Devon Meadows Primary School marked R U OK? Day this week, bringing together staff, students and community members to highlight the importance of checking in on one another.
Held on Tuesday 9 September, the event featured activities designed to encourage students to reflect on mental health, kindness and connection. The school grounds turned bright yellow as students dressed in the campaign’s colour and released balloons in support.
Full story Page 6
R U OK? captains Sienna, Charlotte, Oscar and Olivia.
(Stewart Chambers: 500978)
Graffiti disgrace
By Ethan Benedicto
Graffiti on state-owned assets across Casey has again become a centrepiece of concern, with the council renewing calls for the State Government to change its approach and clean up visible corridors.
The City of Casey says its long-standing zero-tolerance stance is being undercut by a state policy that largely restricts removals to areas near rail platforms, leaving stretches of sound barriers, bridges and overpasses tagged for months.
Mayor Stefan Koomen says council is “committed to clean, safe, welcoming public spaces” and is willing to manage removals on the state’s behalf, if funding follows. Since 2002, Casey’s own program has fielded
more than 7500 requests a year and removed over 50,000 square metres of graffiti from council assets and eligible private properties at no cost to owners, but state-controlled sites remain the sore point.
Frustration boiled over earlier in the year beneath the Berwick Station overpass on Clyde Road, where councillors and residents gathered to decry fresh tags that cover barrier artwork.
Councillors were told by agencies that nonoffensive graffiti on state assets doesn’t meet removal thresholds; Opposition Leader and Berwick MP Brad Battin said the slow, “complex” removalprocesssignalsade-prioritisationofpublic amenity.
For the stories, turn to Page 2
Push to act on graffiti mess
By Ethan Benedicto
The City of Casey has urged decisive action from the State Government to address the growing issue of graffiti vandalism in the municipality.
Particularly observed on state-owned infrastructure along the rail corridor and major roads in Casey, the state only currently allows graffiti removal near rail platforms, therefore leaving large stretches of other visible infrastructure untouched.
Casey’s mayor, Stefan Koomen, said that the council is committed to having clean, safe, and welcoming public spaces across Casey, where graffiti has no place.
“Council has long upheld a zero-tolerance stance on graffiti to maintain a clean and welcoming environment,” he said.
“Yet, the ongoing presence of graffiti on visible state-owned infrastructure continues to frustrate both council and residents.
“Council is calling for immediate action to remove this graffiti and urges the state government to reconsider its current policy.
“We are willing to manage graffiti removal on the state’s behalf, provided appropriate funding is made available.”
Earlier last month, in August, Cr Scott Dowling, Cr Kim Ross and Cr Anthony Walter spoke to residents just below the Berwick Station overpass on Clyde Road, where white and green markings have long been painted over the track barriers’ original designs.
Cr Dowling said then that the graffiti is “offensive to everyone”, and they needed to “stamp it out now”.
First voicing his concerns to Metro Trains Melbourne (MTM) and Public Transport Victoria (PTV), considering that the overpass and barriers are under the State Government authority, Dowling received a response that PTV is not required to remove graffiti from buildings, structures and
fences, unless it is deemed to be offensive.
“I think there is something we [the council] can do about it, because this is going to get out of hand,” Dowling told Star News then.
“The council offered to do something about it, but we were told no, and several residents have also written letters and have gotten the response that they can’t do anything about it.”
Since launching its Graffiti Management Program in 2002, Casey has led the way in tackling graffiti vandalism across Victoria.
The program itself is one of the largest and most comprehensive in the state, attending to more than 7500 calls and removing over 50,000 square metres of graffiti annually from all council
assets and eligible private properties at no cost to owners.
For Cr Walter, having listened to the residents’ concerns in August, he believes the communities in Casey deserve better.
“Graffiti on state government-controlled properties, particularly along Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road, Clyde Road and Camms Road, continues to undermine council’s efforts,” he said.
“We’ve done all the work locally, but we need state support; it’s time for the state government to step up and help us keep Casey clean again.”
A recent media release by the state government in 2023 detailed that they will be delivering an extra $5.5 million for cleaning up the state’s road network.
Despite that, Cr Walter has encouraged all residents to contact their local MPs to express their dissatisfaction and support for expanded graffiti removal projects.
Koomen reflected that for years, the local communities have voiced their concerns about unsightly graffiti on sound barriers and other state-owned infrastructure, including railway stations.
Not the first time the City of Casey has called for action
By Ethan Benedicto
A recent call from the City of Casey for the State Government to have a greater focus on the city’s graffiti is not the first of its kind, with a similar campaign being run by the previous council group from 2016-2017.
On 18 April 2017, then-mayor Sam Aziz led a motion for signs to be erected at the Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road overpass to read: “The ugly state of this railway overpass is the responsibility of the State Government”.
The issue dates further back, however, with the council advocating for state support since 2012-2013, and Star News covering then that residents wrote to Metro Trains requesting that graffiti on the overpass on Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road be removed immediately.
While the current campaign has a strong tone, it is formal in comparison to the abrasiveness of Aziz’s endeavours, with his and the then council’s critical stance of the state government being well-known.
Also covered by Star News at the time, it was stated that these signs would then instruct
readers to contact the three Casey-based state MPs, who were then Luke Donellan, Judith Graley and Jude Perera, and provide their office with phone numbers to “get it fixed”.
More recently, the current Casey mayor, Stefan Koomen, said that the council is committed to having clean, safe, and welcoming public spaces across the city.
“Council is calling for immediate action to remove this graffiti and urges the state government to reconsider its current policy,” he said.
“Council has long upheld a zero-tolerance stance on graffiti to maintain a clean and welcoming environment.”
A Victorian Government spokesperson told Star News that “we do not tolerate vandalism or graffiti and we continue to work closely with Victoria Police to combat this behaviour”.
In context, it was also added that graffiti removal is carried out on a regular basis by the state’s maintenance teams, who conduct periodic inspections of the arterial road network and transport infrastructure.
The Department of Transport and Planning prioritises the removal of any graffiti that is of-
fensive or puts people at risk.
Likewise, earlier in August 2025, Cr Scott Dowling, Cr Kim Ross, and Cr Anthony Walter spoke to residents just below the Berwick Station overpass on Clyde Road, where graffiti is visible on the track barriers.
During this gathering, the current Opposition leader and Berwick MP, Brad Battin, weighed in on the issue, adding that earlier in 2025, he wrote to the Minister for Transport Infrastructure regarding the removal of the graffiti.
While the response he received was not satisfactory according to himself, he said that the delay and prolonged process is a “symbol” from the state that they have “stopped prioritising the protection of public property”.
Former mayor Aziz’s reaction to “shame” the state government followed VicTrack’s refusal to clean up graffiti, with Casey then proposing the bridge wall as advertising space to help fund cleaning, a suggestion that VicTrack declined.
A year prior, in 2016, Aziz publicly criticised VicRoads, as Casey spent around $400,000 a year to remove graffiti locally, while VicRoads
only allocated $100,000, statewide, for the same purpose. He told the Cranbourne Star News then that “the Monash Freeway and the Hallam Bypass, which is the gateway to our city, looks like downtown New York in the 1970s”.
“And here we are working hard to build beautiful neighbourhoods and VicRoads don’t want to lift a finger, even though it’s their responsibility; we won’t stop until it gets fixed,” he said then.
This same effort saw the Clean Up Your Act campaign, which resulted in a $300,00 commitment from the state government (as part of the 2016-2017) Budget, specifically earmarked for graffiti removal along the Monash Freeway.
The more recent motion by Koomen and the rest of the council reflected that for years, the
Casey Mayor Stefan Koomen and Cr Anthony Walter inspecting the graffiti on the Merinda Park Railway Station overpass. (Supplied)
Graffiti near the Cranbourne Railway Station. (Supplied)
More graffiti along Merinda Park Station. (Supplied)
Intersection action demand
By Violet Li
Clyde North locals say they’ve had enough of the crashes at the Pattersons Road and Tuckers Road intersection, claiming that Casey Council is dragging its feet while lives are put at risk.
For years, residents have complained about the “partially controlled” traffic light that forces right-turning drivers to give way under confusing conditions.
They say the design flaw has led to countless accidents, sometimes multiple in a single day.
Laura Harris, who has lived nearby, said the situation had become “criminal negligence.”
“I’ve been living here for about five years, and there’s no joke, probably one every two to three weeks. It’s countless,” she said on Wednesday 27 August.
“Last night, there was one at 10.30pm, and then again, this morning at around 8.30am. So, two in less than 24 hours. And they’re all nasty accidents.”
The concerned local said there had been six accidents that she was aware of from Tuesday 19 August to Sunday 31 August.
She said Casey Council had got back to her with a written response acknowledging that the traffic light needed to have its signal updated.
“They haven’t received that funding back, so they’re not doing anything about it. But it doesn’t excuse why they haven’t even put up a sign to say that turning right must give way,” she said.
“They haven’t even put up a sign to try and minimise the risks. There have been no steps taken other than applying for funding to a Federal Black Spot Program.
“They could change their budget and look at other things. Like, for example, they’ve just spent $25,000 on Christmas decorations, but they won’t spend any money to make anything slightly safer at that intersection.”
When inquired, City of Casey Manager City and Asset Planning, Keri New said they are aware of the high frequency of car accidents at the in-
tersection, particularly involving right-turning vehicles failing to give way to oncoming traffic.
“The signal phasing at this location is standard and similar to the nearby intersection at Pattersons Road and Thoroughbred Road, which does not exhibit the same safety challenges,” she said.
