News - Pakenham - 31st October 2013

Connecting people & communities PAKENHAM

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Thursday, 31 October, 2013

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Walk for premmies

Jockey’s equity plea

Ball on a string

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Thursday, 31

October, 2013

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Understanding autism IRABINA Childhood Austism Services put on a maze of different activities at the Cardinia Shire’s Road Safety Expo last weekend. There were a range of sensory experiences to show how children with autism have different sensory processing needs, as well as some fun activities too.

Lachlan Teague worms his way through.

Inset: Bessie Loo from Irabina with four-yearold Mark McKenzie from Drouin. 108717 Pictures: DONNA OATES

New care shared

A NEW welfare service provider has started up in Pakenham to deal with the needs of the growing population.

CatholicCare Gippsland held the official launch of their new office in Rogers Street on Wednesday afternoon.

It was officially opened by Archbishop-Elect Canberra-Goulburn, Christopher Prowse as well as Cardinia Shire councillors, CatholicCare CEO Fr Joe Caddy and McMillan MP Russell Broadbent.

Family Relationship Programs Manager Anthea Dacy said the former 1970s house would be the new home of the organisation in Pakenham.

“A parishioner, who prefers to remain nameless, committed the use of the building indefinitely for this purpose,” she said.

Ms Dacy said the facility would service people in Pakenham as well as the wider Cardinia, Casey and Gippsland communities.

“It could be counselling, community development, or we could be working in the post-separation space,

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so when families have broken up,” she said.

“We also focus on refugees and new settlers, as a substantial part of the new population in Pakenham is made up of refugees and new settlers.”

The office will be open to vulnerable people in the community and the organisation believes the need has become more apparent in Pakenham.

“The decision was made about 12 months ago when the building was purchased so it has taken a little while,” she said.

“CatholicCare is part of the Diocese

of Sale, which runs from Hallam Road to Mallacoota, up to the mountains taking in Omeo.

“Most of the population of the diocese lives on the Melbourne side of Pakenham.

“The area of the greatest need is Pakenham and up that way.”

Ms Dacy said they would expect to service people in Berwick, Cranbourne, Narre Warren and Officer.

“Narre Warren has the fifth largest Roman Catholic parish in Australia,” she said.

“This is an interesting area for us

- it’s not the old traditional Catholic base, there are some relatively new arrivals who bring their own version of Catholicism and cultural backgrounds.”

Ms Dacy said they were thrilled with the new office, although the kitchen needed an upgrade. She said there would be counselling rooms and it was a great space.

“We are hoping to run cooking classes in the new year with members of the African community,” she said.

“We expect to draw people from Longwarry right to Hallam.”

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Cop nabbed drink-driving AN OFF-DUTY police officer has had his licence suspended after allegedly being caught drink-driving in Cranbourne North this week.

The senior constable from the southern region was tested at a booze bus site in Cranbourne North

on Sunday night.

He recorded an alleged blood alcohol level of 0.119.

He was issued a penalty notice and the incident has been referred to the Professional Standards Command as a matter of course.

2013-2014

High tea is brewing

By BRITTANY PIASENTIN THE kettle is on and the cupcakes are in the oven with The High Tea Party coming to Pakenham to support the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

On 22 November, everyone is invited to join Emily Bryans and her two staff members Madeline Young and Marie Schultze as they host a high tea from 5pm till late at her salon, Lily’s Hair and Beauty, in the Centre Arcade on Main Street, Pakenham.

Residents are encouraged to come along with a gold coin donation to eat some sweet and savoury treats.

“We’ll be serving finger food like wraps and ham and cheese platters along with biscuits and pink cupcakes.

“We’ll also be drawing a raffle on the night,” Ms Bryans said.

Raffle tickets are on sale now in the salon and can be purchased for a gold coin donation. The pink themed raffle will be drawn on the night and promises plenty of gifts from local businesses such as vouchers from the salon, pink Tupperware, pink Breast Cancer slippers with heatable wheat packs inside, as well as candle and aromatherapy gifts from Pharmore pharmacy.

The salon will continue to collect do-

From left to right: Madeline Yooung, Emily Bryans and Marie Schultze are ready for a cuppa. nations from businesses and add to the raffle in the coming weeks.

“There was no particular reason why I chose to do this, I just wanted to do something for charity.

“I’m a very generous person and I wanted to give something back to the community,” Ms Bryans said.

The event will see pink balloons and

streamers decorating the salon and a pink box is available in the salon now for further donations from those who do not want to participate in the raffle or high tea.

The money raised by The High Tea Party will go to the National Breast Cancer Foundation in the hope of finding a cure for the cancer that approximately 40 women are diagnosed with each day.

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•Saturday 30th November 2013 •Sunday 5th January 2014 •Saturday 18th January 2014 •Saturday 8th February 2014 (Cup Day) •Saturday 22nd February 2014 •Saturday 15th March 2014

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From left, Johanna Daly, Leanne McCall, Kristina Loritsch and Hayley Delaney are Open Age Girls Four Hand Champions for 2013.

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Winning dancers do a jig

By BRITTANY PIASENTIN MCALEER Dance School members have returned from the 2013 Australian Irish Dancing Championship in Perth with an impressive 12 titles from team and solo performances.

Of the 35 dancers who participated in the competition, ranging from five to 23 years old, 30 returned as Australian champions.

The school’s director Fiona Holmes said that the students attended up to four classes a week in preparation and returned with the most titles of any dance school in the country in 2013.

“We never went to Perth thinking this would happen.

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years, performed incredibly well, receiving a total of six team titles with two near perfect scores of 99 out of 100.

Leanne McCall, 23, who has been dancing since she was seven, has retired from competition.

She has just completed her teaching exam in Sydney and will become a teacher at the school.

Lachlan Forster won the solo title for his age group for the third time following wins in 2010 and 2011.

McAleer dance school was established in 1973 and has been competing in the national competition for the 40 years that it has been running.

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“I’m really proud and grateful that we have such great students and families who support the school,” she said.

The school hopes to continue its lucky run next year when the senior team travels to London to compete in the World Championship in April 2014.

“The students are probably still on cloud nine, they’re just starting to come back to earth now,” Mrs Holmes said.

The team performances came away with a massive 11 titles and were runners up in five sections.

The senior team members, some of who have been with the school for 15

THE Cardinia Shire Council has been recognised for its efforts and contributions to tackling heart disease.

On 24 October, the council was acknowledged at the Heart Foundation Healthy Community Awards, where it was Highly Commended in the ‘Councils with populations greater than 15,000’ category.

Chief executive officer of the Victorian branch of the Heart Foundation, Diana Heggie, said Cardinia Shire Council was awarded for a number of initiatives undertaken to help locals be as healthy as possible.

“Cardinia Shire Council has been recognised for its commitment to building healthier communities through a

range of programs underpinned by strategies, plans, policies and guidelines focused on health, and the Heart Foundation congratulates all those involved in this successful program,” she said.

