BERWICK
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‘We weren’t asked’
Animal cruelty probe
Local heroes awarded
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Tulliallan residents have been petitioning for the sports fields to be constructed as promised for many years. 193835
Sporting victory It’s not every day you get excited to see construction huts pop up on a block of land - but when Rebecca Hyland spotted the small buildings at 195S Alisma Blvd last month, she was overjoyed. That’s because they signify the end of a years-long battle with the developer of Tulliallan estate in Cranbourne North to retain the 6.8 hectare space for sports fields, as was promised to residents of the estate when they first bought their properties. “Something good has happened in 2020!” said Ms Hyland, who has spearheaded the campaign against the developer.
EXPERTS IN FAMILY LAW
The parcel of land has lain empty for years as locals faced off against the developer, Konann. Residents had been assured that the land would be used for sports fields including soccer and cricket facilities. But in 2015, Konann applied for a planning permit to subdivide the land into 132 residential allotments. This was knocked back by Casey Council in February 2016 “given the precinct structure plan depicts the land as future active open space under the planning scheme.” That wasn’t the end of the saga, with Konann making a claim to the Minister of Planning and Casey Council for financial loss
- which were both rejected. The battle has also been to VCAT and the Supreme Court of Victoria. According to the City of Casey, construction on the project is due to begin this month with an anticipated completion date of March 2022. The project includes: Three soccer fields, two of which are overlaid on a cricket field. Cricket practice nets. A pavilion with six change rooms for players, two change rooms for referees, a community room, office, score rooms, kitchen, servery and toilets. Two car parks at either end of the reserve
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throughout the reserve and car · Landscaping parks including planting, paving and a shelter.
· Lighting to playing fields and car parks.
The contract for its construction has been awarded to the Lloyd Group Pty Ltd. Ms Hyland said the sight of the huts had been a welcome boost for the local community. “Everyone here is super keen and excited to get it happening and be able to use the facility,” she said. “It’s going to lift the morale of the whole estate, because it’s a battle that we’ve been fighting, and to see it physically happening is awesome.”
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NEWS
IN BRIEF Drugs off the street
Art development lacks consultation
A large quantity of drugs have been removed from the streets, after members of the Frontline Tactical Unit nabbed an erratic car. Police were patrolling the Hallam area at approximately 4:15PM on Saturday 31 October when they noticed a Ford Falcon sedan driving erratically on the Princes Highway. Members intercepted the vehicle and spoke to the male driver. As a result, police searched the car and allegedly located a quantity of drugs, believed to be cocaine and cannabis. The 22-year-old driver was arrested and taken to Dandenong Police Station for interview. Further enquiries led police to an address in Endeavour Hills, where they executed a search warrant shortly after midnight. Officers seized a significant quantity of drugs and cash, alleged to be proceeds of crime. The Endeavour Hills man was charged with trafficking a drug of dependence and possessing proceeds of crime. He was remanded in custody to appear at Dandenong Magistrates Court.
By Jessica Anstice
Brad Battin and opposed residents Mia, Roland, dog Teddy, Fin, Innis, Heidi, Sally-Anne and Philip at the deadend fire access track. 219907 cess,” he added. “It is apparent the Minister is placing the desire of a $500 million art collector who does not live in the area ahead of multigenerational Harkaway residents.” According to Mr Battin, the City of Casey’s support for the project came before the sacking of the councillors who are currently before IBAC for allegations of corruption with local developers. Left in the dark, many residents are urging their neighbours to submit a submission to the Planning Minister’s office, opposing to the major development. There is a long list of reasons why the community is fighting the development.
A large number of residents believe the location, King Road in Harkaway, is inappropriate for a facility of that capacity as it would funnel large volumes of traffic through the town. As the development requires a site specific amendment to the Casey Planning Scheme, resisting residents are also under the impression it will “set a dangerous precedent for Harkaway’s vulnerable surrounding green wedge countryside”. On top of that, concerns linger around housing a valuable art collection in an increasingly high fire risk area at the far extremity of a dead end road, with one resident calling it “extraordinarily unwise”.
Conduct: IBAC’s Casey inquiry resumes By Cam Lucadou-Wells The IBAC inquiry into alleged corruption involving Casey councillors and property developers is set to resume on Monday 9 November. The Operation Sandon public hearings had been adjourned in March due to Covid-19 health concerns. It is not clear whether IBAC will examine former Casey mayor Sam Aziz, who recently returned to Australia from Egypt. The inquiry alleged that Mr Aziz and another former mayor Geoff Ablett were involved in $1.2 million of transactions with property developer John Woodman. So far, Casey councillors including Mr Ablett, Amanda Stapledon, Susan Serey, Gary Rowe and Rosalie Crestani have been examined at the hearings. Former mayor and state MP Lorraine Wreford - who was a lobbyist for Mr Woodman - was also examined. The next six weeks of hearings will feature
remote participation by witnesses and be publicly streamed on IBAC’s website in line with Chief Health Officer directions. IBAC Commissioner Robert Redlich said the next round of hearings will examine ways to improve the transparency and integrity of Victoria’s planning system. “These hearings will explore the ramifications of behaviours exposed in our earlier examination of the conduct of some City of Casey councillors, and assess the adequacy of Victoria’s current systems and controls for safeguarding the integrity of the state’s planning processes.” Commissioner Redlich said the investigation raised concerns about “the relationship between individuals involved in planning and property development” in parts of Victoria beyond Casey. “IBAC will call a range of further witnesses to enable us to properly examine these concerns and their impact across the various levels of Victoria’s planning and property development system.”
The hearing’s final week will call expert witnesses in planning, campaign donations, lobbying and integrity standards at state and local government levels. “This final phase of the public hearings will explore opportunities to strengthen policies, systems and practices to prevent future corruption risks,” Commissioner Redlich said. Operation Sandon public hearings started in November 2019 in which serious corruption allegations involving some Casey councillors and developers were aired. It led to the installation of a Municipal Monitor Laurinda Gardner at the council. Following a report by Ms Gardner, Casey councillors were sacked by the State Government in February. The council will be run by administrators until councillor elections in 2024. Anyone with relevant information can contact www.ibac.vic.gov.au/report or 1300 735 135.
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The Narre Warren police station reception counter has officially reopened to the City of Casey area. The station, located at 8 Coventry Road, will now operate 24-hours, seven days a week. Due to the Covid-19 crisis the police reception counters in Endeavour Hills and Cranbourne remain closed. The Pakenham police station, located at 780 Princes Highway, has also officially reopened. To report non-urgent crimes and events, contact the Police Assistance Line on 131 444. In the case of an emergency, call 000.
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A number of motorists have been caught in the act by officers from the Casey Highway Patrol, who were out patrolling the streets as part of Operation Saturn.Some of the alleged offences detected on Wednesday 28 October included:A 51-year-old male driver from Cranbourne detected via automatic number-plate recognition (ANPR) as having a suspended licence. He was intercepted and will receive a summons to the Magistrates’ Court for driving whilst suspended. A 35-year-old female from Frankston was intercepted and underwent an oral fluid test. The test was positive illicit substance. There were also two young children in the vehicle. She will now lose her licence for six months. A 23-year-old female from Narre Warren South was detected via the ANPR as having a disqualified licence due to drug driving. She was intercepted and underwent an oral fluid test which tested positive for an illicit substance. Her vehicle was impounded for 30 days and she will receive a summons to attend the Magistrates’ Court for driving whilst disqualified and other charges.- A 23-year-old male from Cranbourne East was intercepted for excessive speed 113km/h in 80km/h zone. The male produced an international licence and was in the process of delivering pizzas. He will now be disqualified from driving in Victoria for three months.
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Only a small section of the Harkaway community has been consulted on the controversial planning scheme amendment that would see the construction of a $500 million gallery in the small town, revealed an MP. Member for Gembrook Brad Battin visited the Planning Minister’s officer on Monday 26 October for a briefing on the proposed art gallery, Rosemaur. The briefing revealed only 60 properties were contacted by the State Government as part of their consultation to make recommendations to the Planning Minister. Mr Battin said the government “failed” to confirm if Harkaway Primary School and their community would be consulted on the amendment. “The proposed multi-million-dollar project will completely transform Harkaway, and for only a small section of the community to be consulted on the amendment is a disgrace,” he said. “With the Minister’s office confirming Covid restrictions was inhibiting the normal consultation process on the amendment, the Minister must extend and expand its consultation process into the new year.” He discovered the government was also unable to confirm if traffic management would be considered as part of the approval process. “With potentially thousands of cars along Kind Road weekly it is beyond belief the government were unable to confirm if traffic management would be a part of its consultation pro-
STAR NEWS 3
THE LOWDOWN Q&A
with Beaconhills College Berwick library captain Jaime Watts
What is something people don’t know about you? I’m a huge fan of horror movies, video games and books, but usually get scared too easily to enjoy them properly. What was your most memorable moment? Why? It feels a little mundane, but the night that I finished my research paper for Extended Investigation. It was a thesis on monsters in fiction, which I’m really passionate about, so it was a huge mixture of emotions to actually see it finished. What would your last meal be? A chicken parmigiana. What do you love about the Beaconhills community? I really love how many opportunities there are. No matter what you’re interested in, there’s something that you can get involved with, or a chance to create something you’re passionate about. What event, past, present, or future, would you like to witness? The Stonewall Riots. It was a very difficult time, but it’s such an important piece of political and social history. Favourite book? Wintersmith by Terry Pratchett. Which six guests, dead or alive, would you invite to a dinner party? Taika Waititi, Neil Gaiman, Guillermo del Toro, Cate Blanchett, Missy Higgins and Jane Austen. What does a day in the life at school look like for you? A typical day of study usually involves me structuring my day with a schedule. I have trouble concentrating for long periods of time, so I’ll usually write out the tasks I need done, then break them each into smaller, more manageable parts and put them into a timeline for the
Get to know Jaime Watts. day. It really helps me to see everything written out so it doesn’t seem as overwhelming. What are your hobbies? Writing, art, reading, acting, listening to mu-
sic, photography, sewing, baking, gardening - I think I kind of collect hobbies. I find middle ground by not being particularly good at many of them.
