Spooky costumes look the part
Halloween filled our streets, homes, libraries, shopping centres with creativity and festive energy on October 31. Children, adults, and even pets showcased imaginative costumes, from superheroes to classic monsters, capturing the spirit of the holiday.
Local families went trick-or-treating through neighborhoods decorated with pumpkins, cobwebs, and lights. “It’s wonderful to see the kids’ faces light up as they go door to door,” a local parent said. “Halloween brings everyone together in such a fun and safe way.”
Some households hosted pumpkin carving contests or small Halloween parties, while manysharedtheircostumesonline,spreading the celebration beyond the neighbourhood.
The Gazette extends heartfelt thanks to all locals and photographers for their enthusiasm, creativity, and contributions that made this year’s Halloween celebration so memorable.
Left stranded...
Residents say they’ve been left stranded, with no public bus services operating in some parts of Pakenham for more than three months.
On Cameron Way, Rose said signs have been posted near her local bus stop stating that no buses are currently running, following major roadworks that reportedly disrupted previous
routes.
Residents are also questioning why school buses continue to operate in the area while regular public bus services have not resumed.
A Department of Transport and Planning spokesperson said “Racecourse Road is closed
between Cameron Way and Henry Street until mid-December as part of the Pakenham Roads Upgrade, which will upgrade the culverts at Pakenham Creek to reduce the risk of flooding for the local area.”
While school buses may be able to access Cameron Way, the public bus services, which
originate at Pakenham Station, are temporarily unable to access Cameron Way as Racecourse Road at the Pakenham Creek bridge is currently closed and therefore the buses cannot exit Henry Street onto Racecourse Road to then access Cameron Way. FULL STORY PAGE 2
message to Pakenham residents
Ben and Krystie with son Miles.
Jett, Isla and Indi.
Kerrie (Supplied)
No buses for months
By Afraa Kori
Residents say they’ve been left stranded, with no public bus services operating in some parts of Pakenham for more than three months.
On Cameron Way, Rose said signs have been posted near her local bus stop stating that no buses are currently running, following major roadworks that reportedly disrupted previous routes.
“It’s been three months now, and there’s still nothing,” Rose said. “We rely on the bus for everything — shopping, medical appointments, even just getting out of the house. It’s been really tough.”
Rose and her husband are both recovering from a recent car accident on the Princes Highway. Without a vehicle, they rely entirely on public transport to get around. Her husband, who was recently discharged from hospital for other medical reasons, has limited mobility, making access to buses essential.
“My husband has just come home from hospital and can’t walk far,” she said. “We
can’t afford taxis every day, it’s too expensive. The bus was our only way to get anywhere.”
Residents are also questioning why school buses continue to operate in the area while regular public bus services have not resumed.
“It doesn’t make sense,” Rose said. “If school buses can get through, why can’t public ones? Adults and elderly people need transport too.”
Many residents say the ongoing disruption has left them feeling forgotten and cut off from the wider community.
“We just want answers and some action,” Rose said. “It feels like no one cares how much this affects our daily lives.”
The upgrade to Racecourse Road is the third and final stage of the Pakenham Roads Upgrade and will be completed by mid-2026.
A Department of Transport and Planning spokesperson said “Racecourse Road is closed between Cameron Way and Henry Street until mid-December as part of the Pakenham Roads
Upgrade, which will upgrade the culverts at Pakenham Creek to reduce the risk of flooding for the local area.”
“Due to road closures, public buses are unable to access Cameron Way during these works, with buses temporarily diverting down John Street to access Pakenham Station instead.”
While school buses may be able to access Cameron Way, the public bus services, which originate at Pakenham Station, are temporarily unable to access Cameron Way as Racecourse Road at the Pakenham Creek bridge is currently closed and therefore the buses cannot exit Henry Street onto Racecourse Road to then access Cameron Way.
According to DTP, the project team is working with affected passengers for the duration of these works to ensure those with additional mobility requirements are supported.
Study explores media’s vital role
At a time when misinformation spreads quickly and trust in institutions is under pressure, public interest journalism remains one of the last safeguards of accountability and community cohesion.
Across Victoria it is the local masthead in print and online that turns up to council meetings, scrutinises public decisions, documents community life and ensures local voices are heard.
A landmark Deakin University study has confirmed that the Victorian Government’s weekly advertising commitment to regional and rural mastheads has been a highly successful and internationally regarded policy model, giving publishers the stability to invest in journalism, retain staff and strengthen their civic role.
The research surveyed 85 Victorian Country Press Association mastheads and found that almost four in five publishers say the policy has provided the confidence needed to sustain and grow their newsroom investment, helping ensure communities remain informed and connected.
The report makes clear that government messaging delivered through trusted local outlets remains vital to healthy democratic participation. As the authors explain: “Public notices and essential information should be delivered through reliable local media channels that function as a journal of public record, because this is fundamental to democratic participation”.
Star News Group managing director Paul Thomas said the Victorian Government deserved enormous credit for its leadership in this space.
“Victoria did something no other government had the courage or foresight to do,” Mr Thomas said. “It recognised that public interest jour-
nalism is civic infrastructure and backed it with a stable, practical and world-leading model. Other states are now following Victoria’s lead because the results speak for themselves.
“When a masthead is properly supported, in print and online, accountability thrives, participation increases and communities remain connected to the decisions that shape their lives.
“The Deakin report shows that Victoria has built a model that strengthens public interest journalism and gives communities confidence that trusted information will continue to be avail-
Jail for carjacking
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
An armed, drugged-up carjacker who was among a group that preyed on an Uber Eats driverdeliveringacheeseburgerinDoveton has been jailed.
Bailey Foehn, 22, pleaded guilty at the Victorian County Court to aggravated carjacking, possessing 1,4-butanediol, driving while suspended and possessing a prohibited weapon.
His drug-fueled co-offender Zoe Voice, then 22, made the Uber order for a Maccas burger on her phone just before 2am on 27 November last year.
It was part of an unsophisticated plan to lure and rob the victim in the street and under the cover of darkness, sentencing judge Wendy Wilmoth said on 31 October.
The driver was alone when an armed andmaskedFoehn–incompanywiththree others - demanded the driver’s phone and keys. The victim complied, thinking Foehn held a knife, which was later found to be an extendable baton.
Foehn then sped off in the delivery-driver’sToyotaYaris,withVoiceinthepassenger seat. The victim – an international student who had worked and saved hard for the car and phone – had tried to open the driver-side door. He was threatened by another maleinthegroup,holdingwhatappearedto be a knife or sword.
“If you try to argue with me, I’ll f*** you –so go away,” the male said.
The Yaris stopped several hundred metres away. Voice swapped into the driver’s seat due to Foehn being unable to control the car. Later that morning, police spotted Voice erratically driving the car at excessive speeds through several Cranbourne West streets.
Police used stop-sticks to deflate all four tyres of the Yaris, and pursued with lights and sirens. However Voice continued driving on deteriorating tyres, until coming to a stoponamedianstripinEvansRoad.Abottle of 1,4-butanediol was found in the car, which Foehn admitted was his.
In a police interview, Foehn stated he “didn’t intend to harm the bloke”.
Hedidn’tknowwhyhedroveoffwiththe victim’s car, but it was the “dumbest” thing he’d done.
Judge Wilmoth regarded Foehn’s offending as a “serious example of a serious offence”.
Atthetime,hewason‘ice’,GHBandcannabis and said to be trying to impress Voice and his peers with his offending.
able.”
The study also highlights a growing policy gap in Melbourne’s fast-growing metropolitan fringe areas, where mastheads play the same role as their regional counterparts but are not currently covered by the commitment.
“Growth corridors such as Berwick, Cranbourne, Wyndham and Brimbank are now the size of major regional cities,” Mr Thomas said.
“These residents depend on their local masthead in print and online for trusted information about planning decisions, council accountability, emergency updates and civic life, yet they fall outside the current policy even though the democratic need is identical.
“Victoria has shown leadership by creating the strongest regional news model in the country. The logical next step is extending that certainty to metropolitan fringe communities whose population growth means they now function exactly like regional centres.”
The Deakin report concludes that mandated advertising remains the most stable, efficient and effective way for government to support public interest journalism, far more reliable than shortterm grants or piecemeal schemes.
Mr Thomas said ensuring the policy evolved with population growth was the key to safeguarding journalism for the next generation.
“If the aim of the policy is to strengthen democracy and ensure credible public information reaches communities, then it should follow where communities are expanding. Metro-fringe Victorians deserve the same access to trusted mastheads in print and online as rural and regional Victorians.”
