Berwick Star News - 20th August 2020

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Thursday, 20 August, 2020

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Education choices Whether you’re looking for a religious-based education, a super STEM focus or access to excellent sporting opportunities, Berwick Star News’ special Education Choices feature will help point you in the right direction. All of these schools - like St Margaret’s and Berwick Grammar School, pictured here - offer caring, supportive environments and can provide you with further information to help you make the decision. Step inside and start your new school journey!

Scholarships for 2022 Academic and Music Scholarships are now on offer for Years 5 to 11 entry in 2022.

Find out more and register at www.stmargarets.vic.edu.au/scholarships BERWICK CAMPUS, COEDUCATIONAL - ELC to Year 6, GIRLS - Year 7 to 12 OFFICER CAMPUS, BOYS - Year 7 to 12 12458137-LB34-20

FOCUS ON … EDUCATION CHOICES

Adapting to challenges 2020 has brought many challenges to the whole community and Berwick Primary School has certainly been impacted.

In term 3, staff are providing a flexible and remote learning program that is engaging and interactive, balancing academic learning with wellbeing. A daily learning menu is provided online and this guides the tasks to be completed. Students have the opportunity to meet with their teachers and friends, via online platforms. This allows them to discuss learning and interact collaboratively with their peers.

The International Baccalaureate’s Primary Years Programme is the curriculum framework. The transdisciplinary, inquiry-based program is designed to foster the development of the whole child, encouraging students to take control and explore concepts and knowledge related to each unit of inquiry. The PYP focuses on the total growth of the developing child, encompassing social, physical, emotional and cultural needs, in addition to academic welfare. The PYP is very relevant in these challenging times.

Covid-19 has made it challenging to highlight the school to prospective families that are transitioning their children from kindergarten to school. Staff have been unable to conduct school tours, an important aspect of the enrolment process. To this end, Berwick Primary School has developed a Virtual Tour so that the school, its facilities and programs can be experienced. The school also has question and answer sessions, via Zoom, planned to be held

Hallam Senior College provides pathway opportunities not available at other schools.

Unique pathway to learning Parents will be able to ask questions about Berwick Primary School at upcoming Q and A sessions, to be held on Zoom. in the next few weeks.

The school is planning to conduct its sixweek transition program during term 4. During transition, children participate in activities that familiarise them with the school and staff members. Families will be notified about the program once school returns to normal operations.

If your child is starting prep in 2021 you are invited to attend one of the Q and A sessions, via Zoom in the coming weeks. Bookings are essential and must be made via schoolinterviews.com.au. Please contact the school on 9707 1026 to obtain the booking code.

Hallam Senior College provides outstanding opportunities for senior students in Years 10 to 12. The senior learning environment exists within a framework of specialisms, high expectations and pathways support.

The college offers quality teaching and learning across Yr 10, VCE, VET and VCAL in a young adult learning environment and provides pathway opportunities not available at other schools.

The college ethos balances the need for structure and processes with the understanding that students need to make decisions about their future by taking on challenges and opportunities.

Hallam Senior College provides a comprehensive senior school educational program with a focus on personalising specialisms in learning. A focus is linking learning to life and preparing young adults to confidently and successfully embrace their future by develop-

& Creative rts ing A Perform Innovation

ing skills and attributes that set students up to be productive members of society and the wider community.

Success comes in a myriad of forms. To ensure success, students need to be well organised and develop a structured pathway. The small steps of learning lead to the completion of the larger picture. At Hallam Senior College each student is encouraged to not only dream of the larger picture of success but to develop a plan where the smaller steps are clearly identified.

Staff are proud of the results students have achieved over many years. This has come about by developing an exceptional educational framework which shapes pathway provision for each student and sets expectations for student success.

Hallam Senior College is on Frawley Road.

Phone 9703 1266 to book a tour.

VET Spe ciali se Aca dem d ies

VCAL

Year 10

VCE

Sports

A young adult learning environment A wide range of quality programs within Year 10, VCE, VET, VCAL University links - Federation University Applications for 2021 are open!

Take a ‘Vitrual Tour’ on our website

PREP 2021

Take a Virtual Tour

For more information call 97071026 or visit our website 37 Fairholme Blvd Berwick 3806 www.berwickprimary.vic.edu.au berwick.ps@education.vic.gov.au

Berwick PRIMARY SCHOOL EST. 1857

Hallam Senior College Frawley Road, Hallam, Victoria 3803 P: 9703 1266 E: hallam.senior.sc@edumail.vic.gov.au facebook.com/hallamsc

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Going from good to great The Minaret College community are excitedly preparing to open their third campus in Melbourne’s south-eastern suburbs.

With existing campuses in Springvale and Officer, including early learning centres as well as primary and secondary schools, the third campus in Doveton will be dedicated to primary students.

Doveton Campus will be led by a longstanding member of staff and trusted member of the community, Fairooza Gaffar.

Minaret College was established in 1992 by Mohamed Hassan OAM. Mr Hassan saw the need for young Muslim Australians to be surrounded in an environment which caters for their academic, emotional and religious development.

The college continues to be inspired by Mr Hassan’s legacy - to produce students with a healthy Australian Muslim identity, which is connected, conscious, sincere to its traditions and committed to excellence, good citizenship and compassionate service to humanity.

Since its humble beginnings of 20 student enrolments and one classroom teacher, the college now serves the educational needs of over 2000 students and employs approximately 300 dedicated staff.

The college has grown thanks to the ongoing support of the local community, continued sense of family and outstanding academic results.

In 2019, 14 of the 92 VCE graduates achieved an ATAR above 80 percent - five of those students above 90 percent. The Dux of the college, Nour Refae achieved an ATAR of 97.65, which included the prestigious achievement of a perfect study score for one subject.

Ninety-eight percent of graduates who submitted an application for tertiary education received an offer.

College alumni include inspiring entrepreneurs, hard-working doctors and engineers, inspirational teachers, aspiring scholars and more.

Minaret College has grown to over 2000 students and employs approximately 300 dedicated staff across its campuses.

The third campus of Minaret College, in Doveton, will be dedicated to primary students.

The Minaret team celebrate the personal achievements of each of their students.

College alumni include inspiring entrepreneurs, hard-working doctors and engineers, caring teachers, aspiring scholars and more.

Testament to the vision of service to others, many alumni return to the college to share their personal experiences and inspire existing students.

Putting the student at the heart of their decisions, the college continues to make significant investments to upgrade infrastructure and facilities at both campuses. Like many

Victorian schools, Minaret College has found itself needing to transform the way learning is facilitated during Covid-19.

“It’s certainly been a time of change for all of us”, said Executive Principal Mohammed Taksim.

“The college has adapted and worked collaboratively with our families.

“We have a philosophy of continual improvement - we’re constantly seeking ways to improve what we offer.

“We are here to serve our students and families in the best way possible. My team work

tirelessly and I know our students appreciate our efforts,” he said.

Recent investments to upgrade technology at the college enabled a smooth transition to online learning for students.

The years ahead certainly seem bright for the Minaret College community.

Doveton Campus will open in 2021 and the following year will see them celebrate their 30th anniversary.

The college is now accepting enrolment applications for families wanting to join their ever-growing ‘Minaret Family’.

SERVING THE COMMUNITY

2021 ENROLMENTS NOW OPEN Doveton P-6 Officer ELC-12 Springvale ELC-12 Register Now enrol@minaret.vic.edu.au HEAD OFFICE SPRINGVALE 36-38 Lewis Street, Springvale VIC 3171 T 03 9574 0567 OFFICER CAMPUS 67 Tivendale Road, Officer VIC 3809 T 03 5943 2058 DOVETON PRIMARY CAMPUS COMMENCING 2021 146 Kidds Road, Doveton VIC 3177 T 03 9574 0567

www.minaret.vic.edu.au

enrol@minaret.vic.edu.au

fb.com/minaretcollege

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It’s the gift of curiosity Timbarra P-9 College creates a sense of belonging, achievement and actively promotes optimism, creativity, curiosity and responsibility. Our College values the home/school partnership as a means of promoting a culture of lifelong learning.

Our young people are our leaders, entrepreneurs and parents of tomorrow. An excellent education is the best gift we can give them.

Timbarra P-9 College offers an education to help develop your whole child, that’s why “we are the difference”.

Our College caters for the needs of our students today and equips them with the skills they need for their future. Our teaching philosophy and the school environment encourages and celebrates learning.

At Timbarra P-9 College: We strive to develop resilient independent learners.

We have a positive learning environment supporting the growth of each individual by offering multidimensional challenges on an

· ·

academic, emotional and social level.

develop for students a sense of their place · We in the world and an awareness of others. promote that every stage of schooling is · We equally important. foster a sense of belonging and actively · We promote hope, curiosity and creativity in all that we do.

support our students to fully embrace the · We world and the opportunities given to them to support their learning pathways.

We are proud to be part of each student’s learning journey in a contemporary world where our students are confident, adaptable, sensitive and resilient. At the end of their learning journey at Timbarra P-9 College students will have developed social competencies, have a cultural awareness with a global perspective, and be confident with a strong sense of self.

In 2017 we launched Timbarra’s Sports Academy, which is open to students in Years 5-9 All students who are selected for this program participate in a Sports Science program -

Timbarra P-9 College offers students the gift of an excellent education.

Iron Tribe, which is a professionally structured program aimed at developing body control and awareness, reducing susceptibility to injury and improving overall performance. Students can choose to specialise in one of four sports; basketball (Casey Cavaliers), netball (Inspire Sports Group), AFL (Angus Scott) and soccer (Lou Kastner).

In 2017 the Young Warriors Music Academy welcomed students Years 6-9 who have a love and passion for music. It is an initiative of the Australian Music Association and was created to support the development of live music in Australia. Young Warriors are rock bands that gig, tour, record and play professional standard performances. Prospective students complete an expression of interest form and those selected participate in an extra band session a week.

The year 2021 culminates with the opening of our purpose-built STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) Academy, which will allow all students to experience a wide range of integrated and exciting technologies. Students in Years 7to 9 who have a special interest and a commitment to developing their STEAM skills can complete an expression of interest form for consideration to be accepted into the STEAM Academy, which will challenge and extend their expertise in this area.

We endeavour and strive to serve Timbarra’s greatest resource - our students!

At times like these, the learning must still go on

By Brendan Kelly, executive principal at Rivercrest and Hillcrest Christian Colleges

learning. An example that springs to mind recently is the preps celebrating 100 days of learning, whereby the teachers and students dressed up in olden days clothes. Many new initiatives and challenges have also evolved where students are encouraged to take on weekly challenges. One such challenge was for the students to take a photo outside of something interesting and particularly beautiful. The goal was for some enjoyment but also to gather some great samples of student

learning and celebrate these.

While the world around us reels from this pandemic, we can be assured that our God continues to watch over us, blesses us with his peace and assures us of his love. We must never lose hope, we must always know that the best is yet to come even if it is hard to see at the time. I look forward to another great term and also in eager anticipation to when we can have all our precious students back on site.

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Hello, I’m Brendan Kelly, executive principal at Rivercrest and Hillcrest Christian Colleges.

We recognise these are extraordinary times and we want all our families to know that their school is looking out for them and their children.

All of our teachers and staff have been working very hard to ensure that every sin-

gle student receives a teaching and learning programme of the highest possible standard.

We all hope that this pandemic will be over soon, but while it is with us, we must respond appropriately. However, we also want to create a learning programme that engages all students and ensures that they continue to thrive in their learning.

Students right across Hillcrest and Rivercrest have been actively engaged in daily

Now taking Prep enrolments 2021 DUE TO THE CURRENT COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS, ENROLMENT FORMS AND VIRTUAL PRIMARY TOURS ARE NOW AVAILABLE ON OUR SCHOOL WEBSITE WWW.TIMBARRAP9.VIC.EDU.AU WE HOPE TOURS WILL RESUME IN TERM 4 FOR ANY ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT OUR COLLEGE OFFICE ON 9704 2744

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School spirit shines bright

Mrs Rawlings says “a team effort” has helped staff, students and their families get through the pandemic. world-class. In Junior School, the unique Explicit Teaching Model enhances learning across all subjects.

“The program is taught explicitly to ensure that all essential skills are covered, and no-one is left behind,” Mrs Rawlings says.

“It’s so successful that most of our students are well ahead of expected learning levels.”

For older students, Haileybury’s Parallel Education Model combines co-education and single gender schooling for brilliant academic results, while promoting socialisation between genders.

Students from ELC to Year 4 attend co-

educational classes, while Middle and Senior School students attend mostly single gender classes.

“Outside class, students of all genders mix as they would in the real world,” Mrs Rawlings said.

“It works incredibly well, and our students and parents love it.”

Since arriving at Haileybury in 2016, Mrs Rawlings has enhanced Edrington’s academic excellence, pastoral care, and community connections. Families are always welcome.

All students are encouraged to contribute to their neighbourhood, and many do so through connections with local organisations and charities.

Mrs Rawlings is confident that students, staff, and families will thrive beyond the pandemic, while continuing to develop a shared sense of community.

She believes that the added resilience students have developed in 2020 will provide a foundation for continued academic and social success.

“Our students have thrived this year and will no doubt continue to do so when we return to whatever our new normal is on our beautiful campus,” she said.

For more information, visit www.haileybury.com.au/about/campus_tour/berwick or call 9904 6006.

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Resilience and agility have shined right through this year at Haileybury’s Berwick campus.

Staff, students, and families have shown incredible resourcefulness to pivot to online learning twice as Covid-19 continues to affect Victoria.

Learning at Haileybury has remained a priority through this time and online classes have followed the regular school timetable, learning everything from mathematics and science to drama, physical education, and the entrepreneurial Curious Minds program. Edrington’s strong sense of community and student wellbeing have also continued to be of central importance as staff, students and parents work through this unprecedented time together.

With 830 students, the campus has built a reputation for offering wonderful facilities and education programs while being small enough to nurture each individual student.

Head of Edrington Campus Jeanette Rawlings said the current situation has, at times, been challenging.

“I’m incredibly proud of our students and staff, and so grateful for the unwavering support of our families,” she said.

“It really has been a team effort and we feel even stronger as we prepare for 2021. Whatever happens, we will be even better placed to educate, support and nurture our students.”

Edrington’s spirit is shining as it continues to carve its own identity while incorporating the best of Haileybury’s acclaimed academic program.

