “know the difference“ between state and federal.
After Saturday’s election, the Federal Coalition may only hold enough seats to count on one hand in Victoria, after receiving a devastating result.
The Coalition sought to bank on opposition toward Jacinta Allan to feed support for Peter Dutton, by linking the Premier to Prime Minister Albanese.
After the result that saw many Melbourne seats wiped from the Coalition, Allan was quick to assert the link with the Prime Minister, but now as vindication for leadership in Victoria.
“It demonstrates very clearly that federal and state Labor share the same values,” Allan told reporters on Sunday.
On ABC Melbourne on Monday, Liberal MP for La Trobe Jason Wood said the Allan/Albanese connection did not work.
“Our policy was more double trouble with Albo and Allan, and it just didn’t cut through at all,” he said.
Speaking to reporters on Monday, Battin assured the difference between state and federal, and pushed back against significant changes to his direction.
“I went through a process of watching the election from afar, I stayed in contact with the federal counterparts as we went through, there are elements of that we can learn, that we can always learn from,“ he said.
“We already knew the issues happening here in Victoria, we know that crime and cost-of-living are two of the biggest things that are impacting people in our state.
“We said that before the election, we say it after and we will continue down that path.”
Closer to home, the results were not ideal, not only for the Victorian Liberals but for Battin himself.
Split between the seats of Bruce and La Trobe, Berwick voting booths returned large swings against both new candidate Zahid Safi and longtime MP Jason Wood.
Voting in Battin’s own backyard returned swings of 10 to as high as 17 percent against the Liberal Party in some booths.
“People in my electorate, as much as they do across the state, totally know the difference between state and federal issues,” Battin said.
“I assure you, when I was doing the pub test or the club test, speaking to many different people
in my community like I always do, they are looking forward to the next state election.”
Much like Allan, Battin kept the federal election campaign at arm’s length and even strayed away from publicly backing the introduction of nuclear power, a key policy in Dutton’s campaign.
Dutton also announced his commitment to pull over $4 billion of federal funding from the Suburban Rail Loop (SRL) to fund other projects if he were elected.
Around the same time, Battin called for the state government to cancel the SRL after a damaging report questioned its viability.
Yet, the opposition to the SRL did not return results for the federal Coalition. In the eastern suburbs, where SRL East is currently under construction, the Liberal Party lost seats.
“Four elections now – it has been backed time
Hundreds of signs removed
By Ethan Benedicto
The City of Casey has confirmed that over 300 corflutes have been removed since the federal election announcement, and that no permits for electoral signage have been issued throughout the entire period.
This confirmation comes as The Age reported on the figure, and as Brian Oates, president of the Casey Resident Ratepayers Association, called their overabundance a “war of corflutes”.
Oates sent a letter to Star News on behalf of the organisation, where he highlighted the large amount of corflutes, from local homes’ fences, to bollards, lightposts, walls, traffic direction posts and more.
However, the biggest concern he raised was, “have the candidates applied for permits?”
Casey’s CEO, Glenn Patterson, told The Age of the number of signs they had removed, and that photos were taken and infringements to follow where they deemed appropriate.
According to Casey’s manager of connected communities, Callum Pattie, he confirmed that the over 300 figure contained “illegally placed signs”, and that council officers were aware of them. “Candidates and parties may receive fines of $296 per sign that breaks the law,” Pattie said. “Trucks with political material have also been given notices, and if they don’t comply, the vehicles will be towed away.”
CRRA’s Oates expressed concern with the signs’ proper authorisation, adding that it would be a “timely event and should be at the top of the list when the review of the Local Laws
takes place”.
According to Clause 36(2) of the Casey Community Local Law 2023, a person must not, except if they have a permit, place any electoral signage on any road or council land.
This rule also applies to vehicles - such as the mentioned trucks - that are wrapped in election material and also parked in prominent places to advertise a candidate or political party. Trucks and or vehicles that are driving around are not breaking the law, but if they are instead parked and used as a sign, it is only then that it becomes an offence and is grounds for council officers to take action.
“Officers continue to patrol and remove these signs where it is safe to do so,” Pattie said.
“They have also visited polling stations within the municipality to remove signs, talked to electoral candidates, and worked with the onsite AEC managers.
“Signs placed on private land with the owner’s permission are not breaking the law.”
Corflutes and signs have been widespread in the electorate, with more than a handful having been defaced in the process.
Liberal candidate Zahid Safi recently posted on his Facebook page expressing his disappointment with their vandalism, while incumbent Labor MP Julian Hill’s signs were also subject to the same treatment.
On this note, and with a specific focus on the days coming post-election, Oates posed the question of how long the signage would linger throughout the city, and if limitations on their physical size is to be considered.
and time again by the Victorian community,” Premier Allan said after the federal election.
Battin rejected this assertion and the Premier’s attempts at vindication.
“If she seriously thinks it’s because of her that they won the election, she would have been out campaigning with them,” he said.
“To say it was a vote for the SRL, when the federal government wouldn’t commit to any further funding, I think is kidding themselves.”
Head of Politics at Monash University, Dr Zareh Ghazarian said both parties are dealing with voters moving away this election and the state parties will have to assess how they can recapture them in 2026.
“There is still volatility in the electorate and people are open to supporting non-major party candidates,” he said.
“I think it’s demonstrated that people need to do the hard yards when it comes to devising and talking about their policies.
“The Coalition in Victoria really has to start talking about what sort of policies, what sort of approaches they will take if they were to win government, if they were to attract voters who may be thinking of not voting for Labor.”
One local Labor source said the federal election result should hopefully see a new direction from Battin.
“I woke up this morning, thinking, oh god, we are going to have a year of that negative approach that Liberals tend to take on absolutely everything, we are going to have that until the next state election,” they said.
“I would like to see a different approach from the Liberal Party.”
A critical role in democracy
By Paul Thomas, Star News Group managing director
OPINION
In the final days of the federal election campaign, Peter Dutton’s decision to lash out at the media was not just desperate, it was dangerous. Labelling the ABC and Guardian Australia as “hate media” and accusing journalists of being “activists” rather than reporters echoed the tired, toxic playbook of Donald Trump: when you’re behind, don’t reflect, just shout “fake news”.
Australians saw through that. No amount of spin, deflection or blame shifting could hide the truth. Voters rejected the Coalition’s message. Shooting the messenger doesn’t change the message.
Media scrutiny is not the enemy of democracy; it’s the oxygen that keeps it alive. A free press questions power, challenges spin and asks uncomfortable questions. That’s not bias, that’s journalism.