Initiatives which highlight Cardinia Shire Council’s commitment to change the health and wellbeing of its residents into the future include the Cardinia Shire Healthy by Design Guideline, a document which supports and provides a guide to healthy living, Mobile March, a program designed which encouraged students to walk or ride to school and the Cardinia Shire Health and Wellbeing Program which is a combination of programs and activities to encourage health among staff.

Ms Heggie explained how important these awards were in recognising the ‘outstanding achievements’ of local governments in their fight against heart disease - the number one killer of Australian men and women.

“Local governments play a pivotal role in introducing structural change, implementing policies and creating supportive environments, which allow people to be physically active, reduce smoking and improve their nutrition,” she said.

Cardinia Shire Council was one of three local governments in Victoria recognised with state and national awards for initiatives that create a healthy community.

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Thursday, 31 October, 2013 Page 3

Blue-green scene seen in trivia joust

James Solomon was born seven weeks premature in 2012. 108955

Time to treasure

By NICOLE WILLIAMS BECK Solomon’s “little monkey” gives her every reason to smile but his entry into the world at only 33 weeks also gave her and her husband Rob plenty of reasons to sweat.

James was born on 27 March last year, weighing only 1775 grams and looking like a little monkey, earning him his nickname.

“It was a tough time but good time too,” the Pakenham mum said.

“Now I consider it bonus time. I got seven weeks of cuddles I would have missed out on.”

To celebrate James’s success and help other families with premmie babies, Team Monkey took part in the Walk for Prems at Albert Park on Sunday, raising money and awareness for Life’s Little Treasures Foundation.

James spent four weeks in hospital after his birth, two weeks in the special care nursery at Monash Medical Centre and two weeks at Casey Hospital, before the Solomon’s could finally bring him home.

“The hardest thing was leaving the hospital every night with empty arms - it’s really

hard,” Mrs Solomon said.

“It was disempowering and it felt like the baby was not yours.”

Mrs Solomon went through a “rollercoaster” of emotions after James’s premature birth “There was a lot of denial and shock. Once he was born, I held him thinking ‘how did he get here?’,” she said.

“My way of coping was thinking he was normal. I forgot normal babies were twice the size and would think every baby that came into the nursery was huge.”

These days, no-one would be able to tell James was a premmie baby - although he hit many of his milestones later than others the same age.

“Premmie babies have different milestones which are all extra exciting,” Mrs Solomon said, as she recalled the first day James was able to wear clothes.

“The day I saw him without his tube (nasogastric tube) for the first time was the day before we went home and it was so exciting to actually get to see his face. For me, that was the moment that I realised he was mine and we got to take him home.”

Outlook CEO Tony Fitzgerald pulls out the winning door prize.

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fund-raiser, the ‘Wheel and Walk for Outlook’, on Sunday 17 November from 10am to 2pm at Lakeside.

Registration is a donation of $10 for singles, $20 for a family of up to six members or $40 for a team of four.

Games, a barbecue, jumping castle, pony rides, tai chi and yoga demonstrations as well as marquees promoting Outlook’s services, volunteering opportunities and environmental team will be on the front lawns of the Cardinia Cultural Centre until 2pm.

To register for the Wheel and Walk for Outlook go to www.trybooking.com/DOOR or register from 9.30am on the day. For details, you can contact Ann Selby at Outlook on 95941 1535 or anns@ outlookvic.org.au

An artist’s impression of the Outlook Community Centre, set to open in April 2014.

Rob, James and Beck Solomon took part in the Walk for Prems on Sunday.

The 5km walk on Sunday was a way for the Solomon family to give back and raise awareness for the organisation that helped them.

“When I had him I was looking to someone to help, so when I was in hospital I looked on the website and read stories,” she said.

Chipping in for 4Cs charity fund-raiser is receiving plenty of support, being sponsored by Cardinia Club, Todd Devine Homes, RMBL Investments, Bowen Timber and Hardware, Timbertop Housing Estate Land Developers and the Fruit Market Lions Club.

Every year, the 4Cs Crisis Relief Centre provides thousands of Cardinia residents in crisis with services like food assistance, crisis accommodation and financial advice.

They rely on the generosity of local businesses and residents and the support of the major sponsors, golf players and those who have donated items to the auctions are much appreciated by the 4Cs.

“It helped to know you were not alone and the premmie babies were OK and were now big kids or strong men.”

To donate to Life’s Little Treasures or Team Monkey, visit www.lifeslittletreasures. org.au/walk

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GOLF players at Cardinia Beaconhills Golf Club will tee off on Friday 22 November to raise money for the 4Cs Crisis Relief Centre.

On the Cardinia Churches Combined Caring (4Cs) Annual Charity golf day, the 120 players will enjoy a round of golf, a three course dinner and an auction, with all proceeds going to the service that supports over 40,000 Cardinia residents every year.

The annual charity golf day promises to provide plenty of people with the opportunity to support the work of the 4Cs in the community.

With the demand for the charity’s services rising 150 per cent since October 2012, the fund-raiser

THE cardinal fashion rule of ‘blue and green must never be seen, unless there is a colour in between’ went out the window on Friday for Outlook’s Trivia Night.

The event, to raise awareness for the newly-built $4.3 million dollar Outlook Community Centre in Toomuc Valley Road, had a blue and green theme.

People were dressed as frogs, leprechauns, a variety of ‘onesies’, and in blue and green lycra.

Outlook CEO, Tony Fitzgerald, was sporting a frog hat given to him by his daughter Alex.

Quiz Master Fraser challenged the participants with trivia rounds on Australiana, entertainment, The World Around Us and entertained everyone by singing 10 songs in the music round.

The winning team on the night was ‘Macca’s Table’, which was populated by Outlook Deputy CEO’s Anne McCormick, her family and their friends.

With over 50 silent auction items, kindly donated by local businesses, the night raised over $4000 to help out with the cost of items to fit out the new building.

The existing Outlook Community Centre was partially destroyed in the 2011 floods and a building has been constructed in its place.

The new building, expected to open in April 2014, will house the administration team, the current community centre team and their classes, a 120-seat function room for parties and conferences and six program rooms for hire.

Outlook will hold an additional

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Women take the reins

By BRIDGET COOK

Weapons and drugs after car stopped THREE men were charged with firearm and drug offences after police pursued them in a car with stolen numberplates just before 2am on Sunday.

A 25-year-old Narre Warren man and two Berwick men, aged 26 and 22, were charged with carrying a loaded firearm and possession of a pipe bomb, a large quantity of GHB, drug paraphernalia and a balaclava.

They were also charged with handling stolen goods.

They have been remanded in custody to appear at the Dandenong Magistrates’ Court this week.

Indecent exposure

Cranbourne jockey Sally Wynne has praised the Racing for Equality report, which aims to Picture: MEAGAN ROGERS improve conditions for female jockeys. 109094 “There needs to be some sort of training in place for retired jockeys so they can go out there and find a new career path.”