The 27-hectare Berwick campus boasts numerous sporting fields and modern facilities, including a 25-metre indoor heated swimming pool, Arts Centre, and Hall.

Haileybury’s learning programs are also

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Turning of the sod in February 2020 of a new facility at the Officer campus – L-R Claudia (campus captain), Lisa Harkin (head of campus), Vincent Feeney (principal), Brady (campus captain).

Together despite distance

By Vincent J Feeney, Principal, St Francis Xavier College Berwick, Officer and Beaconsfield Our Officer Campus, for Year 7 to 9 students is focussed on preparing our young people to enter a world that demands flexibility, problem solving, creativity and resilience.

Many might think that the disruption of 2020 has the capacity to set students back. We take the opposite view.

We don’t want this to go on forever. Especially given we are building an exciting new classroom facility to further promote independent and flexible learning through a differentiated classroom program.

But we do value the skills students are developing in self-management and personal responsibility.

They have not lost connection with their dedicated teachers who engage with them as individuals and who understand them as people daily building their learning strengths and honing their talents.

They are valued for who they are now and also for who they can become in the future which is why we have Extension Academies in

science, arts, sport and humanities and more.

It is also why we offer the City Experience and Outward Bound.

“The Year 8 City Experience was hands down the best week of my whole school life.

I never knew the laneways in our city had so much history and cool street art.”

We want the best for our students and a thriving culture, so we have high expectations of ourselves as leaders.

Providing a culture of welcome is important to us. Our students love coming to school each day to belong and learn.

Here student leadership is real. Leaders who play a big role in shaping their Campus through regular consultations with the Head of Campus and her team. Consultations about learning, building design, campus cultural activities and celebrations and more.

“Being Campus Captain has helped me to understand that my influence, inspiration and kindness can bring out the best in others.“ And parents are a major part of the success of the Campus. Happy students mean happy parents.

As a Year 8 parent commented, “The staff at Officer Campus are focused on the whole person - their learning and progression. For our children, that has made the experience so much richer.”

I invite you to join us on Tuesday 8 September from 7pm to 8pm for our live Year 7 2022 Information Night - Online Q & A. The link for this evening will be available on our website www.sfx.vic.edu.au or email enrol@sfx.vic. edu.au

St Francis Xavier College Berwick, Oficer, and Beaconsfield

Year 7 2022 Information Night – Online Q&A Tuesday 8 September, 7.00pm – 8.00pm Visit www.sfx.vic.edu.au for more information 03 9707 3111

A pathway for every child

info@sfx.vic.edu.au

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The step up into school Moving with your child from early learning into primary school comes with new adventures and opportunities.

Taking the first step into school is a milestone that can be accompanied by many questions. When change comes, it is not always easy to navigate and children need support as they move from infancy to independence.

To provide the most supportive and nurturing process for families moving into prep, Heritage College offers a pathway to primary school called ‘Step into Prep’. The program provides a helpful information session for parents in a relaxed environment where families can meet their child’s educator with plenty of time for questions and answers.

If you are considering prep for your child at Heritage College, we invite you to attend orientation days in Term 3. Orientation days allow incoming prep students to view the classroom spaces, meet their teacher and classmates and familiarise themselves with learning areas and activities. When the time comes to start prep, everything is familiar for both child and parents. In this way, making the move into school is less of a leap and more of a familiar ‘step’.

During their prep year, children build confidence and develop literacy and numeracy skills through hands-on, play-based learning.

Heritage College has specialist educators who provide a nurturing, supportive environment, delivering an introduction to visual and performing art, music and language.

Prep students interact with the broader campus community as they participate in the ‘buddies’ program with Year 5 students and other joint campus events. The first year of

Prep teacher, Mrs van Dyk with prep students. primary school contains many rich learning experiences for academic, social and emotional growth. If you are considering Heritage

College for your child, the parent information session is one of the first steps in your journey towards prep.

Enrolments are open throughout the lockdown period. To find out more, visit heritagecollege.vic.edu.au/prep.

Grammar school puts emphasis on growing good men

By Dr Steven Middleton, vice principal, St Margaret’s and Berwick Grammar School Established in 1926, St Margaret’s and Berwick Grammar School is an independent non-denominational school with a proud tradition of educational excellence.

Our unique educational model of learning provides a coeducational ELC and Junior School with single gender senior campuses for girls and boys. This permits us to deliver academic and wellbeing programs in ways and environments that we believe suits single gender academic learning best. The existence of brother and sister schools also permits healthy and appropriate social and emotional development that evolves from girls and boys working together.

At our Senior Boys campus, our goal is ‘To Grow Good Men.’ At our purpose-built and designed school for boys we proudly offer a distinctive education, one that values the pursuit of academic achievement and excellence, whilst promoting the development of character. Our ap-

proach to learning is both innovative and traditional, adopting 21st century pedagogies whilst also appreciating that enduring values denote men of character.

The best education for boys is one rich in nurturing the mind, but that also seeks to nurture the heart and spirit of each student.

At our school learning for each boy occurs as much in the outdoors, on the sporting field, as a member of a debating team or musical ensemble as it does in the mathematics or geography classroom.

We believe that a successful education for each boy occurs when he is known, valued, celebrated and cared for in an environment which promotes challenge, excellence, achievement and personal growth. A successful education for the world our boys will enter as men is one in which they will be required to have skills as much as knowledge.

The campus offers a purpose-built and designed school for boys with a distinctive education.

Prep 2021 A brighter future on the best foundation.

Campus locations at Oicer & Narre Warren South.

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Poetry prize

Keep the kids active

By Danielle Kutchel As we once again switch to online learning, it can be difficult to balance the range of subjects that kids are exposed to each day.

And with so much to fit into one day, it’s easy to overlook one of the most important aspects of the curriculum: physical education.

But PE at home doesn’t have to be stuffy and regulated. Consider slipping it in as part of the day and you’ll be well on your way to ticking those education boxes!

MAKE IT FUN We hear often from people who say they ‘hated PE at school’, with many looking to drop it the moment they could. Meanwhile, the mean PE teacher has become a movie trope. The answer? Make PE great again by injecting a bit of fun into the routine.

PE doesn’t just have to be a class game of cricket or following the provided curriculum in regimented steps. Homeschooling allows for a certain amount of creativity (especially the second time around!) Invent games for your kids or make it competitive: who can jump the highest? Who can run the furthest? What’s the latest crazy TikTok dance routine - see what the kids can do with it! Think about what games and sports your kids prefer and encourage them to keep those up. Older children, for example, might like to go for a bike ride or run. For younger kids, break out the chalk and draw some hopscotch on the pavement outside for an outside-the-box activity. Don’t forget to use what the school has provided. They will have ideas and suggestions for you and there will, of course, be certain tasks the students need to complete, but that’s no excuse for a boring lesson.

Think outside the box when it comes to PE. MAKE IT INCIDENTAL Your kids are used to going out at lunch and burning off some steam. Don’t let them become couch potatoes just because they’re learning from home. Schedule lunch time in for a consistent o’clock each day and make that the time you head outside. If there’s nothing prepared for lunch, get the kids to jump on their scooters or bikes and head to the shops - not only does this ensure they get their physical activity quote up for the day, but it doubles as an excuse to get some chores done! You can even use PE to break up the day. Finished that maths task? Celebrate with 20 star jumps to get the blood pumping before you get back into the books.

MAKE IT REAL Don’t be afraid to ask for help! If you’re struggling, get in touch with your child’s PE teacher and ask for advice. They’re there to support you and they’d probably be grateful to hear from you and get an update on their students.

Harkaway Hills College is excited to announce that Felicity van Rensburg has won the Year 5/6 category in the state-wide Independent Schools Victoria Student Poetry Competition with her poem “After the Fire”.

According to the competition judges, Felicity’s poem provided readers with “an evocative rollercoaster ride, the exuberant lines overflow with carefully crafted imagery of beauty, devastation and rebirth. It takes the breath away.”

In addition, Harkaway Hill College received two honourable mentions in the same category: Grace Sudjono (Woman at the Window) and Raquel Cruz (A Stormy Day). For the College to receive three awards from such a small cohort of students is extraordinary.

The inaugural ISV poetry competition was open to students of all ages at all schools across Victoria. The winners were judged from more than 300 entries, from students in prep to year 12, enrolled in Independent, Government and Catholic schools.

Students were asked to write on any subject, with the optional theme of ‘Hope’, a very apt theme given the challenges facing students at the current time.

Harkaway Hills College includes significant exposure to classical literature within its English program, and students are exposed to the beauty of poetry and prose from an early age.

The College carefully selects enriching texts in order to provide children with a love of quality literature and an understanding of the impact of the written word.

According to Mary Broadsmith, principal of Harkaway Hills College, “children are more than ready to be challenged in the areas of classical literature and poetry from an early age. They have a deep appreciation of beautiful words and imagery in a way that is often taken for granted by adults.

“We are immensely proud of the effort put in by all our students, and we are honoured to be in receipt of three awards in recognition of this effort.”

A big congratulations to Felicity, Grace and Raquel, and to their teacher Johanna O’Farrell for supporting the students through the creation of their poems.

Excerpt from “After the Fire” By Felicity van Rensburg: Glorious mountains, luscious bush, Ancient gumtrees, ferns and florals, Sounds of joyful birds singing with delight, Nature pristine, reflecting the Creator’s glory.

Majestic, towering trees, cover the hilltops, Patriarchs of the forest, Emerald green and full of life, In the breeze, their delicate leaves descend.

Harkaway Hills College student Felicity van Rensburg took out the state-wide prize.

/BradBattinMP 5953 0216

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“Thank you to all the teachers & teaching support staff for ensuring our student’s learning continues from home during this difficult period.” eriod.”

www.bradbattin.com.au brad.battin@parliament.vic.gov.au

Edward O’Donohue MLC LIBERAL STATE MEMBER FOR EASTERN VICTORIA

5941 1112 12457979-DL34-20

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edward.o’donohue@parliament.vic.gov.au au

Authorised by Brad Battin MP 3/445 Princes HWY OFFICER 3809 and Edward O’Donohue 51 James St Pakenham 3810. Funded from the Parliamentary Budget.

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A positivity and purpose Staff and students at St Catherine’s Primary School in Berwick are finding many ways to stay positive.

Some of those who are attending school have moved out of their portable classrooms and are now enjoying fully refurbished learning spaces, as the school recovers from a fire that caused extensive damage in 2019.

Yet for the majority of students, term 3 has seen a return to learning at home.

Principal Kevin Browning said that while remote schooling is challenging, the school community has embraced it.

“Remote learning is definitely running more smoothly this time around given our experience in term 2 and the growth in confidence for students, teachers and parents.

“We’re in regular contact with the families, and we’re able to reach out to those who might be struggling and offer practical support and care. There’s also some flexibility in what we can offer, particularly for students who may benefit with onsite supervision.

“The feedback that we’ve received from students and their families is really positive,” he said.

Mr Browning is appreciative of the enormous commitment and effort teachers are giving to their work, and the creative ways in which they are adapting to the changed approach to teaching and learning.

“There’s a level of familiarity with it now.

We’re taking it a little bit further in terms of thinking deeper about assessment and evi-

dence of learning.

“It’s been an opportunity for us to fast-track the adoption of some great digital tools, and a catalyst for all of us to learn new skills and to explore new ways of doing things,” he said Kristy Gray, a parent at St Catherine’s, said that the staff have been awesome during remote schooling.

“A huge thankyou goes out to the teaching team. It’s been such a challenging time for us all and I can’t be happier with the care and education my children have received,” she said.

Director of Catholic Education for the Diocese of Sale, Maria Kirkwood, said all Catholic schools in the Sale Diocese are working hard to provide students with a sense of normality, and to ensure their safety and wellbeing.

“Our school staff have exhibited a confidence in their craft - teaching, counselling and leading their students in new and innovative ways. We appreciate the efforts made by teaching and support staff and the hard work of families as our faith and spirit guide us through these unprecedented times,” Ms Kirkwood said.

St Catherine’s Primary School teacher Yveie Tonks.

Enrol now for 2021 At St Catherine’s Primary School, we celebrate the faith and learning journey of every student, ensuring they’re equipped with the skills and resources they need to reach their full potential.

Enrolments for 2021 are open.

Be quick - places are illing fast!

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73 Ridgemont Drive, Berwick VIC 3806 Web: www.stcberwick.catholic.edu.au Email: enrolments@stcberwick.catholic.edu.au Ph: (03) 9702 1466

ST CATHERINE’S CATHOLIC PRIMARY SCHOOL Our faith is our strength

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Meeting the challenge

By Henry Grossek, principal, Berwick Lodge Primary School We never saw this coming. I expect no-one did.

Reflecting on my pre-service training all those years ago, dealing with challenging situations and crises was a topic of some focus, simply because sooner or later we, as teachers, would be confronted by an unexpected situation of some sort or another.

Managing such events in a calm, rational and most effective manner with the least potential negative consequences is essential.

From my perspective, schools weren’t wellprepared in a number of ways, initially, to deal with the myriad of challenges that have been thrown at schools because of this pandemic.

Many of these have been very well documented and the community need no reminding of them.

To begin with, I would say that the majority of the challenges we have faced in schools since that week before the end of term 1, a time which seems so long ago now, can be described in terms of four major areas - teaching and learning, wellbeing, politics and lastly, change itself.

In terms of teaching and learning, the move to remote online learning has been a real eyeopener.

One day, perhaps not now though, we will look back and acknowledge the opportunity that this upheaval has provided to fast-track our competence with, and use of digital technologies. From a far-off place in the future, that will be seen as a positive. The current times have also provided staff and parents the opportunity to build on existing relationships the level of communication between staff and parents systemically, anecdotally, has risen significantly. That can only be good.

Schools have faced many challenges this year - but there is hope for the future says Henry Grossek, principal of Berwick Lodge Primary School.

From a staff perspective, to survive, let alone thrive in tough times requires very high levels of camaraderie, teamwork, trust and sacrifice.

From what I have heard, systemically and in many schools, this has been a time of almost universal enhanced staff bonding and uniting.

From a public-school perspective, that sense of systemic collaboration and team work, has been most evident and is, in my opinion, one of our great strengths.