On the other hand, the victim “lost so much and still suffers emotionally”, Judge Wilmoth noted. Left out on the street without a car or phone at night, he called out for help. No one came out to assist, so he knocked on a resident’s door to call triple-0.
Sincetheincident,hehadfeltcompletely aloneandunprotected,JudgeWilmothsaid. Thethreatswithaweaponstillplayedonhis mind each day, no longer left his home at night and slept with lights on.
He did not recover his stolen phone, which he is still paying off.
Voice,23,hadbeensentencedon30June by Judge Wilmoth to three years and three months’ jail, with an 18 month non-parole period, for carjacking and dangerous driving while pursued by police.
Foehn, being guilty of aggravated carjacking, faced a mandatory non-parole period of three years.
However, Judge Wilmoth accepted there were special circumstances due to Foehn’s mental impairment, and waived the mandatory term. His impairment included a complex mix of ADHD, paranoia and depressive disorders – which a psychologist stated were significant factors in his offending. They contributed to impulsivity, poor decision making and a heightened need for peer approval. His childhood deprivation, youthfulness and difficulties coping in adult remand were also noted.
Foehn was jailed for three-and-a-half years, including a two year non-parole period. He was ordered to compensate the victim $1074.
Road disruptions. (File)
Professor Kristy Hess from Deakin University undertook a study into regional media with colleague Alison McAdam.
Labor’s Gen Z pick for seat
By Corey Everitt
The Labor Party will attempt to retain the seat of Pakenham with Alessandra Soliven, a Gen Z rising star in the party, still fresh out of university.
The 23-year-old was pre-selected recently by the Pakenham branch to contest the 2026 state election for the Labor Party.
Ms Soliven is being tasked with retaining one of the most marginal seats in Victoria and succeeding current sitting member Emma Vulin. If elected, Soliven could be the youngest MP ever in Victorian history at the age of 24, beating the current record holder Premier Allan who was first elected at the age of 25.
Ms Vulin said the young candidate will bring generational change if elected.
“I welcome the endorsement of Alessandra Soliven as Labor’s candidate for Pakenham in the state election next year. As someone who grew up in the south east, she understands the outer suburbs and what areas like ours need,” Ms Vulin said.
“She will bring generational change and fresh ideas to carry on the work we have done for the Pakenham District.”
Ms Soliven was born in the Philippines and grew up in the South East. Attending Alkira Secondary School, where she was valedictorian.
She was studying at the University of Melbourne in 2023 and has worked as an organiser for the Australian Services Union.
Her political experience includes serving as Women’s Officer for the University of Melbourne Student Union (UMSU) in 2023.
She hails from the Socialist Left faction, she was elected at UMSU under the National Labor Students ticket Stand Up!
Ms Soliven also previously worked in the office of Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards.
Ms Richards spoke about Ms Soliven in a speech in Parliament in 2023.
“Alessandra Soliven, who I was so pleased to have gotten to know when I met Alessandra as the valedictorian at Alkira Secondary College, who came and worked with me in the electorate office, took on every task imaginable and did not just take on the tasks but really took them on with great passion and care,“ Ms Richards said.
In a social media post last year, Ms Richards said she watched in “awe“ as Ms Soliven spoke about her union organising at the 2024 State Labor Conference.
The seat of Pakenham was won by Ms Vulin in 2022 by just 300 votes, the second most marginal seat in the State.
Police monitor 45 young burglars and ‘influencers’
In the wake of a series of “truly horrible” recent agg burgs, Victoria Police has anounced it’s monitoring a list of 45 young chronic burglars and “influencers” said to be driving significant crime across Melbourne,
The 45 have connections with almost 2,000 known burglars and car thieves in Victoria, police say.
Twenty-five of them are in custody, while the remaining 20 are under close police watch.
Each of the people is under the age of 25, with 65 per cent under the age of 18.
Victoria Police Deputy Commissioner Bob Hill noted several “truly horrible incidents” involving homes invaded by armed intruders in recent days, including in Clyde.
“These incidents have rightly disturbed the Victorian community and despite 40-plus years in policing, it still shocks me that anyone thinks it’s acceptable to threaten another person with a knife in their own home or smash down their front door in the middle of the night.
“While our intel continues to show that almost 99 per cent of aggravated burglaries have no physical violence, one of these experiences is too many.
“Your home should be your castle and the sad reality for those impacted by these incidents is this will no longer feel like it’s the case.”
Southern Metropolitan Regional Crime Squad detectives are investigating two likely linked incidents in Brighton East and Clyde in the early hours of Monday 27 October.
At1.30amonMonday27October,twomasked males armed with a knife forced entry into a Brighton East home, before they were interrupted by a 76-year-old woman who was home.
Demands were made for her car keys, before another person home at the time intervened and
Deputy Commissioner Robert Hill.
the offenders fled in a white Toyota Prado. Shortly afterwards at 2.50am in Clyde, there was another attempted home invasion where offenders attempted to break in, before being disturbed by occupants of the home and fleeing towards a vehicle.
The offenders, armed with knives, then
chased occupants back into the property before fleeing in a white Toyota Prado.
In addition to these incidents, two police officers were also injured while responding to an aggravated burglary in Sandhurst early on Thursday 30 October.
Police say two males in an alleged stolen
white Ford Ranger rammed the police vehicle, as the officers on patrol observed two alleged aggravated burglars running from a residence about 1am.
A senior constable from Southern Metro Region was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening-injuries and an acting sergeant from Southern Metro Region, suffered minor injuries.
The police car sustained significant damage to both the front and driver’s side.
No arrests have been made and investigations into the incident remain ongoing.
Victoria Police states it’s made almost 1700 arrests in the past year as part of its nightly Operation Trinity operation targeting burglars and car thieves across Melbourne’s east and south-east.
This month, Operation Trinity units have pulled over more than 3,500 cars, and recovered more than 100 stolen cars.
“From dusk to dawn every night, frontline police and specialist units such as the Public Order Response Team and Dog Squad are swarming Melbourne’s suburbs targeting home burglars and car thieves as part of Operation Trinity while the Air Wing watches from above,” Dep Comm Hill said.
“This has been the most well-resourced policing operation in Victoria over the past two and a half years – highlighting the severity of this offending.
“Outside of Operation Trinity, we are also proactively monitoring and targeting Victoria’s worst burglars.
“We know there are 45 chronic offenders or people who influence others to break into homes that are firmly in our sights.”
Any information on these incidents to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic. com.au
Alessandra Soliven. (Supplied)
Labor select former CEO
By Corey Everitt
The Labor Party has selected a local executive who is no stranger to politics, Chris Buckingham, to lead its attempt to retain the most marginal seat in Victoria.
Mr Buckingham was preselected for the seat of Bass this week, where he will attempt to win the seat in the 2026 state election after current MP Jordan Crugnale announced her intention not to recontest.
“Jordan Crugnale has done an incredible amount of work for the people of Bass over the last seven years and will continue to do so over the next 12 months,” Mr Buckingham said.
“The community will reap the benefits for many years to come.”
Many may recognise him from his previous attempt at federal politics, when he ran for the former seat of McMillan in 2016.
Others may know him from his various roles over the years, such as CEO of the former Casey Cardinia Libraries.
“I am determined to retain the seat of Bass and will advocate on behalf of the electorate to ensure our community continues to prosper and grow,” Mr Buckingham said.
“Fairness goes to the very heart of how I work. No one should be held back and no one should be left behind.”
He is currently the CEO of consultancy firm The Fair Co. after spending two years leading the Latrobe Valley Authority, now known as Regional Development Victoria.
Bass is held by only 200 votes after Ms Crugnale won a second term in 2022.
Ms Crugnale has known Mr Buckingham for some time and she welcomed his pre-selection.
“I am so pleased that Chris Buckingham has been endorsed as our Labor candidate for Bass,” Ms Crugnale said.
“I have known Chris for many years now. He is grounded, a great listener, smart and brings an insurmountable amount of energy and drive to work with and for community to bring about positive change for the better.
“Chris will work his heart out to deliver the projects, programs and supports already underway and be an active and fierce advocate to ensure community priorities and needs are voiced and delivered so our growing, diverse and wonderful community can live and be well.
“I very much look forward to working with him over the next 12 months.”
Smooth move offer and final homes at Officer
Over-50s urged to act fast as Officer Lifestyle Estate nears sell-out.
Over-50s in Melbourne’s south-east have one last chance to join the thriving Officer Lifestyle Estate, with the community now down to its final homes.
Developed by Lincoln Place, the over 50s neighbourhood has grown into a thriving hub for those seeking an independent lifestyle and social
connection. Residents enjoy a range of facilities including a clubhouse, swimming pool, gym, library, bowling green and new pickleball courts. Many also take part in resident-led activities, with an active social committee, book clubs and a community bus helping newcomers quickly feel at home.
