BERWICK
berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
Thursday, 2 December, 2021
@StarNews_SE
/berwickstarnews
40¢ Inc. GST
Greens pitch for south east
Off track future for old horses
Berwick to the big time
PAGE 2
PAGE 5
PAGE 18
SPORT
12496498-DL22-21
Cops hear community concerns
Libraries to deliver joy Casey Cardinia Libraries are encouraging local residents to deliver joy to those in need this festive period by leaving donations at their local library. Each library in the area has partnered with a charity or community group to receive donations of toys, non-perishable items and toiletries. Read more on page 8
Customer Experience Officers Tim Cuthell and Natalina Colmanet with Keith Vethaak from Transit (centre) at Bunjil Place Library. 259582 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS
Swift’s star rises Proving he’s at the top of the Australian country music scene, Berwick-based artist Andrew Swift has received two nominations in the 2021 Toyota Golden Guitar Awards. Swift’s album, The Art of Letting Go, released by ABC Music in June, has earned him nods in the Alt Country Album of the Year and Male Artist of the Year categories. The nominations mean a lot to Swift, who like most musicians, have had a tough 18 months of Covid-lockdowns.
“I was fortunate on my last album to get a few nominations and win two Golden Guitars but to get a few industry nods this time just means a whole lot more because I haven’t been able to get out on the road and see how people have reacted to the album,” Swift said. “When you release an album, you want to tour as much as you can but I haven’t been able to do that with this one which has been tricky.” The first four singles from The Art of Letting Go have all reached the top 10 on the National
Country Music Airplay Charts, with the album debuting at number one on the ARIA Australian Country Chart. Swift, who grew up in Beaconsfield, said the album explored themes of relationships, but not always just romantic ones. “There’s a song in there called One Breath at a Time which is all about being there for a friend when things are too much and they need a shoulder to cry on,” he said. He also wrote a lockdown song, despite promises he wouldn’t.
“I swore black and blue that I wasn’t going to write a lockdown song but I did,” he said, laughing. “It’s the last track on the album called Holding My Tongue. It’s more inspired by seeing a lot of social media last year and seeing friends and family fighting with each other. “My thinking was that my relationships with those people are worth more than any difference of opinion so I had to hold my tongue for the sake of the friendships.” Continued on page 5 12497981-NG23-21
By Shelby Brooks
Will & Affordable and Compassionate
03 9562 1855 155 Sladen St, Cranbourne
12387046-EPJ16-18
Serving Melbourne for over 75 years
Deceased Estate Lawyers
DIVORCE
Preparation of Wills and Power of Attorney Kit
CONTESTED WILLS
Prompt and expert preparation of probate applications
Hundreds of successful cases on no win–no fee basis
CALL 0419 993 800
www.nealcollinlawyers.com.au
www.manningsfunerals.com.au 12517231-SG43-21
OPEN FOR BUSINESS! For in office consults. Online consults still available. Pakenham, Drouin, Yarra Junction and Narre Warren Offices | P 5941 5166
NEWS
Tik Tok tolerance project
Narre Warren and Dandenong police officers meet with local residents at Eden Rise Village for a coffee and a chat.
Cops listen By Jamie Salter Narre Warren and Dandenong police officers say hoon driving is currently one of the biggest issues affecting residents. On November 26, police officers held an hour long coffee with a cop meeting at Berwick’s Eden Rise Village to shout locals a cup of coffee and hear their concerns. Police said about 30 people stopped to share their thoughts, with some eager residents handing over maps marking hot spots for hoon driving. Southern Metro Unit Leading Senior Constable Frank Bailey said thefts were another major issue in the City of Casey and reminded property owners to lock their homes and vehicles at night. “We have a lot of burglaries at homes because people get complacent and leave their homes unlocked and their keys in sight,“ Sen
Constable Bailey said. He said crime prevention was everyone’s responsibility. “If you go outdoors, be in a group, don’t go late at night and stay in well-lit areas,“ Sen Constable Bailey said. “Young people are more gutsy and will do things now that they didn’t used to.“ Some common crimes in the area involve stolen property including number plates, alcohol and catalytic converters that contain valuable metals. Police reminded residents to ’lock it or lose it’. Taking valuables out of vehicles and making it look like someone is home at night or when on holidays were key methods to preventing crime. Non-urgent crimes and events can now be reported by phoning the police assistance line on 131 444 or by visiting police.vic.gov.au
A group of talented students from Cranbourne East Secondary College have come up with a plan to tackle racism in their community. Their idea has been chosen as the winning entry from a community safety project supported by Federation University, Victoria Police, and the City of Casey. The students identified racial, verbal and physical abuse as a key issue of concern to them and proposed the creation of a council-backed TikTok campaign to stem intolerance. They referenced attacks and abuse directed towards the Asian community in relation to the origins of Covid-19 as examples of racism that concerned them. The campaign would encourage those who have suffered racial abuse of any type to share their experiences on the popular social media platform and with the greater Casey community. City of Casey acting manager for safer communities Nik Filips said Casey were excited to collaborate with the winning group. “We look forward to working with the winning team to see their pitch come to fruition,” Filips said. “Due to the success of this project, the City of Casey will continue to support the project and work with local schools, students, Victoria Police and Federation University again next year.” The Fed Casey Youth Safety Project gave Year 10 students from 22 local schools the opportunity to share their ideas on how to create a safer city. As part of the project, they met Federation University criminologist Dr Rachel Hale and were supported with mentoring from third year criminology and criminal j Finalists were chosen from the submitted videos and attended a virtual presenta-
Cranbourne East students are encouraging victims of racial abuse to share their stories Picture: UNSPLASHED on TikTok. 259710 tion night where they presented to a judging panel made up of representatives from City of Casey, Victoria Police and Federation University. Runners up were groups from Nossal High School and Berwick College. Federation University Berwick Head of Campus Kathy Racunica hopes the campaign will encourage more students and teenagers to get involved and contribute to a better community. “By partnering with the City of Casey and Victoria Police, we can help nurture a safe and prosperous community where our young people are empowered to have their say on local issues,” Racunica said. “The ideas were fantastic, and all participants should be extremely proud of their hard work.”
GIVE a year of
JOY!
UNLIMITED ENTRY TO THREE ZOOS EXCLUSIVE EVENTS AND DISCOUNTS KIDS JOIN FREE*
Gift a ZOO MEMBERSHIP zoo.org.au/gift *On adult memberships
12523840-CG49-21
2 STAR NEWS
|
Thursday, 2 December, 2021
berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
Debt ambush near-deadly By Cam Lucadou-Wells A 23-year-old Cranbourne man has been jailed after repeatedly stabbing a victim during a pack ambush in broad daylight in Hammond Road Dandenong. Junior Fualausia, with three associates, critically wounded the then-24-year-old victim and left him for dead on the afternoon of 27 January 2020. “It was pure good fortune for your victim and for you that he survived,” Victorian County Court sentencing judge Michael Tinney told Fualausia on 23 November. At the time, Fualausia allegedly owed the victim a drug debt. That day, after being pressed for the money several times, Fualausia texted the victim: “I got your money bro sorry, are you able to swing by?” When the victim arrived outside the apartments on Hammond Road, he was jumped by four masked males and repeatedly punched, kicked and struck with a light pole. Fualausia later told an associate he’d stabbed the victim “everywhere”. He was sure that he’d killed him. With 12 stab wounds to his neck, torso and limbs, the victim stumbled back into his car. He was struggling to breathe and with blood “bubbling” on his chest, according to one of the bystanders who came to his aid. His four attackers walked away. The victim, who suffered significant blood loss and collapsed lungs, was given CPR by
Picture: GARY SISSONS
Victoria Police at the scene of the stabbing in January 2020. 203872 paramedics. He was taken unconscious to Dandenong Hospital, underwent surgery and spent three days in ICU at The Alfred hospital. His deep stab wounds had punctured lungs, liver capsule, muscles, a jugular vein and broken a rib. He suffered ongoing issues with his lungs, nerve damage, anxiety and post-traumatic stress. “You’ve changed his life forever,” Judge Tinney said of the “frightening” attack. “He will never forget the day that you came
close to ending his life.” Fualausia made an early guilty plea and showed “limited” remorse, but there were “not too many” mitigating factors in this case. At the time of the stabbing, Fualausia was on a community corrections order. He had long-standing drug issues and a short criminal history of assaults, driving and car theft offences. “I certainly won’t write you off,” Judge Tinney said.
“I am prepared to accept you do have realistic prospects of rehabilitation.” But the judge said he also had to consider the seriousness of the “extraordinary act of violence”. Fualausia was jailed for up to eight-and-ahalf years. He will be eligible for parole after five-and-a-half years. It includes 417 days already served in presentence custody. One alleged co-offender has been charged with the attack.
MPs brainstormed ‘Covid story’ to explain cash By Cam Lucadou-Wells Former ALP powerbroker Adem Somyurek was accused of “brainstorming” a story to explain footage of him withdrawing cash from an ATM to pay for other members’ party memberships. The IBAC Operation Watts inquiry had heard the practice was utilised by several Labor MPs as part of a branch-stacking regime. It played a tapped phone call between Mr Somyurek and Andrew Landeryou discussing the footage screened on 60 Minutes’ expose The Faceless Man two days earlier. Mr Somyurek had been filmed withdrawing cash and handing it to staffer Nick McLennan in a car park. On 16 June 2020, Mr Landeryou and Mr Somyurek discuss possible explanations, including that Mr Somyurek acted out of “Corona paranoia”. “There are any number of explanations around that that are quite OK but it boils down to the forms had to be lodged by a certain time and you were lodging them,” Mr Landeryou says. Mr Somyurek suggests: “Or the gentleman that received the money could not leave his house because of Coronavirus. Yeah, that’s
Adem Somyurek on day three of his evidence at the IBAC inquiry. probably (a) better one. “That’s probably the best one, isn’t it.” Mr Landeryou said: “You could have gone and visited to collect the cash, but during Corona you’ve been very paranoid about it and you thought it’s much better to go to the ATM.” There was less chance that ATM money would be contaminated, Mr Landeryou mused. At the inquiry on 12 November 2021, Mr Somyurek had said he got out the cash because a staffer was anxious about Covid. “(The staffer) rocked up with rubber
gloves and she looked all… apprehensive about touching anything. “So I got it myself… And I did intend to get reimbursed for it.” Counsel assisting IBAC Chris Carr asserted the conversation with Mr Landeryou was the “genesis of the Covid story”. “This is where you are brainstorming what story you are going to give to explain the facts that you apprehend will be publicly known? “What’s the best explanation we can give? “What’s the best lie we can come up with.” Mr Somyurek responded that it was “not a story”. The “critical” issue was he earlier admitted to the inquiry he paid for the memberships himself. IBAC Commissioner Robert Redlich noted Mr Somyurek had come a long way since the start of his evidence. “It’s only been in more recent times that you have been willing to acknowledge things that previously you were not prepared to do?” Mr Somyurek said: “And yeah it’s liberating.” In his evidence, he’d said he’d “lost perspective” in which taxpayer-funded staffers and MPs were diverted into an inter-factional “war”.
He agreed that staffers rose to the ranks of MPs through branch-stacking and factional patronage. And that this distorted who gets an opportunity to stand to be MPs. There was a culture to misuse taxpayer resources for factional ends, he agreed. “It reproduces itself. But the question is how you’re going to fix it. “I came in, I knew nothing about it, I observed and I was socialised into it, and I continued the practice.” Mr Somyurek’s four days of evidence concluded on 12 November. Somali Australian Council of Victoria secretary Dr Hussein Haraco was scheduled to front the hearing on 26 November. But because of ongoing medical reasons, he did not appear, IBAC stated. Dr Haraco, an electorate officer for Mr Somyurek, had previously postponed IBAC appearances in late October on medical grounds. The Operation Watts public hearings have closed for 2021. IBAC stated that the investigation is ongoing.
12492722-CG18-21
berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
Thursday, 2 December, 2021
|
STAR NEWS 3
THE LOWDOWN Q&A
with Cranbourne West Primary School principal Andrew Bergmeier
Tell us a fun fact about yourself! I am the world’s worst singer but I don’t care! What are you most passionate about? I am most passionate about my family as I am so proud of them and constantly amazed that I helped to create them. What do you love about being a principal? It is such a fulfilling job on many different levels. I love helping and observing the staff and students grow their capacity so that they have a great chance to be successful in life. What is your experience in the industry? I started in 1974 at Collingwood Education Centre and have spent time in schools such as Keysborough PS (Chapel Road since closed), Wallacedale North PS (since closed), Cardinina PS, Devon Meadows PS, Clyde PS, Officer PS and now Cranbourne West PS. Who is the best person you’ve worked with? The staff at my current school are amazing and always go above and beyond to provide the students with the best experiences that they can. What would your last meal be? I probably wouldn’t feel like eating! However, I love seafood. What was your most memorable moment? Each of my children’s births provided unique experiences that are quite memorable. What was your favourite subject in school? I loved any of the humanities subjects at school. I really enjoy reading and history. What event past or present would you like to witness? The symbolism around the dismantling of the Berlin wall was extremely poignant and strong. Which three guests, dead or alive, would you invite to dinner? I would invite three authors: Trent Dalton as I have just read his latest book
Cranbourne West Primary School principal Andrew Bergmeier. Love Stories which was an incredible experience; Jeffrey Archer as he has the ability to weave stories like no other author I have read; and Matthew Reilly because he has the ability to weave extreme action and history into an exciting novel. What are you currently listening to, watching or reading? Currently I am reading a Chris Ryan thriller. How would you describe your fashion sense? My fashion is long sleeved shirt in winter and short sleeved shirt in summer. I am at an age where long pants are preferable. Have you had a pet that has made an impact on your life? I love dogs and we have had dogs all our married life. My favourite was a golden retriever who passed away on Australia Day two years ago. Our current dog is also beautiful. He is a Groodle with a really affectionate nature.
THREE … facts about David Gulpilil Dalaithngu
1
David Dalaithngu was born on July 1, 1953 in Arnhem Land, Northern Territory, Australia.
2
The acclaimed actor worked under the name David Gulpili and was known for his movies Crocodile Dundee (1986), RabbitProof Fence (2002) and Australia (2008) and was awarded the Member of the Order of Australia in 1987.
3
He died at age 68 on November 29, 2021, following a four-year battle with lung cancer.
Picture: SUPPLIED
If you had to compete on MasterChef, what dish would you cook? My favourite and easiest dish would be a stir fry with random amounts of spices. I love cooking with honey to provide a bit of sweetness in spicy dishes. Where is your dream holiday destination? Believe it or not, at home on my deck. However, any resort in the world, so long as I don’t have to do anything. Preferably by the sea. What were you like as a kid? I grew up in a small country town, had enormous freedom, no TV, no devices, one radio station (the ABC) and so long as I was home by sundown, all was good. What is your favourite colour and why? Apparently I look best in blue. Do you consider yourself an extrovert or an introvert? Most people see me as an extrovert but I think I am a mixture.
We’re building big near you and there will be transport disruptions As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re building the Metro Tunnel, creating space in the City Loop to run more trains to and from the suburbs. We’re also removing 85 dangerous and congested level crossings, with 54 already gone. Buses replace trains in both directions Cranbourne and Pakenham lines
9pm to last train each night, 29 Nov to 2 Dec
Caulfield to Dandenong
8.30pm 3 Dec to 1am 4 Dec
Caulfield to Westall
9pm to last train each night, 6 to 8 Dec
Westall to Cranbourne and Pakenham
8.30pm to last train each night, 13 to 15 Dec
Flinders Street to Oakleigh
From 1am 4 to 5 Dec From 8.30pm 10 to 12 Dec First train to 8.30pm, 15 Dec 16 to 23 Dec
Flinders Street to Caulfield
Princes and South Gippsland Highways, Dandenong South
Until late 2021
Road or lanes closed
Clyde Road, Berwick
Until early 2022
Lane closed southbound between Reserve Street and Enterprise Avenue
12525503-SN49-21
Road disruptions: Closed roads and lanes
Lane closed northbound between Sir Gustav Nossal Boulevard and Jane Street
Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne
4 STAR NEWS
|
Thursday, 2 December, 2021
1397
Find a detailed list of disruptions at bigbuild.vic.gov.au
berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
South east Greens’ pitch By Cam Lucadou-Wells The Greens have taken aim at ALP’s South East heartland ahead of the 2022 federal election. Former Greater Dandenong councillor Matthew Kirwan, who is standing for the Greens in the Bruce electorate, said the ALP “took for granted” and “neglected” their safe South East seats, and that Labor “gave up” on tackling inequality since the 1980s. On the other hand, Mr Kirwan said many in the South East did not understand the Greens. Nor did they know of his party’s stance on improving health, education, inequality and green jobs. He said the Greens had to be relevant by pitching “where people are at”. “They already know that Labor has left them behind but [are] not yet sold that we are the answer.” He and candidates Louisa Willoughby and Sujit Mathew recently appeared in an online panel Greening the Burbs where they discussed how to replicate the party’s inner-city traction in the South East growth corridor. Mr Mathew, who is standing for the seat of Holt, migrated to Australia in 2013 and lives in the “vibrant, multicultural” estates of Clyde North. He said many new migrants were young adults, young families who were disconnected from politics. They have no faith or trust in politicians. Their feedback was “politicians talk too
Green federal candidates Sujit Mathew (Holt), Louisa Willoughby (Hotham) and Matthew Kirwan Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS (Bruce). 257996 much and they don’t really listen to us”. Their interests included better universities and employment opportunities, as well as immigration and parent visa issues. Despite vast experience with the United
Nations, Mr Mathew was surprised how hard it was to land a job in Australia. The struggle for new, skilled arrivals to find a job had to be listened to, he said. Ms Willoughby, who is running in Hotham,
said she’d observed Greens volunteers starkly outnumbered at election booths. Labor’s diverse team of volunteers at polling booths were able to speak and connect with voters from a range of cultural backgrounds. “Having those conversations in their own languages is really key.” Ms Willoughby, a researcher who has volunteered for more than 15 years to help multilingual students, said the lack of federal funding for public education was doing “long term damage” to local communities. She said the Greens had policies to tackle disadvantage and inequality in diverse communities. Also on the panel, Greater Dandenong councillor Rhonda Garad said the Greens needed a “different approach” in the South East, tackling broader issues such as schools. She said without a perceived “viable” alternative, locals tended to “accept” ALP branchstacking and its “unethical use and abuse” of ethnic groups. Senator Lidia Thorpe said the Greens had to talk about how they would make Dandenong people’s lives better. Just speaking about net-zero emissions wouldn’t cut it, she said. In the coming election, Senator Thorpe held hopes of the Greens holding balance of power in the Senate. “We’re the only choice left in this country that will take us to a safe future.”
