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Thursday, 10 November, 2022
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$1.1m primary school promise
Too close to home By Eleanor Wilson
A truck drives through floodwater on Centre Road, Narre Warren. 306627 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS
Narre Warren’s Aleisha Spencer and daughter Acia were displaced from their homes due to flooding on Centre Road. Picture: SUPPLIED in order for her to gain access to her property, but she was told it would pose a risk to flooding on nearby roads. “Council came and put in a water level measure but that is all,” she said. “They can pump [the water] into a truck, even if they can’t pump it into the wetlands.” City of Casey city and asset planning manager Keri New said pumping the water has
been considered, but said it would have minimal effects as the high water levels in the Melbourne Water Hallam Valley Contour Drain will allow water to flow back in. The road has a strong history of flooding during heavy rainfall and was also impacted by floodwaters when rain lashed the state on 14 October. Ms New said the council is monitoring the
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flooding on Centre Road, which was “a consequence of unprecedented water levels in Melbourne Water’s Hallam Valley Contour Drain“. “With the support of a specialist consultant, we have identified some mitigation options that Melbourne Water could implement to reduce the potential flooding of Centre Road and are awaiting a response from Melbourne Water.” The council has also come under fire from local residents for approving the Casey Green Estate development when it is located in a flood prone area. “It’s a complete design fault. They’ve built it on a floodplain with no design thought for an emergency. It’s so dangerous,” Ms Spencer said. “I feel the council are being negligent, because this is a safety issue.“ The Casey Greens development was approved based on the best available information and flood modelling at the time, Ms New said. “More recent flood modelling is indicating higher flood levels in the Melbourne Water Hallam Valley Contour Drain when compared to any previous modelling,” Ms New said. “Council is continuing to investigate options to reduce flooding impacts in the future.”
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On Sunday 5 November, Narre Warren’s Acia celebrated her fourth birthday at home with mum Aleisha Spencer. But just days before, the pair was walking through floodwater to retrieve clean clothes from their home, after heavy rain caused floodwater to block the only access to the estate they live in. On Thursday 27 October, rainfall flooded a section of Centre Road, near Deblin Drive in Narre Warren - the only intersection that provides access to Casey Green Estate. Up until Saturday 5 November, a section of the road remained logged by 200mm of floodwater, leading Casey Council to raise the issue with Melbourne Water as a matter of urgency. While the road was not closed to traffic, Ms Spencer said it became too dangerous to continue travelling through the flooded road with her young daughter. “I drive a sports model type of car and unfortunately my car became damaged after driving through this water to get myself and my three year old daughter home on Friday,” Ms Spencer said. “I was stuck in the house all weekend as we could not drive through the water.” Research conducted by the University of New South Wales demonstrates that as little as 15cm (150mm) of water is enough for a small vehicle to start to float. From Monday 31 October to Saturday 5 November, the young family resorted to staying with family and friends. “I am now staying at different houses each night with a three year old, who is now very confused and upset that she can’t go home and have all her toys and her usual routine,” Ms Spencer told Star News on Friday 4 November. “I am running out of clothes for work and to be honest it is becoming very stressful not being able to get home.” Ms Spencer said she called Casey Council three times requesting the water to be drained
NEWS
Wood ‘shocked’ by claims By Cam Lucadou-Wells La Trobe MP Jason Wood says he was “shocked” by allegations against a migration agent who had donated to his election campaign fund. The agent was linked to “dozens of unmeritorious” asylum seeker visa claims including for convicted drug traffickers, according to reports on 60 Minutes and The Age. “I was shocked to hear the allegations against [the agent]... the first I heard of these allegations was when contacted by 60 Minutes,” Mr Wood said. Mr Wood was a former chair of the parliamentary joint migration committee and Assistant Minister for Home Affairs. In that time, the agent reportedly donated $26,700 to Mr Wood’s campaign fund, described Mr Wood as a “friend” on a Facebook post and was introduced to senior Liberals. In its report, 60 Minutes emphasised that there was no suggestion that Mr Wood knew of the agent’s “wrong-doings”. In a statement, Mr Wood said he met with stakeholders, the department and law enforcement agencies to “identify gaps in the visa system particularly by rogue migration agents”.
