News - Berwick Star News - 12th November 2020

BERWICK

Thursday, 12 November, 2020

summer2020

Outside the bOx Get ready for outdoor livinG

Cement yOur style ConCrete moves inside

BEACONSFIELD HOME TIMBER & HARDWARE 102-112 Old Princes Highway, Beaconsfield

Proudly supporting our local community 12467668-DL46-20

Phone: 9707 5055 Email: sales@beaconsfieldtimber.com.au Website: www.homehardware.com.au

FOCUS ON … HOME & GARDEN

A balanced dining room in the Retreat palette.

Stylist: JULIA GREEN, Photographer: ARMELLE HABIB Artworks By: CASEY FREEMAN ARTIST. AVAILABLE VIA GREENHOUSE INTERIORS

The Retreat palette.

Stylist: BREE LEECH Photographer: MIKE BAKER

RetReating into comfoRt FACED with global uncertainty, life as we know it is on hold.

Cut off from our normal freedoms and routines, home is now the epicentre of our lives where many of us work, study, eat, sleep and relax.

Technology has become more important than ever before as we rely on connection with the outside world. Yet at the same time we yearn to switch off so we can take a moment to ground ourselves, reflect and recharge.

“This global crisis has changed our relationship with our homes - not just on a practical level, the lines between our work and home have blurred beyond recognition.

This also affects us on an emotional level too,” says Andrea Lucena-Orr, Dulux colour and communications manager.

“We need flexible spaces that can multitask as spaces to conduct our professional lives and perform household tasks, however, at the same time we need our homes to provide balance, calm and a sense of comfort and security.”

In response, design trends for 2021 will reflect our desire for reassurance and strength, with nurturing palettes drawn from nature and furniture and decor that speaks of familiarity and comfort.

The Dulux Colour Forecast for 2021 comprises palettes inspired by nature along with moments of stronger colour to lighten the mood and brighten our outlook.

Retreat is a palette of warm whites, brown-based neutrals and dusty blues that conveys a sense of a soft luxury, alongside vintage-inspired tones of burgundy and

deep ocean blue.

“The Retreat palette feels tranquil and sentimental - reminiscing tradition, whilst hinting at better times to come,” says Lucena-Orr. If you’re not quite ready to take the plunge throughout the whole house, start with one or two small touches of colour.

You could paint your front door or create an accent wall in a room of your choice, and choose scatter cushions, bed covers or beautiful rugs that complement the palette for a refresh that feels cosy, safe and new.

% OFF

50

YOUR SECOND ITEM* TERMS & CONDITIONS APPLY*

ENZO 210CM DINING TABLE in clearmessmate/black leg.

RRP $1999

SKYE DESIGNER CHAIR in honey brown rattan.

RRP $599

STRATTON 3 SEATER SOFA CHAISE + HEADREST in cloudwhite fabric.

RRP $2799

BUY THIS GET 50% OFF* THIS

ASHTON 3 SEATER SOFA RRP $2649

in downtown mink fabric.

BUY THIS GET 50% OFF* THIS

DERWENT 180-280CM EXT. DINING TABLE in messmate.

RRP $2229 NOW $114.50 MARWAN 200CM DINING TABLE in acacia blonde.

6 OR 12 MONTHS INTEREST FREE

RRP $1429 NOW $714.50

AVAILABLE

NARRE WARREN | PH: 8560 1160 | UNIT 8 44 VICTOR CRESCENT, NARRE WARREN SUPER CENTRE | FIND YOUR NEAREST LOCATION OZDESIGNFURNITURE.COM.AU *See in-store or online at ozdesignfurniture.com.au/ozpromotions for more information.

12469902-SN46-20

2W STAR NEWS

|

Thursday, 12 November, 2020

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

FOCUS ON … HOME & GARDEN

Wicker adds lightness to an outdoor area.

Green thumbs may like to try their hand at a plant wall.

LIFE ON THE OUTSIDE

By Danielle Kutchel

Summer nights by the fire pit. pact on your budget.

Trendy and weatherproof concrete outdoor settings can be a little on the expensive side, and it’s up to you whether you want to splash the cash.

Then there is the look you want to achieve: a concrete setting might look out of place if you’re going for a beachy feel, while a wicker chair will help a balcony space feel airy and stylish. Or perhaps you’d like a soft transition from the indoor to the outdoor, in which case you’ll be able to find furniture that fits with the look of your house.

And it goes without saying to ensure that the soft furnishings you buy should be designed for outdoor use - you don’t want your best indoor cushion to get caught in the rain!

WINDOWS AND WALLS Outdoor areas often have a lot of open walls, which adds to the ambience - but in-

evitably you’ll want to cover them at some point.

Retractable blinds and awnings are easy to have installed, easy to use and guaranteed to keep the sun out of your eyes.

But did you know you can also get outdoor curtains? These waterproof and practical accessories add a much softer feel to your gazebo or entertaining space.

There are also some amazing things being done with wood in the form of clever lattices.

Local homemaker centres also sell a range of durable metal and plastic screens that add privacy and eye-catching decor.

If you’re a green thumb, why not try your hand at a living wall? Train climbing plants up the space to fill in the gap with lush green.

You can also cheat your way to greenery

12454119-NG37-20

AS we adjust to our new Covid-normal, it’s all about the great outdoors.

Tis the season for entertaining at home, a tantalising prospect after months in lockdown. Bringing the indoors outside is the perfect way to take advantage of all that a lazy Australian summer has to offer, while ensuring the safety and comfort of friends and family.

And the best part is, you don’t even need a large entertainment area to do it in.

There are a few things to think about though to keep things comfortable. Here are some of the most important: OUTDOOR FURNITURE These days, we’re spoiled for choice when it comes to outdoor furniture. Walk into any store, and you’ll be confronted with options to eat off, sit on and even sleep in!

Typically, outdoor areas are more casual than an internal formal living space - but of course it all depends on what you want the space to be.

For example, if you have a large family and are expecting to host all the summer dinner parties, a table and chairs set up might be the ideal option.

If you’re after a relaxing haven to enjoy those balmy evenings, something more casual might be the go: think hammocks, cosy sofas or scatter cushions and even benches.

Many benches and tables double as storage space - perfect for packing away table cloths and cushions, and keeping them safe from the elements.

Material is also an important factor to consider and can have a pretty drastic im-

with an array of fake hedging - simple, and in the moonlight, no one will know!

Think about the entrance to your patio too. From the house, how will your guests make their way outside?Make a statement with french, barn-style or bifold doors, or stay practical with a flyscreen to keep the house cool while keeping the bugs firmly in their place.

THE TRIMMINGS First up: bugs. The plague of the Aussie outdoors. Will you opt for citronella, or a bug zapper? There are some seriously stylish citronella candle holders around now, and bug zappers are no longer the big blue beasts of the past. You can now find small, powered units that repel insects over a wider area - so you can enjoy your meal in peace, rather than making a mad dash back inside for the fly spray!

If you’ve got the room, a fire pit is a great option for those long family catch-ups. Everyone loves sitting by the fire, and the options are almost endless, with a fire pit to suit any style - and many made locally or with recycled products. Plus, with a bag of marshmallows at your side, dessert is sorted.

Perhaps you’re a master chef who dreams of whipping up a delicious meal in your own private kitchen. Outdoor kitchens have become a thing in recent years, complete with massive bench space, wine bars and inbuilt cooktops. Of course, we don’t all have the room for that, but that doesn’t mean your dream is unattainable. You can do a lot with smaller appliances, like Webers and smokers. Be sure to allow space for these when you’re designing your patio, and you can’t go wrong.

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

Thursday, 12 November, 2020

|

STAR NEWS 3W

FOCUS ON … HOME & GARDEN

Tank you for The waTer WITH the weather bureau forcasting a wetter than normal spring and summer, now is a great time to think about installing a water tank to capture all that rain.

A tank provides many benefits, including lowering the use of mains water, helping with water restrictions, assisting in times of bushfires and preventing storm water runoff. However, before you shower yourself in these rewards there are several things to know and consider.

The most important thing to know is that setting up a tank is not a DIY task; a licensed plumber must install your tank and the installation must meet your water supplier and council’s requirements.

How does a tank system work?

Essentially, a tank collects rainwater from the roof. Usually a pump is connected, most often on the ground next to the tank, to pump the collected water from the tank to toilets, a washing machine and to outdoor taps.

What size is right for you?

The size of your tank depends on variables such as what you intend to use it for (e.g. toilets, washing machine, outdoor irrigation), your available space, annual rainfall, and catchment area, i.e. your roof dimensions. Talk to your plumber about what you’d like and find out what is permitted in your area from your water supplier and council. There are numerous online calculators available to give you a guide for the size you might require.

What material is best?

Tanks are made from concrete, plastic (polyethylene), fibreglass and steel. Concrete tanks are often stored below ground because they can handle a lot of weight.

A typical backyard set-up is a 1000L polyethylene, slimline tank that sits on a

concrete base. The polyethylene is UV stabilised so it lasts a long time outdoors. Polyethylene tanks provide good all-round features, though they can’t be recycled at the end of their life.

Fibreglass tanks resist corrosion, but because light can pass through them, they require a protective coating to reduce algae growth.

Steel tanks may be galvanised or stainless. These tanks are often used to store large amounts of water.

Above or below ground?

Above ground tanks are more common, but you can store a tank under a driveway or even beneath your home. Both below ground options are best installed in new builds. A tank that stores water in a bladder can also be used if there is space beneath your house or a deck.

Do you need a pump?

You’ll need a pump if you’re connecting your tank to internal piping and if you’re on flat ground. You may get away without a

pump if your tank sits high enough to generate adequate pressure by gravity. Pumps can sit on the ground (usually next to the tank) or in the tank. On-ground pumps last longer, but in-tank pumps are quieter.

If you just intend to use your tank to water your lawn, you may not need a pump at all. Though if you do employ a pump, you can incorporate a pop-up sprinkler system.

The best spot for a tank Consulting a plumber is essential to ensure the right placement for a tank. Keep in mind though, you want to minimise plumbing work and maximise the catchment area of your roof. You’ll also need outdoor power for a pump. Lastly, it’s best to place a tank in a shaded area to avoid deterioration of the construction material.

- Article courtesy Lawn Solutions Australia

WE KNOW TIMBER WE KNOW HARDWARE WE KNOW BUILDING MATERIALS 421 princes hwy, officer FOR QUOTES CALL:

5943 2371

TIMBER, HARDWARE AND BUILDING MATERIALS FOR TRADESPEOPLE AND DIY-ERS DECKING SLEEPERS STRUCTURAL TIMBER ROOFING MATERIALS CUSTOM WOODMACHINING & PROFILE REPLICATION WE DELIVER TO ALL AREAS check us out online

VANSTEENSELTIMBERS.COM.AU 12469122-HL46-20

4W STAR NEWS

|

Thursday, 12 November, 2020

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

FOCUS ON … HOME & GARDEN

Keeping your cool

By Danielle Kutchel THERE’S no doubt that summer is in the air. It’s in the scent of freshly mown grass, the warm kiss of the evening sun, and the sizzle of barbecues as families give up cooking inside to get a little bit more from the seeminly endless day.

No doubt you’ll want to spend more time eating, drinking, entertaining and enjoying life outside this season, and there’s plenty to be done as we come into the sunniest months to get your garden into tip-top shape.

Mulching is a vital task for summer as it helps keep your precious plants moist and thriving during the hottest months of the year. Mulch will stop your soil from drying out in the sun, and also doubles as a barrier against pesky weeds. Plus it’s one of the easiest and quickest garden jobs, with a payoff you can see. There are many varieties of mulch on the market now, from sugarcane to straw, and each has its benefits.

An organic mulch made from natural materials may also help feed your garden as it breaks down over time - ask at your local garden centre to find out which one is best for your purposes. Once you’ve chosen the mulch you need, apply it in a layer around your plants of around two to four inches deep. Remember to leave a gap around the stems of your plants though as mulch that is pressed up against stems can cause your plants to rot.

Like humans, plants need hydration. And again, like us, they get thirsty in the heat.

You may want to invest in a watering system for your garden. Automatic sprinklers are great for the time poor as it’s really a set-and-forget type of thing. Beware of over-

Mulch around your precious crops now to preserve moisture and keep weeds at bay.

Think about how you will water your garden this summer. watering though in case of summer storms - unlike manual watering, your automatic system doesn’t know that you’ve had heavy rain! Mapping out your garden and its various sections will help you determine what sort of irrigation system you need. For a simple lawn, an old-fashioned sprinkler may do the job just fine; for plants, drip irrigation is a good option with the added benefit of not wasting any of our precious liquid gold. Drip irrigation is particularly

Colourful summer vegetables.

good for veggie gardens.

Speaking of vegetables, who doesn’t love a crisp, cool salad on a hot day? Summer presents a bounty of the fruits and vegetables we all love: zucchinis, tomatoes, capsicums, silverbeet and more. Most are pretty easy to grow whether in pots or proper beds, requiring nutrient-rich soil and sun.

It’s not too late to plant your summer crops - or even to get ahead on autumn delights like pumpkin.

Of course, in Australia summer means Christmas - and who doesn’t love the twinkling of Christmas lights! It’s well worth spending a day plugging and clipping in these little sparks of joy - come night time, you’ll be in for a treat! If you’re worried about power costs or the environment, there are plenty of festive solar options now that take advantage of the Aussie sun and still look gorgeous once the sun goes down.

12469532-CG46-20

We’ve made changes for the data-lovers in Narre Warren South.

Craving more gigabytes? Your local experts from Telstra Store Casey Central can help connect you to more data than ever before on our new month-to-month mobile plans.

Call the team at Telstra Store Casey Central for safe ways to shop.

400 Narre Warren - Cranbourne Road, Narre Warren South Close to Aldi

03 9702 0089

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

Thursday, 12 November, 2020

|

STAR NEWS 5W

FOCUS ON … HOME & GARDEN

Rising fRom the concRete jungle CONCRETE has long been a go-to material for the building industry.

It’s weathered the elements since ancient times - proving its strength, durability and versatility.

Its usage worldwide, ton for ton, is twice that of steel, wood, plastics, and aluminium combined, according to Wikipedia.

But what was once confined to the urban landscape is shirking its concrete jungle tag and expanding into our homes and hearts.

Everything from polished concrete floors to benchtops, light fittings and accessories is taking on a cement hue. There’s even special effect paint to give your walls a roughstrewn look in place of the real deal.

As an exterior cladding concrete is aesthetically pleasing but it brings with it a range of other benefits that are making it a popular choice among home builders and renovators.

Apart from the fact that it’s strong, concrete is low maintenance, sound proof and can withstand our harsh elements such as rain, wind and fire. It’s also termite-proof.

Depending on the look you’re aiming for, concrete walls can be left natural, if you do decide to paint them they only need to be repainted every five to 10 years.

Another key benefit of concrete in housing construction is it’s high thermal properties. I can absorb heat in the warm weather and release it during cooler periods - helping reduce energy costs.

Polished concrete floors provide much

of the same benefits as far as durability, maintenance and life span, and there are a variety of colour and texture effects to personalise the look.

It can be cold underfoot, particularly in winter, but so too can floor tiles.

Interior concrete walls can bring modern, clean lines to a home.

Clad an entire room in it for an almost industrial vibe, or use it as a stand out feature wall.

If you’re concerned about having to live with concrete floors or walls long past the

trend’s use-by date, there are less permanent, cheaper alternatives to bring a touch of the natural element inside.

Concrete table and bench tops are popular at the moment and look beautiful juxtaposed with timber cupboards or table legs.

Try a concrete light fitting to bring an edgy look to the kitchen or as a feature in a hall way.

Candle holders, plant pots, lamps can all be used to bring concrete in to your interior design and can easily be replaced if you tire of the look.

It’s the weather for gardeners!

Stihl Shop Hallam have you covered We have a large range of everything for your gardening needs. Chainsaws, Brush Cutters, Lawn Mowers and Chipper Shredders. Petrol, Electric and Battery options to suit every property!

