News - Pakenham Officer Star News - 4th September 2025

Behind every good blokes event is this group of women Call for more care

may have been all about the boys - and more particularly the health of their prostates - but let’s face it, the iconic event wouldn’t happen without the girls.

A crowd of 500 crammed into the function centre at Gumbuya World on Friday 29 August for the 10th event, aimed at raising money and awareness of the insidious killer.

They heard from champion jockey Damien Oliver and former Australian cricketer and commentator Damien Fleming. MC was former Hawthorn star and radio personality Daniel Harford.

The blokes were waited on throughout the day by a willing band of volunteers, who all look forward to the annual event.

Turn to page 4 for full details

By Corey Everitt

Funding for at-home meal support programs for people suffering from eating disorders has been recommended by the State Coroner in response tothetragicsuicideofabeloveddaughterafteran extended battle with anorexia nervosa.

On Wednesday, the Coroners Court of Victoria released the findings into the death of Olivia Evans.

The 15-year-old from Pakenham died at the Royal Children’s Hospital in 2023 after ingesting a lethal dose of paracetamol.

Before her death, she had been undergoing

treatment for anorexia nervosa with Monash Children’s Hospital.

The inquest into her death looked into her distressed response to treatment that involved medical and psychiatric approaches to her recurring admissions to the hospital.

Opinions sought by Coroner Simon McGregor

pointed to leading examples across the world in the treatment of eating disorders amid ongoing work to bolster early intervention across Victoria since Ms Evans’ death.

MC Daniel Harford and guest speakers Damien Fleming and Damien Oliver catch up with the Cardinia Casey Biggest Ever Blokes Lunch volunteers, from left, Di Tracey, Gaylene Howe, Jackie Connolly, Ann Selby, Nicole Membrey, Kylie Kimberley, Alison McDougal, Kerry Howe, Di Price, Rosie Webster, Nicole Rogers, Kellie Nagel and Donna Fromhold. (Stewart Chambers)

The Cardinia Casey Biggest Ever Blokes Lunch

Shock rise in drownings

By Corey Everitt

Drownings across Australia have increased by a fourth compared to the last decade’s average, putting into relief the most vulnerable of the community, as multicultural and older residents each represent a third of all deaths.

Royal Life Saving Society Australia (RLSS) has released its annual National Drowning Report for 2025, finding that 357 people drowned in Australia over the last 12 months, a 27 per cent increase compared to the 10-year average.

The highest demographics represented in the deaths were adults over the age of 65 and members of multicultural communities, where the country of birth was known.

They each made up 33 per cent of all deaths.

Older Australians saw the largest increase of 48 per cent compared to the ten-year average, 65 years and older have the highest drowning rate of all age groups of 2.51 per 100,000.

Longtime resident of Pakenham, Anne Dunn has not been comfortable in the water most of her life due to a traumatic experience swimming when she was a child.

She has had to get into the water more later in life with aquatic exercise at Cardinia Life through her involvement with the Pakenham Arthritis Self Help Group.

Still, there is a certain water level that she finds hard to cross and she has seen other older members of the community uncomfortable in the water.

“It’s important for the older generation as well to have that support,” she said.

Older Australians have different factors to consider around the water, such as unique health conditions or limited mobility.

Maintaining strength in the water and providing equipment like life jackets, particularly in coastal settings, is a direction Ms Dunn suggests.

“Having the ability to save yourself, even if you could swim. If you’ve got specific conditions,

that’s why I think it’s so important to, if you’re in that position, to have life jackets,“ Ms Dunn said.

“I think they’re the things that people in our position need to be aware of and focus.“

Of drownings 65 years and over, 84 per cent were male. Of all drownings, 81 per cent were male.

RLSS declared it a major priority to promote water safety skills and tailored prevention measures for older Australians.

The vast majority of drownings occurred on the coast or in inland waterways.

The report highlighted social disparities; one in ten children who had never attended a swim lesson were mostly from low socio-economic backgrounds.

A key direction marked by RLSS is to continue

a localised focus on safety, providing local groups and planning to advocate and deliver water safety programs in their communities.

The report also reiterated a commitment to developing programs targeting multicultural communities to teach water safety to adults, which was first initiated in Victoria at Cardinia Life last year and remains a growing program across the State.

Organiser of the original Safely Engaging with Water Program, Harpreet Singh said there must be continued focus on children of all backgrounds.

“Schools need to invest more in the swimming curriculum,“ he said.

“Kids need to motivate parents to learn swimming, especially in multicultural communities.

“Parents need to understand and engage with

water safety to make sure holidays are enjoyable, safer and memorable for good reasons. Everyone is urging that parents always supervise children around water; swim on patrolled beaches between flags and check the conditions while planning aquatic activities, including weather forecasts.“

Overall, RSLL asserted that continued targeting of primary and secondary school ages is a priority of the plan to see reduced drownings by 2030. Emphasised by worrying trends that almost 40 per cent of year 10 students are estimated not to be able to swim 50 metres and float for two minutes, the national benchmark set for 12-yearolds.

Key recommendations of the report included the creation of a National Public Pool planning framework and investment program.

Cardinia Life swimming pool (File: 300832)

Zoning deadlock frustrates

By Afraa Kori

For over a decade, landowners between Peck Road and Brown Road in Pakenham have been trapped in a cycle of frustration over zoning and planning issues.

In 2013, 72 landowners sought to subdivide their land into one-acre and five-acre lots. Although the land is zoned as green wedge, poor soil quality makes it unsuitable for agriculture. Yet, residents say they have been unable to get clear answers from authorities.

East Victoria MP Renee Heath raised the issue in Parliament on 26 August, amplifying the voices of landowners of local landowners.

“For 12 years now, landowners have felt extreme frustration because when they have gone and spoken to Cardinia Shire Council, the council says that it is a State Government decision,” Heath told Parliament.

“And when they have followed up with the State Government, they have sent them back to Cardinia Shire Council.

“They said that it has been frustrating because there has been a decade of being batted between the two authorities.”

Heath called on the Minister for Planning to meet with Cardinia Shire Council to clarify responsibility for the zoning issue and provide residents with certainty over what they can do with their land.

When asked about what this means for the affected landowners moving forward, Heath said: “They’ve given Labor every opportunity to care and listen for over a decade. After retirement and life plans being held back for so long, Labor’s forcing them to vote for local care and competence at the next election”.

For Carol Moores, the sticking point is that part of her property was left outside the urban growth zone — a decision she’s never been able to make sense of.

The exclusion has left her without basic infrastructure, with unmade roads and detours turning even short trips into Pakenham into a hassle.

Moores and her neighbour Marcus recently visited council to ask why, after all these years, there is still no strategic plan.

Later, after finding out the planner’s name, she felt a little hope which was quickly crushed.

Resident’s scorn at mail half-delivery in Pakenham

By Corey Everitt

A local resident is checking his mailboxes with haste, after he was left irritated by his important letters delivered only halfway into his mailbox.

John, a resident of Falling Water Estate, has been eagerly waiting for mail regarding a critical surgery he has to undergo and he was alarmed recently to find letters hanging out of his mailbox. He is concerned that the day the important mail comes, it may be exposed to the elements, or even worse, snatched right out of the box.

John said letters left halfway have happened before, despite the mailbox being easy to access.

He raised his concerns with AusPost, saying that such delivery risks the letter being soaked and unreadable or taken entirely.

He believes such measures should not occur at least in the rainy months of winter, consider-

ing the critical importance some mail can have for residents.

AusPost follows up specific cases like John’s and a spokesperson said proper training is always given to posties.

“Australia Post takes seriously its responsibility to deliver mail. Rain, hail or shine, our posties must deal with a number of challenges and conditions as they deliver for the community,“ they said.

“Posties receive education and training on how to deliver mail as part of their induction.

Factors that may prevent a postie from fully inserting a letter into a letterbox include space of the slot for letters to go in, size of the envelope, and how much mail or advertising material is already in or needs to be placed into the letterbox.“

“I was given the name of the fellow in charge of planning, so I rang council to ask for an appointment,” Moore said.

“Council told me, ‘you can’t talk to him, we don’t give appointments’. So where do we get answers then?”

It is the latest chapter in what she describes as years of unanswered efforts.

“We’re not rural, residential, or anything —

we’re just completely ignored,“ Moores said.

“I’ve spent years writing letters. We even had a company draw up a plan, but they’ve ignored it all.”

Although Moores says she doesn’t want to give up, her health has suffered.

“My health has given up. The stress, the stroke. I’m just too old for this fight. I can’t keep up with this anymore.

“The government destroyed our efforts to provide for ourselves. I’ve got nothing now; they’re just whittling me away.”

Responding to landowner concerns, Debbie Tyson, General Manager of Community and Planning Services, clarified council’s position on Green Wedge zoning and the urban growth boundary.

”As part of our submission to Plan Victoria in August 2024, Council was seeking clarification on the role of Plan Victoria in affirming the urban growth boundary and whether the Minister for Planning would consider requests from landowners to realign the urban growth boundary,” Tyson said.