Sure, when journalists get something wrong, call it out. Point to it. Demand a correction. Any credible newsroom will make one. But blanket accusations, unsubstantiated claims and outright falsehoods aimed at delegitimising the media are not just cheap politics, they actively erode trust in institutions that underpin democracy.
We see this tactic far too often, not just at a federal level but in local councils, including one our newsroom currently covers. Rather than engaging with the facts or addressing legitimate public concerns, some in power choose the easy path: Attack the media. But in doing so, they expose themselves, not the journalists.
That’s why strong local media matters now
more than ever. Local newspapers and newsrooms remain one of the last truly independent and accountable sources of community information. They report on councils, expose local corruption, celebrate community success and give a voice to residents. Yet their very survival is under threat.
Digital platforms and social media have stripped local media of its commercial foundations, and worse, they have helped legitimise the kind of rhetoric Dutton and Trump rely on. By feeding audiences personalised echo chambers and monetising outrage, they have weakened the public’s trust in credible journalism, while doing little to support its production. Those who benefit from journalism must also help sustain it, and that includes the massive digital tech companies who have profited enormously from republishing, aggregating and monetising news content without paying fair value.
Now, artificial intelligence platforms are doing the same, scraping content, harvesting the work of journalists and training their models on material they never paid for. It’s the same pattern we’ve seen for years with social media - extract the value, deny responsibility, and undermine the industry you depend on. This cannot continue. Everyone who profits from journalism must help fund it. That includes readers, advertisers, governments - and yes, the tech giants and AI developers whose empires have been built in part on the work of others. On Saturday, Australians made it clear they won’t be fooled by leaders who blame everyone but themselves. Let’s hope they also recognise the essential role of a strong, independent media and are willing to fight for its future.
Opposition leader Brad Battin. (AAP Image/Joel Carrett)
Locals wary of VCAT call on waste station
By Violet Li
Residents are alarmed the controversial Hampton Park Waste Transfer Station is in the hands of the state’s planning tribunal.
They cite VCAT’s notorious past decision to approve housing near a former landfill site.
After homes were built, residents of Brookland Greens Estate in Cranbourne were forced to evacuate due to a gas leak from the former landfill.
Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) Victoria rejected the proposed Hampton Park site’s development licence on 9 April; however, it is revealed that the decision was not made within the prescribed four-month timeframe.
The project’s proponent Veolia has the legal right to lodge an appeal within four weeks after the prescribed deadline with VCAT to seek a decision if no timely decision is made within the statutory timeframe.
The statutory deadline expired on 23 January this year. The following day, the EPA requested additional information from Veolia, asking the company to review submissions by the community and provide a response.
Veolia lodged the appeal in mid-February, and VCAT’s role, from that point, is to act as an independent point of review and will consider submissions made and evidence presented by the parties before making a decision that is legally binding.
As part of the proceedings, VCAT ordered the EPA to make a decision on the development licence application by April 10.
Despite the EPA’s decision against the application, it does not alter the VCAT process. VCAT will make the final determination later this year with hearing dates set for August 11, 12, 14 and 15.
An EPA spokesperson said they would not make any comment as the case is now in front of the state tribunal.
Back in February, after Veolia appealed, an EPA spokesperson told Star News that they required time for both the procurement of information, consultation with the community and the opportunity to properly consider all the factors that could impact on the local community and the environment, given the nature of the Veolia application.
A Veolia spokesperson said the company had always worked closely and transparently with the Casey community, and this would not change.
“We will continue to keep residents informed of the application process as it unfolds,” they said.
“The proposed Hampton Park Transfer Station is central to South East Melbourne’s future waste infrastructure strategy and Victoria’s transition away from landfill towards resource recovery.
“It represents a vital piece of infrastructure for Victoria to achieve the diversion from landfill targets set by successive governments.”
A spokesperson of Lynbrook Residents Association (LRA), which represents the residents of five suburbs surrounding the proposed waste
transfer station, acknowledged the EPA’s request for further information was made one day beyond the statutory deadline, but they said this minor procedural delay should not overshadow the seriousness of the EPA’s final findings that led to the development licence rejection.
“The EPA’s expert assessment concluded that the proposed waste transfer station presents an unacceptable risk to human health and the environment,” they said.
“It is the content and consequence of that decision—not the technicality of timing—that must take precedence.”
However, the spokesperson said the community did have deep concerns about the decision-making power now resting with VCAT.
“This shift risks undermining the EPA’s expert-led refusal and places an undue burden on the community to contest a proposal already deemed unsafe,” they said.
The spokesperson spoke of the 2008 gas leak incident at Brookland Greens Estate in Cranbourne, where VCAT overturned the City of Casey’s decision and approved housing developments within 200 metres of the landfill, despite warnings from the EPA about the risks of building homes near the landfill.
In September 2008, dangerous levels of methane gas were detected in the Estate, prompting the Country Fire Authority (CFA) to advise residents to evacuate due to the risk of explosion. Approximately 200 residents left their homes.
“VCAT must apply the precautionary principle in its deliberations. The EPA’s own guidelines recommend a 500-metre buffer between waste facilities and sensitive land uses such as homes and schools,” the LRA spokesperson said.
“The proposed site sits well within this distance, heightening community concern and reinforcing the need for the Tribunal to prioritise public safety.”
LRA is also urging the Casey Council to adopt “precautionary and strategic leadership” through engaging directly with Veolia and the State Government to identify a more suitable location for the waste transfer station.
In a letter to all councillors, the community organisation requested that the Council write to the EPA and Minister for Environment to urge
that, should VCAT overturn the EPA’s rejection, both agencies make every endeavour to overturn VCAT’s ruling and take a strong public stance in the interest of protecting community health and safety.
It also requested that the Council explore options to revoke or cancel the planning permit, given that the EPA had formally determined that the proposal posed an unacceptable risk to human health and the environment.
Casey Council approved a planning permit for the proposed waste transfer station before last year’s council elections. But this year, the newly elected councillor group have moved against the proposed facility. Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen has written letters to Ministers and the EPA, expressing community concerns.
Casey Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen acknowledged the concerns from the community and LRA around Veolia’s appeal to VCAT.
“Council has sought legal advice to provide clear direction on the options available, including pursuing a Section 87 application under the Planning and Environment Act 1987. Councillors’ consideration of that advice will inform our next steps,” he said.
“We respect the decision made by the EPA to refuse a development licence, recognising the significant and thorough work that goes into their assessments. The health and safety of our residents are paramount, and we appreciate the EPA’s commitment to these principles.