Ms Wynne said the report was a step in the right direction.

“All these issues have been eating at me for a long time and I’m glad that now, something is being done about it,” she said.

“When I first started, I’d be lucky to have one or two other companions in the room.

“There are more and more females now so it’s good these issues are being addressed.

“Trainers and owners are accepting female jockeys now, and we are no longer a novelty.”

AJA chief executive Paul Innes said it was time the industry took a positive step forward

in recognising the contribution female jockeys made to the racing industry and ensure that equal opportunity is afforded to all riders, regardless of their gender.

“It’s no secret that racing is a tough profession with the risk of injury or death every time a jockey rides,” Mr Innes said.

“But our female riders face an extra set of challenges such as the difficulty in accessing Paid Parental Leave, sub-standard jockey rooms at venues and lack of support beyond the race track.

“A quarter of jockeys - and almost half of apprentices - are female and while they are carving out a proud history of Australian female riders, they continue to face some serious hurdles to making racing a viable long-term career.”

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POLICE are seeking to identify a man who indecently exposed himself and fondled himself in public last week.

Police said a man ran out of the bushes and exposed his genitals and was fondled himself at Sydney Parkinson Reserve, along James Cook Drive, about noon on Monday 21 October.

He was described as Caucasian, in his mid20s, dark hair and wearing black pants and white T-shirt.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Burglar helps himself to car in burglaries A STOLEN car was used during a residential burglary in Lyndhurst last week.

About 12.40pm on Thursday 24 October, a burglar forced his way into a house in Carbine Way, Lyndhurst, by kicking in a sliding door.

A man left the house in a stolen silver, 1990 Mazda 626 sedan with the number plates UKJ801, which was stolen from Dandenong Plaza.

The man also attempted to break into another house on the same street.

He was described as 20 to 30 years old, of medium build, bald, blonde hair, Australian accent and of medium height.

He was also allegedly carrying a pair of scissors.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Copper raiders strike

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THE hurdles faced by women in the racing industry highlighted in a new campaign are nothing new to Cranbourne jockey Sally Wynne.

Last week the Australian Jockey’s Association (AJA) released it’s Racing for Equality report and kicked off a campaign to improve conditions for female jockeys.

The campaign outlines three key recommendations, with the main being for the Federal Government to fix a legislative glitch, where jockeys miss out on Paid Parental Leave because of safety restrictions on riding when pregnant.

Under federal law, women must have worked at least 10 of the 13 months before they have a baby to be eligible for financial support.

However, female jockeys are obliged to inform stewards of their pregnancy by the end of the first trimester and immediately stop riding.

Ms Wynne said it was unfair on jockeys to miss out on paid maternity leave because of this glitch.

“We are working and paying taxes like everyone else, so we should be able to get the same benefits,” she said.

“The current system is not fair for us at all.”

The two other recommendations highlighted in the Racing for Equality report are raising the standard for women’s jockey rooms and support once their career is over.

Ms Wynne said in her 23 years as a jockey, these had always been a problem.

“I have been complaining about female jockey rooms since I started,” she said.

“This is not new for me and it’s just not good enough.

“The rooms weren’t good enough 20 years ago, so they definitely aren’t good enough now.”

Ms Wynne said the lack of support for both female and male jockeys after their career was over was worrying.

“We dedicate our lives to this job, so when others are out doing work experience, applying for jobs and going to university, we are already doing our job,” she said.

“We lose that window of experience, which is not our fault as we have dedicated our lives to racing.

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ABOUT $13,000 worth of copper was stolen from a Cranbourne East retirement village this month.

Between Friday 18 and Sunday 20 October, the copper was stolen from a construction site at Hunters Green Retirement Village, along Rochester Parade.

Police said there was extensive damage caused as a result of the theft and that the raiders would have spent a considerable time on the site.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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Thursday, 31 October, 2013 Page 5

Dumping menace The EPA’s illegal dumping strike force team have since covertly surveiled the area; one of among 80 operations in Victoria using techniques such as black ops surveillance cameras and soil testing guns.

“We’re watching. We’re now aware of this site,” Mr Bryant said.

Matthew Robins, a Victorian House and Land Specialists real estate agent selling in Lynbrook Greens, said dumping was a “part of life” at housing estates in the south-east.

“Sometimes the developers will clean it up, but unfortunately with this case, the developer is not there anymore. He’s gone. “[Illegal dumping] is impossible to police. There are times I’ve seen trucks drive down and then see me and turn around. What can you do?

“It’s unfortunately a part of life before you start building.”

Since 2010, the EPA’s strike team has slapped down 13 prosecutions - and 177 penalty notices - against individuals and companies for illegally dumping materials such as contaminated fill material, asbestos, tyres, and manufacturing, construction and demolition waste.

Maximum penalties for companies are more than $1.2 million; individuals face up to seven years jail or a fine of up to $610,700.

To report illegal dumping, ring 1300 372 842.

By CAMERON LUCADOU-WELLS NEW-HOME buyers in Lynbrook Greens housing estate have been billed for unsightly piles of industrial waste being illegally dumped on their vacant properties.

EPA Victoria regional manager Leigh Bryant said the homebuyers in Banjo Circuit were innocent victims of “brazen” acts - even before a brick had been laid on their house-and-land packages.

Such illegal dumping was being orchestrated by an “organised-crime network” of clear-fill, soil and waste disposal businesses - though most in those industries were “doing the right thing”, he said.

“They are in competition with other people in the industry, but they tell each other of new, empty places to dump.”

Evidently, these places include near-deserted, semi-developed housing estates like Lynbrook Greens.

The aim is profiteering: simply to avoid landfill fees - about $200 for a skip of industrial waste - at a waste transfer station or landfill, Mr Bryant said.

Instead that fee - as well as clean-up and pick-up costs of up to $1000 - are being passed on to the landholder.

Mr Bryant said the dozen ugly mounds of bricks, tiles, boards and tyres at the four vacant lots had been clearly dumped from a rubbish skip.

Phone stolen during attack A MAN was attacked and had his phone stolen during a robbery involving at least four men this week.

About 1.20am on Sunday 27 October, a man was walking along Kennington Park Drive, Endeavour Hills, when he was approached by four or five men of African appearance.

Police said one of the men punched the victim to the face causing him to fall to the ground, where he was then repeatedly kicked to the torso and facial area.

The victim managed to get up off the ground and one of his attackers then snatched his mobile phone from him, police said.

The victim sustained bruising and swelling to his torso and face as a result of the incident.

One of the men was described as being in his mid-20s, six-foot tall, of thin build and wearing a dark black hooded jumper and cargo pants.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

House break-in spree

EPA Victoria regional manager Leigh Bryant surveys strewn industrial garbage left at vacant residential lots in Lynbrook Greens. 108145 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

POLICE are seeking information about three residential burglaries across Casey on Tuesday 22 October.