4/261 Princes Highway Hallam Ph 9702 4764 www.stilhshophallam.com.au 6W STAR NEWS

|

Thursday, 12 November, 2020

12469102-DL46-20

Call in and talk to the team

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

12468742-SN46-20

G N I F O O AMB R 12468675-JW46-20

• Roof restorations • Roof repairs • Gutter cleaning • Roof painting • All work guaranteed

0421 289 458

Call now for a free quote M: 0432 648 112 Mention this AD for 10% off REC 27404

12469275-CG46-20

Ambroofing@hotmail.com

Residential | Commercial | Industrial Urgent Emergency Electrician

WE ARE AVAILABLE 24/7

0404 434 491 ✉ info@novagreenelectrical.com.au www.novagreenelectrical.com.au

Pakenham, Victoria

REC: 30269

12469684-NG46-20

Domestic and Commercial | Quality Workmanship We specialize in all aspects of timber flooring • Quality workmanship • Traditional Strip & Parquetry Timber Flooring • Engineered glued & Floating Timber Flooring • Supply and Installation • Sanding, Staining & Coating Opening Soon: 6 Loveridge Walk, Berwick Ph. 9796 1260 sales@apntimberfloors.com.au Call now for a No Obligation FREE QUOTE

SAPPHIRE FENCING CALL STEVE FOR ALL YOUR EMERGENCY PLUMBING NEEDS - Same day hot water repairs/replacements - Heating repairs/replacements - Burst/Leaking pipes - Blockages www.borzaplumbing.com.au

12469647-HL46-20

0431 140 988

• All Aspects of fencing • Colorbond • Timber • Pools and gates

Call Mike

0421 104 315

12468650-NG46-20

TERMITES, SPIDERS, FLEAS, WASPS, COCKROACHES, ANTS,, RATS, and MICE 12469804-HL46-20

WE CHASE THEM AWAY SERVICING PENINSULA AREAS. 1 250 CALL NOW FOR FREE ADVICE 0433 291

AIR CONDITIONING SPECIALIST

AU 47221 | REC 18654

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

12469818-NG46-20

CALL NOW! 9799 9150 Our Services: 9 24/7 Emergency Call Out 9 Service 9 Maintenance 9 Repair 9 Installation 9 Electrical

Gardening, Rubbish Removal, Mulching, Gutters Cleared, Landscaping, Expert Pruning, Hedge Trimming, Ride-on Mowing, Body Corporates Insurance / Workcover • Police Checked, Insured, OH & S Compliant

Domestic, Residential, Commercial

Air Conditioning Service $220 including Free Chemical Treatment/Clean.

Conditions Apply.

COVID-19 SAFE

12469627-JW46-20

APN TIMBER FLOORS

Thursday, 12 November, 2020

|

STAR NEWS 7W

12468207-CG46-20

OVER 55 COMMUNITY LIVING Call 1300 835 463

Downsize to a Healthier Life in Regional Victoria OWN COUNCIL HOME DUTY NO RATES OWN YOUR NO STAMP

OVER

8SO0LD% Call now to arrange a tour of our Stunning Homes and Vibrant Community.

Less than hour from Melbourne!

2 BEDROOM HOMES FROM ONLY

$299,000

Inc: Lock up garage, stone benches, Bosch appliances including dishwasher, double glazed windows, carpets, tiles & window furnishings, heating & cooling, Alfresco, landscaping & garden shed.

RESORT STYLE LIVING Beautifully Appointed 6-Star Clubhouse

Resort facilities include full size tennis court, bowling green, putting green, 6 star Clubhouse, heated indoor pool & spa, gym, billiards table, cinema, dance floor, library with computers, fully equipped kitchen, free wifi, free Foxtel & Netflix 9 Kingburgh Close Drouin VIC 3818 ❘ 1300 835 463 ❘ info@sanctuarylifestyle.com.au ❘ sanctuarylifestyle.com.au 8W STAR NEWS

|

Thursday, 12 November, 2020

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

BERWICK

Thursday, 12 November, 2020

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

/berwickstarnews

@StarNews_SE

40¢ Inc. GST

Savings now all bets are off

IBAC probes web of influence

VCE exams are back

The WGCA finally returns

PAGE 3

PAGE 4-5

PAGE 11

SPORT

SUBSCRIBE to our DIGITAL EDITION - It's FREE 12438485-CG03-20

Berwick remembers Berwick residents turned out to pay their respects to fallen veterans despite Covid restrictions on gatherings remaining in place.

Remembrance Day in Berwick was a far smaller affair than usual, but the emotion was heartfelt and palpable at the unofficial ceremony.

The cenotaph was adorned with poppies and wreaths paying tribute to those who sacrificed so much.

For more, turn to page 7

Attempt to kill

FOR ALL YOUR AUTOMOTIVE NEEDS Cnr Narre Warren Nth & Lauderdale Rds

Phone: 9705 8800

With Christmas fast approaching, Telstra Store Berwick will have great deals between 14 November - 31 December across a range of products from data plans, gaming accessories, mobile devices and more.

Call the team at Telstra Store Berwick for safe ways to shop.

12467881-CG46-20

NARRE WARREN

cause serious injury in circumstances of gross violence, recklessly cause serious injury in circumstances of gross violence.

He was also charged with intentionally cause serious injury, recklessly cause serious injury, criminal damage by fire and failure to provide pin code.

A 30-year-old Brooklyn woman has also been charged with attempted murder, intentionally cause serious injury and recklessly cause serious injury.

The trio fronted the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court and were remanded in custody.

A 40-year-old Rosebud man was released pending further inquiries.

According to Victoria Police, detectives had previously charged 11 people in January 2020 in relation to the incident.

Last minute Christmas gifts are sorted in Berwick.

12393619-EPJ30-18

A Narre Warren South man and a Hampton Park man have been charged with attempted murder, following a non-fatal shooting on a Mongols bikie member last year.

Four warrants were executed at properties in Narre Warren South, Hampton Park, Rosebud and Brooklyn on Tuesday 10 November, as part of an Echo Taskforce investigation into the August 2019 shooting.

Mongols bikie Rocco Curra, then 31, was allegedly shot four times in the head and torso while he sat in a parked car in a residential Bulleen street on 1 August last year.

Star News understands two men in a stolen BMW, allegedly fired 12 shots at Mr Curra, who survived the ambush after life-saving surgery.

The warrants, which were carried out by

members of the Echo Taskforce alongside officers from Southern Metro Divisional Response Unit, Special Operations Group, Critical Incident Response Team and the AFP National Anti-Gangs Squad, form part of the 15-month investigation.

A 28-year-old Narre Warren South man was arrested and later with charged with a string of offences including attempted murder, intentionally cause serious injury in circumstances of gross violence and recklessly cause serious injury in circumstances of gross violence.

He was also charged with intentionally cause serious injury, recklessly cause serious injury, criminal damage by fire, use of an unregistered handgun and failure to provide a pin code.

A 29-year-old Hampton Park man was also charged with attempted murder, intentionally

Eden Rise Shopping Centre, Berwick Next to outdoor playground 03 8786 7922

Four warrants were executed at properties in Narre Warren South, Hampton Park, Rosebud and Brooklyn on Tuesday 10 November, as part of an Echo Taskforce investigation into the August 2019 shooting.

SERVICE QUALITY ADVICE

INTEGRITY HONESTY PRICE

Curtains Honey Comb Blinds Swags & Tails Panel Glides 25% Off Holland Blinds Shutters Stock Curtain Blind and Venetians Pelmets Screen Fabrics Roman Blinds Motorised Outdoor Vertical Blinds Blinds & much more

217 PRINCES HWY, DANDENONG sharonscurtains@bigpond.com | Ph: 9794 9205

12451452-NG24-20

By Mitchell Clarke

12469596-LB46-20

2 STAR NEWS

|

Thursday, 12 November, 2020

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

IN BRIEF Police crackdown on Casey

Lockdown savings

By Jessica Anstice Casey City residents - who lost a whopping $98 million in the year to March - have saved an estimated $90 million while poker machine venues were closed through lockdown.

The Alliance for Gambling Reform believes the coronavirus lockdown has helped many gamblers see that there is life beyond the pokies.

Meanwhile over in Cardinia Shire, residents have saved in excess of $19 million while the pokies were offline for the same period.

Prior to lockdown, statistics revealed that from March 2019 to March 2020, Cardinia Shire residents lost about $21 million to poker machines.

With entertainment venues reopening, the Allience for Gambling Reform holds major concerns for residents after seeing an increase in poker machine harm in other states post lockdown.

“Victorians saved more than $1.8 billion from being lost to poker machines while in lockdown,” Alliance for Gambling Reform Chief Advocate, the Rev Tim Costello said.

“These savings have been nothing short of extraordinary in some council areas, such as Casey savings well over $90 million. That’s money that will have circulated in their local economy at a time when it has been most

Cardinia Shire residents have saved in excess of $19 million while poker machines have been closed through lockdown. needed.

“But it’s not just the financial impacts on local economies that have been so remarkable; gambling harms people and families on a daily basis, and there will have been lives saved and

massively improved while poker machines were shut down. Those positives can’t be underestimated.”

Mr Costello commended the Victorian Government as the only one in the country to implement a staged reopening of poker machines, critical to avoiding the wave of harm seen in other states.

“We’re glad there are such tight restrictions on how poker machines can operate, and how many people can use them right now, both from a Covid point of view and for harm reduction,” he said.

“We’re hopeful the Victorian Government will learn from this experience and recognise how much it has helped people to have poker machines off.

“It would be a real loss if things returned to so-called normal at the end of this in terms of gambling harms in Victoria.”

According to the Alliance for Gambling Reform, Victoria has the longest opening hours in the country, at up to 20 hours.

The organisation hopes to see the government commit to permanently reduce operating hours to 10am to midnight.

“10am to midnight is a much more sensible and safe approach while still allowing plenty of opportunity for gambling.”

Group sought over car park attack Police are seeking public assistance to identify four men after an alleged criminal damage and unlawful assault incident in Hampton Park on Saturday 15 August 2020.

At approximately 5.55pm, the men allegedly had a verbal altercation with the victim in a Hampton Road shopping centre car park.

One of the alleged offenders knocked the victim’s phone out of his hand and the group stomped on it, causing damage. The victim picked up the broken phone and fled.

Another alleged offender reportedly chased after him and physically assaulted him before the group fled.

Police have released images of four men whom they believe may be able to assist in their inquiries.

The first alleged offender is perceived to be Asian in appearance with dark hair. At the time of the reported offence he was wearing a black hoodie with a white diamond logo on the front, white shorts, black shoes, and a dark coloured face mask.

The second alleged offender is perceived to be Asian in appearance with dark hair.

At the time of the reported offence he was wearing a dark coloured hoodie, light coloured tracksuit pants, black shoes, and a blue disposable face mask.

The third alleged offender is perceived to be Asian in appearance with dark hair. At the time of the reported offence he was wearing a white hoodie, maroon shorts, grey runners,

A two-and-a-half week police crackdown on dangerous driving has nabbed nine drink drivers and six drug drivers across the City of Casey.

The state-wide operation, which ran from 22 October to 8 November, coincided with two major public holidays and the easing of restrictions in Victoria.

The figures, obtained by Victoria Police, were relatively low compared to Cardinia, which saw eight drink drivers and a whopping 58 drug drivers nabbed over the operation.

Road Policing Command acting assistant commissioner John Fitzpatrick said across Victoria, 417 people were caught drink driving and 487 were found with drugs in their system.

He said road trauma was preventable, but it was important to focus on the task at hand when getting into the driver’s seat.

“This year has been a challenging year for all Victorians. To then lose a loved one as a result of road trauma is just devastating,” A/AC Fitzpatrick said. “Particularly as we head into the Christmas period, the feeling of loss is often felt so much more.”

Meanwhile, nine disqualified drivers, 26 unlicensed drivers and 65 unregistered vehicles were nabbed throughout Casey.

Six people were caught using their mobiles phones, while four weren’t wearing a seatbelt.

Almost 90 speeding offences were detected, compared to 220 in Cardinia.

Three cars were impounded and a further 16 fines were issued to people for disobeying signs or signals.

Operation Saturn ran from 12.01am on Thursday 22 October to 11.59pm on Sunday 8 November 2020.

Young girl found A 10-year-old girl was located safe and well on Monday night, 9 November, after she went missing from her Cranbourne North home.

The young girl, who reportedly suffers from a number of health conditions, was found around 10:40pm.

A large emergency services presence conducted an extensive search of the area. The Police Airwing, SES, local police units and the community all turned out to find the girl.

Witnesses needed The first alleged offender is perceived to be Asian in appearance with dark hair.

Pictures: CRIME STOPPERS

The second alleged offender is perceived to be Asian in appearance with dark hair.

The third alleged offender is perceived to be Asian in appearance with dark hair.

The fourth alleged offender is perceived to be Asian in appearance with dark hair.

and a light coloured face mask.

The fourth alleged offender is perceived to be Asian in appearance with dark hair.

At the time of the reported offence he was wearing a black hoodie, black tracksuit pants, black shoes, and a black face mask.

Police are appealing for witnesses to an alleged hit and run collision which left a 14-year-old boy with leg injuries in Noble Park North.

The teenager was riding his bicycle on Elonera Road around 1:40pm on Tuesday 3 November when he stopped at the intersection of Oakwood Avenue for a vehicle to pass.

It’s believed the vehicle also stopped at the intersection so the cyclist began to cross the road, however the vehicle accelerated and struck him. The driver is then alleged to have driven from the scene north on Elonera Road, making no attempt to stop and render assistance to the injured teen.

The boy was conveyed to the Dandenong Hospital with a suspected fracture to his ankle.

The vehicle involved is described as a gun metal grey Mercedes Benz SUV, possibly a GLE450 or similar, which is believed to have been driven by a Caucasian female with short dark hair.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Greater Dandenong Highway Patrol on 9767 7444 or contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

We empower young learners to take action, by nurturing their curious young minds.

Find out how our world class programs of the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program and expert staff in our Junior School and ELC can help your child flourish in our intimate learning spaces and classes.

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

12465118-DL42-20

Empowering curious young minds Non-Selective Entry | Non-Denominational Small Classes | Co-Educational ELC and Junior School Dedicated Senior Girls and Boys Schools

StMargarets.vic.edu.au Thursday, 12 November, 2020

|

STAR NEWS 3

NEWS

IBAC INQUIRY

Cash ‘eased’ MP access

By Cam Lucadou-Wells The joke was apparently on a journalist inquiring about an ALP election fundraiser staged by property developer John Woodman.

In a secretly taped conversation played at an IBAC hearing, Mr Woodman and his hired ALP lobbyist Philip Staindl discuss an upcoming “negative” article in The Age on the eve of the 2018 state election.

The story was about to reveal the 2014 fundraiser at Crown Casino for MPs Martin Pakula, Judith Graley and Jude Perera, the IBAC Operation Stanton inquiry is told.

“The imputation (the journalist) is trying to create is that ... the function is to raise funds for the South East MPs, that is giving you undue access and influence to them,” Mr Staindl says.

“Yeah, which is exactly right,” Mr Woodman replies.

The pair laugh before Mr Woodman adds: “Well I wouldn’t say undue access.”

In the covert tapes heard by IBAC, Mr Staindl tells Mr Woodman of how he “claimed ignorance” to the journalist.

He mentioned Mr Woodman’s company Watsons bought four tickets to the event - but didn’t tell the reporter that associates Wolfdene and Schutz Consulting may have both bought four, he says.

Villawood Properties executive director Tony Johnson was also at the event, he says.

Mr Woodman struggles to recall - remembering a fundraiser that auctioned off a helicopter ride.

“Geeze we’ve run so many of these things,” he says.

“Yeah I know, I felt like saying ... ‘F***.

You’ve only found out about one?’” Mr Staindyl says.

“Ha, ha, yeah, what about the other twenty?” Mr Woodman says, laughing.

John Woodman joked that he hosted election fundraisers for MPs to gain “undue access”.

Former Cranbourne MP Jude Perera “spilled his guts” to a reporter, an IBAC inquiry hears.

Mr Staindl tells Mr Woodman that the story wouldn’t have “leaked” if not for then-Cranbourne MP Mr Perera “spilling the beans”.

“Jude just spilled his guts.”

An ALP life member, Mr Staindl tells Mr Woodman he spoke to Mr Pakula the night before.

“The reason I spoke to (the journalist) was because Pakula had told him it wasn’t a Watsons function, it was a Staindl function and I’m happy to wear that,” Mr Staindl says.

“So make sure we hold to that line because that particular function was just a Watsons function.”

At the IBAC hearing on 10 November, Mr Staindl said Mr Pakula was a “political acquaintance” rather than friend.

Mr Staindl agreed he misled the journalist.

He was trying to “minimize the political fallout” from a “potentially damaging story”, he said.

“You were talking about lying, weren’t you,” counsel assisting the inquiry, Michael Tovey, said.

“I was putting a particular slant on the story,” Mr Staindl said.

Mr Tovey said Mr Woodman was laughing at the “exactly right” line because “why am I paying all this money if I’m not getting undue access?”

Mr Staindl said he didn’t “entirely” agree.

“People like Martin Pakula are smart enough and sensible enough to be able to balance different influences on them in making a decision, and as a senior minister I couldn’t imagine him being persuaded or swayed in a particular direction by virtue of someone who has contributed money to candidates or MPs associated with him.”

Mr Tovey said “we’re talking about access, we’re talking about the opportunity to persuade”.

“Possibly,” Mr Staindl said.

“At the end of the day, if a minister doesn’t want to see someone, they won’t.”

The IBAC inquiry is investigating allegedly corrupt dealings involving Mr Woodman and Casey councillors.

It is also exploring Mr Woodman’s links with State Government Ministers and South East MPs.

Judith Graley

Martin Pakula’s 2014 election campaign received funds from a developer-staged event at Crown Casino.

The inquiry heard that Mr Woodman donated more than $150,000 to Labor ahead of the 2018 election, including $20,000 to the successful Cranbourne candidate Pauline Richards and $20,380 to then-Attorney General and Keysborough MP Martin Pakula.