“Plan Victoria, which was approved in early 2025, affirmed the State Government’s position that there will be no change to the urban growth boundary. As a result, Council cannot support any rezoning or applications to increase the subdivision potential of Green Wedge land or move the location of the UGB.”

According to council, the area referred to is outside of the State Government urban growth boundary (UGB) for Metropolitan Melbourne and within a Green Wedge Zone.

Amending the urban growth boundary (UGB) and zoning of green wedge land to allow increased subdivision potential can only be enabled by the Minister for Planning and must be ratified by both Houses of Parliament.

AusPost. (Joel Carrett/AAP)

MP Renee Heath. (Supplied)

Let’s do lunch next year

By Garry Howe

Organising committee chairman Dan O’Loughlin shared a sobering fact when welcoming a record crowd to Friday’s 10th Cardinia Casey Biggest Ever Blokes Lunch.

O’Loughlin pointed out that in the past three events at Gumbuya World, someone was missing from the year before.

Their lives lost, far too early, to cancer.

In 2023 Denise Davidson spoke about the loss of her brother Norm Henwood and last year Star News Group managing director Paul Thomas shared the battle of his great mate Bruce Ellen. Both were Biggest Ever Blokes Lunch regulars lost to prostate cancer – and Bruce kicked off similar events in the Latrobe Valley and Sale.

This year Nicole Hee reflected upon the loss of her husband Rodney, who over the past few years had organised a table of mates from The Central Hotel in Beaconsfield.

She said it was one of his favourite days of the year and he managed to attend the previous year’s event, even though gravely ill.

O’Loughlin challenged the 500 strong crowd to buck the tragic trend and help ensure there was no-one missing from next year’s event.

He took a poll of the room, through raised hands, and was encouraged that most in the

room had made the effort to get tested over the past 12 months.

Guests were treated to a hilarious presentation from former Australian cricketer and commentator Damien Fleming, the self-pronounced sole member of the Hat-trick On Test Debut Club.

MC Daniel Harford then interviewed recently retired champion jockey Damien Oliver, who touched on highlights of his career including the famous Melbourne Cup victory on Media Puzzle only days after the death of his brother Jason from a race fall in Perth.

O’Loughlin was thrilled that the lunch had attracted a record crowd and that the feedback from patrons was overwhelmingly positive.

“The room was full and there was a great vibe,” he said.

“The lunch has become a bit of a signature event for the region and we look forward to doing it all again next year… hopefully with no-one missing this time.”

The event achieved its fundraising goal of $75,000, taking the tally over the 10 events to date to $825,000. The bulk of that will go into the coffers of the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia’s Victorian operation, with some hived off for men’s health initiatives locally through the Cardinia Foundation’s grants program.

Speaker Nicole Hee gets a hug from Gaylene Howe after her address. (493622)

Former Australian cricketer Damien Fleming entertains the big crowd. (493622)

A record crowd packed into the Gumbuya World function centre for the Cardinia Casey Biggest Ever Blokes Lunch on Friday 29 August. (Stewart Chambers: 493622)

Tim Murrowood and Paul Thomas get a laugh out of the speakers. (493622)

Champion jockey Damien Oliver donated a piece to be auctioned for the charity.

Organising committee chairman Dan O’Loughlin with Linley Watson, the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia’s Southern Region community engagement manager. (493622)

Coroner ensures a legacy

By Corey Everitt

Funding for at-home meal support programs for people suffering from eating disorders has been recommended by the State Coroner in response to the tragic suicide of a beloved daughter who had extended treatment for anorexia nervosa.

On Wednesday, the Coroners Court of Victoria released the findings into the death of Olivia Evans.

The 15-year-old from Pakenham died at the Royal Children’s Hospital in 2023 after ingesting a lethal dose of paracetamol.

Before her death, she had been undergoing treatment for anorexia nervosa with Monash Children’s Hospital.

The inquest into her death looked into her distressed response to treatment that involved medical and psychiatric approaches to her recurring admissions to the hospital.

Coroner Simon McGregor sought the opinion of Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, Professor Sloane Madden, who said Monash Children’s Hospital prioritised a medical response to Ms Evans over a joint response that included intensive psychiatric care.

Monash Health had a “delayed” response, particularly in assessing further diagnosis of other underlying conditions with Ms Evans.

Professor Madden pointed to treatment in New South Wales and Germany as leading examples, which include psychiatric-led inpatient units dedicated to treating eating disorders that accommodate family admission and outpatient services.

Developing family-based eating habits, Professor Madden said, in an inpatient setting and continuing at home was critical for treatment.

Monash Health made a response that Coroner McGregor accepted, which provided the admission that there was a delay in further assessment of Ms Evans, but noted it can be difficult to make a further diagnosis when a patient is underweight.

The response detailed extensive changes at the hospitalregardingeatingdisorderssinceMsEvans’ death, including paediatric assessments within 24

hours of admission, increasing family sessions and more targeted care to reduce readmission.

Coroner McGregor accepted that Monash Health had made an adequate response to Ms Evans’ death.

The state government’s Victorian Eating Disorder Strategy, developed last year, was supported in full by Coroner McGregor.

The strategy seeks to reduce the prevalence of eating disorders by 2031 through extending

targeted early intervention that involves alignment with broader health and well-being reforms and builds further coordination between families, carers and medical professionals.

Coroner McGregor noted that 78 per cent of carers for people with eating disorders face impacts to employment and well-being in delivering care.

Following this, Coroner McGregor recommended that the state government fund athome meal support programs for people with

We’re building big near you and there will be transport disruptions

As part of Victoria’s Big Build, construction of Suburban Rail Loop is well underway. The new underground train line will connect our growing suburbs through faster, more reliable travel. It will also support the delivery of more homes, and provide better access to jobs, schools and healthcare. While we work, disruptions could affect your travel.

Train disruptions: Buses replace trains in both directions

Cranbourne and Pakenham lines

Until 5 Sep

Between Parliament, Caulfield and Westall

From midnight until 5am, 6 SepBetween Caulfield and Westall

8 Sep to 11 Sep

Road disruptions: Closed roads

Kenilworth Avenue, Beaconsfield 7am 2 Sep to 5pm 22 Sep

Between Parliament, Caulfield and Westall as testing continues on the Metro Tunnel

Between the eastbound exit of the new Kenilworth Avenue roundabout and Coach House Lane

eating disorders.

The recommendation builds upon the advocacy of Ms Evans’ father, Robb Evans, who has called for more awareness and intervention into the prevalence of eating disorders in young people.

If you need help or support for an eating disorder or body image issue, please call the Butterfly Foundation National Helpline on 1800 334 673. Crisis support can be sought at Lifeline by calling 13 11 14.

Robb Evans with a picture of his late daughter, Olivia Evans. (338806)

Premier in Hampton Park

By Ethan Benedicto

The Bring Your Bills event in Hampton Park had a surprise visit from the Victorian Premier, Jacinta Allan, following an early morning interruption by neonazi Thomas Sewell.

The event, run by Southeast Community Links (SECL), is known for supporting Casey’s multicultural communities, many of whom are grappling with financial stress.

Speaking to a crowd of SECL volunteers and residents, Allan said that the event is “incredibly powerful”.

“I thank the organisation (SECL) not just for bringing this together, but for creating the space where people can get assistance in their community when they need it the most,” she said.

Earlier that day, Allan was holding a press conference in Eades Park, West Melbourne, with trea-

OPINION

surer Jaclyn Symes, when Sewell and an associate approached the group asking, “why don’t Australians have the right to protest?”.

Marching backwards

On 31 August 2025, waves of rallies under the banner March for Australia swept through major cities. From Melbourne to Hobart, from Canberra to Adelaide. While they painted themselves as protests against “mass immigration,” reality told a different story.

Counter-protests flooded streets, carrying signs like “Go home, racists” and “Diversity is strength”.

No, the rallies weren’t about policy; they were about division - rooted in fear, not facts. Australia’s true identity is migration. Consider these statistics:

· 31.5 per cent of Australians were born overseas - the highest share since the 1890s

· Nearly 48 per cent have at least one parent born overseas

· More than 30 per cent of doctors and allied health staff are foreign-trained

· 50.2 per cent of accountants and nearly double the rate of engineers are overseas-born

· In agriculture, migrant labour is essentialwithout it, produce rots unattended and supermarkets suffer

The immigrant community is not a burden; they are the backbone of our economy, culture, and progress. So, what exactly was March for Australia marching for - fear, division, or a false narrative?

Politicians and media keep preaching “tolerance,” but tolerance isn’t the goal - it’s the bare minimum. Tolerance means putting up with each other. That’s not unity - that’s disconnection. What we need in Australia is harmony, coexistence, peace, and acceptance - not grudging tolerance. Neo-Nazism is terrorism - not protest. We cannot sugarcoat this. When people show up dressed to intimidate others, against communities who have migrated to participate, contribute, and co-exist peacefully – it is not protest.