To make the move easier, Lincoln Place is offering a $5,000 boost towards moving costs for a limited time. With demand surging as the estate
enters its final release, this exclusive incentive is designed to help new residents settle in with ease.
To access the moving money, buyers must place a deposit before 30 November 2025.
Locals are invited to experience the community firsthand at the monthly Open for Inspections on the first Thursday of each month, where visitors can tour the homes, explore the amenities, meet the team, and enjoy complimentary morning tea.
Homes in the community are designed with ease and comfort in mind, featuring practical layouts, and convenient touches like wall ovens.
Popular designs such as the Kansas and Colorado, starting from $540,000, combine practicality with style – making downsizing not just sensible, but an exciting opportunity to rightsize into a brand-new home.
Learn more at lincolnplace.com.au
Chris Buckingham will run in the seat of Bass for the Labor Party. (Supplied)
SLICE OF LIFE
Q&A
Can you tell me a moment that truly affirmed your decision to become a nurse?
My mother was a nurse for many years at both Berwick Hospital and Kooweerup. I obviously inherited the nurse gene and able to pass on the nurse gene to my son. I was always going to do something medical and ended up in nursing. What’s been the most rewarding thing for you? When you reflect on 40 years, what are you most proud of?
The ability to make a positive difference to somebody’s life in what can be both the best and worst times of their life.
Probably the difference I’ve been able to make to somebody’s life at the time. and also just constant, giving back to the community in a way that I can.
What are some lessons you’ve learnt about yourself, your career and hospital?
The hospital is constantly adapting to survive. Myself, pretty much the same. Constantly, despite being 40 years, that’s just a number. The thing is what you do with it and whether you can evolve to, to grow within that time. The nursing profession. Although we could always do with more nurses, that’s a given. I think the amount of training and the skills that are required by nurses is so much more than they used to be. The technical skills and the computer skills are way more than it ever used to be.
What are some ways you’ve mentored the younger nurses and what advice do you normally give to them?
Don’t be deterred if one day is a bad day. Tomorrow is a whole fresh day and just because one person upsets you, there’s a lot more people out there that you make a difference to.
with long-time nurse Sally Joustra from Berwick Hospital
Is there a patient or story that has stayed with you over the years?
THREE … ways to commemorate
1
Attend a service
RSLs will be hosting many services on Remembrance Day. You can find your local and participate in the minute of silence or stick around for morning tea with members.
2
Hold your own minute’s silence Many will be busy at work, but you can still pay your respects by holding your own minute’s silence at 11am. Whether it’s at work or at home, you’ll be joined by thousands across the country and eventually millions across the world.
3
Too many to list. Delivering babies, that’s always a special moment. Caring for both people I’ve worked with and people I’ve known outside of the
Always looking positive towards what you can and can’t do. There’s lots of choices within this industry for nurses and students. Nursing has many diverse applications and not everybody works in hospitals. Some do the district nursing, some work in the aged care sector. You will find the nurses and the students will find what suits them best.
hospital is a special honour. What are your hopes for the future of the hospital and your nursing profession? I hope that there’s going to be enough skilled nurses to look after me and my daughter if I ever stop working. The hospital can keep on its strength and its evolution to provide the best care at all times.
Buy a poppy, support veterans RSLs will be out raising funds before, during and after Remembrance Day. Buying a poppy, badge or any other item will support that subbranch to support veterans. You can find them on the day or you can find them at supermarkets with their own stalls. Keep in touch with your local sub-branch to see where you can support.
5 $5
Sally Joustra.
Regional park plan out
By Violet Li
Parks Victoria has released the Clyde Regional Park Draft Master Plan and is inviting community feedback.
Bounded by Ballarto Road to the north, the 120-hectare park sits next to planned new housing in Clyde South and a future City of Casey sports precinct.
The draft master plan has scaled back the developments envisioned in the 2023 Strategic Directions Plan.
Several features first canvassed two years ago have been altered or removed following “a comprehensive review process that included project background analysis, site assessments, discussions with key stakeholders, and the progression of design development”.
On the south side, a proposed lake and canoe launch are no longer included.
Park Victoria says it is to ensure the park is “operationally viable and provide a high level of safety”.
A cafe has been replaced with the potential for mobile food and beverage vendors to provide opportunities to support local businesses and support a flexible and sustainably activated visitor area.
Visitor areas have been relocated in response to site investigation results to ensure “appropriate protection of plants, animals, and cultural heritage values”.
The main visitor area has been located centrally in the park, while the secondary areas have been located to the north and south. All visitor areas are accessible off Graham Road to minimise road infrastructure requirements.
Community and learning spaces elements remain, but they have been integrated into the main visitor area. Facilities include a park shelter to support community gatherings and events, along with landscaped areas designed to enable educational and hands-on learning experiences.
A formal events space has been re-cast as a flexible open lawn in the main visitor area, and walking and cycling trails are aligned to protect sensitive areas while connecting to future neighbourhood paths.
According to the draft master plan, the park has different precincts, including visitor areas, the Clyde Creek corridor, the woodlands, and the open woodlands.
The draft master plan does not propose any change for the Clyde Creek but supports and advocates for its renaturalisation (by others).
The woodlands will be central to the park’s restoration efforts, enhancing the main and secondary visitor areas through extensive replanting and habitat regeneration in the north and east of the park.
The open woodlands, located in the south, are remnants of the park’s previous agricultural use, dominated by non-native grasses.
The draft plan proposes to retain the character of this landscape while introducing clusters of native trees and shrub species, which will provide additional shade for picnicking and other activities.
As for the physical site considerations, hydrology is one of them.
Clyde Regional Park sits on land that was
once part of the extensive Cardinia and Koo Wee Rup Swamp system. Over time, this landscape was drained and converted for agriculture and housing, reshaping its natural water patterns.
Today, according to the draft, the park’s very flat terrain and artificial drainage lines continue to influence how water moves across the site.
The area is naturally wet and susceptible to flooding, and future planning and park design will focus on retaining surface water in ways that both support natural ecosystems and
manage stormwater effectively.
Ecology also frames the park’s long-term works program.
Surveys cited in the draft identify 72 animal species and 45 plant species, including threatened fauna such as the Southern Brown Bandicoot, Grey-headed Flying Fox and White-throated Needletail, with potential habitat for Growling Grass Frog and Dwarf Galaxias.
While the landscape has been heavily modified by agriculture and weeds, the park supports two small patches of remnant na-
tive vegetation: Swamp Scrub and Spikesedge Wetland, which provide important structures for native animals.
The draft plan states that a staged weed management strategy will be required, prioritising remnant native vegetation and linear habitat corridors currently used by native animals.
To submit your feedback on the draft master plan, visit: engage.vic.gov.au/project/ clyde-regional-park/participate
The submission closes on 3 December.
Artist’s impression of the future Clyde Regional Park. (Parks Victoria)
Local services on Remembrance Day
Remembrance Day is next Tuesday. Here is a list of local commemorations. Bunyip
· When: 11 November, 10.40am
· Where: Bunyip War Memorial – Main St and High St, Bunyip Emerald
· When: 11 November, 10.30am
· Where: Cenotaph on Main St, Emerald VIC 3782 (near the Emerald Commonwealth Bank) Kooweerup
· When: 11 November, 10.45am
· Where: Cenotaph, Cochrane Park, Rossiter Road, Kooweerup Longwarry
· When: 11 November, 10.45am
· Where: The Cenotaph at Memorial Park Longwarry – Bennett Street, Longwarry Drouin
· When: 11 November, 10.45am
· Where: Drouin War Memorial Park – 116 Princes Way, Opposite Railway Station, Drouin Pakenham
· When: 11 November, 10.45am
· Where: Pakenham Library – Cnr. John & Henry Streets, Pakenham
· Please note there will be a lunch following the service at the Railway Hotel, 153 Main Street. Warragul
· When: 11 November, 10.20am
· Where: Warragul War Memorial – Cnr Smith and Victoria Street, Warragul
Pause a minute to remember
Each year, at 11am on 11 November—the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month—we pause to honour all who have served, and those who gave their lives, in war and peacekeeping operations.
On this day in 1918, the guns of the Western Front fell silent after more than four years of devastating conflict. Germany’s signing of the Armistice marked the end of the First World War and gave birth to this day of remembrance.
The Shrine’s architecture plays a pivotal role on Remembrance Day. At exactly 11am, the Ray of Light illuminates the word Love on the Stone of Remembrance in the Sanctuary, marking the precise moment the Armistice was signed. This moving alignment can be viewed again by the public at midday.