Mr Pakula has disputed the size of the donation.

The hearings are ongoing.

YOU’RE MORE SUITED THAN YOU MIGHT THINK NOW RECRUITING FOR OVER 3000 POLICE POLICE CAREERS 12468441-LB46-20

4 STAR NEWS

|

Thursday, 12 November, 2020

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

IBAC INQUIRY

Ex-mayor’s ‘support’

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Former Casey mayor Janet Halsall’s re-election campaign in 2008 was ‘assisted’ by developer John Woodman, according to his own internal memo tabled at an IBAC inquiry.

The then-mayor Ms Halsall had a “very strong” association with Mr Woodman’s company Watsons, Mr Woodman wrote in the memo in June 2008.

She had indicated “overwhelming support” for Mr Woodman’s quest for the inclusion of Brompton Lodge farmland within the urban growth area in Cranbourne West, he stated.

“Watsons are assisting Janet’s re-election in the forthcoming election (in) November 2008.”

The memo was addressed to landowner Peter Carpenter. Mr Woodman’s son Heath and lobbyists Philip Staindl and Geoff Leigh were copied in. The 100-hectare farmland was rezoned as a “logical inclusion” by the Liberal State Government in 2012.

At the IBAC Operation Standon inquiry on 10 November, Mr Staindl said Mr Woodman knew the ex-councillor “quite well”.

Mr Staindl denied having knowledge of Ms Halsall’s role at the time, despite being copied into the memo and named as a “political facilitator”.

“It doesn’t ring any bells.”

Ms Halsall was a Labor branch member when Mr Staindl ran as the ALP’s candidate for La Trobe in the 2001 federal election, he told the

inquiry.

“I think it was a couple of years after that she changed her political allegiance and joined the Liberal Party.

“So I had nothing more to do with her from that point.”

Ms Halsall had allegedly managed a Woodman-funded campaign for nine “friendly” core candidates and support candidates in the 2016 Casey Council elections. The relevation led to Ms Halsall to stepping down as a staffer in federal Liberal MP Jason Wood’s office.

Mr Staindl said he had “absolutely no knowledge of that”.

“What came out in the media ... I was quite surprised at the level of involvement.”

At the inquiry in December 2019, former Casey mayor, Liberal MP and later Woodman lobbyist Lorraine Wreford stated Ms Halsall and husband Bob Halsall managed the near$100,000 campaign.

Ms Wreford said the scheme was conceived

by Casey’s mayor at the time Sam Aziz, who is being investigated by IBAC for alleged corrupt dealings with Mr Woodman.

Campaign invoices were paid in a “covert” fashion, Ms Wreford said.

“It was definitely designed that the candidates didn’t know where the money was coming from ... apart from Cr Aziz.”

None of the elected councillors declared the funding, the hearing was told.

Janet Halsall, whilst mayor of City of Casey. 21305

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

$1m lobby success fee for ‘green wedge’ rezoning

By Cam Lucadou-Wells An ALP life member and lobbyist received a $500,000 success fee from a developer after 100 hectares of Cranbourne South farmland was rezoned for housing, an IBAC inquiry heard Philip Staindl’s clients included developer John Woodman who is under investigation

by IBAC over alleged corrupt dealings with Casey councillors.

Mr Staindl was first hired by Mr Woodman’s firm Watsons to lobby for the rezoning of Brompton Lodge in Casey’s Green Wedge.

In 2012, Mr Staindl and business partner Geoff Leigh shared a $1 million success fee.

Mr Staindl said his $500,000 was equivalent to a $6000 a month retainer over six years, he told IBAC. Such success fees were later banned in 2014, but he later learnt that Mr Woodman still thought the success-fee arrangement held.

Counsel assisting the inquiry, Michael

Tovey, asked about the pair’s discussion in March 2019 about Mr Staindl’s success fee being held by lawyers Maddocks.

Mr Staindl remembered a discussion with Mr Woodman in which he asked if the success fee was “still there”.

“My stomach sank. I thought I’ve got to end that.

“I reached a point in which I knew I couldn’t accept a success fee.”

By that time, Mr Staindl was aware of The Age’s reports on allegedly corrupt dealings between developers and Casey councillors.

In November 2018, he realised their quest for rezoning Cranbourne West industrial land for housing became “politically impossible” on the eve of a state election.

Planning Minister Richard Wynne deferred the matter - also known as Amendment C219.

At that stage, Mr Woodman’s entities had allegedly donated heavily to the State Government ahead of the election.

He was a platinum member of the ALP’s

corporate fundraising arm Progressive Business - the highest level of membership worth about $90,000, the inquiry heard.

It provided him and his associates’ access to group “workshops” with Government ministers as well as “forums” which were like “speed-dating” with multiple ministers.

A former ALP election candidate, Mr Staindl stepped down as PB president and director in 2010 and is no longer a member, he told IBAC. He agreed he’d advised Mr Woodman to become a PB member.

“But I didn’t know the quantum he paid.”

Mr Staindl said political fundraising was a “necessary evil”. Donors were provided an opportunity to “get in a room to put their case”.

PB was an opportunity to meet with senior politicians, but “certainly not a precursor to delivering an outcome”.

Since 2018, the State Government limited any entity’s donations to $1000 a year due to the “potential conflicts”, Mr Staindl said.

St Francis Xavier College

“So that was the last of the halcyon fundraising years?” Mr Tovey said.

“It may go down in history as that, yes,” Mr Staindl said.

He said he was aware of a meeting between Mr Woodman’s associates and thenRoads Minister Luke Donnellan about transport issues that “didn’t end at all well”.

He said meetings were sought with Treasurer Tim Pallas to talk broadly about development “stimulating housing activity”.

Under the state’s lobbyist code-of-conduct, lobbyists are required to act “transparently”.

Mr Staindl said lobbyists should be transparent with government officers, It would be a “broad reaching definition” to extend it to citizens knowing what was going on between government and lobbyists.

IBAC Commissioner Robert Redlich said that would mean there’s nothing in the code requiring transparency with the Victorian public.

Limited plac es available at o ur Officer Camp us Year 7 2021

Berwick, Officer, and Beaconsfield

St Francis Xavier College is a comprehensive, co-educational Catholic Secondary College that offers a broad range of curriculum from Years 7 to 12.

Our religious education and faith programs are designed to support each student to grow in faith by proclaiming the Gospel and invites all to share in the saving mission of Christ.

12469494-LB46-20

www.sfx.vic.edu.au

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

03 9707 3111

info@sfx.vic.edu.au 03 9707 3111 Thursday, 12 November, 2020

|

STAR NEWS 5

NEWS

OPINION

Man exposed

LENSCAPE

Police are appealing for public assistance following an indecent act in Endeavour Hills last month.

It is believed an unknown man approached the female victim whilst she was walking her dog in the Essex Park Conservation Reserve and exposed himself about 5pm on 21 October.

The victim ran home and was very distressed as a result of the incident.

The man police would like to speak to is described as of Indian appearance, approximately 5”3, of medium build with short brown hair. He was wearing a black jumper and grey tracksuit pants and was walking a light brown Staffy dog.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

Pakenham Berwick Cranbourne Drouin

5941 4888 9707 5755 5996 6822 5625 2571

www.davidwbull.com.au David W Bull Funeral Directors Provide understanding care and personal service.

1213066-EPJ04-16

Australian owned family business since 1979.

Mowvember is underway at Stihl Shop Hallam. 220647

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN Thumbs Up!

Thumbs Up!

WERE BACK OPEN!!!

To Kelly’s alfresco area. Great in the summer!

Glad the shops are finally open!

VISIT: WWW.HARRYSCLOTHING.COM.AU

Thumbs Down!

To the jerk in a red ute on the Princes Highway who nearly side swiped me causing me to swerve into the gravel by deciding to go in my lane despite me being next to him. He then sped off.

Thumbs Down!

To people still speeding on the Monash in the 80km/h zone!

Gift Vouchers Available

12464498-SN43-20

Ph: 9796 2777

starcommunity.com.au CONTACT US Phone: 5945 0666 ADVERTISING Visit starcommunity.com.au/advertise Email advertising@starnewsgroup.com.au Phone 5945 0666 EDITORIAL Email dailyeditor@starnewsgroup.com.au com.au

Published by Star News Group Pty Ltd ACN 005 848 108.

Publisher/Managing Director, Paul Thomas.

All material is copyright to Star News Group Pty Ltd. All significant errors will be corrected as soon as possible. Distribution PROUDLY numbers, areas and coverage are estimates AUSTRALIAN OWNED & only. For our terms and conditions please visit INDEPENDENT www.starcommunity.com.au

6 STAR NEWS

|

12452305-LN26-20

REAL ESTATE Email seren@starnewsgroup.com.au

Visit networkclassifieds.com.au Email sales@networkclassifieds.com.au Phone 5945 0600

To freedom again, finally!

Thumbs Up! To a whole week of 0 new cases!

Thumbs Down!

To the nightmare roundabout at Thompsons Road and Narre Warren Road. Sat in traffic for over 20 minutes trying to get through. This intersection is in desperate need of a set of lights.

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.

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK LATE ON FRI, SAT & SUN

9 Loveridge Walk, BERWICK

Thumbs Up!

SOCIALLY SPEAKING On Wednesday 4 November, a story was posted to the Cranbourne Star News Facebook page regarding the last parcel of land in Casey being sold to developers. Here’s how our readers responded online: Jay McDonald: That’s just great. Well done, Casey Council, pricing out our last farming landowners, and bringing in an extra 1400 homes. Our roads and public transport are already not coping.

Matt Norris: Hope you got a decent price dude. More houses is what we need plus the congestion and traffic.

Sarah Richardson: So basically more inappropriate development is on the agenda....

Sharon Aumann: Greed.

Hans Caspersz: His reasons for selling were varied, never mind the money.

Local artists celebrated at State meet-up The Minister for Creative Industries, Danny Pearson MP, was the special guest of honour at an on-line Creative Arts Forum organised

by Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas, Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards and Bass MP Jordan Crugnale.

The event was held on the evening of Monday 9 November and brought together local artists and community group representatives who had an opportunity to engage with the State Government on the issues most affecting them, especially the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

Creative industries have been one of the hardest hit sections of our community as their profession often relies on audiences, close contact during performances and indoor rehearsals.

All these activities are of concern to the health authorities in regards to spreading the coronavirus.

The Minister acknowledged the impact of the health advice on creative activities and assured the forum attendees that he will continue to raise the issues of artists and groups with health officials while requesting any possible options for further creative activities to be undertaken in a safe manner.

Thursday, 12 November, 2020

Local artists had their views and songs heard at the virtual forum.

The evening also featured musical performances from Berwick local Andrew Swift, whose recent album debuted at number one on the ARIA Australian Country Charts; popular Afghan artist and Cranbourne resident Taqi Khan Azra; as well as young and upcoming vocalist, Luro.

The State Government has announced $90 million to support the creative sector through

the coronavirus pandemic including $19 million for the music industry, $48 million for State-owned creative and cultural institutions and $13 million for non-government arts and cultural organisations.

Further information is available at: www.creative.vic.gov.au/coronavirus/creative-industries-q-and-as berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Berwick remembers them

By Danielle Kutchel Remembrance Day looked a little different in Berwick this year.

Despite calls from the RSL to mark the solemn occasion at home this year, socially-distanced onlookers gathered at the cenotaph at 11am on the 11th day of the 11th month to pay their respects to veterans.

On behalf of the Rotary Club of Berwick, President David Button and Secretary Sam McCurdy placed a wreath at the cenotaph prior to the ceremony’s commencement.

Chris McKenna, secretary of the Berwick RSL Sub-branch, then led the small crowd in readings.

The Last Post was played over loudspeaker as those assembled bowed their heads. Even people seated in cafes nearby or walking along the High Street stood and joined in the minute’s silence.

To conclude the ceremony, those present were able to place a wreath or poppy at the memorial. The RSL provided a box of poppies for placing.

Mr McKenna said the Covid restrictions on gatherings hadn’t been able to quash the community spirit of the day.

“Under the circumstances we couldn’t advertise it, we couldn’t invite people to watch.

That said, the small number that turned up to watch was very pleasing. They all followed the rules,” Mr McKenna said.

“They saw that as their need to be here. It’s not for me to tell them to go away.”

He said it was important to remember that the day is about veterans. The Berwick RSL is currently trying to reach out to local veterans who are not currently members, to provide any assistance they might need.

The Poppy Appeal plays a large role in how the RSL supports veterans, with all money raised going directly to those who need it.

“Some veterans are doing it tough at the minute, but we’re there for them,” Mr McKenna said.

“They just have to knock on our door, it’s open.”

After the service, Oliver Collins stepped forward with his mother Alyssa to place a poppy on the cenotaph.

Oliver took some time searching for the perfect spot, before standing back to admire the wreaths and poppies that others had laid down.

Ms Collins said she felt it was important to bring her son to the cenotaph today to learn about the sacrifice of veterans and to pay his respects.

The Poppy Appeal won’t be closed off immediately. Donations can still be made via https://berwickrsl.org.au/appeals/

The crowd begins to gather at the cenotaph.

Berwick RSL secretary Chris McKenna leads the crowd in a reading. 221028

Remembering those who sacrificed everything.

221028

Paying tribute to the fallen. 221028

Colourful wreaths adorn the memorial. 221028

Rotary Club of Berwick President David Button and Secretary Sam McCurdy placed a wreath at the cenotaph.

Oliver Collins and his mother Alyssa place a poppy on the memorial. 221028

The 11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month. 221028

12466427-CG44-20

It is more important than ever that we support our local eateries and shop local.

/BradBattinMP 5953 0216

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

Edward O’Donohue MLC LIBERAL STATE MEMBER FOR EASTERN VICTORIA REGION

5941 1112

edward.odonohue@parliament.vic.gov.au

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

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

Visit OPSM Berwick today Ph: 9707 5556

Visit OPSM Pakenham today Ph:5940 5858

*Excludes Chanel, Gucci, Oliver Peoples, eye exams, insurance and packages.

See staff for details. Offer ends 15/11/2020.

Thursday, 12 November, 2020

|

12462316-CG46-20

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 CORONAVIRUS.vic.gov.au Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

12469416-HL46-20

8 STAR NEWS

|

Thursday, 12 November, 2020

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Aim to turn lives around

By Danielle Kutchel Coming from a rough background, Calliopeia hadn’t given much thought to her future.

She grew up in government care, and began stealing cars at the tender age of 10.

Survival was top of mind: education, and a career, was not.

But a second chance from an unlikely source led her to turn her life around.

A police officer mentioned a course she might be interested in, with an organisation called Hand Brake Turn.

That pearl of wisdom seeded an idea in Calliopeia’s mind: perhaps, instead of stealing cars, she could work with them.

At the age of 14 she took up the course at the organisation’s Sunshine location, but it wasn’t long before she left.

“I didn’t take it so seriously, given my age.

I don’t think I was mature enough then,” Calliopeia admitted.

“And secondly, my life was chaotic. There was no way any kid in my position could have focused on education, whether it was mainstream or Hand Brake Turn.

“When the environment is chaotic, I’m not focusing on that, I’m focusing on what I’ve got to go back to home to and how to survive at the end of the day.”

Old habits caught up to her, and in her own words she “mucked around a bit more”.

“Then one day, I messed up again and I stole a car,” she said.

“And that was the last time that I did an offence.”

She left care and went back home without the government’s permission, determined to get her life back on track: she got clean and found her first job, and then, now ready for a change, went back to Hand Brake Turn, this time in Dandenong.

“The only reason I did it was because my head was straight again and I knew what I wanted to do - so I did it,” she said.

Calliopeia said the trainers and staff at Hand Brake Turn treated her with respect, earning her trust and building a relationship with her so that she could focus on her work.

“They’re interested in you,” she explained.

“They make you very engaged in what they’re doing and teaching you, and they connect in a way that everyone can understand.

“I wanted to do something good, I didn’t want to be looked at as the bad kid that steals cars, because that wasn’t me and I didn’t do it for that reason; I had personal reasons why I did what I did. It was nice to be able to come to a place where I felt safe and not judged,” she said.

Hand Brake Turn has been showing young people that respect - and the ropes of light vehicle mechanics - for 25 years.

The charity provides disadvantaged youth with practical, hands-on mechanical training, things that will stand them in good stead as they head out into the workforce and begin looking for employment and further training.

It’s a role that’s anticipated to be even more vital in the wake of the Covid-19 recession,

Calliopeia’s life was turned around when she discovered Hand Brake Turn. which has had a “particularly dire” impact on young people, according to a discussion paper by independent think tank Per Capita.

The organisation recommended that, coming out of the recession, the government should provide “a pathway out of minimumwage, insecure work”, such as procurement policies that help provide apprenticeship and traineeship placements for young people to

give them opportunities for their future Thanks to the opportunities afforded by Hand Brake Turn - and that police officer - Calliopeia believes she has found her calling.

She’s now looking for a role where she can complete her apprenticeship as a light vehicle mechanic.

“Without that policeman, I would’ve been on a completely different path,” she admitted.