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NEWS
Father jailed for ‘meet-up’ attempt at Fountain Gate By Mitchell Clarke
Farming land record sale By Danielle Kutchel The City of Casey has lost one of its last pockets of farmland with the sale of a 131 hectare land parcel in Clyde to Stockland. The $180 million sale was announced on Tuesday 3 November. The land, off Ballarto and Pattersons Roads, will “restock [the] residential pipeline” according to the property developing giant. The site is close to Stockland’s Edgebrook housing project and is within the approved Cardinia Creek South Precinct Structure Plan. Owner John Follett said it was an emotional day for his family, which has farmed the parcel of land for nearly 60 years, running cattle and calves. His reasons for selling were varied, he said. “It’s in the urban growth corridor, it’s the last parcel of land, and there have been a number of years where we were in a position where we with council rates and so forth, which are astronomical, where we couldn’t make the rates let alone anything else on the farm,” Mr Follett said. Mr Follett’s father first began farming at a market garden in Noble Park, before moving as development crept in. Now, with progress pushing his family out again, Mr Follett plans to continue farming but somewhere further out in the country. “We’ll find somewhere else for cattle and so forth - well and truly further out than the City of Casey!” he said.
The property was sold through Alex Scott and Co at Berwick after having been opened up to expressions of interest. While there was interest from many parties, Stockland was the “winning submission”, Mr Follett said, in a process that had been going for a while. He had been approached on many occasions previously by parties, with plans drawn up for schools and infrastructure in the area already. Despite the sale, he has concerns about the capacity of infrastructure in the area. “The lack of infrastructure in the area is the main problem, to cater for the number of people moving into the area,” he said. According to Stockland, the current masterplan for the area proposes more than 1,400 lots and townhome sites, two schools and a local town centre, a 10 hectare recreational park and an indoor community recreation facility. It also sits opposite the future Clyde Regional Park, a planned 200 hectare parkland with sporting facilities and a water reserve. The closure of the farm will happen in stages. Cattle will continue to graze there until Stockland’s purchase is completed, in five years time. Subject to finalisation of the acquisition and planning approvals, Stockland expects pre-sales to commence in March 2021 with civil works planned to commence in mid2021.
The persistent father attempted to meet what he thought was a 14-year-old girl at Fountain Gate. The judge said Raschella had within the first month after the initial conversation discussed various sex acts with her. “Some five weeks after those explicit conversations, you were discussing the possibility of meeting and having sex. You were 40 years old.” The court heard Raschella had no prior criminal history and Judge Marich acknowledged his prospects of rehabilitation were good. Judge Marich sentenced Raschella to 18 months in jail but ordered he be released in six months on a two-year good behaviour bond. He will also be a registered sex offender for eight years.
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John Follett, pictured in 2017, on the farm that has been sold to Stockland.
A “persistent” Northern suburbs father, who used social media to groom what he believed was a 14-year-old girl for sex, attempted to meet up with her at Fountain Gate. Adrian Raschella, 41, was sentenced in the County Court on 22 October after pleading guilty to one charge of using a carriage service to procure a person believed to be under 16 years of age. The court heard Raschella had used the social messaging app Kik to send sexually explicit messages and pornography to a Victoria Police undercover operate purporting to be a 14-year-old girl. Conversations began on 25 May 2019 and ended in 7 January 2020. Raschella asked the operative if she “liked older guys” from the outset before sending a pornographic video and suggesting they meet up to have sex. The court heard he was persistent in arranging to meet up, and on 29 June 2019 said: “If I was down in Fountain Gate one weekend, you interested in saying hi?” Raschella also sent the operative suggestive emojis and asked her how much notice she needed to take a “sickie” from school to instead spend a “fun day” with him. Judge Martine Marich said his offending was “objectively serious and grave”. “You were told from the very outset of your conversation with (the operator) that she was 14 years old and you proceeded with a sexualised conversation with her,” Judge Marich said.
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Thursday, 5 November, 2020
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STAR NEWS 5
NEWS
OPINION
Accessible information is online
LENSCAPE
The City of Casey has implemented a language translation service and text-to-speech functionality on council’s website to make online information more accessible for Casey’s culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) community members. As part of the Customer Experience Strategy, and in line with the Inclusive Casey Strategic Framework, the project also includes the digitisation of council forms and the hosting of a range of online services for vital community support programs such as the Community Resources during Coronavirus Pandemic page. With over 150 different cultural groups in Casey and 38 percent of residents born overseas, City of Casey’s Chair of Administrators Noelene Duff PSM, noted how essential it is for council to provide accessible online information and resources for all community members. “Providing accessible information to all community members during the Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic has been vital to ensure the safety of our community and prevent the spread of Covid-19,” Ms Duff said. “This project demonstrates council commitment to supporting our diverse community now and well into the future as we continue to enhance our digital capabilities to better serve our growing community.” Earlier this year in May, the council undertook a community survey to identify how Covid-19 had affected Casey’s community and to better understand what services are needed as restrictions ease. The survey highlighted nearly 25 percent of residents needed Covid-19 information translated into another language. The project also involved conducting one on one focus sessions with Casey’s CALD community members. The sessions set out to test the look, feel and functionality of the ‘listen and translate’ function and the website usability. Feedback from the sessions will be utilised to continue to build on changes to the website functionality and how best to display information. Further testing will examine how the community members use the translation services and how translated resources are accessed through other digital platforms.
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REAL ESTATE Email seren@starnewsgroup.com.au
Thursday, 5 November, 2020
A pedestrian crosses the new bridge on the Evans Road rail overpass in Lyndhurst. 220226
Harkaway not the place Mr. Hogg considers he has a great art collection and believes he has selected a suitable place in which to display it, however that definitely should not be the Harkaway township. Unfortunately, his investor and planners have been drawing upon other additional items which the Victorian planning minister has yet to consider for Mr. Hogg’s purposes, with a large community of critical residents and disappointed general community members looking on. In addition to the place for the gallery, many additional services are required including additional concrete and bitumen roads for the extra traffic volume and a cafe, which would inevitably spell the end of the well enjoyed green wedge Harkaway location that has for so long been valued, well kept and preserved. For those who are keen to lodge an objection/submission concerning what is clearly such a mistaken and disappointing plan in the
SOCIALLY SPEAKING On Friday 30 October, a story was shared to the Berwick Star News Facebook page about an investigation into a four-yearold dog who sustained serious neglect. Here is how our readers reacted online: Ida Van Buiten: I hope they got fined and can never own a animal again. Blayne Marae: Some humans forget that it is a privilege to have an animal; NOT a right. I hope these putrid excuses for humans have karma come their way hard and fast. Bev Marshall: Oh what the hell is wrong with people! Poor darlin’ suffered a horrible life and death! Heartbreaking. Lorna Currie: Oh my gosh how could anyone do this to a dog. Kosanka Maricic: I did not and can not read or see anything when related with animal abuse but I do have an opinion about those who are guilty of such crime. Isabella Potocki: Scumbags. Should be jailed for treating this poor dog in this manner. Heartbreaking. Lauren Hamilton: That is disgustingly cruel, how could you possibly let that beautiful dog suffer so greatly like that. So terribly sad. Lorna Sullivan: Run free with no pain over the rainbow bridge. You didn’t deserve what you got for the four years you were here. Jeremy Forbes: Animal cruelty should be jailed. Not a stupid fine they won’t pay and bull**** order against owning more. They go right back home and do it again. Tracey Henry: Scum. Throw the book at them.
City of Casey, the person to contact is Victorian Planning Minister Richard Wynne, by Friday 6th November. He might even be willing to come out to Harkaway and see for himself what is the actual situation and why so many people are so keen to preserve the historic Harkaway village intact for the future, and persuade Mr. Hogg to display his art in a more preferable and welcome location for him, the community and the future. Gloria O’Connor, Pakenham Upper.
Scales need adjusting Thanks to Mitchell Clarke for his stories, which serve to underline the vagaries of the judicial system. On one hand we have a drunk unlicensed hoon who had a “difficult upbringing” who was caught, thank goodness by VicPol before he could reoffend (again) driving apparently at over 0.098 per cent BAC doing 145 in a 60 zone, failing to stop at a red, collides with a lady in her 70s rendering her unconscious and in a coma for six days and leaving her with lifelong medical and psychological issues. Also injured were three passengers out joy riding with the miscreant. Apparently parental supervision is a thing of the past for many of
Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS today’s youth. Compounding this charade we also learnt that the driver (not the senior lady) was also out on bail. Where have we heard that before? Looks like the parole board/magistrate courts are a revolving door for some. The outcome - you’ve been a naughty boy and I sentence you to a maximum of three years but because of “good behaviour” and time in custody you will be out in less than a year. Not bad for nearly killing four people, driving while drunk, breaking bail, evading police, running a red, causing material damage, driving an unregistered car of dubious ownership, oh and what’s more just to show that we are very cross you won’t be able to drive for three years. There! Then we learn that a pervert, pedophile who had a “deprived childhood” who committed some horrendous sexual offences 15 years ago and none since apparently is jailed for a maximum of six years and three months with a minimum of four years and three months and a “risk” of deportation. Those scales of justice really need some urgent recalibration. Charles Harris, Pakenham.
THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN Thumbs Down! To the motorists who continue to floor it on the Monash in the 40 zones! You are a bloody disgrace! The speed limit is CLEARLY posted but you morons choose to put others at risk by doing 100!
Thumbs Up!
Thumbs Down! For people who can’t wear masks properly! Your face isn’t covered if your nose is sticking out! If you’re talking and your masks constantly drops get a new one or twist the straps then put them over your ears. Seriously it can’t be that hard. Coming from a health care worker who’s sick of seeing it!
To all the Casey teachers on World Teachers Day. What a year!
Thumbs Up!
Thumbs Up!
To restaurants and retail shops reopening.