“The legacy of the Brookland Greens Estate remains a sobering reminder of the critical role that effective buffer zones play in protecting people and place. I am committed to updating the community on our position as soon as I can.”
Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas said he would encourage Veolia to continue to engage with the EPA to identify another location for its proposed waste transfer station.
“As I’ve previously said, the EPA makes its decisions based on the requirements of our environmental protection laws and using the best available science. In this instance, the decision was also made following consideration of more than 700 community submissions on the proposal,” he said.
“It is my understanding that the EPA will represent its decision to refuse the application at VCAT.”
Opposition MP for South-Eastern Metropolitan Region Ann-Marie Hermans Ann-Marie Hermans said local residents were rightly concerned rightly concerned that VCAT would overturn the EPA’s decision.
“The health risks posed by the proposed waste transfer facility, given its extremely close proximity to homes and underground waterways, are serious and cannot be ignored,” she said.
Ms Hermans tabled two petitions in parliament in March this year with nearly 4,500 signatures to relocate the Waste Transfer Station away from Hampton Park.
The petitions are expected to be debated later this month in parliament.
Veolia
fined $20,000 over dairy rancidity
Two Veolia waste-disposal companies have been fined nearly $20,000 over a smelly mess that attracted a swarm of insects to a factory at Dandenong South.
Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) fined NSW-registered companies Veolia Environmental Services (Australia) Pty Ltd and Veolia Recycling & Recovery Pty Ltd each $9,980 for the dairywaste stench found at a warehouse in Stephen Road in January.
EPA officers found more than 1000 litres in pallets, stored without an EPA permit or licence.
“At the time, the weather was hot, the waste had been stored in the warehouse since October 2024 without any refrigeration,” the EPA stated.
“The odour was strong enough to linger in the officers’ uniforms after they left the inspection.”
EPA stated they also discovered spilled waste on the driveway that started to congeal in the sun.
The dairy waste was classified as a priority waste under the Environment Protection Act 2017, which has requirements for correct storage, handling, transport and disposal, including reasonable steps to prevent escape or contamination.
Veolia Environmental Services (Australia) Pty Ltd was fined for unlawfully depositing more than 1,000 litres of waste at a place that was not licensed to accept it. Veolia Recycling & Recovery Pty Ltd, was fined for failing to notify EPA of the breach immediately.
The mess was quickly cleaned up, once EPA made contact, according to the EPA.
The operator has a right to have the fines reviewed or heard by a court.
The controversial Hampton Park Waste Transfer Station proposal by Veolia is now before the state’s planning tribunal. (FILE)
Congealed dairy waste found on a driveway at Stephen Road, Dandenong South. (EPA Victoria)
New-look local favourite
Patties Food Group has always prioritised people and its community first, from local school fundraisers to sporting club sponsorships to great value, nutritious meals for Australian families.
This month, Patties will unveil its newly renovated store for the Pakenham community, marking the organisation’s latest step in continuing its legacy of supporting Pakenham. The renovated store will give locals easier access to their favourite frozen products at an unbeatable value.
More than six decades after Peter and Annie Rijs opened the first Patties shop in Lakes Entrance, today the Pakenham food manufacturer continues the tradition by creating the food people love while feeding and supporting the local community. Today, Patties Food Group aims to be more than just a food company; they are a major employer in Pakenham and proud supporters of local initiatives. The company has invested in the community’s wellbeing for many years, fundraising, partnering with charities and donating food.
Notable recent contributions from Patties include donating the equivalent of over 140,000 meals to Foodbank Australia in the past year, raising nearly $330,000 through an Executive Team Endurance Challenge and company contributions for My Room Children’s Cancer Charity, and supporting the Hope Restart Centre through internal initiatives.
The newly renovated shop, located at 28–46 Bald Hill Road, has been designed with the local community in mind. Customers can expect a larger floor plan, an expanded product range, and dedicated parking with direct access from Bald Hill Road, making the shop even more accessible to the community.
Patties Food Group looks forward to welcoming the community to the newly renovated shop and thanks the Pakenham community for its continued support over the years. For more information about Patties Food Group products and community initiatives, visit pattiesfoodgroup.com/about-us Outlet
GRAND OPENING PATTIES FACTORY OUTLET SHOP
SATURDAY, 10TH MAY
We have some exciting things planned for you at our Grand Opening event!
www.facebook.com/ pattiesfoodsdirect
FREE - Face Painting, Popcorn & Lolly Bags for Kids with any purchase *while stock
WIN - Shop vouchers to be won every hour
FREE - Kids colouring competition with prizes.
Lots of stock available on the day, carton purchases available. Hot food and cold drinks available to purchase
My Room Children’s Cancer Charity donations available on the day.
Lots of fun, come down and check out our fabulous new shop. Saturday 10th May • Opening Hours 8am – 4pm
Entrance to the shop via Racecourse Road only. See our Facebook page for additional information.
Team Lead Kimberley Doig and Logistics Manager Vlad Klaric look forward to welcoming the community to the newly renovated shop.
Performing without limits
By Violet Li
Bridie Clark thought it was time to slow down when she came back to her hometown in 2020, after seven years on Broadway in the frenetic New York City.
But slowing down had never been her style; she knew that deep down.
Despite lockdown after lockdown back home, she started a new Cranbourne-East-based program called Australian Dancers Project (ADP) to help aspiring performers learn, grow, and perform.
“I have choreography in my brain, and I don’t want to waste it. Let’s do something,” she said, recounting how the program was originated.
The following year, she joined a play by Cranbourne’s non-profit BATS Theatre Company and has stayed as in-house choreographer ever since. This year, she was elected as the president.
Last month, she won this year’s Lindsay King Art Award for her long-standing commitment to the performing arts, her volunteer work for the BATS, and for founding the inclusive, non-profit ADP that makes theatre accessible and affordable for everyone.
ADP started in 2020 as a free performing arts opportunity for dancers and young performers during lockdowns, where they completed two film projects that were featured on YouTube.
And it grew from there. ADP has grown to become an actual performing arts school from the projects through.
The major program, ADP Theatre Stars Performing Arts (T.S.P.A.), priced affordably, aims to provide young performers with the fundamentals they will need for a career in the musical theatre industry.
T.S.P.A., which has been going on for three years, runs classes several days a week, and all students end up in shows, Bridie shared.
She cited the cast of The Hunchback of Notre Dame, one of the biggest shows in the BATS history from last year where nine cast members were from ADP.