“Due to the high number of car accidents, Council applied for Federal Black Spot (FBS) funding last year to implement fully controlled right-turn phases. Although that application was unsuccessful, Council is resubmitting the proposal this year. The proposed changes include Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) software and hardware modifications.
“As an interim safety measure, Council has al-
ready improved line marking at the intersection in collaboration with DTP’s Movement and Safety Team. Council is also looking at ways to speed up the signal changes independently of external funding, although this would still require DTP’s involvement and scheduling, which typically takes six to twelve months.
“Council is currently working alongside Victoria Police and is investigating the use of additional warning or advisory signage on all four approaches to the intersection.”
Other residents echoed Laura’s frustration.
Alex, another local who lives close to the intersection, said the issue was well-known among neighbours.
“Most of the days, they have some crashes
there. At least once a week or twice a week,” he said.
Alex is worried that the new shopping centre in the area, including a new Aldi, will add to the traffic at the intersection.
“It’s going to be worse because we’re having a new shopping centre coming there,” he said.
Another resident said the danger peaks during rush hour.
“It’s always peak hours. I think maybe because people are in a rush during the peak. They just don’t really think too much,” she said.
“I walk along that intersection numerous times a day and a week, and I’m so worried that I’m going to get knocked over or that all the kids in the area who walk to primary school are going to get hit by flying debris from a car accident or an out-of-control car from a car accident,” Laura said.
“I’ve lived in Melbourne my whole life, and I’ve lived near lots of busy intersections. And there’s the occasional bad car accident. But for it to happen this regularly, it is not human error. The error is with the signalling.
“It is absolutely appalling that they know what the problem is. But no one wants to agree to pay for it.”
Monash Health’s first surgical robot arrives at Casey Hospital
By Violet Li
Casey Hospital has unveiled Monash Health’s first surgical robot, a $4.2 million system funded by a local family’s donation.
The family, who wished to remain anonymous, made the contribution through the Monash Health Foundation in 2024, enabling the hospital to purchase a state-of-the-art dual-console robotic system.
The robotic system is used for patients undergoing urology surgeries, with plans to introduce its use into gynaecological, colorectal and other surgeries in the future.
Dr Scott Donnellan, director of Urology at Monash Health, said they had been trying to obtain the robotic device at Casey Hospital for a number of years.
“We had to prove that it was actually better than the open surgery technique. We did a lot of research. We were able to look at the data from about a million cases around the world, which showed improvements for the robot over the traditional open surgery,” he said.
“Then we had to actually be able to afford to buy the instrument. Unfortunately, they are costly, and that’s where the wonderful family of donors came through the Monash Foundation, and they offered to purchase a robot device for Monash Health.
“They did not want to be named because they believed that the device was never about them, but it was actually about the patients.”
For prostate surgeries, the robotic system is proving to be a game-changer.
Dr Donnellan explained that the traditional operation involves a large incision from below the belly button to the pubic bone, performed with scalpels and scissors.
By contrast, the robotic system uses advanced keyhole surgery so that the incisions are much smaller.
“The impact of the patient in terms of recovery is much better,” Dr Donnellan said.
According to him, patients are experiencing less blood loss, less postoperative pain, and faster recovery.
“More importantly than that, our data and the world information suggest that the cancer results in terms of surgical clearance and surgical margins have improved,” Dr Donnellan said.
“The erectile functions improved. The confidence rates improved. So overall, it’s significantly less invasive, and it gives excellent results.”
Although it is often described as “robotic surgery,” Dr Scott Donnellan was quick to point out that the technology does not replace the surgeon.
Instead, it enhances their precision.
“It’s robot-assisted surgery, so it does depend completely on the surgeon…,” he explained.
Sitting at a console inside the operating theatre, the surgeon uses hand controls to steer up to four instruments.
“We actually have numerous instruments, and we can guide each of the four instruments by clutching, like driving a car,” Dr Donnellan said.
“The ideal thing with the robot is that the vision is in three dimensions, so it’s significantly better than a standard laparoscopy. The steadi-
ness of the instruments is outstanding because it takes away all the tremor of the surgeon.
“And the third thing is that the instruments have what we call a wrist. So, at the very near the end, where, for example, a pair of scissors is, there’s a little wrist.
“You can manipulate the instruments into much finer spaces rather than traditional laparoscopy, where the instruments are just straight all the way down. So, it provides extraordinary vision and dexterity for the surgeon.”
The dual-console design also allows two surgeons to operate together, making it safer and faster to train the next generation of specialists.
“What we have found is that the safety of teaching surgeons to perform these operations using a robot is much better and much safer,” Dr Donnellan said.
“The learning curve for the training surgeon has become much steeper because they can do parts of the operation in an intermittent manner with the principal surgeon, literally taking turns doing certain aspects.”
Plans are now underway to expand the program into gynaecological and general surgery, with hopes to introduce similar technology at Monash Health’s Clayton and Dandenong hospitals in the future.
Dr Donnellan said Casey Hospital is leading the way in Monash Health and around Victoria, and it’s growing in one of the largest population growth sectors in the State.
“The excitement and the engagement from the hospital staff are also palpable,” he said.
“It’s really raised the level of the status of the hospital as well.”
The traffic lights at the intersection of Pattersons Road and Tuckers Road.
Clyde North locals say they’ve had enough of the crashes at the Pattersons Road and Tuckers Road intersection.
Casey Hospital Surgical Team. In the middle is the new robotic surgery system. Dr Scott Donnellan was holding one of the four instruments. (Supplied)
Safe space for Casey youth
By Violet Li
On Friday nights in Lyndhurst, when many young people might otherwise be left to wander the streets or scroll endlessly at home, a group gathers at the Marriott Waters Family and Community Centre.
The laughter of board games, the energy of friendly competition, and the comfort of shared meals fill the space. This is The Commissioned Project, a youth mentoring program led by chaplain Johnny Jordan and his team, including youth mentor Rejoyce Elia.
The project was born out of a gap Johnny saw in his own backyard.
As a high school chaplain in Frankston, he was aware of the support networks available there, but in the City of Casey, he found very little.
“We’ve got so many things that are happening in our community, but we don’t have a lot of spaces and resources to support our young people. A space that’s nonthreatening, a space that’s safe,” Johnny said.
“We don’t have those spaces. We got the public stuff. We got the parks. We’ve got the library. We don’t have anything that’s intentionally set up by our community leaders to target young people in a good way, especially after hours.
“I think this is where the issue is.”
That’s how The Commissioned Project came into being.
The program runs during school terms from 7pm to 9.30 pm, offering a safe and inclusive space for young adults.
Activities are deliberately varied: card games, sports, tech-friendly spaces, and open conversations. The real focus is on connection.
“Literally, we started off by saying, How’s everyone doing? What’s been going on in your weeks? What wins have you had? What are you going through?” Johnny said.
“Literally just chat like, we’re checking with them.”
For Rejoyce, joining the project was personal.
“I remember what it was like coming out of high school and just being confused by the adulting world and going into the university,” she said.
“I know for me, it’s a thing of if I can create a space where everyone transitioning into being a young adult can find their space and feel comfortable too.
“Then if I can be a part of that, then that’s easy.
“It’s about giving them a mindset of even your smallest wins are worth celebrating. Your losses are worth talking about so that you can prevent them from happening again.”
The project extends beyond Friday nights.
The Commissioned Project runs a YouTube
channel showcasing positive stories from local youth and businesses, countering the negative headlines often associated with young people.
Still, Johnny is frank about the challenges. Attendance numbers are modest—around 30 at combined events. Many young people remain isolated at home,
a trend exacerbated by Covid.
“There’s youth crime, all of these things that are happening,” Johnny admitted.
“But there’s also a glimmer of hope there. And we try to highlight that hope.
“It’s like teaching. There’s no immediate reward. It’s long-term.
Up and moving under lights and after hours
The City of Casey is lighting up select outdoor venues to encourage residents to stay active and connected after sunset.
From now until Tuesday, 30 September, community members can enjoy floodlit spaces at Edwin Flack Athletics Track, Berwick; Casey Fields Athletics Track, Cranbourne East; and Max Pawsey Reserve, Narre Warren.
Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen and Casuarina Ward Councillor Kim Ross recently visited after dark, with Koomen saying that “we’re trialling this to give more people chances to get active in safe, welcoming spaces after dark”.
“If the community gets behind it, we’d love to light up even more venues and extend the hours next year,” he said.
Cr Ross said that the community have been open about safer places for after-hours exercise, adding that residents should “come on down for a walk, a run, a kick of the footy or a soccer ball”.
“The choice is yours, and make this trial a success,” she said.
The floodlit venues and times are listed below:
■ Mondays, 5:30pm to 9:00pm - Max Pawsey Reserve, Narre Warren
■ Sundays, 5:30pm to 9:00pm - Casey Fields Athletics Track, Cranbourne East
“It’ll be like a decade down the road. We will get the reward.”
To know more about The Commissioned Project, visit its YouTube channel: youtube. com/channel/UC47yTjxVvk6-4dJdK1MQkXw To join the project, you can email: info@thecommissionedproject.com.au
Man, 26, charged with murder
Homicide Squad detectives have charged a Cranbourne man in relation to a death in Ivanhoe on 2 September.
Emergency services were called to a property on Linden Avenue about 6pm after the deceased 27-year-old Narre Warren South man was located.
The cause of his death is yet to be determined, but it is currently being treated as suspicious.
The 26-year-old Cranbourne man was arrested following a pursuit in Pakenham on the morning of Sunday 7 September.
He has been charged with one count of murder.