All are invited to attend the Victorian State Remembrance Day Service at the Shrine. Bookings are not required, but please note that seating is limited.
· Victorian State Remembrance Service
· 10.30am Tuesday 11 November
· Second World War Memorial Forecourt
· Shrine of Remembrance
Pakenham Football Club
Cockatoo
· When: 11 November, 10.30am
· Where: Cockatoo RSL, 20 Belgrave-Gembrook Rd, Cockatoo
· Morning tea provided following service. Dandenong
· When: 11 November, 10.50am
· Where: Cnr Lonsdale St & Clow St, Dandenong Cranbourne
· When: 11 November, 10:50am
· Where: Greg Clydesdale Square, Cranbourne Berwick
· When: 11 November, 10.30am
· Where: Berwick Memorial Statue, Cnr of High St & Clyde Rd, Berwick
From The Committee, Players, Sponsors, Members & Supporters of the Pakenham Football Club.
Remembering the brave service Men & Women who served for our Country and fought for our Freedom
Local RSL branches are hosting Remembrance Day services. (File)
Accused facing 18 charges
A man is facing 18 charges after two police officers were injured and a police vehicle was rammed in Sandhurst on the morning of Thursday 30 October.
Two officers were on patrol when they observed two males allegedly running from a residence on Ethereal Way about 1am.
The pair allegedly got into a white Ford Ranger before police followed the vehicle into Toporoa Court.
The Ford was parked in a driveway, and the police parked behind them.
Both officers exited their vehicle and approached the driver.
The Ford allegedly rammed the police car, causing significant damage to the vehicle.
It is alleged that the passenger from the Ford fled the scene on foot.
The driver of the Ford allegedly sped off, causing one officer to fall to the road and the other to take swift evasive action.
A senior constable from the South Metro Region was taken to the hospital with non-lifethreatening injuries, and an acting sergeant, also from the South Metro Region, suffered minor injuries.
Investigators allege the same two males were involved in an aggravated burglary at a premises on Ethereal Way earlier in the night, and the Ford displayed registration plates stolen from a Bentleigh East address earlier in the week.
Frankston Crime Investigation Unit detectives arrested a 20-year-old man on the afternoon of Friday 31 October.
The Frankston North man was charged with 18 offences, including two counts of aggravated intentional exposure of police officer to risk by driving, assault police, recklessly cause injury, assault with weapon, reckless conduct endangering life, theft of motor vehicle and aggravated burglary.
He appeared before Melbourne Magistrates’
Court on Sunday 2 November, where he was remanded in custody to reappear on 6 February. Investigators are working to determine the identity of a second alleged offender.
Senior Constable Brooke Jeffrey from Frankston Crime Investigation Unit said: “We wish to thank the public for their help and for providing footage in relation to this matter.
BUSINESS IN FOCUS
“We thank the residents of Sandhurst and members of Ambulance Victoria who came to the assistance of our officers the night of the incident.”
Gippsland’s biggest display village set to launch
The next chapter of Warragul Crownlea is set to unfold on Saturday 8 November, with the highly anticipated official launch of the estate’s brandnew Display Village — and locals are invited to be part of the celebration.
The free community event will feature 12 beautifully presented homes from some of Australia’s leading builders, alongside a full day of entertainment including free amusement rides, live performances, roving entertainers, free face painting, and food trucks.
“This is more than just the launch of a display village,” said Trish Castle, Managing Director of Crownlea. “It’s a celebration of the community we’re building here, and a chance for families to
experience the vision of Crownlea first-hand.”
The event has been designed as a vibrant street party — complete with giveaways, family zones, and a Crownlea Street Pass, where visitors collect stamps from each display home to enter the draw to win a cubby house, drawn live at 2pm.
Located along Claremont Drive, the display village will become a central hub for the growing estate, offering inspiration, design and guidance for future homeowners.
The event runs from 11:00am to 3:00pm and is open to all.
For updates and to RSVP, head to the Warragul Crownlea Facebook page.
Warragul Crownlea is set to celebrate its official launch in November. (Supplied)
BOOK NOW FOR CHRISTMAS FUNCTIONS
The magic of Christmas
Melbourne – get ready, because Santa’s sleigh is making a very special stop this year… and it’s landing right at Caulfield Racecourse.
Melbourne’s Christmas Wonderland - 28 November - 24 December 2025 at the Caulfield Racecourse.
Back by overwhelming demand, the magic returns this Christmas with everyone’s favourite Christmas event, Melbourne’s Christmas Wonderland. This much-anticipated event is set to captivate the hearts of visitors once again, offering an enchanting three hour experience like no other.
Melbourne’s Christmas Wonderland is an immersive, walk-through experience where every moment of Christmas has been beautifully brought to life. Every jingle, every bell, and every HO HO HO will create the most wonderful memory, reminding visitors of why the magic of Christmas is still the most prolific of all.
Advisable for children 10 and under. Visitors to this amazing Wonderland will experience:
· Magical Experience: Immerse yourself in everything Christmas under The Grand Big Top. The event is filled with beautiful decorations, lights, trees and so much more.
· Care Bears: The Care Bears are coming to Melbourne’s Christmas Wonderland! Walk through the new Care Bears Wish Land - packed with inflatables, a huge decorated Christmas Tree and Care Bears characters ready for a meet and greet.
· Live Show: Each session includes a live show featuring Care Bears, international circus acts, Santa and Mrs Claus.
· Santa Photos: No trip to the Christmas Wonderland is complete without a photo with the big man himself.
(Note - extra fee applies) Make sure to grab your gift on your way out.
· Roller Skating: Swap your shoes for skates and have some rollin’ fun on our roller-skating rink.
· Mrs Claus’ Storytelling Village: Join Mrs Claus and celebrate Christmas with some of your favourite carols and stories.
· Photo Opportunities: Snap a selfie in one of the many magical selfie photo area’s under The Grand Big Top.
· Rudolph’s Barnyard: Say hello and take a selfie with the animatronic reindeer in Rudolph’s Barnyard.
· North Pole Post Office: Write and send off your letter to Santa at the North Pole Post Office. Not sure what to write? Our special letter-writing elves will be there to lend a helping hand.
· Meet The Grinch: The Grinch will be Visting for Family Photos at his Grinch Land (Note: this is a paid Activity).
· Refreshments: Delight your tastebuds with a selection of hot/cold food and drinks.
· Jumping Castles: Get ready to jump into the
Christmas spirit on our three Christmas and candy themed jumping castles.
· Christmas Carnival Games: All the fun of the fair with full themed Christmas Fun Fair every child wins a prize.
(Note: extra fee applies)
· Children’s Rides: Spin your way through the Teacup Ride, ride the horses on a small Carousel and travel around on the Mini Train.
· Roving Characters: Meet Rudolph and Care Bears. They’re all frantically preparing for the busiest time of the year, but never too busy to say hello and stop for a selfie with you.
· The Factory: Ignite your creative spark at The Factory where you can create your own foam gingerbread house decoration.
· Christmas Craft Village: Unleash your creativity at our Christmas Craft Village where you can decorate your own Christmas stocking.
· Care Bears Christmas Village: Design your own Christmas plaster Christmas tree ornament.
This magical interactive walk-through adventure features everything that’s most loved about Christmas to create unforgettable memories and rekindle the joy of Christmas.
So don’t miss the chance to make this Christmas the most magical one yet – Melbourne’s Christmas Wonderland is ready to jingle all the way back into your hearts.
Event Details:
· Location: Caulfield Racecourse - Station Street, Caulfield (enter via Gate 21)
· Dates: Friday November 28 – Wednesday December 24 (Christmas Eve!)
· Tickets via www.ticketmaster.com.au or phone
Melbourne Christmas Wonderland directly on 0400 881 007.
Readers embrace Halloween
Halloween filled our streets, homes, libraries, shopping centres with creativity and festive energy on October 31. Children, adults, and even pets showcased imaginative costumes, from superheroes to classic monsters, capturing the spirit of the holiday.
Local families went trick-or-treating through neighborhoods decorated with pumpkins, cobwebs, and lights. “It’s wonderful to see the kids’ faces light up as they go door to door,” a local parent said. “Halloween brings everyone together in such a fun and safe way.”
Some households hosted pumpkin carving contests or small Halloween parties, while many shared their costumes online, spreading the celebration beyond the neighbourhood.
October 31 reminds everyone that Halloween is a cherished tradition that brings joy to the entire community.
The Gazette extends heartfelt thanks to all locals and photographers for their enthusiasm, creativity, and contributions that made this year’s Halloween celebration so memorable.
Huxley, Alara and Adelaide.
Charlotte 2, Mackenzie 4.
Isabella Hood’s child.
Carlea Ernst.
Azaiah.