“They would never have been considered if they had not got training and stepped out of their comfort zone, because performing arts can be very expensive. I try and keep ADP affordable,” she said.
“I believe performing arts should be accessible for everyone. It should not just be a privilege.
“It should be the same as sports. It should be
Casey residents are set to score free tickets for Melbourne Football Club’s upcoming AFL showdown with Hawthorn.
The match is part of a special Casey Round marking 15 years into a 30-year partnership between City of Casey and the Dees.
To celebrate, Casey residents are offered up to four free tickets each to support Melbourne at the MCG clash on Saturday 10 May.
Casey mayor Stefan Koomen said the City of Casey Round was a “great moment to pause, reflect and celebrate” on the enduring partnership with Melbourne.
taught in schools. Doesn’t matter if you can only afford a $5 a week or $1000 a week.”
Looking back, Bridie realised another reason she started ADP was to give as much information as possible to the budding performers and just not gatekeep it.
“I have all those connections, and what’s the point of holding on to all those secret connections? What’s the point in gatekeeping and being like, oh, no, you need an agent to get what I know,” she said.
“I don’t gatekeep. I don’t believe in being the secret squirrel, which unfortunately, the community theatre in Australia is very secret. It’s either
you have to have an agent or you know who you know to get auditions.
“Seven years overseas opened my eyes. You didn’t have to have an agent. You could go audition for a Broadway show. It depended on your skill and if you were the look they wanted.
“I think that should be the same here.”
Bridie also wants to see a more inclusive representation on the stage, reflecting her belief that performing arts should be available to everyone. She spoke of the BATS’ big show Hunchback again, which had almost 10 neurodivergent cast.
“I want to see someone on stage who I know for a fact is on the spectrum or has Down Syn-
drome or is represented in a proper wheelchair in a show,” she said.
“I don’t want to see able-bodied performers doing step kick kick, because not everyone can do step kick kick, but I want little kids to sit in the audience and go, I see myself on stage.
“Like how the big movies at the moment are being very conscious of representation in films, why can’t performing arts in Australia be like that?”
By the looks of it, Bridie, who thought of slowing down once, is just getting started.
“We (ADP) are quite small, but we are growing steadily,” she said.
In addition to the free tickets, everyone registered will receive a free 2025 three-game membership to access a further three Melbourne Football Club MCG home games of their choice.
You must be a Casey resident to redeem this offer. The offer is redeemable until 5pm 8 May.
To redeem tickets, go to melbourne2.snapforms.com.au/form/city-of-casey-round-3game-membership
“The game is scheduled to be a blockbuster, and I can’t wait to join Casey residents as they enjoy a day at the footy with their loved ones.”
Christian Petracca with Melbourne Demons AFL fans at the MCG. (Supplied)
Bridie Clark, the president of Cranbourne’s non-profit BATS Theatre Company and the director of Australian Dancers Project (ADP), won this year’s Lindsay King Art Award. (Stewart Chambers: 474010)
Mother’s Day is a special occasion celebrated worldwide to honour mothers and mother figures for their unwavering love, support, and sacrifices.
This day, typically observed on the second Sunday in May in many countries, provides an opportunity for children and families to express their gratitude and appreciation through various gestures.
From heartfelt cards to lavish gifts, the essence of Mother’s Day lies in acknowledging the pivotal role mothers play in shaping our lives.
The origins of Mother’s Day can be traced back to ancient civilizations.
The ancient Greeks held festivals honoring Rhea, the mother of the gods, while the Romans celebrated Mater Matuta, the goddess of motherhood.
However, the modern celebration of Mother’s Day as we know it took shape in the early 20th century, thanks to the efforts of Anna Jarvis.
After her mother’s death in 1905, Jarvis campaigned tirelessly to establish a national day to honour mothers, and her efforts culminated in the first official Mother’s Day celebration in 1908.
As Mother’s Day approaches, people often reflect on the unique qualities that make their mothers special.
Beyond the everyday acts of nurturing and care, mothers often embody resilience, strength, and compassion.
They are the ones who provide guidance, instill values, and encourage their children to pursue their dreams.
The bond between a mother and her child is one of the strongest relationships, often characterised by unconditional love and support.
Celebrating Mother’s Day can take
many forms.
Some individuals choose to spend quality time with their mothers, indulging in activities they both enjoy.
Others may opt for more traditional gifts, such as flowers, jewellery, or personalised items that hold sentimental value.
Cooking a special meal or baking a favorite dessert can also be a heartfelt way to show appreciation.
Many families take this opportunity to share fond memories and express their feelings, strengthening their emotional connections.
In recent years, the meaning of Mother’s Day has expanded to honour all types of mother figures, including stepmothers, grandmothers, and even friends who play maternal roles.
This inclusivity reflects the diverse family structures and relationships present in modern society.
As such, Mother’s Day serves not only as a celebration of biological mothers but also as a day to recognise the love and care provided by all maternal figures.
Mother’s Day is more than just a commercial holiday; it is a heartfelt celebration of the love, sacrifice, and commitment that mothers and mother figures provide every day.
It serves as a reminder to cherish these relationships and to express gratitude for the countless ways mothers enrich our lives.
Whether through simple gestures or grand celebrations, honouring their efforts to care and protect us is a true reason to recognise Mother’s Day.
Show love for your Mum on Mother’s Day.
Remembrance journeys
The memory of Anzac Day is still fresh in our minds for another year – a moving service of remembrance and history at a local cenotaph across Australia.
But imagine being overseas for Anzac Day at places where the battles actually took place.
Each year thousands of Australians follow in the footsteps of the Anzacs at Gallipoli and on the Western Front, and while many choose to coincide their battlefield travel with Anzac Day commemorations, remembrance travel takes place throughout the year with specialist operator Mat McLachlan Battlefield Tours offering weekly departures of its four-day Western Front Explorer from April to November, and private Gallipoli tours departing any day of choice year-round.
“The Gallipoli landings on 25 April 1915 marked the beginning of Australian service and sacrifice during the First World War,” War historian and battlefield tour operator, Mat McLachlan said.
“The Anzacs served at Gallipoli for eight long months, before the failed campaign was finally called off and the Gallipoli Evacuation took place in December 1915. Anzac troops then went on to serve on the Western Front for three long years in bloody and costly battles that became synonymous with the futility and horror of war.”
“Gallipoli was where the Anzac legend began, while the Western Front was where modern warfare erupted, the Anzac legend was cemented, and where remembrance began. Today, Gallipoli and the Western Front are incredibly meaningful and memorable places to visit, with many remnants from this history easy to be seen.”