Federal La Trobe MP Jason Wood. 218599 He also introduced “robust measures” to “eliminate the rogue agents and increase the industry’s standards”. “I implemented a number of changes to strengthen oversight of the industry, including a new Code of Conduct for registered migration agents which commenced on 1 March 2022.” Other changes included “improving” the agent registration process, “strengthening” the
powers of the Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (OMARA) and increasing penalties for illegal operators. Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil said the allegations by 60 Minutes “highlight the failure of our visa system”. “I have asked my Department to investigate and provide me with advice on next steps. “In addition, I announced on Monday the
appointment of Dr Martin Parkinson AC PSM, Dr Joanna Howe and Mr John Azarias to guide a comprehensive review of Australia’s migration system.” Ms O’Neil also recently responded to reports of “sexual exploitation, human trafficking and other organised crime” as a result of “grotesque abuse” of the visa and migration system. She labelled the system overseen by Mr Wood and other Liberal Ministers as “broken”. In response, Mr Wood said that “Minister O’Neil should get her party’s broken migration policies fixed first”. “Labor was the one who opposed the strengthening of the character test. “(The) Liberal Coalition Government also proposed criminals to be deported based on their crimes committed, not by the time served - again Labor opposed these changes. “With protection visa applications we proposed applications to be sent and assessed by (the) Migration Assessment Authority instead of the current requirement to be assessed by the (Administrative Appeals Tribunal) which is causing delays. “Once again Labor opposed these changes.”
Major investment vow for Southern Cross Primary School
Shadow education minister David Hodgett (second from left) and Narre Warren North Liberal candidate Timothy Dragan met with Southern Cross Primary School students and staff to share the commitment. Picture: SUPPLIED
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Narre Warren North Liberal candidate Timothy Dragan and shadow education minister David Hodgett met with staff and students from Southern Cross Primary School this week, to announce a significant funding pledge for the school. Under a Matt Guy Liberals and Nationals Government, the Endeavour Hills school will receive $1.1 million towards significant facility upgrades, as well as important school maintenance work. Southern Cross Primary School has approximately 200 students from over 35 different nationalities and is in desperate need of modern, fit-for-purpose facilities, according to the Liberal Party. The Liberals and Nationals’ funding commitment will allow for significant refurbishments to the grounds and enhanced security measures, as well as fixing roofing and student bathroom facilities. “After two years of remote and flexible learning, it’s more important than ever to invest in our schools and deliver quality facilities for all students, and the Liberals and Nationals will do just that,” Shadow Minister for Education, David Hodgett said. Liberal candidate for Narre Warren North, Timothy Dragan, said Southern Cross Primary School students and teachers deserve access to the very best facilities. “I will continue to listen and advocate for our local schools that have long been neglected. I am proud that a Matt Guy Government will see the community get this muchneeded upgrade at Southern Cross Primary School.”
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NEWS
Residents quiz candidates Contentious statements on gender ideology, climate change and nuclear energy were among the discussion points at the Narre Warren North Town Hall forum on the evening of Saturday 29 October. The community forum was organised by the electorate’s Independent candidate Stephen Capon, and entailed a Q and A style discussion on local and broader issues. An open invitation to the forum was extended to the community and all Narre Warren North candidates, which saw Liberal Democrats candidate Stephen Matulec, Liberal candidate Timothy Dragan and Independent candidate Stephen Capon attend. Greens candidate Laura McLean and Labor candidate Belinda Wilson were not in attendance due to prior commitments. After candidates put forward their policy priorities for the 26 November election, discussion quickly turned to more vexed issues, when an online question about gender ideology was asked. The question, from an anonymous contributor on online Q and A platform Slido, read “what are your views [on the] dangerous gender ideology being taught in our school systems?” In response to the question, Liberal candidate Timothy Dragan said he was “100 per cent against it”. “I think it’s very basic biology - XY male, XX female. I don’t think it needs to be disputed any further, any garbage like this should be stopped being taught in schools,” Mr Dragan said. Mr Matulec said in the future he would “not want my kids to learn about these things”, but said it is important for parents to have the maximum choice in their children’s education. “I believe that…as a personal view, obviously maths and English and science should be a fundamental aspect of school and learning,” the Liberal Democrat said. “One size does not fit all for education and I would like to give the schools the [ability] to opt out of the national curriculum to give parents the maximum choice about where they send their kids and what education they would like their kids to receive.” Mr Capon said he had a “similar stance” to his fellow candidates. “I think there has been a dramatic shift in what information has been taught at schools