He’s Berwick’s golden boy Form page 1 Swift, who attended Beaconsfield Primary School and St Francis Xavier College, said his school years sparked his love of music, however, that love didn’t include the country genre for a while. His first few years as a musician were as a guitarist of a pop-punk band. “When I eventually started writing my own stuff and singing, people would say it had a bit of a country vibe to it,” he said. “Naturally, I would say don’t use that C word with me- I really thought it was a bad word. I was ignorant to what it was.” But trips to Tamworth with the City of Casey and Casey Radio changed that attitude. “I realised there was a whole lot more to country music than I thought there was. I realised how ignorant I had been,“ he said. “It was an epiphanous moment thinking this is where I want to be, I want to be a part of this community and family. I want to be involved.” He spent the next 18 months deep diving into the world of country. “I just let it all seep in so I could get some of those influences come through in my song writing,“ he said.
Berwick’s Andrew Swift has been nominated for two Golden Guitar Awards. “It’s only been since 2015 that I really found my feet and where I wanted to be and 2017 is when things started to happen for me.” As a testament to Swift’s success in the Australian music industry, his song Runaway Train has been featured on the 50th anniversary of the Golden Guitar Awards compilation album.
“I do feel its a documentation of history and I’m extremely honoured,“ he said. Swift has a small caravan park tour in the lead up to the Golden Guitar Awards (to be held in Tamworth on 22 January 2022) and hopes to finally host his album launch at the Hallam Hotel in February.
We have limited places available in kindergarten for our 2022 3-Year-Old and 4-Year-Old early learning programs. Find out how our world-class International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program and expert ELC staff can help your child flourish in their learning through action in our intimate learning spaces and classes.
“I think a lot of people are hungry for live music now,” he said. “It would be great for people to go out and see some live music and buy some merch or a CD. “The online store kept me afloat over the last 18 months, people have been really supportive.”
Non-Selective | Non-Denominational Small Classes | Co-Educational ELC and Junior School Dedicated Senior Girls and Boys Schools
12510985-JW36-21
berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
Thursday, 2 December, 2021
|
STAR NEWS 5
NEWS
OPINION
Library events back on track
LENSCAPE
If you haven’t been back to the library since Victoria emerged from lockdown, now is the perfect time, as Casey Cardinia Libraries releases its summer events guide. Casey Cardinia Libraries chief executive officer Beth Luppino said library members had been asking when events would to start up again. “The summer programs and events guide is out - check out a great range of activities to keep yourself and family entertained from December to March,“ she said. “When you visit from now until Christmas, please help us to Delivery Joy to people in need - we are accepting donations of nonperishables at all our libraries to pass on to the community and make this festive season a little brighter. “It’s time to reconnect with your library, and we cant wait to see you.“ A number of Christmas holiday events are set to be held across the Casey Cardinia Libraries, as well as author talks, book groups, the big summer reading program and regular story times, baby rhyme times and tinies times. A jam-packed school holiday program will also be on offer including cooking classes, origami workshops and bilingual story times. All events are free but bookings are essential and in line with Covid-19 regulations, visitors will need to check in and show proof of vaccination status. To get involved, visitevents.ccl.vic.gov.au
Summer the pooch at Paint a Pot, Narre Warren
Stay safe this summer My name is Nicholas Cowdery and I am in Year 6 at St Margaret’s Berwick Grammar School. This year, we are doing a school exhibition on any topic of our choice. My topic of choice was the detection of skin cancer and melanoma and how technology can assist.
SOCIALLY SPEAKING Remaining storm damage in the City of Casey is concerning local residents.
Pakenham Berwick Cranbourne Drouin
5941 4888 9707 5755 5996 6822 5625 2571
www.davidwbull.com.au
Australian owned family business since 1979.
1213066-EPJ04-16
David W Bull Funeral Directors Provide understanding care and personal service.
com.au
6 STAR NEWS
|
Use sunscreen and use it right, limit your time in the sun, wear sunglasses and make sure to wear clothing that shields you from the sun as much as you can. When applying sunscreen, make sure to apply SPF 50+ so you get the most protection. Thank you and stay safe this summer! Nicholas Cowdery, Berwick
THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN Thumbs down!
Thumbs down!
To the amount of roadworks in Casey - gridlocks everywhere.
To all the overgrown grass in the City of Casey. A bit scary when it’s snake and fire season.
Thumbs down! To all the dead tree branches blocking footpaths and covering nature strips.
Thumbs up! To all the lovely people who have been supporting me in my Christmas pudding collection in aid of BK2 Basics in Narre Warren.
Thumbs down! To the Monash Freeway.
Thumbs down! To Ballarto Road between South Gippsland Hwy and Clyde Five Ways Road.
Thumbs up! To the lovely lady that paid for my Maccas yesterday.
Thumbs down! To the all the rubbish now left on the nature strips.
NEWS
By Marcus Uhe
12452305-LN26-20
REAL ESTATE Email seren@starnewsgroup.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
The Primary Years Programme Exhibition is not only about the research component (which is conducted through websites and interviews) but is also about the action component. For my action, I have decided to raise awareness about the dangers of being in the sun, unprotected. As the summer is very close, here is a list of how to keep safe in the sun.
Youth Information Centres reopened
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
Visit networkclassifieds.com.au Email sales@networkclassifieds.com.au Phone 5945 0600
Here’s what our Facebook readers had to say about it: Adrian Lock: There appears to be a lack of council workers. Many parks and reserves have overgrown weeds that are going to be a huge snake issue as warmer weather comes. We are near Sweeney Reserve and I have never seen the parks left to this level of neglect. Melissa Rana: We had massive branch that blocked the road. People called, and we as neighbours had move it so we could get through - it’s still there. Jennifer Oakes: People need to ring council.
Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS
Thursday, 2 December, 2021
Two of the City of Casey’s Youth Information Centres have reopened. The centres at High Street in Cranbourne and Stuart Avenue in Hampton Park will be operating from 1.30pm – 5.15pm from Monday to Friday until Tuesday 21 December. City of Casey manager for child, youth and family Virginia Lloyd was excited to reopen the facilities which had been closed due to the pandemic. “The City of Casey is thrilled to have recently reopened its Youth Information Centres, in line with the latest advice from the Chief Health Officer regarding Covid-19,” Ms Lloyd said. “Our centres provide a safe and welcoming space for young people to visit during the day and after school, with exciting activities on of-
fer, as well as a range of programs for people to participate in. “We would encourage anyone aged 10-25 years to visit one of our centres for a chance to meet new people and make friends, with our youth centres offering practical support for young people, including advice on career pathways and opportunities following high-school.” The Narre Warren Youth Information Centre on Webb Street is offering youth counselling and support services by appointment only at this stage. As per the Victorian Government regulations, proof of vaccination or a valid medical exemption is required for anybody aged 16 and above who would like to attend the Youth Information Centres. For more information on the facilities head to casey.vic.gov.au/find-youth-informationcentres-services
Youth Information Centres at Cranbourne and Hampton Park reopened on Wednesday. 259346 Picture: UNSPLASHED berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
Keeping roadworkers safe The everyday dangers faced by Victorian roadside workers and first responders are at the centre of a new road safety campaign urging motorists to slow down. The campaign profiles five people who either work on the roads, or for emergency services, and highlights how their safety is at stake when people speed or drive dangerously past them. Using the popular Humans of the Road format across digital channels, the campaign aims to further raise awareness about the safety of first responders and roadside workers, and remind motorists of the laws in place to protect those workers. Minster for Roads and Road Safety Ben Carroll said no one should feel unsafe in their
place of work. “Near misses are all too common for our emergency services and roadside workers, and this campaign highlights the dangers they face at work every day and how we can all help keep them safe by slowing down.” “Everyone should feel safe at work and this campaign is about reminding all motorists of the responsibilities we have, and the laws in place, to ensure everyone gets to go home to their loved ones each night.” The campaign comes just weeks after a fatal road accident in Carrum Downs on Tuesday 9 November involving road worker Timmy Rakei. Rakei and another road worker were placing traffic cones near the corner of Hall Road
and Lats Avenue when they were struck by a motorist who was allegedly travelling over the speed limit. Since 2017, it has been law in Victoria to slow down to 40 km/h or less, when passing law enforcement and emergency services that are active or with lights flashing. In addition, it is law to slow down to the posted speed limit when passing other roadside workers. Despite the laws, too many motorists continue to speed and drive dangerously when passing these workers, putting their lives at risk. Minister for Police Lisa Neville had a warning for those who don’t comply. “Police are doing an excellent job making sure our first responders and roadside work-
ers are kept safe on our roads – if you drive dangerously past them, you’ll be caught and fined.” Victoria Police actively enforce motorists slowing to 40km/h when passing a stationary emergency vehicle with emergency lights flashing. In 2020 alone, police issued 503 infringements for this offence. Motorists face fines of up to $777.30 for the offence. Drivers can be detected by a laser or other speed measuring device, in-car video, and emergency workers can also make reports to police if they witness an incident.
Seven level crossings now gone under Salam’s watch Works to remove the dangerous and congested level crossing at Hallam are powering ahead, with one of the Level Crossing Removal Project’s most experienced engineers leading the way at the Hallam Road site. Salam Al-Mulla has worked on seven level crossing removal projects since first starting as a site engineer when the project began in 2015 and has contributed immensely to the success of the project. Al-Mulla said working on level crossing removals has given him the ability to develop skills across a broad range of areas thanks to the diverse nature of the work. “In terms of personal and professional development, one thing that is great about level crossing removal projects, is that they provide exposure to a number of different disciplines,” he said. “I have been involved with the rail systems, including signalling, and I have also delivered a number of civil, structural utility and station building works. “These projects have given me numerous skills, which allow me to fulfill my role here at Hallam while also allowing others to learn from my experiences so they can take a step forward as I did, from site engineer to construction manager.” From projects in St Albans, Blackburn, Caulfield, Dandenong, Lower Plenty, Heatherdale and now as a construction manager at Hallam, Sal – as he is known to his colleagues – has seen it all. The role of the construction manager is key on any project site, but it is particularly important at level crossing removals where crews are often working in congested areas to complete the job as quickly and as safely as possible, with minimal disruption to train services or roads. For Al-Mulla, this means ensuring the team is working well together so that the project is delivered safely, successfully and on time, producing positive outcomes and benefits for the community. His engineering knowledge and level crossing removal experience is invaluable at
Salam Al-Mulla is up to his seventh level crossing removal site. 260298 the Hallam site, where crews are working to build a rail bridge over the road and a brandnew, elevated Hallam Station. Level Crossing Removal Project chief executive Kevin Devlin said that people like Al-Mulla have been crucial to delivering the project. “Getting rid of more than 50 level crossings in six years is no easy feat, but our team of dedicated workers, sub-contractors and
Picture: SUPPLIED
suppliers have made this huge achievement into a reality and I’d like to thank everyone for their hard work since the very beginning,” Devlin said. Sal’s contribution to the Pakenham and Cranbourne lines alone has been immense, not only through his work at Hallam Road, but also his work on the Caulfield to Dandenong project, which removed nine level crossings by building elevated rail.
He said being able to drive past these projects with his family and tell them he worked on them gave him immense pride. “I feel extremely proud to be part of this and the benefits it has provided the community,” Al-Mulla said. Works at the Hallam Road site will be completed in 2022, bringing the Pakenham line one step closer to being level crossing free by 2025.
KOO WEE RUP SECONDARY COLLEGE TOURS We invite Grade 5 & 6 Students and Parents to take our virtual tour which can be found on our website, or alternatively please contact the College to book an on-site tour. For further information, please contact Mr Todd Slater (Assistant Principal) or Ms Lauren Harvey (Year 7 Learning Community Leader.)
Our school aims to provide a quality education for all students:
Learn more information about:
• Friendly, caring environment • Supportive Learning Communities complemented by a strong House system. • SEAL (Select Entry Accelerated Learning) Program for gifted students. • Extensive Sports, Music, Creative and Performing Arts programs • State of the Art Year Level Learning Centres. • Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Program.
• Transition from Grade 6 to Year 7. • Our Learning Communities and facilities. • SEAL Program application process. • School Bus Transport. • Inclusive Education Program. • Extra-curricular programs provided by the school, including the instrumental Music Program. • Hear from our students about their school experiences.
TO BOOK AN ON-SITE TOUR: (TOURS HELD MON & THURS AT 10.15AM)
berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
www.facebook.com/kwrsc
koo.wee.rup.sc@edumail.vic.gov.au
12523104-CG47-21
www.kwrsc.vic.edu.au
5997 1444
Thursday, 2 December, 2021
|
STAR NEWS 7
NEWS
Libraries delivering joy By Marcus Uhe Casey Cardinia Libraries chief executive Beth Luppino said the libraries were proud to work with local charity groups and support those in the community who need a helping hand. “Our libraries are stronger and have more reach due to the incredible partners we work with,” Luppino said. “The organisations we are working with on Deliver Joy are, like Casey Cardinia Libraries, committed to making a real and positive difference in our community.” “The Deliver Joy campaign is such a lovely way to give back - and easy! What could be simpler than dropping off a donation of nonperishables next time you pick up a book? “If you are able, please support our collection this festive season and get food, toiletries and toys in the hands of people in need.” The Cranbourne Library will be working with Cranbourne Information and Support Services (CISS), who provide free crisis intervention, information and support services to people living in the area. The Bunjil Place Library in Narre Warren is teaming up with the Transit Outreach Service who provide food and support services from the Narre Warren Christian Church to the lessfortunate. “At the moment what we’re doing is providing food support to about 300-400 families a week,” Transit Coordinator Pastor Keith Vethaak said. “We get food from Ozharvest, Foodbank, Second Bite, they’re the three big ones. And then we get stuff from Coles and Woolworths, the Woolworths distribution centre” Transit have had to alter their operations due to vaccine requirements for Covid-19, as they are unable to offer seated meals in groups settings.
Customer experience officers Tim is thrilled to see donations piling up under the tree. 259582 “For seated service, they all have to be vaccinated,” Vethaak said. “Unfortunately at the moment under the rules, it’s difficult for us to determine who’s vaccinated and who’s not. Most of the people
who come, 50% wouldn’t have phones, or wouldn’t know what their vaccination status is, or probably haven’t been vaccinated. “So we thought, rather than having to turn people away, we’ll wait until we open up again
next year. Hopefully by then we can have everybody in together.” To find your closest library to make a donation head to cclc.vic.gov.au/deliverjoy/
Colourful fundraising fun unites school and CFA By Jamie Salter
Berwick Fire Brigade volunteers spraying the children at Berwick Chase Primary School’s colour run.
12525496-JW49-21
It was a colourful day at Berwick Chase Primary School’s colour fundraising run, thanks to the help of the Berwick Fire Brigade. Students ran a lap of the school to raise money while Berwick CFA volunteers squirted them with water from the fire truck. Firefighter Bianca Tumino said setting the colour dye into the children’s clothes was messy fun. “We feel excited and privileged to have been able to attend and get back into the community,” she said. “We’re volunteers who are very community-minded and promoting fire safety in schools is important to us.
“Being able to attend any event like that is really special.“ Ms Tumino said the weather was perfect and the children enjoyed playing in the sunshine. “When the hose turned on, you should have seen it, it wasn’t hundreds of kids running through the water and it was a beautiful day,” she said. “It was fun for us, and for the kids.” Ms Tumino said attending community events showed the children what being a CFA volunteer was all about. “We might inspire a girl or boy to become a volunteer one day.” The brigade is looking forward to attending more community events in the near future.
8 STAR NEWS
|
Thursday, 2 December, 2021
berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
Police push Safeguard Police are urging Victorians to remain vigilant about fire danger this summer, despite a wetter than average outlook for the upcoming season. Victoria Police has launched Operation Safeguard – an annual police operation which aims to deter or reduce the impact of intentional and recklessly lit fires across Victoria. Police will use intelligence to monitor the fire risk and deploy additional resources to areas deemed high risk, particularly during fire danger periods. Assistant Commissioner State Emergencies and Support Command, Michael Grainger said that all Victorians have an obligation to maintain fire safety. “Preventing bushfires is everyone’s responsibility,” Grainger said. “We’re asking the community to be mindful of their activities during the summer period and act responsibly – it could be your actions the result in a devastating bushfire, causing loss of life and property.” When responding to an emergency like a bushfire, Victoria Police supports the lead fire agencies by co-ordinating evacuations, traffic management, and investigating and prosecuting those responsible for irresponsible or intentionally lit fires. With a wetter than average summer predicted, police are warning the community not to be complacent when it comes to their actions causing fires – even if unintentional. “Summer in Victoria means the risk of fire is imminent. In hot, dry and windy conditions, fires can start quickly, are fast-moving and can have devastating impacts. “Victoria Police takes any bushfire that is
deliberately or recklessly lit seriously. Police will investigate and take action to catch those responsible when a fire is deemed suspicious, whether it was deliberate or a reckless action.” Between July 2020 and June 202, there were 21 offences detected for recklessly causing a bushfire and 12 offences for intentionally causing a bushfire. The most common causes of recklessly lit fires include burning off, campfires, car exhausts and machinery, use of tools such as angle grinders and welding equipment, bonfires and flares and farming machinery such as harvesters. While recklessly lit fires are considered by many to be accidental, the outcome is often the same as that caused by arson with potential for injury, loss of life or property. Anyone found guilty of recklessly or intentionally causing a bushfire can face significant fines and penalties of up to 15 years’ imprisonment. Police are reminding the community of their role in preventing bushfires and encourage people to speak up and report any reckless or suspicious behaviour. Victorians should also stay informed using the Vic Emergency app and regularly check the Fire Danger rating to monitor the fire risk in their local area. Operation Safeguard will run until March 2022. Anyone who witnesses suspicious behaviour as it is occurring should phone Triple Zero (000) and anyone with any information should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au.