A 25-year-old Narre Warren man also arrested in Pakenham on Sunday 7 September.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at: crimestoppersvic.com.au.
The Commissioned Project chaplain Johnny Jordan, and partner Rejoyce Elia. (Violet Li)
Casey’s Mayor Stefan Koomen, alongside Cr Kim Ross, are encouraging residents to make use of the after-hours floodlights. (Supplied)
Casey director on the move
By Corey Everitt and Ethan Benedicto
The neighbouring Cardinia Shire Council has announced James Collins, the City of Casey’s current Director of City Planning and Infrastructure, as its new CEO.
This followed a special council meeting by Cardinia on Monday night, where its councillors appointed Collins by unanimous vote to the CEO position.
Recorded by the Pakenham Gazette, Collins said that, when he is to be appointed on 13 October for the five-year contract, he will bring his almost two decades of experience with councils to lead “real results” for the “dynamic, diverse and evolving shire”.
Collins currently serves as Casey’s head of city planning and infrastructure, a role he held since 2019; as of late, had been one of the more prominent voices during the council meetings’ public question times, addressing almost 200 questions since the special meeting in November 2024.
Topics of interest included the waste transfer station in Hampton Park, as well as the Berwick Springs Lake / Guru Nana Lake, and a swathe of other planning items such as road infrastructure, zoning requirements, rubbish and more.
Collins will fill the role after Cardinia’s Carol Jeffs departed as CEO in July, ending an almost seven-year stint in leadership.
“It’s an honour to have been appointed to this role, and I’m really looking forward to joining Cardinia and getting to know the councillors, staff, and the wider community,” he said.
“Cardinia is a dynamic, diverse, and evolving municipality, rich with opportunities and challenges.
“I’m looking forward to leading the next phase of its development and to collaborating with the dedicated Cardinia team, delivering Over
Morning tea and tour
where he served as the acting CEO when Glen Patterson had been absent.
Touching further on his almost 20 years of experience, Collins had been the Yarra Ranges Council’s manager of business and community wellbeing, as well as the director of social and economic development.
He held the role of the manager of youth, aquatics and recreation for the City of Monash, and was the coordinator of leisure and culture at Banyule City Council. His other roles included the director of Yarra Ranges Tourism, directors of Anchor Inc, and the committee of management for the National Growth Areas Alliance, a role he still holds until now.
The City of Casey chose not to comment on Collins’ appointment as CEO.
Cardinia’s mayor, Jack Kowarzik, said that Collins was selected from an impressive list of applicants during the independent recruitment process.
“We received strong interest from a number of exceptional candidates for the CEO role, which speaks to the exciting opportunities this role offers - not only to lead the organisation, but also to help shape one of Melbourne’s largest growing communities,” Kowarzik said.
“James has a very grounded and authentic leadership style with extensive experience in local government, particularly within neighbouring councils.
”He understands and will be able to balance the needs of diverse, rural, and urban communities, manage significant asset portfolios, and secure external funding to address infrastructure gaps.”
With Collins’ experience locally, Kowarzik is confident that he will be able to lead with his knowledge of key issues.
“With this experience and ability to build strong relationships across the community and government sectors, I’m confident James will
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the last few months, Collins repeatedly as well as details on the role council played
Cardinia Mayor Jack Kowarzik and new Cardinia chief executive officer James Collins. (Supplied: Cardinia Shire Council)
Students stay connected
Devon Meadows Primary School came together this week to mark R U OK? Day, with staff, students, and community members uniting to promote the importance of checking in on one another.
The event, held on Tuesday 9 September, saw the school host activities encouraging students to think about mental health, kindness, and connection.
Students dressed in yellow and filled the school grounds with bright yellow balloons.
The Devon Meadows event was part of the national campaign encouraging Australians to stay connected and have meaningful conversations that can help people through tough times.
Senior Constable Kaitlyn Jones-Monash with Matilda and Lucy.
Dave Prowse from the Devon Meadows CFA and Lucy. Hula hoop- Ruby.
Upside down - Elijah.
Dave Prowse, Matt Pilley, Watson and Jeff Knight from the Devon Meadows CFA.
Gracie and Eve were having a go at cricket.
Zephyr-Rose.
over obstacles, doing Parkour.
Hundreds of dog incidents
By Ethan Benedicto
The City of Casey is sharpening its focus on preventing dog attacks, after new figures revealed the municipality continues to record hundreds of incidents each year.
According to the draft Domestic Animal Management Plan (DAMP 2026–2029), there were 395 reported dog attacks and rushes in 2024/25.
Of these, 146 involved people, 144 involved other animals, and 105 were classified as rushes, where a dog aggressively approaches within three metres of a person without biting.
While the overall numbers have remained relatively stable in recent years, Casey acknowledges that the risk of serious injury remains high.
“Many dog attacks occur when dogs are off their property, in unfamiliar environments, and without adequate socialisation or training,” the plan reads.
“This highlights the importance of responsible pet ownership, where training and positive socialisation play a critical role in preventing aggressive behaviour.”
The plan also notes that Casey has one of the highest dog populations in Victoria, with more than 35,000 registered cats and dogs in 2024/25.
That figure has grown alongside the city’s population, which rose from 369,453 in 2021 to an estimated 429,383 in 2025.
Despite this rapid growth, the number of reported dog attacks has stayed relatively consistent, averaging between 348 and 395 annually over the past four years.
Council officers say this stability is partly due to enforcement and education efforts, but the document remains clear that further work is needed to prevent attacks and improve community safety.
The Plan outlines a firm response framework for dealing with dog attacks, which includes that all reports are prioritised within 24 hours, with officers available after hours for emergencies. Dogs suspected of being involved in attacks may be seized and impounded while investigations are carried out, and non-serious injury offences can result in infringements, while serious injury cases must be prosecuted in court.
BUSINESS IN FOCUS
Helping students leap ahead
By Ann-Marie Hermans MP
While the rest of the world races ahead, too many of our students are falling behind. According to the Grattan Institute, one in three cannot read properly. It’s the same story in maths - one in three fail to reach proficiency.
There’s no point in our students worrying about global issues if they can’t first read, write, or calculate. These are the foundations of learning, and they must come first.
For too long, the Allan Labor Government has been captive to education ideologues who put theory before outcomes. While Labor dithered, many of our best educators took matters into their own hands, ditching failed methods and adopting explicit direct instruction.
This approach is clear, structured, and proven. Teachers break down concepts into smaller parts, model exactly what is required, and give students frequent opportunities for practice and feedback. It’s not radical. It’s just common sense.
I’ve seen it in action. At Bentleigh West Primary, students achieving some of the best NAPLAN results in the nation and retaining phenomenal teaching staff using explicit instruction. Locally, Chelsea Heights Primary is seeing a major turnaround in learning outcomes and behaviour using the exact same methods.
As a former educator, these are the methods I used in the classroom because I know it works. But we can’t leave individual schools to clean up Labor’s mess. This crisis is the result of poor government policy, nothing less.
While Labor has reluctantly begun embedding explicit teaching into the curriculum, they still refuse to back a target of 90 per cent student proficiency in reading and numeracy. That’s frankly unacceptable.
As your local Member and Victoria’s Shadow Assistant Education Minister, I’ll continue to champion explicit instruction so our students can achieve more than any generation before them.
such as secure enclosures, muzzling in public, distinctive collars, and property signage.
Alongside enforcement, the plan commits to a stronger emphasis on prevention.
Council officers will conduct both reactive and proactive patrols, particularly in public spaces where dogs are frequently sighted offleash or where attack complaints have been made.
Targeted communications campaigns are also on the horizon, aimed at educating residents about securely confining dogs to properties, as well as the importance of early socialisation and obedience training.
Signage about dog behaviour and etiquette may also be introduced at dog-friendly spaces from 2029.
The plan also highlights the importance of reaching children early with plans to have the council continue to promote State Government programs in kindergartens and primary schools, including responsible pet ownership lessons and dog bite prevention sessions.
By embedding awareness at a young age, the aim is to reduce the risk of dangerous interactions between children and dogs in the community.
The draft plan sets out several objectives for the next four years, including: ensuring all dog attack complaints are investigated promptly, reviewing prosecution processes to provide faster resolution for victims, expanding patrols to evenings and weekends, and strengthening communication between victims, dog owners, officers, and prosecutors during investigations.
Courts also have the power to order property upgrades to secure dogs, ban individuals from owning dogs, or, in some cases, order the destruction of the animal.
At the conclusion of prosecutions, the council may also declare dogs involved in serious attacks as Dangerous Dogs, imposing strict conditions
While acknowledging the challenges, the document stresses that education remains the key tool in reducing attack numbers.
“Promoting education and awareness about responsible dog ownership is essential to reducing the risk of attacks and supporting the safety of our community,” the plan states.
The City of Casey has renewed its focus on dog attacks under its new Domestic Animal Management Plan. (Unsplash: Bruce Warrington)
Helping students leap ahead: The power of explicit teaching.
Soccer universal language
By
In a head-to-head match-up between Melbourne City FC and Victoria Police, both teams are determined to leave it all on the field in a soccer match-up for the annual Blue Ribbon Cup.
To be held this coming Friday, 12 September at Narre Warren South P-12 College, the VicPol team has its eyes set on the win, but more importantly, the greater message that the day sends.
Senior Sergeant Gurkarnvir Singh said that “the greatest thing about this sports event is that it takes us out of the uniform”.
“We’re not this person that’s wearing a big vest, has a radio blaring, we’re just there to have a fun time,” he said.