It is terrorism. Terrorism is the use of threats or violence to instil fear for a political or ideological cause. Racism dressed up in khakis and baseball caps is still hate. And Australia has no place for it.

The real route forward is Cultural Intelligence (CQ) Australia is changing, and so must we. Division only increases prices, disrupts systems, and erodes trust.

Education, empathy, and CQ offer unity.

We should be:

· Teaching what global migration looks like - not myth, but real numbers and realities

· Promote CQ in schools, businesses, and media - where empathy, humility, and critical thinking are taught, not just diversity slogans

· Build inclusive narratives - that acknowledge migration as core to Australian identity, not something to be fought against

· Expose fear-based politics for what they are: cheap tricks that fracture our society

In Melbourne, when heartfelt Muslims and Jews met in four locations - church halls, art galleries, town halls - they modelled peace. They built bridges where banners fell.

That is the vision of multicultural Australia - not marching with fear, but standing for connection.

Let’s be clear:

· Migration is not the problem - fear and ignorance are.

· Activism without empathy is activism against ourselves.

· CQ is not optional – it is essential. Let us become a nation of belonging, not just living side-by-side.

Let’s talk. Let’s listen. Let’s lead with intelligence.

Sala’am. Shalom. Peace be with you.

In the video covered by 9News, he can be observed being blocked by plainclothes police, before asking once more, “why do you want to ban us from protesting?”.

The premier left quickly and has since released a statement saying that she is “undeterred”, and has since labelled him and his associates “goons”.

“It comes as no surprise that Nazis oppose me and my government; I wear that with a badge of honour,” she said.

“But this isn’t about me, it’s about all the other people in the community who Nazis target, like multicultural people, LGBTQIA+ people, First Peoples and Jews.

“They’re the Victorians who are on my mind right now, and they’re the Victorians who our antihate laws will protect when they come into force later this month.”

DuringtheBringYourBillsevent,whichwasheld in the Arthur Wren Hall on Tuesday, 2 September,

Allan spoke to residents about their financial concerns, hearing from SECL’s CEO, Peter McNamara, on the importance of the event’s outreach efforts. She added that she is aware of many families and people “doing it tough”, and the event is not just a “helping hand, but also giving people the confidence to get the support they need and to help their family”.

Coming just days after anti-immigration rallies in Melbourne where neo-nazi groups led by Sewell were present, the premier’s presence at a multicultural-focused event carried symbolic weight.

“As premier, I’ll always be out and about in public fighting for you, like I am today, I am not afraid,” she said.

“We know how these goons operate; they whip up fear to divide our society, and they will fail.”

Simply put, the March for Australia is un-Australian

By Andrew Gai

Forgive me for my naivety but the people we saw at the March for Australia rallies at the weekend are not the true representation of Australia and the Australian people whom I have interacted with over the years in so many various settings; from workplace, to University, to my place of worship, to going to the footy at the MCG or going shopping at my local shopping centres.

It was sad to see the way that the people conducted themselves at the “so-called March for Australia” at the weekend.

I’m appalled by the misrepresentation of the Australian flag at these rallies.

These groups may have legitimate concerns but they went about it in a very unAustralian way.

Australia is an egalitarian nation and all Australians should stand for equality for all people.

Other important values that define the Australian society are: “tolerance”, “fair go” and “compassion for those in need” including those in need of refuge.

The Australia that these people pretend to be representing is not the Australia I took an oath for when I became an Australian citizen more than 15 years ago.

The Australian Pledge for Citizenship reads: “From this time forward, under God, I pledge my loyalty to Australia and its people, whose democratic beliefs I share, whose rights and liberties I respect, and whose laws I will uphold and obey”.

None of the actions at the protest at the weekend came anywhere closer to the above pledge.

If these people care about this state, the organisers would have called off the protest, particularly in a week when our police community is in mourning and police resources stretched to the limit due to the ongoing manhunt in the North-East of the state.

But sadly, they went ahead and not only that, there were grieve-triggering flags being waved at the protest, particularly the one belonging to the “sovereign citizens” which the alleged killer of two police officers, Dezi Freeman is reportedly part of.

Also, there was a man holding a placard with an image of Dezi Freeman at the Adelaide march.

Australia has a strong and successful multicultural story which is why so many people from around the world are choosing to come to Australia for whatever reasons.

Having a responsible immigration policy is an important part of this successful multicultural story.

The federal government has taken steps to manage immigration responsibly as well as putting in place measures, e.g. housing policy

to alleviate pressure on local services and resources.

According to an article published on the ABC in March this year, figures show that “Australia’s net migration is actually receding at a rate of 100,000 people per year since peaking at 536,000 in 2022-23. That rate is enough for a swift return to pre-pandemic levels”.

It’s very important to note that we need people to come here because it is good for the Australian economy, whether they are coming to study (with education being one of Australia’s biggest exports – bringing in billions of dollars each year) or fill in vacant jobs in so many areas where there is workforce shortage, particularly in Aged Care, Health Care and some technical roles.

Political leaders, particularly, leaders of the parties at all levels of government need to publicly condemn such movements and their dangerous ideologies which are counter-productive to a society aspiring to be a role model for a socially cohesive society.

To every young Australian who is an immigrant or a child of an immigrant parent/s, you are Australian from the day you took an oath to become Australian citizen or the day you were born in this country.

No one should tell you otherwise.

Being an Australian is not measured by someone’s skin colour or how long someone’s family has been in Australia for.

But it is about living in accordance with the above-mentioned pledge and values.

Australia is better than this.

Australian people are better than this. March for Australia groups do not represent who we really are.

Premier Jacinta Allan, right, with South East Community Links’ operations coordinator Christina at a Bring Your Bills event on 2 September. (Stewart Chambers: 497373)

Andrew Gai.

FOCUS ON … SENIORS

Lifestyle Ridgelea awaits

Exciting things are happening in Melbourne’s south-east with the arrival of Lifestyle Ridgelea, the newest community from Lifestyle Communities, located in the growing hub of Pakenham. Created for independent downsizers, Ridgelea offers country charm with city convenience, combining architecturally designed, low-maintenance homes with a vibrant, resort-style lifestyle.

To mark the Grand Opening of the Clubhouse, Lifestyle Ridgelea is inviting the public to join the celebrations on Saturday 20th September 2025, from 11am to 3pm. Bring the whole family to explore the display homes and take a tour of the Clubhouse precinct. Enjoy live music, food trucks and barista-made coffee as you experience the lifestyle first-hand.

This is a purpose-driven community designed to help over-50s reimagine how they live — by right-sizing into a home that unlocks capital and opens the door to more possibilities.

Visit lifestylecommunities.com.au or call 1300 50 55 60 to register your interest or simply come along on the day.

From 2026, free weekend travel for older Victorians

Council on the Ageing (COTA) Victoria and Seniors Rights Victoria (SRV) has welcomed a recent announcement by the Victorian government to make public transport free for older Victorians during weekends.

Announced recently the Victorian government has pledged to make all weekend public transport free for older people from 1 January 2026. This will replace a current scheme in which valid Seniors Card holders can travel between two neighbouring zones at no cost.

“We welcome this initiative, and hope it to be the first of many that directly address the very urgent need for cost-of-living reductions

for older Victorians,” said CEO of COTA Victoria and Seniors Rights Victoria Ben Rogers.

“The expansion of free public transport will save those who travel up to $360 per year,” Mr Rogers continued.

“While this will help to ease pressures being faced by one of our state’s most vulnerable cohorts, far more needs to be done.”

It’s important for older Victorians to remember that they’ll need to hold a valid Seniors Card and continue touching on and off as normal using their Senior Myki when the free weekend public transport initiative commences.

Access to affordable transport is not just a convenience, it’s essential for social inclusion, independence, and overall wellbeing in later life. Without targeted support, many older people risk becoming isolated.

“We’re hearing from older Victorians that public transport costs can be a barrier to staying properly connected with their communities,” said Mr Rogers.

“As people age, that connection becomes even more important. The rising cost of living is making it harder.

“Older Victorians have made their thoughts

clear on social connectivity as part of a survey we’ve recently distributed,” he said, “and will have another opportunity to directly speak their mind at an in-person forum that we’ll hold later in June.

“As part of our ongoing commitment to better represent and inform older Victorians, we’ll be analysing tomorrow’s budget documents as soon as they’re available,” Mr Rogers said.

“We’re hopeful to see initiatives that will directly support older people across the state, on challenges from transport and housing, to health and digital access.“

(500316)

Discover a new way to live at Lifestyle Ridgelea.

Tribute to fallen officers

By Afraa Kori

The tragedy in Porepunkah may have unfolded hours away in Victoria but its impact is being felt deeply in Cardinia and Casey, where communities are uniting to honour the two police officers tragically killed in the line of duty.

Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart, were fatally shot while attending a property on Rayner Track, Porepunkah, shortly after 10.30am on Tuesday 26 August. A third officer was seriously injured after being shot in the lower body, while no other officers were physically harmed.