Danger remains despite later start to fire season
berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
There is still potential for grassfires despite the late start to the fire season. 147551 state and average conditions in the east of the state. The rainfall outlook and existing underlying moisture means there is a low likelihood of large-scale fires in the foothill forests, with below-normal risk across the eastern, northeast and central ranges and the Otways. Burnt areas from the 2018-19 and 201920 fire seasons are included as part of the below-normal fire risk in eastern Victoria as these forested areas continue to recover from recent fire seasons. In Victoria, emergency information is available on the VicEmergency app, emergency.vic.gov.au, and other emergency broadcasters including commercial and community radio stations or by phoning the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226 and following VicEmergency on Facebook or Twitter.
12524802-NG49-21
Fast running grassfires will be a risk across Victoria this summer, with winter and spring rain leading to significant pasture growth in paddocks and roadsides. According to the update of the Australian Seasonal Bushfire Outlook, Victoria is expecting a normal fire season, with belownormal bushfire potential across the east. However, the potential for grassfires is still very real across Victoria. CFA deputy chief officer Alen Slijepcevic said Victorians should not get complacent due to the late onset of the fire season. “Even a normal fire season presents a potential high risk and we urge residents to prepare their properties and continue to keep on top of fast growing grass,“ Mr Slijepcevic said. “Anyone who lives in or travels through regional areas needs to monitor conditions and have a plan for dry, hot and windy days. “Grassfires travel faster than you can run, and they jump highways, so you need to activate your fire plan on those high-risk days before a fire starts.” The delayed harvest due to recent rain will heighten the fire risk associated with cropping, compared to previous years. Normal fire potential is expected in grasslands and dry forests and short-duration fires are still likely to occur under the right conditions – hot dry and windy days. During winter and spring, most of Victoria received average to above average rainfall, except the northwest and far west of the state. This has resulted in a later start to the fire season compared to recent years. The current climate outlook for summer indicates above average rainfall in some parts of Victoria with generally warmer than average conditions in the west of the
Thursday, 2 December, 2021
|
STAR NEWS 9
NEWS
Aunty Pat tells her story By Cam Lucadou-Wells Family and connection lay at the heart of Aunty Pat Ockwell’s life story. And so it was at the official launch of her richly told biography ‘Aunty Pat Ockwell Tells Her Story’ in front of admiring family, friends and mayors at Abbotsford Convent on 21 November. The 84-year-old Wurundjeri elder – described as “our eldest elder” – has traced her vast life, deep kinship and shared the lessons for the younger generations. It’s the product of two-and-a-half years of lockdown-interrupted toil between Aunty Pat and collaborator Pauline Mackinnon. At the launch, Aunty Pat – flanked by siblings Alice, Patrick and Martha - revealed the emotional ride in compiling the book with her “old mate”. “I used to cry sometimes, I used to have a go at her and she’d have a cry. “I’d say what are we howling for? We shouldn’t be doing this. “We sat down with a coffee. We roughed it for a while – but we got there, Pauline.” Ms Mackinnon said Aunty Pat’s persistence on the project was driven by a “love and fire” for her elders and the young. “It was no ego thing,” she said. “It was something she knew she had to do for everyone’s benefit – for all her family and the community. “And to cover all that love and courage of her elders.” Ms Mackinnon said it was an honour to “walk with” Aunty Pat through the project. “It’s a beautiful, personal and warm record of a critical time for Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islander people. “What it takes to survive and to safeguard what’s important so the next generation can
Aunty Pat Ockwell and Greater Dandenong mayor Angela Long at the book launch. 258932
Aunty Pat Ockwell with her siblings Alice, Patrick and Martha. 258932 do the same. “What I love about Aunt is not only the love and fire that burns in her belly for her elders. It’s the love and fire that burns for the young ones. “She sees the connection of that so well.” The story starts with Aunty Pat’s mum Martha Terrick and dad Patrick Nicholson, who served with the Royal Australian Air Force. Then the childhood memories growing up in Healesville, as one of 16 siblings. Her family travelled the countryside by caravan for seasonal farm and orchard work. The memoir tells of her raising her family
Pictures: ROB CAREW
with husband and Woori Yallock farmer Ted Ockwell. And inspired by elders before her, how she devoted herself to trying to help her people. Her Aunty Winnie – a very important Wurundjeri leader – said that when she was gone, Aunty Pat would have to “step up”. And she did. She’s served on the board of Dandenong and District Aborigines Co-operative, as well as the Wurundjeri Tribe Council, Aboriginal Community Elders Services and Aboriginal Housing Victoria.
She is renowned for getting young lives back on track and out of jail, such as by sitting on the Koori Court as an Elder for 14 years. At the launch, Uncle Andrew Gardiner, of Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation, said the book had many “snippets” that few had heard. One passage brought him vivid recollections of his mother. “You can see and recognise that personal touch.” Recent City of Greater Dandenong mayor Angela Long – a friend of Aunty Pat for four decades – was among the attendees. City of Melbourne Lord Mayor Sally Capp also paid tribute in a pre-recorded message. In her Welcome to Country, Aunty Di Kerr said she was glad that ‘Teenie’ told her life stories, like the ones she used to share in jewellery making. “I hope you look at the book and appreciate what as a strong matriarch in the Aboriginal community she has shared with us,” she told the audience. To her friend, she said: “I don’t know what our world would be like without you.”
Downsizing floated Richard and Donna’s boat. Whether you’re a boater or a landlubber, you’ll become the captain of a bigger life at Lifestyle Kaduna Park. With brand new homes bathed in natural light, stone kitchen benchtops with stainless steel appliances and stylish designer bathrooms, you can come home to less to-dos and more ta-das.
Scan for more information
Your chance to downsize to a bigger life is limited, with less than 10 homes left – so be quick! Stunning new homes from $520,000*.
Pop in for a tour!
Downsize to a bigger life at
We’re open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm and Saturday, 10am to 4pm 45 Heytesbury Drive, Officer South *Price correct as at December 2021 12504642-BL49-21
10 STAR NEWS
|
Thursday, 2 December, 2021
berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
Tree debris By Jamie Salter Recent storm events that hit Victoria resulted in a significant number of fallen trees and branches across the City of Casey Anyone who drives through the local government area can see remaining storm damage strewn about the neighbourhoods. Damage along Filmer Crescent and Buster Court looks as if “a bomb has gone off“ and with branches left lying on nature strips, residents are running out of patience. Clyde local and former Narre Warren CFA member Paul Smith has lived in the area for 20 years and said the streets have never been in a worse condition. “The trees are everywhere and no one has done anything about it,“ Mr Smith said. “Myself and eight to 10 neighbours have written in to council and received a standard reply that it has been too wet for maintenance teams to enter. “There’s no excuse from removing all the trees on paths - that’s not wet-weather related.“ Mr Smith said the debris has been left scattered across the area for at least a month. “This time of year is when the municipality should be looking its best and it’s an absolute mess,“ he said. Cranbourne North resident Caesar Albanesi said there was too much red tape in City of Casey. “The council has not done anything to clean up the damage,” he said. “They’re giving excuses and it’s just not right, we pay so much in rates and what do we pay these rates for?” City of Casey manager city presentation David Richardson said council and contractors were working through a large number of requests. “However, due to the high volume, it means we are unable to meet our usual service standards,“ he said. “Since 1 August, we have received more than 5000 requests related to trees and branches including requests for assistance and general maintenance. “Our Urban Forest team is working hard to catch up as quickly as possible. “We appreciate your ongoing patience as
Tree branches left on the nature strip in Narre Warren. our team works on the most urgent and high priority requests first.“ Priority requests include clearing trees and branches that have fallen on roads, paths and driveways. Mr Richardson said there may be a delay in collecting trees and branches that have been cleared and moved safely onto nature strips. “Currently, we estimate that it may take six to eight weeks for our usual routine maintenance programs to resume and for a return to our usual service standards,“ he said. “Council crews are aware of the fallen branches in Filmer Crescent and Buster Court and work is this area is scheduled in the next week. “If you believe the situation you originally reported has become more urgent (possibility of causing harm to persons or damage to property), please contact us again and quote your previously issued reference number and our team will review, and action as needed. “We apologise for the delay and appreciate your patience.“
A broken tree branch on Filmer Crescent, Narre Warren.
Echo Taskforce detectives make more arrests Detectives from the Echo Taskforce have arrested two more people as part of an ongoing investigation in to alleged extortions linked to the Comanchero Outlaw Motor Cycle Gang (OMCG). A 26-year-old Cranbourne East man was arrested and has been charged with blackmail. He was bailed to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Thursday 17 February 2022.
A 39-year-old Preston man was interviewed and released pending further enquiries. Warrants were also executed at business premises in Hallam and the Melbourne CBD. Earlier in November, police arrested and charged three people as part of the investigation. A 49-year-old Narre Warren man, who is a patched member of the Comanchero OMCG, was charged with extortion, blackmail, threat
to kill and theft of motor vehicle. A 19-year-old Hallam man was charged with extortion, possess steroids, fail to provide information pursuant to a 465AA order and weapons offences. A 25-year-old Cranbourne East man was charged with extortion, possess steroids, possess proceeds of crime, fail to provide information pursuant to a 465AA order and weapons offences. Warrants were also executed at three resi-
dential properties in Narre Warren, Hallam and Cranbourne East, as well as a gym in Hallam. These arrests form part of an investigation by the Echo Taskforce into an alleged extortion and subsequent threats made to two victims over the past 12 months. Anyone with information about OMCG activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report to crimestoppersvic.com.au
T 8P_
79 ACRES - BETWEEN DROUIN & WARRAGUL UGZ’S
AU CT IO N
A PRIME location between Drouin, Warragul & Freeway Access! 3.5yr old home beautifully kept inc solar, double glazing, 4BR, 2.5 bathrooms, 2 spacious living areas & large DBL garage URL. Superb northerly aspect! Reliable water, troughs, 2 dams, good stock yards, crush & laneways. The best soils with top fertiliser history, ideal typography! Exciting & opportune time to invest your savings where they will grow. Agent: MIRANDA PIKE 0404 193 205
415 LARDNER ROAD WARRAGUL WEST AUCTION: SATURDAY 11TH DECEMBER 2021 11.30 AM TERMS: 10% Deposit Settlement 60/90/120 days
OPSM Pakenham
OPSM Berwick
Ph: 5940 5858
Ph: 9707 5556
5622 3800 Cnr Smith & Queen St, Warragul 12503425-LB29-21
berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
Thursday, 2 December, 2021
|
STAR NEWS 11
NEWS
Michael Casey and Deb Pugsley (representing WHISE) both received awards at the ceremony for their work in the sector. 259731
It was great to see many community leaders present on the day, all raising awareness for family violence prevention.
Phil Cleary addresses the crowd at the Cardinia Cultural Centre.
Cardinia unites for cause By Gabriella Payne Family violence is an often invisible issue that’s hidden behind closed doors - but there are many people in the community working to put a stop to it once and for all. On Thursday 25 November, the Cardinia Shire Council (in collaboration with Aligned Leisure and Outlook Victoria) held their long awaited White Ribbon Day fundraiser and award ceremony at the Cardinia Cultural Centre, and it was a fantastic morning full of inspiring people and conversations. As well as featuring a number of captivating guest speakers, this year’s ceremony shone a light on two outstanding and highly deserving community leaders, who were recognised for their efforts in preventing family violence in the community. WHISE (Women’s Health in the South East) was awarded the 2021 Tony Fitzgerald Award for their tireless work in providing health information, health promotion and education to the female community, while also assisting women (particularly those who are significantly disadvantaged) to access services they need. The second award of the morning, the 2021 Gary McQuillan Award, was given to Michael Casey for his efforts in driving the Cardinia Shire Council’s White Ribbon re-accreditation and Together We Can initiative. Both Mr Casey and Deb Pugsley (WHISE’s operations manager) said they were incredibly grateful to have been recognised in this way and would continue to raise awareness and advocate for victims impacted by family violence into the future. “It’s been a real pleasure and an honour,”Ms Pugsley said. “It’s good to get back on the scene with everyone, we have worked amazingly and I take my hat off to the staff at WHISE for all that they’ve done.” Mr Casey shared his gratitude as well, and said that it had been an inspiring morning full of hope for the future. “There was lots of good conversation and information shared [at the event] to keep the ball rolling,” Mr Casey said. “There’s always work happening, but its great to hear new ideas and have these discussions for how we can further that.” A number of notable speakers addressed the audience that morning, including equality advocate, former federal MP and AFL legend Phil Cleary, Outlook chief executive officer Sam Sondhi, Inspector Darron Hedge from Victoria Police and Aligned Leisure’s Shane Dunne to name a few. Mr Cleary’s powerful speech addressed how local sporting clubs could help educate both 12 STAR NEWS
|
Thursday, 2 December, 2021
Everyone has a role to play in preventing family violence, and the important message to remember is that ‘together we can!’ 259731 Pictures: GABRIELLA PAYNE male and female players on family violence prevention, so that together, we can create safer spaces that promote equality within the community moving forward. “I’m confident that we’re going to make progress and seismic change in the coming years,” Mr Cleary said to the crowd. “I often say, ’you don’t solve a problem until you know you’ve got one’.” “34 years ago when my sister was murdered, the society didn’t think it had a problem, so from there to here, [there’s been a] massive
change,” he said. “We’re now capable, but this has to be a microcosm of the whole community, so in all our settings, we have to work on all these principles.” Cardinia Shire Council Mayor Jeff Springfield said that it had been fantastic to see community members come together to raise awareness for this important issue. “It was great to see the community come together and hear the stories of the people and the advocates in this space,” Cr Springfield said.
“It’s such an important topic and issue to be raising awareness for, because we all play a role in the community to stop gender based violence.” “This issue brews in the background in our neighbours houses, in the houses of our teammates and in our sporting clubs, and men really need to play a role in addressing this,” he said. If you or anyone you know is experiencing any form of family violence, contact Safe Steps 24/7 on 1800 015 188 or safesteps@safesteps. org.au berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
CHRISTMAS IN BERWICK
Visit Ella Bache in their new location in Berwick Village, 12 Blackburne Square, Berwick, to indulge your senses with their extensive range of speciality skincare treatments and products. 260125
SHIMMERING SKIN TREATMENTS
Specializing in Jewellery Repairs, Qualified Watch makers and Jeweller, Engagement Rings and Watch Repairs. Swiss Watch Repairs Specialist.
12526051-CG49-21
Ella Bache in Berwick
Your Special Christmas gift is right here at Berwick Village Jewellers
Berwick Village Jewellers 2 Blackburne Square, Berwick VIC 3806 03 9707 2647 | www.berwickjeweller.com.au
Muti award winning Ella Bache Fountain Gate now relocated to Berwick
JOY Signature Facial, Décolletage Treatment, Hand Exfoliation 1h | $99
TRANQUILITY Signature Facial, Hand Treatment, 30min Relaxation Massage 1h 30min | $149
BLISSFUL Signature Facial, Hand Treatment, 1h Relaxation Massage 2h | $199
Vouchers available for this Christmas 12 Blackburne Square, Berwick VIC 3806 Follow us on 12524390-SG49-21
berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
Thursday, 2 December, 2021
|
STAR NEWS 13
NEWS
Watchful eyes clean up By Gabriella Payne Illegal rubbish dumping has long been an issue that has plagued the south-eastern suburbs - but an unusual yet ingenious new solution could help curb the problem for good. With Christmas and the holiday season just around the corner, Australia’s largest clothing and household item recycling company, SCR Group, has been bracing itself for a busy few months ahead. Running over 1600 collection hubs around the country, SCR Group spends almost $1 million every year cleaning up illegal dumping and they knew there needed to be a more permanent solution to the problem. SCR Group key executive Alexis Todorovski said that the spike in illegal dumping over the festive season happened “for a number of reasons” but after hearing about some interesting new research from Oxford University, the company decided to try a new prevention strategy. The research, which showed that images of large watching eyes could reduce the occurrence of crime and anti-social behaviour, gave the company the idea for their new, specially designed signage - a life-size, big-eyed, cardboard security guard named Alfonzo. “Alfonzo is based off international research from Oxford University called ’the watching eye effect’, which was tested to see if images of large watching eyes would reduce the occurrence of crime and anti-social behaviour,” Ms Todorovski said. “The findings of that study showed their effectiveness being greater than CCTV cameras. “SCR Group expanded on this research to include an educational element with the key message “illegal dumping is a crime” [in the new signage] because not many people know that leaving items next to clothing hubs, even with good intent, is a punishable offence, often through hefty fines,” she said. The company trialled Alfonzo for a fourweek period at their worst offending illegal dumping hotspot in Melbourne’s northern suburbs and witnessed some incredible results. “Our number one hotspot saw dumping decrease by 75 per cent and dropped from the number one spot to number 10 in just a fourweek period,” Ms Todorovski explained. “The results from our trial are in line with Oxford’s research and we believe this concept should be part of public policy, especially when it comes to illegal dumping that costs
What do you think of the new ‘Alfonzo’ signage idea being trialled by SCR Group - could it curb illegal dumping in your area? ratepayers tens of millions of dollars each year to clean up (an average of approximately $2-3 million per council).” Ms Todorovski said that SCR Group planned to roll out the scheme to their south-east locations in the near future and hoped to record similar results, but signage wasn’t the only way to stop the problem once and for all.