The remote online teaching program has certainly spotlighted the gulf between those

families and schools that are well-equipped technologically from those that are not. This has served notice of the lack of equity of opportunity that exists across our education system. That has caused undue angst, anxiety and stress for students, parents and schools alike.

Hopefully in the aftermath of this pandemic we, as a society, reframe our approach to the provision of school education for our children.

The area of wellbeing, from my observation has been the most vexed. Illustrative of this is the occasion not more than a week ago, when an anxious parent told me that she whilst she was initially worried that her child might slip back in their learning under the remote learning environment, she was now more worried about her child’s social and emotional wellbeing given their isolation from classmates and friends. Video conferencing and regular communication between staff, students and parents certainly is of benefit, but the lack of actual connection, between us all has been a huge challenge. For many reasons, we are all struggling to some extent. Keeping in touch as best we can is most important.

Then there is the political dimension. Let’s just note that it exists, and whilst we can feel that we may be caught between a rock and a hard place in many ways, focusing on what we can control is of best value.

Dealing well with change per se is a no mean achievement for many of us. Change of this nature - the impact of a world-wide pandemic, tests us all and to the limit in many cases. Viewed in as positive a way as possible, I am hopeful that the amazing adaptability of humans is showing hopeful signs as we move deeply into this second wave of remote learning. Anecdotally, we are all making adjustments as to how we approach this challenging journey. Therein lies the hope for the future.

Maranatha Christian School

2020 OPEN MORNING Friday 9 October 10am-12pm

Passionate about student wellbeing and academic growth

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Introducing your

Henry Grossek

John Shaw

LOOKING ON THE BRIGHT SIDE

Adversity does not create character it reveals it.

I am sure much will be written in the future about our College’s experiences, actions and reactions during the time of Covid 19. A leader is only as good as those around them and this is even more relevant during adversity. Everyday when I leave the school, I am thankful for the sense of school community and support that is evident in everything we do.

There are many pleasures that reward being a school principal. In my 30 years as the founding principal of Berwick Lodge Primary School, I have been most fortunate to have enjoyed countless such occasions each and every year and for so many diverse reasons.

Welcoming our Prep students during the month of November, with our Prep transition program in full swing, is a sheer delight. There’s very little that could be more rewarding for teachers and school principals than to witness the growth and development of children into adulthood.

We will be a school of over 1500 in 2021. Our planning becomes more important than ever.

Our College values of Respect, Integrity Care and Excellence will continue to be the foundation of our school actions, attitudes and behaviours.

We will continue our focus on creating and maintaining a safe and orderly learning environment, coupled with a commitment to student health and wellbeing.

We will continue to hold high expectations for achievement, behaviour and attitudes to learning.

We will continue to provide personalised learning programs, intervention and inclusion programs, and offer innovative, broad and engaging experiences for all of our students We will continue to seek the best teachers and provide ongoing support and development for all our staff.

We will continue to be open, transparent and timely in all of our communication.

We will continue to be proud of Alkira Secondary College.

Hampton Park Secondary College

Berwick Lodge Primary School

Alkira Secondary College

58-96 Fordholm Rd, HAMPTON PARK VIC 3976 Phone (03) 8795 9400

139-145 Mansfield Street, BERWICK Ph: 03 9707 1766 www.berwicklodgeps.vic.edu.au

15 Nurture Avenue CRANBOURNE NORTH VIC 3977 www.alkirasecondarycollege.com.au

hampton.park.sc@edumail.vic.gov.au | hpsc.vic.edu.au

Mrs Jeanette Rawlings Head of Berwick

This is my 4th year as Principal of St Margaret’s and Berwick Grammar School after having held leadership positions at some of Melbourne’s top independent private schools including Korowa, Wesley, MLC and Lauriston.

St Margaret’s and Berwick Grammar School is unique as it offers a coeducational junior school and single gender education senior schools on dedicated campuses in Berwick and Officer. This model allows us to honour everything we know about providing a great education as boys and girls learn differently as they progress through school.

While we focus on academic outcomes, we take a holistic approach to education leveraging athleticism, artistry and adventure to help students find their spark helping to grow good men and build empowered young women who know they can.

St Margaret’s and Berwick Grammar School Phone 9703 8111 www.stmargarets.vic.edu.au berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

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Everything we do at the school is actioned through our values of: COURAGE to do the right thing, CURIOSITY to know and learn, CHARACTER to be one’s true self and RESPECT to live wisely and compassionately with others and the planet. We use these values to frame everything from HR processes to curriculum design.

Jeanette Rawlings has extensive experience in school leadership, teaching and learning theory, and student wellbeing. She continues to build on Haileybury Berwick’s exceptional outcomes for students during these unprecentented times.

Since arriving in 2016, Mrs Rawlings has enhanced Berwick’s academic excellence, pastoral care and community connections.

As Head of Campus to 830 students, Mrs Rawlings places great focus on student wellbeing, ensuring all students receive the support they need and the encouragement to thrive both academically and personally.

Haileybury Berwick has a proud history of community engagement and Mrs Rawlings encourages her students to contribute to their neighbourhood through connections with local organisations and charities.

This informs the campus’ strong identity while incorporating the best of Haileybury’s acclaimed programs.

Her experience and leadership contributed to Haileybury’s success at the 2018 Australian Education Awards, winning Primary School of the Year – Non-government and Australian School of the Year.

In 2020, Mrs Rawlings is leading Berwick through online classes as Haileybury successfully adapts to new ways of teaching and learning.

Ms Mary Broadsmith Harkaway Hills College provides a unique environment that focuses on the education of the whole person in partnership with parents. No student, and no family, slips through the cracks. This commitment is more essential than ever before as we face an unusual and challenging school year.

Despite the current difficulties, our school has been filled with enriching experiences. Yes, we miss face-toface learning, and we have not been able to take part in many of the exciting extracurricular activities that would normally fill the school year. However, instead of reflecting on what we have lost, we are choosing to focus on what we have gained in 2020.

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Ms Annette Rome FACE FACEL

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There’s no escaping the fact that the coronavirus pandemic has had a monumental impact on schools this year – and not one that we will cherish in years to come. In saying that, it has stretched us all, that in itself, not a bad thing. We all wish the very best education possible for all children. That is our ideal, and that is what is driving all school personnel in these tough times.

Despite our school being in remote learning at this time, we remain committed to work collaboratively with our staff, student leaders, school council, parents and network partners to plan for a promising and positive 2021.

Though dispersed, we have all gained resilience, hope, and a deeper understanding of what is truly important. We have gained a stronger community that can persevere through anything. We have shared our talents through video concerts, we have challenged ourselves in online art, writing, poetry and public speaking competitions, and we have grown in creativity as we embrace what is positive. Harkaway Hills College is a hub of hope and joy, and all things considered, it really has been a wonderful year.

Haileybury

Harkaway Hills College

138 High Street, BERWICK VIC 3806 Phone 9904 6006 www.haileybury.vic.edu.au

20 A’Beckett Road NARRE WARREN NORTH Phone 9796 9821 Thursday, 20 August, 2020

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One size does not fit all and neither should education. Every student is unique and individual in their interests, passions and learning needs. Here at Hampton Park Secondary College we are committed to embedding an education model that is studentcentred and focused on personalised learning pathways.

Our world is rapidly changing, so we must better prepare students.

At HPSC, we believe that ‘education should be done with students, rather than to students’.

When students are passionately engaged in their education, at their point of need, learning deepens and outcomes improve. Students at Hampton Park Secondary College are offered three programs – Explore (Year 7), Enhance (Years 8-10) and Excel (Year 11- 12) in a vertical learning approach whereby students are grouped according to their passions and learning needs rather than simply by age.

We recognise that all students are unique and different with individual interests, and as such we want to provide students with the opportunity to individualise their educational program. We do this by giving control back to students and allowing them to select their classes from over 100 new electives, such as Animation, Medicine and Disease, Planet Earth, Robotics and Snack Attack, Fantastic Beasts, and much more.

Our innovative, tailor-made approach to learning assists students so that no student is held back, and no one is left behind. Learning is an organic process and by creating optimal conditions for learning, students thrive.

To discover our individually tailored student programmes and discuss what learning opportunities Hampton Park Secondary College, please visit our website or make direct enquiries to Wayne Haworth, Principal, via Hampton.park.sc@education.vic.gov.au or by calling 03 8795 9400

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Wayne Haworth

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School Principals

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SCHOOL OF EXCELLENCE • Australian FLL Robotics Champions 2013 and Victorian FLL Robotics Champions 2015 • Radio program and ilm making • Beautiful Sensory & Community Gardens • Augmented Reality Extension Program • Whole school LOTE Mandarin program

Kevin Heinze Best School Garden Award 2018 P: 9707 1766 F: 9796 2198 E: berwick.lodge.ps@edumail.vic.gov.au Visit our website to check out the virtual tour www.berwicklodgeps.vic.edu.au 12456601-CG34-20

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BERWICK

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Thursday, 20 August, 2020

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Bryce a blood champion

Stabbing widow sues State

Turf stars recognised

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Preppies celebrate 100 days!

By Brendan Rees While this year has proven to be topsyturvy for students, preps at Berwick Lodge Primary School have had a reason to smile after celebrating a significant milestone of 100 days of schooling.

To mark the occasion, the excited youngsters took park in virtual activities including a baking competition, a movie night, and literacy and numeracy tasks themed around the number 100.

Principal Henry Grossek said he was proud of how the school community had “made the best of a very difficult situation”.

Preps Archie and Andi celebrate 100 days of school.

Picture: ROB KELLY

Done for donuts NARRE WARREN FOR ALL YOUR AUTOMOTIVE NEEDS

A check of the car identified the registered owner to be a suspended driver, police say.

The car was intercepted and the driver, who wasn’t the registered owner, was also found to be allegedly suspended.

Police allege the probationary driver, who wasn’t displaying any ‘p’ plates, explained he had his three mates in the car as they were go-

ing to buy donuts.

Due to the drivers suspended licence status the vehicle was impounded for 30 days at a cost of $1019.85.

The 24-year-old Narre Warren driver is expected to be charged on summons with driving while suspended and failing to display ‘p’ plates.

The driver and his three passengers, a

19-year-old from Narre Warren, 21-year-old from Hallam and a 20-year-old from Hampton Park, were also found to be in breach of the directions issued by the Chief Health Officer and each issued a $1652 fine.

The directions by the Chief Health Officer, under the State of Emergency declared in Victoria, have been enacted to help stop the spread of coronavirus.

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A driver with a suspended licence has been caught breaking lockdown restrictions in Narre Warren, telling police he was going to buy donuts with three mates on Saturday 15 August.

Public Order Response Team (PORT) officers had been patrolling when they noticed a car wouldn’t pass or drive alongside their vehicle on Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road about 7.40pm.

Remove all plastic lids.

Place small lids in general waste.

Plastic bottles and containers

Glass bottles and jars

1

2

3

4

Clean paper and lattened cardboard

5

Loose metal lids

Aluminium and steel - empty aerosols, foil, cans and trays

Unacceptable

No milk and juice cartons

No soft plastics

No small plastic lids

6

7

No bagged recycling

No household waste

No clothing, shoes, bedding, or materials

No nappies

No electrical goods

No car or household batteries

No car parts, motor oil or chemical containers

No food or garden waste

No black plastics

or pans

No shredded paper

Soft Plastics

B

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Thursday, 20 August, 2020

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NEWS

IN BRIEF

Covid cases climb

By Brendan Rees Casey has recorded 32 new cases of Covid-19, according to the state’s latest health data.

At the time of going to press on 19 August, Coronavirus infections in Casey stood at 355 active cases.

Victoria had recorded 222 new cases of Covid-19 in the 24 hours to Wednesday 19 August, with the total number of cases now at 17,238.

In neighbouring local government areas, Greater Dandenong has 206 active cases while Cardinia has 94.

The state’s total has risen to 7274 active

cases, including 1036 active cases of infected health care workers.

There have been 17 new deaths from Covid-19 reported including one man in his 60s, one woman in her 70s, one man in his 70s, two women in their 80s, four men in their 80s, four women in their 90s and four men in their 90s.

There are 665 hospital patients with Covid-19, with 45 in intensive care.

Meanwhile, Victoria Police issued 154 fines to individuals for breaching the Chief Health Officer directions the 24 hours to Wednesday 19 August, including 19 for failing to wear a face covering, 17 at vehicle checkpoints, and 35 for curfew breaches.

Examples of people breaching the rules in the 24 hours to 19 August include: A woman walking on Spencer Street in Melbourne without a mask A man who travelled from Melbourne to Geelong to go fishing A man and woman from Darebin who do not live at the same residence and drove together outside of curfew hours to withdraw money from an ATM. In the 48 hours to 19 August, a man was fined after driving erratically in a vehicle at Brimbank and had travelled beyond the 5km limit rule. Police allege his reason was to buy a fish tank for his frog.

· · · ·

Firefighters at the scene.

Picture: NARRE WARREN CFA

Crews respond to gas leak Firefighters have prevented a hazardous incident after a forklift battery began emitting a toxic gas at the rear of a Narre Warren South shopping centre on Saturday 15 August.

Crews were called to a loading dock at Casey Central Shopping Centre just before 5am, after being alerted to a fire indicator panel alarm.

A Fire Rescue Victoria spokesperson said a Hazmat unit from Hallam Fire Station also responded following a strong smell of gas detected at the scene.

A Narre Warren CFA spokesman said they discovered an electric forklift battery that had been left on charge causing it to overheat and indicate “high readings” of carbon monoxide.

Crews brought the scene under control at 6.30am after removing the forklift from the main building.

One appliance from Cranbourne Fire Station also attended.

Paramedics were called to scene at 6.10am, but no injuries were reported.

Double trouble for teen

Bryce Wickham of Narre Warren State Emergency Service donates his blood.

Bryce rolls up his sleeve for worthy cause

By Brendan Rees Narre Warren State Emergency Service volunteer Bryce Wickham has rolled up his sleeve to generously donate blood to help those in need.

The 2020 Emergency Services Blood Challenge is two thirds of the way through, and SES members are well on their way to eclipsing last year’s total.

Mr Wickham is one of 147 SES volunteers to have made 251 donations so far - up 48 per cent from this time in 2019.

“This would be my 25th donation of blood over 10 years, some of which have been for the Emergency Services Challenge,” Mr Wickham

said. “I try to donate every three months, however, there have been a few breaks due to overseas travel.”