She also hopes her story will serve as an encouragement to other young people, especially women, from the wrong side of the tracks to take a chance on their dreams and take the opportunities that come their way.

“Know that you’re not a bad kid,” she said.

“Just do it, because it might change something for you, it might make life less chaotic like it did for me.”

HAS YOUR SUPER FUND TAKEN A HIT DURING COVID-19?

12466817-JW43-20

Year 8 Starting in 2021

Property has always proven to be a safer, less volatile investment.

Talk to our experienced staff now to find out why.

rivercrest.vic.edu.au 03 9702 2595

safe-super.com.au 12469564-HL46-20

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

Thursday, 12 November, 2020

|

STAR NEWS 9

NEWS

Readers to have news say Newspaper readers across the south east are urged to have their say on the future of country media in Australia’s biggest survey on local news.

The survey, launched nationally this week, is part of the largest study of its kind in Australia, running for three years with almost $250,000 backing from the Australian Research Council, one of the Federal Government’s main competitive research funding agencies.

Deakin University, RMIT University and Country Press Australia - the peak regional media organisation, of which this newspaper

is a member - are leading the study.

The project’s lead investigator, Deakin Associate Professor Kristy Hess, said the future of local newspapers depended on support from local audiences.

“If you read your local newspaper, then it’s absolutely vital you fill in this survey to show your support for local news. We are depending on you,” she said.

“We want to hear your ideas and feedback on the role of country newspapers in these digital times. We want to know what the paper means to you and how it might improve

into the future.”

Project partner and Country Press Australia executive director Bruce Morgan said the project was as much about regional communities as it was about local media businesses.

“Local media outside metropolitan Australia is very much the journal of record for the towns and regions it represents,” he said.

“It is not exaggerating to say that, should we lose local media representation, it will impact not just on the fabric of those communities, but the very principles of democracy.

That is, the ability to record, champion, chal-

lenge and hold accountable.

“That is why this highly-credible, wellfunded research is vital to those communities and their future.“ The survey should take up to 10 minutes and will ask a range of questions that relate to readers’ views on local newspapers.

All participants have a chance to win one of 10 new-release Apple iPads.

The survey will run until the end of November.

Visit www.localnewsinnovation.org to complete the survey.

New law adopted to ensure Local Law is dropped

By Andrew Cantwell Casey Council has moved to dump its Local Law 1, governing meeting procedures and the use of the council’s common seal, to meet obligations under the new Local Government Act passed this year by state parliament.

The Local Law was made redundant by the adoption of new governance rules made under the new Act at a meeting of administrators on 18 August.

In a confusing move - in order to dump the Local Law - a new Local Law authorising the revocation had to be passed.

In passing the new revoking Local Law at their most recent meeting on Thursday 5 November, administrators explained the revocation of Local Law 1 was purely procedural, with regard to the arrangements now in place under the new Local Government Act. The plan to drop the Local Law was advertised through September and received two public submissions. It was also viewed 48

A new Local Law has been required to revoke the old Casey Local Law 1, on meetings procedure and use of the common seal. times on the council’s website, according to a report to last Thursday’s meeting.

Both submissions reported confusion around the revocation process.

Casey’s governance officer Rhys Matulis

explained in the report that the prescriptive process was confusing, but allowed little leeway. Rather, completing the revocation process would remove any further sources of confusion.

The report noted Local Law 1 was not likely to be replaced.

The revocation will come into effect once the new revoking Local Law is published in the Government Gazette.

NOVEMBER SPECIALS Half Price Watches 20% off any Jewellery Purchase

Specialising in designing, remodelling and repairing of Jewellery

Engineering

Building to commence in 2021.

Applications for Year 7 STEAM Academy places open until Friday the 20th of November.

Arts

INFORMATION AND APPLICATION FORMS AVAILABLE:

Mathematics

www.timbarrap9.vic.edu.au/ or Phone 9704 2744

Please contact the office at Timbarra P-9 College on 9704 2744 to book www.timbarrap9.vic.edu.au 10 STAR NEWS

|

Thursday, 12 November, 2020

DRYSDALES – the Jewellers Quality jewellery is forever

12470094-NG46-20

Technology

Timbarra specialised STEAM Centre program for all Year 7-9 students in 2021.

12469104-DL46-20

Science

Drysdales Berwick Village Jewellery 2 Blackburne Square Berwick VIC 3806 03 9707 2647 | berjewel@ozemail.com.au berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

VCE exams officially on

By Mitchell Clarke and Jessica Anstice Students across Casey have breathed a sigh of relief after knocking over their first VCE exam.

After the most disrupted year on record, final year exams officially began on Tuesday 10 November with 41,690 students across the state taking part in the English exam and another 3,879 sitting the English as an additional language exam.

After having done much of their preparation via remote learning, Year 12 students at St Francis Xavier College carried out their first exam in a socially distant manner with face masks on.

Deputy principal and head of Beaconsfield campus Rebecca Cetrola said senior students had demonstrated “strength, courage and perseverance”.

Ms Cetrola added it was an “outstanding achievement” that the cohort had bravely worked towards the successful completion of their final year during a global pandemic.

“This is something that no other generation of our lifetime has had to endure,” she said.

“At St Francis Xavier College, positive learning partnerships have been evident all year.

Students, teachers, and parents have worked in partnership to support our Year 12 students to achieve their best in their final year of secondary education.”

More than 250 students arrived on campus on Tuesday morning to take the very first exam.

“Our students were in good spirits and calm, knowing they have been well supported

Students at St Francis Xavier College have finished their first exam. by our fine team of English teachers,” Ms Cetrola said.

“We wish them all the best as they enter into their VCE examinations and conclude their VCAL studies.”

For Berwick’s Nossal High School school

Picture: SUPPLIED

captain Shalaaka, sitting the first exam was a milestone.

“It was good to get one out of the way. It was a hit and miss but overall I didn’t think it was too bad,” she said.

“I think having done the first one now, we

know what to expect going into the others in terms of handling our nerves.”

Students at Beaconhills College’s Berwick campus also had a “really positive” start going in to their VCE exams.

A college spokeswoman said students headed into exams after months of preparation, hard work and determination to finish the year successfully.

“Students continued to learn through the periods of remote learning and have been incredibly grateful for the support from their teachers,” she said.

“Our students have demonstrated strength through adversity and we are all very proud of what they have accomplished this year.”

Education Minister James Merlino congratulated students had had persevered despite the many challenges of 2020.

“This has been a year like no other, and the class of 2020 should be especially proud of how far they have come and how much they have achieved,” he said.

“Thank you to all students, their teachers and their families for their hard work, commitment and extraordinary resilience in the lead up to these exams.

“Good luck to all students who are sitting VCE exams in what has been an extremely challenging year.”

Statewide, a total of 83,583 students will sit at least one examination - written, performance or oral - by the time exams finish on 1 December.

Students are set to receive their ATAR results from 7am on Wednesday 30 December.

OPEN FOR DINING IN AND TAKEAWAY AMA ING MEALS

Friday and Sat arvos till 6pm.

First in best dressed.

Bookings from: 6pm-7.45pm, 8pm-9.45pm, 10pm - late.

12466981-CG43-20

BAR OPEN ALL VENUE FACILITIES NOW OPEN

ZFK TAKEAWAY

Revival is available for intimate private functions and events, just call Pete for more details.

ORDER AT ZAGAMES.COM.AU/BERWICK PH. 9702 6223

• PIZZA • CHEESE PLATTER • TAPA’S CALL NOW for more details

HOT DOG DINER NOW OPEN

Cardinia Park Hotel would like to thank all our customers for their continued support & invite any new customers to give us a try.

Hot Dogs, Shakes & Coffee (Takeaway Only) Mon-Sat 10AM-4PM

P: 9707 1188

0424 492 061 0419 663 582 Monday - Thursdays 6am - 2pm, Friday - Saturday 6am- 11:30pm Follow us on

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

12470243-NG46-20

OPEN

LUNCH: 11:45AM - 2PM DINNER: 5.30PM - 8PM BOTTLE SHOP OPEN: 10AM - 8PM

LOCATED INSIDE OF NEW YORK BARBERS 30 Adams Lane, Berwick VIC 3806

For menu and specials go to www.cardiniaparkhotel.com.au or Cardinia Park Hotel 200 Beaconsfield-Emerald Rd, Beaconsfield

Thursday, 12 November, 2020

|

12470007-NG46-20

12463649-SG40-20

COVID RESTRICTIONS APPLY

STAR NEWS 11

NEWS

Kinder made free in 2021

By Jessica Anstice Free kinder will be delivered by the State Government for 2021 to save parents thousands of dollars and help more women return to work.

The Victorian Budget 2020/21 will deliver up to $169.6 million to make kinder free, saving families about $2000 for every child enrolled in a participating funded kindergarten program.

With many parents having had to juggle work, childcare and kids learning from home through the coronavirus lockdown, Minister for Early Childhood Ingrid Stitt said the government wants to give families one less thing to worry about next year.

“This is a smart investment. Not only will free kinder save families thousands of dollars - it’ll get more kids into kinder, back early childhood services and workers, and help support more parents, especially women, into the workforce,” Ms Stitt said.

Through the investment, the government has turned its focus on women returning to the workforce as the state recovers from the pandemic.

Premier Daniel Andrews claimed that women have been hardest hit by the pandemic.

“Women have been hardest hit by this pandemic. Real recovery means making sure they’re supported back into work - and the security and stability that affords,” he said.

“This investment is dedicated to making the daily juggle of work, school and kinder just that little bit easier.”

Under the investment, subsidies will be offered to early childhood services providing funded kindergarten programs - meaning free kinder for four-year-olds and eligible threeyear-olds attending a participating sessional kinder.

Families with children enrolled in kinder programs at a long day care centre will also benefit from a saving of around $2000 in fees.

And for those families that have kids attending unfunded three-year-old programs in sessional kindergartens, there will also be reduced fees.

“More schools will be able to establish before and after school care programs for students, giving parents greater flexibility when it comes to work, study, training or finding new opportunities,” Minister for Education James Merlino added.

To further help parents return to work or increase their hours, the government will invest $81.6 million to increase the availability of before and after school care.

Grants of up to $75,000 will be made available to start new outside school hours care programs at up to 400 government schools - so that any school that currently doesn’t have a program can apply to receive a grant.

Permanent protections: Schools get shelter smart

By Mitchell Clarke and Jessica Anstice Two local schools will receive funding from the State Government to install more sunshades in playgrounds and outdoor areas.

Berwick’s Nossal High School and Harkaway Primary School students will share in more than $1.3 million funding from the latest round of the School Shade Grants Program.

Nossal High School is set to receive $25,000 for the establishment of permanent shade and the purchase of sun protective items. Nossal assistant principal Keith Butler told Star News it was a “relief” and a long time coming.

“We’re finally get shade sails,” he laughed.

Mr Butler has been pushing for the sunsmart shades for the past five years, and said prior to that, the school had also been push-

ing for the funding.

“It’s just a relief that we can now provide shade to our 830 students,” he said.

“We don’t have a lot of shade in our school at the moment.”

The school has flagged a relatively new sporting precinct as the location for the three new shade sails, which are set to be delivered next year.

“It’s going to be great. Students could be watching sport or they might just be relaxing at recess or lunch time, but now they’ll get to enjoy the shade,” Mr Butler added.

The children, teachers and families of Harkaway Primary School will also get $20,500 for the repair and replacement of existing permanent shade.

Eastern Victoria MP Harriet Shing said it was “great” for children to spend time playing outdoors and keeping active.

“These grants mean Harkaway Primary School and Nossal High School students can still enjoy the outdoors while having the necessary shade to be protected from the sun,” she said.

“Skin cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer in Australia. It’s important we give Victorians the protection they need to stay sun smart.”

“Our grants programs have helped hundreds of schools and community groups provide the protection Victorians need to prevent cancer. Now even more children in Eastern Victoria will be shielded from the sun’s harmful UV rays.”

When used alongside other sun protection measures such as sunscreen and clothing, shade structures are the best defence and can reduce overall exposure to UV radiation by up to 75 percent. In 2018, melanoma was the fifth

most common cancer in the state with 3096 new cases diagnosed and 291 deaths.

The grants are still available to schools to build new shade structures, repair existing structures, or create natural shade by planting trees and purchase sun protective items including hats and sunscreen.

Schools play an important role in teaching effective sun smart behaviours from an early age.

The School Shade Grants Program is complemented by the Community Shade Grants Program, which provides shade for community organisations. Together, these programs have awarded 1429 grants across the state, totalling almost $13.5 million.

It forms part of the government’s Victorian Cancer Plan 2020-24 which sets out a target to halve the proportion of Victorians diagnosed with preventable cancers by 2040.

The future of local media is in your hands …

We need your help to secure the future of local newspapers

This study has Deakin University ethics approval, (ref: HAE-20-141).

12469448-SN46-20

Go to localnewsinnovation.org or scan the below QR code to be a part of Australia’s largest local-news survey:

Enter the draw to win one of 10 iPads 12 STAR NEWS

|

Thursday, 12 November, 2020

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

Luxury living looks good on you!

Find your brand-new home

If you’re over 50 you can step into a fabulous life of luxury today. Simply downsize to a brand-new home at Lifestyle Kaduna Park and look forward to a future with 5-star resort facilities at your doorstep in a safe and vibrant gated community.

And with brand-new homes now selling from $360,000 to $535,000* you’ll have all the money you need left over to enjoy true financial freedom!

Display homes now open Call 1300 50 55 60 to book a private tour and find the home that’s right for you.

Lifestyle Kaduna Park, 45 Heytesbury Drive, Officer South

Blooming beautiful homes As the South East’s premium provider in over 50s luxury living, Lifestyle Communities also has a limited number of beautiful homes now available in thriving Lifestyle Berwick Waters, Lifestyle Casey Fields and Lifestyle Officer from $370,000*.

Make the move and enjoy access to 5-star resort facilities, and perfectly landscaped outdoor spaces without having to lift a finger.

12469401-RC46-20

Find the home and community that’s right for you.

Call 1300 50 55 60 to find out more.

lifestylecommunities.com.au *Price correct as at November 2020

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

Over 50s Resort Living Thursday, 12 November, 2020

|

STAR NEWS 13

NEWS

New beginning for eatery

By Danielle Kutchel Opening a new business in the middle of a global pandemic may seem counterintuitive, but that’s exactly what Damian and the team at Little Ratoons opted to do - and so far, it’s paying off nicely.

Damian, a chef by trade with an impressive resume (he’s worked for big names like Attica and Ten Minutes by Tractor), said they decided to just go for it. The first few weeks saw plenty of trial and error, testing and evaluation, with a portion of the restaurant’s takings being donated to charity.

For the first little while Little Ratoons was restricted to takeaway due to Covid restrictions - but with lockdown lifted, they’re keen to kick off and meet locals properly.

Little Ratoons has taken over the site where Ambrosia used to be, on Bemersyde Drive in Berwick, and the two could not be more different.

Little Ratoons has a “fun and funky vibe”, Damian explained, a family-friendly, pubmeets-fine-dining eatery and bar with an ever-changing menu to surprise diners with each week. Drinks and ingredients are all sourced locally, which is why, Damian said, the menu can’t ever be locked in; it’s based on what’s available at pick up from suppliers.

“It keeps the kitchen spicy and keeps everyone on their toes!” Damian said.

Even the name harks back to the vibe - ‘ratoon’ refers to new sprouts, or in this case, new beginnings.

Community is a big part of the Little Ra-

The table is set and Little Ratoons is open for dine-in. 220068

Little Ratoons has a fun and funky vibe. 220068

Kayla, Brett and Brea are ready to serve you. 220068 toons ethos too, with Damian keen to see what residents want in their new local. One of the reasons he sources his ingredients from small businesses is because he wants to see them grow and thrive too.

Having lost friends and colleagues to suicide, Damian said mental health is another important factor in the business. Staff at Little Ratoons participate in a mental health

program upon being hired, and also have access to more mental health days than government regulations stipulate, just in case they need them. During lockdown, Little Ratoons encouraged visitors who live locally to walk down for their coffee or food, to get the endorphins flowing.

Now, he’s encouraging people to step out, dine in, and take part in the “new wave of be-

ginning after Covid lockdown”. With a beer garden out the back and upstairs dining, there’s plenty of room for everyone.

“It’s all about getting some happiness back in people’s lives,” Damien said.

Little Ratoons is located at 13/84 Bemersyde Drive, Berwick. Follow them on Facebook or find out more at littleratoons.com.au

Help these local businesses by shopping locally...

We are still open for business or delivering to customers.

At Star News we care about our communities and understand how local business is the life blood of the local economy

New location 8 Blackburne Square Berwick Phone: (03) 9796 1588

head to your friendly neighbourhood comic shop for all your POP culture needs NEW & CLASSIC COMICS INSTORE AND ONLINE

12447870-CLG18-20

WE HAVE MOVED

12469989-CG46-20

Spend your money locally and support local businesses.