The Blue Ribbon Cup is an annual AFL match contested between Hawthorn and St Kilda FC, and was established in 1999 in honour and remembrance of Sergeant Gary Silk and Senior Constable Rodney Miller, both of whom were tragically killed in the line of duty in Moorabbin in 1998.
It stands as one of the AFL’s most enduring traditions dedicated to honouring fallen officers, and, shortly after the deaths of Silk and Miller, the VicPol Blue Ribbon Foundation was formed.
The Cup itself is among several efforts by the Foundation to celebrate service, raise awareness, foster community support, and, for Singh, to bridge the gap between officers such as himself and the younger generation.
“For the younger generation, they would kind of see us as people as opposed to just being police officers, and that we’re just like them,” Singh said.
“We make mistakes on the soccer pitch, we get emotionally charged in the game, and I think for the kids that I’ve had these events with, they, at the end, go, ‘oh, you’re like us too’.”
Singh, as someone who joined the New Zealand police force when he was just 19 years old, said that having that connection with the younger members of the community, and that they are not just “Robo-cops”, but instead other people, is what really matters.
Sunil Menon, the head of community from Mel-
bourne City FC, said that the club’s members have been looking forward to the match, but also that, like Singh’s sentiments, it is recognised as a bridge to others.
“Football, being such a global sport, attracts so many different cultures and backgrounds, and I think in the southeast in particular, where it’s a melting pot of different cultures, football can be a language that everyone speaks,” he said.
“I think it also makes people see the bigger picture of what life can be about, how football can help in that.
“It also just builds friendships, right? I think when you play against someone, you build a connection, you share a meal with them afterwards.”
Both Menon and Singh also lamented that the upcoming match, and its historic foundations, come heavier, especially following the deaths of two police officers at Porepunkah.
SMALL BUSINESS SHOWCASE
Likewise, both told the story of a young boy whom local police had become acquainted with for alleged crimes such as graffiti or shoplifting.
However, after playing one of Cup’s matches, it became a moment of realisation that they too were people like him.
“It’s that shared passion, whether it be soccer, cricket, AFL, it’s that coming together to achieve something,” Singh said.
“It breaks down those barriers, that ‘us and them’ mentality, and it’s where you can connect at a level where the youths understand what you’re saying.
“You’re not going to have the greatest conversation around Minecraft with all the police officers, but with sport, it’s like a generational bridge.”
Menon added that with so many cultures coming together to play the sport, there is no doubt that many come from places where people’s experienc-
es with law enforcement “have been negative”. He said that it would be no surprise if those perceptions came with them as they moved here; hence the importance of these events, something he described to shed light on the unknown.
“For a lot of young people, when they realise that police are actually here to help, here to protect, all the while during football, it really becomes a big part of what we do in these matches,” Menon said.
“It’s about rooting for the same team, the kids finding it funny that some of these officers are actually good at the sport; it’s about finding those connections.”
The day’s event will begin with a curtain raiser match between the Narre Warren Girls team and theGleneaglesGirlsteamfrom11:30amto12:30pm. This will be followed by the Blue Ribbon Cup starting at 1pm until 2:30pm, with short presentations to follow.
Sunil Menon from Melbourne City FC, said that the event was a great way to show the younger players that officers are people too. (Supplied)
Ethan Benedicto
Senior Sergeant Gurkarnvir Singh said that being able to speak a universal language with the younger players has helped break down barriers. (Supplied)
Likely impacts recognised
By Violet Li
The State Government’s updated draft scoping requirements for the Port of Hastings Terminal environment effects statement (EES) now recognises the likely impacts on Ramsar wetlands, threatened species and migratory birds at Western Port.
According to the State Government, the update was incurred following consideration of public comments received on a draft exhibited between November and December 2024, as well as following a decision in August this year by Federal Environment Minister Murray Watt that the project is a controlled action.
The scoping requirements are the blueprint for that EES. They set out which environmental matters need to be investigated and identify priority issues.
The purpose of the EES is to provide a “sufficiently detailed” description of the project, assess its potential effects on the environment and assess relevant feasible alternatives and approaches to avoid and mitigate effects.
Compared with the old version, the updated scoping requirement now addresses matters of national environmental significance (MNES) under the Commonwealth EPBC Act, recognising that the project is likely to have a significant impact on Ramsar wetlands, listed threatened species and communities, and listed migratory species.
In June this year, the State Government submitted a modified proposal for the Port of Hastings Terminal for Federal approval with reduced reclamation and dredging.
The modified proposal states that in response to the then-Federal Environment Minister’s veto of the 2023 referral, the project has undergone “extensive” preliminary impact assessment studies, which are evidenced by the submission of almost 40 relevant documents.
The project, known as the Victorian Renew-
able Energy Terminal, was proposed back in 2023 to “develop and operate a facility to serve as a base for the assembly of offshore wind farms” at the Port of Hastings.
Then-Federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek rejected the proposal publicly in January 2024.
In her statement, she said that although a detailed project specification and environmental assessment had not been undertaken, she noted
and accepted the advice from the department’s Wetland Section Line Area that the information provided was sufficient to conclude that the project was “clearly unacceptable”.
Fast forward to this year, as the modified proposal of the Port of Hastings Terminal gained Federal approval to proceed further, local conservation groups called for “exhaustive” scrutiny under the environmental assessment, public involvement, a full investigation of alternative sites,
Maybe One Nation’s Pauline Hanson is not wrong - but she’s not quite right either
On the surface, the recent March for Australia rallies claim to oppose “mass immigration.”
With support from figures like Pauline Hanson and echo chambers online, the narrative is simple: Australia is full.
But here’s the thing - they’re not entirely wrong.
Yes, immigration numbers are high.
Yes, Australians are struggling with housing, healthcare, and education.
Yes, taxpayers feel stretched.
And yes, when you watch new arrivalsrefugees, asylum seekers, or foreign students - seemingly fast-tracked through government systems while you wait years, it’s a bitter pill to swallow.
But the issue is not migration. It is management.
The anger is not irrational.
It is real, and it is growing.
Emergency rooms are overwhelmed while interpreters are funded for those who have lived here for over a decade.
Social housing queues stretch for years while new arrivals seem to get placements quickly.
Crime rates are rising, and it is easier to blame the “new face” than the broken system that let it fester.
These are not racist observations. These are system failures.
But we have allowed frustration to morph into fear - and fear into hatred.
Immigration without integration breeds division.
Australia has always been a land of migrants.
But we can not ignore that an influx from a single ethnicity or religion, without cultural integration or responsibility, can stir unease.
Especially when it seems those communities do not assimilate, do not speak English, or do not appear invested in Australian values.
Multiculturalism without mutual respect becomes tribalism.
That is not unity – that is a ticking time bomb.
We have made mistakes on both ends:
■ Governments have coddled, not educated.
■ Some newcomers have taken advantage, not contributed.
■ Policies reward disconnection, not participation.
Australia has spent an estimated $400 million in five years on interpreter services - services often accessed by people who have lived here for 10-plus years.
That is not compassionate. That is unsustainable.
Unless there is a learning disability or elderly exemption, after two years, pay for your own interpreter.
Learn the language. Respect the country. Get involved.
You do not get to live here and live entirely as you did “back home.”
Because this is now your home.
The path forward is fairness, not fear.
We have so many jobs that need filling in areas like agriculture and construction that the Government is throwing incentives for Australians to fill (i.e. pickers) but no one wants the jobs, yet we cry about migrants taking our jobs?
So where does that leave us?
We agree with the sentiment:
■Migration must be sustainable
■Resources must be fairly distributed
■Integration must be expected, not optional
■Australians need to feel prioritised and heard
But here’s the kicker:
■It’s not the migrants who failed Australia.
■It’s our leaders who do.
■ And it’s our lack of Cultural Intelligence (CQ) that is widening the gap.
Cultural Intelligence does not mean political correctness.
It means smart policy built on real data and lived experiences.
■ Mandatory English pathways for long-term migrants
■ Values-based education in schools to teach acceptance, fairness, and contribution
■ Eligibility audits for refugee, housing, and social services access
■ Better support for everyday Australians, so they do not feel left behind This is not “left” or “right.” It’s just common sense.
We are proud Australians too.
We are generational Australians with brown skin and multilingual homes.
We cried with excitement when the Matildas soared and cheer in our green and gold when Australia takes on India in cricket.
We are done with being labelled “diverse” when all we want is to be called what we areAustralian.
Let us stop pretending it is racist to question broken systems.
And let’s stop pretending these systems are working. Because they are not.
A lack of transparency by government, coupled with a media machine that hypes distraction over truth, is fuelling division.
While real issues like housing, healthcare, and resource strain go unaddressed, politicians continue to pander to sectional interests, offering band-aids instead of blueprints.
This vacuum of leadership allows white supremacists, assimilationists, and neo-Nazis to hijack public discourse - pointing fingers, inflating immigration figures, and blaming nonwhite communities for everything that is wrong.
They are not responding to a crisis.
They are manufacturing one.
So, where to from here?
We build - not on fear, but on fairness.
We lead - not by race, but by shared responsibility.
We unite - not just as communities, but as Australians.
Let us build a future that is proud, transparent, values-driven, and fiercely Australian - together.
- What do you think? Let us know at dailyeditor@starnewsgroup.com.au
and a strategic plan to protect the Western Port. Updated draft scoping requirements are now open for public review and comment until 24 September.
The State’s Planning Minister will issue the final scoping requirements after review.