It feels like something very Australian to do – to visit these places we have heard of at Services and read about in history books.
But for some battlefield pilgrims the trip is very personal - including the group Mat has just had with him overseas.
ACT pilgrim Wendy Farnham visited the Western Front for the third time this year following her Anzac grandfather, James Bruce Lithgow, who served in the 36th Battalion on the Western Front from late 1916 and was one of the ‘lucky’ ones who made it home. During her Western Front tour, Wendy had the honour of reading the Ode of Remembrance at the Menin Gate Last Post Ceremony.
Wendy herself is veteran who served for more than 46 years, including tours in Iraq and East Timor. Anzac Day 2025 was Wendy’s third visit to the Western Front with Mat McLachlan but her first for Anzac Day. Wendy will then join Mat for his Gallipoli Signature Tour in May this year to explore the Gallipoli Peninsula. Gary and Jan Lloyd from Glandore, Adelaide followed in the footsteps of five Anzac relatives
who all served at Gallipoli. Three will forever lie at Gallipoli. Two survived to fight another day on the Western Front and made it through the war, including Gary’s grandfather, and their Gallipoli Anzac relative who went on to make aviation history.
Gary’s grandfather, Frederick Gerald Lloyd, landed with the two brothers on 25 April, took part on the May offensive (in which Rupert was shot and killed) coming out of it with a shrapnel wound in the leg, took part in the Battle of Lone Pine (in which William was killed in action), and fought on until the Gallipoli Evacu-
ation in December 1915. Frederick went on to serve on the Western Front – arriving on the 1st of April 1916 in France.
“My grandfather served at Gallipoli from the first day of the landings on 25th April 1915 right through the campaign to the evacuation, which for him was 18 December 1915,” he said before he left for his tour.
“I have his diary that describes the places he was at, the conditions he experienced, and the death of mates around him. He also took photos that I have, so I really want to walk in his footsteps up Artillery Road to Lone Pine
and visit Shrapnel Gully Cemetery where he took photos of the graves of some fallen mates.
“Whilst my grandfather went on to fight on the Western Front and survive the war, we have other close relatives who did not leave Gallipoli, so we want to visit their memorials to pay our respects and thank them ‘in person’ for their sacrifices.”
Mat McLachlan Battlefield Tours offers commemorative Anzac Day tours and tours throughout the year to Australia’s significant WWI and WW2 battlefields, as well as Vietnam. Visit battlefields.com.au.
Gary and Jan Lloyd photo taken at the RAAF Edinburgh base in Adelaide.
Sleeping under the stars at Gallipoli.
Anzac Day at Villers-Brettoneux, Western Front.
Wendy Farnham recites the Ode of Remembrance at the Menin Gate in Ypres on her Mat McLachlan Anzac Day on the Western Front battlefield tour.
Menin Gate in Ypres, Flanders, Belgium - battlefield pilgrims from Australia visit to pay respects ahead of Anzac Day. (Mat McLachlan)
Anzac Day at Polygon Wood.
Curated luxury escapes
For those seeking alluring booking incentives to make the final decision on where and when to travel, here are twelve offers from Viking.
The offers apply to select Asia ocean voyages sailing between September and November 2025, so those who are yet to book haven’t missed the boat for competitively priced travel this year.
From now until 30 June, 2025, Viking is offering travellers the opportunity to save up to AUD $15,800 per couple on twelve of its popular itineraries across China, Southeast Asia and the Far East.
This pricing comes at a time when Asia destinations are in high demand with travelers. The Asia itineraries on offer include popular destinations for Australian and New Zealand travelers, such as Japan, Hong Kong, China, Indonesia and Thailand.
The autumn sailing dates are perfect for travelers wanting to avoid crowds, heat, and humidity while exploring the magnificent temples, ancient cultural traditions and authentic regional cuisine that Asia offers.
Discover More of Asia For Less Ocean Voyage Highlights:
Twenty-two-day Gems of China and Japan from Beijing to Tokyo, includes Tibet, is priced from $13,295 per person in a Veranda Stateroom, with savings of up to $15,800 per couple based on 7 November 2025 departure.
Twenty-two-day Pearls of Japan and China from Tokyo to Beijing, includes Tibet, is priced from $14,295 per person in a Veranda Stateroom, with savings of up to $13,800 per couple based on 31 October 2025 departure.
Fifteen-day Coastal Jewels of China from Beijing to Hong Kong or vice versa is priced from $5,795 per person in a Veranda Stateroom, with savings of up to $12,800 per couple. Departures on 5 and 19 September and 3 October 2025.
Twenty-Two-day Best of China from Hong Kong to Beijing, includes Tibet, is priced from $12,795 per person in a Veranda Stateroom, with savings of up to $12,800 per couple based on 5 September and 3 October 2025 departures.
Twenty-Two -day Wonders of China, a round trip from Beijing, includes Tibet, is priced from $12,795 per person in a Veranda Stateroom, with savings of up to $12,800 per couple based on 19 September 2025 departure.
Fifteen-day Jewels of Japan & China from Tokyo to Beijing or vice versa is priced from $6,295 per person in a Veranda Stateroom, with savings of up to $12,200 per couple based on 31 October and 14 November 2025 departures.
Seventenn-day Komodo & the Australian Coast from Bali to Sydney is priced from $7,795 per person in a Veranda Stateroom, with savings of up to $10,800 per couple based on 14 and 16 November 2025 departures.
Fifteen-day Southeast Asia & Hong Kong from Hong Kong to Bangkok is priced from $7,795 per person in a Veranda Stateroom, with savings of up to $10,800 per couple based on 19 October 2025 departure.
Twenty-day Classic China Discovery from
Hong Kong to Beijing or vice versa is priced from $10,795 per person in a Veranda Stateroom, with savings of up to $10,800 per couple based on 5 and 14 September and 3 October 2025 departures.
Fifteen-day Far Eastern Horizons from Hong Kong to Tokyo is priced from $10,795 per person in a Veranda Stateroom, with savings of up to $8,800 per couple based on 4 October 2025 departure.
Twenty-Six-day North Pacific Crossing from
Vancouver to Tokyo is priced from $6,795 per person in a Veranda Stateroom, with savings of up to $8,800 per couple based on 9 September 2025 departure.
Thirteen-day Bangkok, Bali & Beyond from Bangkok to Bali is priced from $6,795 per person in a Veranda Stateroom, with savings of up to $6,200 per couple based on 2 November 2025 departure.