With just a slight pinch, Mr Wickham said giving blood was rewarding and straightforward.

“It also helps that the staff are always friendly and make you feel very comfortable,” he said.

“Years back, a friend told me she was donating for the first time. After she explained how simple and smooth the process was I thought I’d give it a go. For me, it’s another way of lending an arm and blood to help others.”

Three lives can be saved by just one blood

donation, meaning SES members may have helped up to 753 people who have had medical complications, cancer treatment, road trauma injuries and more.

Emergency service workers and volunteers who want to take part should join a Lifeblood Team, and call 13 14 95 or go online to make a blood donation appointment before 31 August. Australia Red Cross Lifeblood centres are an essential service remaining open during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Donors are reminded that Lifeblood facilities across Victoria are strictly regulated, and always comply with the highest safety and hygiene standards, including extensive cleaning

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Life. Focused.

A teenager has been arrested after allegedly being clocked travelling more than double the speed limit in Clyde.

Police detected a car travelling 170 km/h in an 80km zone at 8.20pm on Thursday 13 August.

Cardinia Highway Patrol officers attempted to intercept the car on Limeburner Grove in Botanic Ridge but the driver allegedly failed to stop.

The Police Air Wing assisted officers on the ground, who successfully deployed tyre deflation options shortly after, police say.

It’s alleged the driver of the car then returned to Limeburner Grove and pulled into an address before being arrested.

A 17-year-old male was interviewed and is expected to be charged with conduct endangering life and failing to stop. The teen was also fined for breaching the directions of the Chief Health Officer.

He will appear at a children’s court at a later date.

For all enquiries please visit: www.berwickjeweller.com.au or email: berjewel@ozemail.com.au Drysdales Berwick Village Jewellery

DRYSDALES –the Jewellers 2 Blackburne Square Quality jewellery is forever Berwick VIC 3806 03 9707 2647 | berjewel@ozemail.com.au Thursday, 20 August, 2020

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STAR NEWS 3

“Think about who you love, then think about them in ICU.” For Sarah, who’s been battling coronavirus for nearly 8 weeks, being separated from her two little boys, has been heartwrenching. On top of coronavirus attacking every one of her body systems, intense pain and acute breathing difficulty, she still has no idea when she will be well enough to see her boys. Sarah’s hope is that by us all doing the right thing, no one else will have to experience the heartache her family has.

Please, play your part and help stop the spread of the virus. If you have symptoms - please get tested. Payments of $450 are available to help you stay home and wait for your test result.

To learn more of Sarah’s story go to vic.gov.au/CORONAVIRUS Authorised and published by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

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Thursday, 20 August, 2020

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NEWS

After jail, calls for reform

By Tess Kelly A former gambling addict who was jailed for stealing money has joined a chorus of voices to call for gambling reform in the City of Casey.

In a submission to the council, Carolyn Crawford begged the City of Casey to join the Alliance for Gambling Reform after her gambling addiction led to her being imprisoned in 2016.

The Alliance for Gambling Reform is a collaboration of organisations and local councils that aims to reform the gambling industry to reduce the harm it causes, particularly in local communities.

Ms Crawford was charged with stealing $400,000 from her previous employer over a period of seven years. She used the money to play the poker machines in the Casey area.

“I had become addicted ... the money I took went into those dreaded machines,” she said.

Ms Crawford said gambling in Casey is at an extremely dangerous level with hotels and clubs operating for 20 hours per day, prior to COVID-19.

“It’s just awful and really needs to improve.”

By joining the alliance, Ms Crawford said the council would have more power to slow and stop the increase of poker machines being installed at gambling venues.

“If we can all fight this battle and at least stop one person ending up the same as me I would be very happy.”

The alliance’s executive director Tony Mohr has called for the City of Casey to join the alliance as a leadership council, working alongside 22 other local councils to advocate for state and national gambling reform.

“No level of government is closer to the devastation poker machines cause than the local council,” he said.

Mr Mohr said gambling is especially devastating in the City of Casey with $132 million being lost to these machines per year. This is the second highest loss for any council area in Victoria, falling just behind the City of Brimbank.

The alliance is seeking $25,000 from the City of Casey to fund support to councils to prevent

gambling harm, and continue research and awareness for its damaging effects.

“The alliance also works with leadership councils on local priorities such as community education, improving council policy and raising awareness of gambling harm through local advocacy,” Mr Mohr said.

Ms Crawford said, if the City of Casey were to join the alliance, it would show they cared for their residents.

“Any council fighting the battle against any increase in pokies in the area should be very proud of themselves and I hold any council doing this very warmly in my heart,” she said.

Alliance board member Tom Cummings also fell victim to gambling in Casey when he relapsed in 2014.

Mr Cummings said venues in the area would offer cheap bistro meals with gambling as the “after dinner entertainment”.

Mr Cummings said the gambling problem in Casey was largely to do with financial pressures on young families living in new developments.

“Financial pressure can take its toll ... the machines themselves are inherently unsafe and prey upon the most vulnerable members of our society,” he said.

If the City of Casey were to join as a leadership council, Mr Cummings said the alliance would provide resources and guidance when dealing with applications for poker machines and provide strong community support for those suffering from the harms.

As a member of the leadership council, City of Frankston councillor Glenn Aitken said the alliance had provided them with detailed research to help the fight against poker machines in Frankston.

He encouraged every council in Victoria to join the alliance, not only the City of Casey.

“It needs to be a really big voice and a widespread voice on the issue of gambling to deal with it.”

The City of Casey and several gaming venues in the area were contacted for comment but declined to respond.

Widow sues State over husband’s death Trading barbs

By Brendan Rees

By Brendan Rees Bridget O’Toole has no way of describing the pain she feels.

It has been a torturous seven years for the 70-year-old of Clyde North since her late husband was murdered at the hands of a dangerous parolee who was high on ice when he entered the couple’s Hastings jewellery shop, brandishing a 20cm knife.

She is now suing the state of Victoria for pain and suffering over her husband’s death, saying the chain of events that led to the tragic day should never have happened and believes her husband would be alive today.

“Not in a million years did I think something like this would have happened. It just rocks your world,” she said, her voice cracking during a phone interview.

On Friday 12 July, 2013, Gavin Perry, then 26, entered the couple’s shop at 5pm and repeatedly stabbed Ms Toole’s husband Dermot. The couple desperately tried to fight over the drug-addled man and as Ms O’Toole attempted to pull him away from her husband but was assaulted in the process.

The assailant then ran out of the shop, however, Mr O’Toole, 64, was fatally wounded and tragically died at the scene. Ms O’Toole was taken to hospital where she had to undergo plastic surgery for the extensive serious stab and slash wounds and the glass shards that were embedded in her back.?

For her actions she received the 2018 Gold Clarke medal, The Royal Humane Society of Australasia’s highest award for the most outstanding case of bravery.

In a statement of claim with the County Court, Ms O’Toole lawyers allege Corrections Victoria were negligent in their duty of care while Perry was on parole and did not “properly assess his dynamic risk of reoffending”.

The claim stated just days before the murder Perry allegedly missed a supervision appointment and committed two armed burglaries at shops in Cranbourne, including one where he was in possession of a large knife. While on parole, he also missed a second supervision appointment in June “without providing evidence for the reason”, the claim stated.

Ms O’Toole told Star News had corrections staff followed their own guidelines her husband of 41 years would not have been murdered.

“I really believe Dermot would be alive and I wouldn’t have been attacked,” she said.

“It’s almost like you’re high on ice it’s an excuse for your behaviour, well no it’s not.”

Her lawyers allege case workers “ought to have known” Perry would have relapsed into drug use, and had not inspected his accommodation or tested Perry for drugs while he was on parole.

Shine Lawyers senior associate Cameron berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

Bridget O’Toole with her 2018 Gold Clarke bravery medal.

Tout said Ms Toole’s claim was “more than compensation” but providing justice and holding “people accountable”.

“To lose Dermot in such a horrific way

and thinking that it could’ve been prevented is a tragedy,” he said.

In 2014, Perry was sentenced to 27 years in jail.

Gembrook state Liberal MP Brad Battin MP has accused the State Government of putting “politics first” before representing sole traders in the south-east during a state parliamentary inquiry.

Mr Battin took aim at Narre Warren South Labor state MP Gary Maas saying he had a “golden opportunity” to call on his own his Labor colleagues to support the thousands of sole traders in Casey and Cardinia but failed to provide any support after speaking at a parliament public accounts and estimates committee (PAEC) on Wednesday 12 August.

The committee is a joint investigatory committee of the Parliament of Victoria which has began a public inquiry into the State Government’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Mr Battin said Mr Maas had nearly 10 minutes of allocated time to ask on behalf of local sole traders who are losing their businesses daily - ‘What support can the Government offer these hardworking locals?’

Mr Battin added the government’s “negligence” of sole traders was highlighted further when Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards questioned the Minister for Jobs on support for business, but “forget about sole traders”.

“Gary Maas, now more than ever, must commit to standing for the community he was elected to represent, because his questions today were written by the Minister, for the Minister, proving this man stands for nothing but politics,” Mr Battin said.

“Thousands of sole traders and their families in Casey have invested years into their business only for the Government to fail to provide any support for them when they need it the most.

“It is disappointing with three Labor MP’s, including a Cabinet Minister, representing Casey are not calling on their Government to support desperate sole traders and instead, put their politics first.”

Mr Maas told Star News he would not accept “cheap shots from the side-lines” and proudly sat on the PAEC, which was set up by the Premier.

“Everything politicians do have repercussions and ultimately it is our electorates that will hold us to account on election day,” Mr Maas said. “The Member for Gembrook surely understands this.”

Mr Maas maintained he had been speaking to small business owners and sole traders, as well as families of loved ones who had tragically died as a result of the crisis.

“I have also spoken to a healthcare worker in isolation with Covid-19. My office and I continue to ring our constituents to see how they are coping. Our whole community is affected in different ways by this greatest challenge of our generation,” he said.

Mr Maas said the government had announced more than $10 billion in initiatives, including support for businesses, workers and families, to help them through the pandemic as well as a $26 million program that will address the mental health needs of sole traders, small and medium business owners and their workers.”

Thursday, 20 August, 2020

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STAR NEWS 5

NEWS

OPINION

Deadly risks

Heartbreak for home builders

Victoria Police is urging road users to be safe and responsible after a disappointing and deadly few weeks. Despite there being far less vehicles on Victorian roads due to the current coronavirus pandemic, 23 lives have been lost since the start of July.

Road Policing Command Assistant Commissioner Libby Murphy said there were dangerous trends emerging.

“Since there has been less cars on the road, we are seeing people treat the highways like a speedway,” she said. “We are seeing an increase in the number of serious collisions involving motorcycles, both off road and on road.”

The warning comes after a 27-year-old Shepparton man was killed in the early hours of 13 August after the car he was driving veered off the road and crashed into a tree.

Restrictions on building sites in Victoria that limit trades people to just three sites a week could leave thousands of average Victorians and their families out in the cold during the remaining weeks of winter, and longer.

The residential building industry has worked tirelessly to meet government Covid requirements, to prevent its spread and protect the health and safety of workers, clients and Victorians.

The industry is committed to achieving these goals and to do the best for home buyers.

But with over 60,000 homes under construction across Victoria, including up to 6000 new homes with their imminent completion now on hold, the stage 4 restrictions risk placing an additional financial and emotional burden on tens of thousands of Victorian families.

We look forward to working with the Victorian Government to navigate through the stage 4 restrictions and to reduce the additional significant hardship confronting tens of thousands of Victorian familes.

Fiona Nield, Executive Director of Housing Industry Association

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On 13 August the Cranbourne Star News shared a story about a Cranbourne East woman expressing her shock after being fined for parking on her nature strip as she and her family worked from home.

Here are how our readers reacted online: Annie Lamb: Blame developers for making such narrow streets with nowhere to park. They cram as many houses in as they can, leaving no room for street parking.

Tarnz Sanabuu: I managed to catch a Casey council (worker) who had been measuring my vehicle to the white line on the road. Apparently you cannot park your vehicle on the road near the white line.

Violeta Atanasovska: Damage to the grass on the nature strip? Since when is council responsible for that? Do they come and maintain it, cut grass, plant grass, collect the rubbish or leaves from trees or fixing fences that border a nature strip?

Janine Kimberley: The problem is they make the streets too narrow these days because they are greedy and want to get extra blocks out of estates for the rates.

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To those owners of cats in Hampton Park that are left out all night to stray spray poop in neighbours gardens these people ignoring the law they must be kept in dusk to dawn.

Thumbs up To everyone doing the right thing in restrictions, big thumbs down to idiot’s not.

Thumbs up To all those good people doing the right thing!

Thumbs up Backpacks 4 Vic kids virtual grand opening. I’m excited for this!

Thumbs up To Cranbourne Star News for actually following up on the concerns of their local residents.

Thumbs down To people out in the community after curfew checking cars to see if they’re unlocked in an attempt to steal belongings that don’t belong to them!

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 Star News reserves the right to edit submissions. To submit a Thumbs Up Thumbs Down email to dailyeditor@starnewsgroup.com.au fax to 5945 0777 or post to P.O. Box 9 Pakenham 3810.

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On 13 August the Cranbourne Star News shared a story about an out-of-work gardener confused by the coronavirus restrictions after watching council workers carry out maintenance work at Banjo Paterson Park in Lynbrook. Here are how our readers reacted online: Vixx Gribble: Honestly can’t see why franchises like Jims can’t keep on, it’s not hard to be contactless in that scenario.

Leigh Hocking: Most are only mowing the edges along the footpaths. So given we are allowed to exercise it’s important the footpaths remain maintained.

Jiji Giaccotto: We have a school and three shopping centres. And they all can’t be mowed until the six weeks so doesn’t make sense.

Andrea Earle: The lockdown of some services was a complete contradiction.

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Thursday, 20 August, 2020

Victorians have been scammed out of more than $10 million already this year as identity theft rises during the coronavirus lockdown.

New Scamwatch data, released by the State Government, showed more people were being conned this year - with a loss of almost $2m in the past eight months compared to all of last year.

Speaking at the start of Scams Awareness Week (17-21 August), Minister for Consumer Affairs Melissa Horne said said being mindful of who people give their details to has never been more important, given the huge number of people stay-at-home due to coronavirus restrictions.