“We’re currently rolling out Alfonzo signage in the City of Hume, City of Casey and more in the City of Whittlesea,” Ms Todorovski said. “Although the signs are very successful, they are only one part to a multi-pronged strategy to significantly reduce or eliminate the problem altogether. “In conjunction with the signage and in
Pictures: SUPPLIED
collaboration with councils, SCR Group believes that education programs and awareness campaigns along with the sufficient provision of services such as free home pickups and recycling drop off days should be a permanent part to local government’s service and would address the cause behind illegal dumping.”
Pakenham seedling sale set to be a delight on Sunday By Gabriella Payne Local gardening enthusiasts are in for a treat this weekend as the Pakenham Community Garden will be transformed into your onestop-shop for seedlings and plants. The community garden, located next to Pakenham’s Living & Learning Centre on Henry Street, will be selling a wide range of seedlings and plants on Sunday 5 December - just in time for those Christmas holiday planting projects! With prices ranging from just 10 cents up to $6, there’ll be plenty of affordable seedlings to go around and members of the community garden will be there on the day, sharing their wealth of wisdom with aspiring local gardeners. Pakenham Community Garden coordinator Max Godber encouraged everyone to come by on Sunday afternoon to say hello and explore the selection of plants on offer. “The Pakenham Community Garden will be hosting another seedling and plant sale this Sunday from 2 - 4pm at 6b Henry Street, Pakenham,“ Mr Godber said. “Our range includes potted herbs, vegetable seedlings, indoor and ornamental plants - [but there are] limited quantities available! “Come down to support your local community garden and learn more about how to get a bumper harvest this summer,“ he said. 14 STAR NEWS
|
Thursday, 2 December, 2021
Max Godber encouraged everyone to come down to the Community Garden plant and seedling sale - pictured here at a previous sale with customer Allison. 223120
Sylvia Lane, a volunteer of the community garden, with some seedlings at one of the group’s previous sales. 223120 berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
BUSINESS IN FOCUS
The Arthurs Seat Eagle is a one of a kind experience right on Melbourne’s doorstep.
Picture: SUPPLIED
Reaching for the skies Catching a gondola in the middle of the Mornington Peninsula may seem like a difficult task but Arthurs Seat Eagle gives the experience a whole new meaning. Rather than being on the water, the gondola chair lift is suspended high above the ocean, giving spectacular views out across the bay. “The Arthurs Seat Eagle offers a one of a kind experience - soaring high above Arthurs Seat State Park in our state-of-the-art gondolas, 314 metres above sea level. The stunning views from the gondolas extend across Port Phillip Bay to Melbourne CBD and beyond,” Arthurs Seat Eagle CEO, Matt Mulkearns said. Since 2016 the Eagle has been operating,
constantly changing things up to give customers a new experience each time they visit. The team have introduced in-gondola dining and the cafe menu is seasonally updated but it is the newly renovated retail store that has been an integral part of The Base, to help display the wonderful local produce the peninsula has to offer. “Our newly revamped retail store stocks products from the Mornington Peninsula - our emphasis has been on showcasing and supporting local producers, artisans, and businesses that give back to the community,” Mr Mulkearns said. But it’s not just the things the eye can see
that makes this the one of a kind tourist destination that it is. “We have a relentless drive to deliver safety excellence and use only state-of-the-art equipment and products - this has translated well in the era of Covid, as the implementation of an advanced TGA certified, instant contact surface disinfectant has given us a superior level of Covid protection and a leading technological edge in our industry.” The fully inclusive and accessible gondolas, designed in Switzerland, cater for all ages and abilities, allowing everyone to witness the bluest of blue waters in Melbourne’s beach side suburbs.
With discounts now on offer, there’s no better time to book this premium Victorian tourism attraction, the only one like it in the state. “We have just introduced a new Eagle Family Ticket to make the Eagle more affordable and cost efficient for families. An online ticket discount has also been introduced to provide better value and an incentive to those who book online.” Open every day except Christmas Day from 10am to 5pm at 795 Arthurs Seat Road, Arthurs Seat. Visit www.aseagle.com.au to book tickets or contact the Arthurs Seat Eagle team at info@aseagle.com.au or on (03) 5987 0600.
12524188-SN49-21
berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
Thursday, 2 December, 2021
|
STAR NEWS 15
NEWS
Be the life blood Australia is in the midst of a ‘bailer boom’ according to new research released by Australian Red Cross Lifeblood – which is issuing a call to arms to boost blood donor ranks. Lifeblood-commissioned research reveals 79 per cent of people have experienced a social hangover in the past month, with more than half admitting they had cancelled plans at the last minute. Earlier this month, Lifeblood announced a record high spike in blood donation no shows, with half of the nation’s blood donation appointments not being attended. As a result, a new campaign is urging people to take the Bloody Oath and make a promise to donate blood. Lifeblood’s executive director of donor services Cath Stone said 140,000 new blood donors were needed in 2022 to meet the needs of patients across Australia - an increase of 45 per cent. “We are extremely grateful that donors have continued to roll up their sleeves during the pandemic and ensure patients receive the blood and blood products they need, but our existing donors can’t do it alone,” Ms Stone said. “We want to harness the mateship and generosity that carried us through the pandemic
and build a community of blood donors who are there to give hope, give joy, give second chances, and ultimately, give life. “With almost half of people surveyed predicting their social calendars will get even busier as they head into the festive season, now is the time to make blood donation a priority.” In the wake of recent cancellations, Lifeblood surveyed people across the country to find out how they were feeling about social and other engagements. Key reasons for the growing social fatigue were attributed to adjusting to normal social activities following extended isolated periods (37 per cent), the end of lockdowns being adjoined with the busy festive season (26 per cent), and over-committing to plans in a bid to make up for time lost while in lockdown (24 per cent). More than a quarter of respondents admitted they would cancel a blood donation if they had a ’social hangover’, despite the need for 33,000 donations every week. Ms Stone said blood demand was currently at a 10-year high. “There are now more than three million extra people living in Australia than 10 years ago, but the number of people who donate hasn’t changed,” she said.
“We rely on the same number of donors today to maintain a blood supply for an additional three million people. “We need more donors to sign up, and for our existing donors to roll up their sleeves more often.” The act of donating blood is taking the Bloody Oath, but donors can recite the oath at any time and they’re welcome to help spread the word by sharing a social post with their bandaged arm up after their donation. The Bloody Oath: I hereby swear to be the lifeblood of Australia. Of community and country. To give what I can, as often as I can. Even when I don’t feel like it. Or if I’m scared. And if I give excuses, don’t take them. Hold me to my word. Because Australia needs me. To give hope. Give joy. Give second chances. To give life. Do I promise to be a blood donor? Bloody oath, I do. To book a donation phone 13 14 95, visit lifeblood.com.au, or download the free DonateBlood app.
Members of the Cardinia Catchment Landcare Group at a community planting day.
Picture: SUPPLIED (CCLG)
Landcare grants support admin costs The Cardinia Catchment Landcare Inc. is looking forward to getting back into the community after Covid-19 lockdowns after recently receiving a $500 annual support grant to go towards its insurance costs when working on public and private land. Support grants can be used for assistance with costs such as insurance, incorporation and operational needs, or meetings and events or newsletters, websites, and other communication. The non profit group has about 30 members who volunteer their time to improve the natural environment in the Cardinia Shire. Cardinia Catchment Landcare Inc. president Glenn Brooks-MacMillan said he was looking forward to planning more planting
days next year. “Covid-19 stopped our operations for a few months, so now it’s about motivating our members when we ramp up again in late January and February,” he said. “We mostly work with land owners to plant trees and we cover the cost of plants and guards.” Cardinia Catchment Landcare Inc. also holds a number of community planting days throughout the year. “Prior to the coronavirus, we would do have a dozen plantings a year at the end of winter, and going into spring we predominately work on weeds,” Mr Brooks-MacMillan said.
The Victorian Government provides funding to support Landcare and environmental volunteering groups and networks for on-ground works, education, and capacity building projects to protect, enhance, and restore land. Through the Victorian Landcare Grants, a total of $4.09 million has been provided for 206 project grants and 282 support grants across Victoria in 2021. In the Port Phillip and Western Port region, $536,081 was provided for 21 project grants and 88 support grants. For all Victorian recipients, visit environment.vic.gov.au/grants/victorian-landcaregrants
Road upgrade works ramping up The Narre Warren North Road Upgrade project team has been busy over the last month getting ready for the start of major construction in January. In December, asphalt works for the U-turn at Belgrave-Hallam Road will be completed, with safety barriers removed and closed lanes reopened for the holiday break. December works will also include continuing non-destructive digging to locate underground services and begin the process of relocating services, applying temporary line marking to guide drivers safely through the work zones, completing temporary asphalting 16 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 2 December, 2021
works at Fox Road and near Memorial Drive to enable safety barriers to be installed and building the site compound. Most works will take place between 7am and 6pm from Monday to Friday and 7am to 1pm on Saturdays. Some works may need to be undertaken at night to minimise impacts on traffic or utility services. Notice of night work will be given to the public in advance. Throughout December, road users may experience traffic changes and minor disrup-
tions on Narre Warren North Road. Changes will include reducing speed limits from 80km to 60km between Fox Road and Belgrave-Hallam Road for the duration of works and implementing temporary lane closures and speed limit reduction to 40km during working hours. The Narre Warren North Road Upgrade project team thanked the community for their understanding. To keep up to date with the progress of the Narre Warren North Road Upgrade, visit roadprojects.vic.gov.au
The AWF Grants Program improves companion animal welfare and recognises the significant role pets play in the lives of Victorians. 258967 Picture: UNSPLASHED
Better care for your best friends The Victorian State Government is supporting more Victorian pet owners to have better access to veterinary and rehoming services across the state. The Animal Welfare Fund (AWF) Grants Program improves companion animal welfare and recognises the significant role pets play in the lives of Victorians. Applications are open for the latest round of the AWF Grants Program funding which will support animal shelters, like the Lost Dogs Home in Cranbourne West, foster carers, not-for profit and community vet clinics to expand their services and help more companion animals. “These grants recognise the significant role that not-for-profit and community animal welfare organisations play in improving the lives of our muchloved pets,” Minister for Agriculture Mary-Anne Thomas said. “Pets are an important part of the lives of many Victorians – that’s why we are providing more grants to support our beloved companion animals and ensure they get the care they deserve.” More than $1.5 million is available to eligible organisations under the latest round of the grants program. This includes up to $100,000 for shelters and not-for-profit organisations to purchase equipment or to upgrade and expand their services, up to $200,000 to establish new, low-cost vet clinics and expansions at not-for-profit and community vet clinics. Eligible organisations can submit applications to purchase equipment and to upgrade or expand their facility. Grant recipient and Australian Animal Protection Society (AAPS) General Manager Megan Seccull said that the funding has made a tremendous difference to her organisation. “The grant money we received has meant we have been able to purchase new veterinary equipment, enabling us improve the level of care we can offer to those animals in need. “We feel so fortunate to also be able to build some high quality animal enclosures for our rabbits and guinea pigs making their transient stay with us pleasant and less stressful.” 169 grants totalling almost $4.2 million have been awarded to not-for-profit and community organisations that improve the welfare of animals since the program was launched. Applications for the latest round of the grants program are open until Friday, 24 December. For more information and to apply visit animalwelfare.vic.gov.au. berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
Intersection closure for upgrades
Sam McCurdy, Laury Gordyn and David Anderson start the Rotary Berwick and District Benevolent Society’s 2021 Christmas Collection at Berwick Square.
Berwick Rotary Club back in action The Berwick Rotary Club is excited to be out the community once again, and many plans are being laid for 2022. Berwick Rotary Club public image director Jane Moore said weekly meetings have returned at The Beaconsfield Club, with a real “buzz in the room“. “Everyone has suffered from Covid-19 and that feeling of uncertainty, but we’re very excited to get out and do the work that we do,“ she said. Benevolent Society Christmas appeal donation crates have been placed in the community to make Christmas brighter for the less fortunate. Donations of non-perishable food items, toys and books are being collected from eight local schools and two supermarket sites. The donations will then be delivered to Casey North Community Information Support Service (CNCISS), where they will be sorted into Christmas hampers for distribution to those in need within the local community.
On November 30, Rotary members collected two car loads of assorted wooden toys from the Berwick Woodcutters and delivered them to CNCISS to be distributed to children in time for Christmas. Mrs Moore said there were many events to look forward to after a brief Christmas hiatus. “For people that feel that need to give back to community, there’s heaps of opportunities,“ she said. “It’s fun and so rewarding and we don’t push membership, it’s more about getting engaged in what we’re doing.“ Planning is underway for next year’s activities including the delivery of student awards across local schools, the annual Berwick Cemetery cleanup, working bees at Grasmere Creek Wetland, a memorial in honour of the late Mick Morland OAM, the installation of a Peace Pole at Haileybury, manning a barbecue for the Level Crossing Authority, running of presentation balls on behalf of Berwick
College and participation in Clean Up Australia Day. The Rotary Foundation will be supported through the Centurion Club, with many Berwick members registered to attend the annual district conference in Traralgon in February. On an international level, members will travel to the Rotary headquarters in Chicago next year to train incoming officers and vote on behalf of the district on Rotary legislation, as well as attending the international convention in Houston. Mrs Moore said Rotary was available to everyone - from the local community, to the world. “We are well connected, enjoying each others company not only at meetings, but when we work together, over a virtual coffee on Saturday mornings and at our upcoming Christmas social,“ she said. “Covid-19 hasn’t held us back.“ For more information, visit rotaryberwick. org
The roundabout at the intersection of Hallam North and Heatherton roads will be closed in all directions as part of works to build extra lanes and upgrade the area. To improve safety and traffic flow, two through lanes and two right turn lanes will be added in each direction. During the closure from 7am on Monday 3 January to 6pm on Sunday 30 January, 2022, the existing roundabout will be replaced with a smaller, temporary one to make progress on new traffic lights. Barriers will be placed around the intersection to keep road users and workers safe during construction. The route 842 bus stops at Heatherton and Reservoir roads will be closed throughout January, with the closest stop at the intersections of Tom Jones and Randle courts on Heatherton Road. The route 863 bus stops at the corner of Hallam North Road and Thomas Mitchell Drive will also remain closed for the duration of the project. The closest bus stops are at BelgraveHallam Road and the corner of John Fawkner Drive and Heatherton Road. Locals will still be able to shops at Heatherton Village and fuel up at Shell Coles Express and United Petroleum. A community information session will be held on Thursday 9 December from 4pm to 7pm at Heatherton Village for more information about the upcoming closure. Members of the Road Projects Team will be available to answer questions. To view the detour map, visit roadprojects.vic.gov.au
The roundabout at the intersection of Hallam North and Heatherton roads will be closed for four weeks.
Connecting two communities through lockdowns By Jamie Salter The staff at Cranbourne West Primary School are helping to support the Afghan community to feel welcome in the community. Many Hazara families were experiencing significant stress from isolation during the most recent coronavirus lockdown. In August, Afghanistan’s capital city Kabul was taken over by Taliban forces. Local families were traumatised by the shocking event and deeply concerned for their family and friends overseas. Cranbourne West Primary School multicultural education support worker Lida Hazara recognised their troubles and took action to provide these families with extra support during the difficult period. She spoke with the school’s principal Andrew Bergmeier about the welfare of the children and families from Afghanistan, inviting staff to attend a Zoom meeting with herself and about 30 parents. From this meeting, Mr Bergmeier contacted the Department of Education and requested berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
Cranbourne West Primary School multicultural education support worker Lida Hazara and principal Andrew Bergmeier are helping to support the Afghan community. affected students be allowed to attend school for on-site supervision, to provide them support during a critical time.
The school received approval to have students attend campus throughout the last two weeks of Term 3. Ms Hazara said knowing staff cared enough to advocate for their needs made a big difference. “It made a huge change, even I was in a bad condition at the time,” she said. “A lot of ladies shared their stories and tears and we never thought something was going to happen. “But we couldn’t look after ourselves, how could we look after our children? “When they came back to school, the children didn’t just learn, they went to see each other and play.” Mr Bergmeier said the Zoom call enlightened staff to the persecutions of Hazara people. ”Our meeting just about reduced us to tears, many families were experiencing a sense of helplessness,” he said. “The Education Department responded in a really positive way to the needs of these peo-
ple - which we can’t fully understand. “People don’t realise the restorative effects a school can have on our children.” Ms Hazara has spent the past four years at the school working to create a sense of community. Now, she is moving on to a new role at the Australian Asylum Seeker Resource Centre. “It’s my goal to work for the larger community,” she said. “Since I came here, I’ve changed a lot and found myself. “I’ve tried to connect two cultures together, if we help them, it means we help our country.” Parent and community liaison Debbie Dodd said Ms Hazara created a community feel that hadn’t been there before her arrival. “She will be missed at Cranbourne West Primary School but in the same way that Mr Bergmeier has supported her development, she has also supported ours and we know that we will be able to continue her good work into the future,” Ms Dodd said. Thursday, 2 December, 2021
|
STAR NEWS 17
NEWS
New pathway for horses Racing Victoria’s Off The Track (OTT) Program has partnered with Narre Warren North based Equine Pathways Australia (EPA) to offer more opportunities for off-the-track horses to support athletes with a disability. EPA assists people with a physical disability to engage in equine sports and activities by providing community participation programs and sporting programs for equines and athletes. EPA was initially founded in 2017 to provide a structured program for people with a disability or recovering from illness or injury to return to involvement in equine sport. It is now an accredited Paralympics Australia Centre of Excellence for Paralympic preparation. Equine Pathways Australia chairman Brett Mace said he was pleased to partner with Racing Victoria in this program to rehome and find a new role for some retired racehorses. “Our program provides a number of opportunities for selected horses to find a new role in equine sport and for that special horse the dream of Paralympic selection with one of our athletes,” Mr Mace said. “The Equine Pathways Australia Horse Owner Program also provides a unique opportunity for the community and lovers of horses to partner with us to own one of these off-thetrack horses and to play a significant part in the next phase of its life.” “Being an owner of one of these horses can be wonderfully fulfilling as each horse partners with athletes in our program to change their lives and provide opportunities they might not have normally had.” Racing Victoria general manager of equine welfare Jen Hughes said she was looking forward to supporting Equine Pathways Australia. “We are pleased to have entered into a partnership with Equine Pathways Australia and are looking forward to supporting the valu-
Racing Victoria’s Off The Track (OTT) Program has partnered with Equine Pathways Australia in Narre Warren North. able work they do, not only in the high-performance area, helping athletes compete at World Equestrian or Paralympic Games level, but also in the vocational area, helping people to find employment within the industry,” Ms Hughes said. “The great thing about EPA is that you don’t need to be an elite athlete to take part, they also offer clients the opportunity to re-engage
Berwick Star News
Digital Edition
FREE BERWICK
Thursday, 28 January, 2021
BERWICK
/berwickstarnews
@StarNews_SE
Thursday, 28 January, 2021
40¢ Inc. GST berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
Casey names its top citizens
Well known jewellers call it a day
Dees ready to rumble
PAGES 2-3
PAGES 4-5
PAGE 9
SPORT
SIGN UP NOW!