Raydan. Rjea, Reme and Rome.
Wellbeing Team at Cardinia Community Age Care in Officer.
Luca, Liliana and Daniela Cachia.
Justin and Layla.
Zac, Krista, Mark and Blake and Cramer as Labubus.
Elektra.
Charlotte and Olivia.
Summah.
Layla, Willow and Ryder. McKinley, Tanya and Akayla.
Jax Cachia.
Liana Taff’s child.
Elliott the Frankenstein.
Roman. Alaska.
Shane Kerr. Elijah Tucker.
Rebecca Raegar’s children.
Evie Tymensen and Skye Wouters.
Amber 8. Luke Skywalker with R2D2 and Jaures Tiangco.
Jazmin Mckay’s children.
Oliver Manifold and Timothy Manifold.
Akayla and Millie (the class teddy).
Aubrey and Dolly.
Vikkie and Elektra.
Kate’s cat.
3.5 year old Miles.
Lachy, Rhiannan, Cohen, Hudson, Bec and Nellie.
Isaiah. Spencer and Ava-Rose.
Cailyn Mawhinney.
Stefi.
Kelly Asmus-Albornoz.
Vital expansion welcomed
By Violet Li
A Cranbourne general practitioner (GP) said the Federal Government’s expanded bulk billing incentive would help the clinic keep the critical care amid rising costs.
From 1 November, the scheme has been expanded to support general practices to bulk bill any patient with a Medicare card. Previously, the incentives were only available to children under 16 and concession card holders.
The $7.9 billion overhaul of the bulk-billing system was announced earlier this year as Labor’s election commitment.
GP Dr Mark Overton from Our Medical Cranbourne said the expanded incentive would help the clinic to keep bulk billing for the patients in the area.
The clinic has already offered bulk billing for the consultations ever since it was opened about seven years ago.
“Costs are rising all the time, staff, cleaning, and rental. It makes it harder to be able to bulk-bill,” Dr Overton said.
“What we’ve seen locally is that a lot of other clinics in the area have switched away from bulk billing to private billing, and that’s been really hard on patients.
“But the new incentive means that we’ll be able to keep doing the bulk billing.”
Unlike private billing, where patients pay upfront and then claim a rebate from Medicare, bulk billing means the GP bills Medicare directly and patients pay nothing out of pocket.
But in recent years, many clinics have stopped bulk billing because the rebate hasn’t kept up with inflation or clinic expenses such as rent, wages, and utilities.
According to Our Medical, the new incentive increases Medicare rebates for bulk-billed GP consults by around $20, on top of the existing approximately $40.
Dr Overton noted that doctors had seen patients in the area delaying care if they had to pay extra money to visit them.
“The expansion is really important because GPs are the primary access point for patients into the healthcare system,” he said.
“If patients delay coming to see us, and then their problems get worse, and then they get sicker, and then they end up in the hospi tal, and it’s just bad for everybody.”
Our Medical CEO Henry Batemen said the
bulk billing expansion is the most significant update to universal primary healthcare in a decade.
“It is ensuring bulk billing is available to more Australians and sustainable for doctors,” he said.
The Federal Government aims for nine in 10 GP visits to be bulk billed by 2030, tripling
1,000 GP clinics have indicated that they are going to transition to become 100 per cent bulk billing clinics, including many in the south east.
Bruce MP Julian Hill said: “Doctors and practices are making the shift because they know it is good for patients, and it is good for their bottom line.
Cranbourne GP Dr Mark Overton said the expanded incentive would help his clinic to keep bulk billing for the patients in the area. (Supplied)
WHAT’S ON
Outdoor bootcamp
Work through different stations and exercises in this outdoor bootcamp to improve your strength and fitness, all while having fun. Suitable for all fitness levels.
• Weekly, Fridays from 7-28 November 10am11am at Banjo Park, Grazing Way, Clyde North. Register at trybooking.com/events/landing/1475166
Casey Carers Cuppa
Meet other carers and talk to our carer peer support team who all have lived experience. Ask us about what services and supports are available. Presented by Different Journeys, specialists in the neurodivergent space.
• Fridays 7 and 21 November and 5 December 10am-12pm at Old Cheese Factory, 34 Homestead Road, Berwick; free event. No bookings necessary. Details: 0490 774 068
Bargain bazaar
Lots of bargains and treasures. Clothing, cakes, toys, books, plants, craft, sausage sizzle, tea and coffee. Fundraising for Casey Choir.
• Saturday 8 November 10am-2pm at Arthur Wren Hall, Stuart Avenue, Hampton Park.
Casey African Food and Music Festival
African food stalls, music, dance, and storytelling. Live performances such as Mbira, drumming, dance, and musical showcases with DJs on rotation. Arts, crafts, fashion and kids’ interactive activities.
• Sunday 9 November 12pm-5pm at Old Cheese Factory, Homestead Road, Berwick; free event. Wiser driver program
New for all seniors over the age of 55. Refresher on road rules and road safety issues. Improve your confidence, independence and road safety skills.
• Mondays 10 November-1 December (participants must attend all four sessions) at Timbarra Community Centre, Parkhill Drive, Berwick. Booking essential: trybooking.com/DFOUT Meditation workshop
Guided mindfulness and music-based sessions promoting rest, healing, and insight. Bring a mat, cushion, blanket, and comfy clothes.
• starts Monday 10 November for three fortnightly sessions at Balla Balla Community Centre. Bookings: balla.balla.com.au or 5990 0900
Remembrance Day
Remembrance Day services are being held across Casey to commemorate those who have bravely served our country.
• Tuesday 11 November, 11am at Arthur Wren Hall, 16-20 Stuart Avenue, Hampton Park (10.45am start); Pearcedale Public Hall, 45 Pearcedale Road, Pearcedale (9am start); Berwick cenotaph, cnr High Street and Clyde Road (9am start) and Cranbourne Cenotaph, Greg Clydesdale Square, High Street, Cranbourne (10.30am start). Morning Melodies
Our featured entertainers will sing the songs you know and love. Share a morning of music, a cuppa, scones with jam and cream and make new friends along the way,
• second Tuesday of month (next 11 November) 10.30am-11.45am at Balla Balla Community
Centre, 7–9 Selandra Boulevard, Clyde North; $7.
Bookings: 5990 0904
Pollinator Night
Learn about and take a close-up look at our pollinators, big and small. Includes a Myuna Farm train ride to the grey-headed flying fox wetland colony, planting a seed and making an insect hotel. Optional dress code - dress up as a pollinator such as a bee, bird, butterfly, bat, possum and lorikeet.
• Thursday 13 November 4.30pm-6.30pm at Myuna Farm, Kidds Road Doveton; free event. Register: trybooking.com/DGQCU
Silent Disco in the Park
Break out your best dance moves and Spring into Summer at our silent disco at Wilson Botanic Park. Three music channels to choose from. Presented by City of Casey.
• Saturday 15 November 10am-2pm at Wilson Botanic Park Berwick; free event. Register at trybooking.com/DFTGH
Gardens for wildlife.
Enjoy a guided walk through the Australian Garden to learn all about the endangered Southern Brown Bandicoot. Learn how to transform your own garden into an oasis for wildlife including native bees, butterflies, birds. Includes a complimentary wildlife gardening booklet.
• Saturday 15 November 11am-12.30pm at Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne (meet at the visitor centre); $15/$12/$8 and $40 family (2 adults & 2 children)
Christmas cardmaking Workshop with Elizabeth from Passion for Papercraft. Experiment with techniques such as stamping, die cutting, paper punching.
• Saturday 15 November, Sunday 23 November & Saturday 29 November 10am-2.30pm at Timbarra Community Centre, 26 Parkhill Drive, Berwick; $35/$30 includes materials and a festive morning tea. Bookings essential: 9704 1863 or admin@berwicknc.com.au
Christmas Sweets with Chef Jodie
Create festive treats to share or gift. Week 1: Strawberry and Almond Tart. Week 2: Profiterole Wreath. Contains dairy, nuts, eggs, gluten and sugar. BYO apron & container.
• Wednesday 19 and 26 November 7pm-9pm at Balla Balla Community Centre. Bookings: balla. balla.com.au or 5990 0900.
Textile, E-Waste and Soft
Plastics Drop-Off
In celebration of National Recycling Week, City of Casey residents can recycle old clothes not suitable for the op shop, unwanted electronics, and soft plastics for free at this special drop-off event. Items must be clean, dry, and sorted into textiles, e-waste, and soft plastics. Household quantities only.
• Saturday 22 November 9am-2pm at Casey Works Centre, 30 Vesper Drive, Narre Warren; free event. Bookings essential at casey.vic.gov.au/ events/textile-e-waste-soft-plastics-drop-off-event Indoor Pickleball
Casual, indoor pickleball sessions. All equipment provided during this coach-free session.