WE ARE OPEN

We are all in this together @

WE ARE STILL HERE

BERWICK FOOTWEAR Mon -Fri 10.00am - 4.00pm Sat 10.00am - 1.00pm

Visit us on facebook and instagram

____

★

COMIC EMPORIUM

★

SHOP 2/52 HIGH STREET, BERWICK – 9707 1506

____

3/2 Beaconsfield Emerald Rd, Beaconsfield www.secrethqcomics.com.au secrethqcomicemporium secretheadquarterscomic

12468722-SN45-20

12469117-JW45-20

12470248-DL46-20

30 Years Experience in Dressmaking

WEDDING SEASON IS HERE

Alterations and dressmaking for all occasions To comply with COVID-19 restrictions, masks are also available for make to match outfits.

0451 965 860 clara.serey.fashions@gmail.com 14 STAR NEWS

|

Thursday, 12 November, 2020

12470009-SG46-20

NARRE WARREN FOR ALL YOUR AUTOMOTIVE NEEDS BUSINESS AS USUAL Fit n Firm Berwick- 0412 128 332 Fit n Firm Functional Training (Berwick)- 0411 245 747 www.fitnfirm.com.au

Cnr Narre Warren Nth & Lauderdale Rds

Phone: 9705 8800 berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

Help these local businesses by shopping locally...

We are still open for business or delivering to customers.

At Star News we care about our communities and understand how local business is the life blood of the local economy

Spend your money locally and support local businesses.

Open 7 days LATE

We are all in this together @

12465944-HL43-20

YOUR LOCAL

Come & Visit us & be AMAZED...

NOW ONLINE

ELECTRICIAN QUALIFIED A GRADE ELECTRICIAN 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE.

Visit: https:www.berwickbulkfoods.com.au AND SHOP NOW

Contact: ANTHONY VELLA

M: 0431 282 364

12461572-JW38-20

www.lotsoffinsaquarium.com.au

12466622-JW45-20

NO JOB IS TOO SMALL OR TOO BIG www.vellavoltelectrics.com

96 VICTOR CRES NARRE WARREN

12470001-CG46-20

FOLLOW US ON

Berwick RSL Inc.

YOUR LOCAL HEALTH FOOD SHOP

HELP SUPPORT LOCAL VETERANS

Phone: 9707 1148

Buy Your Poppy Online at berwickrsl.org.au

0455 556 437 12466478-HL43-20

Go Vita Berwick 10 Blackburne Square BERWICK

12458565-DL34-20

NEW ONLINE ORDERING WEBSITE www.govitaberwick.com

Berwick RSL Welfare Team

OUR MASSIVE SPRING CLEAN OUT SALE... JUST GOT EVEN BIGGER!!!

BATTERY ZONE er y e deliv ! m o h ng lect Offeri nd col a k c i u l .c o m .a and c r yzone ham@

12457185-DL32-20

Batteries for Everything

batte

0 1364 4 9 5 : Ph

Paken

Mask’s made to order

Now taking alterations

Pakenham Produce & Saddlery

20, 215-225 Visit us on facebook ParkhillShopDrive, Berwick for more designs 9705 7093 and styles

Ph: 03 5941 1844 2 Bormar Drive (Cnr Bald Hill Road), Pakenham, Vic 3810 www.pakenhamproduce.com.au

12470012-NG46-20

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

Thursday, 12 November, 2020

|

STAR NEWS 15

NEWS

Cash them in

By Jessica Anstice Residents will soon be able to receive a 10 cent refund for empty bottles and cans as part of the State Government’s new container deposit scheme.

With growing volumes of beverage containers, Victorians can continue to dispose of their bottles knowing that soon there will be a small refund for aluminium, glass and plastic drink containers returned for recycling.

Before the scheme rolls out, community members are encouraged have their say on how a container deposit scheme could work best for them.

“We want to help communities look after our local environment by being better equipped to tackle litter and increase recycling and now they have the chance to help shape how it works,” Member for Bass Jordan Crugnale said.

“Victoria’s container deposit scheme will be an exciting opportunity for all Victorians to play a role in improving recycling, cutting waste and tackling litter and importantly, it’ll create jobs across the state.”

Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio said the plan to introduce a container deposit scheme is part of the government’s $300 million Recycling Victoria policy.

“This record investment is transforming our recycling sector and driving investment in world class infrastructure and technology, create cutting-edge local industries and supporting new jobs,” Ms D’Ambrosio said.

“A container deposit scheme will create hundreds of new jobs in Victoria, in collection

How to hire the right staff

For any queries contact 0410 422 541

HELLENIC SNACKPACKS Seasoned chicken or lamb gyro, slow cooked & served on a bed of seasoned fries, finished with our homemade garlic sauce. Let Yanni know if you’d like to add chili or bbq sauce.

CHICKEN Reg $25 or large (for 2) $38

LAMB SHOULDER Reg $27 or large (for 2) $40

MIXED Reg $25 or large (for 2) $38

THE VEGETARIAN 6 Delicious falafel served with yanni’s hand cut fried lemon and herb potatoes,greek salad, eggplant dip and pita bread

KITCHEN A selection of Yanni’s fancy meals

YANNI’S MEATBALLS Yanni loves his balls! Beef Meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce served with our famous lemon & herb fried Potatoes and a greek salad $25.

OPEN SOUVLAKI (CHICKEN, LAMB SHOULDER OR MIXED) Slow cooked & seasoned meat served with a side of greek salad, Pita bread, garlic sauce and fries. $25

TRAY OF SEASONED CHICKEN GYRO A tray of our Deliciously cut & Seasoned gyro meat Cooked to perfection.

Reg $18 lrg $30

GREEK SALAD Fresh lettuce, tomato, Cucumber, onions, olives And feta; finished with our Homemade greek dressing $19.

CHICKEN SHASHLIK Marinated grilled chicken Skewers drizzled with tangy Bbq sauce, side salad and Yanni’s hand cut lemon and Herb fried potatoes. $25

TRAY OF SEASONED LAMB SHOULDER GYRO A tray of our deliciously Cut & seasoned lamb Shoulder gyro meat cooked to perfection.

Reg $20 lrg $32

SIDES Yanni highly recommends, the perfect pairings for a Mediteraenean Feast

YANNI’S HAND CUT FRIED POTATOES Lemon & herb, sweet paprika salted or chilli zest salted $12

TIA’S TZATZIKI OR Melitzanosalata dip (Eggplant) Aunties secret recipe $8

FRESH PITA BREAD Only the best $4

centres, in transport and logistics, and through support services like technology management, community education, auditing and reporting.

“Similar schemes in Queensland and New South Wales have created between 600 and 700 jobs.”

Community organisations, charities and small businesses will have options for getting involved in the scheme, including operating refund collection points and fundraising opportunities.

These opportunities will create new jobs, provide new income streams for existing businesses and strengthen the economy.

The scheme will create new clean material streams for plastic, aluminium and glass, boosting the state’s recycling system and the re-manufacture of these resources into new products.

The proposed container deposit scheme model proposes a ‘split responsibility’ model, where the scheme coordinator function and the network operator function are separated.

This model will maximise the number of bottles collected and ensure strong accountability throughout the scheme.

The container deposit scheme network will include a variety of collection points such as automated reverse vending machines in public places, drive through depots, pop up collection points at events and community festivals, and over the counter at local shops.

Consultation will be open on the Engage Victoria website from Monday 2 November to Monday 30 November.

To find out more go to engage.vic.gov.au/ container-deposit-scheme

YIA YIA’S DOLMADES (6PCS) Rolled grape leaves stuffed with our herb-y rice mix drizzled in olive oil & lemon juice $10

SEASONED CHIPS Mixed herbs seasoned hot chips $12

EXTRAS Tangy bbq sauce, matinia’s chili sauce or house made garlic sauce

Take a minute to think about your business’ greatest successes and learning experiences to date. Chances are that these will be very much related to great (or poor) staff performance, possibly even your own!

As Covid-19 restrictions begin to ease, many businesses are at last either reopening or looking to expand which implies the opportunity to take on new employees. I sincerely believe that the most important decision a business can make is hiring the right staff. However I wonder how many business owners and managers know how to do this well? Specifically, how many employers do you know have actually undertaken interview skills training or would know how to identify a great fit (or indeed a bad fit!) for the role? If using a recruitment agent, how can you be sure that they really understand your requirements and indeed know how to find the right candidates.

Here’s what I think normally happens: a vacancy becomes available either due to someone leaving or being moved out of the role or is created due to business expansion. Whilst the decision to hire may be made in a timely manner, often the actions required to start the process properly are left until later and so things get missed or at least done in a compressed timeframe.

The employer calls the recruitment agent with an ‘urgent’ need to find a suitable person very often purely based upon essential technical skills, years of experience and appropriate salary range. The employer assumes that the recruitment agent knows exactly the type of person they are after and the recruitment agent assumes that the employer will know how to identify the right candidate. Unfortunately, neither is necessarily true. Little wonder then that the 2017 Global Study by Mercer Talent Trends (“Empowerment in a disrupted world”) found that “Half of all employees rated their application and hiring process as average or below average” and the “2018 Turnover and Retention Research Report” by the Australian HR Institute identified a staff turnover rate of 18%.

So what are the proper actions to begin the recruitment process? Like any other business process, planning is essential and taking the time to do each step properly is vital. The first step is to identify exactly the

TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS IAN ASH sort of person that you need. It is well worth involving other key managers and staff in this process since it is not uncommon to find that different people have different perspectives on the role requirements. For this reason, I recommend documenting these requirements properly in a Position Description since not only can this be used as the basis for a good job advertisement, it is also more effective to align understanding on a documented role as opposed to relying on a verbal discussion. It also greatly facilitates the role of the recruitment agent.

Preparation is key, so when resumes and cover letters (also essential!) are received, take the time to review them thoroughly, but don’t rely on these alone. There are many good resume writers out there and nothing beats a properly conducted job interview. Many interviewers focus almost exclusively on the technical skills required for the role but typically companies “hire on skills and fire on fit”. It is therefore very important that there is real clarity on the company culture both now and in the future to get the right fit. Knowing this means that the focus can now be on an individual’s core values and how these align with those of the company combined with an understanding of why the individual really wants the role, I sincerely believe that the chance of “firing on fit” is reduced considerably.

Of course, the requisite technical skills are required, but it is rare that they actually need to be a technical expert in the space; if they do, be prepared to pay for them! If they appear to be a good fit for the business, then any missing technical skills can be (relatively) easily trained, whereas try training someone to fit in to their role or training them to really like it – both are considerably harder!

Ian Ash is the Managing Director of OrgMent Business Solutions www.ombs.com.au

12457581-SN33-20

16 STAR NEWS

|

Thursday, 12 November, 2020

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

A native Australian Bush Rat. 221026

New Holland Honeyeater. 221026

Pictures: GARY SISSONS

Swamp Wallaby. 221026

A walk on the wildside Star News photographer GARY SISSONS, an avid wildlife photographer, has been out and about in one of his favourite places in the world - the Cranbourne Royal Botanical Gardens.The beautiful gardens are the perfect place for Gary to spot some of his favourite birds, including the Powerful Owl, which is the largest owl in Australia.

Here’s just a snippet of photos taken on his recent visit.

Golden Whistler. 221026

White Browned Scrubwren.221026

A Powerful Owl spotted in the trees. 221026

A Swamp Wallaby was spotted. 221026

A Grey Fantail on a branch. 221026

Eastern Spinebill. 221026

New Holland Honeyeater. 221026

Eastern Yellow Robin. 221026

Eurasian Coot. 221026

Pacific Black Duck and her ducklings. 221026

A male Superb Fairy Wren. 221026

Yellow Faced Honeyeater. 221026

Two male Superb Fairy Wren. 221026

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

Thursday, 12 November, 2020

|

STAR NEWS 17

NEWS

Road named as an honour

Subscribe to the

Berwick Star News Digital Edition

By Neil Lucas

FREE BERWICK

Thursday, 20 September, 2018

BERWICK

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

/berwickstarnews

School's $3.9 million pledge

Students go green

How the SEFNL was won

PAGE 3

PAGE 5

SPORT

@StarNews_SE

Thursday, 20 September, 2018

40¢ Inc. GST berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

com.au

Property Lift out

rea

/berwickstarnews

School's $3.9 million pledge

Students go green

How the SEFNL was won

PAGE 3

PAGE 5

SPORT

@StarNews_SE

40¢ Inc. GST

com.au

real estate

Property Lift out

After three premierships in four years, Berwick are enjoying their most successful era.

185297 Picture: ROB CAREW

After three premierships in four years, Berwick are enjoying their most successful era.

185297 Picture: ROB CAREW

Berwick’s belter Berwick's intensity from the opening bounce until the final siren simply can't be matched.

Their premiership victory against Narre Warren on Saturday - giving the club back-toback flags for just the second time in club history - was intense, finals footy laced with the right amount of class.

After a third premiership in four years, the word 'dynasty' is deservingly being bandied around, and for good reason.

The club has a stranglehold over the southeast region - they're relentless, driven by success and are always chasing their next challenge. It's the cornerstone of all successful sporting clubs.

While the weather may have been arctic in their 51-point win over Narre Warren, the Wickers put in a magical performance befitting of a champion team in the midst of a golden era.

From the superstar Travis Tuck, who came to the club with a high expectation that has

now culminated with a best on ground medal in a grand final, to their champion skipper Madi Andrews, dynamic forward Harry Money, gun midfielder Bryce Rutherford and reliable defenders Jo West and Michael Riseley, the Wickers possess remarkable star power.

"We pride ourselves on our relentless approach," Berwick coach Stewart Kemperman said in the aftermath of another premiership win.

And as for Kemperman, he couldn't have a dreamt of a start to his senior coaching career

FACTORY DIRECT BLINDS FOR LESS

16 A Casey Lifestyle Centre 430 - 440 Princes Highway Narre Warren

Affordable and Compassionate

03 9562 1855

12387046-EPJ16-18

Serving Melbourne for over 75 years

155 Sladen St, Cranbourne

- two premierships in two years.

Not only is the former Noble Park champion blessed with an incredible squad, but he's a forward thinker, a modern day coach with an incredible tactical nous.

The foundations are set, and as the club embarks on a new era in AFL Outer East, it seems the Wickers show no signs of slowing down.

Turn to sport for more about a golden day for the Wickers in the final ever grand final of the South East Football Netball League.

12392692-LN28-18

By Nick Creely

30-32 Victor Cres Narre Warren 3805

Call for a Free Mearsure & Quote

Ph: 8794-9111 www.cozyindooroutdoor.com.au

VISIT

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au/subscribe 18 STAR NEWS

|

Thursday, 12 November, 2020

201902226453-AM10-19

BERWICK

Narre Warren North War Memorial, Memorial Drive, Narre Warren North Following the conclusion of World War I in 1919 local residents of Narre Warren North conducted working bees to plant 60 oak trees which were created in an avenue to honour local residents who had fought in the Great War. Funding was then raised for the construction of a War Memorial which involved the transporting of stone by train to Narre Warren, from where it was carted up to the site in Narre Warren North.

The memorial was duly completed by Anzac Day in 1924 when the dedication and first service was conducted.

The memorial records the names of three local men who died as a result of the conflict Corporal Henry Battersby, Private Malcolm Collis and Private Robert Moors, together with the names of a further 15 local men who served.

Each year a service was conducted at the memorial.

In 1930 the local paper reported on the Remembrance Day Service - “A service was held at Narre Warren North war memorial on Sunday last; a large gathering assembled at the monument, and later adjourned to the Methodist Church, on account of the rain. Mr. Singleton presided. Mr. a’Beckett was pleased to see such a large gathering. He felt they had a duty to those brave lads who laid down their lives. Later he introduced Captain Griffin, who addressed the congregation and congratulated the people on the sentiment that brought them together. It was fitting that they should honour those lads who never came back, and keep the sacrifice they made before the younger ones who were growing up and who would later carry the burden of citizenship. He was not a public speaker, he said, but he had willingly come to assist, as

he felt that was the true spirit. He was pleased to see such a representative gathering, and he hoped the Armistice service would never be neglected. Such gatherings were a great consolation to the relatives here who had suffered the losses, and meetings such as these were also essential to cement and hold the ties of Empire.

Appropriate hymns were sung, and Mr. W. R. Angus rendered the solo, “The Man of Sorrows.”

After the benediction the National Anthem brought the service to a close.”

Following the conclusion of World War II further names were added to the memorial Private Walter Newton who died while a prisoner of war in Burma, 44 men who served and three local women who served in the Australian Women’s Army Service (AWAS).

An unfortunate occurrence in the 1960s saw the memorial damaged. A community working bee was being held to clear up around the memorial. This involved the lopping of some branches from an adjacent tree. Alas a branch fell onto the memorial cracking and breaking off the top section of the granite memorial which had to be repaired by pinning.

Two local men served in the Vietnam War and their names were added to the memorial following the end of that conflict.

The Memorial was refurbished and rededicated at a service conducted 80 years later on Anzac Day 2004.

From the time of the original land surveys in the area, Narre Warren North Road included what is now named Memorial Drive, and ran through to a T intersection at Main Street Narre Warren North.