/berwickstarnews
@StarNews_SE
40¢ Inc. GST
OAMs for a couple of proud Aussies
Casey names its top citizens
Well known jewellers call it a day
Dees ready to rumble
PAGES 2-3
PAGES 4-5
PAGE 9
SPORT
SIGN UP NOW!
12476975-LB02-21
OAMs for a couple of proud Aussies
Rex name shame By Mitchell Clarke Almost one year since alleged corruption was exposed within the City of Casey, a former councillor is still fighting to clear his name. Former Springfield Ward councillor Rex Flannery, who resigned as deputy mayor just days before the State Government sensationally sacked the entire council in February 2020, says the events of the past 12 months are still “eating” him up. He has now officially requested that his name is removed from both a councillor honour board in the customer service centre and a wall plaque in Bunjil Place. “I have never had any involvement into this alleged corruption scandal and therefore I do not wish to have my name associated with past or former councillors who may have brought our City of Casey into disrepute,” he told Star News. “People look at your name and they see that you’re from Casey Council and immediately they put you in that same mould, which couldn’t be further than the truth. “It’s just horrible to have been a councillor in that term. It gives you a sickening feeling in your gut and now I have to live with that.“ Mr Flannery argues his name should never have been placed on the plaque celebrating the $126 million Bunjil development because at the time he didn’t support the project. “I guess I’ve eaten a little bit of humble pie with Bunjil Place. I’ve been able to see the value that place brings to the community but at the time I was against the development and I wasn’t once consulted (about having my name included),” he said. He also claims former ex-ward partner, Sam Aziz, stated to him that he “wished he never had my name added to the plaque”. “That was the only time I agreed with him,” Mr Flannery said. While Mr Flannery hasn’t accused any former councillor of committing wrongdoing, he said anyone found guilty from the IBAC hearing should immediately have their honours stripped. “They need to have their plaques removed
Rex name shame
EXPERTS IN FAMILY LAW
Scan this QR code to subscribe Or visit berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au/subscribe/ |
Thursday, 2 December, 2021
Rex Flannery, pictured in late 2015, wants his name stripped from council. 148005 from anywhere within the City of Casey ... whether it’s a plaque in the botanical gardens or in Bunjil Place, I want them removed so they have absolutely no recognition anymore,” he said. “They’ve disgraced themselves and they’ve disgraced the council. They’ve taken something away from me that I totally enjoyed. I loved serving the Casey community. I just want some clarity as to what way it’s going to go.” Since his resignation, Mr Flannery has been working in an operating theatre at a local hospital. He said he has every intention to run for council again in 2024.
Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS
“I want to get back into serving the community again. I want to run again and I want to get my name back on the honour board for the right reasons. At the moment it’s a dishonour board,” he said. Star News understands Mr Flannery has put forward his request to be heard by the administrators at the next council meeting, slated for Tuesday 2 February.“It’s up to them now but a year later, this is still eating at me. I need closure and this is one way that I can get it,“ he said. “I played no part in any downturn or sacking of the council and I feel it’s my duty to say that I don’t want to be a part of or in any way
Bunjil Place. associated with the 2016-20 term.” Casey’s governance manager Rhys Matulis said: “Given the IBAC investigation, it would be inappropriate to comment on that matter. Council has received and will consider Mr Flannery’s request in due course.”
12481470-NG07-21
Almost one year since alleged corruption was exposed within the City of Casey, a former councillor is still fighting to clear his name.
12425088-FA36-19
By Mitchell Clarke
18 STAR NEWS
make the next Paralympic Games and is currently competing on an Off The Track thoroughbred. There are a number of retired racehorses involved in EPA’s program, including fan-favourite Jungle Edge, who finished his career with over $1.7 million in prize money, having won 18 races and placed on 25 occasions from his 89 starts.
Thoroughbred welfare report on the right track
Subscribe to the
berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
with horses for fitness or to simply interact with other equestrian athletes, and we believe thoroughbreds are perfect in this role.” EPA has been a breeding ground for Paralympic athletes, with former jockey and current EPA member Louise Cooper aiming for Paris 2024. Jockey Brenton Primmer is also hoping the
Picture: SUPPLIED
RSPCA Australia has welcomed the release of the report of the Thoroughbred Aftercare Welfare Working Group (TAWWG), hailing it as a significant step forward and urging Ministers, racing authorities and the broader thoroughbred industry to adopt its recommendations. The TAWWG was established in February 2020 following revelations aired on the ABC’s 7.30 in October 2019 about the fate of ex-racing horses in abattoirs and knackeries. RSPCA Australia chief scientist Dr Bidda Jones, who is a member of the group, said the report was a long time coming but contained strong, positive and practical recommendations for improving the welfare of thoroughbreds. “The Australian community knows and understands that horses in the racing industries are more than just commodities – they are sentient animals who deserve to be treated well throughout their entire life,” Dr Jones said. “That’s why Australians were quite rightly appalled after the revelations aired in 2019, and called on governments and the industry in their tens of thousands, to take action.” The federated structure of racing administration in Australia has meant that a national response to the issues raised in the program has been difficult to implement But the RSPCA was very pleased to see this report and supported its recommendations, according to Dr Jones. The report makes 46 recommendations that should all be implemented without delay, Dr Jones said, including the establishment of an independent national body to drive improved outcomes for thoroughbreds at all stages of their lives. “The report recommends that the thoroughbred industry take responsibility and take all reasonable steps to ensure its hors-
The report contains strong, positive and practical recommendations for improving the welfare of thoroughbreds. 260016 Picture: UNSPLASHED es have a good life, including after racing.” “It recommends significant reforms to standards – including enforceable national standards for thoroughbred horses while in racing and breeding – and recommends governments develop national standards for all horses, not just thoroughbreds. While other species (like cattle and sheep) have enforceable national welfare standards, horses do not.” “Crucially, we’re also pleased to see a recommendation for a national traceability register for all horses, which identifies each horse individually along with their locations and owners. Such a register is key to having an effective welfare regime.” Dr Jones said that the report’s recommendations had support from across the industry and from the RSPCA, and should be adopted as soon as possible by the relevant authorities. “It’s the horses who are the most important participants in a race. That’s why safeguarding their welfare throughout their entire lives is crucial, and why we’re pleased to see this significant step today towards making that happen.” berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
Lazarevic said that Psihogios was already dominating open age tournaments at Dandenong. “She’s only 12 but she’s one of the best players in the club, and I’m talking top senior grade men’s and women’s combined,” Lazarevic said. “One of her biggest successes was qualifying for final stage of Olympic qualifiers at end of 2019. The final stage of qualifying was in January 2020 and she was only 11 years old, and next youngest was 18.” Her coach, Michael Mastromonaco said the tournament would be a terrific experience for Psihogios, as it will mark the first time she has competed overseas. “She’ll get to see what the top players are really like,” Mastromonaco said. “She’s got the ability to play more a spinning game than the locals.” “If she gets a good draw she might make it through but she’s competing against 15-yearolds when she’s only 12.” To donate to the page head to gofundme. com/f/help-connie-get-to-portugal
GROUP FUNCTION OR EVENT? Cardinia Cultural Centre CAN CATER AND HOLD YOUR NEXT BIG EVENT. • Weddings and Engagements • Corporate Functions • BIRTHDAYS • SCHOOL EVENTS • SPORTING CLUB EVENTS
AND MORE.. Speak to the friendly staff at the Vista Café to turn your plans into an event in one of Cardinia’s most prestige venues. 40 LAKESIDE BOULEVARD PAKENHAM (CARDINIA CULTURAL CENTRE) BOOKINGS/INQUIRIES:
5940 8994
FOLLOW US @THEVISTACAFE - LEAVE A REVIEW - LOCAL FAVOURITE - FOLLOW US @THEVISTACAFE
berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
Parleen Kaur (left) and Connie Psihogios are off the World Youth Table Tennis Championships in Portugal this week. 260036
Are you holding a
KINDNESS IS KEY - LOCAL FAVOURITE - BE KIND COMMUNITY - KINDNESS IS KEY - LOCAL FAVOURITE - BE KIND COMMUNITY - KINDNESS IS KEY
The Greater Dandenong Table Tennis Association will have two representatives at the 2021 World Youth Table Tennis Championships in Portugal starting Thursday December 2, and are calling on members of the public to help get them there. Dandenong’s Connie Psihogios, 12, and Berwick’s Parleen Kaur, 18, are the only two female junior players from Australia to qualify for the tournament, and a GoFundMe has been established to help cover the costs of their trip. President of the Greater Dandenong Table Tennis Association Aleks Lazarevic established the crowd fundraising page with a goal of raising $7000. “Her (Connie’s) flights are going to cost her around $4000, and entry for the tournament and accommodation is roughly another $4000,” Lazarevic said. “Travelling is very, very expensive at the moment because of Covid. She also has to pay for PCR testing when she leaves Australia and when she arrives back.” Psihogios will have to pay her way there through donations and member contributions from the club, as the government bodies for table tennis are not able to provide significant financial support. As of Monday morning, the campaign had reached just under $4200, including $500 from the Greater Dandenong Council. Greater Dandenong councillor Lana Formoso praised Connie for her “magnificent achievement“ but lamented that a GoFundMe page was needed for her to realise her dreams. Cr Formoso said the lack of funding and sponsorship for table tennis meant the athletes had to pay for their own flights, accommodation and entry fees to represent Australia. “It’s sad when we’re trying to encourage sport and they’re not sure if they can go because of the cost,” she said “She’s got a huge, huge future. She’s so focused, she’s such a hard worker and this is just one step in her career. “To have two girls from Dandenong selected for world championships is phenomenal.” Ranked fifth in the world for her age group, Psihogios has been consistently competing above her age level and will do so again in Portugal when she enters the under 15s competition.
KINDNESS IS KEY - LOCAL FAVOURITE - BE KIND COMMUNITY - KINDNESS IS KEY - LOCAL FAVOURITE - BE KIND COMMUNITY - KINDNESS IS KEY
By Marcus Uhe
Come in and grab a cuppa before you walk around the lake.
12513672-DL38-21
Kaur takes on the world
KINDNESS IS KEY - LOCAL FAVOURITE - BE KIND COMMUNITY - KINDNESS IS KEY - LOCAL FAVOURITE - BE KIND COMMUNITY - KINDNESS IS KEY
Connie and Parleen in training for the World Youth Championships. 260036 Pictures: ALEKS LAZAREVIC
KINDNESS IS KEY - LOCAL FAVOURITE - BE KIND COMMUNITY - KINDNESS IS KEY - LOCAL FAVOURITE - BE KIND COMMUNITY - KINDNESS IS KEY
FOLLOW US @THEVISTACAFE - LEAVE A REVIEW - LOCAL FAVOURITE - FOLLOW US @THEVISTACAFE
Thursday, 2 December, 2021
|
STAR NEWS 19
Up to
50
% Off
*
*Call for Terms & Conditions
12525294-NG49-21
20 STAR NEWS
|
Thursday, 2 December, 2021
berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
Recycling toys brings new joy
Members of Vinnies Victoria’s Berwick Soup Van team
Picture: SREYASI CHAUDHURI
Vinnies launches Christmas Appeal The St Vincent de Paul Society launched its annual Christmas Appeal on last month by highlighting the rise in unemployment figures and continued economic struggles that many will face as a result of the pandemic. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the unemployment rate increased from 4.6 per cent in September to 5.2 per cent in October. Vinnies Victoria chief executive officer Sue Cattermole said employment and financial concerns made for an uncertain and pressured Christmas period for many, rather than a time for celebration. “I wish I could say it’s going to be a hopeful Christmas for everyone this year, after the ending of the lockdowns,” said Cattermole. “But the reality is it won’t, and the need is significant because vulnerable households now have additional pressures this Christmas due to the impact of the lockdowns. “Scores of families and individuals are coming to us every day in urgent need of help. Many could never have imagined the pressures they’re facing, and they’re worried they won’t be able to feed their families, let alone keep a roof over their heads. “These are desperate and painful times for many.” This year’s appeal focuses on two cases
where the Society was able to step in and make a difference in the lives of people doing it tough. Heidi, an expectant mother and her partner, Nikolas, were living in a tent when they first met the Society’s volunteers. Within hours, Vinnies had relocated them to temporary accommodation in a motel, and then into a three-bedroom house within weeks, where they welcomed home their baby Jake after his birth. Another recipient of generosity from the society was Natasha*, who was receiving JobSeeker payments during the pandemic. Her partner was unable to work during the lockdowns and the couple was expecting a child in February. Natasha contacted the society to see if they could assist with setting-up her new baby’s bedroom and received a pram, a cot, a high chair, nappies and clothes, among other donations. “If Vinnies wasn’t around, I don’t know what you would do, or who you could turn to,” Natasha said. The appeal encourages members of the community to donate food or money to cover utility bills and costs of accommodation. A donation of $74 can provide clothing for a child in need while $116 can provide a food
hamper to feed a family. Vinnies Victoria volunteers and services have kept working throughout the pandemic, providing assistance to people in need. Their soup van services served 550,000 meals last year – more than double the year before. Last financial year, the Berwick Soup Van service served 10,000 meals, but already this year they’ve served 4800 in four months as demand is increasing. The public’s support is vital so Vinnies Victoria can keep supplying food, clothes, accommodation, case work for homelessness and domestic violence, and more. In the last two years, members in Berwick and Pakenham provided local people with $270,000 worth of material assistance such as emergency accommodation, food vouchers and hampers, utility bills and educational costs. “It has been an incredibly difficult time for everyone, but I encourage people who can to donate generously to our Christmas Appeal this year,” Ms Cattermole said. To donate, head to donate.vinnies.org.au/ appeals-vic/christmas-appeal-vic *Natasha’s surname was not provided in order to protect her identity.
Cranbourne Food Truck back on the road The Cranbourne Food Truck will be back on the road again providing food, support referral, friendship and fellowship to socially vulnerable and financially disadvantaged members of our community from Monday 6 December. The program in an outreach initiative of the Cranbourne Uniting Church and has been operating since January 2012. Three nights per week, the dedicated team of volunteers serve hot meals cooked by the community, for the community. The truck will be serving food from behind the Westpac bank branch at the corner of Lyall Street and High Street in Cranbourne on Monday and Wednesday between 6.30pm and 7.30pm, and on Saturday from the Cranbourne Regional Uniting Church at 41 Lesdon Avenue between 6.30pm – 7.30pm. According to the Victorian Council of Social Service, 774,000 or 13.2 per cent Victorians live in poverty, and in Cranbourne the rate of poverty is around 19 per cent. Of all people living in poverty in Cranbourne, 13 per cent are unemployed, 11 per cent own their home outright and 46 per cent own their home with a mortgage. One in three of those who live in poverty are families with young children. The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated this complex issue through changes in berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
The Cranbourne Food truck will soon be back on the road. 259544 employment, disruptions to the food supply, increased prices of fresh produce and restrictions on movement. The dinners are an opportunity to meet the community where they are and to chat, share stories and link individuals to appropriate support services. The church also teams up with larger initia-
A first of its kind recycling program is launching at TerraCycle in partnership with Big W Fountain Gate. The Toys for Joy recycling program is providing Australian families with a sustainable solution for recycling their children’s pre-loved toys. With Australia generating 75.8 million tonnes of waste in 2018-19 (up 10 per cent on the previous two years) the initiative aims to reduce the number of toys that could find their way into landfill by giving toys no longer played with, a new lease on life. Terracycle will recycle the toys to help create new play equipment in communities that need it most. BIG W Victoria local area manager Lee Hodson said children grow out of their toys, which end up in landfill. ”Our stores involved in the initial pilot program delivered over 3500kg to TerraCycle for recycling,“ Mr Hodson said. “These results from the trial were incredibly encouraging and I can’t wait to see what our communities achieve together as we bring Toys for Joy to more families across Australia.” TerraCycle Australia general manager Jean Bailliard praised Big W for providing an in-store recycling solution for toys in Australia. “The majority of toys aren’t kerbside recyclable and end up in landfill because they’re made up of complex materials like metal, rubber and a variety of plastics,“ Mr Bailliard said. “It’s incredible to see Big W take on the recycling for all brands of toys and they have now expanded their program to 61 stores to make it even more accessible for Australians.“ Simply drop pre-loved toys into the purpose built Toys for Joy recycling stations which can be found at the front of participating stores, Big W cannot accept play dough, wooden toys, board games, or oversized toys such as bikes, scooters or skateboards. Covid safety measures are in place to ensure Aussie families can drop off their toys safely. The program is now available at Fountain Gate, Bendigo, Echuca, Epping and Highpoint Big W stores, with the aim for Toys for Joy to be introduced in every Big W store by the end of 2022. For more information, visit bigw. com.au/toys-for-joy
Picture: SUPPLIED
tives like Foodbank and Share The Dignity along with local donations from schools, community groups, local organisations and individuals to provide access to fresh fruit, vegetables and non-perishable food and personal care items. To donate, volunteer or get in contact with the truck service, visit cranbourne.ucavictas. org.au/food-truck/
TerraCycle Australia general manager Jean Bailliard is launching a recycling program for pre-loved toys. Picture: SUPPLIED Thursday, 2 December, 2021
|
STAR NEWS 21
FREE
BERWIC
K FEBRUARY
Thursday 10, 2021 , 11 Febr \ STARW uary,EEKLY .COM.AU 2021
berwickn ews.sta
rcommun ity.com.au
12477071 -CG03-21
New class of learnin g
JAf £ PAGE 5 fn¹Ǥ
EVERY WEEK
/berwicksta
rnews
@StarNews
_SE
Out for a spot of summer
PAGE 8
JAf £ fn¹Ǥ
40¢ Inc.