For more information, please visit www.viking.com or phone 138 747.
Hailed as one of the most beautiful places to see cherry blossoms in Tokyo, Chidorigafuchi.
The Wong Tai Sin-Temple Bridge in Hong-Kong.
The extraordinary Terracotta Army located in Xi’an was discovered by local villagers in March 1974.
The understated luxury of the Explorers Lounge on board Viking.
LEE MCCARTHY
EUROPEAN SOJOURN
Amsterdam to Bucharest or vice versa
23 DAYS | 8 COUNTRIES | 19 GUIDED TOURS
SET SAIL: APR-OCT 2026; MAY-OCT 2027
From $13,495pp in Standard Stateroom
From $18,495pp in Veranda Stateroom
GRAND EUROPEAN TOUR
Amsterdam to Budapest or vice versa
15 DAYS | 4 COUNTRIES | 12 GUIDED TOURS
SET SAIL: MAY-NOV 2025; MAR-NOV 2026; APR-NOV 2027
From $6,895pp in Standard Stateroom
From $11,695pp in Veranda Stateroom
Discover More FOR LESS
Uncover the history, culture and traditions of the world’s most captivating destinations – for less.
Our voyages are meticulously crafted to offer you immersive experiences, exceptional service and everything you need included.
Save up to 30% on selected river and ocean voyages booked by 30 June 2025*.
RHINE GETAWAY
Amsterdam to Basel or vice versa
8 DAYS | 4 COUNTRIES | 6 GUIDED TOURS
SET SAIL: JUN-NOV 2025; MAR-NOV 2026; 2027
From $2,995pp in Standard Stateroom
From $4,195pp in Veranda Stateroom
ROTHENBURG,
Luxury Cunard Voyage from Sydney to London
Sail on board the stunning Queen Anne during a half-world voyage to Southampton, paired with a London hotel stay.
In Sydney Harbour, greet the newest member of Cunard’s illustrious fleet, Queen Anne, as she sets sail on the 45-night voyage to Southampton. Cruising on board this iconic ship promises an exquisite experience filled with gala evenings, classic a ernoon tea services, and culinary delights from a choice of world-class restaurants.
Explore the beaches of Fiji before crossing the International Date Line to Hawaii’s Honolulu. Next, you’ll enjoy a night in port In Los Angeles ahead of the passage through the Panama Canal, modern marvel of engineering. Tropical bliss awaits in Curacao, Aruba and Miami before you cross the Atlantic Ocean to Southampton. Here, you’ll disembark and transfer to London, where your holiday culminates with a two-night stay in the heart of the city.
Sydney, Port Vila, Suva, Honolulu, Los Angeles (overnight in port), Puerto Quetzal, Panama Canal (scenic cruising), Willemstad, Oranjestad, Miami, Ponta Delgada, Southampton, London
In sun-drenched Miami, the options for exploration and entertainment are endless. Bask on the famed shores of South Beach, explore the vibrant street art of Wynwood Walls, or indulge in culinary delights Little Havana’s diverse eateries.
The brand-new Queen Anne is a luxurious cruise liner o ering opulent accommodations, fine dining, and exquisite service, promising an unforgettable voyage of elegance and indulgence on the high seas.
Visiting: Sydney, Port Vila, Suva, Honolulu, Los Angeles (overnight in port), Puerto Quetzal, Panama Canal (scenic cruising), Willemstad, Oranjestad, Miami, Ponta Delgada, Southampton
Complimentary Oceanview to Balcony upgrade
TIP-STARS
Karen Eyssens Star
Bonnett Lexus
Kip Homewood South East Orthodontics
Dave
Baldi leading way for Casey
By Jonty Ralphsmith
Casey Demons midfielder Riley Baldi has had a hot start to the season at VFL level with his strength and maturity unlocking a new level in his game.
The Gippslander has averaged 28 disposals, with his consistency an important asset for an up-and-down and inexperienced Demons lineup early in 2025.
Casey sits 2-1-2 five games into the season, with a 118-point shellacking of Richmond last weekend hopefully providing the launchpad for a consistent block of form.
The 24-year-old’s sizzling form follows his 2024 season where he stepped away from VFL after three seasons on the edge of selection.
The grind and uncertainty of VFL wore thin, as he played 18 games for Casey and 25 for local club Moe across the previous two seasons, with the lure of chasing a flag at local level too strong to refuse last season.
Baldi’s consistency was a major factor in the Lions’ run to the preliminary final, with the campaign reinvigorating Baldi.
Playing mostly as a starting midfielder so far in 2025, the 178cm player has approached the grind of the state league with vigour.
“I think I’ve been able to take my opportunity this time whereas last time I didn’t take my chance with both hands,” Baldi said.
“Understanding where you’re at as a VFL player is important, because it’s not all pretty and you have to do some late nights, and you might not get midfield every week because of AFL players (getting prioritised).
“Having that mindset to adapt has been my biggest change, where I might have got caught up with those things in previous years.
“I think this year I’ve got more belief, and I wanted to prove I could play at VFL level, where I probably didn’t believe it 100 percent previously given my inconsistency and playing different roles.”
Despite being unlisted last year, Baldi’s prior experience playing alongside VFL stalwarts Mitch White and Jimmy Munro has given him insight he’s hoping to impart on a refreshed Demons list.
As well as being a formal leader of the playing group, which resulted in him standing in as skipper when Deakyn Smith was suspended, Baldi is also a development midfield coach, an ambition he’s hoping to pursue alongside and beyond his playing days.
I fell out of love with the VFL side of things after 2023 and didn’t know where I was at with it,” Baldi admitted.
“That year at local, I was playing alright, I didn’t feel pressure, so it drove me, and the opportunity came with Casey to do some coaching which interested me and I’ve loved it since.
“I definitely knew I would be one of the more experienced players coming back and that excited me – being able to share the experiences I’ve had previously,” Baldi said.
The hard-working 24-year-old received a 2019 national combine invite and spoke to several clubs before going undrafted as an 18-year-old.
While he still harbours ambition to reach the top level, Baldi is settled off the field, working at sports institute Lowanna College and taking up a development midfield coaching role alongside his playing.
“I wanted to prove myself at the VFL level and play majority of the year at the standard,” Baldi noted.
“I want to minimise the gap between really good and bad games and try to keep that consistency for myself and the team.
“I feel like I can be someone who can be relied on to give a certain amount of effort so hopefully that can drive our standards.
“I want to play at the highest level possible and I’m striving to better myself in every aspect.