“Our growing use of technology gives scammers more opportunities to trick you into giving away your personal or financial information - people need to be careful and report any suspected scams to police,” Ms Horne said. “It’s appalling that anyone would use this situation to take advantage of someone, but we all need to do our part to protect our safety online.”

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) deputy chair Delia Rickard said scammers were increasingly taking advantage of the financial difficulties and uncertainty generated from the Covid-19 pandemic.

“We are seeing two main types of scams

impersonating government departments; fake government threats and phishing scams,” she said. “Both of these scams can be quite convincing and can lead to significant financial losses or even identity theft.”

Phishing scams are attempts by scammers to trick people into giving out personal information such as their bank account numbers, passwords and credit card numbers.

Victorians can help protect themselves against scams by not giving out their personal information to unexpected messages and emails nor open attachments or click on links in unexpected social media message or popup windows. berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Trader’s fury

By Brendan Rees A trader is up in arms after a retail giant decided to alter three parking bays to ‘pick-up’ at the front of a Berwick shopping centre without notice.

Andrew Savige, owner of Baker’s Delight at Berwick Marketplace, said he was dumbfounded to find the parking spaces had been painted over as dedicated ‘pick-up’ bays when he arrived at work on Tuesday morning, 11 August - which Woolworths has confirmed is a temporary social distancing measure for customers.

Mr Savige said he supported click-and-collect parking but was frustrated that a decision had been made without any notice or consideration for the elderly.

“I’d be happy if they all went to disabled (parking); that’s no dramas, but putting it for click-and-collect so no one can park there that’s just ridiculous,” he said. “Woolworths never told any of us. They’ve just gone and done it.

“We’re all struggling, we’re all in this boat together. You don’t just jump on the bandwagon and just start writing your name on everything.

He added: “You can’t chop a tree down and you can’t put a bloody shed up without the council all over you.”

Casey Council manager of city and asset planning Keri New said council had not been “made aware of, or consulted” with by Woolworths management on changes made to the parking spaces.

“Council officers have investigated and confirmed that three 15-minute parking bays that have been altered to two click-and-collect spaces do not impact access to the adjoining accessible parking spaces,” Ms New said.

“These works were undertaken by the Woolworths management. It is noted that as part of State Government’s announcement of stage four restrictions, there were recommen-

Andrew Savige, owner of Bakers Delight Berwick at Berwick Marketplace is not happy about the Woolworths “click and collect’’ parking spaces.

Picture: GARY SISSONS dations for retailers to offer click-and-collect as part of their Covid-19 Safe Plans.

“We understand that many businesses across the community are working hard to continue to serve our community throughout this challenging time.

“Council will work in conjunction with Bakers Delight management and impacted business owners, and will consider changes to other public parking spaces along the shop front to suit their and the community’s needs.”

A Woolworths spokesperson said the installation of the two drive-through pick-up bays at Woolworths Berwick Marketplace was a temporary measure to help make social distancing easier for customers picking up their online orders.

“The contactless drive-through pick-up service is a great option for those customers with mobility challenges and anyone looking to limit their outings due to Covid-19,” the spokesperson said.

In a statement, Woolworths said “due to a miscommunication, council was not informed prior to the installation of the drive-through pick up bays, however, this has since been resolved and council has confirmed they are supportive of the social distancing measure”.

Car slams into garage

By Brendan Rees A teenager has been arrested after a car ploughed into a garage in Hampton Park on Wednesday 12 August.

Emergency services were called to a vacant house on Kerrison Drive about 3.10pm, to reports of a car that drove through a garage wall.

A Victoria Police spokesperson confirmed the incident related to a burglary after an Audi sedan slammed into a roller door.

“Police arrested a man in his late teens inside the house who, is currently assisting police with their enquiries,” the spokesperson said.

Investigators were on scene as they tried to piece together the chain of events.

Photos showed an Audi sedan in the

Emergency services at the scene. 213149

garage as Narre Warren State Emergency Service volunteers worked to cut the front and rear roller doors of the garage, which appeared to have been both rammed in the incident, exposing extensive brick work damage.

Firefighters from Hampton Park CFA also attended following reports of a strong gas smell just after 3.40pm, which was brought under control within 15 minutes, a CFA spokesperson said.

Emergency crews remained on scene until just after 4.30pm.

It’s understood no one was injured in the incident with Ambulance Victoria saying their attendance was not required.

Anyone who witnessed the incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Picture: GARY SISSONS

Anthony Byrne MP Federal Member for Holt

Authorised by Anthony Byrne MP, ALP Shop 7. 1060 hompsons Rd, Cranbourne West VIC 3977

HERE TO HELP Anthony is available to help you and your family with any problems you may be experiencing during the COVID-19 pandemic or with Federal Government agencies and departments (such as Medicare, Centrelink, Citizenship, ATO, Higher Education, NBN, NDIS or Aged Care).

You can contact Anthony anytime by calling 8790 0556 or emailing anthony@ anthonybyrnemp.com 12454848-SG29-20

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

Thursday, 20 August, 2020

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STAR NEWS 7

NEWS

Funds to prevent violence

By Brendan Rees The State Government will pour $20 million into family violence support services amid tough lockdown measures.

Funding will enable 1500 perpetrators of family violence, or people who believe they are at risk of using violence, to leave their homes and move into short or long-term accommodation options.

It will also provide intervention and behaviour change programs for those who are using violence in the home - including a dedicated support for adolescents using violence and their families.

Minister for Prevention of Family Violence

Gabrielle Williams said there was an increased risk of family violence during the pandemic and “want to ensure every single Victorian can access the services and support they need”.

“I also want to be clear: even with Stay at Home restrictions in place, if you need to leave a violent situation, you can - and you will not be fined,” she said.

There were 4863 family violence incidents recorded in Casey City in the year to March up 4.6 per cent compared to the previous year.

The data showed there were 1291 affected family members aged 25 to 34 years - the highest number of cases for any age group.

In the past month, the Men’s Referral Service has reported an 11 per cent increase in calls compared to last year.

There’ll also be increased funding for family violence service providers so they can continue to adapt their services under stay-at-home restrictions.

Anyone concerned about their own behaviour can contact the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491.

The State Government has announced an extra $20 million into family violence services.

Grants flow Casey Council has launched a $510,000 support package to provide a range of resources, tailored support and grants to local businesses directly impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Adopted at council’s 18 August meeting, the Backing Business in Casey package aims to support local businesses by boosting their long-term recovery efforts, increasing business capabilities and creating a stronger and more resilient local economy.

Informed by insights collected from council’s Covid-19 Business Impacts Survey conducted in April and May, the package is designed to complement the Victorian and Federal Government business stimulus packages, address limitations in other programs and provide support to Casey businesses who have otherwise been excluded.

The Business Grant Program is just one initiative of the package that allows eligible businesses in Casey to apply for a share of a $200,000 grant pool. Businesses may apply in one of five steams with grants ranging from $2000 to $5000.

The grants have been designed to support local businesses directly impacted by Covid-19 by providing catalyst funding for projects and activities that will boost long term business and economic recovery.

Successful applicants will also be matched with a business development mentor for up to three free mentoring sessions valued at $450.

The sessions will help ensure recipients can leverage their funding to deliver projects and activities to their greatest potential and are best placed for long term and sustainable recovery.

Casey Council chair of administrators Noelene Duff was proud to see council launch another program that caters to local businesses’ diverse needs.

“Over the past few months, we have seen incredible resilience, agility and innovation across Casey’s business community, however, it remains a challenging time for many and Council is committed to providing support that meets our local businesses’ varying needs” Ms Duff said.

“This package is a welcomed addition to complement the support council is already providing Casey businesses since the beginning of this pandemic.”

Businesses can call the Casey Business Helpline on 9705 5200 to receive tailored advice and support from a council economic development officer.

OFFICIAL MEDICAL ADVICE

Don’t risk it.

Always follow the health advice.

It’s up to all of us to keep each other safe.

You must continue to practise good hygiene, physical distancing, and if you’re even slightly unwell, get tested and stay at home. Don’t risk it.

Have the App Visit australia.gov.au

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Thursday, 20 August, 2020

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The sooner we all do it, the sooner we’ll get through it.

Customers get a last minute haircut at New York Barbers in Berwick before it was forced to close its doors due to the stage four coronavirus restrictions. 21265 Picture: GARY SISSONS berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

A fur-midable friendship

By Mitchell Clarke A Junction Village family has successfully welcomed home a new seizure alert dog - and a new best mate - for 14-year-old Cody Wallace.

The quest to secure Lulu the support dog from Queensland has been anything but simple for Cody’s parents Scott and Tracy Wallace.

Cody, was diagnosed with a rare brain tumour and excess fluid on the brain over a decade ago. He has since undergone multiple brain surgeries but still lives with constant seizures.

Two years ago, Cody had his first nocturnal seizure, which prompted his parents to install monitors and cameras in his room, which would alert them of any movement.

“All the things we have in place, a power cut would render them useless,” Mr Wallace explained.

In search of a more permanent solution, the family began raising money for a seizure alert dog two years ago, and were lucky to enough to reach their target, thanks to an outpouring wave of support from the community.

Seizure alert dogs like Lulu don’t come cheap, costing $30,000 for initial training and more than $5000 a year to maintain training, diet and overall health.

But in this instance the results outweigh the costs, and after an exhausting and stressful process hindered by the coronavirus pandemic, Lulu has finally stepped foot in her forever home.

Mr Wallace was granted an exemption to travel to Queensland with his wife and Cody in mid-July, to undertake extensive training with Lulu as part of the SmartPup program.

Covid-19 restrictions cancelled Cody’s first support dog in March, and the family feared that an even stricter Stage 4 lockdown could push Lulu out of the picture as well.

“We had to break the news that his first dog was out of the equation and when it looked like his second dog was going to be gone, it would have just devastated him,” Mr Wallace explained.

“We were really privileged to be allowed to travel up. My wife worked hard, back and forth with the Queensland Government and we were one of the lucky ones that got to quarantine in the accommodation of our choice.”

The trio spent the mandatory two weeks quarantine in an Air BnB - where Mr Wallace, a Beaconhills College teacher, was able to continue teaching via Zoom - before undertaking five days of intense training with Lulu.

From basic handling commands to public access training in shopping centres and food courts, Lulu was given the green light to relocate to Victoria.

“It was full on. They try to make the training

Lulu was welcomed home for her new life in Victoria. as tough as can be, so when you can handle the tough stuff, the everyday stuff becomes easier,” he explained.

“They’re initially trained to a certain standard and then SmartPups begin to look at the specifics. We had to keep sending up clothes with Cody’s scent on them, which allowed them to pick the dog that responded most positively.

“When Lulu first met Cody, she greeted him with a lot of kisses, which was a bit overwhelming, but she probably recognised him because she had been working with his scent.”

Now becoming familiar with her forever home, the family is in the process of transitioning Lulu from her crate to Cody’s bed.

“My wife and I haven’t properly slept since that night when he had his first seizure,” Mr Wallace said.

“Knowing that Cody has a companion who can detect the slightest change in his health will definitely have a positive impact on our entire family moving forward.”

In the meantime, the bond between Lulu and Cody is continuing to grow stronger every day.

“Kids with special needs often don’t show emotions, but he’s really warming to her,” he added.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Lulu was raised in Queensland with SmartPups.

A seizure alert dog costs $30,000 for its initial training and more than $5000 a year to maintain its training, diet and overall health.

Best buds! Cody and Lulu have formed a furmidable friendship.

Lulu has already had a huge impact on Cody’s life.

Forum unites community in tackling mental health

By Brendan Rees More than 70 Casey residents have gathered for a virtual forum to discuss ways of supporting people’s mental health and wellbeing during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Federal Labor MP for Holt Anthony Byrne led the Zoom forum on Thursday evening, 13 August which included leading mental health professionals in Australia.

Mr Byrne said the question and answer style forum provided genuine conversations about current mental health challenges facing Victorians with some participants raising ideas for improvements in mental health practices.

Special guests included Patrick McGorry, a Professor of Youth Mental Health at the University of Melbourne; Dean McCaughan, Headspace Narre Warren manager; Jemma Schmutter, co-chair of the youth action committee at headspace Narre Warren; and youth advocate Jake Downward.

“I wish to thank everyone for being involved in the mental health and well-being forum, and special thanks to Professor Patrick McGorry for his excellent mental health briefing during a challenging period of time for everyone with the Covid-19 pandemic,” berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

Mr Byrne said.

Mr Byrne told the forum that Australia had seen a surge in demand for mental health services due to the Covid-19 pandemic - with “extraordinary and unprecedented constraints” placed on public mental healthcare services and practitioners who “continued to provide the best care they can”.

“We know that young people are disproportionately affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, and the stage four lockdown measures that are needed to stop the spread of this deadly disease,” Mr Byrne said.

“Many health professionals - including GPs, psychiatrists, and emergency physicians - are seeing significant growth in the number of patients seeking treatment and support for their mental health like at headspace Narre Warren.

“Data shows there has been a 33 per cent rise in children and young people in Victoria presenting to hospital with self-harm injuries over the past six weeks, compared to a year earlier.”

Professor and psychiatrist Jayashri Kulkarni, who is the director of the Monash Alfred Psychiatry research centre, said mental health symptoms could be exacerbated by

fears of a “never-ending lockdown” - leading to an increased sense of panic.

“If you’re worried that you or someone you know is having mental health difficulties, it’s important to seek help from your GP or another mental health professional,” Prof Kulkarni said.

“Everyone is going to experience ups and downs during isolation - feelings of hopelessness, frustration, anger, sadness and anxiety will be commonplace,” she said. “It’s important that everyone builds an element of routine into their lives to combat mental deconditioning, and ensure that they are continuing to function normally. This will also help them transition back to ‘normality’ when lockdown is lifted.”

In August, the Australian Government announced it was providing an additional $12 million to ensure people in Victoria can access 24-7 mental health support through digital and telephone counselling services during the difficult time.

This is in addition to 10 additional Medicare subsidised psychological therapy sessions for people subjected to further restrictions in areas impacted by the second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Federal Labor MP for Holt Anthony Byrne.

Thursday, 20 August, 2020

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NEWS

A Lynbrook man’s amazing sketch of Banjo Paterson Park.