GST
Jax takes the Cup
PAGES 14-1
5
12476975-L B02-21
SPORT
Photos te your st ll Am ories
bos are moving in
Wyndham to enter an residents are being invited which aims amateur photo comp to showcase etitio together how local n durin s came Non-profi g the COVID-19 for Australast group, Bridge Buildpandemic. Wyndham ia (BBFA), is runn ers
This photo
Pick up your favourite local newspaper, the Berwick Star News from local outlets listed below or subscribe to our digital edition and have it sent to your device every week!
Art ensure we never s forget
2020 & Beyo ing the Resid Stron ents nd, You, Me, gerinToge thether boom North comp by Mano ing etitio are all subunrb r Lake set Com , supp of Clyde tion, a new orted which will sfor initia muniambulance of thebeDenn medicstive home for ty Fund , anstaalready hard is Fami BBFA the president at work ly extra oratio quality care. paraMelba proviCorp the group ding high n. Parliamentorganised the Waugh said docu ary Secre photo conte McGhiement how tary Wynd joine st to for a community Health Steve d Bass MP ham stood Tuesd Jordan Crugstron ay 9 Februdurin g as g the ary to nale on landThe pandemic competitio on Matt anno . unce residents erhorn n, for aged Drive.Wyndhamthe new to imagesFor the18 older, is fulland story open , turn to hope, courawhich tell a visua l storypage ge, innov of 3
of Marbie,
taken in
a Hoppers
or patience ation, resili and must ence between January 2020have been taken No digita l photo editin and March 2021 Cash . g is
Coautneciln R ‘o sotaic pe o Crossing backyard, has
been subm itted to the
allow Area manaprizes are on Marchgers Julie on offer. Entried. Doyle O’Brien and 31. with regio es close Steve Deta nal direc the site n https tor Narel ofils: ://bbfaust their Clyde North ralasleia.Capp at m/mnew ysite station. Australas Pictu Bridge Build re:,STEW ia ART CHAM ers for wyndham@ on Facebook or emai BERS
competitio n. (Supplied)
wixsite.co 227907
gmail.com
l bbfa.
ps ec raa’ m
By By Gabr Ales iellaha Capone Payne
Cr Szatk motions. owski’s five All were passe d.
NOW OP
EN YOUR FIN STORE FOERASIAN FOOD UR GROCERY ALL03YO NE WE STOCK ED956S.2 1855 THAI, FILIP INO, BUR
Shop T3A, Manor Lake Manor Lakes Cent ral E: lawule@g s (Next to Man or Lakes mail.com Medical P: 0433 Centre) 572 664
n Road,
12481552
-NG07-21
Serving
and Comp
Melbourne
assionate
for over
75 years
155 Slade
n St, Cranb
CHINESE AND
ourne
MESE, KOR EAN MORE!
-18
Affordable
455 Balla
-DL06-21
6-EPJ16
Pakenham
, Narre Warren, Drou in and Yarra Junction P 5941 5166 12480371
1238704
1242508
8-FA36-1
9
A devious scam has Wyn coun outSome “is tbehav dham been circulating the City on their ing like fire of Casecoun rates, howe for their vulne through- don’tOthe y in cillor rable stop liken a petul recenst have ant ver behaviour come childthe peop at aat under show rsthere ”. . ed the rates publi duringweek s, lurin into payin c meetleing Once. “Som meeting to scammers scam a disco a heate g the paym unted fee, d deba last Tuesdg their the and eone pass has been Counpaid their favou acquwarn ent has cillor cil te scamThe isitioed ay.fact coun the popc mers deba n the have beenwhen in goneorn”. ats all. of the community then like “It’s nmen through, rite gover noth te recon quite ta schoo described Scamchild erupttact lodge Szatkaowsk the are mersren and worry,l; becasite for to ed the a be careful. futur as behaing paym whencoun by ayers Educ and use i ent getting more ratep beliebeing ving to moti attem viewers are ble for thesecilscam e state Crcil Robe dispu ved toa be check ptedte, to obtai “petu andrt Brow ation splitt Miniand via watch whic on, n aput lantcting ster more coun to write phoning split conta mersto Brow inging h allow fullforw thewhen there broad coun child ” ingfive Itne refun the meet e, imita said. a notic also cast live cil servi s them Merlino. ardd by stated that James soph isticated,” are dispu with Cr ne - leavin said. motion ting e of supp ing ce separ on Szatk Cr Josh all and an as Faceb the g them tes too,” ate moti can obtai owski has and raise Mr council shou it alwas minu “Unfortun d conc offici advisook. mon At one Gilligprofi ey for “They need ing them ons Mr erns that for the n a disco an, into thatcoun dolla pointunted s the t- peop ort ately “received ld reiterate wascillor rs of donato be site there moti ‘disco that they remaThe mayorate paids (the to rema force thatlecoun on unt’) ’s alway r Adel thou Onced the its right who concerned refun to vote to inter in assite , while the on etheir rate Road ins Tarnbank accoutions from ding a num Hege s of shou on. unpa ject. victim beldvulne , for aber moneysand need to raisecilwill whichid.was fees. land victim dich was ferredThe schoo ’s money state remarable of l; that.” eit linked tont tober I’m athe 203 ’sWoo in “conc into the debat this- moti rateds the over earmarked at relian anderned awar ofThis has been bit perpmem a nom e deter Cr Szatk a mean we really ce eness of of the in on”. scam inate iorate lexed themers e nonland for const trans- with futur Mr Brow s that about a Mr thetecomm priva pronuncia d bank d and by gover into Browneowsk i stated the make ructi Trug ne deliv secto the nmen matt bicke accou scam said tion on the anina er schoo monPreci runity theofpaym said that the onaccus er of publi to acqu ringthe t mers .” ire “mist that while nt, schoolget to City behaation ey and a coun consiof over ratepayer ls in Wyn akes lf of that ent while hedonations nctitStruc unde cillor derCase away c recor is notture he agree to ’sthe Gillig of abusi As repor howy this perso name made understan are until dham d. He then denc“I’m an toare disco Coun coun also d ”; ven,langu , and ” he thou stageshou with Plan. later that r the dents e as proo tedvers “pron provi cilan the may cil’srelate had and s by that of a age advic ding ounc ld respo appa the Star f. lled the lurch the ght the asked ds rema being they recei e that Schoin to nsibilitye my surna Week Cr , with Victo have thouThe any futur used. pt eviols4W waryyndh resi- e sureAfter by beha comm ly inbeen The victim ght moti that trying to rian theirCivil to ratepayers and am me coun cil undis Septe ents made wason left originand vigila viour, tone Tribu twice, Crthe mon in , doing it impo coun mber s belie Crbeing ctly”. nt,cacy. al rate unpa advo eysay Szatkowsk corre nalted. alsortant been to make he also ratep was by some ayer -Gillig has given viewe unde called that their Adm paid thatpeop and rtake id r stated an not the i’s part inistr and .that ve refun every and for the surname instead addr coun the scam toBrend first the devel le tonig a to dividan thing has prote cil were strate they have coun e the Thename mer. essedded to the Brow look“need oper perm ative and cil to “Communi City. of Case sitene, one Casey at how to ensure gicct vulne obtained ht”, rable him by his intoa 227 the Cath spoke ission aren’ ing resid Resid “urge Aspeop it couldthat plann y council the deba a disresid revieents spers ents’ t olic facili like adults” ty are interested plann entia w on their Educ and le put te tatin said to ing contr for the l lots, said that to cond contiuct Ratepayers ation in own g the in adults behav that agree raise curit wrote anoth nuedthe after for he to y dcheck ment ols scam they NEED , Crappr a point was alarm Offic “We ’ Assoc stronns e pulle aroumers”. place actio Sahaopria er, and s when nonallgover ing ger iation, d out of order na Ram need ed to hear someone Cr Gillig build a schoo te seone coun to tstay nd sites designated toofbe“usin fromgthe esh nmen thing accus INTERV HELP WITthat l there.of this of an phon infras struc ing es - but at the abusi vigila coun langu Crclaim them new need nt and ls and Gillig ENTION H AN cillor Sarah Connan’s motion called ture. sameschoo chamtober”. forage ing provide ve cil”, an comm exam check s to ensu time the for olly to be Cr ORDER by askin re that they City of unity andThe to advise their full name inplethe council asked to publiTarneit MP origi Gillig an g ? , postal addre mayor said you how OPEN FOR vigilant andCasey rates nal notic describedarethe cly support much is was notic chan said, e.“but she did dounot hear owing on ss Now in offic BUSINESS ! He quest e of motion as “ridic ges to his you exact the e consultat ioned Cr please refraif there was any langu ly what Online Consu Szatkowsk ulous”. ions in from using Continuedage, can lts still availa i’s motives Coun it again”. page 7 ble for separ cillors voted on ate
,
MANYwww.m
anningsfuner als.com
.au
Pick up your FREE newspaper from these local outlets... •
•
•
•
• • • • • •
•
•
•
Beaconsfield Beaconsfield Tattslotto 55 Old Princes Highway Beaconsfield Kaye Charles Real Estate Shop 2, 6-10 Old Princes Highway Beaconsfield Bendigo Bank Shop 6, 52-62 Old Princes Highway Beaconsfield Beaconsfield Neighbourhood Centre 8 O Neil Road Beaconsfield Woolworths Beaconsfield 28 Sylvia Road Berwick Brentwood Milkbar 24 Bemersyde Drive Berwick Bemersyde Bakery 6/84 Bemersyde Drive Berwick R and R Real Estate 1 Clyde Road Berwick Century 21 Real Estate 9 Clyde Road Berwick Eden Rise Shopping Village 1 Corner Oshea Rd & Clyde Rd Berwick Coles Supermarket Parkhill Plaza Shopping Centre 1 Corner Oshea Rd & Clyde Rd Berwick Berwick Springs Lucky Lotto Shop 10/1 Corner Oshea Rd & Clyde Rd Berwick Grants Estate Agents 3a Gloucester Avenue
• • • • • • • • • • •
•
•
•
•
BERWICK
•
Berwick Berwick Newsagency 29 High Street Berwick Ray White Real Estate 42 High Street Berwick Alex Scott and Staff Real Estate 49 High Street Berwick Harcourts Real Estate 20 High Street Berwick Neilson Partners 1st National 57 High Street Berwick Gluten Free and Chocolate 9/48 High Street Berwick O’Brien Real Estate 56-58 High Street Berwick St John of God Hospital 75 Kangan Drive Berwick Chris Peake Real Estate 18 Langmore Lane Berwick Woolworths Shopping Centre 1-9 Lyall Road Berwick Mansfield Street Foodmart 157-159 Mansfield Street Berwick Parkhill Plaza News and Lotto Shop 13, 215-225 Parkhill Drive Berwick Chemist Discount Centre Shop 2, 215-225 Parkhill Drive Berwick Coles Supermarket Parkhill Plaza Shopping Centre Shop 19, 215-225 Parkhill Drive Berwick Coles Berwick Central 2 Richardson Grove Berwick Hocking Stuart Real Estate Suite 2, 16 Langsmore Lane
• • • • • • • • • • • •
•
•
• •
Hallam 7 Eleven Service Station 38-40 Hallam South Road Hallam Joes Mini Mart 117 Hinrichsen Drive Hallam Coles Hallam 2 Princes Domain Drive Hallam Raine and Horne Real Estate - Hallam 2 Spring Square Hallam Hallam Square News 42 Spring Square Narre Warren Ritchies IGA Shop 4/14 Webb Street Narre Warren Ritchies IGA Shop 4/14 Webb Street Narre Warren Narre Warren Newsagency 34 Webb Street Narre Warren Fleetwood MiniMart 94-96 Fleetwood Drive Narre Warren Casey Gardens Caravan Park 6 Fullard Road Narre Warren City of Casey 2 Patrick NE Drive Narre Warren Neilson Partners 1st National 418 Princes Highway Narre Warren The Good Food Emporium 15/430–440 Princes Highway Narre Warren Westfield Fountain Gate Shopping Centre 25-55 Princes Highway Narre Warren Coles 25-55 Princes Highway Narre Warren Woolworths 25-55 Princes Highway
•
•
• •
•
• •
•
• •
•
•
•
Narre Warren O’Brien Real Estate Narre Warren 25-55 Princes Highway Narre Warren Coles Express 2 Regency Drive & Princes Highway & Lauderdale Road Narre Warren Only Real Estate 13/3 Webb Street Narre Warren Donaldson Martin Real Estate 43-45 Webb Street Narre Warren Coles Express 155-171 Narre Warren North Road Narre Warren North Marcos IGA 2 Oakview Boulevard Narre Warren North Narre Warren North Newsagency 3/1E Oakview Boulevard Narre Warren South Casey Central Shopping Centre 400 Narre Warren - Cranbourne Road Narre Warren South Coles 400 Narre Warren - Cranbourne Road Narre Warren South Woolworths 400 Narre Warren - Cranbourne Road Narre Warren South Ray White Real Estate Shop 20, 400 Narre Warren Cranbourne Road Narre Warren South Casey News and Lotto Shop 156, 400 Narre Warren - Cranbourne Road Narre Warren South Ritchies Amberly Park 245 Ormond Road
Scan this QR code to Subscribe for FREE now! Or visit: berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au/subscribe 202102116467_1-JW08-21
22 STAR NEWS
|
Thursday, 2 December, 2021
berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
networkclassifieds.com.au
V Carpet Cleaning
V Furniture Removals
Placing your classified advert is so easy...
CASEY CARPET CLEANING
Online: networkclassifieds.com.au (24/7) Phone: 1300 666 808 (Open 8.30-5pm Mon-Fri) Email: sales@networkclassifieds.com.au
✔ Steam and dry cleaning ✔ Tile cleaning ✔ Upholstery cleaning ✔ Leather cleaning
LEIGH HUNTER REMOVALS
24/7 Flood Water Damage Restoration
Fully qualified and insured
• Local, Country & Interstate • Antiques & Pianos a speciality • Cartons & Porta-robes for hire or sale • Full packing available
0401 234 672 or 9799 7229 www.professionalcarpetclean.com.au
We accept payment by:
9707 5700, 9768 9153
V Concrete Products & Services
(1.5% credit card processing fee applies. Cheques and money orders can be posted in or hand delivered to our local office)
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
Deadline for all classifications is 11am Wednesday
Ring Jim for a free quote 0417 054 198 12390512-ACM24-18
0408 585 508, 5998 1127 Support your local tradesman for ALL your concreting needs!
BRIVIS / VULCAN / BONAIRE / BRAEMAR / BREEZE AIR Specialising in air conditioning and heating
33 years experience
General Classifieds
Free quotes, by the hour, the day or by the job
Call Paul 0432 044 875
section of Network Classifieds.
V Electricians
NEAT PLUMBING SERVICE Lic. Number 27186 Hot Water Specialists Blocked Drains
★
12511858-CG36-21
644 780
12438941-CG04-20
24 HOUR SERVICE
No Job Too Small
Jason 1300 644 698
0417 382 700
1 HOUR EMERGENCY PLUMBING
SEWER BLOCKAGES – MACHINE CLEANED
ESTABLISHED 30 YEARS STANDARD RATES ON WEEKENDS gjlawplumbing.com.au 7 DAYS 0419 136 181 - 0419 136 151
12354089-PB23-17
General Notices section of Network Classifieds. V Windows
WINDOWS 1 Window Replacement Service Timber or Aluminium Windows Free Measure and quote
Member HIA and MBA
1238899-CG33-16
J.L. Hutt Electrical
Fully Licenced Builder/Carpenter
Call Lucas 0419 259 266 Jack 0400 895 945
V Plumbing
Call Chris: 0416 079 689 - 5940 7264
V Carpenters
www.proudpainting.com.au
1172347-DJ07-15
★
Removals/pruning Hedging/shaping Line clearing/Palm work Tight access stump grinding Fully Insured/Qualified
1158529-PB42-14
All Types of Domestic & Commercial Work
L&C Tree Services
Commercial/Domestic Decking/pergola/driveways
Interior/ext High quality Free quote
M: 0 4 3 0 3 5 3 0 8 0 Ben
1198421-ACM37-15
9796 9679, 0418 171 867
12367795-LB41-17
12526464-NG49-21
12522603-NG46-21
Anything electrical - 40 years’ experience Reasonable rates and quality assured
section of Network Classifieds.