On 28 August, police took two people into custody as part of the ongoing investigation. Fugitive Squad detectives, assisted by the Special Operations Group, attended a Porepunkah address around 8.40pm, where a 42-year-old woman and a 15-year-old boy were safely arrested, interviewed, and released pending further enquiries.

Extensive searches continue for the accused, Desmond Filby (also known as Desmond Freeman), whose whereabouts remain unknown. Detectives from the Homicide Squad, Armed Crime Squad, and Fugitive Squad are leading the investigation, with support from the Special Operations Group and Critical Incident Response Team. Victoria Police have urged the public in and around Porepunkah to remain indoors and avoid travel to the area.

Residents have been paying their respects at local police stations, leaving flowers and sharing messages of support, while the Cardinia Cultural Centre shines blue at night in recognition of the officers’ service.

Tributes are continuing at Casey Fields, where the Officer Kangaroos Junior Football Club took four grand final teams onto the field at the weekend wearing blue armbands.

Club president Shayne Honey said it was a simple but powerful gesture.

“The Officer Junior Football Club has a number of parents who are current and former Victoria Police Members and PSO’s in our club,” Honey said.

“Getting our kids to wear a blue armband for their grand final is a simple way to pay tribute to the police officers who were killed, but also show support for police officers in general.

“Our grand finals get filmed, and no doubt when the kids watch it back as they get older, it will always stick in their minds, memories and well into the future.”

AFL South East, in conjunction with the F&DJFL, MPJFL and SEJ, extended the invitation to all teams competing in grand finals on the Sunday, also encouraging a pre-game moment of silence.

Junior Football Operations Manager Caleb van Raay said all the clubs “recognise the vital role that Victoria Police and all emergency first responders play in our community, and we wish to express our support to the families, friends, and colleagues affected by this tragedy”.

Cardinia Mayor Jack Kowarzik said “the tragic events that took place in Porepunkah this week highlight the bravery and dedication of our police force, who put their lives on the line everyday to keep our community safe”.

“Our deepest condolences go to the families of the two officers who lost their lives and the officer who was wounded through this tragedy, along with their colleagues and the entire Victoria Police community,” Kowarzik said.

“As a mark of respect and gratitude, the Cardinia Cultural Centre lights will shine blue at night until the end of September, paying tribute to the heroic efforts of police officers this week – two whose

lives were taken way too soon.”

Premier Jacinta Allan said Victoria Police and the community of Porepunkah “will not carry that weight alone“.

“Our Government stands with Victoria Police –today, and every day they wear that uniform with pride,“ Allan said.

“Our thoughts are with the emergency services still responding to this unthinkable crime.“

Leader of Opposition MP Brad Battin and Shadow Minister of Police MP David Southwick, also paid tribute, highlighting the risks and commitment of Victoria Police.

“Police officers know their job is dangerous –but they do it anyway to protect us. To the families who are mourning today, know that every Australian is with you,” Battin and Southwick said.

“Our thoughts are also with all Victorian police officers who will be feeling this loss deeply. We know your work is hard. The dangers you face are real. And your sacrifices are often unrecognised. Today we acknowledge your courage.

“On behalf of the Victorian Opposition, we pay tribute to their courage, their service, and their unwavering commitment to protecting our community. Their memory will never be forgotten.”

Victoria Police is “deeply moved” by the out-

pouring of support in local communities, across the state and beyond.

“Thank you to everyone who has stopped by your local police station with flowers, kind words and messages of support,” the spokesperson said.

“Your heartfelt gestures bring a measure of comfort in this difficult time. We understand that many wish to show further support.

“Donations can be made to the Victoria Police Legacy, a charitable not-for-profit organisation where funds go directly to those affected by this tragedy.“

For more information or to contribute, visit www.policelegacyvic.org.au.

Kobe and Isabelle. (Gary Sissons: 499602)

Ava, Remy, Isabel and Sophie.

The banner run through.

Senior Constable Vadim De Waart, who was shot and killed on Tuesday in rural Victoria, Australia. (Victoria Police via AAP)

Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson. (PR HANDOUT/Victoria Police/AAP)

The banner run through.The banner run through.

A minute silence in respect for the police. Wearing Blue arm bands.

A minute silence in respect for the police. Wearing Blue arm bands.

Remy and Isabel.

Getting the banner ready.

A minute silence in respect for the police. Wearing Blue arm bands.

$200,000 in bills wiped

By Ethan Benedicto

The Bring Your Bills event on Tuesday, 2 September, was a resounding success, as just over $200,000 in debt was cleared on the day.

The event, which ran from 10am to 3pm at the Arthur Wren Hall in Hampton Park, had over 400 residents/clients in attendance, or roughly $2.5 million in debt that came through the centre’s doors.

Peter McNamara, Southeast Community Links (SECL) CEO, said that the event was a “testament” to the effects of open conversations and a safe space to speak about one’s financial struggles.

“It’s a reflection of our diverse community, the inclusive space, and we place-based solutions that were present.

“We had banks, energy companies, government services, and financial services, offering practical support for the community,” he said.

The event also had a surprise visit from the Victorian Premier, Jacinta Allan, who spoke from one resident to another about their struggles, and the importance of community-centred events and their outreach capabilities.

Speaking to a crowd of SECL volunteers and residents, she said that the event is “incredibly powerful”.

“I thank the organisation not just for bringing this together, but for creating the space where people can get assistance in their community when they need it the most,” she said.

Also present during the event was the City of Casey’s mayor, Stefan Koomen, who, reflecting on seeing the number of people that were in the space, said that “it’s great to have all these services in one place”.

“We know people are doing it tough at the moment and sometimes, your bills get away from you; this is an opportunity to come and find a resolution.

“Whether it be a payment plan or hardship

assistance, it’s great to have these support services here to help our people doing it tough,” he said.

Touching on the premier’s visit, Koomen said that having her in the local community and listening to the issues first-hand is impactful.

“It’s great to have her here listening to the problems we’re confronting, and hopefully, she saw today that the cost of living is still top of mind for many people,” he said.

Other MPs were also present to accompany the premier during her visit, with Narre Warren

MP Gary Maas, as well as Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards, also listening in on residents’ concerns.

McNamara, on the event’s impact, said that the $200,000 of debt wiped on the day was symbolic. “For example, we had someone who had a credit card charge of $1000 in excess, but was also experiencing family violence, so we had it wiped by the bank,” he said. “We also had $1500 wiped by the ambulance services for a pensioner on the spot; so that outcome changes people’s lives, relieving the stress that they feel.”

Women’s Health Week

Foley and Associates your local dermatology experts

As Women’s Health Week shines a light on wellness, Foley Dermatology & Associates stands proud as a trusted local partner in women’s skin health. Located in Lakeside Square Medical Suites and accessed from Fitzroy St, our clinic of-

fers expert dermatological care to Pakenham and surrounding areas.

We have a sister Clinic in Malvern East and between both clinics Foley Dermatology spans comprehensive medical, surgical, and aesthetic

care. Whether you’re managing acne, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, hyperhidrosis, or hair, nail and pigment-related concerns, our specialist dermatologists deliver evidence-based, personalised treatment.

We also provide skin cancer surveillance, surgical lesion removal, UVB phototherapy, photodynamic therapy (PDT), and rejuvenating aesthetic services such as lasers, injectables, peels, and dermal fillers.

Founded by A/Prof Peter Foley, a trailblazer in photodynamic therapy and psoriasis treatment, with an extensive record in research, teaching, and innovation in non-melanoma skin cancer

care, our Pakenham Clinic is also serviced by Dr Sudha Anish, a highly knowledgeable general dermatologist, skilled in inflammatory skin disorders, hair and nail issues, and skin cancer management. Foley Dermatology & Associates lead the way at Lakeside Square for all your dermatological needs and concerns.

During Women’s Health Week, trust Foley Dermatology to champion your skin health with clinical excellence and compassionate care – because both you and your skin health deserve attention.

Dr Sudha Anish.

South

Peter, Julia and Maher from SECL at the entrance of the room, greeting residents who came in, but also provided support through information about their services. (Stewart Chambers: 497373_01)

Volunteer interpreters Kanmani and Usha played an integral role during the event, providing support for those who struggled with English as an added language. (Stewart Chambers: 497373_03

Leith from SECL, shows Premier Jacinta Allan data and information about the day’s events, alongside Peter McNamara (middle left) and Gary Maas MP (right) (Stewart Chambers: 497373_15)

Cranbourne named a top scam hotspot

Cranbourne has once again been named among Victoria’s scam hotspots, with new data showing the suburb is one of the state’s top five postcodes for reported scam cases over the past year.

The report by Westpac highlights postcodes across the country where scammers are most active, with Sydney’s CBD topping the national list.

In Victoria, Melbourne CBD, Tarneit, Werribee, Craigieburn, and Cranbourne feature prominently.

Looking specifically at Cranbourne, the most commonly reported scams are buying and selling scams, investment scams, and impersonation scams.