To read the updated document and submit your comments, visit: engage.vic.gov.au/victorian-renewable-energy-terminal-ees-scoping-requirements
Mayor’s say
By Ethan Benedicto
The City of Casey’s mayor, Stefan Koomen, has condemned the extremist tones of the anti-immigration rallies on 31 August, as they sparked local backlash.
While the rally itself did not happen in Casey, Koomen “acknowledged the broader impact such events can have on our community, particularly in a city as proudly diverse as ours.”
“Casey is home to people from more than 150 cultural backgrounds, and 42 per cent of our residents were born overseas.
“Our community draws strength from this diversity, and we remain committed to ensuring Casey is a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all,” he said.
A Narre Warren South resident, who was in the CBD for a weekend shift, said that the atmosphere was “hostile”, adding that they felt it was more about “anger than sending a message or a solution”.
“Everyone was angry, and as a migrant myself, I could feel their [anti-immigration protestors] anger being directed at me, even though I was nowhere near them,” they said.
They said that avoiding the crowd was manageable, but the message of “unwelcomeness” had become clear, seeing as that after they had come home and stopped by a local shopping centre to do some shopping, they overheard someone telling them to “go back to your country”.
“I didn’t know if they were talking to me, but they said it a bunch of times, and when I looked, I saw them just pointing at my face,” they said. “I wasn’t really offended, but the fact that that has never happened to me before, until the same day of the rally, near home, it really says something.”
For Koomen, he said that he, and Casey as a whole, “unequivocally reject racism, discrimination, and hate in all forms”.
“These have no place in our community and do not reflect who we are; every resident contributes to Casey’s identity and deserves to feel welcome and safe.
“We are proud to be a multicultural community and will continue to celebrate and protect it,” he said.
Stony Point Jetty with two tug boats moored. In the future, this area may see a Terminal that serves as a base for the assembly of offshore wind farms in Victoria. (Gary Sissons: 487066)
Learning beyond textbooks
At St Peter’s College, education goes far beyond textbooks and whiteboards. Our recent Northern Territory trip was a perfect example of the unique opportunities our students enjoy — opportunities that inspire, challenge, and shape them into compassionate, globally-aware citizens.
Over the course of ten days, our students explored the rich cultural heritage and natural wonders of the Northern Territory. From walking through the ancient landscapes of National Parks and Uluru to exploring the waterfalls and crocodiles of Darwin, learning firsthand about traditions and history, this journey offered experiences no classroom alone could provide.
Students hiked through gorges and developed resilience, independence, and teamwork. They
enjoyed bush tucker and damper cooking, gaining a deep appreciation for Aboriginal culture and connection to land. These moments sparked meaningful conversations about identity, history, and respect.
What makes St Peter’s College truly special is our commitment to holistic learning. Our students don’t just study the world — they experience it. The Northern Territory trip was not just an adventure, but a powerful educational experience that fostered empathy, curiosity, and confidence.
Parents considering St Peter’s can be rest assured their children are not only receiving an excellent academic education but also being prepared for life. Our students return from these
journeys changed — more thoughtful, more grounded, and more inspired to make a difference.
To witness our students thrive in such transformative environments is a testament to what sets St Peter’s College apart. We invite families to become part of a school community that values real-world learning, character development, and the endless potential of every child.
St Peter’s College — expert teachers, engaged learners, empowered futures.
St Peter’s College — expert teachers, engaged learners, empowered futures.
A trusted name since 1952
Finning & Company Pty. Ltd. has been proudly serving the Cranbourne community for over 70 years. Founded in 1952 by Jack and Lorraine Finning as Cranbourne Real Estate and Business Agency, the business has grown into one of the most established and respected names in local property.
In 1982, we became a founding member of the First National Group – a cooperative of independent agencies across Australia. By 1986, we moved into our purpose-built office at 148 High Street, Cranbourne, giving us the distinctive, central presence we still enjoy today.
Stability, Experience & Innovation
Few agencies can match our record of consistency
and longevity. For more than seven decades, Finning First National has remained a stable, familyrun business with a highly experienced team. Our guiding principle has always been simple: “Client Benefit First.”
While proud of our history, we continue to innovate. Our team embraces new ideas and modern marketing strategies, ensuring clients enjoy the advantages of both traditional experience and contemporary methods.
No Sale – No Charge: Risk-Free Selling & Leasing
One of our key advantages is our No Sale – No Charge platform for both sales and rentals. This means no upfront costs, no hidden charges, and
no financial risk – you only pay when we achieve a successful result.
This reflects our confidence in delivering outcomes. We consistently secure excellent, abovemarket results and have built a loyal base of clients who return to us time and again.
Proven Results, Proud History
Open six days a week with 24/7 support, Finning First National is here to help you achieve your property goals. If you’re thinking of selling or leasing, trust the team with over 70 years of results to back them up.
· Telephone: 5996 1200.
· www.firstnationalfinning.com.au
A Trusted Name in Real Estate Since 1952. Finning & Company Pty. Ltd. has been proudly serving the Cranbourne community for over 70 years.
U3A Casey – Pyrographic Art
Calling all seniors to try this unique craft. Also known as Woodburning Art, Pokerwork or Wood Burning, this artistic craft can be done on wood, leather, cork, canvas …on most things that are non-toxic.
If you’d like to give Pyrographic Art a try, then come along. It’s easy to do, it’s creative, and it’s practical and versatile. Wood is provided for free, and a pyrography tool is available for use during the first session.
After your first try out, U3A membership is $30 (July to Dec) to continue with Pyrographic Art, or to take part in any of our other 75 classes.
• When: Monday from 10am to 12noon
• Where: Lynbrook Community Centre, 2 Harris St, Lynbrook.
• Enquiries: Visit our website at www.u3acasey. org.au; Phone our office on 0493 280 458 Berwick Bridge Club
Enjoy playing cards? Are you looking for some exercise for your brain that is both fun and challenging? Berwick Bridge Club is looking for new members. There are two free beginner’s courses. One starting Friday morning 5 September from 10am to 12pm and the second one on Monday night starting 8 September from 7 to 9pm. Both courses run for 10 weeks. Lessons are held at Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House, 21A Bemersyde Drive, Berwick. No partner is required.
• To reserve your place, please phone Maree on 9702 2348.
Scrabble in Berwick
Fridays 9.30am-12.00pm at Berwick Neighbourhood Centre, 112 High Street, Berwick. Details: David, 0433 566 456.
U3A Casey – Activities for Seniors
With over 580 members and 75 different classes, U3A Casey offers you a wide range of activities including Arts & Crafts, Music, Book Clubs, Social Clubs, Low-Impact Sports, Fitness, Cooking … and many more. You can attend up to three classes for free to see if you like the classes before registering to join U3A Casey. Membership from January to December is $60, or from July to December is $30, which allows you to choose to join any of our classes (subject to available vacancies).
• For more information on classes, or to join us-
ing the online enrolment form, visit our website: u3acasey.org.au
Join us at Balla Balla Community Centre for Term 3 Health & Wellbeing classes starting in July. Choose from: Yoga/Pilates/Zumba/Mindfulness Meditation & Compassion/Music & Guided Imagery Workshop
• Term 3 enrolments open 30 June online https://ballaballa.com.au/health-wellbeing/ or phone 5990 0900.
Morning Melodies
Join us at Morning Melodies for heartwarming performances filled with the songs you know and love! Enjoy live entertainment, a cuppa, and a freshly baked scone with jam and cream - all while making new friends along the way.
• Book early to secure your spot! You won’t want to miss this uplifting morning of music and connection. Morning Melodies is held on the 2nd Tuesday each month and bookings can be made online: balla.balla.com.au or by phoning 5990 0900
U3A Cranbourne
• 20 - 22 Bowen Street, Cranbourne
We are a social group for people 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.
We also have lots of art and craft groups, calligraphy, scrabble, singing for fun, quilling, resin making, and card making are popular classes.
On Thursday afternoons from 1 - 3pm we have a lively group of table tennis players. New players welcome, no past experience needed, come along and join in the fun.
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 held at Clyde Public Hall on Monday mornings, and a gold coin donation covers hire of this venue.
• Check out all our classes at www.u3acranbourne.org.au or phone 0493 991 919 for more information
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. 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
We meet 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: facebook.com/ groups/487808127399953
Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre
Sewing Classes – Thursdays during school terms9:30-11:30am - Learn the basics of sewing and make bags and simple garments. Sew for charity. - $5 per session.
Conversational English Classes – Thursdays 9.30am-11.30am during school terms - Come along to practice and improve your English skills
in a relaxed environment comfortable, casual classes with a friendly, patient tutor - $5 per class. Intermediate Computers for Work - Thursdays during school terms 1-4pm - Build on your current computer skills and learn workplace apps such as Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook email – Contact us for fee information.
Thee Coffee Table - Welcoming women’s community group - Every Friday - 11am-2pm - Free Career & Employment Counselling for Job Seekers – alternate Wednesdays starting 7th May 9:00 am – 1:00 pm - Career counsellors from Chisholm Skills and Jobs Centre are available to work with you on writing your resume, support you to apply for jobs or help you identify your next steps in looking for work. Fortnightly by appointment – Free New Day Care Hours - NOW OPEN - 9am until 3pm. We have spots available in our nurturing and fun Day Care, which prioritises the well-being and growth of every child. Children from 2 months to 5 years can now attend from 9am until 3pm up to 5 days a week.
Call 03 5996 9056 or email mpcs@merindapark. com.au for more information or to register your child. Volunteers are welcome to come and help maintain our community garden All the above are held at Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre, 141 - 147 Endeavour Drive, Cranbourne North 3977. For more information and bookings, call - 5996 9056
Narre Warren Senior Citizens Centre
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
Downsize to Officer Lifestyle
Over-50s looking to downsize in Melbourne’s south-east have one last chance to secure a home at Officer Lifestyle Estate, with the community inviting guests to attend its final open inspections before selling out.