“I would never say never but it isn’t driving me at the VFL level either, I’m just staying within it and not think too much about that stuff so I can enjoy my footy.”
Casey coach Taylor Whitford, who was an assistant during Baldi’s first stint at VFL level, said the vice-captain’s fast start to the season had exceeded even his expectations.
“He’s built some high quality confidence and he knows what type of player he is,” Whitford said.
“He’s started the year off unbelievably well.
“He’s driving standards and he’s demanding and vocal.
“He’s surprised me with the level he’s playing, but I always knew he had talent it’s just putting the puzzle pieces together which he has in the first month.”
Deszcz the star in Gippsland’s first win in Coates League
By Jonty Ralphsmith
Gippsland’s girls had their first win of the 2025 Coates League season on Sunday defeating Western Jets 16.7(103) to 7.2(44) at a typically blowy Williamstown Oval.
It was a breakout game for Pakenham’s Ava Deszcz, kicking five goals and taking eight marks in a 22-disposal effort.
Deszcz played 11 Under-18s games for Gippsland last year having just turned 16, alongside seven games for the Outer East premiership-winning Lions, winning the best-onground medal in the grand final.
An old-school, smart footballer with a nose for goals, Sunday’s match was comfortably her best at the level.
“She’s always had moments in relevant positions and does great things but has lacked execution, but she finished everything on a gusty day on Sunday,” Gippsland coach Nathan Boyd said.
“She got up the group and helped us higher up and showed us she has a lot of power and footy IQ.
“She’s been working on process around her finish because she’s always impact.
“She can drive her legs and is powerful and we’ve seen her finish with her kicking.”
Deszcz’s Pakenham teammate Abby Hobson was also among the best, accumulating 24 disposals and kicking two goals as a marking forward.
“She covered the ground well, she was high,
she was deep and looked to be the most dangerous forward when the ball was coming out of contest and in transition,” Boyd said.
“She read conditions well, held front spot, took some early marks and her confidence built.
“As a high forward, she’s almost having impact like a midfielder even though we’ve never played her in the midfield before.
“She showed she has incredible athleticism, speed and power.”
The evenness of the performance pleased Boyd, with combative midfielder Rebecca Fitzpatrick, classy bottom-aged midfielder Grace Dillow, ruck Charlize Dent and midfielder Chelsea Sutton all among the best.
“Grace Dillow was fantastic in the middle:
she was strong over the footy, really clean and gave us drive out of stoppage,” Boyd said.
“Chelsea was consistent with the attacking stuff out of the middle and Bec Fitzpatrick played as a gritty, combative, defensive midfielder.
“She led really well and had a consistent day showcasing her day around strength, contest and pressure and Charlize is developing well.”
It was Gippsland’s first match for three weeks after a competition-wide bye was followed by a team bye last week.
“The two week break was refreshing for the girls to go back and play local footy; we were able to reflect on the first block and we came in and the energy was really good and so was the
preparation,” Boyd said.
“The girls feed off each other’s energy positively after a win.”
Boyd also offered an insight into AFLW Academy member Ella Stoddart’s early season form, which has her averaging 17 disposals as a halfback.
“She played as a high defender and got her hands on the footy on Sunday,” Boyd said.
“She’s great rebounding off the halfback line,
“There’s a focus for her on defending and that looked really good.
“She getting the balance between attacking and defending right.”
The Power are next in action on Sunday at 1.30pm at Avalon Airport Oval, Werribee, against Geelong Falcons, which sits 2-2 after four games.
That match will immediately follow the boys match at 11am.
Ava Deszcz played a breakout game against Western Jets, kicking five goals. (Rob Carew: 402284).
Abby Hobson was excellent in the forward half on Sunday. (402284)
Riley Baldi looks to pounce on a loose ball. (Martin Keep: AFL Photos)
THROWBACK: Riley Baldi in action for Gippsland Power.
Berwick Springs titanic
By Dylan Beaumont
Berwick Springs has clawed back from a game high 25-point deficit in the third quarter to defeat St Kilda City in a thrilling Southern Division 3 contest at Mick Morland Reserve.
The thrilling finish culminated with Berwick Springs snaring three goals in the final five minutes of play to pinch the unlikeliest of victories…11.18(84) to 12.9(81).
At the 25-minute mark of the last quarter Ty Ellison goaled to reduce the margin to nine; quickly followed by a Kayden Buselli goal just 90 seconds later.
In the final 30 seconds of the match, Ellison clunked a mark forward which wasn’t paid.
He then turned around, quickly snapped a shot from 25 metres out which went through the middle. After one last thrust forward for St Kilda City, Titans’ captain Brent Urwin flew to mark the football and the siren blew shortly after.
It was the Titans first lead since 8-7 in the first 10 minutes of the game.
Ellison maintained his superb form with four goals while Seth Wilson, Michael Misso and Thomas Stiglich were fantastic for the winners.
St Kilda City was steered by four goals to Will Hollands while Ethan Whish-Wilson chipped in with three.
Ben Potter and Max Lewis gave it their all for the visitors, who dropped to third on the ladder following their first loss.
The only other undefeated team remaining in the competition, Carrum Patterson Lakes, foiled Lyndhurst’s plan of any sort of upset with a 74-point win, 22.9(141) to 9.13(67).
Taking 16 minutes to kick their first score of the game, the home side then constructed eight goals in the second quarter.
The Lions were in cruise control after halftime, adding another 10 goals to their tally.
Spearhead Matthew Baxter had a season high bag of five goals, while Terence Patten, Brad Seasons and Alex Wilson all followed suit with three goals each.
Harrison Scott and Ryan McMahon were strong around the ground.
For Lyndhurst, Jack Hazendonk starred as always, slotting four of his side’s nine goals.
Dale Donkin kicked three goals while Jamie Connor and Liam Rogan were prominent.
Lyndhurst has now descended to the bottom of the ladder, the only team yet to register a win for the season.
South Mornington fans were capering around Citation Oval when the final siren signified their second consecutive win, 9.8(62) to 7.5(47) over
Heatherton.
The Tigers trailed by a single point at quarter time, half time and three quarter time, until slamming their foot on the accelerator in the last quarter, kicking three goals straight to two behinds.
Chris Baker gave his side the lead at the six minute mark before Jackson Weyne and Broden Bird put the game away for good.
Travis French kicked four goals for the victors, following his goal kicking prowess from last season where he managed 64 goals in 18 games.
Heatherton has now dropped three straight games, moving to 1-3.
Hampton’s inaccurate kicking was overshadowed by Ashwood, who kicked 5.12(42) to Hampton’s 11.12(78).