• Mondays 7pm-8pm and Wednesdays 10am11am at Olive Road Sporting Complex, 2 Frawley Road, Eumemmerring; free cost, or Sundays
12.30pm-2.30pm at Vickerman Building, Casey Stadium, Cranbourne; $6.20 for two hours. Bookings: trybooking.com/events/landing/1343237 (Olive Road) or 5996 6052 (Casey Stadium). 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).
• Details: u3acasey.org.au, 0493 280 458 or caseyu3a@gmail.com
U3A Cranbourne
Social group for people over 50 with many interesting and creative activities. Gardens group, art and craft groups, calligraphy, scrabble, singing for fun, quilling, resin making, and card making, beginner ukuele and guitar, line dancing. Our membership fee of $50 per year entitles you to join as many classes as you wish.
• Details: www.u3acranbourne.org.au or 0493 991 919
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.
• Mondays 9am-11.30am and Wednesdays and Fridays from 9am-2.30pm at 41 Craig Road, Junction Village. Details: Garry, 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. 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.
• 1 Codrington St, Cranbourne. Details: Marilyn, 0432 107 590 or facebook.com/ groups/487808127399953
Narre Warren Senior Citizens Centre
A friendly seniors Club offering many activities, including dancing, garden group, indoor carpet bowls, table tennis, gentle exercises and friendly card games.
• main club day on Wednesdays, 9.30am-3pm at 192-196 Centre Road near the Narre Warren Station. Details: 9783 7112, 0426 736 467, or narrewarrenseniors@gmail.com
Blind Bight Community Centre
Craft gift making for adults, Tuesdays 12.30pm to 2.30pm; $3 per class. Playgroup, Wednesdays 10.30am-noon; $5 per family. Knit and crochet,
Wednesdays 12pm-2pm. Line dancing, Wednesdays 1pm-2pm; $10 per class.
• 42 Anchorage Dr, Blind Bight. Bookings: blindbightcommunitycentre.com.au
Casey Cardinia Life Activities Club
Weekly social activities with dancing, 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.
• Thursdays 2pm for socialising and low-key dancing at Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House at 21A Bemersyde Drive or Wednesdays 10am for coffee and chats at the new François cafe in front of Myer in Fountain Gate. Details: Gloria, 0468 363 616.
Combined Probus Club of Narre Warren
The club welcomes men and women for bowling, armchair travel, book clubs, walk and talk, happy snappers and cards.
• Details: Heather, hsims14@gmail.com
Berwick Springs VIEW Club
Affiliated with The Smith Family, the not-for-profit organisation raises funds for 10 Learning for Life students to assist with education expenses. Monthly lunches with a guest speaker, as well as casual morning tea and lunch for interested ladies.
• First Monday of each month, 11.15am at Berwick Springs Hotel function room. Details: Shirley, 0438 191 759 or berwicksprings.viewclub@ gmail.com
BADFolk Club
Berwick and District Folk Club meets on the third Friday of each month.
• Doors open at 6.30pm, with the music running from 7pm to 10pm with entry $15. Details: badfolkclub.org or Edward, 0418 535 264.
Craft classes
Join Berwick Activities Group’s Elizabeth to discover the world of papercraft and have a chat with like-minded people.
• Tuesdays 10am-noon at Timbarra Community Centre; $5 per class, all materials supplied. Details: admin@berwicknc.com.au or 9704 1863.
Chair dancing
Would you enjoy exercising from the comfort of your chair? Includes fun and uplifting songs and different styles and eras of music
• Wednesdays 10.45am-11.30am on Wednesdays at Timbarra Community Centre; $8 per session. Details: admin@berwicknc.com.au or 9704 1863.
DnD at Orana
Dungeons and Dragons (DnD) is an inclusive tabletop, fantasy, role-playing game.
• Second Saturday of each month, 1pm-9pm at Orana Community Place, 16/18 Playwright St, Clyde North. Details: Jonathan Whelan, thestoryweaver.dnd@gmail.com
Weekly badminton
• Mondays 7pm-9pm and Wednesdays 12pm2.30pm at Hallam Badminton Club, Frawley Road Recreation Reserve; $5.
Kirwan’s Cranbourne vow
By Violet Li
Greens candidate Matthew Kirwan says the Cranbourne corridor will be one of his top priorities if elected to represent the South-Eastern Metropolitan Region at next year’s Victorian State Election, arguing that the suburbs have been “neglected”.
Mr Kirwan, a former City of Greater Dandenong councillor who has contested multiple State and Federal elections for the Greens, said the 2026 election presents a real opportunity to return a Greens voice to the upper house for the south east.
“This seat is winnable for the Greens because we’ve done it before,” he said, referring to Nina Springle’s 2014 victory.
“With the Allan Government’s declining popularity, I see a real chance for the Greens to reclaim the seat.
“If you actually look at the polls, the Labor primary vote is significantly down. The reason why they’re ahead of the Liberal Party on a two-party preferred basis across the state is because of projected preference flows.”
Mr Kirwan said the suburbs in the South-Eastern Metropolitan Region, from Cheltenham to
Frankston and then across to Cranbourne, up to Berwick and then up to Wantirna South, show the neglect by the State Government. He used Cranbourne as an example.
“Cranbourne is just a good example because it’s not a marginal seat. It’s being neglected,” he said.
“A Labor government talks about working families, well, here are the working families. They’re not wealthy. They’re working hard to bring up their families, and they’re being neglected.
“You only have to go to the main street of Cranbourne to see that there’s been no public investment.
“They’re trumpeting this new community hospital, but it’s really just a shinier new building for the existing community health service. What Cranbourne needs is a major public hospital.”
He pointed out that within twenty years, the Cranbourne-Clyde corridor is projected to have 350,000 residents — yet locals still have to drive to Frankston, Dandenong or Berwick for hospital care.
Mr Kirwan argued the same neglect extends to schools and public transport.
“Schools in Clyde and Cranbourne East already have over a thousand students, and they’re overcrowded. The Cranbourne Line extension was promised 10 years ago - still hasn’t been built,” he said.
“We’ve got hundreds of thousands of people moving into this corridor without public transport and with poorly funded schools.”
He said the Greens would push for revitalising central Cranbourne, including better streetscapes, improved bus links from the railway station to the town centre, and new “third spaces” — public indoor areas where residents can gather without needing to spend money. As a Greens candidate, Mr Kirwan has also been motivated by issues like climate change.
“Cranbourne and its surrounding suburbs have some of the lowest tree coverage in Melbourne,” he said.
“It’s lower-income communities who will be most affected by extreme heat.
“Our tree canopy cover is worse in suburbs that have lower incomes. These people are trapped in their homes because they have poor public transport.
“Planting trees now will make a difference in twenty years — but we have to start.”
Mr Kirwan believed the investment he envisioned in the Cranbourne corridor could be funded by shifting priorities away from mega-projects like the Suburban Rail Loop (SRL).
“A project that has no business case. The Federal Government have actually said they don’t want to fund further until there’s a revised business case,” he said.
“It’s not the mega-projects that make the difference. An extension of a train line with only three stations can make a difference.”
Mr Kirwan said his working-class background in Keysborough and Noble Park helps him understand the challenges facing families pushed further south by rising housing costs. According to his engagement with the community, low-income people can no longer afford to live in Dandenong, so they move to Cranbourne, but the services haven’t followed them.
“If elected, Cranbourne and the surrounding suburbs would be my focus because it’s part of the south-east that’s most in need,” Mr Kirwan said.
Boosting their confidence
Public speaking puts fear into many people, but the Rotary Club of Pakenham has a project enabling Grade 5 and Grade 6 students the opportunity to conquer that fear at an early age.
The club’s 27th Primary School Public Speaking Competition was held on Tuesday 28 October at Meadowvale Village. 18 students from 9 primary schools from Pakenham Springs, Pakenham Hills, St Clare’s, Pakenham Consolidated, St Patrick’s, Pakenham Primary, Bridgewood Primary, Nar Nar Goon Primary and Minaret College, spoke in front of a large audience.
The students choose their own topics and did their own research and preparation.
Rotarian Ken Rook said, “Each year we continue to be amazed at range of topics, the obvious amount of research and the outstanding quality of the presentations, this year was again no exception”.
All participants receive a certificate with award winners receiving a plaque; all students receive a prize to assist them with their transition to secondary school. The schools of the top three place getters also receive a donation to assist them with their school programs.