Located just ten minutes from Pakenham, the over 50s community, developed by land lease operator Lincoln Place, has steadily grown into a flourishing hub for those seeking both independence and connection.
Life at Officer Lifestyle Estate is defined by
NEWS
choice. Residents can enjoy resort-style amenities including a clubhouse, pool, gym, library, bowling green and pickleball court, or simply relax in the comfort of their low-maintenance home. Many also take part in resident-led activities, with an active social committee, book clubs and community bus, creating a sense of community that newcomers quickly feel part of.
Interest is strong as the community enters its final release, with homes selling quickly.
To help prospective buyers experience the
lifestyle for themselves, New Homes Advisor Nicki Bishop hosts monthly Open for Inspections on the first Thursday of each month.
Visitors are invited to tour the estate, meet the team, and enjoy complimentary morning tea and coffee.
The homes themselves are designed with ease and comfort in mind. Low-maintenance layouts, modern finishes, and welcoming outdoor areas make downsizing not just practical, but enjoyable. It’s an environment where people can focus
less on upkeep and more on the things they love. Two-bedroom homes start from $537,500 such as the popular Oregon and Monterey designs. With its enviable location, welcoming atmosphere and limited homes remaining, Officer Lifestyle Estate is offering over-50s one last opportunity to join a well-established and vibrant community.
The next Open for Inspection at Officer will be held on Thursday 2 October. To learn more, visit https://www.lincolnplace.com.au/community/ officer-lifestyle-estate/
Families celebrate Father’s Day together across region
By Violet Li
Families across Casey South came together to celebrate Father’s Day with a range of events that highlighted community, connection, and fun for dads and kids alike.
In Clyde North, around 250 attendees joined the annual Man with a Pram event on Sunday 7 September at Banjo Park, a significant increase from last year’s turnout of just 30.
Organiser Maya Pinn, from the SWAN Cobbers program, said the event drew more than 400 families registering overall and was a vibrant multicultural celebration.
“It was really nice to have lots of different cultures and religions, and backgrounds together,” Ms Pinn said.
“There were a lot of dads and grandfathers, which is awesome. And the kids ranged in age from tiny little babies to teenagers.”
Highlights of the day included a commu-
nity walk, children enjoying the Liberty Swing designed for kids with and without disabilities, and a free sausage sizzle offering both sausages and veggie burgers. The event was made possible through col-
laboration between four local dads’ groups— the Cranbourne Dads’ Group, the SWAN Cobbers father figures’ group, the Clyde North Dad Squad, and the Coastal Villages Dads’ Group— along with support from the City of Casey and Mirvac.
Ms Pinn emphasised that the event was more than just fun activities, aiming to support and empower fathers in their role. “It’s about promoting positive connections amongst dads and giving new dads support,” she said. “Giving dads of children with disability support as well and really inviting the dads to build their capacity for their family, being able to do things for their kids by themselves and really empowering dads.”
Earlier in the week, Devon Meadows Primary School hosted a Father’s Day breakfast on Thursday 4 September, inviting all fathers and special people from the community. School teacher Carries Butler said the event featured
egg and bacon rolls, a coffee cart, and volunteer teachers cooking for the families.
“It was a wonderful morning for the kids to kick the footy with the dads,” Ms Butler said. “They loved doing drawing with the dads and building Lego. It was a really great opportunity for the kids to connect with the special people in their lives.”
Meanwhile, The Quarters Primary School celebrated their annual Fathers and Families Picnic on Friday 5 September, enjoying perfect sunny weather.
Families shared food and snacks, while students presented gifts from the Father’s Day Stall and created heartfelt cards for their dads and special others.
“This is now the third year of our Fathers and Families Picnic, and we continue to feel grateful to be part of such a strong, supportive, and positive school community,” a school spokesperson said.
Memma’s Dance Island Party at The Drum Theatre in Dandenong!
We’re giving away 2 x family passes (4 tickets each) to the 2.30pm show on Tuesday, 23rd September 2025.
Join ARIA award-winning children’s entertainer Emma Memma for a joyful afternoon of dance, music, sign language and fun – celebrating movement, creativity and friendship!
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this magical experience!
Amity with her dad Lucas at Devon Meadows Primary School. (Stewart Chambers: 499467)
Over 50s community invites locals to tour its last remaining homes.
What it means to be a dad
By Andrew Gai
Like Mother’s Day, Father’s Day is an important day set aside to shine a spotlight on dads and honour them for their contribution within their families and the society.
Father’s Day has a long history, and it is observed in over 100 countries worldwide, on different dates and variations.
In some countries, it’s actually a Public Holiday or National Day, particularly in Europe, Asia and Samoa. But we are not there yet here in Australia.
The week leading up to Father’s Day, I felt quite spoilt, humbled and spurred on as a dad both from my family and from the community.
It started earlier in the week with a Father’s Day event at my son’s kinder.
The teachers and children put a lot of thought and effort into planning the event, which was very humbling for some of us fathers who were able to get time off work.
Upon arrival, we were ushered to “a special treatment room“ where we got our hands washed and dried, then we spent quality time doing things with our children and finished up with making a paper tie which my son ordered me to wear for the rest of the day, and I did. We felt very pampered indeed.
On Saturday morning, I attended a special Father’s Day Men’s breakfast organised by my church with an incredible guest speaker. It was a great atmosphere spending time with a couple of hundred or so men and hearing a great message on our role in society as men in the modern world and the importance of looking after the three most important pillars: spirit, soul and body.
At a personal level, Father’s Day provides an opportunity for us dads to stop and reflect on what it means to be a dad to someone, regardless of how old the child/ren may be. For me, being a dad is a privilege, and it’s a title
I cherish above all else. A couple of weeks before Father’s Day, my wife and I received a bundle of joy with the birth of our daughter, Hannah.
I recalled receiving baby Hannah from the nurse soon after birth, and for about half an hour, I sat there, just marvelling at this beautiful-precious being in my hands. It was a moment when nothing else in the world mattered.
While being a dad is joyful and a life-changing experience, it comes with a huge responsibility, when it comes to all things involved in parenting, including protecting and providing for the family.
For some of us, this may look different depending on the capacity, dynamics and living/ relationship situations.
Where possible, being there when our children need us and spending quality time with them are some of the most important roles of a dad.
This includes attending kinder/school events or sporting matches. I must admit I
AUDREY BRIDGET DAVIDS
late of Unit 61/10 Warrandyte Road, Langwarrin, retired, deceased.
Creditors, next-of-kin, and all others having claims in respect of the abovenamed deceased, who died on 26 January 2025, are required by the trustee, Ferriel Cresswell, care of Sharma Solicitors and Conveyancers, 70–72 High Street, Cranbourne, Victoria 3977, to send particulars of such claims to the trustee, care of the undermentioned solicitors, by 10 October 2025, after which date the trustee may convey or distribute the estate, having regard only to the claims of which the trustee then has notice.
don’t make it to all of my children’s special events, but whenever I have attended, it meant so much to them, and that’s what makes me want to attend all of their events.
Stronger relationships and long-lasting memories are created from spending quality time with our children and being there for them at the most important moments, if not always.
I was struck by the gift I received from my four-year-old son, which he made at kinder. It’s essentially a soccer field on a piece of wood, and it has me and him made of stones with a simple tag which reads: “playing soccer with dad”. Again, a lot of thought and effort went into making such a gift, so many thanks to the kind teachers.
It’s a gift that means so much to me as it brings back lots of memories playing soccer with him and endlessly debating who is the GOAT between Messi (my favourite player) and Cristiano Ronaldo (his favourite player).
We live in an ever-evolving world, which requires some adjustments in how some of us
dads view the role of a dad, probably informed by our upbringing.
My dad did his very best during his time, and I’m forever grateful for his influence on me. However, how my dad brought me up in Africa is very different in many aspects from how I am raising my children now in Australia, in the West.
So I encourage fellow dads who may have been in a similar position to embrace the challenge of adjusting to the changing family dynamics and duties in the West or in the modern world.
Not everyone had a positive childhood experience with their dads, and it is very important to acknowledge the long-lasting impact of such experiences.
But now we all have the opportunity and privilege to have a turn in raising the next generation.
While parenting roles and family dynamics have changed over time, there is still a long way to go in Australia when it comes to support systems and incentives for fathers.
There is more work to do in a policy sense and the employment sector, particularly around parental leave and flexible work arrangements, so fathers can be around when needed by the family, especially attending children’s special events and assisting with parenting duties.
In terms of support, men and fathers need support more than ever, with mental health and wellbeing on top of the list at the moment. This is where it is crucial for men to stay connected to their support network and to seek external support when needed. Some of the support networks/sources may be a local men’s shed, fathers’ group, extended family, support service or other like settings within local communities.
I wish every father all the very best in their day-to-day fathering roles.
Happy Father’s Day 2025
Probate was granted in Victoria on 7 April 2025.
SHARMA SOLICITORS AND CONVEYANCERS, 70-72 High Street, Cranbourne, Victoria, 3977. Ph: (03) 9118 2050
Andrew Gai in Tooradin. (File)
Casey Dee-nied by Dolphins
By Jonty Ralphsmith
A 20-minute period of poor footy buried Casey Demons at a packed Kinetic Stadium on Saturday night.