According to Westpac, in many cases, they have been able to recover funds for affected customers, though where losses have occurred, the amounts vary from lower values (e.g. $50) in instances of buying and selling scams to higher values (e.g. hundreds or thousands) for investment scams.

Last year, Cranbourne also made the top list in Victoria.

Westpac head of Fraud Prevention Ben Young

said this was the second time the bank had lifted the lid on the country’s scam hotspots, and it was clear scammers continue to cast a wide net.

“From fake investment opportunities to irresistible online deals, scams are reaching Australians in every corner of the country. Scammers are constantly adapting and using emotional triggers and digital platforms to exploit Australians,” he said.

“While fast-growing areas have traditionally been hotspots, this year’s data shows a noticeable rise in scam activity across inner-city postcodes, especially in Sydney and Melbourne.

“The spike in reports from Sydney and Melbourne CBDs is partly driven by a rise in invoice or business email compromise scams targeting businesses.

“We know scammers are opportunistic, and going after businesses may seem like an easy money-making opportunity.”

While losses to scams continued to decline in the past 12 months, the data shows the scam types driving the largest losses are investment scams, followed by business email compromise,

impersonation, romance and threat, and penalty scams.

“It’s encouraging to see overall scam losses continue to come down, but we know the impact on individuals and businesses can be devastating,” Mr Young said.

Tips to help protect yourself from scammers:

Never give out your personal or financial information to anyone you don’t know or trust.

Don’t click on links or open attachments in unsolicited emails, text messages, or social media messages.

Do your research before buying anything online and check the seller’s reputation and reviews.

Always phone a company on a trusted number to check the payment details are correct before paying an invoice.

Be wary of offers that sound too good to be true.

Don’t send money or gift cards to someone you’ve never met in person, no matter how convincing their story is.

Phone a family member or friend if you’re unsure about anything.

Celebrating everything books at St Agatha’s

St Agatha’s Primary School in Cranbourne celebrated Book Week with a week full of stories, creativity, and fun activities for students of all ages. Students and staff dressed up as their favourite book characters, bringing beloved stories to life around the school.

Star News photographer Gary Sissons captured beautiful moments on the day.

Wandering cats worry

By Ethan Benedicto

The City of Casey has set its sights on tackling the persistent issue of wandering cats, outlining a tougher stance in its new Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026–2029.

The draft plan, currently on public exhibition, recognises cat overpopulation and roaming behaviours as the municipality’s most pressing animal management challenge, linking them to environmental impacts, community complaints, and high euthanasia rates.

Council data shows more than 2,000 cats were impounded in 2024/25, with over 700 euthanised after being unclaimed or unsuitable for rehoming.

At the same time, nuisance complaints involving cats, ranging from trespassing to noise, rose to 519 reports.

“Overpopulation of cats remains a significant challenge,” the document stated.

“This issue arises due to inadequate desexing, irresponsible breeding, and a lack of public awareness about pet care and adoption.”

Casey currently enforces one of the strictest cat orders in the state with a 24hour curfew requiring cats to be contained to their owners’ properties at all times.

The Plan doubles down on this, pledging new campaigns to educate owners about the curfew, cat confinement, and the impacts of roaming pets on neighbours and native wildlife. The plan noted that cats at large continue to generate strong community concern, pointing to orders that completely prohibit cat ownership in sensitive states such as Botanic Ridge and Settlers Run, where the species poses a risk to threatened flora and fauna.

Council will also provide cat traps to residents dealing with repeat nuisance issues, issued only after thorough investigation by an authorised officer.

A fresh element of the draft plan is its support for DIY cat enclosures; here, Council proposes working with hardware stores to offer workshops and kits, helping residents build safe outdoor spaces where cats can roam without leaving their properties. Financial incentives for cat owners to construct enclosures will also be explored in 2026, alongside stronger messaging on the benefits of confinement, for both pets and the community.

The plan also emphasises its reasoning, that roaming cats are not just a neighbourhood nuisance but an environmental threat, preying on birds and wildlife in Casey’s many parks and reserves.

Behind the nuisance problem lies a bigger issue, which is numbers. Cat impoundments have nearly doubled in four years, and while adoption rates through the Lost Dogs’ Home and local rescues are rising, the document detailed that they are not enough to prevent high euthanasia rates.

To counter this, Casey will continue its partnership with the National Desexing Network, subsidising 50 per cent of the cost for eligible households. The program includes free microchipping, further ensuring compliance with registration laws.

Council also plans to trial a registration initiative for semi-owned cats, those that residents feed but do not formally claim, encouraging people to take ownership and responsibility. The plan stated that by addressing semi-owned and feral populations, the council hopes to ease the strain on shelters and reduce euthanasia rates.

Alongside enforcement and subsidies, the draft plan emphasises education as its main tool. A new Responsible Pet Ownership Handbook is being developed, with specific guidance on cat health, behaviour, and legal responsibilities, on the overarching goals of responsible pet ownership, pet registration, training resources and local laws. Awareness campaigns will also target school communities, new housing estates, and online platforms, underscoring the message that responsible ownership extends beyond dogs.

Comparison sparks rebuke

By Ethan Benedicto

Liberal South-eastern Metropolitan MP AnnMarie Hermans has compared former Premier Daniel Andrews to Joseph Stalin during a parliamentary debate on Wednesday, 27 August.

This first began with Western Metropolitan MP Moria Deeming’s opposition to a statue of former Premier Daniel Andrews, questioning whether Andrews “earned“ the right to a statue. She spoke on Andrews’ political career, labelling it as a disaster, and also said that statues are often tools of ‘political dominance’, giving examples such as Vladimir Lenin, Mao Zedong and Saddam Hussein.

Deeming also likened the Nuremberg trials to what she alleged was Andrews’ ignorance of bodily autonomy.

Labor South-eastern Metropolitan MP Micahel Galea interjected, but it was not long before Hermans began her speech by saying that Andrews’ leadership was comparable to Joseph Stalin, a totalitarian leader of the former Soviet Union.

Hermans further added that Stalin’s rule over the USSR was one built on “fear, on violence and on absolute control“, and that tactics such as total state control, over all aspects of life, free press, and political opposition, were comparable to Andrews’ tenure, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic lockdowns.

The petition that Hermans and Deeming referred to garnered almost 35,000 signatures against Andrews’ proposed statue, with 12,000 present in paper, and 20,000 in other platforms.

Hermans added that in the unprecedented nature of the pandemic, the additional powers granted to the then State Government, which she described as ones designed for “short-term emergencies“, were over-extended, saying that it was a “permanent blueprint“ for the “suspension of freedoms“.

Galea opposed Deeming’s comparisons, es-

pecially when Deeming revisited a 2013 car crash that involved Andrews’ family and a collision with then 15-year-old Ryan Meuleman, who was seriously injured and airlifted to the hospital.

Deeming alleged that the police response at the time was mishandled, where she included claims that no breath tests were conducted on either driver (Catherine Andrews and Ryan), and that the major crash investigation unit was not called.

Galea rebutted, saying that the “leader of the opposition’s representative“made “outrageous“ comments against VicPol officers, amidst the death of two officers in Porepunkah, but also that

Deeming’s reference to the Nuremberg trials was appalling.

Galea asked if Deeming was indeed serious about her comparisons, and that he was “gravely offended“, and while he did not care for the building of a statue, he wondered why Deeming had decided to “implement these bizarre tests“.

Hermans was also hit with a rebuttal by Eastern Victoria MP Tom McIntosh, who remarked that in three years of tenure, there were times when he could clearly remember that he was “deeply disturbed“ by things that were said, with Hermans’ comments among them.

McIntosh, with the aid of southern metropol-

itan MP John Berger, added that Stalin was the perpetrator and the cause of the murder of millions of people.

He also said that those in parliament should be “very thoughtful“ of the language being used, asking if the parliament wanted to go “down the path… where democracies are being destroyed“. The comparisons to totalitarian figures such as Stalin, Mao, Lenin and Hussein drew criticism from the sitting parliament, with opponents warning that equating Andrews’ premiership with regimes marked by violence and mass killings diminished the weight of historical atrocities.

‘Disrespectful and disgraceful’: MP hits out at comments

By Ethan Benedicto

South-Eastern Metropolitan MP Michael Galea has spoken out against a fellow minister who likened former Premier Daniel Andrews to dictator Joseph Stalin.

During the final sitting week of August, Ann-Marie Hermans spoke in opposition to the proposal of a statue to Andrews, with fellow Liberal MP Moira Deeming previously presenting a petition with nearly 35,000 signatures against said statue.

Galea said that hearing it all in person, and being said in parliament no less, was “shocking”.

“It was more than just disrespectful and disgraceful; it was dangerous. Our democracy is one of the most important things that we have.

“For anyone to be saying such outrageous things that undermine the dignity of the parliament, but also are deeply offensive to many, many people in the southeast community who carry the intergenerational trauma which Stalin perpetrated,” he said.

Understanding the sentiments of not wanting a statue of a former premier, he was asked by Star News if he thought that the Americanisation of political messaging had become more prominent in Australian politics, to which he agreed.