When the former City of Berwick acquired land to provide a deviation of the Narre Warren North Road into the Hallam-Belgrave Road the northern section of the road at Narre Warren North was renamed Memorial Drive. berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS To coincide with Remembrance Day, NEIL LUCAS looks at the many incarnations of war memorials at Narre Warren and Narre Warren North.

Memorial’s many moves Narre Warren War Memorial, Bunjil Place, Patrick Northeast Drive, Narre Warren With the onset of the First World War in 1914 communities took on what was considered their responsibility to encourage local young men to engage in the perils of warfare overseas in support of King and country.

The Narre Warren community played its role in this regard.

There were 91,000 Australian men and women join the services and of that number 19,000 died and 42,000 were wounded. This was a huge cost to the young nation of Australia and the Narre Warren community shared in that awful cost.

Although official records of those who enlisted in the First World War are not as detailed and accurate as records these days, it appears that there may have been 44 local men who enlisted stating Narre Warren or Narre Warren North addresses although there are only 29 listed on the War Memorial at Narre Warren nine who had died in the fighting and a further 20 who had served.

The perils of the fighting were quickly realised when in June 1915 the community learnt of the death of the grandson of two wellknown Narre Warren residents John and Mary Dunkinson.

Sergeant Valentine Dunkinson had been killed in action at the Dardenelles. Valentine had been working for the Army at its Broadmeadows Depot but felt that duty called him to the Front and the call compelled him to go.

The Rev Whiteside conducted a memorial service to Valentine’s memory at Narre Warren at which local Councillor a’Beckett read the lesson.

Later that year Alexander McClure, the son of a former resident and prominent member of the Narre Warren Cricket Club Colin McClure, died from wounds received in the fighting at Gallipoli.

The receipt of bad news in Narre Warren continued throughout the war with advice of further deaths and casualties.

The Kent family who farmed at Oatlands on the Narre Warren North Road had three of their sons enlist. Norman, Alfred, and Charles each joined the Army, Norman in 1914, Alfred at the age of 40 years in 1915, and Charles in 1916.

Sadly, Alfred died whilst fighting in France in May 1916, and in April 1917 his brother Norman died of wounds sustained in the conflict.

Second Lieutenant Norman was awarded the Military Medal and mentioned in dispatches for his bravery at Pozieres in France. Charles survived and returned to Narre Warren in April 1918.

Original settlers in Narre Warren, immigrants Johann and Maria Hillbrich had seven of their grandsons serve in World War I and sadly three did not return, each being killed in action in France.

Two of these were the Kent boys, referred to above, sons of their daughter Maria Kent.

The other was Norman Hillbrich who died of wounds on 6 May 1917.

Others who did not return were Dugald MacKenzie who died in France 4 May 1917, Alexander McClure in Gallipoli 20 November 1915, John Muffett 26 August 1917, George Smith in France 31 March 1917, Albert Stedman in France 28 July 1916, and Frederick Wanke 17 May 1918.

After the war communities across the country raised funds to establish war memorials.

Following three years of fund raising by the Narre Warren community, 200 pounds were available for the construction of the memorial at the north-east corner of Princes Highway and Narre Warren North Road.

On completion the opening ceremony was conducted in 1923.

Two granite pillars supported a stone arch with galvanised iron gates between the pillars.

To each side were concrete return walls ending with a shorter pillar. The names of those who lost their lives were recorded on the structure as well as the names of those who had served.

Following the conclusion of the Second World War, the necessary funds were raised so berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

People now pay their respects at the Narre Warren Memorial at dawn on Anzac Day at Bunjil Place.

Narre Warren War Memorial at its first site on Patrick Northeast Drive (on the site of the now Casey ARC).

A huge crowd attends the first dawn service at the memorial after the move to Bunjil Place.

The memorial’s current home at Bunjil Place.

The original Narre Warren War Memorial.

that the names of those who had served could be added to the memorial and the side wall returns replaced with granite.

The names of two residents who lost their lives and 27 who served were added to the memorial. The additions to the memorial were unveiled on Anzac Day 1949 by local Federal Member Lt-Colonel Rupert Ryan MHR with Rev Scott conducting a service at which local school children formed a guard of honour and local Scouts were the colour party.

Then over a period of years the memorial suffered some unfortunate damage. A wayward truck damaged one of the gates resulting in its removal together with its partner gate.

The increasing traffic on the adjacent highway and the movement in the ground then became a cause of concern when the archway became unstable. It was reported that the memorial’s foundations had subsided, so after some investigations it was decided to remove the arch for safety reasons and place coping stones on the top of each pillar.

Later, the arrival of Perry Bros Circus was a time of further unintentional attack on the memorial when a circus truck became jammed in the gateway dislodging one of the pillars.

One of the circus elephants was unloaded and deployed to move the stone pillar back into place. However, the ongoing ground movement and general deterioration of the memorial was such that in the early 1970s it

was all removed and stored in the council depot.

Local retired Narre Warren Postmaster Jack Nobelius, a former World War II Army digger was concerned with the memorial’s storage away from public sight and through his membership of the newly formed Rotary Club of Narre Warren fought to have the memorial restored.

The club agreed to take this on as a project and in November 1981 a public meeting was arranged where the club, with the support of the Berwick RSL Branch, put forward a proposal to re-establish the memorial in the grounds of the Berwick Civic Centre.

This was agreed and with council approval the club re-constructed the memorial close to what is now the entrance to the Casey ARC swimming centre.

Fortuitously, one of the Rotary Club members Graeme Heath was a stonemason and he took on the re-construction of the stone pillars of the memorial.

On Anzac Day in 1983 the war memorial was re-dedicated and the Rotary Club conducted a Gunfire Breakfast for those attending in the civic centre. This dawn service and breakfast has continued since that time under the auspices of the Rotary Club of Narre Warren.

But the memorial was to move again - twice.

The Kent family of Narre Warren. Up front are Mary, Charles and Ada and at the back with their Governess are Norman and Alfred, who would both go on to lose their lives in World War I. When the ARC swimming facility was planned the memorial was moved to a position outside the front entrance of the former City of Casey offices where it remained until the construction of Bunjil Place, at which time it took up a position close to the entrance to that facility in what may be its final location, six granite pillars were added adjacent to the memorial with the words “Lest We Forget” etched on each in morse code. The 17 lights in the pavement around the memorial represent the 17 ships which left Port Phillip Bay in October 1914 bound for Gallipoli.

Thursday, 12 November, 2020

|

STAR NEWS 19

NOW SELLING - BOOK YOUR PRIVATE INSPECTION TODAY UNDER OFFER

OFFICER 29 Rosina Drive

Buyer Enquiry Range $570,000 - 610,000

PAKENHAM 12 Rembrandt Court

Buyer Enquiry Range $450,000 - 490,000

Buyer Enquiry Range $395,000 - 430,000

OFFICER 23 Honeydew Street

Buyer Enquiry Range $620,000 - 650,000

Buyer Enquiry Range $580,000 - 620,000

BEACONSFIELD 25/96 Brunt Road

PAKENHAM 45 Timberline Parkway

For Sale $610,000

UNDER OFFER

BOTANIC RIDGE 60 Stringyleaf Street Buyer Enquiry Range $480,000 - 520,000

UNDER OFFER

OFFICER 53 Manchester Boulevard

SOLD

OFFICER 24 Wonder Street

For Sale $570,000

If you have been considering selling, now may be the right time. We have registered buyers waiting.

12469400-SN46-20

HOW CAN WE HELP YOU TODAY?

Ian Harris 0420 533 871

Anil Jayalath 0420 220 779

Janine Scott-Rule 0417 160 423

Peter Nicolls 0418 311 048

Aman Singh 0430 420 053

P 5943 1111 #wecare 20 STAR NEWS

|

Thursday, 12 November, 2020

Terry Lock 0407 494 199

W krpeters.com.au

#staysafe

#stayhealthy berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

FOCUS ON … REAL ESTATE

THE EPITOME OF TIMBERTOP IS RIGHT HERE “WHEN you think of Timbertop you think of: class, sophistication, comfortable living and community. And after you experience 7 Timbertop Boulevard you will understand why this home is the perfect representation for this wonderful estate.”

Close to primary schools, public transport and shops the location in the family-friendly estate is highly sought-after.

The home is also as private as it is open.

Featuring: Private and secluded remaining bedrooms with built-in robes plus a living area that is currently being utilised as a fourth bedroom; Open plan living/dining room that is exposed to a glowing northern sun; Large kitchen complete with expansive 60mm stone bench tops, impressive Falcon oven/cooktop and plenty of storage; A feature gas fireplace that is central to the home.

The features don’t stop there: A large north-facing courtyard, additional powder room, split system heating cooling in all the bedrooms and major rooms, study nook, high ceilings, ducted vaccum, security system, double car garage with internal access, landscaped front yard, private rear access perfect for washing the car outside of the property.

Ray White prides itself on being as accurate as possible however anyone considering purchasing the property should undertake their own due diligence to confirm the above. ●

· · · ·

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 7 Timbertop Boulevard, OFFICER Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $640,000 - $670,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Gavin Staindl, 0424 227 134, RAY WHITE, PAKENHAM, 5940 8355

WHETHER YOU ARE BUYING OR SELLING, USE THE TEAM WITH PROVEN RESULTS

SEJ

T 16P_

Real Estate

GREAT LOCATION & REPUTATION

SALES IN THE PAST 14 DAYS

12469413-SN46-20

58

133 STOddARTS ROAd WARRAGUL A truly quality build just 3yrs young & spacious in all the right places & low maintenance! Warragul Nths Stoddarts Rd has long been held in high regard lovely homes & lovely people, close to schools, public transport, childcare & Medical Centre & still enjoying an outlook over the farm across the road.

Buying into this area at this small price-a golden opportunity. Perfect for investors, retirees & first home buyers (with the $20,000 FHOG available to approved applicants). Inspect at your earliest convenience to avoid missing out! $370,000 - $384,000 Internet Id: 22597510 View property and more details at www.sej.com.au

5622 3800 Cnr Smith & Queen St, Warragul

www.sej.com.au

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

If you are thinking of buying or selling, talk to the local experts today.

P 5943 1111

W krpeters.com.au

432 Princes Highway Officer #wecare

#staysafe

Thursday, 12 November, 2020

#stayhealthy |

STAR NEWS 21

NEWS

Award win a real beauty

By Danielle Kutchel It’s been an exciting end to the year for one Dandenong educator who’s taken out one of the biggest awards in her industry.

Jane Truong, a makeup artist and teacher at Chisholm Institute’s Dandenong and Frankston campuses, was recognised by the beauty industry as the best in Australia, after being named AMIA Bridal Make-up Artist of the Year 2020.

It follows her nomination as a top-five finalist in the same awards in 2019.

Launched in 2011, the AMIAs, combined with the Australian Beauty Industry Awards (ABIAs), are a trusted national award platform which provides a benchmark of excellence across both specialist and individual categories in beauty and make-up.

Ms Truong said the win was a “nice surprise”, after a “challenging” year.

This year’s award came hot on the heels of her being named a runner up in the Australian Bridal Industry Awards, which are awarded based on reviews from real brides.

Ms Truong’s brides have been featured across publications such as Cosmopolitan Bride, Wedding and Bride, Brides, Polkadot Bride and Aisle Society.

Due to Covid, the AMIA/ABIA gala event was held online.

The virtual celebration was also a welcome chance to dress up after months of lockdown, with finalists encouraged to dress up for the online medium.

Despite the uncertainty of Covid, Ms Tru-

Award winning Chisholm educator Jane Truong. see them at the very beginning when they’re not very confident and still getting to know the basics.

“For me to see them growing in confidence, stepping out of their comfort zone and achieving their milestones, it’s everything. That’s part of the reason why I’m teaching, because I love to be a positive part of their growth and development and see them

Picture: NEIYO SUN achieving their goals as well,” she said.

“Part of the reason why I entered the awards is the students - I really want to inspire and motivate the students.

“I feel very lucky to be working at Chisholm.

Part of my mission ... is to try and grow the makeup area and continue producing students who are really passionate and do succeed in the industry.

¹ĤĈůĈ żō Ŭħýĺ ƁŬ á ŬůħŅżĈă ýōŬƱ ōĝ ƱōƁů @ ,, Ĉůƫħýĺ :[HY 5L^Z

12457376-DL33-20

@ ,, ,¸, ¿ G£ & ¿

ong has remained busy, saying she’s “more comfortable and happy” when she’s working.

She has spent much of lockdown undertaking professional development to upskill so that she can get back to work stronger than before.

She also used the time to reflect on her personal business as a makeup artist, and her teaching at Chisholm.

“I wanted to be in a stronger place coming back, and try and be positive and see the silver linings,” she said.

Ms Truong is driven by a desire to help others look and feel their most beautiful self.

Having originally started out in psychology, Ms Truong still enjoys the psychological aspect of makeup artistry: helping others feel confident in themselves.

She also loves the creativity of her art form, and coaching her students to be the best artists they can be.

For the rest of the year, she’ll be working with brides looking for a 2020 wedding, and preparing for the end of the school term.

The awards put her at the peak of her industry, but Ms Truong believes there is always room to improve.

“My mindset is that I can always improve, until I can’t hold a makeup brush anymore!” she said.

She can then pass these cutting-edge skills on to her students.

Ms Truong is proud of her graduates, many of whom have gone on to have highly successful careers themselves.

“It makes me so proud of them because I

22 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 12 November, 2020

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

networkclassifieds.com.au Trades & Services

Place your ad in print and online www.networkclassifieds.com.au

V Deadline

V Trades Business Profile

V Concrete Products & Services

Placing your classified advert is so easy...

MEB & SON CONCRETING

Grow your business with

We accept payment by:

V Electricians

J.L. Hutt Electrical

From plumbers to pest control, carpet cleaning to building services, dry cleaning to computer repairs, lawn mowing and more, Network Classifieds has been connecting local businesses with the local community with our Trades and Services each week.

S 1

V Air Conditioning

W WINDO

Berwick Air Conditioning

ice nt Serv laceme ws p o e d R in w ium W Windo in m lu A or ote Timber and qu easure Free M

Call Us Today... For our 12470137-CG46-20

FAST, FRIENDLY SERVICE! Service Sales All Brands Finance Available Senior Discounts

and MBA MemberinHdIAows1.net.au

฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

“My customers read their local paper and that’s why we advertise in the News.

We get a steady stream of enquiries. The News definitely works for us.”

- Terry,WINDOWS 1

9998 3725

We NEVER

w w w. S e r v i c e To d a y. c o m . a u

Lic No. AU 51273

9703 1530

฀ ฀

฀

฀

฀

฀

฀

฀

฀

฀ ฀ ฀

Jason 1300 644 698

฀

฀

All Types of Domestic & Commercial Work ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

Call 1300 666 808

฀

★

฀

฀★

Call Chris: 0416 079 689 - 5940 7264

Close

Berwick Electricians

• Air Conditioning Get ready • Split Systems for Summer!!

• Evaporative Evaporative Cooler & Split Cooling System Service Specials

CASEY CARPET CLEANING

Building

24/7 Flood Water Damage Restoration

& Maintenance service

Established 1989

Commercial & Domestic

C698645-JM13-9

Extensions - Renovations - Bathroom Refurbs & Shopfitting

Phone Des: 0419 541 719 A.H. 9705 2463

See website for details REC 17042 PIC 38148 AU 06212

฀

V Appliance Repairs

฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

฀ ฀ ฀

฀

฀ ฀ ON TIME, EVERY TIME

12459315-NG36-20

12461749-NG39-20

www.fairbairns.com.au

15 years experience Fully qualified and insured

0401 234 672 or 9799 7229

Andrew Craven Concreting www.andrewcravenconcreting.com.au t 6OJU 4JUFT t (BSBHFT t %SJWFXBZT t 1FSHPMBT t 1MBJO $PMPVSFE t 4MBUF *NQSFTTJPO t 'BVY #SJDL t &YQPTFE "HHSFHBUF Phone Andrew on

DOMESTIC FRIDGES/WASHERS & COMMERCIAL REFRIGERATION

Contact Trevor: 0403 644 780

Fully Qualified and Licensed

WRIGHT CHOICE CARPENTRY

A & F CONCRETING

Decks - Pergolas - Carports - Gates - Extensions Renovations - Building Maintenance Any Carpentry Needs

• SPECIALISING IN ALL TYPES OF CONCRETING/ CONCRETE PATTERN, SLABS • FOUNDATIONS ETC. • ALL DOMESTIC & INDUSTRIAL

฀ AU06014

General Classifieds section of Network Classifieds.

Dylan Wright Mobile: 0426 501 445 Email: dyl.wright@live.com.au @wrightchoicecarpentry

12447901-SG18-20

฀

1216637-LB06-16

Pensioner Discount Eftpos Available

Discounts apply

g All Pricin t Up-Fron

Call Us Today For our FAST FRIENDLY SERVICE!