Narre Warren North Liberal Democrats candidate Stephen Matulec. and I’d probably be looking at a reversal of that, to kind of get back to focusing of education being more about…the actual history, maths, English, a lot of the basic fundamentals of teaching rather than necessarily looking into gender ideology,” he said. When quizzed on climate change, Mr Dragan referenced dissident climatologist Dr Judith Curry to support his argument that “the current ideology behind climate change is not accurate or true”. “Climatologist Dr Judith Curry - a real climatologist I should say - has said that climate is unpredictable and it is a waste of time trying to pretend that there are issues that don’t currently exist,” the Liberal candidate said. “The climate is always changing, I don’t deny that fact, but there is a lot of dispute within the scientific realm about the modern ideology of climate change,” Mr Dragan said. “We are seeing a cycle change between El Nino and La Nina, so there is that cycle of changes that I believe happen...but I think the current ideology behind climate change is not accurate or true. Despite these statements, the 26-year old consultant maintained he is “for the environment”. “I am for removing pollution, keeping energy clean, I don’t have an issue with that, but
Narre Warren North Liberal candidate Timothy Dragan. Pictures: SUPPLIED
we’ve got to be rational. “We’ve got to do it in a way that does not put unnecessary cost of living pressures on people and that is a developing and progressive change.” Mr Capon disputed Mr Dragan’s claims, stating that “the scientists I’ve read say it is something that is occurring and in particular looking at the amount of carbon dioxide, methane, that it is at some of the highest levels we’ve seen in modern times”. “We do need to take action against it, we do need to take steps and look at how we can make sure we aren’t polluting the environment,“ Mr Capon said. Mr Matulec, on the other hand, said he does not “have a specific view on the climate change issue”, but believes legalising nuclear energy to ensure the nation has “clean energy that is cheap, reliable and abundant” is the way forward. Mr Dragan also argued renewable energy is “not actually environmentally friendly”. “I just don’t know why we’re having a conversation about renewables, they are not ready to deliver. They’re just not,” he said. “I don’t know why it keeps getting pushed. Obviously the people who have got their shares in those renewable companies are
pushing it, but let me tell you right now as someone who comes from that background, renewables are not ready yet. “[Renewables] still need a whole lot more time, they take a lot of space and they’re not actually environmentally friendly - they take a lot to manufacture. “I think it’s about time we remove the legislation [against nuclear energy], it’s about time we start building and until it gets built then our short-term solution is gas.” Mr Capon said he was against nuclear energy for environmental impacts it poses and said renewable energy is economically efficient in addition to being environmentally friendly. The Narre Warren North Town Hall was attended by constituents in person at Foundation Learning Centre in Narre Warren and was also live streamed on YouTube. A recording of the forum was later posted on Mr Capon’s YouTube page, but has since been taken down. Star News contacted the candidates involved in the forum, who said they stand by their statements. Mr Dragan clarified that the statements he made reflect his personal views, not those of the Liberal Party policy.
Labor candidate donates $30,000 to his own campaign By Eleanor Wilson Political donation records show Berwick Labor candidate Malik Zaveer has splashed $30,000 on his campaign ahead of the State election on November 26. The records, available to the public on the Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) website, show Mr Zaveer was listed as the donor
and recipient of two donations - a $20,000 donation on 16 September, followed by a $10,000 donation on 11 October. Reforms made to the Electoral Act in 2018 ban anonymous donations above $1080 and require the donor and recipient to disclose donations above this amount to the VEC within 21 days, which must then be published on the VEC website within seven days.
There are no laws against a candidate donating to their own campaign. Multiple donations from a single donor to a single recipient cannot exceed the general donation cap of $4320 in the four years between state elections, however candidates donating to their own campaign are exempt from this cap.
According to the donation records, Mr Zaveer’s donation is among the highest political donations in the state. Mr Zaveer runs a logistics business with his sons and also formed the Lyndhurst Lions Club 12 years ago. He did not respond to Star News’ requests for comment.