A quick first quarter burst gave the Hammers a 16-point lead at quarter time and they never looked back.
Holding a game high 43-point lead in the fourth quarter, Madden Griffin kicked his final goal out of three for the day to take his seasonal tally to 12 through four matches.
Daniel Jones also had three majors for the winners, while Levi Robinson doubled up with two.
Scout Greenhalgh and Sam Poort were strong around the ground.
For Ashwood, Nicholas Lowrie was the only multiple goalkicker with two, while Mitch Wilkinson played well alongside Joshua Hocking and Francis Palleschi.
Black Rock broke through for its second win of the season, snapping a two game losing streak against Skye in a 31-point win.
The home side held their opponents at arm’s length all game, skipping to a 20-point lead at quarter time.
Despite various comeback attempts, Black Rock kicked truly when required, especially in the fourth quarter.
Standout goalkicker Aaron Cloke slotted another four majors, which he has had in three of his four matches to begin the season.
Cloke is on track to kick his 1000th recorded goal next week after 288 games.
Besides Cloke, Cameron Waters kicked three goals, while Stewart Mathieson, Mitchell Pondard and Ricky Wait stuffed the stat sheet with two goals each.
Lachlan Neil and Jayden Bradbury were also prominent for Black Rock.
Skye’s Shane Long tried his darnedest to will his side over the line, having three majors.
Michael Boland and the McConville’s (Nathan and Joel) were fantastic for Skye.
ROUND 5 PREVIEW
Round five is headlined by Berwick Springs’ desire for a 5-0 start to the season when they face Ashwood on the road.
While sitting second on the ladder, Berwick Springs maintain a percentage of 139.01, the third highest in the league.
They’ll be aiming to change this statistic and to do so will have to shut down Nicholas Lowrie, who is averaging multiple goals a game.
The only other undefeated side in the form of Carrum Patterson Lakes will take on the grand finalists from last season, South Mornington.
Sitting atop the table, Carrum Patterson Lakes has an average winning margin of 48.25 through four weeks, including their 74-point victory last week.
South Mornington has begun to compile quality form, stringing back-to-back wins against Heatherton and Ashwood together.
Lyndhurst won’t back away from the challenge, hoping to break their winless start to the year at home against Black Rock.
Lyndhurst had their highest score of the year 9.13 (67) in round four, which they’ll need to beat if they are any chance.
Black Rock has an even win to loss ratio of 2-2.
Top-four placed Hampton will head down south to play Skye, who were competitive against Black Rock last weekend.
Hampton’s Madden Griffin has ignited his side on several occasions this season and will aim to do so again, while Shane Long is finding his best form at the right time.
Heatherton will look to turn the early tide against St Kilda City on Saturday afternoon.
Heatherton has started at 1-3 and its early struggles on the scoreboard are noticeable.
They are yet to kick over eight goals in a game, a fix which will inevitably result into wins if actioned. St Kilda City’s blemish last week will be quickly forgotten if they can right their wrongs this week.
SOUTHERN DIVISION 3
Results R4: Berwick Springs 11.18 (84) def St Kilda City 12.9 (81), Carrum Patterson Lakes 22.9 (141) def Lyndhurst 9.13 (67), South Mornington 9.8 (62) def Heatherton 7.5 (47), Black Rock 15.12 (102) def Skye 10.11 (71), Hampton 11.12 (78) def Ashwood def 5.12 (42).
Ladder: Carrum Patterson Lakes 16, Berwick Springs 16, St Kilda City 12, Hampton 8, Black Rock 8, South Mornington 4, Skye 4, Heatherton 4, Ashwood 4, Lyndhurst 0.
Fixture R5: Lyndhurst (10) v Black Rock
Blast from the past as Cannons welcome big guns home
By Justin Schwarze
The Casey Cannons Hockey Club had a day filled with reflection and historical commemoration when it welcomed former key figures in a past players day.
A huge crowd showed its support and appreciation for the club, enjoying a day of festivities, memories and of course, hockey.
“The turnout reflected how strong the club is and how committed the families are because you had generations of families there,” Cannons club President Seann Rowland reflected.
“It was so good to see so many people reconnecting but also seeing where the club is now.
“The atmosphere around the club on the day was buzzing, there were so many people chatting about old stories.”
In the day’s action, the Women’s Vic League 1 faced Brunswick, a match which saw neither team find the back of the net and thus result in a 0-0 draw.
The Women’s Vic League 1 Reserves side was able to defeat Brunswick 1-0, thanks to a strike from Cleo Guastella.
A lone goal from Emily Noney wasn’t enough for the Pennant E squad, going down 1-2 to Southern United.
Southern were able to claim the bragging rights, defeating the South Metro 1 side 1-0 as well.
In the men’s, the Vic League 2 backed up last week’s 5-0 win with a 4-0 triumph against Eastern Christian Hockey Organisation (ECHO).
“We’ve really been concentrating on being able to play out a whole game and not fade, so keeping a clean sheet was certainly a big part of that,” head coach Steve Noney said of his team’s performance.
“The intensity we’re playing with is good, but I think its controlled intensity.
“Most of our goals come through field goals which is a promising sign, so we’ve got to keep building on that.”
ECHO’s reserves team got the better of the Cannons despite Tadhg McCurran finding the goal, finishing with a 1-2 result in favour of the visitors.
Goals from Zach Coster, Matt Guastella and McCurran steered the Pennant D South East outfield 3-1 past Southern United.
However, the Metro 2 South team was no match for United, falling 0-4 at home.
Regardless of the results, the club was refreshed to see the positive outcome of the day and realise the positives 2025 has brought.
A big highlight was seeing the junior competition kick off over the weekend, with a major milestone achieved by the club.
The Cannons fielded sides in every juniors age bracket, something Casey has never seen before, which is an achievement that speaks volumes of the progression of the club.
Car-
“I couldn’t have hoped for it to be any better than it was,” Rowland said of the day.
“It showed how strong the club is and what strong history it has.”
(5),
rum Patterson Lakes (1) v South Mornington (6), Heatherton (8) v St Kilda City (3), Ashwood (9) v Berwick Springs (2), Skye (7) v Hampton (4).
Lochie Wrigley and his Berwick Springs’ teammates came from behind to defeat St Kilda City on Saturday. (Gary Sissons: 475431)
Cannons legends the Randall family in attendance. Steve, Chris, Margaret and Michael all played senior games for Casey, including Margaret in the club’s foundation year in 1989. (Supplied: 476453)