“It’s pandering to a dangerous element, it’s dangerous dog whistling,” he said.

“Even though Ms Hermans brought back some of her comments the next day, she still made equally outrageous comments to try and justify herself.

“She needs to actually give a full apology, not just to the Parliament, but to the community.”

Galea also criticised the state opposition leader, Brad Battin, for not condemning Hermans’ comments, reflecting that Australian politics, with its ministers, “takes its values seriously”, but not in that dimension.

“We are united by a common purpose more than not, but it’s divisive and hateful, rhetoric-driven politics that’s completely not based in reality, used to pander to a specific element, that is posing a very dangerous risk,” he said.

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!

Ann-Marie Hermans MP has compared former Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews to Joseph Stalin in parliament, receiving criticism from other members. (On File)

Michael Galea MP has criticised Ann-Marie Hermans for her comments on comparing former Premier

Daniel Andrews to Joseph Stalin. (On File)

Spring in full bloom

Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne is putting on a spectacular show this spring, with wattles and orchids bursting into bloom.

“We have approximately 87 species of wattle growing at Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne and 92 species on display at Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne,” Tim Sansom, executive director Living Collections and Environment at Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, said.

“We have several must-see, unique and rare varieties, including Acacia leprosa ‘Scarlet Blaze’.”

This unusual cultivar was found in 1995 deep in the Black Range State Park.

Like virtually all species of wattle, Acacia leprosa usually flowers in yellow, so when bushwalkers stumbled upon a bright red specimen, they took cuttings and passed them on to Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria.

There, botanists worked with the nursery team to conserve the spectacular cultivar by propagating new plants from the original cuttings.

As a result, Acacia leprosa ‘Scarlet Blaze’ was born.

To this day, all ‘Scarlet Blaze’ plants are clones that descend from the cuttings propagated at the Melbourne Gardens nursery.

There are approximately 1,100 known species of Acacia, but the vast majority occur naturally in Australia, with Acacia pycnantha (Golden Wattle) officially proclaimed the national floral emblem in 1988.

For more than 25 million years, wattles have grown on the Australian continent. They have adapted to Australia’s extreme environments, and many species have evolved resistance to fire, salinity, drought, alkalinity and disease.

“This genus has evolved various shapes and

textures, sizes, bark and leaf forms due to the environments that they are adapted to. They can range from tall trees to small shrubs and are fascinating to explore,” Mr Sansom said.

Some highlights include: a unique red cultivar called Acacia leprosa ‘Scarlet Blaze’, Acacia denticulosa (Sandpaper Wattle), which is nicknamed the ‘twisties’ wattle due to its flowers’ resemblance to the snack, Acacia aphylla (Leafless Rock Wattle), a Western Australian species that evolved without leaves due to environmental selection pressures; and Acacia cultriformis (Knifeleaf Wattle), which has been grafted to look as though it is growing upside down.

The science team at Royal Botanic Gardens

Victoria was also part of the team that recently sequenced the genome of Acacia pycnantha

Waiting for action

By Violet Li

A Hampton Park resident says he has been left “beyond frustrated” after waiting nearly 18 months and making six calls to VicRoads for the overgrown grass on a median strip on a road to be cut.

The overgrown median strip is located between Warana Drive and Somerville Road in the suburb.

Local resident Dennis Luke first rang VicRoads in February 2024 to request more regularmowingofthemedianstripbetween Coral and Fordham Roads and Pound Road.

According to Dennis, what followed has been a series of half-done jobs and outright misinformation.

“After Christmas in February, I decided to ring VicRoads. I said that the grass hadn’t been mowed for quite a while between Coral Fordham and Pound Road. They said that it’ll get completed within the next couple of months,” he recalled.

“When it did get done, it was November.

“To their credit, VicRoads mowed the two long sections, between Warana Drive and Pound Road, and again between Somerville Road and Coral Fordham Drive. But the middle stretch, the small section between Warana Drive and Somerville Road, has been ignored ever since.

“Since then, I’ve made five phone calls to various VicRoads staff, all without results.”

To make matters worse, Dennis said Transport Victoria recently texted him claiming the strip between Coral Fordham and Pound Road was mowed in April this year, which is true, but again, the middle section was left untouched.

The resident said the lack of transparency around subcontractors added to his frustration.

“I haven’t been able to find out who the subcontractor is. VicRoads won’t tell me,” he said.

Dennis described his experience dealing with VicRoads as “frustrating”.

“Probably worse than frustrating. Have a look at synonyms and find a word that’s worse than frustrating,” he said.

“Another failure of the State Government.

“Local residents are just as frustrated. They’ve given up.

“Not only does the neglected strip look terrible, but the last time it was touched, the mowing tore straight through young trees, leaving a mangled mess.”

The persistent local also believed that for a growing community like Hampton Park, there should be more frequent mowing.

“They now say it’ll only be mowed ‘every couple of months’, meaning just two or three times a year,” Dennis said.

“For a growing community like Hampton Park, that’s unacceptable.”

(Golden Wattle), which will help support conservation of the rarer species in the genus.

This spring, the Cranbourne garden also unveils the Orchid Conservation Tour, offering visitors a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the world’s largest endangered orchid rewilding effort.

Running from 2 to 18 September, the tour invites nature enthusiasts into the shadehouses of the RBGV Orchid Conservation Program, where Victoria’s precious native orchids, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth, are being carefully nurtured and reintroduced into the wild.

Orchids are among the state’s most enigmatic wildflowers, with over 400 native species gracing Victoria’s landscapes, but half are threatened with extinction in the wild.

When inquired, a Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) spokesperson said: “Our crews will inspect roadside areas across Hampton Park in the coming days, with mowing expected to ramp up across Victoria this month as part of our $976 million Better Roads Blitz.”

According to DTP, they work alongside councils and emergency services to plan their mowing and vegetation management programs. Their crews mow, slash, and spray around 45,000 kilometres of roadside grass and weeds each year, and they prioritise the work that will have the greatest impact on public safety and assess all public reports accordingly.

John Woodward, Technical Assistant, Orchid Conservation, in the Orchid Conservation shadehouse. (Stewart Chambers: 500091)

Acacia stictophylla (Dandenong Range cinnamon wattle). Grevillea petrophiloides subsp magnifica.

Acacia denticulosa (Sandpaper wattle).

Hampton Park Dennis Luke was standing in the overgrown median strip on Hallam Road. The photo was taken on 26 August. (Stewart Chambers: 498726)

Early Childhood Educators Day

Bright start

Pico Early Learning Centre and Kindergarten is there to make a difference in a child’s first five years of life, says the centre’s Hayley Smithson.

Since 2021, the private early childhood care and education centre has catered for children from six weeks to six years, with funded threeand four-year-old kinder.

“We believe children thrive in a nurturing environment where respect, inclusion, and safety are paramount.”

Pico’s educational programs are based on intentional and play-based experiences.

They foster children’s learning and development across key areas such as communication, language, social interactions, cognitive skills, and physical well-being.

Smithson says communication is key in building trust among our staff, families, and children,

to ensure a supportive, safe and inclusive community for everyone involved.

“We have a family feel where everyone knows everyone and educators take the time to get to know the families and their different backgrounds, cultures and values.”

Pico’s greatest achievement is in building those relationships with families and the wider community, she says.

This week, Pico’s staff and families are celebrating together for Early Childhood Educators Day on Wednesday 3 September with an ‘appreciation message wall’, gifts and treats.

Pico Early Learning Centre and Kindergarten is at 2/2-6 Princes Highway Pakenham, MondayFriday 6:30am-6:00pm. Details: 59402111 or reception@picoearlylearning.com.au

AtFiRSTEarlyLearning,weknowoureducatorsarethe heartandsoulofeverythingwedo.ThisEducatorsDay, wewanttopauseandcelebratetheincredibleteamwho nurture,guide,andinspirethechildreninourcareevery singleday.Oureducatorsdosomuchmorethanteach. Theysparkcuriosity,buildconfidence,andcreatesafe, welcomingenvironmentswherechildrenfeelloved, supported,andreadytoexploretheworldaroundthem.

Theimpactofoureducatorsreachesfarbeyondthe wallsofourcentres.Theyshapenotonlythemindsbut alsotheheartsofthechildrenintheircare,helpingthem growintokind,capable,andconfidentindividuals.Behind thescenes,theyspendcountlesshoursplanning experiences,supportingfamilies,andensuringevery childhasthebestpossiblestarttolife.Today,wewantto sayaheartfeltthankyoutoourentireFiRST EarlyLearningteam.

Celebrating Early Childhood Educators Day

We at Pico Early Learning and Kindergarten say a heartfelt THANK YOU to our incredible educators who nurture, guide, and inspire our youngest learners every day.

Early Childhood Educators play a vital role in shaping bright futures, creating safe spaces, and fostering a love of learning. Their dedication, patience, and passion make a world of difference in our children’s lives. Join us in recognising and celebrating these everyday heroes.