The Demons conceded six straight goals either side of halftime to fall behind by 42 points and the margin proved too great to overcome as Casey fell 16.5(101) to 13.12(90) against an inspired Frankston playing for their first preliminary final berth in 28 years.
Casey got back into the game in the later stages of the third quarter, dominating territory in stoppage time and probably deserved to be closer than 26 points at the last break.
They kicked four of the first five goals of the last term, though, to get it back within a kick and Paddy Cross had a chance to level the scores at the 22-minute-mark but hit the woodwork.
Frankston ‘Fothergill-Round-Mitchell Medal’ contender Tom Blamires extended the Dolphins’ margin to 11 points at the 25-minute-mark of the last quarter, before Bailey Laurie hit back at the 28-minute-mark.
Frankston was able to hold Casey up at the ensuing centre clearance, though, before the Noble Park cult hero sealed the game from 50, bringing the crowd to their feet.
It was an unbelievable victory by the Dolphins in front of a packed house and proves the difficulty of beating them at their home fortress, given Casey has been discussed as genuine premiership contenders.
The Dees, though, will view it as a chance gone begging.
After leading by six points at quarter time, they allowed Frankston to score too easily when they went inside 50, a theme that plagued the Demons all night, with the hosts winning despite having 14 fewer inside 50s.
Injury-hobbled captain Trent Mynott was hard to contain, kicking four goals at full forward, while Cranbourne local Corey Ellison also kicked four.
Casey will also rue its poor work around stoppage; despite winning clearances by nine, they fell away at important junctures which allowed Frankston to build such a sizeable buffer on the scoreboard.
Frankston’s pressure and the perceived pressure from the raucous crowd also impacted Casey’s ability to play the game on its terms.
VFL-listed pair Mitch Hardie and Riley Baldi both worked exceptionally hard, with Hardie the most consistent across four quarters, finishing with 23 disposals, nine tackles and three goals.
Tom Campbell had some important moments in the ruck and used his experience to his advantage to finish with 47 hitouts and 24 disposals, while Jai Culley spent time on the wing and finished with three goals.
Noble Park’s Wardell Lual intercepted and pressured well across halfback, taking a teamhigh seven marks and had some important oneon-one wins as Casey threatened to come back.
Frankston will now take on Southport in the first preliminary final, while Footscray and Box Hill will fight it out in the second grand final qualifier.
Hot Hawks now one step away after Rowville runs riot
By David Nagel
Rowville is just one win away from a place in the Eastern Premier Division grand final after sweeping aside East Ringwood with a barnstorming final term on Sunday.
Leading by 14 points at the final break the Hawks turned on the turbos, kicking 8.5 to 1.0 in the last quarter to put the first semi-final to bed.
After defeating South Croydon by seven points in last week’s elimination final, the Hawks are now one step away from the big dance after a commanding 14.12(96) to 4.11(35) triumph.
The Hawks were terrific at Jubilee Park, with
the two Lachie’s - McDonald and Wynd - contributing three goals each while the hard-working Matt Davey and Tyler Edwards chimed in with a couple each.
Rowville had winners all over the park with Liam Coghlan, Callum Verrell and Jesse Eickhoff joining McDonald, Edwards and Davey on an impressive list of best players.
The Hawks will now need to butter up off a six-day break and take on Blackburn at Beaconsfield this Saturday in the preliminary final.
Blackburn - who finished top of the ladderproved no match for Balwyn in the second semifinal, who won 13.13(91) to 6.8(44) to book the
home changeroom for this year’s grand final at Bayswater.
Jack Tillig kicked three for the Tigers, while Steven Slimming, Lachie Young and Ben Freeman were among the better players on the ground.
EASTERN PREMIER
Results: Second Semi-Final: Blackburn 6.8(44) def by Balwyn 13.13(91). First Semi-Final: East Ringwood 4.11(35) def by Rowville 14.12(96).
Finals Fixture - Week 3 (Saturday 13 September at Beaconsfield). Preliminary Final: Blackburn (1) v Rowville (4).
Wounded Eagles hope to fly back to top division in Southern
By Blair Burns CRANBOURNE
· Coach: Angelo Soldatos
· Season Record: 3-15
· Most Goals: Zak Roscoe (25)
Cranbourne has a long and rich history and being relegated from Southern Division 1 was not how the club imagined season 2025 panning out.
Not only did the Eagles miss finals for the first time since joining the Southern League, but they won just three games for the year.
Since the move to Southern, the Eagles had been among the most successful clubs in the league, winning the 2022 Division 1 premiership in their first year in the competition, runner-up the following season and losing a semi-final in 2024.
But after struggling on-field this season, they were relegated to Division 2 and will now embark on a journey back to the top division.
First-year senior coach Angelo Soldatos, who has been re-appointed for next season, said the team’s on-field performances weren’t up to scratch.
“It’s disappointing, we started the season okay in terms of performance but never really got going,” he said.
“We had a few good wins and some good patches, but that was about it really.”
The season is now over for the Eagles and there is no point dwelling on the relegation, with Soldatos shifting his focus towards 2026 with a great sense of optimism.
“The fact that almost every player has resigned has certainly made it easier to deal with, because you know what you are getting into now,”
he said.
“The playing group is sticking together and we are looking to get better, as opposed to trying to
maintain ground … if we had lost a heap of players because we were going down, it would be a different story.
“It is probably the one positive of the year and is a decent endorsement of what the club has been doing.”
Soldatos said the goal was to get back to Division 1 as soon as possible, adding that the upkeep of standards would be the focus.
“All we have spoken about is going down to Division 2 and behaving like a Division 1 club, with training and setting the standards,” he said.
There is no doubt recruitment will fill a big part of the off-season for Cranbourne as they look to strengthen the midfield and forward line.
But Soldatos said it was important to retain players in order to achieve sustained success, as depth and competition for spots are also important.
“It gives us a lot of positivity, even talking to recruits, assistant coaches, sponsors and all the rest of it,” he said.
“It clearly wasn’t the year we wanted but it’s not all doom and gloom, (player retention) has been a decent selling point for the club.”
Three wins doesn’t quite do Cranbourne justice for the season it had, losing seven games by 25 points or less, and the side uncovered plenty of young stars in the process.
“We had young guys play really good roles throughout the year,” Soldatos said.
“Whether they had good moments or games, enough of them showed they will be senior players which was pleasing.”
Tom Freyer was the most significant of these, playing as a key defender for the first time in his young career, and earning a spot in the best on eight occasions.
Cranbourne is looking to make its mark in Division 2 next year with strong player retention and recruitment efforts. (Rob Carew: 469859)
Wardell Lual and Casey have been knocked out of the preliminary final. (Gary Sissons: 499252)
Workhorse Matt Davey was everywhere for Rowville in its first semi-final win over East Ringwood. (Rob Carew: 475447)
Panthers chase maiden flag
By Blair Burns
When asked to describe his emotions after the MPFNL Division 2 preliminary final victory over Pearcedale in one word, “proud” came to mind for Devon Meadows coach Ryan Hendy.
The Panthers have already made history, making the grand final for the first time in 28 long years – just their second time reaching the big stage since the club was first established in 1977.
They will have the chance to rewrite history once more and turn their incredible 2025 season into the club’s first-ever senior premiership when they take on Frankston Bombers at Kinetic Stadium this Saturday.
But they know the job isn’t finished.
“It’s great getting to a grand final but it kind of means nothing if you don’t win them in my opinion,” Hendy said.
“But I am so proud of the boys and their efforts, they deserve to be playing this week and I hope they can get the ultimate success, because they deserve it.”
“It’s very pleasing to see everyone who has put a lot into the club over the years get a bit of reward for that.”
Frankston Bombers have been the benchmark team of the competition all year and have beaten Devon Meadows on both occasions, by 39 points in round 7 and 11 points in the semi-final.
How did the Panthers get here? One short victory away from the biggest moment in the club’s history.
Rewind seven weeks ago, Panthers’ clutch young gun Jack Wilson is going back for a kick after the siren to win the game against Seaford – he was ice cold and slotted it.
Wilson and Hendy both spoke about how much the win meant in the context of the season, but nobody knew it would mean this much.
“If we don’t kick that goal, then we aren’t playing this week … it has been a rollercoaster ride,” he said.
MORNINGTON PENINSULA FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE DIVISION 2 - GRAND FINAL PREVIEW
ably more belief than we have taken out of any of our wins, as funny as that may seem,” Hendy said.
“We went away and did reviews on that game, we felt like there were some areas we can improve and we missed some opportunities.
“Going into this week, we will be a lot better prepared to throw a few different things at them.”
Devon Meadows ruck Arnold Kirby is coming off a dominant performance against Pearcedale and was looking forward to the challenge against Frankston’s Harry Prior, who is expected to return from a knee injury.
“He said to me after the game that he can’t wait for this week to get a go at Harry Prior, he definitely wants him to play,” Hendy said.
“A fair few people were saying that if Prior plays, it is Frankston’s game to lose, and big Arnold has taken that a bit personally.”
Despite a bruised heel which clearly caused James Frawley some great discomfort last week, he still managed four goals and will play in the grand final.
It is yet to be seen how the team will shape up after second ruck Riley Simmons missed last week’s clash with a knock on his previously fractured leg.
“He isn’t completely over the line yet (to play) because we were pretty impressed with the side we put out on the weekend,” Hendy said.
“So, whether we decide to go down the path with two rucks or not, we are still undecided.”
Frankston Bombers’ captain Khan Haretuku will be a big presence and likely have a huge say on the outcome of the game.
It wasn’t just that game, it was the final five games of the home and away season which propelled them into finals contention – winning four of those by under two goals.