To Four Figs in Beaconsfield. Haven’t been there for seven months - still awesome food, friendly service, super Covid safe too. Well done guys. Steak sandwich was a ripper.
Thumbs Down! To the people who are dropping their masks on the ground instead of putting them in the bin.
Thumbs Up! To Zagames Berwick Hotel who are giving cash back to local schools and community clubs. We ordered takeaway tonight and 10 percent of our order went to my son’s football club. I’m sure it all helps the club.
Thumbs Down!
Thumbs Down!
To everyone who rushed to Kmart as soon as restrictions eased.
To all those that have forgotten how to drive safely!
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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NEWS
Bobby had acute muscle wastage and was in severe pain, with one ulcer over his left hip creating a hole so deep that it extended down to the joint capsule. Pictures: RSPCA
A severely emaciated dog from a property in the south eastern suburbs has sadly been euthanised after he was surrendered to the RSPCA.
The four-year-old German Shepherd named Bobby was found by an RSPCA Victoria Inspector after a report of concern for the dog’s welfare was made to the organisation.
Animal cruelty probe By Mitchell Clarke A severely emaciated dog from a property in the south eastern suburbs has sadly been euthanised after he was surrendered to the RSPCA. The four-year-old German Shepherd named Bobby was found by an RSPCA Victoria Inspector after a report of concern for the dog’s welfare was made to the organisation. Bobby was given emergency care and pain relief after he was successfully surrendered to the RSPCA’s Burwood East veterinary team. Vets gave his body condition a score of just
one out of five and said he was emaciated, covered in ulcerative lesions with secondary infection and presented with swollen hind limbs. Bobby had acute muscle wastage and was in severe pain, with one ulcer over his left hip creating a hole so deep that it extended down to the joint capsule. Despite doing all they could to alleviate the dog’s pain and suffering, Bobby’s dire condition and poor prognosis meant he had to be euthanised. RSPCA Victoria Inspectorate team leader
Stuart Marchesani said it was “unacceptable” to leave an animal to suffer in the manner Bobby would have experienced. “It doesn’t take days or even weeks for an animal to deteriorate to this sort of condition, this is gross neglect that has gone on for months and months,” he said. “Sadly, Bobby would have been in significant pain and discomfort for a long time before we found him.” Mr Marchesani said Bobby’s case was “particularly distressing” given his young age. He added there were legal and moral obliga-
tions for pet owners to look after their animals. “All pet owners must take full responsibility for the animals in their care and, if they are no longer able to provide adequate care, we urge them to talk to RSPCA Victoria about their options,” he said. “There is no excuse for animal neglect and those found guilty under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act face fines up to $82,610 and two years’ imprisonment.” The case remains under investigation. Anyone with concerns about the welfare of an animal is encouraged to call 9224 2222.
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STAR NEWS 7
EVERY TEST HELPS Every test helps us get closer to a new normal. Go to work safely. Get back to school. See family. So even if your symptoms are mild, or you’ve been tested before, every test helps.
For testing locations visit vic.gov.au/CORONAVIRUS Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne
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NEWS
Covid stalls elective surgery
Call for freedoms By Mitchell Clarke Liberal Gembrook MP Brad Battin has taken to Parliament to call for indoor religious gathering limits to be increased. Current restrictions allow just 10 worshippers plus one faith leader but the State Government has flagged that number could increase to up to 20 people and a faith leader on Sunday 8 November. But Mr Battin and a prominent local religious leader wants that figure increased immediately. “Places of worship are more than places of gatherings on Sundays, they are a place of respite and safe haven for many in our community,” he said. “Right at this particular time, more than any time in history that I can recall, they need to be open. They need the ability to go and work with their community and have people come in just so they can sit down and have that discussion. The politician said places of worship should be granted the same restrictions in line with other industries including government. “We can meet safely in Parliament with 20 people plus staff, there is no reason why places of worship cannot have the same number of people plus the members conducting the service,” he argued. “Whilst I thoroughly love going down to my local cafe ... that is something that is very good for my mental health, but for many people that is a church. “It could be St Pat’s in Pakenham, St Michael’s in Berwick or it could be the Gurdwara’s in Pakenham or Officer. It doesn’t matter the religion. It matters that they get the opportunity to connect.
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
The Officer Sikh temple wants to reopen to more worshippers. 212439 “Many in those communities want to have a place they can go and have a discussion in numbers.” From 28 October, outdoor religious ceremonies were able commence with up to 20 people - as well as those required for the service. With a number of important cultural celebrations - like Diwali - fast approaching, Officer Sikh temple spokesperson Harpreet Singh believes the number of indoor worshippers should be at least 25 in addition to staff and volunteers.
He said it had been frustrating that bottle shops were able to remain open to all members of the public but places of worship were capped. “Our volunteers make sure that everyone is temperature checked, masks are worn, people are socially distant and not indoors for longer than five to 10 minutes,” he explained. “Most of us are suffering massively because of these restrictions. No one thinks about faith groups, everyone focuses on businesses but not faith groups, who also need to remain financially sustainable.”
Workers gain bushfire safety skills Victorians who work in, or travel through, bushfire-prone areas have been encouraged to upskill in a bid to stay safe this bushfire season. CFA Deputy Chief Officer Gregg Paterson AFSM said this Fire Action Week (October 19-25) was the perfect reminder to not only those who live in bushfire areas but also to those who work and travel into such areas to prepare. In the two years since CFA launched its online learning course, Bushfire Safety for Workers, in October 2018, more than 6200 people have completed the course. “It’s quite a milestone considering we were initially aiming for a target of 500 people in the first year, but we’d always like more people to learn about bushfire behaviour so they can keep themselves safe,” Mr Paterson said. Bushfire Safety for Workers was the first public-facing module on CFA’s Learning Hub, and is designed to help workers with their own bushfire safety while working and travelling in bushfire-prone areas.
“Being available online means it can be accessed any time as long as you have an internet connection, which has improved accessibility and reach to people who work in high-risk areas. “Learning about bushfire risk is important to all Victorians, whether they live in the city, the suburbs, or the country. “Given the current situation with COVID-19 and the need to engage with people more online, it has been incredibly beneficial to have this e-learning module available.” Mr Paterson said the module has been very well received by course participants. “Incredibly, more than 90% of people who completed our evaluation said they would recommend it, that they understood how to apply the information, and that they’d be confident in applying it in their roles,” he said. “I think a key factor is that it has been designed to be interactive to keep the learner engaged. It includes scenarios, videos and interactive content. It is not just slabs of text with a few questions, it is engaging and re-
ally gets you thinking. “We would like to think that it will help save lives if it hasn’t already.” Nick Symons from the Environment Protection Authority Victoria said the organisation is incorporating the module as mandatory training for personnel in field based emergency management roles. “The risk of bushfire is very real to those staff so it’s important they have this online module to gain an understanding of the risks, be able to assess those risks, and then make the right decisions to keep themselves safe.” The Bushfire Safety for Workers course is divided into four sections; one about bushfire behaviour and environment, one about bushfire warnings, one about how to be prepared on the road, and the final one about being caught at a property. It takes about 45 minutes plus a short registration process which can be undertaken online at https://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/bushfire-safety-for-workers
Monash Health’s elective surgery waiting list has ballooned by 21 per cent due to deferrals during the Covid-19 pandemic’s peaks. According to its 2019-’20 annual report, Monash Health’s waiting list swelled from 7545 to 9150 by the end of June. This is even before Victoria plunged into its Covid ‘second wave’. Between January and June, Monash Health completed more than 174,000 screening tests and cared for 25 Covid-19-positive inpatients, including Australia’s first. Meanwhile 21 per cent of “long waiting” elective surgery patients lingered on the list - more than four times the Monash Health benchmark. During 2019-’20, the health service which includes Monash Medical Centre, Dandenong Hospital and Casey Hospital admitted 25,379 elective surgery patients. This was 13 per cent below its annual target of 29,275. Elective surgeries were limited during Covid-19’s peak periods in line with National Cabinet’s decision, a Monash Health spokesperson said. “As Victoria continues on the roadmap for reopening, Monash Health is increasing elective surgery activity. “Importantly, at all times throughout the pandemic, Monash Health has continued to provide prompt elective surgery to patients who urgently need it.” Clayton, Dandenong and Casey emergency departments recorded a third less presentations during the Covid ‘first wave’. Despite this, the EDs performed well below benchmarks for ambulance transfer times, wait times and length of stays in 2019-’20, according to the annual report. At Casey, 48 per cent of triage category 1-5 patients were seen within clinically recommended times - well below the 80 per cent target. At Dandenong, the percentage was 54.5 per cent. “Monash Health encourages anyone in the community who needs medical attention to seek assistance as soon as it is required and not to put it off,” a spokesperson said in reference to the reduced ED presentations. “This can be through a hospital emergency department or your local GP.”
Waiting times at Dandenong Hospital’s emergency department failed to meet benchmarks. 165451 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS
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Kinder cash
Berwick Business Group has come up with an innovative way to safely celebrate Halloween.
Local businesses have come together to encourage the community back into the Berwick village.
A scary good idea By Jessica Anstice Berwick Business Group came up with an innovative way to safely celebrate Halloween. Local businesses came together to encourage the community back into the Berwick village. Shoppers interested in participating are asked to find Halloween inspired balloon displays in four of the Berwick businesses. Once located, they are urged to take a selfie, post it to social media and hashtag #halloweenberwick to enter.
There are lots of prizes from local businesses to be won. “The timing is perfect for the reopening of many of the businesses in the area, and it will encourage more of the community to return to the village,” Berwick Business Group president Magda DAbaco said. “And if you’re about during sunset, then you will see the beautiful old trees all lit up on High Street too, which was a project that the Berwick Business Group worked tirelessly with the council on for the last two years to implement.”
Shoppers interested in participating are asked to find Halloween inspired balloon displays in four of the Berwick businesses.