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STAR NEWS 3
THE LOWDOWN Q&A
with Deborah Polman from Provenance Artists
Tell us a fun fact about yourself! I love playing basketball. Who is the best person you’ve worked with and why? Calvin Bell. Very interesting person and friend. What would your last meal be? Spaghetti bolognese. What is your most memorable moment? Winning best in show at the great art show.
THREE … facts about the lunar eclipse
1
Next one Tuesday night’s ‘blood moon’ was the last total lunar eclipse for almost three years, with the next eclipse tipped to occur on March 25, 2025.
2
Sunlight A lunar eclipse occurs when Earth blocks sunlight from reaching the Moon, creating a shadow across the lunar surface.
3
Shadows Lunar eclipses occur more often than solar eclipses as the shadow cast by the Earth is a bit larger than the Moon.
What event past or present would you like to witness? Building of the great pyramid. Which three guests, dead or alive, would you invite to dinner? Tutankhamen, Jacob Bellet (my first fleet ancestor) and Michael Jordan. What are you currently listening to, watching or reading? Night of the Dragon trilogy. If you had to compete on MasterChef, what dish would you cook? Roast chicken. What were you like as a kid? I was a tomboy. What was your first job? Sewing lace on handkerchiefs. What are the three most used apps on your phone? Email, Samsung music and Weatherzone.
Deborah Polman from Provenance Artists.
Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS
NEWS
Police nab speeding drivers More than 5000 offences were detected by Victoria Police during Operation Furlong over the Melbourne Cup long weekend, despite widespread wet weather. The five-day, statewide road policing operation saw police targeting high-risk driving behaviour, with a particular focus on speeding, impaired driving, and distraction. In the Casey Police Service Area, officers caught 13 drink drivers, five drug drivers and one combination drug and drink driver. Operation Furlong also picked up 10 disqualified drivers in Casey, as well as seven unlicensed drivers, 22 speeding offences, 17 unregistered drivers and made seven im-
poundments. Five Casey drivers were done for disobeying signs and signals, two were caught without a seatbelt and one driver was fined for using their mobile phone while driving. Across the state, one in every 295 motorists tested were detected for drink driving offences, which is a significant increase on last month’s strike rate over the AFL Grand Final long weekend where one in every 536 motorists were detected for drink driving. A total of 5433 traffic offences were detected during the operation, with almost 40 per cent of those for speeding. There were also 232 mobile phone offences
detected, and automatic number plate recognition technology caught 433 motorists for driving whilst disqualified, suspended or unlicenced. Acting Assistant Commissioner of Road Policing, Justin Goldsmith called the strike rate of drink drivers “extremely concerning”. “As we approach the festive time of the year, we know social events synonymous with alcohol and drug consumption become more frequent,” Mr Goldsmith said. “With so many alternative transport options available, there is absolutely no excuse for drink and drug driving. “We will be focusing our efforts on wide-
spread alcohol and drug testing as we head towards the end of the year, so you can be confident you will be tested and caught, even if you’re only a little bit over the limit.” Three lives were lost on Victorian roads during the long weekend operation, including two motorcyclist fatalities in Wandong on Friday and Woodend on Saturday, and a 24-year-old male driver in Bundoora on Monday, bringing the total number of lives lost to 210 – 26 higher than last year and well above the five-year average of 192. Operation Furlong was conducted from 12.01am Friday 28 October to 11.59pm Tuesday 1 November 2022.