All finalists were excellent and once again their choice of topics was amazing. Topics included, “Words are powerful“, “Beyond the glitter“, “Hola
from Mexico“, “What if the moon disappeared?“, “Mental Health“, “Why music matters“ “My regular Mondays“, “Talk to animals“, “Impact of social
media on kids“, “Global warming and its effects“, “Pollution“, “Friendship“ and “Being smart about social media“.
A celebration of diversity for club members
On 18 October a multicultural event was held at the Pakenham Senior Citizens club rooms with members appreciating the cultural diversity of African and Indian dances in their colourful costumes.
The children participated with singing and drums. The Gembrook line dancers also took to the stage.
The club calendar includes Hoi on the 2nd Tuesday this month, 11 November - 12.30pm to 3.30pm.
Trading table 1st and 3rd Mondays.
Exercise classes 10am Mondays.
Christmas lunch at Cardinia Park Hotel on Monday 24 November and the bus will leave at 11am.
The last Monday lunch before the Christmas break will be on Monday, 8 December with entertainment.
Club lunches will resume on 5 January, 2026 at the Pakenham Senior Citizens Clubroom, 38 James Street, Pakenham with interested parties invited to the rooms on any Monday morning. Rooms are for rent - telephone 5941 1297.
A celebration of diversity for club members at the last Pakenham Senior Citizens Club rooms.
Mr Rook said, “This event is a highlight of the Rotary year, and we congratulate all participants on the excellence of their presentations”.
Rotary Club of Pakenham President Ross Chudleigh, Rotarian Anne Taylor, Principal of St Clares Jodie Mallows (winning school) and Rotarian Ken Rook.
Representing St Clare’s - Jasmeen Kaur, 2nd placed student who spoke on “Laughter, the best medicine everyone forgets about“ and Rotarian Anne Taylor.
Representing St Clare’s -Tadhg Maskiell overall winner who spoke on “Ocean Conservation“ and Rotarian Anne Taylor.
Representing Pakenham Primary School - Onaya Perera - winner of the Rotary Club of Pakenham President’s Award who spoke on “It is OK to make mistakes“ and Rotary Club of Pakenham President Ross Chudleigh.
Rotary Club of Pakenham - Primary School\’s 2025 Public Speaking event.
Let’s Talk Sport
WITH DAVE NAGEL, JONTY RALPHSMITH, JUSTIN SCHWARZE AND BLAIR BURNS
Cricket care and wellbeing
JONTY: A sombre week in the cricketing world after what happened at the Ferntree Gully Cricket Club nets last Tuesday in circumstances that everyone in the cricketing fraternity can relate to. I think the great familiarity of the circumstances that caused Ben Austin to die playing the game he loved shook the cricket fraternity. Justin, I’ll start with you, your emotions and reactions when the news surfaced.
JUSTIN: There’s no word other than tragic. A young man loses his life doing something he loves. It’s scarily familiar, especially in Australian perspective after Phillip Hughes’ death a decade ago. Firstly, thoughts to everyone that was involved. There’s a family, there’s a cricket club, there’s also someone at the other end who has thrown that cricket ball. There’s so much entangled in this and the support has been immense but I think we need to wrap our arms around the surrounding people involved in this tragedy. It’s an emotional time for the sport and unfortunately it’s an eye-opener again.
JONTY: It’s had a ripple effect in the community. I was out with a couple of mates on Sunday who had our cricket club caps on and people came and spoke to us about cricket safety so it has certainly opened a conversation. But you mentioned the Phillip Hughes heartbreak. As tragic as it was and not to minimise what happened, community cricketers felt removed from it to a degree because of the extra speed and difficulty of cricket at that level. By this happening at a participatory level, it means those conversations now can’t be ignored. It hits much closer to home.
BLAIR: It was terrible. It makes me feel sick sitting here thinking about it. It was a terrible tragedy and everyone involved need thoughts and best wishes extended. I think it’s something that affects everyone who plays cricket. Lots of people play local cricket and the fact it has happened at that level impacts people in a different way. We take the field every week, you go to training and it’s not even a consideration or possibility so when something like that does happen to someone so young, it’s obviously a terrible time but hopefully they can get through it by uniting together.
JONTY: That’s a good segue to what I wanted to bring up next: unity. One thing that was really apparent with ben Austin was how involved in his cricket and footy clubs he was. He was that prototypical junior that lived for Saturday and loved his sport. The role of local sporting clubs as a whole is something that comes into conversation at a time like this as well. There are clubs coming together to support each other but Ben seemed to be one who used the platform and reach of local cricket to grow and meet people within and outside of cricket
JUSTIN: Sports clubs goes a lot deeper than the players. Community sport is a unifier that brings everyone together and that’s talking about um-
pires, supporters, sponsors. These are local towns that get around all of these things. There is so much that goes into sport. It’s an escape for some people from work but it’s also a hub for connectedness. Community sport is one of the most important things that we have and for a guy like Ben who is a sport fanatic to have touched so many lives shows there is so many different ways impact sport. It’s good to see all the rallying around thisclubs that aren’t even local to Ben are supporting the people around Ben which shows community sport is bigger than the game.
JONTY: IPL clubs and the Barmy Army were paying tribute to him. We have these concocted or built up rivalries that disappear when something like this happens.
BLAIR: Local sport plays a major role for everyone. I grew up in Hamilton in south west Victoria and you see the impact of local footy or cricket clubs on people’s belonging. It gives people another home. The world revolves around local sport in a large capacity. You only get past something this tragic when everyone bands together. The outpouring of support from all levels has no doubt been overwhelming in a positive way. The reach this has had and amount of people impacted shows how big the sport community is.
JONTY: The mental wellbeing side of sport is something that can be overlooked. The significant role it plays for kids to learn lessons of life in a relatively low stakes environment surrounded by, generally, good people can’t be understated and Ben was one of so many who would have felt that.
JUSTIN: Question without notice - we walked into the office this morning and a colleague said that it was a sad time for the cricket world but from an outsider’s perspective who doesn’t play cricket - for two people who play the sport, what is it like being participants of the sport and dealing with something like this.
JONTY: It’s interesting you ask that because on Sunday I had a net session with three or four people and every time we go down, we get the
whanger out. Now we ask ‘do we do that now’? Our club has just introduced a ban on sidearm mechanisms for the junior cricket club in light of the incident. What this event has noticeably done is start a conversation about cricket safety.
BLAIR: These sort of things I get shaken by. I remember being young when Phil Hughes passed away. I was very young and only just starting to play cricket but it did affect me for quite a while and it affects everyone differently. Last week I had some mates going for a net session on Friday and I decided not to go. And it wasn’t necessarily a worry about what could happen but it felt almost disrespectful because Ben had no decision and his life was cut short. Even further on that, it does start the safety discussion. In the days following, I was online looking for stem guards I could get for my helmet and I asked my brother if I could use his helmet because he does have that guard. Before this, we should have this already, but it does magnify those concerns about equipment and safety.
JONTY: What I think a lot of non-cricketers don’t realise is that they are not mandated at a community level; only recommended. It’s a piece of equipment that can be bought separately, it doesn’t come with all helmets. If you have to go out of your way to buy it, you might not be inclined to do so because you think ‘it’s not going to happen to me at a local level’. If someone asked me what percentage of people wear the stem guard, I would say 10 per cent.
BLAIR: I’d probably agree and probably moreso the firsts and seconds
JUSTIN: And this happened at training, it wasn’t even in a game. That’s another conversation that is started. If you’re batting, you should be wearing the full equipment at all times.
BLAIR: It should be made easier to get these neck guards. I don’t know the bridges to get that done but you would think that then much more people would be wearing them. Like Jonty said, with the climate as it is at the moment when you’re buying one, if you’re not playing professional cricket,
it’s probably not one of your main thoughts. The other thing is it shines a light on how dangerous the sidearms can be. I think from my own perspective, there has been times where people who haven’t used it much pick it up and you don’t think of it as a concern but you probably have to be introducing training within clubs about how to use them safely.
JONTY: Absolutely because a lot of people would be able to relate that the inexperienced user is very likely to give you a full toss. I don’t know why that is, but when it comes out, it tends to be early if you’ve had limited practice with them. The other thing is cricket net safety as a whole is probably brought into attention. We have something on our nets about net safety and etiquette. A lot of it is obvious but things like making sure you have your eyes on the ball at all times because that can be a hazard. There is also plenty of room at the back of a lot of nets for people to have a conversation, maybe that sort of thing should be done from the safety of the other side of the nets now.
BLAIR: For me, it feels unfair that nothing has happened to me in the nets. All clubs should probably understand the dangers of the net. People are often just chatting to each other about the week and someone has smashed one back and has everyone ducking for cover.