Early childhood services across Casey are set for a funding boost to support children in kinder during Term 4 and help them get ready for school. Early Childhood Minister Ingrid Stitt on Tuesday 3 November announced more than 1,700 kinders across the state will share in more than $3.7 million for early childhood services in Term 4. “Early childhood staff across Victoria have done an outstanding job at supporting children and families during this challenging year - and we’re extending the support we’re providing these services,” Ms Stitt said. “We’re making sure Victorian children get the most out of their last term at kinder and have a great start to school.” Grants of up to $5,000 will be available for local kindergarten services to support children who have returned to on-site learning by getting the most out of kinder and on making positive transitions to school. The funds will allow services to fund more kindergarten program hours, additional educator hours so existing staff can undertake transition activities or provide more one-on-one time with children, and to access allied health support such as speech pathologist and occupational therapists. It will be available to services that are not yet receiving funding through the State Government’s $160 million School Readiness Funding initiative who are already able to access these supports. In an Australian-first, the final stage of the roll-out of School Readiness Funding will be completed in 2021 and all kindergarten services in Victoria will be provided with needs-based funding to support their children.
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Plea to keep club agile By Danielle Kutchel Undoubtedly, 2020 has not been the year any of us expected. For the Narre Warren Calisthenics Club, it was to be a year of new beginnings with the opening of their new dance studio. A grand opening was held at the beginning of the year and classes commenced, with plans for fundraisers to help support the club as in normal years. But these best-laid plans were derailed by the pandemic, and the club has found itself struggling. Prior to the establishment of the new studio, the club had always hired other halls for their events, with additional money spent on storage facilities for costumes and props. The studio changed all of this, giving them a proper home for events as well as room for all of the club’s needs. The advent of the pandemic saw the club shut down face-to-face classes for the majority of the year. Zoom classes have become the norm, and involve a lot of effort on the part of coaches to put together - but they’re no replacement. Meanwhile, students and their families have been asked to contribute what they could in terms of fees. “Covid has been financially touch on our members - they’ve been amazing and paid what they could in fees, but lots of people have lost their job or may be the only income earner in their house,” explained Jacqueline Crichton, part of the club’s fundraising committee. “It affected the fees we were getting, which help maintain our rent, rates, gas and electricity.” In ordinary years the club holds regular fundraising events to cover the shortfall in expenses - but again, Covid has put the kibosh on that.
Narre Warren Calisthenics Club members at the opening of the new studio. The club decided to start a Go Fund Me to help raise funds to cover their costs. It was something they mulled over for a while - as Ms Crichton explained, one of the main concerns for the committee was that they didn’t want to place pressure on their struggling members. But they were heartened to see members embrace the fundraiser, giving as much as they could to keep the calisthenics club afloat. “It was eye opening to see how many people supported us. It made us all quite emotional,” she said.
And it couldn’t have come at a better time, she added, as lockdown extended the club’s physical closure and threatened its very survival in a year that should have been one of their biggest. “It was almost a last resort for us. We’re at the point now where we don’t want to lose all our hard work and we don’t want to sacrifice everything,” Ms Crichton said. “It’s very hard to say we’re going to lose everything, but it’s not something that’s completely off the table. “We don’t want to fold; we’ve been around
for over 50 years. We don’t want our first year in our own studio to be the end of Narre Warren Calisthenics.” Funds raised will go towards covering the rent on the studio, which has been reduced thanks to a supportive landlord. And, Ms Crichton said, the club may still be able to reach its goal in years to come: to keep the studio running and increase the number of members. To donate, please go to https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-support-our-studio
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Grants keep arts alive By Dominique Hennequin Applications for Casey Council’s arts development funding program close Friday 6 November. The council is offering three-year grants of up to $10,000 to help local arts organisations operate. Windmill Theatre Company president Sean van Geyzel said his organisation would “definitely” apply to “keep the company going”. “We still don’t even really know what the future holds because there’s no clear pathway to coming back,” he said. If their application were successful, he said the first year of funding would be spent softening the blow of caused by the pandemic shutdown. “I think in the scheme of things we’re probably in a luckier position than some companies,” Mr van Geyzel said. “We had just finished our January show, which went really well - who was to know that was basically the last time that we’d have audiences?”
The three-year grants will help arts organisations operate. The company was preparing to begin rehearsals for its next show, Bring It On, when theatre around the country was shut down in March. Now Windmill will go into next year on a tight budget. “We do what we do for the love of it, but ultimately, need to make sure we don’t just throw money in a hole because we need to be able to come back and be there for people year on year on year,” Mr van Geyzel said.
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Colin Byron of Rotary Club of Dandenong and Endeavour Hills serves lunch at St James Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS Anglican Church. 218837
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Lunch relief served weekly Police officers, Rotarians and parishioners are teaming up to give away about 100 takeaway lunches each Monday in Dandenong. Since Covid’s second wave, there’s been a steady increase in meals served to people in need at St James Anglican Church, volunteer and Rotarian Leanne Byron said. The volunteers include members of Rotary Club of Greater Dandenong and Endeavour Hills, Endeavour Ministries and The Andrews Centre, St James priest Graeme Peters and wife Jane Peters and parishioners and Victoria Police officers. The Rotary club has also supplied swags and blankets to the church for people sleeping rough. It has also provided groceries for food parcels at Dandenong-based charity Cornerstone and Springvale Benevolent Society since Stage 4 restrictions. The club was helping with take-away meals at Cornerstone on Thursday nights. Ms Byron said about 30 per cent of Cornerstone’s clients were regulars, as well as asylum seekers, migrants and international students with little or no income. Its food parcels were distributed on site as well as delivered to those isolated at home, she said. She said the club would offer further groceries to Springvale Benevolent Society prior to Christmas. “Throughout Covid they have provided
Rotary Club of Dandenong and Endeavour Hills president Kam Pow and Cornerstone chief executive Naomi Paterson. 218837
Greater Dandenong citizen of the year Chris Keys and Rotary Club of Dandenong and Endeavour Hills member Leanne Byron. fresh produce and grocery boxes for families who do not receive Centrelink benefits, and also to families and individuals who request assistance due to loss of employment or changed circumstances during this crisis.”
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Local-made Covid boost
FOCUS ON … REMEMBRANCE DAY
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
Remembrance Day at the Pillars of Freedom in 2019. No service will be held this year.
No gatherings to remember The office has undertaken two audits of non-compliant businesses due to their tendering process. The issues were resolved without further action. At worst, Mr Matthews can recommend the naming and shaming of non-compliant businesses in Parliament. Mr Matthews said he hadn’t had anything to do with the Belt and Road agreement between the State Government and China. There was however an “opportunity” to increase local content on train, bus and tram stocks from the current 60-65 per cent.
Creating a vision to follow TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS IAN ASH In last week’s article I discussed the importance of having a clear vision and how this helped propel the Richmond footy club to become ‘one of the best teams of the modern era’. I also briefly discussed how a clear Vision is central to getting alignment on what needs to be achieved and is comprised of two key elements: 1. Simplicity – so that everyone is really clear about what is being strived for and 2. Compelling statement – so that everyone believes that what they are doing in pursuit of the Vision is valuable and worthwhile. Interestingly there is no one purpose that a Vision statement serves since it can be used to convey a variety of things about a business such as: Who do we want to be? What do we want to be known for? What do we ultimately want to achieve? What key difference do we want to make? You will recall that Richmond CEO Brendan Gale had very clear and defined goals expressed within his vision statement and this can work very well for focusing the team on specific key outcomes. However, it is not necessary to be that specific. In fact many compelling Vision statements can never be achieved but they still work well because of the intent that they convey. How is this possible? Well consider the early seafarers who explored overseas lands well before the advent of GPS, sextants and any other navi-
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gational device. How did they manage to cross seas to far off lands and return home safely without these? The way they did it was to use the sun during the day and the stars at night to set their course or vision. What chance did these early sailors have of ever reaching the sun or the stars? None, but they were still incredibly valuable to setting the correct path and guiding them to their ultimate destination even though they could never get there. The way to construct a vision for your business is to work with other senior members of your business to answer the questions in the four bullets above. Have each person write down one or more statements that address one or more of these questions and then collectively share the results. Look for the common, underlying themes and use one or more of the statements as a basis to derive the final Vision statement. Note that a Vision statement is not intended to define what the business does and should be standalone. These can often be the basis for catch-phrases or slogans. Coming up with a ‘simple’ statement is not quite as easy as it sounds since the temptation may be to try to merge all the ideas into a single statement. However, there is a valuable marketing adage that states “less is more” and so the focus should be on reduction to a single more powerful statement (Vision statements should not be more than a single sentence). Keep going (reducing) until a statement is created that the whole team can buy into. Here are some good examples: “A just world without poverty” – Oxfam “Working together for a healthier world” Pfizer “No one needs to go unsupported in our local community” – Hampton Park Community House Ian Ash is managing director of OrgMent Business Solutions - www.ombs.com.au
Thursday, 5 November, 2020
Remembrance Day services on 11 November will not go ahead at Cranbourne and Dandenong cenotaphs due to Covid restrictions. Under current rules, people are confined to 25 kilometres travel from home and to outdoor gatherings of 10. The restrictions may be further eased on 9 November but it would be too late to organise services, Dandenong-Cranbourne RSL secretary Barry Rogers said. Normally hundreds would flock to the Dandenong and Cranbourne cenotaphs to observe
a minute’s silence that marks the end of World War I and commemorates the fallen during wartime. The RSL sub-branch will lay a wreath at the Pillars of Freedom in Dandenong without ceremony on 11am. Members of the public can lay their own tributes at another time of their choosing, Mr Rogers said. Anzac Day services were similarly cancelled due to Covid lockdown this year. They are expected to resume with some normality in 2021, Mr Rogers said.
REMEMBRANCE DAY 2020 On the 11th Hour, of the 11th Day, of the 11th Month
when the gun fell silent, We Will Remember
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Don Matthews addresses the SEMMA AGM via ZOOM.