“We’ve fed off the vibe and energy of it and I think we have gotten better every week,” Hendy said.
Wins against Chelsea and Pearcedale in the final two games meant that they made finals by percentage, even getting the double chance –now the Panthers are on the verge of achieving greatness.
Hendy chasing fairtyale finish with Devon Meadows
By Blair Burns
Devon Meadows is looking to send coach Ryan Hendy off with a premiership after the respected coach announced that he will step down from the role following Saturday’s MPFNL Division 2 grand final.
Hendy has spent four years building the side up to what it has now become and while they go into the clash against Frankston Bombers as underdogs, he has helped this group to believe that they can make history.
“It’s been an emotional ride coaching for four years … I just know that I need a rest,” he said.
“I just remember when I played, if I had a coach for longer than four years, the message starts to get a little bit repetitive and it’s only fair to the group that I pass on the baton.
“We have a really good coach in waiting with Dean Kent (who is already co-coach).”
Hendy said it had been amazing to see the
growth of the side over the past four years and hoped the team could cap it off with a fairytale finish, and the club’s first ever senior premiership.
“They hadn’t played finals in about 20 years when I got there and we have played finals every year since,” he said.
“We felt there was maybe a year or two in that four years where we possibly could’ve had a real chance, but we just didn’t put in the performances required to win a final.
“We have given ourselves the best chance this year and it would mean the world for me to finish off like that.”
Having a break from coaching was something that Hendy was looking forward to, which included putting more time into other things.
“I won’t say that I won’t coach again, I just need that year off to freshen up,” he said.
“I will be able to put a bit more time into my young fella who will be in the under-15s next year.”
Despite losing to Frankston Bombers by 11 points a fortnight ago, the match gave the team plenty of optimism that they can upset the premiership favourites.
“The belief we took out of that game was prob-
The big man had 27 disposals, 56 hitouts and 11 marks when the teams met a few weeks ago, and was probably the difference between winning or losing.
The match will kick off from 2.30pm at Kinetic Stadium in Frankston, can the Panthers make history? Only time will tell.
Huge honour for hero Hillis
By Blair Burns
Devon Meadows co-captain and midfield gun Joel Hillis has taken out the George Osborne Medal for the second consecutive year in MPFNL Division 2.
Hillis polled 25 votes this year after winning the award in a tie last season with 27 votes.
It has never been about individual accolades for the humble star, and it never will be.
While he was honoured to receive the award,he was quick to shift the focus to his team.
“(It was) not the main goal, hopefully we can tick that one off this Saturday, but I am also very grateful to be recognised amongst such a talented group of players,” he said.
“I think I’ve had a good consistent year compared to last year, where I had some massive games but then the odd below-par game.”
Hillis leads by example, putting his body on the line and courageously giving his team an inspirational lift each week.
“For a captain, I’m probably not the best group speaker so I look to my co-captain Nick Battle to help me out a fair bit with that, but it’s definitely something I’m slowly getting better at,” he said.
“I would say my leadership is more talking
individually with teammates, trying to lead from the front on game days and training at a high standard.”
Hillis went back-to-back in the vote count, but it was a different feeling this year … sitting at the table drinking water, with the premiership cup still up for grabs.
“This year has honestly been amazing, to be running out in the club’s first senior grand final in 28 years, with such a great group of mates and a club that I love,” he said.
“Losing a fair group of senior players from the previous year, it was a bit of an unknown how we would go, but we definitely had belief going into the season that we could be thereabouts.
“We have built an environment where everyone is loving their footy and willing to work hard for each other … to win on Saturday would be a dream come true.”
The Panthers superstar was also named as the captain of the Division 2 Team of the Year, as a starting midfielder for the side, while his dynamic duo in Battle was named on the interchange.
There were also four Pearcedale players to make the team including Cruiz West (forward pocket), Brett Eddy (full forward), Huw Jones and Kaolan Thornton (both interchange).
Joel Hillis went back-to-back in the MPFNL Division 2 vote count, winning with 25 votes. (Stewart Chambers: 497918)
Devon Meadows defender Dylan Gregson will play another important role this weekend. (Stewart Chambers: 501168)
Devon Meadows coach Ryan Hendy is hoping to finish his coaching tenure on a high this weekend. (Stewart Chambers: 501168)
Redbacks ready for climax
By Blair Burns
Luke Bull and his Hampton Park teammates will drift off to sleep on Friday night with dreams of holding the Southern Division 2 premiership cup aloft the following afternoon.
But the Redbacks will hope they don’t see any visions of Chelsea Heights’ forward duo Erishmiilan Uthayakumar and Jesse Murphy kicking goals...which could easily take the form of a nightmare.
Hampton Park is hoping to replicate its incredible effort from six years ago, when both the reserves and seniors were crowned as Division 3 premiers – both teams are once again vying for the ultimate success.
However, another formidable opponent stands in the Redbacks’ way, the only opponent in the league that they are yet to beat this season … Chelsea Heights, who advanced after beating Highett by 34 points in the preliminary final on the weekend.
The Redbacks were minor premiers this year and dropped just four games for the entire season, but two of them came against the Demons, by 36 points and 33 points.
Redbacks’ coach Bull said he and his team were keen to take the field in the hope of getting one back on the Demons.
“It’s going to be a good game, the crowd will get behind us and that is all we play footy for, days like this, so we aren’t taking the opportunity lightly,” he said.
“We trained Saturday and had a decent session again like we did the other week when we had it off, so that was good.
“Then we went down to the Chelsea Heights v Highett game, it was nice to watch them playing and have a good look at our opposition.”
Bull added that there was a great vibe around the whole club, with many teams experiencing great success in 2025 thus far.
“Our twos only lost one game for the year and are in the grand final as well, so we are pretty proud of them,” he said.
“I always say that your twos are the backbone of your success as a club overall and it’s awesome to see both teams really thriving at the moment.
“The whole club is thriving, the netballers won six out of seven grand finals on the weekend, so hopefully we can join them in winning two footy premierships.”
REDBACKS REDEMPTION?
Despite having not beaten Chelsea Heights this season, Bull and his side wanted a shot at knocking off the Demons and are confident that their best footy stacks up.
“We wanted to play them as they have beaten us the last two times … we are looking forward to getting another crack at them,” he said.
“Both games have probably been our two worst games for the year, but credit to them, they played well and got off to a good start both times.
“We have a fair few blokes in our side with good finals experience, half of the side has played in a fair few grand finals, so I don’t think there will be any nerves there.”
Given their easy path to the grand final, Hampton Park probably goes into the game as the slight favourite, with second-placed Chelsea Heights taking the long way to the big dance.
The Demons lost to Highett by six points in the first week of finals, before bouncing back to beat Mordialloc by 43 points, and turning the tables against Highett to win by 34 points last week.
Whereas, the Redbacks have only had to play the one final, also against Highett which resulted in a 24-point victory.
SLOW STARTS
The start will be crucial for Hampton Park’s winning chances, having been jumped in both previous outings against the Demons.
Chelsea Heights has outscored the Redbacks 65-10 in first quarters and have a combined winning margin of 69 points, so the slow starts have ultimately been the difference.
“If we can eliminate those poor starts and get off to a really good one, then they are going to be in trouble I think,” he said.
“We are a strong finishing side and we don’t lose many second halves, I think it will be a battle won in the midfield to be honest.”
The Redbacks are known for their offensive firepower, ranked first in the league, but they are ranked fourth defensively.
“We will be really defensively-minded going into this game, if we take care of the defensive
SOUTHERN FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE DIVISION 2 - GRAND FINAL PREVIEW
side of the game, the attractive side of football really takes care of itself,” Bull said.
RUCK AND ROLL
Mason Hawkins will come back into the side for the grand final to join ruck partner Jye King, who is coming off a mammoth outing where he had 27 disposals, 45 hitouts, 13 clearances and 211 ranking points.
“We have pretty much a full list to pick from, so it will make my job difficult at selection,” Bull said.
“Mason is cherry ripe, so we will have arguably the best two ruckmen in the comp in our team so they are a pretty formidable duo.
“Kingy is in insane form, he keeps levelling up and is really enjoying his footy at the moment.”
Hampton Park’s stars stood up in the qualifying final against Highett, but can the likes of Dylan Morris, Makaio Haywood and Trent Thomas all deliver once more on the biggest stage?
PLAYERS TO WATCH
#4 Trent Thomas (Hampton Park) – Hasn’t gone goalless for the entire year, a dynamic player who hits the scoreboard. He is coming off arguably his best game of the season, where he kicked four goals and single-handedly sunk Highett’s premiership aspirations. A big-game player. #36 Jye King (Hampton Park) – While Mason Hawkins started the year as the main ruck, injury saw King take over the ruck duties and he has gotten better every week. He puts up ridiculous numbers and also helps the Redbacks out in
Redbacks’ ruck Jye King had 211 ranking points last week against
and will look to dominate once again.
defence. The big man has been in the best in 10 of his past 11 matches.
#2 Liam Frazer (Chelsea Heights) – A new recruit to the club this year who has significantly strengthened the team’s midfield stocks and made a big impact on the scoreboard, with 24 goals to his name – he has also been named in the best 12 times. He kicked a season-high four goals against the Redbacks last time they met.
Fixture - Grand Final: Saturday 13 September. Hampton Park v Chelsea Heights at Springvale Reserve, 2.15pm.
Just one win stands between Hampton Park and premiership glory. (Gary Sissons: 499251)
Jayden Weichard has been one of Hampton Park’s most consistent performers in recent weeks. (499251)
Highett
(499251)
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