Chris Rodrigues with his daughter Emma at Banjo Paterson Reserve Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS Lynbrook 213060

Dad unlocks artistic skills A creative director by day, Mr Rodrigues used Adobe Frescoon his iPad to create his stunning piece, a program that is equipped with tools that behave like the real thing including pencils, brushes, markers, inks and other media.

“It’s incredible, but takes some getting used to. The result is quite close to the real thing.”

It is only his second drawing using the program. The first was last year when he sketched his now 14-month-old daughter a month after

By Brendan Rees For Chris Rodrigues, sketching a popular park in Lynbrook has offered a soothing outlet while in lockdown.

The self-taught artist and father-of-one spent just a couple of nights using digital pencils for a change, to create his eye-catching piece depicting Banjo Paterson Park.

“It was the most therapeutic thing I’ve done in a long time,” Mr Rodrigues said.

she was born - which turned out to be an “absolute smasher on the second attempt”.

With no artistic formal training, Mr Rodrigues said his latest creation proved rewarding.

“It’s come up really well, it’s surprised me to be honest.

“It was interesting to get into a lot of treescape and different bush. I thought I would just inspire myself to take out the brushes and start painting again.”

Mr Rodrigues, a Lynbrook resident, said he had taken a photo of the Banjo Paterson Park on his phone to create his detailed and intricate piece - an exercise he said that “just takes me somewhere else”.

But the one thing he said that “really struck” was the support he received from the community after posting his artwork to Facebook.

“They’re so supportive and appreciative of things. This is such a lovely community.”

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Thursday, 20 August, 2020

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STAR NEWS 11

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Sport boost

By Brendan Rees Clyde Recreation Reserve is set for a massive transformation, thanks to a $3m funding boost from the State Government.

The new additions will include construction of a district-level reserve with three Australian rules football/cricket ovals; two netball courts; eight tennis courts (six relocated courts and two new courts); two multi-use community pavilions; and a car park with 300 sealed car spaces.

Works are expected to start in early 2021 to be delivered over two years.

Member for Bass Jordan Crugnale on Friday 14 August announced the project saying the facility was about helping grassroots sports communities, creating jobs and kickstarting vital projects across the state.

“These sport and rec facilities will be such a drawcard and focal point for our sporting clubs in and around Clyde,” she said.

“This project really illustrates that when State and Local Government come together in partnership - the community we are here to serve are the ones who benefit.

“I want to thank the City of Casey for recognising the need for these facilities for our growing community, for prioritising the project and most importantly for the very significant contribution.”

Council will be contributing $10m towards the project while $8m is coming from developer contributions to implement the $21m Clyde Creek Precinct Structure Plan.

Once complete the project will deliver an AFL/Cricket/Rugby Union pavilion featuring:

· a multipurpose community room; change-rooms with associated unisex · eight amenities; · two unisex referee’s rooms; · first aid room; female, male, unisex and accessible · public toilets; office, scorer’s room and · kitchen/canteen, storage.

For any queries contact 0410 422 541

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covered viewing area.

Casey Council chair of administrators Noelene Duff said it “much welcomed news”, and a “vital project” for creating jobs and providing a much-needed boost to the local economy.

“The funding will kick-start the transformation of Clyde Recreation Reserve, which when completed, will connect thousands of local families and young people with community sports and recreation opportunities,” Ms Duff said.

“Clyde’s population has tripled in the past three years. It is now home to 30,000 residents, with more families flocking to this developing suburb each year.

“The suburb has outgrown its existing oval and tennis courts and this important upgrade will help local sports and community clubs grow and expand.”

Casey Council CEO Glenn Patterson thanked the State Government for supporting council’s funding application, which was set to provide “enormous benefits for the community”.

“The new and improved Clyde Recreation Reserve will be ideally located alongside the new Clyde North Station Primary School (interim name) and adjoin the new Family and Children’s Services Centre including kindergarten and maternal and child health,” Mr Patterson said.

Funding was made possible through the State Government’s Community Sports Infrastructure Stimulus Program.

Multicultural support cash

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The tennis pavilion will also have many useful features including a community room; change rooms with associated unisex amenities; public female, male, unisex and accessible toilets; drinks servery and kitchen/servery; storage, office and an external

A plan of the Clyde Recreation Reserve.

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The leader of the Ethnic Communities Council of Victoria (ECCV) has welcomed funding to assist multicultural communities directly impacted by the Covid-19 State of Disaster.

Eddie Micallef, chairman of the ECCV, said the $14.3 million funding boost was a step in the right direction to better resource multicultural communities and organisations to respond “safely and sustainably” during the crisis.

“This funding acknowledges the frontline role that many multicultural organisations are playing in supporting migrant and refugee communities to stay connected, supported and safe during this pandemic,” he said.

The funding includes $6.9 million for expanded health messaging and support for multicultural organisations that work on the ground to deliver emergency relief, such as culturally specific accommodation and food for those self- isolating or in quarantine.

It will also ensure positive cases and their close contacts are cared for and taken through compliance checks in a culturally appropriate way, while also providing cultural advice to support the work of the coronavirus contact tracing team.

A Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Taskforce (CALD) Communities Taskforce will also be established to help multicultural and multi-faith communities through the pandemic, with representatives from the Victorian Multicultural Commission

and various departments.

The funding package also includes $5.5 million to continue and expand the distribution of vital health advice that has been translated into 55 different languages, ensuring people understand and comply with restrictions designed to keep people safe, with a focus on supporting younger CALD members.

Support for multicultural communities has been rolling out since the beginning of the pandemic, with advertising campaigns on TV, social media, digital platforms, newspapers and radio, as well as a series of community roundtables.

The latest in-language videos released earlier this week feature frontline health workers speaking about their experiences in Oromo, Vietnamese, Turkish and Korean.

In April, when the first wave of the pandemic hit Victoria, Mr Micallef said ECCV along with its members first called for the establishment of a CALD to act as a “key part of a proactive and strategic response” to the impacts of Covid-19 on communities.

“We are pleased that the Victorian Government has listened to the feedback about the value of harnessing the capacity and connectedness of the multicultural sector in a more coordinated way.”

Mr Micallef said ECCV supported the further investment in translated materials, adding “formal translated communications are not sufficient on their own” and creative forms of messaging that “resonate with people’s culture delivered by sources that they trust and engage with can have a greater impact”.

12457581-SN33-20

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Thursday, 20 August, 2020

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Thursday, 20 August, 2020

|

STAR NEWS 13

FOCUS ON … MEDICALLY SPEAKING

Good sight a key priority The friendly team at Beaconsfield Eyecare is still there for you, even during Stage 4 restrictions.

They are a locally owned, community minded small business, and they are doing everything within their means to help stop the spread of this virus. Optometrist Gemma Cowan reminds us “While we have temporarily postponed all routine eye tests for the safety of the community as a whole, we will always be available for urgent eye care, and you can be assured that we use the strictest hygiene measures at all times.”

If you have an eye condition that you believe cannot wait until Stage 4 restrictions are over, Gemma advises ringing the clinic to discuss it with her. “There are some eye conditions that simply cannot wait,” she says. “For example, sudden changes to vision or loss of vision, recent onset flashes of light or floaters, sudden onset red or painful eyes, trauma to

the eye or ocular foreign body.”

It may also be that you have broken your glasses and cannot function without them, or believe your vision has changed sufficiently to affect your driving ability.

It is also a timely reminder to have an eye test after current restrictions are lifted, particularly if you have a chronic eye condition such as glaucoma, age related macular degeneration or even diabetes.

“If you have a chronic eye condition that requires regular review, and you are unsure whether your appointment can be safely postponed, please ring us and we can discuss it over the phone to recommend the right course of action for you,” advises Gemma.

If you believe you require urgent eye care, or if you would simply like to speak to an optometrist during this time, please call 8726 9977, or visit www.beaconsfieldeyecare.com.au

The Blooms The Chemist Casey Central team is ready to serve the community.

Making a difference

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Free Local Delivery Service available 7 days a week

*

to retailers with over 20 years’ experience.

“The entire Blooms The Chemist network is like a family and at Blooms The Chemist Casey Central we are so proud to be making a difference for our customers and community,” Charlene says.

“We genuinely care about each other and during these challenging times we have consistently worked together to support one another and our communities. We like to have fun with each other and customers at work (you can watch our team Tik Tok challenges on Facebook!) and live by our values of passion, commitment, honesty, trust, integrity and respect.

“Our mission is to deliver better healthcare to all Australians and we do this through our exceptional service and a wide range of products at the best possible price.

“We really pride ourselves on being a truly multicultural team, and between us speak over seven languages, including English, Hindi, Pashto, Dari (Farsi), Shona, Polish, Czech, and Tagalog. We love that we can really connect with all of our customers and make it even easier for them to get what they need,” Charlene adds.

Blooms The Chemist Casey Central can be found at Shop 132-134, Casey Central Shopping Centre, Narre Warren South. Call 9704 8166. The chemist is open MondayWednesday 8.30am-7pm, Thursday-Friday 8.30-7.45, Saturday 8.30-6pm and Sunday 9-6pm. Find them on Facebook to check out their Tik Tok challenges!

Always there to support you through the COVID-19 pandemic

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Blooms The Chemist Casey Central Shop 132-134 Casey Central Shopping Centre, 400 Narre Warren Cranbourne Road Narre Warren South VIC 3805 P 9704 8166 E casey@blooms.net.au

bloomsthechemist.com.au

Address: 45 Wallace St, Beaconsfield VIC 3807

CASEY CENTRAL

Phone: 8726 9977 www.https://www.beaconsfieldeyecare.com.au/

14 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 20 August, 2020

12446664-DV16-20

12458505-DL34-20

The team at Beaconsfield Eye Care is continuing to look after you, even during Covid-19 restrictions

Blooms The Chemist Casey Central is a locally owned and operated community pharmacy with community at its heart.

Blooms offers traditional pharmacy services including dispensing, scripts on file, and medication packing, as well as health services including sleep apnoea testing, iron screening, blood glucose monitoring, stroke risk assessment and blood pressure evaluation.

Customers can order their scripts and refills through the Blooms app, meaning they can click and collect or select the delivery option.

While a weekly delivery service has always been offered, this has been increased to seven days a week during the pandemic.

Three members of the team now deliver every afternoon - that’s approximately 300 kilometres a week in deliveries!

To ensure they can continue to serve the community, during Covid-19 the chemist has implemented a split roster so that they could continue operating in the event of a confirmed case amongst the team members.

Charlene Cerros, retail manager, says what sets her team apart is their culture and customer service.

The Blooms The Chemist Casey Central team is a diverse bunch, with qualified pharmacists with over 20 years of experience between them, dispense techs, a naturopath, and retail team members with varied careers, ranging from joining Blooms The Chemist Casey Central as their first job

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

FOCUS ON … MEDICALLY SPEAKING

Healthcare with heart Residents of Casey and Cardinia will be familiar with St John of God Berwick Hospital, with its lengthy 110 year history and distinctive blue facade.

What many don’t know is that St John of God Healthcare (SJGHC) is a not-for-profit organisation that operates 24 facilities comprising more than 3,400 hospital beds in Australia and New Zealand, as well as home nursing, disability services and social outreach programs.

Closer to home, SJGHC offers a full suite of healthcare solutions right on the doorstep of Melbourne’s south eastern corridor.

With three hospitals located in the region, patients are able to access all of their health needs without travelling long distances into the Melbourne CBD.St John of God Berwick Hospital is an acute hospital offering surgery, maternity, day procedures, intensive care, cardiac care, medical services, consulting, day oncology and infusion, inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation and robotics.

Berwick is also home to St John of God Raphael Services- a no out-of-pocket expense, personalised counselling and group support for mums, dads and families suffering from perinatal mental health issues.

Just down the road in Dandenong, St John of God Pinelodge Clinic is a mental health and addiction hospital.

Here, patients can access compassionate inpatient and outpatient care along with rTMS, ECT, day therapy and consulting.Nearby, St John of God Frankston Rehabilitation

Improving mental outlook

Hospital are experts in specialised Parkinson’s rehabilitation offering LSVT BIG and LOUD as well as more general rehabilitation including hydrotherapy, inpatient and outpatient care, speech pathology and treatment for movement disorders.While each of these facilities offer different clinical services, patients and visitors will be impressed by the consistency of care closer to home which is based on a strong mission and supported by meaningful organisational values.

This foundation sees all three hospitals providing exceptional care with a compassionate touch, allowing St John of Health Care to function at the very heart of healthcare in Melbourne’s south east.For more information on St John of God Health Care visit www.sjog. org.au

Depression, leading from poor mental health can make you feel alone, lost and helpless.

Self-help steps coupled with therapy and medication can bring you get out of your plight.

Remember, if you have already implemented self-help steps in your life and are still suffering from depression, you need to seek professional help. Requiring additional assistance does not make you weak, rather it makes you brave for addressing a rather grave concern about your wellbeing.

Even if you are currently seeing a therapist, keeping these tips in mind will help to ensure a speedy recovery.

Prioritize yourself Value yourself enough to recognize when the mind needs special attention. An individual could be anxious, depressed or overly stressed without even realizing it, which is why it is crucial to check in with the mind from time to time, acknowledge its shortcomings and treat it with compassion. Although you are your best critic, it is not wise to be harsh on yourself at all times, because what and how you think about yourself can have a substantial effect on how you feel and behave.

Nurture your body A healthy mind shows through a healthy body. This includes maintaining a brainhealthy diet, regular exercise and sleep. Food that can foster rich mental health are fatty fish rich in Omega-3, nuts, flaxseed, beans, leafy green and fresh fruit. Foods such as caffeine, sugary snacks, refined carbs, fried food, or anything consisting of trans fats and chemical preservatives should be consumed in limited amounts. Exercise brings sound sleep, helps to keep the body and mind at

ease and also assists your body’s production of endorphins, also known as the feel-good hormone, which is known to elevate your mood. Moreover, a healthy amount of sleep sets the pace for the day, in addition to doing wonders on your mental sharpness and stress management.

Keep your enemies far, and your friends closest!

Constant connection with friends, family and colleagues is essential for good mental health. Build a healthy and flourishing support network and invest your time and effort into these relationships. Keeping a few close people would assure you that you are never alone in your struggles and that you can reach out to them during your depressive episodes. Seek their guidance and gain positivity, to learn and grow from their company.