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Large construction projects are turning to more locally made products and services due to the impact of Covid-19, the state’s Local Jobs First Commissioner says. The pandemic’s disruption to offshore supply chains was the main cause, Don Matthews said in a speech to the South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance AGM on 14 October. The question was now whether the localfirst trend will continue, he said. Often the reason for looking offshore was to do with “perception” and nothing to do with “performance specification”, he said. Mr Matthews said much more work had to be done with changing the views of architects and consulting engineers, who were at the “forefront” of a project’s design before tender. “The thing that surprises me is how little that architects know about local capability despite the fact that they say they always look at specific local content.” Many products were being sourced from European states like Poland, Slovakia and Germany that could easily be supplied at the same specification locally. Mr Matthews is Victoria’s first Local Jobs First Commissioner, appointed by the State Government in 2018. Part of his role is to check whether the government’s large projects are complying with the contracted amount of local jobs and local products. He also advocates to 300 state government agencies, as well as architects, unions and Tier 1, 2 and 3 contractors. His role is mainly collaborative, seeking to resolve issues before issuing non-compliance orders.
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FOCUS ON … REMEMBRANCE DAY
No service for Poppy Day By Danielle Kutchel Remembrance Day in Berwick will look a little different this year, thanks to the Covid-19 pandemic. Berwick RSL President Wayne A’Vard said no commemoration event would be held this year, in line with restrictions on gatherings. Instead, members of the RSL will leave a box of poppies at the cenotaph on the Berwick High Street, for people to come and place a poppy at the memorial throughout the day. The branch will also ensure the flags are at half mast. Some RSL members will hold their own private service during the day, however this will not be broadcast publicly and Mr A’Vard asked anyone who sees the service taking place to please not join in and crowd around. He suggested people take their own quiet moment to reflect at 11am with a minute’s silence. “As far as commemoration services, this is the nearest we can do,“ he said. “We dont want people bottling up and putting us and themselves at risk.“ The coronavirus pandemic has also put a dent in the RSL’s budget, limiting the amount of fundraising they are able to do. Collectors, often aged in their 70s and 80s, have been unable to sell poppies as they normally would. Berwick RSL will host a stand at Akoonah Park Market on the Sundays before Remembrance Day, selling poppies in a bid to raise funds to continue supporting veterans. They also have an online shop selling badges and pens, and Mr A’Vard urged people to support the RSL by buying a poppy online and having it delivered. To purchase a poppy or make a donation to the RSL, please visit www.berwickrsl.org.au/ shop/
Berwick RSL has asked people not to gather at the Berwick cenotaph for Remembrance Day this year. 187416
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Remembrance Day 2020 Each year at 11am on 11 November - the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month - we pause to remember those men and women who have died or suffered in all wars, conflicts and peace operations. This year marks the 75th anniversary of the end of the Second World War. Thousands returned to our shores to much fanfare, and their loved ones. Thousands more never made the journey home. Whilst we are unable to mark this year’s Remembrance Day by gathering together at local services due to COVID-19, we encourage you to pay your respects at home or at work at 11am on 11 November 2020. #LestWeForget
Anthony Byrne MP Federal Member for Holt Shop 7, 1060 Thompsons Rd Cranbourne West VIC 3977 TEL: 8790 0556 EMAIL: anthony@anthonybyrnemp.com
Authorised by Anthony Byrne MP, ALP, Shop 7, 1060 Thompsons Rd, Cranbourne West VIC 3977
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Gyms safe to work out Spring is a time of increased activity in gyms around the country, but in Melbourne doubly so. Due to the lockdown there has been a pent up demand for exercise. Sales of exercise equipment and diet products are at record levels as Melburnians finally get to shake off their Covid Kilos. “There has been a huge amount of interest in our three gyms and classes,” said Fit n Firm Director, James Haupt. “People are talking about their mental state more than ever and realizing the benefits of regular exercise on their minds more than their bodies. I’ve never seen this before.” He believes his will be a common occurrence in gyms across Melbourne as regular gym attendance kicks off again. Concerns about safety are upper most in people’s minds. Gymnasiums are required to provide a Covid safe environment for both members and staff. The State Government has given gyms a clear set of instructions to enforce a Covid Safe environment. “It’s placed an extra burden on gymnasiums to ensure everyone is safe, but the last thing anyone wants is to see another outbreak,” Mr Haupt said.
“I think gyms everywhere will be very cautious about maintaining hygiene, even though it takes extra effort. “We see the government recommendations as a minimum and exceed them whenever possible.” In order to maintain a Covid safe environment people attending gyms need to contact their gym first or visit their website to find out what the requirements are. There will be changes. People may need to book their workout time, take extra towels and some classes may not be running. To find out more about Fit n Firm including finding your nearest gym, visit https://www. fitnfirm.com.au/
Gyms like Fit n Firm have plans to keep patrons Covid safe.
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STAR NEWS 17
NEWS
Local heroes recognised By Jessica Anstice Three deserving charity organisations have been announced local heroes, as nominated and voted for by the local community. Littlefoot and Company, Sikh Volunteers Australia and Backpacks 4 Vic Kids were announced Westfield Local Heroes grant recipients for 2020. Every year, Fountain Gate Shopping Centre awards up to three $10,000 grants to deserving individuals and their organisations who dedicate their time to positively impact the lives of others. The grants are awarded to further support the important contributions they make in their communities. Josh Carell, founder of Littlefoot and Company, a Casey based creative event and art therapy organisation, uses the power of art to help improve mental health. Five years ago, he and his sister Eden, a qualified art therapist, established the organisation to provide free art therapy to the community. The pair host a range of events and workshops, including visual arts, spoken word and poetry workshops, for young people and adults. “Making art in the company of others or sharing your art allows for social connection and a sense of being valued. It can allow for healing and growth,” Mr Carell said. Financial support has been an issue for Littlefoot and Company, so Mr Carell coordinates popular outdoor movie nights in Berwick’s botanic gardens, which help fund the free art programs. He and the company have worked hard to continue supporting the community during the Covid-19 pandemic through online programs. “Art therapy is a practical resource for mental health preventative measures and is essential for developing minds to cope and comprehend the challenges we face,” he added. Littlefoot and Company will use its $10,000 grant to rent a dedicated space for its free art therapy programs for a year. Mr Carell said it was “a bit of a surprise at first” when notified of the win. “Overall we were very happy and excited when we realised we were one of the winners,” he said. “This grant is big for us as it will allow us to open up our very own space in 2021 and provide free art therapy for the community, which has been a dream of ours ever since we started Littlefoot and Company. “It means a lot. It motivates us to keep persisting and chasing our goals of creating a sustainable company that offers social support and therapeutic spaces. It’s extremely humbling to know our community continues to get around us and support us and gives us an opportunity to take things to the next level as a community organisation.” Volunteering is a part of life for Sukhjit Singh, a member of Sikh Volunteers Australia. He was there to help when the worst bushfires in living memory ravaged Victoria. The dedicated volunteer spent 16 days at the Bairnsdale relief centre working with Sikh Volunteers Australia’s free food van, offering three meals a day to evacuees. Sukhjit was up at 4.30am to start preparing breakfast and often worked late into the night. The organisation aims to promote peace, harmony and multiculturalism. “I do this to promote wellbeing and prosperity for everyone,” Sukhjit said. “It’s my responsibility to give back something to the community that has provided my family and me with so many opportunities.” Sukhjit perfectly balances volunteering with his personal life and busy career. “I mostly do service in our free food van program,” he added. “We not only help people in need but break down barriers and help people come together to make a great multicultural Australia.” Sikh Volunteers Australia will use its grant to replace the oven in its food van and increase food storage capacity to serve more people in an emergency. Backpacks 4 Vic Kids founder Sally Beard leads a dedicated team of volunteers that pro18 STAR NEWS
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The pair host a range of events and workshops, including visual arts, spoken word and poetry workshops, for young people and adults.
Volunteering is a part of life for Sukhjit Singh, a member of Sikh Volunteers Australia.
Backpacks 4 Vic Kids founder Sally Beard leads a dedicated team of volunteers that provides much-needed comfort and dignity for vulnerable children entering foster or emergency care.
Littlefoot and Company will use its $10,000 grant to rent a dedicated space for its free art therapy programs for a year.
Josh Carell, founder of Littlefoot and Company a Casey based creative event and art therapy organisation, uses the power of art to help improve mental health.
vides much-needed comfort and dignity for vulnerable children entering foster or emergency care. These children are often taken into care at a moment’s notice with nothing more than the clothes they are wearing. Ms Beard was outraged when she heard many wait up to eight hours in soiled clothing or hospital clothing while waiting for a safe place to go. She founded the non-profit Backpacks 4 Vic Kids to provide these children with a backpack of essentials and comfort items. The backpacks contain clean, appropriate clothing, new underwear and comfort items like a blankets, soft toy and a torch.
ognition before being put to a public vote. Speaking to the success of the 2020 Westfield Local Heroes program, Scentre Group national community experience manager Pam Wilson said the company continues to recognise and reward everyday people doing extraordinary things. “We are thrilled to be able to support the incredible work they are doing every day and it’s with great pleasure that we announce our 2020 Westfield Local Heroes grant recipients,” she said. “We thank our customers for casting their votes and helping determine our 2020 Westfield Local Heroes across our centres.”
Thursday, 5 November, 2020
Other items in the pack include toiletries, stationery, a book, new socks and what Ms Beard calls extra love items such as games, lunchboxes or warm gloves. “Each pack has several hand-made items like woollen blankets so the children can literally wrap themselves in the love of someone who cares,” she said. “My goal is to ensure the displaced children have clean, appropriate clothing, toiletries and a few belongings of their own.” Backpacks 4 Vic Kids will use its grant to put together 200 ME packs. Earlier this year, the community was called upon to submit nominations for everyday heroes they believe would benefit from the rec-
berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
FOCUS ON … YOUR HEALTH YOUR IMAGE
Family GP service
In our last editorial, we explored measures to maintaining positive mental health during these testing times. Today, I want to focus on what steps you can take if you are concerned about yourself or your loved one’s mental health. The answer, in a sentence: seek help. Talk to your loved ones and encourage professional assistance. This all starts with a visit to your doctor, where you can speak with them about getting a Mental Health Care Plan. A mental health care plan identifies what type of health care you need and spells out what you and your doctor have agreed you are aiming to achieve. In the latest federal budget, the amount of government subsidised phycologist visits, per patient, was double from 10 to 20 per year. This subsidy can be accessed through the creation of a mental health care plan with your doctor. Prior to visiting your doctor, access the websites psychologytoday.com or healthengine.com.au to find psychologist in your local area. Read their profiles and find the one that best suits you. If a visit to your doctor seems a little daunting at first or it’s not immediately available, there are several free telephone services available, including Lifeline on 13 11 14 and the Mental Health line on 1800 001 511. Always in the case of an emergency, call 000. Pharmacists are often your most accessible health care professionals. At Blooms The Chemist Casey Central our pharmacists have been trained in mental health first aid and we have a mental health resource guide that can be given to customers in-store. Being a community-minded pharmacy, we encourage our wonderful community of Casey to look out for one another. Talk to your loved ones and if you have concerns - please seek professional help. We look forward to seeing you all back in-store as lockdown restrictions ease.