Between 8.50am and 9.30am on 22 October, a house in Endeavour Drive, Cranbourne North, was broken into and laptops, MP3 players and a camera were stolen. On the same day, between 6am and 7pm, a house was also broken into in Quartz Place, Narre Warren.

Cash, collectible coins, a television, Toshiba computer and jewellery was stolen.

A house in Inglis Road, Berwick, was broken into the same day between 6am and 4.30pm and a blue, six-pack esky was stolen containing $1050 cash. In all three burglaries, a jemmy bar was used to force open a door or window.

Doggone attack on pet

By LACHLAN MOORHEAD AN EUMEMMERRING man has vowed never to venture “anywhere near” Doveton again after he and his dog were viciously attacked by an uncollared pitbull in Waratah Reserve.

Mark, who didn’t want his surname published, said he was terrified when a pitbull attacked and bit his brother’s boxer cross Staffordshire terrier, Buddy, on Saturday morning and was warning residents to be on the lookout for it.

“It’s the most terrifying moment I’ve experienced,” he said.

“I don’t want it to happen again.”

Mark, who takes care of Buddy on the weekends and regularly walks him at Waratah Reserve, said he heard the pitbull before he saw it.

“I was walking the outline of the soccer oval where the fence follows the stormwater drain,” he said.

“As I passed the park area I heard the dog but I kept walking and when I turned around I saw this thing heading towards us, about 30 metres away.

“Most dogs usually stop about 10 metres away but this one didn’t stop.”

The pitbull jumped at Buddy and started attacking him despite Mark’s best efforts to deter the other animal.

“I jumped in front of the pitbull and it came towards us to get at Buddy,” Mark said. “If he’s attacking my dog, then he’s attacking me.”

Mark, who is 110 kilograms, said he then started punching and kicking the animal but it could not be stopped.

“I’ve boxed before but after two minutes of fighting this animal I was stuffed,” he said.

“I was feeling hopeless. I’ve never felt hopeless before.”

Mark had to let go of Buddy’s lead before two residents from neighbouring houses

heard the commotion and came out to help. One had a shovel while his neighbour picked up a tree branch and managed to force the animal to stop attacking Buddy, after which it fled.

Buddy suffered from a scratch to his shoulder blades and bite marks and lacerations in his cheek following the attack.

Mark has since contacted Dandenong Police and Casey Council and warned locals to be wary of the reserve.

“People have to be careful if they’re walking around Waratah, it’s so remote,” he said. “If something does happen to you, you have no chance. I was just lucky I had people there.”

Casey Community Safety manager Caroline Bell said a council officer had visited Waratah Reserve after Mark’s sighting of the pitbull but had been unable to locate it.

Reports can be made to the City of Casey on 9705 5200.

500 Soldiers Road Clyde Nth 3978 www.hillcrest.vic.edu.au ph. 9702 2144

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| starcommunity.com.au

Page 6 Thursday, 31 October, 2013

Connecting people and communities PN

Opinion

M120804-SAH12-8

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Send letters to P.O. Box 9, Pakenham, 3810, fax 5945 0777 or email editor@starnewsgroup.com.au.

All letters published must carry the writer’s name and town or suburb.

A home address and daytime phone number are also required for verification.

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COUNCILLOR Wayne Smith and Cr Louise Berkelmans are having an extravagant fully paid $3700 junket by Casey Council to go to enjoy the Tamworth Country Music Festival.

They are being paid the air fare, $250, top hotel, $1250 and car hire, $350 each. Sheer arogance and abuse of power.

Ratepayers are angry that the junket is approved and paid by the council just after a massive rates increase.

Ratepayers believe that this is a serious breach of councillor duty and responsibility to the public.

Ratepayers believe that it was in breach of the conflict of interest that Cr Smith moved the resolution and Cr Berkelmans seconded the motion for their own junket.

The council has already funded a concert group to perform at the festival and there is no reason at all for councillors to enjoy the festival at public expense.

Councils have a responsibility and an obligation to deal with complaints openly and with transparancy required.

We demand that the council review this junket and rescind the resolution.

Keith Townsend, Narre Warren.

Artist Tony Sowersby at Tooradin Primary School. 108512 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Orangutans in danger

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DURING our school camp recently, we went to the Melbourne Zoo and learnt about the terrible times the orangutans are going through at the moment.

Palm oil is produced by palm trees and used in everyday products available at supermarkets, such as food, cosmetics and cleaning products.

You won’t know which products have palm oil in them because it isn’t always labelled.

The production of palm oil, brutally destroys the habitat of animals such as the orangutan and tigers, bringing them closer and closer to extinction.

We are not only letting people know about this issue as a school project but also as we are worried the orangutans will be extinct by 2020 if we don’t do something.

We urge people to join the Don’t Palm Us Off campaign to let companies know you want the choice.

Jasmine and Sasha, Students at Berwick Chase Primary School.

Ray’s

say

Socially speaking HEAD OFFICE:

Don’t be so lazy

Phone 5945 0666 Fax 5945 0777 starnewsgroup@starnewsgroup.com.au www.starcommunity.com.au PO Box 9, Pakenham 3810 Open 8.30am to 5.30pm Monday to Friday Authorised agent at: 29-31 High St, Berwick 3806.

The News is produced in three editions with a total audited circulation of 88,807 Also included inside the News September 2010

The South Eastern Star Real Estate has a total audited circulation of 132,150 Advertising advertising@starnewsgroup.com.au Classifieds 5945 0600 Fax 5945 0667 classifieds@starnewsgroup.com.au Editorial editor@starnewsgroup.com.au Production production@starnewsgroup.com.au

Produced and published by Paul Thomas for Star News Group Pty. Ltd. ACN 005 484 108, Cnr. Princes Highway & Army Road, Pakenham 3810.

Printed under contract by Border Mail Printing Pty Ltd. 1 McKoy St, Wodonga. Vic 3690. Advertising Terms and Conditions, Terms and Conditions of Competitions and Privacy Statement are available at: www.starcommunity.com.au

INSIDE PANEL NEWS - 1068504

PROUDLY AUSTRALIAN OWNED & INDEPENDENT

IN relation to the article Shops Petition To Open Up Parking (Star Community, Cranbourne), as a nearby resident I applaud the council for enforcing the parking laws on William Thwaites Boulevard.

When there was no enforcement, lazy drivers parked in the right hand lane, on the centre divider and in the nearby turning lane.

Not only are these illegal they cause issues with traffic trying to drive along William Thwaites Boulevard or trying to make a right hand turn off William Thwaites.

It was dangerous for other drivers with cars moving off from right into traffic, pulling out in front of cars wanting to turn, not to mention pedestrians who had to deal with going all over the place.

Initially no standing signs were erected however this did nothing with drivers ignoring them and continuing to park illegally.

The bollards that have been installed have made

visiting these shops and getting in and out of the estate bearable.

However some drivers still ignore the signs and the bollards and continue to park illegally.