Put your mind at ease Meditation and prayer can stabilize the mind and set things in perspective for you.

A special type of meditation, called ‘mindfulness exercise’, enables you to focus on a certain trail of thoughts. It assists by controlling the mind to stay fixated on the present instead of wandering off to the past or the future. It can be accomplished through deep breathing, taking walks by yourself or even by performing yoga.

Be productive!

Make sure you are not spending your days idling around the house. Challenge yourself and set goals for every day. Adopt good habits such as maintaining a journal to note down thoughts, to-do lists, accomplished tasks, etc. Challenge yourself to eliminate poor habits such as smoking and drinking.

Better Health Family Clinic is at 127-129 Somerville Road, Hampton Park. Call 9702 9300.

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Thursday, 20 August, 2020

|

STAR NEWS 15

FOCUS ON … TAX TIME

Accountants are experts

By Danielle Kutchel Business has been challenging in the last five months to say the least.

At the start of the last financial year, few, if any businesses would have factored a global pandemic into their budgets or business plans.

Many businesses have had severe restrictions placed on their trade which is entirely beyond their control.

Other businesses, conversely, have suddenly found themselves busier than ever, with their team members being stretched to their limit.

Michelle Beadle, principal at BJT Business Advisors.

Most businesses have been grateful for the support received by both the federal and state governments, either through stimulus

payments, wage support, grants, or payroll tax relief.

However, negotiating access to some of these government or banking incentives has been tricky at best.

A business’ best asset during these times has been a good working relationship with their business accountant.

Among the many things that BJT have done for clients during this period are cashflow budgets for business planning and banking purposes, business analyses, as well as applications for Victorian Government Business Relief grants, JobKeeper, Cash Flow

Stimulus Boost, and refunds of Victorian (and other state) Payroll Tax. BJT has had many clients express their gratitude and relief at BJT being able to help them navigate the complexities of the government programs.

As accountants, BJT’s job is to help business owners have enough information to make informed, intelligent choices in a period of such great uncertainty.

BJT Business Advisors are located in Berwick, and specialise in business and family groups. Visit www.bjtbusinessadvisors.com. au for more.

Tax tip advice for students If you are a student, lodging an income tax return may seem a bit daunting. Parents who may be helping can also find it challenging.

JobKeeper brought a boost to many casual workers by increasing their income to $750 per week and students should remember that this income is subject to tax.

CPA Australia’s tax policy adviser Elinor Kasapidis said that “while studying is probably your highest priority, many students take on part-time work, including small cash jobs, or might receive government payments or scholarships to assist during their studies.

You might be more entrepreneurial and have started selling products or investing in financial assets on the side. Many forms of income come with tax consequences so it’s best to get advice if you’re unsure.

“You might also find that you have had tax

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Top 10 tax tips for students If you have had tax withheld from your salary or interest and your taxable income is below the tax-free threshold, lodge a return to get those amounts refunded back to you Set up your myGov account to access government services and get your income statement and superannuation information from your employer Identify all your sources of income, such as income from work including tips, investment returns, certain government payments, non-government scholarships, grants and awards, as well as distributions from family trusts or partnerships Report income and claim expenses from gig economy jobs. This can include income from running social media accounts or selling goods and services online Know your deductions, including work related expenses or self-education expenses.

Remember self-education must be directly related to your work and that HELP debt repayments are not deductible Remember that income can include payments you receive in tips, cryptocurrency and through barter transactions Report any gains or losses from cryptocurrencies, especially because the ATO is datamatching information received fromdigital exchanges Get your residency for tax purposes right as the tax rules are different to those used for immigration Check that you are getting your superannuation entitlements if you earn more than $450 per month or, if you are under 18 and you work more than 30 hours per week Consider the special rules related to tax if you are under 18, for income such as trust distributions, interest, dividends, rent and royalties.

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16 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 20 August, 2020

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Thursday, 20 August, 2020

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STAR NEWS 17

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Thursday, 20 August, 2020

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Thursday, 20 August, 2020

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STAR NEWS 19

SPORT

The Wickers join Eastern

By Nick Creely The Berwick Football Club is officially Eastern Football Netball League (EFNL) bound.

The Wickers - who won senior football flags in 2015, 2017 and 2018, as well as finishing runner-up in 2019 in the AFL Outer East - will join the powerful Eastern league’s Premier Division in 2021 after being officially transferred to the competition in a move that’s been mooted for almost two years. The Wickers will become the competition’s 46th senior club.

It was back in early December last year at the EFNL annual general meeting that the clubs voted an overwhelming majority towards the Wickers moving into the competition, pending a transfer from the club’s latest competition, AFL Outer East and ratification

by AFL Victoria.

The club, which is one of the most powerful football clubs in the south east corridor, have long expressed a desire to join the formidable suburban competition as the club and the community continue to grow in numbers, and will field a seniors, reserves, under 19s and women’s side in 2021.

The addition of Berwick in 2021 will provide the league with an 11-team competition in Premier, joining local clubs Noble Park and Rowville, with a return to 10 teams in 2022.

In a statement issued on Monday afternoon, the league said that the Berwick Football Club will add so much to the powerful league, with clubs informed of Berwick’s arrival on Monday afternoon.

“Berwick’s home ground, Edwin Flack Reserve, is a high quality venue for sport in general and the club’s facilities are state of the art and will fit in perfectly with the rest of the league,” a league statement read.

“The league is very excited by the addition

Berwick will officially join Eastern in 2021. 185297 of the Berwick Football Club to the league and we wish them all the best in their inaugural season.”

Berwick president Glenn Gambetta said the club was absolutely delighted to be joining the Eastern Football League after a long process.

“The excitement at the club is unprecedented,” he said.

“In these most uncertain times, when no one knows what’s around the corner, the only

Picture: ROB CAREW thing that these guys have had to look to from a football perspective is the fact that we’re going to Eastern.

“It sets a challenge for us, and we’re really looking forward to it.”

Gambetta said the move was not just going to benefit the football club, but the entire region.

“We had a belief that a club in the area had to put their hand up - the good kids go-

ing through here and Gippsland, if they want to play they have to travel to a Noble Park or Rowville,” he said.

“So we’ve made this decision just as much for football in the area as for the Berwick Football Club.”

Gambetta thanked the Eastern Football Netball League for facilitating the move across from the Outer East.

“I’d really like to thank Troy Swainston (Eastern CEO) and the board, they’ve been fantastic in supporting us and assisting us,” he said.

“They’ve had the resolve to get us over the line, so all credit to them.”

AFL Outer East region general manager Aaron Bailey confirmed that the Berwick Netball Club will remain in the AFL Outer East, with just the senior football club transferring to the Eastern league, and wished the Wickers the best for the future.

“AFL Outer East can confirm that the Berwick Football Club has been successful in its application to join the Eastern Football Netball League for season 2021,” Bailey said.

“We are pleased to announce that the Berwick Netball Club will remain in the AFL Outer East in 2021, with all 10 sides competing in netball next year.

“AFL Outer East and the Berwick Netball Club have begun the process of developing a long term vision for the club that will ensure it has the structures in place that will see the club compete in a football/netball structure in the long term in the Outer East.

“Further announcements in regards to competition structures, salary caps and player points will be made shortly.

“AFL Outer East wishes Berwick Football Club the best for the future.”

A swag of racing awards for Busuttin and Young

By Nick Creely The Cranbourne Turf Club held the Cranbourne Racing Industry Awards recently through social media - celebrating the achievements from the 2019/20 racing season.

Cranbourne Turf Club CEO Neil Bainbridge said in a season which saw 6936 starters, 678 winners, and $60m in prizemoney earned, it was definitely one of great success.

“One of the highlights of the year for Cranbourne trainers was picking up $60m in prizemoney, so that’s a terrific outcome,” he said.

“We had a number of horses perform really well - Mirage Dancer of the Busuttin stable ran third in the Caulfield Cup, Soul Patch for Kenny Keys won a group race, Greg Eurell’s Star Missile won over the spring carnival, so there was certainly a lot of good outcomes.”

Bainbridge said the great thing about the racing awards was that it enabled them to recognise a whole range of different trainers, with Cranbourne seeing 86 individual trainers train a professional winner for the season, including six trainers - Smiley Chan, Douglas Arnold, Simone Walker, Catherine Hutchinson, Aaron Laing and Jack Laing - all training their first professional winner of their careers.

“What the Cranbourne Racing Industry Awards does is not just focus on our leading trainers - we provided awards for a whole range of trainers and recognise their performances,” he said.

“A lot of stables have smaller numbers, so we acknowledged those trainers that produced less than 50 starters, 100 starters and 200 starters.

“And annually, we take a bit of a breath, and like to acknowledge those who had their first ever win, and this year we had six of those, and one of those, Simone Walker, a long-time harness industry participant, she’s a trainer and driver in the harness racing industry, and she’s crossed over to train some thoroughbreds, and it was great that she could have her first winner.”

20 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 20 August, 2020

Tagaloa (foreground), trained by Trent Busuttin and Natalie Young, capped off a stellar racing season with a swag of awards.

Prominent trainers Trent Busuttin and Natalie Young enjoyed a stellar racing season, picking up a swag of awards, with Bainbridge of the belief that their stables can go even further this spring.

“Trent and Natalie moved across four years ago to Cranbourne from New Zealand - we started with offering them 40 boxes on course, and they’ve now got 115 boxes on course,” he said.

“They’ve become significant in the local racing industry, but they’re now firmly entrenched in the top five Victorian trainers, so its a great credit to them - they’re certainly putting together a terrific stable of stars, and Tagaloa not only had a great season last year, but he looks like he’s well placed this spring for races such as the Caulfield Guineas, and he’s also nominated for a Cox Plate, so he’s a

high-quality horse.

“But I think they’ve got a number of horses in their stable that’ll be fairly prominent over this spring - they, along with the powerful Robbie Griffiths stable, have produced around 460 starters in the Victorian racing industry this year, so its a pretty significant number with some great results.”

Bainbridge also wanted to acknowledge horses Rolling Moss (trained by Shawn Mathrick) and Larrikin (trained by Brian McGrath), who each won five races for the season, the most out of Cranbourne horses.

Here are all of the award winners: Cranbourne Trainer and Metro Trainer of the Year - Trent Busuttin and Natalie Young Cranbourne Jumper of the Year - Gobstobber, trained by Eric Musgrove

Picture: SUPPLIED

Cranbourne Rising Star Award - Tagaloa, trained by Trent Busuttin and Natalie Young Cranbourne Horse of the Year - Tagaloa, trained by Trent Busuttin and Natalie Young Cranbourne Apprentice Jockey Premiership Matthew Cartwright Cranbourne Jockey Premiership - Jye McNeil Cranbourne Trainers Premiership - Mick Price and Michael Kent (Jnr) Cranbourne Picnic Trainer of the Year - Alan Keenan Most winners less than 50 professional starters - Julien Welsh Most winners less than 100 professional starters - John Price Most winners less than 200 professional starters - Cindy Alderson berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

SPORT

One of Berwick’s finest has been officially recognised

Australian superstar Liz Cambage has returned to the WNBL.

Picture: SUPPLIED

A superstar returns home

By Nick Creely She’s back.

Australian basketball superstar Liz Cambage will make a return to the WNBL this season, signing with the Southside Flyers in a major coup for the competition and for basketball in the south-east.

One of the best women’s basketball players anywhere in the world, the three-time WNBA All-Star centre missed the current WNBA season with the Las Vegas Aces due to the Covid-19 pandemic, and will now return to Australia for the first time in three years. “I am really looking forward to playing for the Flyers in the WNBL this season. I know they had a great first year and I am keen to help the team go one better and win the Championship,� Cambage said when confirming her decision to join Southside Flyers. “It will be great playing with a number of Opals teammates, and of course our coach Cheryl Chambers - who is an assistant coach with the Opals. Flyers captain Jenna O’Hea is one of my favourites, she is also the Opals captain - she is like my captain on and off the court.�

Flyers coach Cheryl Chambers said the addition of Cambage to the line-up is very exciting. “Liz is a superstar of women’s basketball and we know what she will bring to the team on the court, which is really exciting for us,� she said. “She has a great attitude and will be great for the team, not only on the court, but also off the court and in the community. Her profile will be great for the Flyers and the WNBL.�

Cambage’s career kick-started at Dandenong, where she played her junior basketball.

She then started her professional career with the Rangers in the WNBL in 2007, playing six

seasons before spending time in China and the WNBA. Incredibly, she’s been an All-Star in every competition she’s been involved with since 2010.

Flyers owner Gerry Ryan is also thrilled that Cambage has decided to return home to where it all started, and that she will be part of the team this season. “It is exciting to welcome Liz home. I remember her playing for Dandenong in 2007 as a young up-and-coming star,� he said. “It will be great to see her in action for the Southside Flyers this season and I am sure it will be a real bonus for the WNBL.�

Under strict Covid-19 protocls, Cambage will join several of her teammates for some unofficial training at the Dandenong Stadium this week before official training commences in September.

She said that, while Covid-19 has interrupted her basketball journey overseas, the opportunity to come home and play in her home country, for her very first team, was one she wasn’t going to take for granted. “While the coronavirus interrupted my WNBA career, it has given me the opportunity to play in Australia,� she said. “I have always enjoyed playing in the WNBL - it is one of the best competitions in the world and I hope to see more supporters get behind the Flyers this season. “I want to thank Gerry Ryan, not just for giving me the opportunity to play in Australia for the Flyers, but for the incredible support he continues to provide women’s sport and of course women’s basketball. He has been a great supporter for many years.�

The 2020/21 WNBL season will be important for Cambage and members of the Opals squad as they finalise preparations for the Tokyo Olympics next year.

A Berwick lifesaver was recently recognised at Life Saving Victoria’s Awards of Excellence for 2020.

The annual Awards of Excellence celebrate the outstanding achievements by lifesaving volunteers, and those in the aquatic industry, who contribute to Life Saving Victoria’s (LSV) mission to prevent drowning deaths and aquatic injury in Victoria.

Berwick’s Tui Griffin was announced as Education Instructor of the Year at the online awards evening early this month.

Griffin won the aquatic industry award, which recognises the contribution of an individual who has demonstrated outstanding delivery, leadership, passion and commitment to LSV’s water safety education programs.