All dental services under one roof Smiles First opened in 2008 as a general dentist clinic but has since grown to a one stop shop. Four general dentists offer a wide range of dental treatments. Staff include an oral health therapist, a dental hygienist plus a dental surgeon, endodonist and prosthodontist. Smiles First also has its own X-ray and CT scan facilities and offers orthodontic treatment too. Passionate about helping patients Smiles First dentists and specialists strongly believe in health education; at every visit you will gain more knowledge about the care of your mouth and teeth. Dentists and specialists at Smiles First are skilled professionals who keep up with industry trends and love what they do. They listen to your each and every concern, explain your current condition and present suitable dental treatment options.
Smiles First offers multiple dental specialties including general dentistry under one roof. One of the specialists on the team is endodontist Dr Hitesh Navani. He graduated with a BDS (Hons) in 2007 from Melbourne University. After excelling in the primary examinations with the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons in 2012, he gained his Fellowship with the RACDS in 2014. Hitesh enjoys all types of challenging root canal treatments as well as surgical endodontics. He is skilled in managing resorption and trauma cases in children and adults Another specialist on the team is prosthodontist Dr Edelmiro De Hoyos (Dr Miro) who joined the practice in 2009. He completed his BDS in 1999 in Mexico and a Master of Science
Degree in Biomaterials at the National University of Singapore in 2003. After graduating with high distinctions, he joined the Doctor of Clinical Dentistry (Prosthodontics) coursework at the University of Adelaide where he graduated with distinctions in 2006. Dr Miro’s professional interests are extensive and include more complicated cosmetic and restorative treatments such as veneers, crown and bridges, lasers, complex removable prostheses and full mouth rehabilitations, as well as implant restorations. Quality, Affordable Family Dentistry in Endeavour Hills Discover the Smiles First difference Book an appointment today with the warm and caring dentists at Smiles First. Call 8772 2053 or make an appointment online at www. smilesfirst.com.au
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OPEN 7 DAYS Monday to Friday | 8:00am to 6:00pm Saturday | 9:00am to 1:00pm • Sunday | 9:00am to 1:00pm Our team at Beaconsfield General Practice is committed to high quality medical care and service to all age groups in the community. Beaconsfield General Practice is a private billing practice. Children under 16 and age pensioners are bulk-billed for their consultations.
2 Ann Street, Beaconsfield | 9707 0993 | www.beaconsfieldgp.com.au berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
field General Practice and brings with her a wealth of knowledge. Dr Tse is passionate about providing quality
health care to patients. Her practice encompasses a broad range of areas of general practice and her areas of special interest include travel health, women’s health, pre-pregnancy planning, children’s health, preventative health, health screening, childhood and adult immunisations and shared antenatal care. Beaconsfield General Practice is a private billing practice with discounted fees applying for healthcare and concession card holders. The practice also bulk bills consultations for children under the age of 16 and age pensioners. Appointments can be made by calling the rooms on 9707 0993 or online though HotDoc or visit the website - www.beaconsfieldgp. com.au
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Beaconsfield General Practice is located at 2 Ann Street, Beaconsfield and their team of general practitioners, nursing staff and receptionists are committed to providing high quality service and medical care to everyone throughout the community. Appointments are always available on the day and the clinic is open seven days Dr Chander Hrstic has over 25 years of experience working in general practice and provides a wide range of services including women’s health, men’s health, children’s health and childhood immunisations, travel vaccinations, management of chronic diseases, mental health issues and minor procedures to name a few. Dr Deborah Tse has now joined Beacons-
Braces and Invisalign Early treatment for kids to avoid braces.
www.smilesfirst.com.au Thursday, 5 November, 2020
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STAR NEWS 19
NOW SELLING - BOOK YOUR PRIVATE INSPECTION TODAY
PAKENHAM 45 Timberline Parkway
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Buyer Enquiry Range $450,000 - 490,000
Buyer Enquiry Range $620,000 - 650,000
UNDER OFFER
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If you have been considering selling, now may be the right time. We have registered buyers waiting.
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Thursday, 5 November, 2020
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FOCUS ON … REAL ESTATE
A LIFESTYLE OF CONVENIENCE AND STYLE
LOOKING for that first home or investment property? Stop looking, we have found it. Great location in the sought-after Arcadia Estate we present for sale this modern and young home situated close to all amenities.
This little beauty ticks all the boxes being only 13 months old and built by well-known builder Premier Builders Group. This well presented home provides 2 generous sized bedrooms, one being the master bedroom with walk-in robe, the secondary bedroom features a built-in robe
which are both serviced by the two way main bathroom and separate toilet. To the rear of the home you are welcomed by an inviting open plan kitchen, meals and integrated living room with access to the sensational low maintenance yard. The impressive kitchen boasts nothing
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#stayhealthy |
STAR NEWS 21
NEWS
In the eye of the storm By Jessica Anstice Pakenham has been listed as one of the worst storm hotspots in the state by SES and insurance company AAMI. With a wetter than usual spring and summer expected due to a La Nina, Melbourne’s south east has been revealed as the state’s worst storm affected region. In Pakenham, combined with Mornington, Mount Martha, Mount Eliza and Frankston, the insurance company recorded 1455 claims. In 2019, Pakenham SES responded to just over 350 storm related request for assistance. This year, the volunteer group has attended more than 420 requests. “October to March is generally the busiest period with every likelihood that number could reach over 500,” Pakenham SES volunteer Shayne Honey said. “With more residents moving to Casey and Cardinia, naturally we are getting more calls for assistance.” While many call outs are unavoidable, like trees down on roads and tiles moving in heavy winds, Mr Honey said 20 percent of call outs could be avoided with some easy to do actions. Actions include moving cars away from trees in high winds, tying down loose objects such as trampolines, and conducting easy home maintenance like cleaning gutters. “Gutters filled with dirt or tree leaves fill with water faster with water dangerously moving towards a low point in ceilings causing water to pool near light fittings and ceilings to collapse,” he explained. AAMI’s head of home claims Victoria Craig White said with extreme weather becoming more frequent and severe, especially as the state heads into the warmer months, it’s vital residents take the time now to prepare their properties.
While many call outs are unavoidable, like trees down on roads and tiles moving in heavy winds, Mr Honey said 20 percent of call outs could be avoided with some easy to do actions.
In 2019, Pakenham SES responded to just over 350 storm related request for assistance.
“Simple things such as clearing leaves from gutters, downpipes and checking the condition of the roof and replacing loose or cracked tiles can make a big difference in preventing flooding and water seeping into the house,” he said. “Storms are unpredictable and can happen anywhere and without warning, so Victorians should start doing general maintenance and preparation works now before it’s too late.”
vulnerable neighbours, to check on them before and after a large storm.” SES suggests residents check their insurance policies are current and adequate. It is recommended a home emergency plan is put in place and an emergency kit is always readily available. Residents should also clear their backyards and gutters, and trim trees and overhanging branches.
SES volunteer Phillip Munslow said that when a storm hits it’s important to put the safety of yourself and others first. “We always say to people that the safest place to be in a storm is indoors,” he said. “If there are strong winds it’s important to tie down loose items such as trampolines, umbrellas and outdoor furniture and try to park the car undercover if you can. “It’s also important if you have elderly or
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In Pakenham, combined with Mornington, Mount Martha, Mount Eliza and Frankston, the insurance company recorded 1455 claims.
22 STAR NEWS
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Thursday, 5 November, 2020
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STAR NEWS 23
Professional Services
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Ready and raring to go By Nick Creely Casey-South Melbourne is just a matter of weeks away from welcoming Kingston Hawthorn to Casey Fields for the highly-anticipated opening round of the Victorian Premier Cricket season. And the excitement within the club is palpable. Now back at training, and looking to build on last season under new captain Michael Wallace and highly-regarded coach Brian Keogh, and as well to collectively improve and develop its talent in the lower grades, the Swans simply can’t wait for that first ball to leave the bowler’s hand on Saturday 28 November. The Swans are expected to have a somewhat different, but exciting new-look this season after the departure of some of its first XI players, with a potential shift of batting positions and some new faces in the bowling department, as the club gears up for a full one-day season. It’s a format coach Brian Keogh believes the club is very well suited for, and can do some genuine damage in with aggressive senior players such as Lachie Sperling, Jordan Wyatt, Dylan Hadfield and Nathan Lambden ready and raring to go as the Swans look to break back into finals cricket. “We were disappointed with our win-loss last year in the firsts - we think we can do much better than last season,” he said. “It’s an incredibly competitive competition, and any side can beat any side on their day, and we think if we do the basics longer than the opposition we can win as many as we lose. “And if you’re on the right ledger of the wins and losses then you will be thereabouts at the end of the season.” Keogh has been fairly active from a recruitment point of view this off-season, bringing in bowlers Callum Dodson, Isaiah Jassal and Harrish Kannan, while exciting top-order batsman Kasun Suriaratchie is back at the club after scoring 473 runs back in 2015/16. A clear focus has been to bolster that bowling department after finishing last for total wickets taken last season, with Keogh believing that despite the disappointment of 2019/20, the bowling group learnt a lot from some tough results and will bounce back.