Early Childhood Educators Day – honouring those who give our children the best start in life.

Thankyouforyourdedication,yourcompassion,and yourunwaveringbeliefineachchild’spotential.Thank youforthelaughter,thelearning,andthecountlesslittle momentsthatmakesuchabigdifference.

Wetrulyarenothingwithoutoureducators. Today,wecelebrateyou— TheheartofFiRSTEarlyLearningandtheheroesshaping thenextgeneration.

Pico early educators Bree, Kylie, Hayley, Jaspreet and Sukhveer with kids Joash and Darcy.

Berwick Bridge Club

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

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 using the online enrolment form, visit our website: u3acasey.org.au

• Phone our office – 0493 280 458. Email uscaseyu3a@gmail.com

Balla Balla Community Centre

Health & Wellbeing at Balla Balla

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

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 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.

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. 1pm-3:30pm, Carpet Bowls Wed. & Sat.

JUDITH ANN WOODWARD

late of Unit 2/5 Station Street, Lang Lang, retired, deceased.

Creditors, next-of-kin, and all others having claims in respect of the abovenamed deceased, who died on 29 September 2024, are required by the trustee, Jason Patrick Woodward, 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 31 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.

Probate was granted in Victoria on 14 January 2025.

SHARMA SOLICITORS AND CONVEYANCERS, 70–72 High Street, Cranbourne, Victoria 3977. Ph: 03 9118 2050.

11:30am-2:30pm, 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

Our main Club Day is on Wednesdays from 9:30am to 3:00pm. On the first Wednesday of the month,

we enjoy socialising with our many members and, on the next three (3) Wednesdays, we have live entertainment wherein you can do some dancing or line dancing and if you wish, with an afternoon cup of tea and biscuits. We also hold weekly activities on other days during the week, which include the Garden Group, Indoor Carpet Bowls, Table Tennis, Line Dancing, Gentle Exercises and friendly Card Games.

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

Blind Bight Community Centre

Craft gift making for adults from 12.30pm to 2.30pm on Tuesdays.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Casey Cardinia Life Activities Club

The club hosts weekly social activities with dance, to low-key in-line dancing if you want to tap your feet, great music, a chat, and then afternoon tea. Day, short and long trips away via coach, a weekly morning coffee club, monthly Saturday country pub lunches, monthly Tuesday dine-outs, a weekly walking group, a weekly table tennis group, seasonal daytime musical theatre outings, entertainment function days and more.

Anyone interested can visit on Thursdays at 2pm for socialising and low-key dancing at Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House at 21A Bemersyde Drive or join the club for a coffee and a chat every Wednesday from 10am at the new François cafe in front of Myer in Fountain Gate.

• For more information, contact enquiry officer Gloria on 0468 363 616.

Youthful roar leading Lions

By Justin Schwarze

The youth brigade at Pakenham was in full force with the Lions grinding out a gritty semi-final victory over Alexandra in week two of the Outer East Division 1 finals.

Facing elimination on Sunday at Woori Yallock Reserve, Pakenham prevailed in a highlyentertaining and gutsy contest full of momentum swings.

The first came from the Rebels, who booted the opening two goals, with skipper Edward Watkin converting his set shot before key forward William Stewart outmuscled his opponent, wheeled onto his left and snapped it through.

The Lions got their first through a quick transition down the wing, finding Kade Perkins tracking forward who played on and bent it home on his left boot.

A good kicking chain from halfback saw Lochie Menzel hit Sam Cachia before the key forward turned and laced out Tanner Stanton.

Stanton guided his long set shot home for Pakenham’s second.

Following that, a clever handball from Finn Nicholas inside 50 allowed Matt Vaiano to capitalise via a dribbler, before Mason Hall grabbed his first from a set shot.

Down the other end, Stewart ended the streak of four consecutive Lions goals when he marked and drilled a kick through the big sticks from 50.

Ed Aujard then collected the footy and snapped a goal for Alexandra before James Ahern hooked one home before the quarter time siren.

At the first change, Pakenham led 5.3(33) to 4.1(25).

Harry Prendergast burst through in the second and kicked to the advantage of Stewart, who clunked another mark and subsequently converted from close range.

A minute later, Watkin got through a hand-pass to Stewart and the superstar was having a day out as he placed it on the boot and watched it bounce through.

The Rebels then built a 10-point cushion after Jonathan Grimwade scooped up the footy and kicked truly.

The Lions responded with the final three goals of the half, scoring via a long Cachia set shot, Hall slotting one from the pocket after a free kick and Nicholas cashing out from 35 metres.

As the teams headed for the rooms, Pakenham had swiftly regained the scoreboard advantage 8.5(53) to 7.3(45).

The second half began with some Ben Green madness as the emerging talent took a colossal pack grab and goaled from a short distance.

Just a minute later, he used some quick thinking from a Vaiano miss, pouncing on a loose footy and soccered through a second in a matter of minutes.

Alexandra was unfazed, going through the corridor to hit up Stewart again, who belted his shot over the goal umpire’s head.

A free kick in the forward 50 for the Lions was paid advantage and Josh Haggar used the space to get his first.

Then, Vaiano added another by goaling from distance with his booming left boot.

Stewart continued to keep the Rebels in the game, slotting his fifth goal for the afternoon after drawing a free kick.

OUTER EAST FOOTBALL DIVISION 1 REVIEW -

Watkin then made no mistakes from his set shot and suddenly Alexandra was back within nine points.

Just when the Rebels thought they had wrestled back the momentum heading into the last, Hall created something out of nothing by applying body, collecting the ball and miraculously snapping truly over his shoulder.

At the final change, Pakenham held a 13.5(83) to 10.8(68) buffer.

The Lions threatened early in the last before Hall provided the breakthrough.

He got out the back and slammed a curler on the boot, celebrating as he watched it bounce through.

But Alexandra wasn’t done yet.

Josh Edwards kicked a beauty off the run and Stewart was too good for his matchup again, physically overpowering his defender and marking in the square.

His seventh goal had the Rebels behind by less than two kicks at the 17 minute mark of the last.

However, Josh Trembath was awarded a free kick for a push in the back in a dangerous spot and he goaled to seal the game and send the Lions into the prelim.

The final score read a Pakenham victory 15.9(99) to 12.8(80).

“I asked the guys before the game to give us the bestversionsofthemselvesandforthemostpartof Sunday, guys gave the best version of themselves,” Lions senior coach Justin Stanton said.

“I think they were really good.

“A lot of them it was their second final after getting a good look last week and falling short.

“They took some learnings out of the first final which they took into Sunday.

“They still made some mistakes, but I was really pleased with their contributions and they all had moments throughout the day that certainly helped us and enabled us to maintain some sort of

scoreboard pressure.

“Our planning was all centred around knowing Alexandra’s strength is their midfield, their asset up forward is Stewart and they’ve got backs that like to work collectively.

“We wanted to try and match their intensity around the stoppages and we thought we did that well and we used the footy well in most parts.

“When we were able to open up our forward line and isolate their defenders, we were able to capitalise.

“They all contributed where they could.”

With a young outfit and a crushing loss to Seville in the qualifying final, Stanton noted that the mindset was to keep things positive in the Pakenham camp.

He reassured his side that they didn’t just stumble into a semi-final.

“We had a real focus all week about remaining positive and reminding the playing group of all the good things they have done this year to get where they are,” he said.

“That continued into the game, we wanted to celebrate the little wins we were having throughout the game.

“They responded really well, they responded to constructive criticism and we got a response out of them, which was pleasing.

“I think the players kept focus pretty well, the players were composed.

“We took learnings out of last week’s loss, we’ll take learnings out of Sunday’s win and what will be will be.

“We’re tracking in the right direction, the young guys have got a taste of finals footy, they liked the feeling of winning on Sunday and they’re keen to have this journey continue.”

Hall led the Lions with four goals, while Green and Vaiano were the only other players with multiple goals (both with two).

10 different players found the goals in the win,

something Stanton has preached all season long.

“That’s us in a nutshell,” he said of the deep goalkicking list.

“Scouting to play us as an opposition would be hard to work out who’s the most important person you need to stop.

“We just try and ensure the guys pick the best option going forward and whoever’s on the end of that hopefully takes their opportunity and executes.”

The emergence of Ryan in the finals series has been a marvel for the Pakenham faithful.

After a best-on-ground performance last week, he followed his good form by tearing up the midfield on Sunday.

His ability to win the footy and use it efficiently is beyond his years.

“He was terrific again,” Stanton said of Ryan.

“I thought Tanner (Stanton) and Luke in particular used the footy really well going inside 50.

“He won a lot of contested footy, he takes vital marks, pushes back to help out the backline, I thought he was outstanding.

“You get what you put in and he’s worked tirelessly doing a preseason at local level alongside a preseason at VFL level.

“He’s been enormous for us and the guys that play around him walk taller with him.

“He was really good.”

Ryan Martini, Jaiden Camenzuli, Tanner Stanton, Chris Cardona along with Hall were also among Pakenham’s best.