JONTY: Absolutely. I think we should touch on some of the tributes as well. Tooradin was one of the very first clubs not directly involved with Ben to post a tribute and obviously so many have followed. And our heart goes out to a couple of local clubs we cover with which he has had involvement with. Lyndale Cricket Club where he won a junior premiership a couple of years ago, and the Noble Park Football Club, where Ben’s Dad Jace is a former reserves coach. But I’m pretty certain that every club in the Casey Cardinia, Dandenong District and Warragul District wore black arm bands, had a minute silence, or put their bats out on Saturday, and in most cases, multiple of the above.
JUSTIN: Yes, the cricket community is definitely a special one in the sense that the support has been immense. To see community group posts with people having their bats out and photos of helmets and bats out at the Warragul District games shows that this hits everyone hard. So many people love the sport at a community level and are there with their mates at the end of the day. It’s touching to see the community come together on a day where it would have been completely understandable if you didn’t want to play or be involved in the sport.
BLAIR: I just wanted to add, my thoughts go out to the Mulgrave Cricket Club as well in the Eastern Cricket Association where I play. He was involved in so many clubs and that speaks to the person he was and how many people he touched with his life. It’s really good to see the outpouring of support and people rallying around.
Ben Austin will be remembered as a cricketer who played the game in the correct spirit. (Stewart Chambers: 514260)
Bauer guides Clyde home
By Justin Schwarze
A captain’s innings from Trevor Bauer guided Clyde to victory over Pakenham at Toomuc Reserve in round five of the Casey Cardinia Cricket Association (CCCA) Premier Division.
Bauer battled at the crease all afternoon and reached a hard-earned 102 not out from 243 balls.
At stumps chasing 184, the Cougars were 1/4, but the skipper quickly asserted himself and dug deep on day two.
Tristan Walton (4), Clyde’s night watchman, departed in the 12th over and Yashan Gunasinghage (10) couldn’t add much damage.
Then, a massive partnership between Bauer and Shamil Samarasinghe got the innings right back on track.
Bauer raised the bat for his half ton, followed by Samarasinghe.
Victory was well in sight for the visitors when Samarasinghe (57) departed but Clyde was at 4/143.
A couple more wickets fell but Bauer inched closer to the ton, bringing it up as the Cougars neared the target.
It was only fitting he also hit the winning runs, going unbeaten all day to fuel the triumph.
“It summed up the ebbs and flows of an innings,” Bauer said of his performance.
“Extremely proud of the knock but more so proud that we got the win, that’s as rewarding of a result that anyone could want.
“To start really well and then feel like you’ve had the handbrake pulled is a mental challenge.
“The longer you’re out there, the more opportunities you will get to score.
“It was a combination of sticking with it when the ebb hits and making the most of your luck as well.”
The win was a big bounce back for Clyde after the Cougars had dropped their previous two games.
It was a result defined by grit, as Clyde was
Trades & Services
forced to field with 10 fields for a large chunk of day one due to an injury.
“I think we were confident given we gave ourselves the opportunity to win the game,” Bauer said of the mindset after day one.
“We were able to bowl Pakenham out through adversity.
“We were able to band together and perform day one and I think leading into day two we were able to break down some targets.
“I think it’s huge.
“It looks like Tooradin, Kooweerup and Cardy are going to be very strong but fourth position is up for grabs.
“Bouncing back from the two losses against two of the three top sides I feel we were able to assess that.
“I’m proud of the guys for not going to panic stations, we’re still a good cricket side that is learning.
“We were able to take a step forward with the win against Pakenham.
“The takeaway is belief.”
Tooradin remains undefeated after handling business against Kooweerup.
Cal O’Hare (30) and Josh Lownds (37) laid the foundation for Lahiru Jayakody (89) to dominate at Rutter Park.
Wickets in quick succession derailed the middle order for the Seagulls, but Tyler Evans stopped the bleeding.
Evans batted wonderfully, pacing his way to 55 not out off 84 balls, bringing the hosts to victory at 6/261.
Cardinia secured itself the outright result and extra eight ladder points by thrashing Upper Beaconsfield.
The first innings belonged to Matt Welsh, the second belonged to Lachlan Volpe.
The Maroons resumed play on 2/19 and quickly Volpe shredded the batting order.
Dominic Evans (56) and Tyler Astle (24) provided the only resistance as the visitors posted
five ducks on their way to being rolled for 98. Cardinia got to its target in 24 overs, with Matt Welsh (49 not out) and Morteza Ali (21) doing majority of the scoring.
In round five, Kooweerup hosts Cardinia, Devon Meadows welcomes Clyde to town, Tooradin visits Officer and Pakenham travels to face Upper Beaconsfield.
Trevor Bauer fought his way to 102 not out in Clyde’s victory. (Stewart Chambers: 514281)
CASEY CARDINIA CRICKET ASSOCIATION ROUND 5 REVIEW
Cricket world in mourning
By Jonty Ralphsmith
Every cricket club has a Ben Austin.
The affable and talented youngster that uses the platform provided by community cricket to learn, experience and grow in a sporting and nonsporting setting.
A grin from ear to ear, an infectious personality and with a story to tell about the fun of last Saturday.
Austin had plenty of stories to tell already about this season, having played six games at various levels.
Victorian cricket was numbed by the 17-yearold’s death last week in a freak accident at the Ferntree Gully Cricket Club nets.
Pakenham is within 50 kilometres of the Ferntree Gully Cricket Club where the incident unfolded last Tuesday in front of several witnesses.
Undoubtedly, some within the Cardinia, Casey and Greater Dandenong communities will know or know of Austin.
Many more will weep.
The events that formed the backdrop of the tragedy occur at hundreds of different cricket clubs daily.
The familiarity of those circumstances makes the anguish more vivid.
Such an event provides a painful reminder of the impermanence of the seemingly permanent.
In winter, he was a star footballer.
He was interwoven into the fabric of Australia’s sporting culture.
Photos circling of Austin in recent days for older people evoke memories of their joyous sporting upbringing, with that relatable storyline tugging at the heartstrings.
‘It could have been me.’
The author of this story got to his cricket club last Tuesday set for a hauntingly similar evening to Austin.
A light net session involving throw downs and a sidearm mechanism while watching his local team play a t20 match.
The Australian men’s T20I team paid tribute to Austin at the MCG on Friday night with black arm bands and a minute silence, and organisations from as far as India and England felt his loss.
Several cricket clubs and individuals put their bats out to remember Austin.
Many clubs around the region posted their own tributes.
Casey Cardinia Cricket Association club Tooradin was one of the first across the state to pay their respects.
“Nothing like this should ever happen in sport and we are deeply saddened to hear of this news,” the statement read in part.
Dandenong District Cricket Association Club Lyndale, based in Noble Park, also posted a tribute, with Ben having represented the club in Under-14s.
“A talented cricketer with a promising career, his life ended doing what he loved,” the statement read in part.
Sympathies must also be extended to the Noble Park Football Club, with Ben’s father Jace a former reserves coach.
The shared grief highlighted the unity of sporting organisations. There is a constant tussle for on-field and financial results which can overshadow that the beating heart of local sporting organisations is its people.
Community sport brings people together. Cricket will go on without Austin, as he would want.
At the end of last season, Austin won the Ferntree Gully League perpetual trophy for juniors who show the correct attitude and dedication to playing the game in the right spirit in their representation of the association.
The material showing of respect that took place in some way at all level of cricket on Saturday was beautiful, touching and proved the power of sport.
But all who have felt Austin’s death should honour him by taking a leaf from his book and living their life with similar values. Rest in Peace, Ben Austin.
Tribute for young cricketer Ben Austin at Warragul.
Tribute for young cricketer Ben Austin at Drouin, with similar scenes occurring at matches around the state.
A minute silence for Ben Austin in a Casey Cardinia Cricket Association match at Pakenham.
Garfield-Tynong Cricket Club paid their respects.
Cricketer Ben Austin died after he was injured during a net session. (Supplied)
Tribute for young cricketer Ben Austin at the Ferntree Gully Cricket Club on Thursday. (Stewart Chambers: 514281)
Final homes now selling
Welcome to Officer Lifestyle Estate, an exclusive over 50s land lease community.
Situated in picturesque surroundings with all the conveniences of an urban locale on the doorstep.
Enjoy new, low-maintenance homes and resort-style living in a safe, welcoming environment.
Display home open for inspection
Discover life at Officer Lifestyle Estate!
Join us on the first Thursday of each month to explore our beautiful homes, tour the Clubhouse and community amenities, and meet the team.
Free morning tea will be provided and your friends and family are welcome!
Move in sooner, move in smoother Deposit by 30 Nov 2025 and get $5,000 towards your move. Don't miss this limited-time offer! T&Cs apply.