Lighting Power Points Phone & Data Hot Water And more... yes we can

SERVICING BERWICK AREA FOR OVER TEN YEARS

V Concrete Products & Services

Fully Licenced Builder/Carpenter ฀ ฀

We bring our own electricity Truck Mounted Machine

www.professionalcarpetclean.com.au

V Carpenters

9702 4410

✔ Steam and dry cleaning ✔ Tile cleaning ✔ Upholstery cleaning ✔ Leather cleaning

12468782-FA45-20

Hampton Park

Pensioner Discounts

0408 585 508, 5998 1127 Support your local tradesman for ALL your concreting needs!

9999-8193

We NEVER

w w w . S e r v i c e To d a y. c o m . a u

Lic No. REC 30504

Close

V Fencing & Gates

SAXON FENCING C1085227-JO32-13

Be cool this summer

V Carpet Cleaning

12450632-LB23-20

V Builders & Building Services

฀

฀ ฀ ฀

L&L ELECTRICS

12459150-SN35-20

NIK Refigeration Service P/L

฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

www.w

SERVICING BERWICK AREA FOR OVER TEN YEARS

฀ ฀ ฀

฀ ฀

Lic No. REC 30504

yes we can

฀

฀

24 HOUR SERVICE ฀

12450623-SN23-20

Speak to our classified team and find out how easy it is to advertise. Start building your brand today and be seen every week in Network Classifieds Trades and Services.

-16 1238899-CG33

12435765-SN02-20

Ask about our discounted ongoing advertising rates and how choosing more newspapers gives your advertising more impact and saves you money...

g All Pricin t Up-Fron

12390512-ACM24-18

TRADES & SERVICES

VISA/MASTERCARD/EFTPOS (1.5% credit card processing fee applies. Cheques and money orders can be posted in or hand delivered to our local office)

Deadline for all classifications is 11am Wednesday

Ring Jim for a free quote 0417 054 198

12438941-CG04-20

(include your name, address and phone number)

1198421-ACM37-15

Online: networkclassifieds.com.au (24/7) Phone: 1300 666 808 (Open 8.30-5pm Mon-Fri) Email: sales@networkclassifieds.com.au

Footings, garages, v crossings, drives, paths & patios.

In plain, colour, slate or stencil. Also drainage, saw cutting, 3T excavator, bobcat & tip trucks.

NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL

Palings, Pickets, Colorbond Fences & Gates Prompt and Reliable Service

Phone 0419 775 259 or 8751 4016

C1101420-JO46-13

NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL FREE QUOTE ANY TIME RING 9700 4378 C63804-BG25-8

General Notices section of Network Classifieds.

Place Your Classified Ads Online Your advert will appear in print and online! berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

Thursday, 12 November, 2020

|

STAR NEWS 23

Trades & Services

General Notices

PAINTER Roof Restoration Specialists

฀

฀

฀

฀

V For Sale

฀

www.proudpainting.com.au

HIGHLY EXPERIENCED TECHNICIANS ANTENNA SERVICE ALL AREAS

Real Estate

section of Network Classifieds.

Bobcat Available

12442957-NG09-20

Lawns from $25 – Free Quotes

Call Kevin 0419 525 110

฀ ฀

฀

฀

SEWER BLOCKAGES – MACHINE CLEANED฀

฀

฀

฀

฀

฀

฀ ฀ ESTABLISHED 30 YEARS ฀ ฀ STANDARD RATES ON WEEKENDS ฀ ฀ ฀฀฀ ฀ ฀ gjlawplumbing.com.au 7 DAYS 0419 136 181 - 0419 136 151

12469374-CG46-20

V Tiling

ECONOMY TILING

1158529-PB42-14

฀ ฀ ฀

ADVERTISERS, in this section are qualified practitioners and offer non-sexual services.

DIGITAL ANTENNAS AMPLIFIERS TV OUTLETS

0409 888 228

1 HOUR EMERGENCY PLUMBING

KEV’S MOWING

V Massage Therapists

SAME DAY SERVICE

M: 0 4 3 0 3 5 3 0 8 0 Ben

All Bathroom Renovations • Bathrooms • Toilets • Kitchens • Decks • Water proofing • Walls and Floors

Free Quotes

CAMERON HEATH PLUMBING V Tree Lopping/Surgery

FREE QUOTES

V Positions Vacant

12447103-SN16-20

V Handy Persons

HANDYMAN & HOME MAINTENANCE Ź Carpentry Ź Painting Ź Plaster Repairs Ź Gutter Cleaning Ź Pressure Cleaning Ź Flat Packs Assembled Ź Police Check Ź Free Quotes

FOUNTAIN GATE PLUMBING

Fully Insured

9796 8621 0418 367 017 NEAT PLUMBING SERVICE Lic. Number 27186 ฀Hot Water Specialists ฀Blocked Drains ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

Brad 0416 190 014 V Locksmiths

12450404-AM23-20

MR LOCK & KEYS FOR ALL YOUR LOCK AND KEY REQUIREMENTS

MIKE 0415 0415 524 280

Over 20 Years’ Experience

Lic No. 116785

Member HIA and MBA

AFFORDABLE PLUMBING

www.windows1.net.au

฀ Lic 47089

฀

฀ ฀

฀ ฀

฀ ฀

฀

฀

฀

฀

฀

฀ ฀ ฀

฀

฀

฀

฀

฀

฀ ฀

12439579-LB04-20

฀

฀ ฀ ฀

฀

฀

฀ ฀

฀ ฀

g All Pricinnt Up-Fro

General Notices

The ideal candidate will possess the following attributes: previous detailing experience or knowledge, excellent time management skills and attention to detail. You be well presented, motivated, reliable and be prepared to work in a busy environment.

V Public Notices and Event

For our FAST FRIENDLY SERVICE! Emergency Plumbing Hot Water Blocked Drains Taps and Toilets Water Leaks And more...

฀

Phone Peter 0437 711 221 yes we can

9998-2905

section of Network Classifieds.

Thursday, 12 November, 2020

www.ServiceToday.com.au

We NEVER

Close

Lic No. 116785

12469948-CG46-20

Join us to learn how we’re caring for our community and listening to our consumers and partners.

Plus, we’ll provide an update on the Victorian Heart Hospital.

NEED NEW STAFF?

This meeting is open to the public and attendance is free.

2pm, Thursday 3 December Live streaming on YouTube For details, please RSVP by Thursday 26 November:

SERVICING BERWICK AREA FOR OVER TEN YEARS

Motoring

If you are an individual who has the necessary skills and would like to join our team, please email your resume to: sales@pakenhammazda.com.au or contact us by phone on 5942 5238.

Monash Health 2020 Annual General Meeting and Open Board

Call Us Today...

฀ ฀

|

Your duties will include preparing New and Used vehicles for handover to customers as well and being responsible for the presentation of the vehicles on display within the showroom.

9703 1530

฀

Berwick Plumbers

฀

฀

24 STAR NEWS

฀

Pakenham Mazda is a family owned and operated business that has been established for over 45 years.

Due to the continued growth of our business and the Mazda products that we sell and service, we are requiring the services of a full time Car Detailer to join our business.

12355821-ACM25-17

฀

฀

฀

฀

PRO PAINTING ฀

฀ ฀

฀ ฀

COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL & RESIDENTIAL ฀

12469949-CG46-20

Call Now 0417 128 536

฀

฀Domestic฀ ฀Commercial฀ ฀ nterior฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

฀ ฀ ฀

10% discount on hot water service installations if you mention this ad.

ANTHONY’S PAINTING ฀

If you think this sounds like a great opportunity to join a small team, please email your resume to sales@highwaycaravancentre.com.au

Call Lucas 0419 259 266 Jack 0400 895 945

Window Replacement Service Timber or Aluminium Windows Free Measure and quote

12355550-ACM25-17

V Painters/Decorators

The ideal candidate will be well presented, reliable and possess an excellent attention to detail.

WINDOWS 1

12450634-NG23-20

when you present this voucher

Removals/pruning Hedging/shaping Line clearing/Palm work Tight access stump grinding Fully Insured/Qualified

CAR DETAILER - Full Time

DOMESTIC COMMERCIAL AUTOMOTIVE Receive 10% off

L&C Tree Services

Your duties will include detailing of Caravans for display and hand over to customers, as well as presentation of the vans in the yard and general surrounds of the premises. You also will be required to assist with pick up and delivery of caravans and parts or accessories as required and generally assist staff or customers as required.

V Windows

www.mrlockandkeys.com.au

Call DOUG AMOS

s Tree Removal s Stumps Ground s $20 Million Insurance s 25 years Experience s Pensioner Discounts

12400545-LB38-19

C1076360-JL7-13

DOMESTIC MESTIC -- COMMERCIAL DO ALL SUBURBS

YARD HAND – Full Time Highway Caravan Centre is a family owned business located on the Highway at Nar Nar Goon. We are a franchised dealer for Crusader Caravans and JB Caravans, and also offer Servicing, Repairs and sales of parts and accessories. Due to the growth of the caravan industry our business requires a full time Yard Hand to join our business.

Sky High Tree Works

0417 382 700

No Job Too Small

FOR

Phone Geoff 0418 340 825

12403390-CG44-18

0411 314 104

C316291-KK18-5

Lic. No. 43679

Lic 24754 • New Houses • Factories • Blockages/Machine and Camera • Same Day Hot Water Services • Domestic and Commercial Maintenance • 3.5 Ton & 12 Ton Excavator • Bobcat and Tipper

Call Jeff on

Pruning Removal Stump Grinding

12354089-PB23-17

Call 0408 227 276

V Apprenticeships /Traineeships

1238899-CG33-16

Pressure Cleaning/Solar & Window Cleaning Satisfaction Guaranteed from $165

Oakfern Tree Care P/L

monashhealth.org/2020-agm-open-board

12469479-HL46-20

Exterior Window Cleaning

Reliable, Local Plumber For All Your Plumbing Needs.

1172347-DJ07-15

30% off

Toilet, Tap, Burst Pipe Repairs Blocked Drains Machine Cleared Gas Installations Roofing And Spouting

C695870-JM11-9

POWERFUL VACUUM LEAVES NOTHING BEHIND

12447771-LB18-20

GUTTER CLEANING

-

12436083-FA50-19

V Guttering

Employment

Adloheat is looking for an enthusiastic, reliable young person to join our business in Pakenham. Must have a good work ethic and want to learn a welding trade. To apply email your resume and cover letter to info@adloheat.com.au Phone: Neil 59400281 www.adloheat.com.au

10% Discount with Mention of Ad - Pensioner Discount

Hot Water Expert

Anyone advertising a puppy, dog, kitten or cat in Victoria for sale or re-homing will need a source number from the Pet Exchange Register and a microchip identification number.

It is now an offence to advertise unless the source number and microchip identification number is included in the advertisement or notice.

For further information, call 136 186 or visit animalwelfare.vic.gov.au

Apprentice Fabrication Engineer

Call 0432 550 066 or 8707 5522

24 Hour Emergency Service

ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE

12423634-SN31-19

12367795-LB41-17

1144857-KC29-14

Commercial/Domestic Decking/pergola/driveways ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

Interior/ext High quality Free quote

V Pets & Services

KEYBOARD Genos 76 note, digital work station.

3 months old. Reason for sale too complicated.

Price 4,300, Ph 5996 6370.

ANTENNA MAN

V Plumbing

Grass Slashing

General Classifieds

V Television/Video/Audio

V Garden Services

FREE CLEAN FILL, Wanted clean fill site, south eastern area. Dams, gullies, paddocks, filled and levelled, no charge.

Phone: 0418 356 583.

10 year Guarantee.

Call now for a FREE quote: 0405 817 173

Darren 0432 427 081

9707 5700, 9768 9153

Weed Spraying Rubbish Removal

One call, We do it all!

đŏ ((ŏ(! 'ŏ.!, %./ŏđŏ ++"ŏ /$%*#ŏđŏ ++"ŏ %*0%*# đŏ (!4%ġ,+%*0%*#ŏđŏ % #!ŏ0%(!ŏ.!ġ ! %*# đŏ ((!5ŏ $ *#%*#ŏđŏ 100!.ŏ (! *%*#ŏ".+)ŏĸāĂĀ đŏ ((ŏ05,!/ŏ+"ŏ.++ü*#ŏ * ŏ .,!*0.5

฀

PHONE FOR OBLIGATION FREE QUOTATION

Lawn Mowing/Edging Ride-on Mowing

V Public Notices and Event

C1072232-JJ4-13

AND STORAGE • Local, Country & Interstate • Antiques & Pianos a speciality • Cartons & Porta-robes for hire or sale • Full packing available

C62885-BG24-8

LEIGH HUNTER REMOVALS

V Roofing 12447720-LB18-20

V Painters/Decorators

12358644-RC29-17

V Furniture Removals

Get 10% Discount Use code: EMPDISC

Fill your position online ZZZ QHWZRUNFODVVL´HGV FRP DX berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

SPORT

Welcome back, WGCA...

By sports editor Russell Bennett After a year like no other, this is shaping up to be a West Gippsland cricket season like no other - but at least our great summer sport is back.

It might not quite look the same, and the approach to it might be a little different, but it’s back.

The Covid pandemic has had a devastating impact on the community in all kinds of ways, but from this Saturday cricket returns as a means for those participating and watching on to take their minds off things for a while - at least a few hours a week.

The pandemic ended the 2019/20 season in the cruellest of ways, ruling a line through the season after Kooweerup and Pakenham had won their respective semi-finals, which would have set up yet another mouth-watering chapter of their famous Premier grade grand final rivalry.

With Kooweerup finishing on top of the ladder and Pakenham third, the Demons were awarded the premiership - as all the highestplaced grand final qualifiers were throughout the grades.

It was the only way to do it, once it became clear the grand finals wouldn’t be played.

The Demons earned their top-place finish.

They were the most consistent of any group throughout the season, but yet WGCA fans couldn’t help but wonder just what could have happened on another grand final weekend between two such incredible opponents.

The 2020/21 season still feels the impact of the pandemic, with a delayed start, and hygiene and public health measures in place.

This will be a campaign made up solely of one-day games, which could lead to the field of contenders growing beyond the competition benchmarks of recent seasons.

While Kooweerup and Pakenham have the proven consistency and discipline over the longer two-day game, a whole host of other sides have the potential to click in the one-day format. Most of them have the star-power to cause some real headaches when they get it right.

The key, though, will be getting it right when it counts most.

Cardinia finished well off the pace in seventh last year, but this year the Bulls have a assembled a much deeper, more potent squad to once again try and match it with the WGCA’s best on a more consistent basis. Clyde and Tooradin, likewise, have the pools of all-

Russell Lehman claimed his second Terry Stephenson Medal in a brilliant all-around campaign in 2019/20. He’ll yet again be one of the competition’s biggest stars - this time in a full one-day season. 206049 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS around talent to turn to with both bat and ball, while the likes of Cranbourne Meadows loom as a real dark horse. Their talent, particularly with the bat in the shorter format, is undeniable. But, again, will it click?

Upper Beaconsfield makes its return to the WGCA’s top flight in place of the relegated, rebuilding Devon Meadows, while Merinda Park’s dyed-in-the-wool star Daniel McCalm-

an keeps rolling up and valiantly taking his side with him for the ride.

Another key change this season - and one that could be a lasting change beyond just 2020/21 - is the implementation of the semifinal/preliminary final/grand final structure that rewards the top two sides with a double chance.

But yet, the more things change, the more

they could well stay the same. It’s up to the remaining six sides to prove otherwise and find a way past Kooweerup or Pakenham, because they’re the benchmarks for a reason.

As we said last season - ah, WGCA cricket... it’s great to have you back. Finally.

Pick up a copy of this week’s PakenhamBerwick Gazette for a full rundown of what to expect from each Premier XI this season.

Warriors continue to battle on in search of brighter days

By Lance Jenkinson The Casey Warriors are hopeful of brighter days ahead with Victoria slowly emerging from months of Covid lockdown.

The Warriors took a big hit over winter, with a number of sponsors pulling the plug due to their own financial stresses.

Warriors president Numa Daniel has a big task of re-connecting with all key stakeholders in the coming months to ensure the club emerges from the height of the pandemic on a solid footing.

“We’ve got to keep moving forward,” he said.

“We’ll start putting a few things together now and see what the plans are going forward.”

Good people make clubs like the Casey Warriors, so the first port of call will be to get every member back on board and reignite that passion for the game in 2021.

That can only happen when the Warriors have a Covid-safe plan, something that will need to be in place before preseason can start.

“We’re not allowed down there [Clyde Recreation Reserve] until we put in a proposal of what our plans are with Covid rules,” Daniel said.

“We’ll work with the council and work out a plan within those Covid laws.

“We can set up some kind of system to get on the track straight away and start training berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

The Casey Warriors masters players will be eager to get back on to the field in 2021.

Picture: SUPPLIED and do player registrations and all that.”

It has been a successful era for the Casey Warriors.

The senior men’s team is often in the discussion at the pointy end of the NRL Victoria first grade season.

They were champions in 2015 and runners up in 2014, ‘16 and ‘17.