Swans coach Brian Keogh believes spearhead Nathan Lambden is in for a big season. 202308 “Our improvement is going to have to come within this season,” he said. “We’ve talked a lot on Zoom about our game plan in detail, and there is a real focus on bowling in partnerships, and being able to trust your stock ball. “We’ve talked a lot about field settings and how to best protect parts of Casey Fields. “One thing we didn’t do as well last year is build pressure from both ends, so there’s a real commitment on that, bowling consecutive dot balls, and not just from one end, but both.”
Picture: GARY SISSONS
With the Swans’ bowling department to once again be led by quick Nathan Lambden - who like several of the Swans who live in Regional Victoria and have benefited from being able to train and play already this season - Keogh said that the spearhead is tracking beautifully for the opening round, while also pointing to fellow seamers Jackson Fry and recruit Cal Dodson as vital players. “I’m really bullish about Nathan, he’s fitter, doing a lot more work,” he said. “His form in white ball last year was really
good, his SuperSlam numbers were great, as was his 50 over stuff. “He’s well suited to the format we think “And I’m bullish about Jacko (Jackson Fry) and Cal Dodson too - I met with Cal a few months ago, and he’s fitter and stronger now. “He’s back of a length, bowls a heavy ball, so we’re looking forward to seeing how he goes.” The Swans welcome the Hawks to Casey Fields on Saturday 28 November, with the match to begin at 11am.
Cougars are on the prowl on the eve of the new season By Lance Jenkinson Shaun Surtees is set to be rewarded with a two-year contract extension after an encouraging start to his coaching career with Berwick City Cougars in the Baseball Victoria Summer League Division 1 last season. Surtees led the Cougars to a 12-13-1 record in his first summer in charge, finishing just a game-and-a-half out of the finals in the club’s second season in the top flight. Surtees, who has enjoyed a 24-year association with Berwick City, said a new deal with the Cougars was “as good as done”. He looks back fondly on what he and the Cougars achieved last season. “I was really pleased with the result at the end of the season,” Surtees said. “We weren’t going in with any delusions of grandeur by any means. “Our goal that we set as a coaching staff after I was appointed was let’s figure out how we can maintain our position in Division 1 - obviously being the premium standard of baseball. “We wanted to compete every week.” It was a rollercoaster ride for Berwick City supporters last summer. The Cougars enjoyed a honeymoon period in Surtees’ first season, before sputtering around the Christmas period. They rounded out the season in impressive fashion, building some confidence heading into what should have been a positive off-season - had it not been interrupted by Covid-19. “We had a good start to the season and then hit a rough patch leading into Christberwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
Coach Shaun Surtees is looking forward to the new season with the Berwick City Cougars. Picture: SUPPLIED mas, so we had to have a good, hard look at ourselves because we lost a few games we weren’t anticipating losing,” Surtees said. “After Christmas, we really hit our straps and ended up finishing only a game and percentage out of playing finals, so it was a really successful season overall.
“If you look at the premium standard we played at, and the results in the win-loss column, it was our most successful season as a club.” Berwick City has no intentions of making up the numbers forever. The Cougars have grand plans to rise to the top of Victorian baseball within the next three years. While theirs is a relatively young roster, Surtees understands the importance of the Cougars getting a taste of finals action this summer if they are to stick to that timeline. “We still think, as a group, we’ve got a bit more learning to do playing in this division, but we’re certainly setting our sights on pushing for a title in the next two to three seasons,” he said. “Our goal for this summer is to play finals. “We had a lot of drive towards the end of last season - obviously being that close to the finals. “That’s a real motivator for us.” The shortened pre-season is a doubleedged sword for Berwick City. The Cougars have lost a significant chunk of time to prepare, and that could have a detrimental effect on the young, developing players in the squad. “If this was a standard year, we would’ve done 14 weeks of work by now and we would’ve been five weeks into the season as well,” Surtees said. “It’s a big thing for baseballers because they like to get as much repetition as they can before we go out and start competing for premiership points.”
Where it could help Berwick City is that the lockdowns have left opposition clubs scrambling to fill the voids left by imports who most likely won’t be able to make it to Australia, due to travel restrictions. There is no such problem for the Cougars, who rely on the strength of their home-grown pitching roster, led by ace Craig Barnett, professional Cameron Gibbens, and youngster Matthew West. “The news that we’re getting is there’s not going to be any imports coming through to play in the competition this season,” Surtees said. “A few of the games that we lost last season were against quality import pitchers, so it’s going to test the depth of a lot of other clubs and maybe bring some clubs back to the field a bit more. “Hopefully that gives us the opportunity to win a few more of those close games.” If Berwick City is to break into the finals this summer, it needs to improve its run support for its pitchers. The Cougars scored the third-least amount of runs last season, frustratingly failing to convert when they had runners on base too often. “We found ourselves leaving a lot of runners on base last year,” Surtees said. “It was something we cleaned up eventually. “Towards the back end of the season we increased our runs for, and that was a byproduct of our success. “It was our second season in Division 1, so I can see us improving.” Thursday, 5 November, 2020
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Former Rays shine By Lance Jenkinson The football careers of Nick Haynes and Lachie Whitfield have a strange habit of intersecting. While they took vastly different pathways through the Dandenong Stingrays’ system Haynes returning as a 19-year-old after quitting football at 14, and Whitfield anointed as the next big thing almost from the outset - it all led to the same destination: selection at the AFL draft. The same club - GWS Giants - read out the names of Haynes and Whitfield, albeit in different drafts. They linked up as teammates, with Haynes taking on a big brother approach with Whitfield when he first arrived, and both became vital members of the GWS team. It is only fitting that Haynes and Whitfield would share the Giants’ highest individual honour, the Kevin Sheedy Medal, in 2020. Haynes, the older of the two at 28, has long been one of the AFL’s most dependable defenders. It is the elite traits in his game - intercept marking and rebounding out of defensive 50 that have elevated him to club champion status. Who better to shine a light on Haynes’ career than Whitfield, the 26-year-old who has looked up to him from the time they were teammates as teenagers with the Stingrays. “To watch him go underrated for a long time and not get the respect he deserved sort of irked me a bit, so it’s an amazing honour to be able to share this with him,” Whitfield said. “I couldn’t be happier. “I’m probably more glad we’ve shared it [the award] than anything else.” The medal was the mark of respect that Haynes’ career deserved.
He has evolved into a great leader for the Giants, but he knows it is a two-way street, benefitting from the systems and people in place at the club. Haynes is able to pass on his knowledge because the likes of Phil Davis and Heath Shaw were willing to guide him in the right direction. “It’s a great honour being at his club,” Haynes said on the night of the best and fairest. “The footballer I’ve become wouldn’t be possible without a lot of people in this room and a lot of people that have left this room as well. “I’m forever grateful for all those people that have helped me along the way, the coaches, the backline with Phil [Davis] and ‘Shawry’ [Heath Shaw]. “Congratulations ‘Shawry’ on a wonderful career, you’ve helped me so much in my football, as well as Phil Davis.” Haynes has unfinished business with the Giants. After playing in a losing grand final against Richmond in 2019, the fire burns in the belly to get back to the biggest stage of all. “I’m really looking forward to the years to come because we’re a successful club and we’re going to be a successful club into the future,” he said. “We’ve got the people, we’ve got the heart and we’ve got the culture, so I’m really looking forward to the next few years and playing finals footy and winning that premiership.” Whitfield took out a historic second Kevin Sheedy Medal. He, too, remarked about how bright the future is for the Giants - one he wants to see a flag in. Being the elder of the two Stingrays, Haynes had a big impact on Whitfield from the mo-
ment he arrived in Sydney - something that Whitfield has appreciated. “We’ve got a long history together [from the] Dandenong days,” Whitfield said. “Coming up here and taking me under the wing as soon as I got here... he was definitely a comforting factor for me.” Haynes did not need long to be convinced of Whitfield’s potential - only one training session, actually. “Whitfield was 16 at the time, a little chubby gut he had, and I thought this kid is no good, surely,” Haynes said. “Then I saw him out on the training track and he was unbelievable. “I knew from the first training session he was going to go number one draft pick. “When he was first drafted to the Giants, I was thrilled to have him there because I knew the player he was going to be and the player he was going to become.” Giants coach Leon Cameron paid tribute to the pair of former Stingrays on their outstanding 2020 seasons. “Nick has been a stalwart of our backline for years now and has always been incredibly highly-valued internally with two top-five finishes [in the Sheedy Medal] before this year,” he said. “He’s once again taken his game to another level this year and thoroughly deserves the accolades that have come his way. “Lachie became the first player in our history to win two Sheedy medals after another ultra-consistent season. “Taking on an official leadership role ahead of this season shows his development off the field and on the field. “We saw Lachie continue to show his class and work rate across the entire season.”
These Doves are soaring in the NPL By Lance Jenkinson If you were framing odds for the first coach to be sacked from NPL 3 soccer next season, Doveton’s Tony Saunders would be 100-1. Saunders is so highly-rated by his president Daniel McMinimee and has an impeccable record over the past three years that it would take one of the most dramatic capitulations by the Doves to unseat him. “There’s absolutely no pressure on Tony,” McMinimee said. “We know we’re batting above our belt now and we’re happy that he still wants to be there and have a crack at it. “He gives 100 per cent and that’s all that we expect from our coaches.” Saunders has worked wonders for Doveton since arriving four years ago. After narrowly missing out on promotion from State League 2 in his first season, he rectified that by bouncing back in 2018 with a promotion-title double. Last year, Saunders did what most felt would be impossible for a side not willing to spend beyond its means - earning consecutive promotions with a second-placed finish in their first crack at State League 1. It was an incredible feat for Doveton, a smaller club when compared to some rival teams in the division and the neighbouring clubs. “We were rapt to be promoted again,” McMinimee said. “I thought it would’ve been a bit of an eyeopener in State 1 because you’re up against some decent teams, but we got off to a great start and ended up finishing second in the end, only a point behind Nunawading.