Contact Trevor: 0403
UÊ/ÀiiÊ- >« }Ê UÊ i`} } UÊ-ÌÕ «Ê,i Û> UÊ Õ ÞÊ+Õ> wi`Ê « Þi` UÊ Õ ÞÊ ÃÕÀi`ÊUÊ ÀiiÊ+Õ Ìià GIPPSLAND UÊ ««Ã > `Ê V> Êv À UÊ/ÀiiÊ,i Û> ÊUÊ/ÀiiÊ*ÀÕ } ÊÊÊ ÛiÀÊÓÇÊÞi>ÀÃ
Contact us 1300 301 678 ÜÜÜ°ÌÀii >Ã °V °>Õ
Trades & Services
Discounts apply
Contactless Quotes & Services Available!
• Domestic • Commercial • Interior • Exterior • Driveways
ON TIME, EVERY TIME
Pensioner discounts available
• Fully qualified • Over 30 years experience
L&L ELECTRICS
• Deckings • Pergolas • Renovations • Bathrooms • Small Excavation Work • Repairs • All aspects of building
Pruning Removal Stump Grinding
Fully Insured
PAULS PAINTING & SON
NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL FREE QUOTE ANY TIME RING 9700 4378 C63804-BG25-8
REC 17042 PIC 38148 AU 06212
www.fairbairns.com.au
section of Network Classifieds.
V Painters/Decorators
RED 6923
9702 4410
Real Estate
Oakfern Tree Care P/L
Phone Geoff 0418 340 825
• SPECIALISING IN ALL TYPES OF CONCRETING/ CONCRETE PATTERN, SLABS • FOUNDATIONS ETC. • ALL DOMESTIC & INDUSTRIAL
• Brivis Evaporative Cooling • Daikin & Rinnai Splits • Pensioner discounts • Evap & Split Service Specials
V Tree Lopping/Surgery
A & F CONCRETING
• Evaporative cooling / ducted heating service and repairs • Installation and supply of split systems, cooling and heating • Installation of evaporative cooling • Hot water service installs and repairs
Call 0432 550 066 or 8707 5522
12355550-ACM25-17
Buy, Rent & Sell in our
Phone Andrew on
Be cool this summer
Free Quotes Over 20 Years’ Experience
C316291-KK18-5
12464078-CG40-20
NEED A LOCAL COOLING & HEATING REPAIRER?
www.settlementplumbing.com.au LIC. 33033
All Bathroom Renovations • Bathrooms • Toilets • Kitchens • Decks • Water proofing • Walls and Floors
Call DOUG AMOS when you present this voucher
t 6OJU 4JUFT t (BSBHFT t %SJWFXBZT t 1FSHPMBT t 1MBJO $PMPVSFE t 4MBUF *NQSFTTJPO t 'BVY #SJDL t &YQPTFE "HHSFHBUF
V Air Conditioning
PLUMBING, HEATING AND COOLING
ECONOMY TILING
Receive 10% off
Andrew Craven Concreting www.andrewcravenconcreting.com.au
12469374-CG46-20
V Tiling
DOMESTIC COMMERCIAL AUTOMOTIVE
C1085227-JO32-13
12435765-SN02-20
Ask about our discounted ongoing advertising rates and how choosing more newspapers gives your advertising more impact and saves you money...
DIGITAL ANTENNAS AMPLIFIERS TV OUTLETS
0409 888 228
V Locksmiths
MEB & SON CONCRETING
Sൾඍඍඅൾආൾඇඍ
HIGHLY EXPERIENCED TECHNICIANS ANTENNA SERVICE ALL AREAS
12449547-FA21-20
VISA/MASTERCARD/EFTPOS
SAME DAY SERVICE
PHONE FOR OBLIGATION FREE QUOTATION
12473880-DL49-20
(include your name, address and phone number)
ANTENNA MAN
AND STORAGE
12468782-FA45-20
15 years experience
We bring our own electricity Truck Mounted Machine
V Television/Video/Audio
C62885-BG24-8
V Deadline
Steve on 0407 704 213
www.networkclassifieds.com.au
Place your ad in print and online
C1072232-JJ4-13
Trades & Services
9703 1530
www.windows1.net.au
with us and get better results
12514849-JW40-21
ADVERTISE CALL 1300 666 808 berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
Thursday, 2 December, 2021
|
STAR NEWS 23
Professional Services
Employment
V Podiatrist
Conductix Wampfler are looking for someone for light assembly and some machining. Qualifications & experience: Assembly work, metal machining, drilling, cutting. Metal working experience is an advantage. Tasks & responsibilities: Light assembly work, packing, machining of metals. Benefits: RDO monthly.
PAKENHAM OFFICER
Based in Hallam, driver required Mon-Fri for Metro Melbourne deliveries in 24 pallet curtainsider. Early starts transporting empty pallets, timber and palletised freight. Please reply to: admin@ dptransport.com.au
OWNER DRIVERS
Lead Podiatrist Ph: 9592 2483 W: www.thefootfolk.com.au 249-251 Ormond Road Narre Warren South
12506316-AV31-21
Joe Spicuglia
12400545-LB38-19
V Markets
LONGWARRY FIRE BRIGAD COUNTRY CR E AFT & PRODUC E MARKET REFER TO FA CEBOOK FO R DETAILS
158 946 Contact: 0419 ask. ired. Bring a m Check in requ
V Adult Services
PAGE 3
Open 7 days
PAGE 3
9775 0201
Advertise with us and get better results
Get 10% Discount Use code: EMPDISC
CALL:
SPOTLIGHT: Major music concert at Rochford
PAGE 6
PAGE 7
Trades & Services
V Massage Therapists ADVERTISERS, in this section are qualified practitioners and offer nonsexual services.
Do you like talking on the phone?
Motoring section of Network Classifieds.
WE ARE RECRUITING INBOUND/OUTBOUND TELEPHONE SALES sales@networkclassifieds.com.au
V Garage Sales
12400498-CG38-18
Find local work in the
Employment section of Network Classifieds.
CALL OR VISIT US ONLINE! networkclassifieds.com.au
PLACE YOUR
INSIDE
12522987-HC47-21
CHOCOLATE LABRADOR Stud Service. Proven. Fully vaccinated. Source No. MB166859. Phone Alisha 0490 886 290.
Buy & Sell in our
Melbourne Cup winner souvenir poster
An opportunity exists for two year one cadet journalists to join the team at Star News Group. This position would suit a Year 12 school leaver seeking to become a trained professional, be paid while training and not incur tertiary education fees. You will be trained as a cadet through the Deakin University training program for three years. We pride ourselves on quality journalism with a strong community connection. The company is Australian owned by individuals with significant news media publishing knowledge and experience. Our company is committed to providing an inspiring, creative workplace, and career that is rewarding. The two positions will be based in Pakenham and Healesville. We are seeking a person with the ability to display initiative and with a minimum Year 12 completion with good study results. You will be trained to newsgather and to produce compelling and timely content for our readers. Duties will include general news reporting, producing editorial content to support advertising features and special publications, photography, covering local events across the region, including some after hours, the ability to file stories to meet production deadlines and to assist with weekly print production, daily online content and proofing of editorial content. Establishing strong community connections and being willing to take on a range of journalism tasks is important. Essential Qualifications: A current driver’s licence and a reliable vehicle. Please forward cover letter and resume to Garry Howe: garry.howe@starnewsgroup.com.au
12423634-SN31-19
48 Davies Avenue, Sunshine North 9364 0770 SWA6566B
Tuesday, 9 November, 2021
Healesville resident wins best history book award
CADET JOURNALIST SUIT YEAR 12 LEAVERS
12502007-DL27-21
1235322622-PB22-17
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
$100/ 30mins
EE DIGI
my c
JASON
12518768-HC45-21
ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE
Rainbow Dolls
PAGE 5
REE DIGI
Phone: 5957 3700 Trades and Classifieds: 1300 666 808
V Positions Vacant
V Pets & Services
OR SOMEONE
By Gabriella Payne
ZZZ QHWZRUNFODVVL´HGV FRP DX
ecem Sunday 5th D ones le • Chips • Sc zz reet • Sausage Si | 15 Bennett St
search for Brooke Blurton’s on love breaks boundaries Australia The Bachelorette
The Cardinia Shire Council is hoping to “breathe some life” back into Pakenham’s
12523608-AV47-21
Fill your position online
1ST SUNDAY ecember) ONTH (March-D OF EVERY M ber
MOVIE GUIDE INSIDE
Looking for love
Main S
NEW STAFF?
General Classifieds
Step into Paradise with Jenny Kee and Linda Jackson
EE BROOKE ELORETTE
We require white late model: 1 & 2T Vans & Trays 4T - 12T Trays / Tauts Minimum guarantees Work in all areas Full training No experience required Early starts
www.conductix.com
NEED
Frock and awe
Looking for a new start or Career?
Call today
V Positions Vacant
Students helping out the homeless
E ME AND SEE
Email applications to: dario.bodanac@conductix.com
We know feet, and we’re here to help!
Mountain Views
pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
Slowly getting back to normal
L38-20
12501151-NG26-21
Unit 2, 1 Stephenson Street, Pakenham info@bondradiology.com.au • www.bondradiology.com.au
HC Truck Driver
V Positions Vacant
12496493-NG22-21
OPEN 7 DAYS • 9132 5073
General Factory Hand
V Positions Vacant
12496404-AV22-21
Bulk Bill Low Dose CT, Digital X-ray, Ultrasound, Digital Dental X-ray & Dexa Scan QR code for easy online booking system
V Positions Vacant
12496404-AV22-21
NON CORPORATE RADIOLOGY IMAGING CLINIC ESTABLISHED BY A CARING & COMPASSIONATE TEAM
V Positions Vacant
12496498-DL22-21
V Medical
V Professional
DISCRIMINATION IN ADVERTISING IS UNLAWFUL The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 1995 makes it unlawful for an advertiser to show any intention to discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy, race, age, marital status, political or religious belief or physical features, disability, lawful sexual activity/sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS status or on the basis of being associated with a person with one of the above characteristics, unless covered by an exception under the Act. As Network Classifieds could be legally liable if an unlawful advertisement is printed, Network Classifieds will not accept advertisements that appear to break the law. For more information about discrimination in advertising, contact your legal advisers or the Equal Opportunity Commission.
Want to place an ad but not sure where to start? Call our helpful classified team between 8:30am-5pm Mon-Fri for FREE advice!
ZZZ QHWZRUNFODVVL´HGV FRP DX
24 STAR NEWS
|
Thursday, 2 December, 2021
berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
SPORT
Eagle eyed By Nick Creely
Judson Clarke, Mac Andrew and Miller Bergman all look good in their Berwick kits, but the Wickers are happy for them to don some new threads.. 259753 Picture: STEW CHAMBERS
Berwick’s bonanza By Tyler Lewis When Berwick Football Club president Glenn Gambetta met the Andrew family many years back, he knew instantly they were special. “His dad is about 6’5 and his mum is about 6’0, they looked like royalty, it was awesome,” he said of his first encounter with Mac Andrew’s parents. Despite being swamped by media commitments after being drafted, Mac Andrew (Pick 5 Gold Coast Suns), Judson Clarke (Pick 30 Richmond) and Miller Bergman (Pick 38 North Melbourne) found time to head back to the old stomping ground for a photo-shoot. The truth is, the famously confident Berwick planned it before the boys heard their names called. “We were so excited – it’s a bit arrogant – but one of the dads had pre-planned that once they get drafted, we will get them to the footy club,” Gambetta said.
“So that photo-shoot we did the other day was half organized three weeks ago.” While admitting the trio didn’t spend much time at Berwick Senior Club – frying much larger fish – the president was over the moon for the ‘brand’ the club is producing with such a plethora of young talent emerging from Edwin Flack Reserve. “I think from our brand point of view, it really supports that,” he said. “We had Oscar Clavarino drafted a few years ago and then these three. “You get 60 guys drafted around the country and three of them are from one club. “I am as proud for the junior club as I am for the senior club. “We really wanted to create a really strong culture that attracted – not only good players – but good people to the club. “The focus is about getting good people to the club and good coaches and then that’ll
flow through to the senior club. “Each year our senior guys go down and train with the juniors, when there is a bye, every senior player in groups of four will go take a junior team for training. “Every team from the under-10’s through to the under-17’s, I think that is important, creating the connection,” Gambetta said. While there is plenty of excitement coming around the trio of stars that are yet to play a game, Gambetta is already excited for the younger brothers of Mac Andrew and also some other Bergman players. “I am assuming they’re going to be 6’5 and super athletic,” he joked of what Mac’s brothers will become. “There are two more to come through; you have big Mac and then those two coming through. “There are a couple Bergman boys coming through too, we could be having this conversation every two years.”
Berwick shooters on target for selection Berwick shooters Sergei Evglevski and Laetisha Scanlan have added further credence to an already outstanding year by being selected in the Australian Team for the 2021 Oceania Games. The Tokyo Olympians were among 27 athletes selected by Shooting Australia, despite the championships being cancelled in July due to the effects of the Covid pandemic. Shooting Australia opted to complete its selection process – with national selection one of the high points of the athlete’s careers. Evglevski was selected for the Men’s 25m Rapid Fire Pistol – in which he finished 17th in Tokyo – while Scanlan earned selection in the Women’s Trap event…in which she narrowly missed an Olympic medal. The 31-year-old Scanlan, who finished fifth at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games behind her gold medal-winning team-mate, Catherine Skinner, looked set for a long-awaited medal in Tokyo after finding herself in a strong position in the six-strong field of finalists. All shooters initially had 25 shots at moving targets, with the finalist with the lowest score being eliminated from the final. The first to go was Scanlan’s Australian teammate, Penny Smith, who hit the target with 13 of her 25 attempts. The remaining five contenders then had an additional five shots each with a further elimination then taking place. Scanlan held her nerve to fight off the challenge of Italy’s Silvana Stanco, leaving four finalists to battle it out for the three medal positions on the dais. berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
Laetisha Scanlan focusses during the Olympic final in Tokyo. 259566 “Sometimes, it’s just one target,” Scanlan told the Gazette in a 2020 interview as she prepared for this year’s games. And those words would prove prophetic, with Scanlan’s fate coming down to what would prove to be her last shot of the final. A direct hit would see the three-time Commonwealth Games gold medallist secure her dream Olympic medal, while a miss would hand the bronze to San Marino’s Alessandra Perilli, chasing her country’s first ever medal.
Picture: AAP
Scanlan was clearly disappointed after missing her final attempt, being eliminated, and handing Perilli the bronze. Slovakia’s Zuzana Rehak-Stefecekova claimed the gold medal with Kayle Browning from the United States winning the silver. Shooting Australia will work with the Oceania Shooting Federation in the planning and delivery of the next Oceania Championships with the date and location yet to be confirmed.
Now that the future of Beaconsfield is secure in the Eastern Football League, its full steam ahead for the Eagles. The long journey to Round 1, 2022 – which will see the Eagles begin their life in Eastern with a home clash against Wantirna South – is one that senior football coach Mick Fogarty is looking forward to, and a new challenge he believes will reinvigorate the club. The Eagles are part of Division 1, joining Bayswater, Croydon, East Ringwood, Lilydale, Mitcham, Montrose, Mooroolbark, Upper Ferntree Gully and Wantirna South in what looms as an intriguing competition after crossing over from the Outer East’s Premier Division. “It gives our footy club and our junior club a real opportunity to play at a really high standard,” Fogarty said. “It’s a very well established league – we’re excited about that. “Divisional football is bloody tough to maintain some real consistency, and in Division 1 I feel is fair in where we sit right now. As a club we’re really looking forward to it.” The Eagles have been busy with the pen as they began pre-season training last week, with the club looking to bolster their list in the wake of their two biggest stars of 2021 – Brandon White and Nick Battle – departing for MPNFL club Devon Meadows under former senior assistant Ryan Hendy. “It was a good week with numbers on the track, and the recruits we’ve been able to get to our footy club look good,” he said. “We’ve got a good batch of Under 17s coming up and Under 19s who played last year that will now become senior footballers. “We played seven in the seniors, so a lot of them got a taste, so we’re hoping to be nice and prepared heading into a strong competition.” Those recruits – that of Tanner Stanton from Garfield, Casey Thomson from Nilma Darnum, youngster Declan Everett from the Wodonga Raiders and Josh Huizing from Kingborough Tigers in Tasmania – will add plenty of experience, skill and energy to the group. “Tanner is a very nice player, uses the footy really well, and has some VFL experience, he’ll slot straight into half-back,” he said. “Brandon White is hard to replace, let’s be honest, and we’re not saying that Tanner will replace him, but he’ll fit the same role. We expect Tanner to be a great release player for us. “Casey Thomson has played some representative footy in Gippsland, he’s a centre half back, and looks a real competitor which is great – that’s probably where we felt we lacked, our defence, and a bit of height, so he’ll provide that. “Declan is a mid-forward from Wodonga thanks to Scotty Meyer – he’s a quality mid, played Murray Bushrangers, some terrific footy with Wodonga and is currently training with Box Hill, so we’re excited by him. “And Josh from Tasmania looks a strong inside mid that will complement our outside mids.” Adding to the fact that 2021 recruit Josh Smith – the Casey Demons listed big man who suffered a season-ending injury just before the season – is also locked and loaded and looking fit, makes for a nice bundle of players to sign at Holm Park. The 18-round Division One competition is set to kick off on 2 April.