Junior numbers have swelled in recent seasons and some elite Warriors talent has found its way on to NRL rosters.

When Covid-19 struck and wiped out the

NRL Victoria season, it left the Warriors to wonder what might have been for 2020.

To rub further salt into the wounds, there could be another blow for rugby league in Victoria on the horizon with word out of league headquarters that funding from the NRL could be cut for representative team, the Victorian Thunderbolts.

If the Thunderbolts are removed, it will hurt the pathway for elite young rugby league players in the state.

“They need to keep the funding going to-

wards that,” Daniel said.

“All the local talent born and bred here in Melbourne might be looking somewhere interstate if not, and that makes it hard because their families are still here and they would have to move away.

“We had a couple of players that had left and got quite homesick and ended up coming back because the family was not there to push them and support them.”

Casey is proud of its standout players who have gone to the next level.

The Warriors had players in the youth systems of the Brisbane Broncos, Canberra Raiders and Canterbury Bulldogs.

“They’re in the Reserve grade, hopefully pushing towards the senior ranks,” Daniel said.

“It’s always a plan from when we get them at a young age to develop them so they can push their way to NRL if they’re serious.”

Daniel has called on the NRL to back elite player development programs in Victoria.

Originally from Sydney, Daniel feels as though there is an ‘us against them’ mentality when it comes to rugby league down south.

“We’re like foreigners to them,” he said with a laugh.

“That’s the way it is up there.

“Maybe with Melbourne Storm having been dominant, it’s just a bit of jealousy.

“They should be looking to grow the game here.”

Thursday, 12 November, 2020

|

STAR NEWS 25

SPORT

Cricket returns to metro Melbourne

By Nick Creely It’s been one long wait.

But finally, that familiar - yet iconic - summer sound of a cricket ball pinging off the willow is back.

With the recent announcement by the Victorian State Government confirming that the 25-kilometre rule and ‘Ring of Steel’ around metropolitan Melbourne has been removed, metro cricket competitions around the traps are now steadily preparing for a season like no other.

And in the south east and Gippsland regions, there is plenty of cricket set to be enjoyed for spectators over the coming weeks.

Most notably, the West Gippsland Cricket Association (WGCA) season officially starts this Saturday with the local community set to flock to grounds to get a glimpse at community sport for the first time in almost nine months.

There’s plenty of games of significant interest in the Premier division to start the season, with a clash between bitter rivals Cardinia and reigning premier Kooweerup a genuine blockbuster to begin 2020/21.

Upper Beaconsfield, which has returned to the top-flight of the WGCA once again, has a big challenge ahead when it hosts Pakenham.

Tooradin will also take on Clyde, while Cranbourne Meadows and Merinda Park will do battle at Donnelly Reserve.

After a highly-successful Covid Cup in the lead-in to the regular season, the Warragul and District Cricket Association (WDCA) will officially kick off this Saturday after restrictions between Melbourne and regional Victoria were lifted earlier this week.

All the WGCA’s grades will kick off on Saturday 206261 It’s set to be a highly-contested Division 1 season once again, with Western Park undoubtedly going to go in as competition favourites after a stunning Covid Cup performance.

Round 1 this Saturday will see Buln Buln and Hallora go toe-to-toe, Western Park will travel to take on Neerim District, and Yarragon plays host to Ellinbank, while Warragul is at home against Drouin.

The Mornington Peninsula Cricket Association (MPCA) - which, like the WGCA, will be played purely as a one-day season - also kicks off this weekend, with local outfit Pearcedale looking to bounce back from a tough few seasons.

The Panthers were relegated from the Peninsula Division last season and will now enter District under captain-coach Shayne Gillings, and will kick off its season against Hastings at Thomas Barclay Oval.

But the club has been significantly bol-

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

stered by the return of quick Sam Frawley and batsmen Nathan Prosser, Brad Trotter, Luke Jennings and Billy Kennedy, as well as the recruitment of Shaun Donnelly from Kooweerup, all-rounder Nick Marshall from Somerville, and Luke Adams from Tooradin.

But the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association (VSDCA) season, with local clubs Noble Park and Endeavour Hills, kicks off on Saturday, 21 November, alongside fellow Turf competition the Dandenong District Cricket Association (DDCA).

The Victorian Premier Cricket Men’s season starts on Saturday, 28 November, with the women’s Premier Cricket season to begin on Sunday, 22 November.

Pick up a copy of next week’s PakenhamBerwick Gazette for the full season previews for the DDCA Turf 1, Turf 2 and Turf 3 grades, as well as Premier Cricket clubs Dandenong and Casey-South Melbourne.

Get ready to play ball at Casey After the premature end to its season, and a long lockdown, the Casey Softball Association finally has the go-ahead to start playing softball again.

Juniors will return to play this Saturday, 14 November. The association is running the first day back as a fun day/’Bring a Friend’ day to get back to the normality of playing softball and familiarise with how the new Covid return to play restrictions will work.

Any juniors (16-and-under) who are interested in playing are encouraged to come along between 9am and 12pm.

The Casey Softball Association is anticipating the possible return to senior games on Saturday, 28 November, but the date is still to be confirmed by the State Government and local council. All games will be held under the Covid ‘Return to Play’ restrictions.

The Casey Softball Association has juniors, men’s, and women’s competitions for all ages and abilities, from brand new players to experienced - with 90 per cent of games played at Sweeney Reserve at the same time every week.

The sport is one that suits all of the family, with the Casey Softball Association boasting great clubs, coaches and facilities for all.

Those interested in playing should contact the Casey Softball Association via its Facebook page ‘Casey Softball Association’, or by sending an email to caseysoftball.vic@gmail.com.

The race for spots heats right up at Endeavour Hills

By Lance Jenkinson Competition for spots in the Endeavour Hills first XI is going to be fierce in a shortened Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association (VSDCA) pre-season.

There will be no pre-conceived notions for coach Nick Bole-Brown and skipper Chris Pereira about who fits where in the Eagles’ pecking order, with training form and practice match figures to weigh more heavily than usual in the thinking of the all-new leadership.

While there will be consultation with club veterans to help assess previous seasons by individuals, Bole-Brown and Pereira will keep an open mind and get their own gauge on players in the days leading up to the season opener against Brighton on 21 November before making final calls on selection.

“Without giving too much away, the side could change a fair bit from last year,“ BoleBrown said.

“We could have four or five new guys in the ones.

“Everyone is on the same level.“ A battle for places in the first XI is healthy for Endeavour Hills.

The Eagles were Twenty20 champions last summer and just missed out on the finals, but their lack of top-end depth hurt at times in the longer format and ultimately cost them a spot in the finals.

Not only have the Eagles recruited strongly, they are hoping to build naturally from within.

Bole-Brown is expecting the Eagles youngsters to command positions in the top side.

“The new players we’ve got across are very keen and want to perform,“ he said.

“Some of the kids that came back from last year are bigger and stronger and have improved.

“They’re the improvement that we want because ideally you want to promote from within the club.“ Pereira has returned to Endeavour Hills to captain the firsts.

The veteran fast bowler is showing no signs of slowing down in his late-30s.

26 STAR NEWS

|

Nick Bole-Brown will oversee VSDCA club Endeavour Hills as coach this summer.

“He’s come back very fit and raring to go,“ Bole-Brown said.

“He’s pushing through nicely [at training].

“I think he’s probably fitter than he’s ever been.“ A huge off-season signing for Endeavour Hills was young batsman Austin Heldt, brought in from North Dandenong in the DDCA. A former Victorian under-19 representative, Heldt has played at Premier Cricket level, including a fleeting stint in District first XI. “He’ll be a big in,“ Bole-Brown said.

It is not just the newly acquired first XI players that have Bole-Brown excited, but the “abundance“ of new faces at the club’s first

Thursday, 12 November, 2020

training session back last Monday night that will strengthen all XIs. The new-found depth across all the grades bodes well for top-to-bottom success.

“The threes and fours played finals last year, the twos finished off well and the ones won the T20 competition and were only a game or two outside the finals, but I think we’ve got more depth throughout the club in general, so they’ll have to fight for their spots,“ Bole-Brown said.

“Everyone is up and about, they expect a good season, I expect a good season - I just can’t wait for the first ball to be bowled now.“ Bole-Brown is perhaps the most significant acquisition for Endeavour Hills this off-season.

Picture: SUPPLIED The coach brings a wealth of knowledge to the role, having played at District level in Melbourne, Adelaide and Brisbane, while rising to South Australian second XI status in his time in the city of churches.

At 55, Bole-Brown’s love of cricket remains strong.

“It’s been 47 years straight of playing cricket and I still love it,“ he said.

“It doesn’t matter how old you are, you’ve still got the competitive spirit when you go on to the ground.“ Endeavour Hills’ first competitive game will be a practice match against Noble Park on Saturday. berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

SPORT

New sides enter the fold

By Nick Creely AFL Outer East is set to welcome two new teams into its senior women’s competition in 2021, with Pakenham and Beaconsfield crossing over from the South Eastern Women’s.

Joining fellow Cardinia-based club Officer, which joined the competition last season after also being part of the south east, the two clubs will now become officially aligned with their club’s men’s teams into the future.

After establishing a senior women’s side in 2016, and enjoying premiership success along the way in 2017 in the club’s Division 2 team, the move makes sense according to Beaconsfield president Troy Robinson, who praised AFL Outer East for its exciting competition.

“The AFL Outer East is building a really exciting competition, which we’ve seen with the enthusiasm they’ve put into the men’s, and it’s really important for us that our women’s program stays aligned with our men’s,” Robinson told the AFL Outer East website.

“We’re excited to come in and make an impact in 2021. We have an exciting list and a fantastic mix of youth and experience.”

Pakenham, which is still inexperienced in women’s football, first established a senior side in 2018 and continue to build strongly with significant interest from the community.

Lions operations manager Tom Dalton also said it was important to align both the men and women teams moving forward.

“We want to be more united as a club and this will allow our fans to be able to support both teams on the same day,” he said.

“We think we’ll be competitive and we’re excited to provide a better pathway for our junior girls.

“We’re looking forward to a different competition and a chance to play against different

Beaconsfield has joined the AFL Outer East Women’s competition. 172647 teams on different grounds.”

The Outer East will run its first standalone women’s competition in 2021 as well as an under-19s women’s competition, after working previously with the Eastern Football League, and regional general manager Aaron Bailey said it was exciting to see the growth of

DDCA makes some key junior announcements

By Nick Creely The Dandenong District Cricket Association (DDCA) has made a series of key announcements relating to the junior cricket season, with cricket in Victoria preparing for its much anticipated season-start later this month.

After the DDCA announced that senior cricket would begin on Saturday 21 November, the association has confirmed that season start dates for its junior cricket competitions, as well as announcements regarding its junior representative teams in the Victorian Metropolitan Cricket Union (VMCU).

The DDCA has confirmed that all Under 10 and Under 12 junior matches will commence from Friday 27 November, All Under 14 and Under 16 matches will commence from Saturday 28 November, while the Under 18 competition will start on Sunday 29 November.

All of the DDCA Junior Girls competition grades will start on Tuesday 1 December.

DDCA junior cricket is on the way back. 205548 berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

With the VMCU Carnival just around the corner, too, the DDCA has announced its representative coaches for their respective sides, with some renowned names set to lead the next generation of young cricketers in the south-east area.

Beaconsfield captain-coach Nathan Goodes has been announced as DDCA Under 18 head coach, with Craig Hookey to serve as assistant coach of the side.

In the Under 16 side, Shane D’Rozario has been named as head coach, with Peter Mathison locked in as the assistant coach In the Under 14A side, John Mark has been locked in as head coach, with Cooper Fawkes to serve as assistant coach, while Gerry Van Der Nest will be head coach of the Under 14B side GP Chadha will be the head coach of the Under 14 Girls, Rodney Keyaerts has been locked in as Under 12A head coach, with Bevan Tisdale as assistant coach, while Dean Jones will be head coach of the Under 12B side.

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Picture: ROB CAREW

women’s football in the region.

“We’re delighted to be expanding women’s football in the Outer East with the inclusion of Pakenham and Beaconsfield in the senior women’s competition, and the introduction of an U19s competition,” he said.

“Both clubs have established women’s programs which will add considerate depth to our women’s competition in 2021 and beyond.

“It gives us the opportunity to increase women’s football participation in our league and bring the Outer East community together through double headers and new rivalries.”

He’s set to continue his rise

By Lance Jenkinson Kyle Adnam bounced around from club to club before landing on his feet with South East Melbourne Phoenix in the National Basketball League last season.

The energetic point guard spent time with Adelaide 36ers, Wollongong Hawks, Melbourne United and Sydney Kings, but it all clicked into place with the Phoenix.

An NBL champion with the Kings in 2018, the Phoenix saw Adnam’s experience to be crucial heading into their inaugural year.

Adnam produced his best season as a backup point guard, averaging 9.07 points and 2.57 assists in 16.86 minutes per game - career highs in the NBL in all categories.

The 26-year-old’s impact is bigger than what the fans see on the court.

In a short space of time, Adnam has become a leader in the Phoenix locker room.

Last week, Phoenix coach Simon Mitchell gave the home grown talent acknowledgement of his impact on the team, naming him co-captain alongside Adam Gibson and Mitch Creek.

It has been a tough road to this point for Adnam and it could not be easy moving from state to state to find your home, but honours like team captaincy make the journey worthwhile.

“If you asked me probably five or 10 years ago if I was going to captain an NBL team and be involved in that, I would’ve been pinching myself,” Adnam said.

“It was definitely a goal and just continue trying to tick off as many of those as I can.

“It’s just a massive honour.”

The captaincy shows the strides Adnam has taken in his game on and off the court.

The ultimate team player, he has always given his all when subbed into games, which has made him a fan favourite at every stop along the way.

He is also ever willing to help out a teammate.

“I guess I’m just more proud that it kind of shows the work that I’ve put in in that area in leadership and trying to help others,” Adnam said.

“I’m super stoked and can’t wait to help the club grow alongside some pretty good leaders as well.”

Adnam is thrilled to be able to work along-

side Gibson and Creek in the leadership roles.

The trio were teammates at the 36ers in Adnam’s first year as a pro.

While Adnam will have the C next to his name, nothing changes for him and he will continue to drive high standards at training and on game day.

“Doing what I’ve done has got me here,” Adnam said.

“I think one thing about being a great leader is you’re always learning and constantly growing.”

After being involved with five NBL teams and the Nelson Giants in the New Zealand NBL, Adnam knows how varying the cultures can be at different clubs.

He has been impressed with how the Phoenix culture has evolved in a short space of time and the players willingness to accept and give out constructive criticism because they are keen to get better faster.

“I’m going to challenge everyone else as they’re going to challenge me,” Adnam said.

“I expect someone to pull me up and vice versa and I know ‘Gibbo’ and ‘Creeky’ will.

“What we’ve built here is a very open forum.

“To be one of the leaders, I just hope that I can drive that culture and drive what this team is about.”

Having grown up locally, playing junior basketball with Mount Evelyn and attending Mt Lilydale Mercy College, Adnam is hoping to inspire the next generation of basketballers in the region.

“It’s somewhere I grew up playing basketball and hopefully I can inspire a few kids like myself growing up in this area to do the same,” he said.

Adnam has been praised by coach Mitchell in recent weeks for the enormous steps he has taken during the off-season.

Having a clean bill of health following Melbourne’s coronavirus lockdown has helped.

“In terms of physical and fitness, it’s definitely the fittest I’ve ever been,” Adnam said.

“I’m feeling really good, definitely in a great spot right now and I hope to continue that.

“We’ve got another 10 weeks of preseason, so I’m going to try and drag every inch out of myself that I can and hopefully come in best prepared as I can for NBL 21.”

Thursday, 12 November, 2020

|

STAR NEWS 27

Audi Vorsprung durch Technik

The Audi Q Sales Event is now on.

Purchase prior to December 24 and we’ll include:

Complimentary registration, stamp duty and CTP^

Complimentary 5 years/75,000km scheduled servicing*

5 year manufacturer’s warranty#

Book your test drive today at Audi Barry Bourke.

755 Princes Highway, Berwick | Tel. 9707 2222 | audibarrybourke.com.au *Complimentary scheduled servicing for 5 years from the date of first registration or 75,000kms (whichever occurs first) as per the manufacturer’s recommended scheduled servicing specifications. Excludes wear and tear items and any additional work or components required. #5-year manufacturer’s warranty commences on the date of first registration and warranty on demonstrator vehicles only applies for the balance of the 5-year term. Warranty terms, conditions and exclusions apply. *#^Available on new and demonstrator (registered on or after 01/01/20) Audi Q2, Q3 (excludes Q3 Sportback), Q5, SQ5, Q7, SQ7, Q8 and SQ8 stock vehicles purchased between 1/11/2020 and 24/12/2020 and delivered by 31/12/2020. While stock lasts. Not available in conjunction with any other offer. Audi Australia may withdraw, change or extend all offers. LMCT7522

12469876-RC46-20

28 STAR NEWS

|

Thursday, 12 November, 2020

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au