There is additional parking just around the corner plus a car park directly behind that is more than large enough to cater for the number of cars visiting the shops.

This is not a case of not enough parking, it is more to do with drivers being too lazy to have to walk an additional 20 metres to get to the shop.

As for reduction in customers, it may have more to do with the new centre down the road with a Woolworths where customers still have to park and walk.

For one I say leave the bollards and no standing signs, all they do is enforce what is the law plus it has improved traffic flow, made it easier to access the estate and is much safer for pedestrians and drivers.

Stuart Simpson, Via web.

Thumbs Up Thumbs Down Thumbs down TO scooters that have the sparks. You cannot run a lawn mower on fire ban days or a petrol remote control car, but the scooter can make sparks on dry grass as well.

Thumbs up TO Spotlight finally coming to Cranbourne. Woohoo!

Thumbs down TO the waste of money statue in Berwick. Let’s honour local heroes.

Thumbs up TO the Cranbourne Food Truck. What a great service these dedicated locals provide to those less fortunate.

Thumbs Up Thumbs Down is your chance to have your say. Malicious or defamatory submissions will not be accepted. All submissions must include a full name, address and daytime phone number. Contributions over the phone will not be accepted. Contributors will not be identified. The News reserves the right to edit submissions. To submit a Thumbs Up Thumbs Down, email to editor@starnewsgroup.com.au, fax to 5945 0777 or post to P.O. Box 9, Pakenham, 3810.

The penalty for using a phone while driving will rise from $289 and three demerit points to $433 and four demerit points on 25 November.

What do you think of the change? Do you think it will help to change driver behaviour and reduce phone-related accidents? caught. But totally agree with the Claire Waite: It’s not going to change anything and it’s just a rise in fines and demerits.Rhonmore of a money-making thing. da Fuller: No, it shouldn’t go up in money, but the points, yes.

Tracie Battye: Of course not. They use them now because they think Judie Hedrick: Have to agree they won’t get caught and that will with the majority. It won’t change still be the same. They think it’s certain people’s attitudes, and if not going to happen to them. they lose their licence, they’ll still drive and still use their phones.

Michele Halsall: Only if they get

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·

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PN

| starcommunity.com.au

Connecting people and communities

Thursday, 31 October, 2013 Page 7

Cultural fit for caring

By CAMERON LUCADOU-WELLS

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Faisal Haroon says more Muslim and culturally diverse foster carers are Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS urgently needed. 106736_02 whereas the parents are more lenient and flexible, letting the child do what they want.”

Generally, foster carer numbers are in decline.

Care With Me says that more than 1000 foster carers are urgently needed in Victoria.

Mr Haroon said children as young as six unable to be placed in a foster home, but instead living in group homes or residential units with other unplaced children or those from “broken placements”.

“This makes the situation more complex and unsettling for them,” Mr Haroon said.

He said it was important to protect children’s cultural identity so they know how to engage with their community as adults.

Otherwise, more children would fall

into the juvenile justice system because they are outcast from “both sides of the community”.

According to Wesley Mission Victoria, volunteer foster carers from all Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) backgrounds - and with a spare bedroom - were needed.

A spokeswoman said volunteers’ safe and caring homes could change children’s lives for the better - whether it’s for a month or longer.

Foster carers get accredited training and 24-hour ongoing support, with taxfree financial reimbursements to help meet the young person’s living costs.

If you can help, visit Care With Me on cwme.org.au or phone 13000 829 335, or go to Wesley Mission Victoira, 280 Thomas Street, Dandenong. Details on 9794 3000 or wesley.org.au

1077747-JJ24-13

CHILDREN in the south east are at risk of losing their cultural identity and becoming part of a “stolen generation” due to a lack of diversity among foster carers, says a foster care advocate.

Faisal Haroon is part of Care With Me - a group that recently held a forum in Dandenong trying to lift the number of foster carers from culturally diverse, particularly Muslim, backgrounds.

Foster carers house and care for children who cannot live with their families.

Mr Haroon says children are being rescued “off the street” because of cultural clashes with their well-meaning but culturally mismatched foster parents.

“If you look at the foster care system, a lot of the volunteers and carers and are from Anglo-Saxon background, not very diverse. We don’t want to have a repeat of the whole stolen generation.

“It can mean a situation where the child is the only translator for the whole family, comes into foster care and then goes out after an year or so and not being able to speak their first language.

“It ends up in disaster when they are not able to communicate with the parents who can’t speak English.

“You can imagine what impact foster care may have on the wider community where people think that foster care is about taking children and removing them from their culture.”

Mr Haroon said the group’s forums were hearing of constant calls from carers seeking help in understanding their foster child’s culture.

“The biggest one is when the child is not helped to maintain their identity, they act out and placements break down.

“The reason is children think they’ve been put into a household where their identity and culture is not respected. ‘’Sometimes children don’t understand the discipline structure where they expect the foster parent to be strict

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| starcommunity.com.au

Connecting people and communities PN

Fur ball skill visit CHILDREN from Yooralla’s Early Childhood service celebrated National Children’s Week with a host of furry friends by their side.

Animals on the Move, a mobile petting zoo, paid a visit to the Narre Warren Children’s Centre on Friday and gave the kids an opportunity to learn about, feed and handle the potential pets.

Yooralla manager Chris Vallas said it was wonderful for children to experience such close contact with baby animals.

“The children will have to exercise care when handling the animals,” Mr Vallas said, speaking before the event.

“They can practise essential social skills like waiting, sharing and taking turns.”

Yooralla’s Early Childhood Services support children with disability and their families, providing specialised services within home community and school, from birth through primary and secondary schooling.

Jimmy celebrated Children’s Week in style.

Xavier made a new friend with one of the goats.

Lindy was at Narre Warren Children’s Centre on Friday with her kids Jarrod and Shae.

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| starcommunity.com.au

Horse sense call

By BRIDGET COOK THE City of Casey has called for the safety of horse riders to be taken into consideration by VicRoads when setting roads speed limits.

Casey mayor Geoff Ablett has asked for the council to write to the State Government and VicRoads, urging them to consider how roads are used by horse riders, when setting speed limits.

Cr Ablett also wants the use of roads by horse riders in Casey to become part of the State-wide Speed Zone Guidelines, and both the council and the Casey Equestrian Reference Committee be consulted on setting speed limits.

The call came after local residents along Browns Road, in Cranbourne South, raised concerns about the 80km/h speed limit being too fast for a number of factors, including that a lot of riders use that stretch.

The council reviewed the speed zone, in consultation with Victoria Police and VicRoads, and found that the speed limit was appropriate.

“Horses are not taken into consideration when setting the speed limits anywhere in Victoria, and that’s worrying to me,” Cr Ablett said.

“Particularly in Casey, that’s hundreds of riders, young and old, whose safety is not considered.

“Roads used by a lot of horses, need to have the factor taken into consideration.

“This is particularly relevant on roads surrounding popular trail ride tracks and riding clubs.”