As part of his award presentation, Griffin was recognised for continually delivering enthusiastic, engaging and creative rotations on each educational program he works on.

Griffin is a positive influence on other staff and as a mentor. He is always inclusive of his teammates and the participants he is teaching.

He said the most rewarding thing about being an education instructor is that the kids leave with a greater sense of the water.

Among the major awards for the evening, Portsea Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) took out the coveted Beaurepaire Shield as the 2020 Marsh Club of the Year, while Point Leo SLSC’s

Rhys Cole was awarded the John Wishart Memorial Medal as the Microflite Lifesaver of the Year.

The Graeme Long Memorial Medal Volunteer of the Year award went to Port Campbell SLSC’s James Green, who was recognised for the significant personal commitment demonstrated in providing training to Mildura LSC, more than 500 kilometres from the coast, his club and his home.

Lorne SLSC’s Lucas Karlson won Westpac Youth Lifesaver of the Year for his outstanding contribution to the delivery of frontline patrolling services, while the Skills Development Program he developed at the club won the inaugural LSV Innovation Award.

LSV president, Paul James ASM, praised all nominees and winners for their efforts, acknowledging their willingness to help in a year that had brought unique challenges. “In these extraordinary times, it’s so important to reflect on and celebrate the achievements of our dedicated volunteers, staff and members of the broader aquatic community.

It is their ongoing commitment that keeps Victoria’s many beaches, pools and waterways safe,� he said. “We’d also like to thank the Victorian Government and our award sponsors - Marsh, Microflite and Westpac - for their support of LSV’s Awards of Excellence.�

Tui Griffin was recently named Education Instructor of the Year at Life Saving Victoria’s Awards of Excellence

A new team is set to lead Casey Softball forward Earlier this month, the Casey Softball Association held its annual general meeting. In what was a first, it was held via a Zoom meeting and was very well attended, and given it was new ground for the club, it all it went very smoothly.

There is a number of new faces on this year’s committee. Paul ‘Tiny’ Little is in his second year as president, Joanne Haines and Sandra Whalley are the incoming vice president and secretary, and Dot Bourke is treasurer for the second year. Ros Hendy and Ashleigh Cavalin are incoming members, with Margaret Steendam and Lynne Hawksworth continuing on for their second year.

Jenny Bares is the new competition and registration secretary, Hendy is the coaches co-ordinator, and Haines is looking after publicity and social media.

The club thanked all its outgoing committee members, who have done an outstanding job over the past two years.

As things stand right now, it’s unclear exactly when the 2020/21 season will be able to start. Those interested should follow Casey Softball Association on Facebook for updates, and feel free to send a message with any queries or questions regarding playing at Casey.

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Thursday, 20 August, 2020

|

STAR NEWS 21

SPORT

Picture: GARY SISSONS

Spearhead Nathan Lambden will once again lead the Casey bowling attack. 190165

The Swans are confident that all-rounder Lachie Sperling can have a big year with both bat and ball.

Picture: COURTESY OF ARJ GIESE

These Swans are building

By Nick Creely While there still is no clear indicator of exactly when the Victorian Premier Cricket season will eventually kick-off, for Casey-South Melbourne, it’s all about building on the bonds

created within the club and playing the patience game in terms of the cricket.

While the Swans will be desperately looking to break back into the finals when the season does eventually get the green light, for now, it’s all about staying connected, checking in with

QUIZ NUMBER 1727 1.

WHO was the first American man to win three consecutive Wimbledon tennis titles?

2.

WHICH state has won cricket’s Sheffield Shield the most times since 2000?

3.

WHICH Canadian city hosted the 2010 winter Olympics?

4.

WHO trained Gurners Lane to the 1982 Melbourne-Caulfield Cup double?

5.

WHO captained England to its famous 1966 World Cup soccer triumph?

6.

WHICH two legendary boxers clashed in Zaire in 1974?

7.

WHO does controversial soccer star Luis Suárez now play for?

8.

AT which course did Greg Norman score his 1986 British Open golf success?

9.

WHICH famous battlefield figure was once President of the United States Olympic committee?

10. WHAT nationality was champion squash player Jahangir Khan?

11. WHO was the last Test cricketer to be knighted?

12. WHICH Brit won cycling’s Tour de France in 2012?

13. WHICH sport began a nation-wide competition in Australia in 1977?

14. WHICH Australian tennis-playing brothers both reached the Wimbledon semi-finals in 1962?

15. WHO won the Australian and British Open golf titles in 1974?

16. WHICH former Footscray AFL captain-coach played in every position on the field?

17. HOW many circles appear on the Olympic flag?

19. WHICH American hurdler won over 100 straight races?

20. WHO skippered the American yacht Liberty that lost the America’s Cup to Australia II in 1983?

15. Gary Player 16. Ted Whitten 17. Five 18. Ice hockey 19. Edwin Moses 20. Dennis Connor 10. Pakistani 11. Sir Richard Hadlee 12. Bradley Wiggins 13. Soccer 14. Neale and John Fraser 6. Muhammed Ali and George Foreman 7. FC Barcelona 8. Turnberry 9. Douglas MacArthur ANSWERS: 1. Pete Sampras 2. Queensland 3. Vancouver 4. Geoff Murphy 5. Bobby Moore

22 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 20 August, 2020

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18. WHAT is generally accepted as the world’s fastest moving team sport?

each other, and showing support throughout what has been an incredibly tolling pandemic.

Swans coach Brian Keogh said that the playing and coaching group were getting around one another and as a result the excitement and anticipation for the season - and getting together once again as a group - is building by the day.

“We’ve been active with our players’ page on Facebook - we’re trying to check-in with everyone, and make sure everyone’s okay,” he said.

“We’ve got some guys who have had their work hours decreased or loss of jobs, and Lachie Sperling really led the charge with this he’s a teacher, and his school had a program, and obviously he put a cricket spin on this, but basically we’ve asked ‘what have you been doing in iso?’, ‘what are you most looking forward to about the season?’, and ‘what’s on your mind?’.

“We’ve had guys who have been really open about a few things, and we’ve been able to get around them.

“So as a club we’ve focused more on people’s health and wellbeing, and not anything cricket related.”

While Keogh said that the club can only control what they can control, and that is staying connected and showing support for one another, the Swans mentor weighed in on the season ahead, with Cricket Victoria only recently releasing a series of scenarios for getting the season underway.

“It already feels like a long pre-season, and we’ve not even had any pre-season,” he said.

“My gut feeling is option three (21 November start), which is a 17-round season, and all one-day cricket.

“Option one has almost passed us by, twoday cricket during Covid could be difficult, and in the one-day game there’s less breaks, and heaven forbid if someone got sick you don’t have to worry about chopping and changing.

With Keogh expecting the season to be played in one-day format, he said that the coaching group has had to re-adjust its thought process in terms of how his side could be structured.

“We’ve probably turned our attention to the white-ball, the game plans, those sorts of things,” he said.

“We’ve done a lot of work as a coaching group in knowing what our plans would be in one-day cricket and how we go about that.”

From an on-field perspective, the Swans went hard at gun bowlers Simon Mackin and Michael Topp as clubs scramble to improve their lists, with recruitment across the board as active as it’s ever been.

“I’ve never seen it so competitive in terms of the recruitment of players - this season, it’s just been rampant,” he said.

“If we identify a player who we believe isn’t getting an opportunity and we think there’s a gap in our list, it’s appropriate.

“We’ve spoken to lots of guys, but it is difficult when you don’t get the face-to-face interviews.”

The bowling department was a clear area of focus for the Swans this off-season, missing out on the signatures of Topp and Mackin, but securing mature-age quick Cal Dodson and young spinner Harrish Kannan to boost its stocks. Berwick spinner Isaiah Jassal is also expected to push hard for a spot in the first XI. But Keogh said the club was backing in what it already had, pointing to the likes of spearhead Nathan Lambden, Jackson Fry, Dodson, Lachie Sperling, Harrish Kannan, the returning Blake Glen and a range of other spinners such as Jonah Serong, Isaiah Jassal and Ashvin Adihetty to take the next step and get the club back in the finals race.

“Sperlo (Lachie Sperling) is like a new recruit, and at his best he’s a serious player, and he’s the fittest he’s ever been,” he said.

“Without piling on the pressure on him, we’re hoping for a really big year from him with bat and ball.

“Nathan (Lambden) could have another breakout season like he did two or three seasons ago, Jacko’s (Fry) last couple of months last season were really good he just didn’t get the reward, but he bowled really well so we think we can get good improvement out of him as well, and Cal Dodson is new to this level, but he’s a quality guy and competitive beast.

“And then we’ve got the spinners, so we feel we’ve got a really good mix.

“We’re going to go with what we got, there’s really upside there.”

In terms of the batting mix, Keogh indicated that the Swans will have an array of options to help fill the void left by overseas pro Luke Wells and mature-age gun Nathan Freitag, highlighting the emerging Ash Chandrasinghe and the experience around him as being a major positive for the club as they aim to be one of the high scoring teams in the competition, particularly with the white ball.

“We’ve given it (the batting mix) a fair bit of thought - Ash Chandrasinghe is obviously a lock at the top,” he said.

“Ash is 18, he’s as fit as he’s ever been, and he’s probably grown another inch or two again.

“We score quickly, we’ve got the Wyatts (Jordan Wyatt), Dev (Pollock), Wally (Michael Wallace) when he needs to, Sperlo scores quickly, and Dyl Hadfield scores quickly, and hopefully we can bat around Ash a bit.” berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

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Sean Scully

Travis Hamilton

Star News Group

Robertson Wouters

Berwick Ford

Pakenham Football Club

Phone: 0466 355 769

9

Roy Sanderson RJ Sanderson

Round 12

Round 13

Round 12

Round 13

Round 12

Round 13

Round 12

Round 13

Round 12

Round 13

GWS Port Adelaide Brisbane Melbourne Fremantle Western Bulldogs St Kilda West Coast Richmond

Carlton Melbourne Port Adelaide Richmond Fremantle Geelong Brisbane West Coast Collingwood

GWS Port Adelaide Brisbane Melbourne Carlton Western Bulldogs St Kilda West Coast Richmond

Carlton Melbourne Port Adelaide Richmond Fremantle Geelong Brisbane West Coast Collingwood

GWS Port Adelaide Brisbane Collingwood Carlton Western Bulldogs St Kilda West Coast Richmond

Carlton Melbourne Port Adelaide Richmond Sydney Geelong Brisbane West Coast Collingwood

GWS Port Adelaide Brisbane Collingwood Fremantle Western Bulldogs St Kilda West Coast Richmond

Carlton Melbourne Port Adelaide Richmond Fremantle Geelong Brisbane West Coast Collingwood

Sydney Port Adelaide Brisbane Collingwood Carlton Western Bulldogs St Kilda West Coast Richmond

Carlton Western Bulldogs Port Adelaide Richmond Sydney Geelong Brisbane West Coast Collingwood

Phone: 5945 0607

Phone: 5941 3000

Phone: 8768 2222

Fixtures Round 12

Tipstars Leaderboard Kelly Price ...................69 Jake Rabl .....................69 Travis Hamilton ............68 Leanne Heathcote ........65 Kip Homewood .............65

Ph: 0407 855 026

Roy Sanderson .............62 Sean Scully ..................62 Dr Spyro Antoniou ........60 Jarrett Drake ...............60 Matt Doyle ...................58

Sydney vs GWS Geelong vs Port Adelaide North Melbourne vs Brisbane Melbourne vs Collingwood Fremantle vs Carlton Western Bulldogs vs Adelaide St Kilda vs Essendon West Coast vs Hawthorn Richmond vs Gold Coast Suns

ED PLAY

Phone: 9769 3380

Fixtures Round 13 Gold Coast Suns vs Carlton Western Bulldogs vs Melbourne Port Adelaide vs Hawthorn Essendon vs Richmond Fremantle vs Sydney Adelaide vs Geelong Brisbane vs St Kilda West Coast vs GWS Collingwood vs North Melbourne

Casey Osteopathic Health Services Servicing The Beaconsfield Community for over 19 years.

Members of the Australian Osteopathic Association

SATURDAY & EVENING APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE 2 STELLA ST, BEACONSFIELD

OPEN 6 DAYS

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

12445086-FA12-20

For more information & professional friendly service, please contact: Casey Osteopathic Health Services

PH: 9769 9881

“We would like to thank all our supporters, sponsors and life members for all the support this season.”

BRING ON 2021!

0407 855 026 | pakenhamfc@bigpond.com

Matt Doyle - call today for all your real estate needs M 0423 339 328 T (03) 9088 7488 A 42 High Street, Berwick | matt.doyle@raywhite.com.

12453081-NG32-20

12453075-LB27-20

Thursday, 20 August, 2020

|

STAR NEWS 23

6-YEAR POWERTRAIN WARRANTY 1-4 SERIES UTILITY TRACTORS

JOB DONE. 1023E

COMPACT UTILITY TRACTOR

YOURS FOR

$

19,990

*

• Fitted with loader • 22 hp 3-cylinder diesel engine • Easy-to-use, two speed hydrostatic transmission • Standard 4WD and power steering

2025R

COMPACT UTILITY TRACTOR

YOURS FOR

$

23,990

*

• Fitted with loader • 24 hp 3-cylinder diesel engine • Easy-to-use, two speed hydrostatic transmission

3038E

COMPACT UTILITY TRACTOR

YOURS FOR

$

26,990

*

• Fitted with loader • 37 hp 3-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine • 3-range eHydro™transmission

Talk to your local Glenmac dealer about which John Deere Compact Utility Tractor will get the job done at your place.

14 Rushdale St, Knoxfield (03) 9763 8255 “Glenmac and John Deere… a successful partnership for over 40 years”

459 Maroondah Hwy, Lilydale (03) 9735 0166

85 Bald Hill Rd, Pakenham (03) 5941 5966

www.glenmac.com.au

*Price includes GST, pre-delivery, freight, assembly and dealer charges. Valid until 31/10/2020. Actual specifications, features and loader brands may vary from models shown. † Conditions apply. Valid on 1 - 4 Series Utility Tractors. 6 year/2000 hours (whichever comes first). See us for more information on the Limited Warranty for New John Deere Turf & Utility Equipment.

12456627-DL32-20

24 STAR NEWS

|

Thursday, 20 August, 2020

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au