Tanner Stanton has joined Beaconsfield. 194764 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS Thursday, 2 December, 2021
|
STAR NEWS 25
SPORT
Cup fever hits Pakenham By David Nagel A huge crowd will be buzzing as some of the best credentialed stayers in the land battle it out for the Listed $300,000 Sportsbet Pakenham Cup (2500m) on Saturday. The Michael Moroney-trained Sound, fresh off a win in the Group-2 Zipping Classic (2400m) at Caulfield on Saturday – headlines a stellar cast of stayers set to lock horns on the Pakenham Racing Club’s (PRC) magnificent turf track at Tynong. Runner-up in the Zipping – Dr Drill – has also been nominated for the Cup, set to be run in front of a huge crowd, on the first weekend of summer, after Covid restrictions stopped patrons from attending last year. This year’s cup will be the eighth rendition of the race at the new track since the Cameron Templeton-trained Captain Fancypantz won the last cup at the club’s former Racecourse Road facility in 2014. PRC Chief Executive Officer, Blair Odgers, said the club was delighted that a recent easing of restrictions would allow the club to share this year’s cup with an excited local community. “We are excited to be able to welcome patrons back trackside,” Odgers said. “The timing is fortune that, just prior or our premier Metropolitan race day – the Sportsbet Pakenham Cup - restrictions have eased to allow us to welcome a large event crowd back to Sportsbet Pakenham for the first time in nearly two years.” Odgers said that interest had been strong for this year’s cup, despite the event sure to have a different look and feel to previous years. “With the short lead time, we have had to make some alterations to what the traditional Sportsbet Pakenham Cup event has been,” Odgers said. “Some of our hospitality offerings have been simplified and streamlined, but the response has been really positive and some of our more popular precincts, such as the Summer Lawn Party, have had strong tickets sales since launch.
A huge crowd will descend on the Pakenham Racing Club on Saturday for the first time since the 2019 Pakenham Cup won by Etah James and jockey Fred Kersley. 202176 Picture: ROB CAREW “We are planning the event inside the 5000-patron Covid-safe plan.” The PRC CEO was delighted with the ongoing support of sponsors – particularly the naming rights sponsor this year. The PRC is also excited to run the first ever race on the now completed 1200-metre chute. “Our premier partner, Sportsbet, will once again support us through the 2021 event and we look forward to hosting them and their guests on course,” Odgers said. “I’m sure they will be offering the best prices available on the Sportsbet Pakenham Cup,
and we are really excited to have the fifth race on the program jumping from the newly extended 1200m chute. “The Sportsbet Pakenham Cup is a pre-purchased only ticketed event, and we encourage everyone to make their travel plans early to avoid any delay in getting trackside.” Details on how to get to and from the track can be found at www.pakcup.com.au PAKENHAM CUP WINNERS – 1979 to 2020 YEAR HORSE TRAINER JOCKEY 2020 Attorney Nash Rawiller 2019 Etah James Fred Kersley
2018 Our Big Mike 2017 Like a Carousel 2016 Pilote D’essai 2015 Our Voodoo Prince 2015 Tooleybuc Kid 2014 Captain Fancypantz 2013 Banca Mo 2012 Dance With Her 2011 Vivid Vixen (NZ) 2010 Blaze Adrift 2009 Sermon 2008 Sand Sweeper (NZ) 2007 Mr Toff (NZ) 2006 Wild Classic 2005 Masai (NZ) 2004 Youthful 2003 Mr Casanova 2002 Lord Kingston 2001 Lord of Illusion 2000 Ultra Smug 1999 Sunny Lane 1998 Atomic Comment 1997 Go Raami 1996 Seductive Belle 1995 Sure Cut (NZ) 1994 Carranqui 1993 Zaparri 1992 Silver Dupion 1991 Gypsy Invader (NZ) 1990 Karawin (NZ) 1989 Fendalton 1988 Parslip 1987 Lake Worth (NZ) 1986 The Vagrant 1985 Amarla 1984 Bright Judge 1983 Kaza Calm 1982 Telopia 1981 Gallant Spectre 1980 Coroner 1979 Coroner
Jye McNeil Linda Meech Reagan Bayliss Damien Oliver Brad Rawiller Damian Lane Ben Knobel Jake Noonan Glen Boss Jason Maskiell David Chipman Mark Flaherty Blake Shinn Noel Callow Greg Childs Peter Mertens Nash Rawiller P. Mertens V. Hall Damien Oliver Danny Brereton Danny Nikolic Ivan Culliver Damien Oliver Rod Griffiths Peter Hutchinson Simon Marshall Alf Mathews A.G. Clarke K. Forrester G. Murphy Rod Griffiths D. Gauci N. Wilson D. Short G. Hall B. Andrews W. Treloar P. Trotter I. Virtue I. Virtue
Reigning champions flex their muscles all over again By Nick Creely DANDENONG DISTRICT CRICKET ASSOCIATION TURF 1 AND 2 REVIEW – ROUND 2 It felt like an eternity ago that Hallam Kalora Park reigned supreme over the DDCA Turf 1 competition and clinched the 2020/21 premiership on that golden grand final day in March. But considering all that has been endured since then, there would be a lot of question marks about just how this season would play out, especially with rampant weather almost playing its part to ruin the season opening round of cricket again. But one thing is for certain – these premiership Hawks are looking primed for another big Turf 1 campaign, overcoming Berwick in the grand final rematch at the same Frawley Road venue that they lifted the cup up only months earlier. The Bears batted first after winning the toss, with a number of changes from its grand final lineup last season, with three class cricketers – Andrew Perrin, Damith Mapa Ralage and Riley Siwes – bolstering the group. But seamer Will Whyte (2/13) had the early say on proceedings, weaving some magic with the new ball to leave the visitors struggling at 2/12. While the Bears struggled to counter the new-ball and tick the scoreboard over, Lachie Brown and Matt Chasemore fought hard to wrestle back some momentum. It wasn’t exactly fluent, more gritty batting that got the visitors on track, but two quick strikes, Brown for a well-made 35 and Chasemore for 22 – both LBW – had the Hawks ready to swoop. Mapa Ralage in his first game since crossing over from Mordialloc – where he enjoyed a stellar career – showcased his experience, 26 STAR NEWS
|
Thursday, 2 December, 2021
absorbing the pressure to get the Bears going. His 39 from 64 balls proved crucial, combining with Matt Robertson (21) and skipper James Wilcock (33 from 27 balls) to lift the Bears to 8/168. While the Bears found themselves in a strong position – removing the Hawks’ top three to leave the home side 3/32 – class and experience came to the fore. In a match-defining partnership, Matt Cox (58) and Jordan Hammond (57) grinded out 101 runs between them, setting up the Hawks to find the runs with four balls to spare, and the perfect start to their premiership defence. Akshat Buch, meanwhile has starred for Springvale South in a comfortable opening round win against Narre Warren. The left-arm tweaker spun the Bloods to victory with a haul of 5/33 as he crossed 30 wickets in just his first 14 games for the club. The Bloods earlier set the reigning Turf 2 premiers 186 for victory after fine knocks from Jack Sketcher (50) and recruit Blade Baxter (42). It was a thriller at Strathaird Recreation Reserve as Vineth Jayasuriya Arachchige (61) proved the hero in Narre South’s one-wicket win against North Dandenong. The Lions were set 145 after a lone-hand from star Maroons skipper Clay McCartney (78), with McCartney spanking seven fours and three sixes despite wickets tumbling around him. The Maroons looked almost certain for victory after bundling out the Lions’ top order and leaving them 5/44 and with Javed Khan (4/29) absolutely dominating. But Jayasuriya Arachchige kept his head, compiling a class half-century despite the pressure mounting. Turf 2 saw an astounding start to the season from Cranbourne stalwart Marty Kelly. The long-time Eagles servant produced
Hallam Kalora Park celebrates an early scalp. 259754 mind-boggling figures of 6/6 – career best first XI figures - against Parkfield in what was truly the perfect start to the 2020/21 Turf 2 season. It was a performance that overwhelmed the Parkers, who couldn’t play Kelly’s stumpto-stump lengths, with the seamer bowling 8.3 overs, and also producing four maidens in his golden spell of bowling. Earlier in the day, the Eagles set the visitors a modest 146 for victory after skipper Pete Sweeney’s classy 51. Despite some fight from Zaron Chanel (33) and Travis D’Souza (30), the visitors struggled, eventually succumbing for 89 in 39.3 overs.
Picture: ROB CAREW
Beaconsfield has got its season off to a strong start, with the Tigers eventually straightening themselves out after some shaky moments against Lyndale. The Tigers were made to work for it all day, with the Dales being sent in but putting together a solid showing with 151 from 41.3 overs. The Dales put themselves in a winning position by dismantling the Tigers top order, leaving the home side needing to scrap together a partnership at 7/81. But Jesse Busacca (51 not out) came to the rescue, producing a clutch half-century, combining in a match-winning 72-run stand with the experienced Callan Tout (31 not out). berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
SPORT
Berwick at its best BERWICK BOWLS Side 1 - Div 1 Section 4 The top side sits atop of the Section ladder after another fantastic performance against Beaumaris at home. Taking 16 points from three rink wins it came down to the last end of the day on ‘Sticks’ Ellard rink. A great effort considering they were down by 10 or more at one stage. Josh McQueen’s rink got up by four after a slow start and the rinks of Rich and Mills had comfortable 12 shot wins. The 1s travel to Pakenham this Friday night to play long-time rivals Pakenham who have put on a live stream of the game so tune in if you can’t make it down to Pakky for the 6.30pm start. Side 2 - Div 2 Section 5 We knew this would be a tough game for the twos and to top it off there had been quite a few changes to the side due to form and unavailability. Playing on Dandy Club’s consistent deck all sides started well and it was neck and neck. Clarkey’s rink had some changes this week and they had the eventual only rink win. The rinks of French and Azzopardi narrowly missed but it was the Hughes rink that had the toughest of days going down by 19 and unfortunately we could only come away with two points. For the most part it was a very competitive contest and let’s hope we can have more stability in selection with availability to give the twos the best chance going forward. They’re hosting Ferntree Gully’s top side next week and we think they’ll get the win. Side 3 - Div 3 Section 6 A fantastic win at home against the undefeated Cranbourne RSL showed the threes can be a real chance to play finals at the end of the season. Only the rink of Thompson’s went down narrowly by two shots with Mills, Down and Lapinskas rinks all winning by 13, six and 10 respectively. A convincing win against one of the early favourites and another big test as the threes take on the strong Cardinia Waters 1 on their synthetic deck. Another win could set up the threes season early on! Side 4 - Div 3 Section 7 We knew Cheltenham were strong after their off-season recruiting for their Div 1 side so for our fours to be playing their twos was going to be a big challenge. Some disappointing results but again with unavailability being a major factor it has been hard to settle this side. Doug Fisher’s rink had a great win but unfortunately the other three
·
·
·
·
Berwick Bowls Club had a great week of results in Pennant play. rinks couldn’t really stay close to the opposition and Cheltenham ran away with the game. Two points taken from the day and the fours now sit equal fourth on shot difference and we’ll in touch and play Parkdale 2 on a similar green to our Green-4 so we are looking for a much improved day for the fours next week. Side 5 - Div 4 Section 6 Although only coming away with two of the 18 points this week the fifths gave it a real shake against Narre’s ‘3rd’ side! It shows our depth and how competitive and strong our sides are this year and the fifths gave a real fighting effort narrowly going down by no more than four on the losing rinks. The fifths need a win to stay in touch and travel to Upwey this week to take on the top side (their second side). It’s a big ask but they showed on Saturday they will fight for every shot until the last end. Side 6 - Div 4 Section 7 Wow…one of the most comprehensive side wins we’ve seen for a while! Overall, the 6s won by a massive 87 shots against Hampton 4! Rink wins by Smith, Watson, Steere and Stoker with the lowest winning margin 18 and the highest 27! They sit second on points and take on Edithvale third side at Edithvale who sit on top of the ladder. A win here might open it right up
·
·
for the 6s to go into the Xmas break on top of the ladder. Side 7 - Div 7 Section 7 (12 a side) Three in a row and only three forfeits for Moorabbin see them above us. Some shuffling of personnel between the 7s and 8s plus the return of Brock, Leon and Blake Keel and young gun Stephen Wakeman saw the 7s just too good for Mordy with a convincing 53 shot win and taking home 16 points for the day. Moorabbin will finally get a game this week which should see Berwick 7 go to the top of the ladder. We are confident our home green advantage will be the difference. Berwick 8 - Div 7 Sect 8 And yes, another win! Five from eight for the day and the 8s also ran out 28-shot victors over Hampton 5. Mike Ferey’s rink getting up by 14 and Wood and Waugh’s rink winning by eight and six respectively. The 8s sit fourth on the ladder and travel to Beaumaris to play their 5s who have only won one game but sit above us due to forfeits. A big win could see the 8s jump to second. Overall, we are in a great position after the early rounds and five wins from eight sides says we are competitive in all sections. Great job Wickers.
·
·
Windy weather can’t stop our junior stars ·
By David Nagel A windy Saturday morning couldn’t stop our local tennis stars from doing their thing with the Berwick District Tennis Association (BDTA) providing juniors with the perfect opportunity to showcase their talent. The great action continued on Sunday, this time in near perfect conditions. SATURDAY Osborne Shield Upper Beaconsfield 0 0:1 v Harkaway 3 6:36, Narre Warren 1 3:39 v Beaconsfield Green2 4:40, Beaconsfield Blue 3 6:36 v Fountain Gate 0 0:10. Rubbers 1 Berwick Blue 3 6:36 v Berwick White 0 0:14, Cranbourne 3 6:47v Beaconsfield 0 2:33, Harkaway 3 6:36 v Narre Warren 0 0:16. Rubbers 2 Berwick 1 3:32 v Drouin 2 4:35, Cranbourne 3 6:36 v Beaconsfield 0 0:4, Fountain Gate 0 1:26 v Bunyip 3 6:41. Rubbers 3 Officer 0 2:36 v Harkaway 3 6:44, Cranbourne 0 1:28 v Berwick 3 6:41, Pakenham – Bye. Rubbers 4 Fountain Gate 1 4:46 v Pakenham 2 5:45, Cranbourne 3 6:40 v Beaconsfield Red 0 1:20, Beaconsfield White 0 0:26 v Officer 3 6:39. Rubbers 5 Bunyip Red 0 0:9 v Pakenham 3 6:36, Beaconsfield wash out Bunyip White, Officer – Bye. Section 1 Harkaway 5:40 v Berwick 3:33, Cranbourne 3:32 v Sandhurst 5:39, Narre Warren North – Bye.
·
·
·
· · · · · ·
berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
Section 7 Cranbourne 5:42 v Narre Warren 3:27, Sandhurst 5:35 v Narre Warren 3:36 North, Clyde – Bye. Section 8 Upper Beaconsfield 1:22 v Officer 7:46, Fountain Gate 7:44 v Sandhurst 1:14, Lang Lang – Bye. SUNDAY Section 9 Berwick 1:21 v Narre Warren 7:45, Beaconhills (Pak) 3:37 v Cranbourne 5:41, Officer 2:22 v Beaconsfield 6:38. Section 10 Pakenham 4:34 v Berwick 4:37, Fountain Gate 1:13 v Officer 7:42, Clyde 2:22 v Tooradin 6:41. Section 11 Berwick Blue 3:26 v Berwick White 5:39, Beaconsfield 1:13 v Cranbourne 7:43, Pakenham – Bye. Section 12 Cranbourne 6:47 v Officer Blue 2:37, Officer White 5:35 v Beaconsfield 3:33, Berwick – Bye. Section 13 Berwick Blue 2:29 v Berwick White 6:43, Fountain Gate 3:24 v Sandhurst 5:30, Narre Warren – Bye. Section 14 Doubles Berwick 2:17 v Clyde 4:30, Narre Warren South 2:27 v Officer 4:28, Narre Warren – Bye. Section 15 Doubles Cranbourne 3:24 v Berwick 3:25, Narre Warren 0:12 v Upper Beaconsfield 6:36, Gloucester – Bye. Section 16 Doubles (4-team section) Officer 0:7 v Narre Warren South 6:36, Tooradin missing results Sandhurst.
·
Emilia Klarica hits a high-forehand for Picture: ROB CAREW Beaconsfield. 258775
·
Section 2 Berwick White 5:44 v Berwick Blue 3:37, Sandhurst missing results Beaconhills (Pak), Narre Warren 2:27 v Narre Warren North 6:45. Section 3 Pakenham 6:39 v Narre Warren 2:26, Narre Warren North 4:37 v Cranbourne Blue 4:35, Cranbourne Gold 2:32 v Clyde 6:42. Section 4 Beaconhills (Pak) 7:42 v Beaconsfield 1:30, Upper Beaconsfield 6:43 v Pakenham 2:27. Section 5 Berwick White 5:35 v Berwick Blue 3:31, Clyde 1:26 v Cranbourne 7:46, Gloucester 3:33 v Narre Warren North 5:40. Section 6 Berwick White 7:43 v Berwick Blue 1:17, Narre Warren South v Cranbourne 3:25, Beaconsfield 5:39 v Pakenham 3:33.
· · · ·
Lookout for young dasher Portia Miller, she broke the centre record for the 200m sprint. Pictures: COURTESY OF BERWICK LAC
Portia on track after new record By Tyler Lewis Edwin Flack Reserve was the place to be on Saturday morning, with over 300 little athletes taking to the track. This week was a special week for the youngsters as it was the second attempt on many events, meaning personal bests were on the horizon. A whopping 563 PB’s were recorded from the future Olympians with 14 athletes recording five. In addition to the shattering of personal records, the Berwick Little Athletics club were gladly forced to re-write its record books, with two centre records broken. Racing at the ground named after great Aussie sprinter – Edwin Flack – Portia Miller (under-10 girls) broke the record for the 200m dash with a dazzling time of 32.40 seconds – look out for Portia at the 2032 Brisbane Olympics. Theodore Eliadis (under-13 boys) was the other record breaker, this time in the shot put, recording a throw of 12.66m. The Club will have three more programs before the holiday break, before returning in January. It’s never too late to join the Berwick Little Aths club, just head to their website berwicklac.com.au.
· · · · · ·
300 little athletes turned out on Saturday morning to smash some personal records. Thursday, 2 December, 2021
|
STAR NEWS 27
Are you looking for a new Property Manager? Switch to a professional service in 3 easy steps.
1. CONSULT 2. ENGAGE 3. APPOINT neilsonpartners.com.au NARRE WARREN | BERWICK | PAKENHAM 12526307-HC49-21
28 STAR NEWS
|
Thursday, 2 December, 2021
berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au