Cr Ablett said the community also needed to be educated on how to drive safely with horses around.

“So many drivers don’t slow down when they fly past horse riders and don’t realise how easily horses can be spooked,” he said.

“An educational pamphlet would be ideal to let people know to slow down around horses and the correct action to take.

“Horses are unpredictable, and some people don’t realise that.”

Tooradin horse rider Tesse Cook said riding on the roads around Tooradin could be dangerous at times.

“Most of the roads near my house are 80 to 100km/h, so when drivers don’t slow down it can be quite scary not knowing how your horse will react,” she said.

“We have a great horse riding estate in Tooradin and some good tracks to ride on, and we shouldn’t be put off from using them because of motorists.”

Tooradin horse rider Tesse Cook said motorists needed to be educated to slow down around horses.

Thursday, 31 October, 2013 Page 9

$1m for crash corner

By BRIDGET COOK ALMOST $1 million in funding has been announced towards a safety upgrade of a dangerous Cranbourne East intersection.

South Eastern Metropolitan Region MP Inga Peulich announced a $905,000 in funding last week for improvements to the Narre WarrenCranbourne Road and Linsell Boulevard intersection.

The intersection has a significant crash history, with five casualty crashes, including two resulting in serious injury, over the past five years.

Ms Peulich said the project funding would be spent on addressing a history of crashes involving right hand turns.

“This intersection will receive $905,000 of safety upgrades that

will deliver a second right turn lane into Linsell Boulevard that will be controlled by a right turn arrow,” she said.

“For those turning left, a slip lane from Linsell Boulevard into Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road will also be constructed and will include a pedestrian crossing.

“These works will most certainly be very welcomed by the fast-growing community in Cranbourne East,” she said.

Work on this project is expected to start in March 2014 and be finished by mid-2014.

The project is being funded by the Safer Road Infrastructure Program (SRIP), which is aimed at making our roads and roadsides safer.

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| starcommunity.com.au

Connecting people and communities PN

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Terms and Conditions: Starts 9am (AEDT) 28/10/2013 and ends 5pm (AEDT) 8/12/2013. Open to Victorian residents aged 14 years or older. Under 18ʼs must have parent/guardian consent. Fully complete an official entry form at a Participating Restaurant and place in the entry box/s provided. One entry per person per calendar day only. Preliminary Draw: 11am (AEDT) 12/12/2013 at McDonaldʼs Hampton Park, 553 South Gippsland Highway, Hampton Park, VIC 3976. Final Draw: 11:30am (AEDT) on same date and at same place as Preliminary Draw. Major prize: 1 x Fiat 500 POP 2013 base model manual car valued to AUS $14,000. Minor prizes: 21 x AUS$500 Westfield gift vouchers. Total prize pool value up to AUS $24,500 Winner of Major prize published in The Australian on 17/12/13. Prizes only awarded following any winner verification required by Promoter. Promoter: McDonaldʼs Australia Limited (ABN 43 008 496 928) of 21-29 Central Ave, Thornleigh NSW 2120. Participating Restaurants are Berwick, Berwick South, Caldermeade, Cranbourne, Cranbourne Express, Dandenong North, Dandenong Plaza, Doveton II, Endeavour Hills, Fountain Gate, Fountain Gate Food Court, Hampton Park, Keysborough, Lyndhurst, Noble Park, Pakenham, Pakenham Bypass Inbound, Pakenham Bypass Outbound, Parkmore Shopping Centre, Skye, Springvale II and Waverley Gardens II. Full Terms see Restaurant Manager. VIC Permit 13/2077. *Product image is for illustration purposes only. For details please see actual item.

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Connecting people and communities

Walking tall

By LACHLAN MOORHEAD AFTER a horrific dirt bike crash at Easter last year, Amber Thomas thought she might never walk again.

But after 18 months of rehabilitation, Amber’s broken leg will hopefully be little more than a bad memory when she participates in the annual City2Sea event next month, walking from the Arts Centre in the Melbourne CBD to Albert Park.

The Narre Warren mother of two said she had been planning to compete in a marathon before those dreams came crashing down alongside her dirt bike.

“I shattered my tibia and ripped my ACL clear off the bone,” she said.

“I had three operations and a metal plate and pins inserted into my leg.

“I had to learn to walk on my leg again through lots of physiotherapy and lots of hydrotherapy.”

While still receiving regular treatment for her injuries, Amber has rediscovered how to use her leg and takes her children on regular walks in the pram.

Two-year-old daughter Charley and four-month-old son Kai will be joining Amber and their grandmother, Dianne, in walking the 5km City2Sea, with Kai claiming the award for the event’s youngest competitor.

“Me and Mum are going to walk and we’ll push the kids in the pram,” Amber said.

“They’re a bit too young to understand it but I think Char-

Amber Thomas, who has recovered from a serious leg injury, is excited to participate in next month’s City2Sea event with her mum Dianne, daughter Charley, and fourmonth-old son Kai. ley will find it exciting.”

Amber’s recovery from a broken leg is only one chapter of the resilient mum’s life. For 13 years she has lived with depression, battling pre-natal depression while pregnant with Kai. It’s no surprise that Amber will be donating the money she raises from City2Sea to Beyond Blue, an organisation close to her heart.

“Some people with depression, especially those who have just been diagnosed, feel ashamed, like they’re not worthy,” Amber said.

“I know a lot of people who have felt that way and talking about it is what helps.”

When she sets off on the City2Sea walk on Sunday 17 November, Amber will be doing all she can to raise awareness of depression and encourage people to do just that - talk.

“Mum’s proud of me,” Amber said.

“I’m sure she’s proud of how far I’ve come and how I carry myself now,” Amber said.

For more information on the City2Sea or to get involved with the event, visit www.thecity2sea.com.au

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Page 12 Thursday, 31 October, 2013

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Sophy Mylonas now has a vest, designed for sufferers of Cystic Fibrosis, thanks to the generosity of the local community.

Picture: MEAGAN ROGERS

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By BRIDGET COOK

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A CRANBOURNE toddler has received a potentially life-saving vest, thanks to the generosity of the local community.

A big fund-raising event was held at Amstel Golf Club in September to raise money to purchase a $14,000 vest for Sophy Mylonas, which will help treat her life-threatening condition Cystic Fibrosis (CF).

More than 200 turned out to the Team Sophy Charity Event, which included auctions, raffles and live entertainment, and managed to raise the money required for the vest.

Sophy’s mother Sally Mylonas said it was one of the best nights of her life.

“Knowing everyone was there for Sophy was amazing,” she said.

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“There was so much love and support in the room, from both my family and friends and complete strangers.

“I thank everyone who helped from the bottom of my heart.

“It’s amazing to think there are people out there who do stuff like this for others and expect nothing in return.”

CF is a genetic disease that substantially impairs normal respiratory and digestive functions, making the simple acts of eating and breathing a challenge.