The Lions now advance to a preliminary final where Warburton Millgrove awaits.

The Burras were rolled by Seville in the second semi-final 19.12(126) to 9.8(62).

The winner of the matchup will face the Blues in the big dance.

But for now, Pakenham progresses.

Bloods come through in clutch to overrun tough Tigers

By Justin Schwarze

An absolute thriller between Woori Yallock and Olinda Ferny Creek saw the Bloods snatch back the lead late and get through in week one of the Outer East Premier Division finals.

At Yarra Junction Reserve, Olinda Ferny Creek took advantage of some poor Tigers goalkicking, leading 6.2(38) to 2.5(17) at the first break.

Both teams booted four goals in the second term with the Bloods holding their lead at 19 points at the main intermission.

The third was an arm-wrestle after Woori Yallock managed the first major of the quarter, but Olinda Ferny Creek bagged a late goal to push the gap back to a score of 11.6(72) to 7.13(55).

The Tigers stormed home, booting the first three goals of the last and momentarily took the lead. The Bloods responded with the next two, before Woori Yallock charged again.

Another set of back-to-back Tiger goals saw them hit the front for a second time at the

19-minute mark of the final period.

They seemed destined to steal the result, before Jethro Von Hesse displayed a cool head and slotted an absolute beauty from the pocket to lift Olinda Ferny Creek back into the lead.

The siren went a few minutes later and the Bloods got through to the second semi-final with a 14.17(91) to 12.15(87) qualifying final win.

Taylor Gibson bagged four goals for Woori Yallock while Luca Smith also managed four in the victory.

In the elimination final, a four-quarter effort from Monbulk helped the Hawks progress, outlasting Healesville 13.19(97) to 10.4(64).

Adam Banks and Josh Wentworth both slotted three majors each for Monbulk.

Max Donegan finished with six of the Bloods’ 10 goals. Olinda Ferny Creek will now play Wandin for a spot in the grand final.

Woori Yallock and Monbulk will do battle this week with both sides’ seasons on the line.

OUTER EAST FOOTBALL

PREMIER DIVISION REVIEW - WEEK 1 FINALS

Healesville’s promising first season in Premier Division came to a close with a loss to Monbulk. (Rob Carew: 497915)

Dynamic small forward Mason Hall was phenomenal with four goals in Pakenham’s win over Alexandra. (Rob Carew: 497913)

Young Puma cubs pounce

Pakenham Baseball Club added silverware to the town vault on Saturday after the Pumas scored a memorable victory over Cheltenham Rustlers Blue in the Dandenong Baseball Association (DBA) Under-15 Winter Season grand final.

The young Pumas produced a dominant display, winning 11-3 to take home the shield and medals.

The news wasn’t so good for the B2 and women’s team, who went down swinging with pride against tough opposition.

Here’s how a premiership weekend played out.

UNDER 15

PUMAS CLINCH DBA GRAND FINAL IN DOMINANT FASHION

Pakenham Pumas capped off their season in magnificent fashion on Saturday with a commanding 11–3 victory over Cheltenham Rustlers Blue in the Dandenong Baseball Association (DBA) grand final.

Cheltenham got on the board in the first inning after they singled, scoring one run.

Ollie then singled down the right-field line, which helped the Pumas tie the game at one each in the bottom of the first.

Cheltenham briefly regained the lead in the third, but the bottom half of that innings saw the momentum swing decisively in Pakenham’s favour!

Pumas flipped the game on its head; scoring five runs to take the lead, 6-2.

Hunter singled to get the runners advanced, but the biggest blow in the inning was off an error after a hit from Ollie that drove in two.

Coadhey doubled to get another two runs scored with the fifth run coming off a wild pitch allowing him to scamper home.

Top of the fourth saw Cheltenham scoring a single on an error, but the bottom of the innings saw the Pumas scoring another five runs from four hits.

Liam doubled, scoring two runs, Junior grounded out, scoring one run, Dane drew a walk, scoring one run and Ollie singled, scoring one run; pushing the score to 11–3 and effectively sealing the win.

Coadhey earned the win for the Pumas on the mound.

The starting pitcher surrendered three hits and three runs (two earned) over four innings, striking out eight and walking one.

Timmy tossed one inning of no-run ball for the Pumas in relief.

The hurler gave up one hit, striking out two and walking none.

Hunter and Ollie were a force together in the lineup, as they each collected two hits for the Pumas, with Ollie leading the Pumas with three runs batted in.

The infielder went 2-for-3 on the day, while

Julia paced the Pumas with two walks.

Overall, the team had patience at the plate, amassing six walks for the game.

This has been a fantastic end to the season and a great reward to the hard work that the team has put in with their coaches.

So much thanks go to coaches Mouse and Huffy for all the help and guidance they gave the team. Many thanks too to Tania for scoring the games and also to Christine and Mark who also helped with the scoring.

There’s a short break now until the summer season starts and we hope to keep most of the team together as we move onto the summer competition.

The future looks bright for the Pumas juniors into the 2025/26 season.

B2

Pakenham Pumas fought hard in their preliminary final on Saturday but fell short against Bonbeach going down 4-1.

Bonbeach opened the scoring early, but Pakenham kept themselves in the game with strong pitching from Shaun Fahy.

Fahy went the distance on the mound, striking out six and giving up no earned runs across seven innings.

At the plate, Wayne Porter, Travis Hough, Scott

Dale, and Justin Mazurek all collected hits.

Dale also drove in the Pumas’ lone run, finishing 1-for-3 on the day at the plate.

Although the result brought the winter season to a close, the Pumas showed plenty of fight.

The team now turns its attention to the summer season, ready to go again with confidence and determination.

WOMENS WHITE

Pakenham Pumas Women’s White put up a determined fight but couldn’t keep pace with the hot bats of Dingley, going down 15-6 on Sunday at Kingston Heath Reserve.

The Pumas opened strong in the first inning, with Karlee Brady grounding out to bring in the first run of the game.

But Dingley immediately answered back in the bottom half, stringing together key hits to jump into the lead.

Dingley continued to pile on across the second and third innings, capitalising on timely hitting and patience at the plate.

On the mound, Emily Williams started for the Pumas, striking out one across two innings.

Felicity Clissold came in for the final innings, working hard on the mound for the Pakenham Pumas.

Despite the scoreboard, the Pumas showed

plenty of grit.

Emily Devine was a standout with three hits in as many at-bats, while she and Brady drove in two runs apiece.

The Pumas were aggressive on the base paths, swiping 11 bags, with Devine and Clissold each recording multiple steals.

While the result didn’t go their way, the Pumas Women’s White showed resilience and flashes of brilliance, particularly in their aggressive base running and middle-order batting.

Even though their finals came to an end, the Pumas showed their growth as a team throughout their season and the importance of hard work and team spirit.

JOIN THE PUMAS - COME AND TRY DAY If you’ve ever wanted to give baseball a go the Pakenham Pumas have ‘Come and Try’ days coming up on Saturday 13 September and Sunday 21 September…with Juniors from 11am to 12noon, Women from 12:30 to 1:30pm and Seniors from 12:30 to 1:30pm.

Pakenham Pumas are located at Toomuc Recreation Reserve behind Cardinia Life Pools.

Even if you’ve never played before we’d love to have you down.

James Kinsella and Jessica Moulding

Inaugural Retirement Village Shield won by Meadowvale

Meadowvale Retirement Village has earned itself a healthy pat on the back after residents Des Leigh, Max Mannik and John Hines combined to win the inaugural Cardinia Shire Retirement Village Bowls Tournament on Sunday.

Located on Eagle Drive in Pakenham,

Meadowvale came out on top in the roundrobin event where two teams were allowed per village.

The format was two-bowl triples, with the winning team receiving cash prizes along with a shield and medals donated by Cardinia Shire Mayor Jack Kowarzik.

The brain-child of organiser Bill Bosch, the event was played at the Pakenham Bowls Club and was rated a huge success, with Mayor Kowarzik on hand to award the winning prizes.

Faye Ritchie and Lorna Currie coordinated a contingent of volunteers in the kitchen,

providing bowlers and spectators with a lunch worth savouring. The Pakenham Bowls Club and Cardinia Shire plan on the event becoming a regular feature on the calendar.

Leigh skipped the winning side, with Hines the lead and Mannik bowling at two.

Brian Norton skipped for the Gold Care side.John Hines was part of the winning team.

From left, Tournament Organiser Bill Bosch, John Hines, Max Mannik, Cardinia Shire Mayor Jack Kowarzik (and children) and Meadowvale skip Des Leigh at the presentation ceremony on Sunday. (500468)

The Pakenham Pumas Under-15 team claimed the DBA Winter Season title with a strong win over Cheltenham. Back row from left; Wayne (Coach), Tanya (Scorer), Brock, Liam, Ollie, Angus, Timmy, Ian, Nick (Team Manager), Junior and Travis (Coach). Front Row; Hunter, Julia, Coadhey and Dane. (500443)