“The amount of money we think Nunawading is spending down there with all the former A League superstars, compared to what we’re spending, would be chalk and cheese. “We basically jumped two leagues in two years.” Only a once-in-a-lifetime pandemic could halt the incredible momentum of Doveton. These are uncertain times for all clubs, and the Doves are no different. McMinimee is confident the Doves are tracking well off the field, thanks to financial relief from the City of Casey - which has picked up the club’s steep electricity bills for the past six months and waived maintenance fees - the loyalty of clubs sponsors and the discipline of the club’s committee. On the field, however, is more of an unknown proposition for the Doves. McMinimee is hopeful of the Doves picking up from where they left off before the pandemic, but that is not a given. “I thought we were on a reasonable footing going into this year, but obviously with Covid it’s all changed,” he said. “Hopefully we keep everybody on-board and we’re able to start afresh and get going again.” Doveton’s on-field recovery will come back to the Saunders effect. He may well have helped the Doves ride the bumps of the pandemic a little better because of his philosophy of building from within where possible in recent years. The foundations have been laid and all he needs is for players to recommit to the cause. “He’s put a lot of young kids in,” McMinimee said. “We’re unearthing one or two junior play-
ers every year and we’re not relying on buying players into the club.” At the height of Doveton’s glory years, it was a club that played in Victoria’s top-flight division. But the Doves could not sustain their success at the top due to financial mismanagement. They are slowly working their way back up the Football Victoria pyramid, but it will never be to the detriment of a stable future. “It’s taken us 20 years to bounce back a little bit [financially],” McMinimee said. “I’ve always said, if we need money to go up, we’re not going to have it. “We surround ourselves with people who want to play for our club and want to play for the shirt. “We’ve got a lot of kids playing through the competition and we give everybody an opportunity because we don’t have the big cash, but we’ve still done well the last two or three years. “We went bang, bang and got promoted two leagues in a row.” McMinimee is proud of what the Doveton committee has achieved to get the club on a firm footing. He is also grateful for the suite of sponsors who have backed the club and should now reap the rewards through added visibility in the NPL. “In comparison to some other clubs, we’re quite small, but we’ve got some really good sponsors and some smart people involved,” he said. “The sponsors have committed next year and want to be part of our club moving forward, which is great. “The club is pretty stable at this stage.”
Sam Radford has departed the Casey Demons. Picture: ADAM MCFARLANE
Radford steps down as coach By Nick Creely The Casey Demons are on the hunt for a new senior coach in 2021 in the new and expanded VFL competition, with the club confirming that Sam Radford has stepped down from the role. Radford, who took on the role as senior coach midway through 2019 and guided the Demons to six wins from nine game after taking over from Jade Rawlings as caretaker, will return to full-time teaching next year, but he will remain part of Melbourne’s AFL program in what will be his fifth season at the club. The highly-respected coach first joined the club at the end of 2016, where he served as an assistant coach at both VFL and in the Melbourne AFLW side and made a strong impact immediately. General manager of football operations Josh Mahoney told Melbourne Media that it was a shame that the club has lost Radford from its VFL program moving forwrard, but said that he would not be lost to football and Melbourne after accepting a new role within the football department. “An unfortunate consequence of the reduced football soft cap has meant that the role of Casey Demons senior coach will be made a part-time role,” he said. “Sam joined the club full-time this season as an AFL development coach, which included coaching Casey. The cancellation of the season saw Sam move back into teaching and perform a part-time role at the club. “After many discussions, Sam has decided to return to full-time teaching and accept a role at Melbourne in opposition strategy/education. “We will begin to seek candidates for the Casey Demons Senior coach role ASAP and look forward to participating in the revised second-tier competition for 2021. We are excited at the prospect of what this new league will offer talented footballers across the east coast of Australia.”
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Pearcedale dog’s big win By Molly Haines Hard Style Rico surprised everyone but his trainer Luckie Karabitsakos in Monday night’s Group 3 RSN Silver Bullet at The Meadows, paying a staggering $8.10 for the win. Jumping from Box 7 in the $25,000-to-thewinner race, Hard Style Rico was able to cross champion sprinter Simon Told Helen and lead with a blistering 5.02-seccond first section before stopping the lock in 29.46 seconds, just one-and-a-half lengths off the 525-metre track record. Simon Told Helen, who was the TAB favourite at $3.10, finished sixth lengths adrift in second place, with up-and-coming Gippsland star Dr Tucker third. “He is a great dog,” the Pearcedale-based Karabitsakos said of Hard Style Rico. “Credit to all the dogs in the field - it was a tough one and to do what he has done tonight just shows the quality of the dog, himself.” The Silver Bullet victory is Hard Style Rico’s
second group race victory after claiming the Group 2 Shepparton Cup in March this year in track-record time. The son of Bella Infrared and Bella Rico is trained, owned and was bred by Karabitsakos. “I am overwhelmed. He has been a great dog and hopefully he goes on with it,” he said. One of the quickest greyhounds in Australia, Hard Style Rico has won 19 races from 38 starts and amassed $210,000 in prize money. The brindle-coloured star is the first reserve in the $150,000-to-the-winner Group 1 Topgun, to be run on Saturday night at The Meadows. The RSN Silver Bullet was the opening group race of the 2020 Metropolitan Festival of Racing, which will see almost $2 million distributed across five nights of greyhound racing in November at The Meadows and Sandown Park. Go to grv.org.au for more information, and watch every Victorian greyhound race live and free by downloading the Watchdog app, or visit watchdog.grv.org.au.
Hard Style Rico took out the RSN Silver Bullet in an electrifying 29.46 seconds over the 525 metres.
Trainer Luckie Karabitsakos gives the thumbs up after Hard Style Rico’s win. Pictures: COURTESY OF CLINT ANDERSON
Premier Cricket locked in to start later this month
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QUIZ NUMBER 1738 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20.
WHICH woman won the 2020 Australian Open tennis title? AT which English course did Greg Norman score his world matchplay golf win in 1986? WHO trained 2013 Melbourne Cup winner Fiorente? WHICH Australian swimming great starred in a movie with Tab Hunter and Fabian? WHICH Australian tennis star retired in 1977 and was elected to the International Hall of Fame in 1979? WHICH English soccer club is known as ‘The Hammers’? WHAT is the term for the discs in lawn bowls which show the biased sides on the bowls? WHICH horse won the Melbourne Cup in 1932 and 1934? WHAT does a yellow flag indicate in motor racing? WHICH Queensland town produced cricket Test fast bowler Craig McDermott? WHICH well-known British politician won the 1969 Sydney - Hobart yacht race? HOW many white balls are there in a game of billiards? WHAT horse dead-heated for third place in the Caulfield Cup and then won the Melbourne Cup ten days later? WHAT movie role did Johnny Weissmuller take on after swimming for the United States in the 1928 Olympics? WHICH boxer won the Australian, Empires and world featherweight titles? WHICH leading jockey rode the winner of both the 1977 Melbourne Cup and the 1978 Caulfield Cup? WHO was the first Australian wicket-keeper to play in 50 cricket Tests? WHAT colour shirts do referees wear in American football? WHICH Tasmanian basketballer was top scorer for at the 1980 Moscow Olympics? WHICH Australian female runner won three gold medals at the 1974 Commonwealth Games?
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Cricket is back! The Victorian Premier Cricket men’s competition will officially kick off on Saturday 28 November, with the Women’s competition to begin a week earlier, on Sunday 22 November. After what has been a tough off-season for clubs and competitions alike across the state, Cricket Victoria confirmed last Thursday that its top club competition will now begin the process of training and preparation for what is going to be a highly anticipated, albeit much different looking season. In the 2020/21 men’s season, there will be 17 one-day matches in the firsts and seconds played across the home and away season, including a match on Australia Day. With several clubs impacted by a high number of players who live more than 25 kilometres from their home ground and some in Regional Victoria, extra time has been given for clubs to train together as groups before the season, as well as extra time for council and clubs to manage preparation of centre wickets and allow for any impacts due to the weather. In the thirds and fourths, there will be no Australia Day clash, in part to avoid a clash with the Under 18 Female Premier matches being played on that day, and to reduce the workload of players taking part in the Under 16 Male matches on the following day. This means that these two grades will play a 16-match one day season, with the played round one fixture removed. The Women’s competition, which will start the weekend earlier, will be played across 14 rounds with finals in the first and
second XI. In the newly developed third XI competition, there will be a 10-round season, with a longer break over the Christmas period and an earlier season finish. Due to not having the option of playing Saturdays, moving the round one date later was not preferred, with a potential Australia Day clash not viable due to clashes with representative matches. This means that the women will finish their finals series before the men and minimise the overall number of matches played in late March/early April, and therefore avoiding an Easter Sunday reserve day. Cricket Victoria CEO Andrew Ingleton said that the announcement was a positive step forward in cricket getting underway this summer. “It’s fantastic that we can now look forward to a Covid-Safe Premier Cricket season beginning later in November,” he said. “I’d like to thank all our stakeholders who have worked so constructively with us in very challenging circumstances. “I believe we’ve reached a fair outcome that will allow us to play as much cricket as possible while accommodating the obvious impacts arising from this year.” Cricket Victoria competitions manager Darren Andrerson thanked clubs for their patience. “The Premier Cricket already has, and will continue to require flexibility from all clubs and players as we navigate through a Covid-19 environment during the season,” he said. “We will continue to work closely with stakeholders across the Victorian cricket community to ensure we reach the best solutions we possibly can in dynamic circumstances.”
ANSWERS: 1. Sofia Kenin 2. Wentworth 3. Gai Waterhouse 4. Murray Rose 5. Margaret Court 6. West Ham 7. The eyes 8. Peter Pan 9. Danger 10. Ipswich 11. Edward Heath 12. Two 13. Baghdad Note 14. Tarzan 15. Johnny Famechon 16. John Duggan 17. Wally Grout 18. Black and white stripes 19. Ian Davies 20. Raelene Boyle
By Nick Creely
Thursday, 5 November, 2020
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