In people with CF, a faulty gene causes the body to produce abnormally thick, sticky mucus that can clog the lungs, pancreas and other organs and can lead to severe respiratory and digestive problems.

The life expectancy of those with CF is only mid to late thirties.

The vest is an air pulse generator that rapidly fills and deflates an inflatable vest, gently compressing and releasing the chest wall up to 25 times per second.

This process creates minicoughs that dislodge mucus from the bronchial walls, promoting increased lung function and clearer lungs.

Ms Mylonas said the vest would not only give her daughter a healthier and longer life, but also take some of the guilt off her as a parent.

“I know I’m giving my daughter gold-class treatment and doing everything I possibly can to help keep her healthy as long as possible,” she said.

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Jumping for joy... Yuka Joy

Fascinators on the field ATTENTION to detail, classic race-day styling and, of course, haute couture hats will be the key to being in the winner’s circle of this year’s Silverwater Resort Fashions on the Field.

Always a highlight of Pakenham Gazette Oaks Day, this year’s event is expected to be a hotly contested affair, with hopes high that the quality of both outfits and models will be even better than last year’s high standard.

Offering four categories for the day including Lady of the Day, Mature Lady of the Day, Best Dressed Couple and the Best Dressed Gentleman, there will be something on the day for all fashion enthusiasts.

Registrations are free on the day between 11am and 1pm with the first heat commencing at 1.15pm. “Judges will be looking for a well polished look, complemented with both stylish and elegant details,� events manager Hayley Conn said. “Attention to detail is a must for all fashions entrants, things like appropriate race wear for

By DAVID NAGEL

Fabulous fascinators and high class hats will be key parts of Fashions on the Field outfits. 89741 the weather conditions, current fashion trends and well-made millinery is a must.�

The Silverwater Resort Fashions on the Field stage and registration area will be located

Thursday, 31 October, 2013 Page 13

under the bookies’ ring next to the fashions pamper area, which will boast a range of complementary hair and make-up touch-ups thanks to the teams from Revillo Hair Berwick and Pakenham Pharmore Pharmacy.

NEXT Thursday’s Pakenham Gazette Oaks Day has become a real target for local trainers, keen to shine on what has grown to become Pakenham’s biggest social event of the year.

Local gallopers have been shining brightly in recent weeks with Terry Ahern’s eight-yearold mare Yuka Joy, Michael Brady’s exciting stayer Bianmick and Pakenham owned galloper Speediness all putting in outstanding performances that have them all on the brink of spring riches.

Speediness’ performance to run second to the smart Toydini in Saturday’s $220,000 Schweppes Crystal Mile at Moonee Valley continued a rich-vein of form for the Colin Scott trained gelding, after winning the Bobbie Lewis Quality at Flemington, then backing that up with a slashing fourth in the Group 1 Toorak Handicap at Caulfield. A tilt at another Group 1, the $1million Emirates Stakes on the final day of the Melbourne Cup Carnival looks the likely way forward.

On the same program at the Valley, Bianmick ran a brave fourth behind the Peter Gelagotis trained Hvasstan in the $100,000 Drummond Golf Handicap (2040m). Bianmick led into the straight and fought on gallantly to be beaten by less than a length

The Terry Ahern trained Yuka Joy ran a bottler at her last start and holds her form well. She’ll be difficult to hold out at her next assignment. 109038 Picture: WWW.SLICKPIX.COM.AU on the line. Brady had ambitions of running Bianmick in the Australian Cup earlier this year, so now he’s found form, watch him closely. Thoroughbred racing headed to Pakenham on Monday, 21 October where locals collected a pair of placings with Yuka Joy putting in an amazing effort to finish second, beaten by a bob of the head in the Cardinia Club Benchmark 70 Handicap (1750m).

Yuka Joy ($31), who had no luck in running, was caught five-wide in the early part of the race and was still three-wide during the middle stages. Star jockey Darren Gauci asked the mare to go forward and take

the lead at the 400-metre mark.

Yuka Joy kept attacking the line to be just pipped by a nose - an outstanding effort, with a win not far away.

It’s worth remembering that Yuka Joy hit a purple-patch of form at this time last year, putting together an incredible run that included three wins - at Pakenham, Sale and Mornington - and seven placings during an impressive 10-run campaign.

For those attending, the club has a limited number of tickets still available for the Indulgence Marquee and Hats and High Tea Marquee that can be purchased by calling the club on 5941 1207.

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| starcommunity.com.au

Page 14 Thursday, 31 October, 2013

Connecting people and communities PN

Oaks Day Program highlights Gates open - 11am

Live music between races

First race - 1.10pm

Free shuttle buses - For times and locations, visit pakenhamracing.com. au

Last race - 5.19pm Hospitality marquees - Open from noon Fashions on the Field - Registration from 11am, first heat about 1pm

Adult admission price $20 on the day, $15 if pre-purchased

CARDINIA CLUB Your Spring Racing Carnival Venue

Oaks Day Breakfast Get your 2012 Oaks Day off and racing with breakfast at the Cardinia Club.

Chives Bistro will be offering its normal breakfast menu with a number of specials. Bookings essential. Available 9am to 11.30am.

Breakfast Specials : * Rice Congee with Chicken Quenelles $8.00 * Asparagus and Bacon Rolls $12.00 * Chicken & Avocado Focaccia $16.00

Our fillies in full bloom

Enjoy all the action of the

SPRING RACING CARNIVAL at our SPORTS BAR & TAB - Melbourne Cup field available from 8.30pm Saturday 2nd November CCAV

- Melbourne Cup betting available Sunday 3rd November

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- TAB is open from 8am for the Melbourne Cup and 9am Oaks Day

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Princes Hwy

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Racecourse

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71 Racecourse Road, Pakenham Phone: 5941 4855

Libby Drake cheers her horse home on Oaks Day 2012. 89741 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Bald Hill Rd

Koo Wee Rup exit

ass Pakenham Byp

Warragul

ABOUT to embark on its ninth year, Pakenham Gazette Oaks Day has quickly established itself as the highlight of Pakenham’s social and sporting calendar.

It’s hard to imagine - prior to 2005 - the Pakenham Racecourse sitting idle on Oaks Day, such is the glitz and glamour that now typifies the day when fillies, of the two and four-legged variety, bloom and look their very, very best.

Pakenham’s big day coincides with the Group 1 VRC Oaks at Flemington, and from the day Lee Freedman’s champion filly Serenade Rose scored in 2005, all the way through to Clarry Connors’ outstanding filly Dear

Demi’s victory in last year’s classic, the day has gripped our town like no other.

Pakenham Racing Club chief executive Michael Hodge said the day had been a great acquisition to both the PRC and the community at large.

“Prior to 2005 Pakenham did not race on any of the key spring feature race days, so to secure such a date became a key priority for the club,” Mr Hodge said.

“The club was fortunate to gain approval for the transfer of Oaks Day from Mildura to Pakenham and the rest is now history, with Oaks Day clearly establishing itself as the club’s and the community’s, biggest race day event, with incremental

growth in attendances every year since 2005.”

The club didn’t stop there, in 2009, Caulfield Guineas Day was added to the program and like Oaks Day, it too has now establishing itself as a key feature race day in the Pakenham fixture.

“People want to go to the races in spring, and the club is delighted to be able to provide the local community with two great options at the best time of year,” Mr Hodge said.

“Both these meetings, together with the Sportingbet Pakenham Cup, will continue to grow and develop as we move onto and into a new era of racing at the new racecourse in Tynong.”

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Connecting people and communities

| starcommunity.com.au

Thursday, 31 October, 2013 Page 15

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| starcommunity.com.au

Page 16 Thursday, 31 October, 2013

Connecting people and communities PN

Parliament in the pink THE gardens of Parliament House were planted with a Mini-Field of Women on Monday thanks to a team of pink ladies from the City of Casey.

The pink tribute to those affected by breast cancer helped raise $1000 for Breast Cancer Network Australia as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

State Labor Member for Narre Warren South Judith Graley was accompanied by her team of pink ladies, Nichole Hayes, Kym Frost, Caitlyn Slade, Therese Howell, Tracey Ryan, Melinda Anderson and Poly Van Kroning.

“Throughout Breast Cancer Awareness Month these wonderful women, all of whom live in my electorate, have gone above and beyond to do what they can to support those affected by breast cancer,” Ms Graley said.

The string quartet from Nossal High School featuring Joanna An, Roland Cheing, George Lim and Kathy Nguyen joined the women.

Also among the gardens was Breast Cancer Network Australia Chief Executive Officer the Hon Maxine Morand and other Members of Parliament including State Premier Denis Napthine and Leader of the Opposition Daniel Andrews.

“To see so many of my colleagues out and proud in pink to support Breast Cancer Network Australia was truly a sight to behold,” Ms Graley said.

“Thankyou ladies and to everyone who came out today to turn Parliament House pink for a day.”

Traders will be pretty in pink

By NICOLE WILLIAMS

From left, Poly Van Kroning, Therese Howell, Nichole Hayes, Narre Warren South MP Judith Graley, Melinda Anderson, Kym Frost and Caitlyn Slade. 109153 Inset: Nossal High School string quartet serenade the gardens at Parliament House.

PINKING Berwick is only weeks away and the organising committee is seeking support from traders.

Member of the committee Harry Hutchinson said it was time for traders to get on board for the Saturday 16 November event.

“We’re calling on more people to start waving the pink flag and start collecting show bags,” he said.

Beno’s Restaurant began distributing the show bags containing decorations at 5.30 last night (Wednesday) to be put up in shop fronts next week.

Jenny Prowse, member of the committee and the Pink Smurfettes, said most traders were already on board but the committee wanted the entire street ‘pinked’.

“We are really hoping the whole street gets involved,” she said.

The committee has also recently confirmed a tribute field of women.

“We hope everyone comes and writes notes for those they have lost or who are suffering,” she said.

“It will be just wonderful with the big Veronica and field of women at bottom of her will be very moving and very special.”

The Pinking Berwick event will be held on High Street Berwick from 10am to 3pm on Saturday 16 November.

The event will feature lots of entertainment, activities Veronica the Pink Lady, a jumping castle and showbags.

It is the second time Berwick has gone pink for breast cancer awareness.

Pinking Berwick will raise for Breast Cancer Network Australia and the Pink Smurfettes for 2014 Weekend to End Women’s Cancers benefiting the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre.

Business profile

Never too young: Berwick Montuna junior Ben Powell gets some putting tips from former club champion and now touring professional Steve Allan.

Golf’s new round The local Maccas team, back row from left: David Fowler, Gerrie Richardson, Margaret Cook, Joanne Hilliard, Denise Nabb, Jenny Hill and Ross Thornton. Front: Howard Armitage and Gary Sandler.

Maccas gives prizes with that CHRISTMAS is arriving early across the Casey, Cardinia and Dandenong regions with 22 McDonald’s restaurants giving local customers the chance to win up to $25,000 in prizes as part of their Christmas competition.

The major prize up for grabs is a new Fiat 500 - POP Edition with five speed manual transmission and 1.2L petrol engine including 12 months registration valued at $14,000.

The competition will also see 21 lucky runners up to receive a $500 Westfield gift

voucher just in time to spend before Christmas.

The Casey Clan Christmas competition opens today (Monday) and is easy to enter, simply visit a participating McDonald’s restaurant in the Casey region to obtain an entry form and fill out with your contact details.

McDonald’s local licensee Howard Armitage is delighted to be part of an initiative designed to give back to the local community.

“Our Christmas Community Competition is our way

of thanking the local supporters of McDonald’s restaurants in the region and we are thrilled to have Berwick Fiat on board to provide such a generous gift to spread the Christmas cheer.

“The competition is a great opportunity to give back this holiday season and get locals into the Christmas spirit,“ Mr Armitage said.

The competition will conclude on Sunday 8 December with the winner to be announced on Thursday 12 December 2013.

Participating restaurants include Berwick, Berwick South, Cranbourne, Cranbourne Express, Dandenong North, Dandenong Plaza, Doveton, Endeavour Hills, Fountain Gate, Fountain Gate Food court, Hampton Park, Keysborough, Lyndhurst, Noble Park, Pakenham, Pakenham Bypass Inbound, Pakenham Bypass Outbound, Parkmore Shopping Centre, Skye, Springvale, Waverley Gardens and Caldermeade.

Terms and conditions are available at each of the participating restaurants.

THE ripples from Adam Scott’s US Masters victory are being felt throughout Australian golf, with clubs around the country hoping to surf a new wave of popularity triggered by the Queenslander’s historic victory.

Berwick Montuna is one such club and is now looking at innovative programs to attract new golfers or lapsed golfers back to the game.

Club president Wayne Foote well remembers the impetus Greg Norman’s reign as the world’s number one player gave the game in Australia, and would like to think the success of players such as Scott and Jason Day could see history repeat.

However, Foote acknowledges that clubs can’t just sit back and wait for new members and has launched a membership “two for the price of one” special.

“We want to get the message out that golf is a game for all ages, male and female. You’re basically never too old - or too young - to

give it a go. We feel the two-forone deal not only provides a financial incentive, but might make it that little bit easier for people who are thinking about joining a club but may feel more comfortable joining with a friend or family member at the same time.

“Having said that, we pride ourselves on being a friendly club that welcomes new members, no matter their ability. And that’s one of the many great things about golf - it’s a handicap game, so no matter your level, you are able to enjoy the challenges of competition.”

Berwick-Montuna is also keen to welcome more green-fee players who just want to enjoy an occasional round without necessarily joining a club. Such players should inquire about the club’s “mates rates” deal for a 20 per cent discount on green fees.

More information: Phone 9707 1887 or visit www.berwickmontuna.com.au