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Operation Furlong targeted high-risk driving behaviour over the Melbourne Cup long weekend. 301063 berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
Police investigate at the location of a fatal hit-run in Hampton Park on Friday 4 November. 306655 Picture: MARCUS UHE
Investigating fatal hit-run By Marcus Uhe and Eleanor Wilson Major Collision Investigation Detectives arrested a 28-year-old Hampton Park man and seized a white Toyota HiAce Van in Hampton Park on Tuesday morning, 8 November, following a fatal hit-run collision outside a Hampton Park primary school last week. He was interviewed and released pending further investigation. Emergency services were called to reports of an injured man on the road at the intersection of Warana Drive and Kilberry Boulevard about 5.20am on Friday 4 November. The pedestrian, 73-year-old Hampton Park man Tony Fornataro, sadly died at the scene. Police said the driver of the vehicle did not stop at the scene. Over the weekend, Tony’s son, David Fornataro, called for the driver or anyone with any knowledge to come forward. Major Collision Investigation Unit Sergeant Mark Amos said the 73-year-old was on his way home from his morning walk when he was struck. He said on Friday that investigators would now turn their focus to identifying the vehicle and driver responsible. “There’s CCTV from all sorts of places, but we’ve still got to work out what we’re actually looking for, because there’s car and buses and all sorts of vehicles in that CCTV, but we’ve actually got to work out which one of those ve-
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hicles is likely to be involved,” Sgt Amos said. “I’ve been in this [work] for a long time now and I still cannot fathom why someone would drive off and leave a human being in the middle of the road to die. “If you’re involved in a crash, you stop. You stop and you deal with what you’ve got to deal with then and there. You don’t leave and let somebody else pick up the pieces. “There’s a lot of work to do in the reconstruction space... so it’s a little bit early to give any indication as to where it’s going or who’s at fault.” The fatality occurred just metres from Kilberry Valley Primary School, adding a level of complexity to the investigation, according to Sgt Amos. “When we’re dealing with the body of a person... you don’t want to expose young children to those sorts of traumas,“ Sgt Amos said. It is believed the roads surrounding the crime scene were blocked in all directions by police from about 6am and students were directed to enter the school through alternate entrances. Police are continuing to establish the exact circumstances around the collision and investigations are ongoing. Anyone with information or dash cam footage that could assist police with their enquiries is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at crimestoppersvic.com.au
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Two injured in car incident By Cam Lucadou-Wells A man and a woman in their 70s were taken to hospital after their out-of-control vehicle destroyed Endeavour Hills’s War Memorial. The Nissan 4WD skittled the marble cenotaph, wooden bollards and a park bench, turning the site into rubble about 3.30pm on 8 November - just days out from Remembrance Day. The male front passenger was taken to The Alfred hospital with a rib injury, while the female driver was taken to Dandenong Hospital with minor injuries. Both were said to be in a stable condition. A witness said the 4WD was leaving the Endeavour Hills Shopping Centre car park’s deeply-potholed exit about 50 metres east of the memorial. The car “T-boned” a city-bound vehicle on Heatherton Road, and then accelerated
out of control across a gravel verge, mounting an embankment and 20 metres of lawn before striking the memorial, he said. The other driver was not injured. A “shocked” Dandenong RSL president John Wells said there was nothing left of the decade-old memorial. The most important thing was that “the victims are OK”, he said. “At the end of the day, people matter more. We can always rebuild the memorial.” There had been no plans for a Remembrance Day service at the memorial, but it hosts an annual Anzac Day service for local schools. “It’s an important memorial to us because Endeavour Hills had nothing, despite having military placements there during World War II. “Our first thoughts are with the victims of the accident. Our second is how we can get a new memorial.”
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Thursday, 10 November, 2022
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STAR NEWS 5
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OPINION
LENSCAPE
Man arrested after pursuit A man has been arrested and charged in Narre Warren following a police pursuit in an allegedly stolen vehicle on Wednesday 2 November. Officers sighted the alleged stolen Mazda sedan on the Monash Freeway just before 10am. Police Airwing were quickly overhead and tracked the vehicle while units on the ground moved in. Stop-sticks were deployed but the Mazda continued driving through the streets of Narre Warren, police said. The Mazda came to a stop in Portee Place where it’s alleged the tyres caught on fire due to tyre shred. The driver allegedly ditched the vehicle but was chased down by police and arrested nearby. A 24-year-old Boolarra man was taken to hospital under police guard. He has since been charged with theft of motor vehicle, theft, possess methylamphetamine, handle stolen goods, four counts of commit indictable offences whilst on bail, contravene condition of bail, drive whilst disqualified, drive in a manner dangerous, fail to stop on police direction and enter intersection on red traffic light. He was remanded to appear before Dandenong Magistrates Court on Thursday 3 November.
Slippery business! Panther batsman Timothy Dudgeon wasn’t the first to come a cropper at the crease at Pearcedale on Saturday. 306764 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS
THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN Thumbs up To A & L who stopped to help us when our car tyre was damaged from a pot hole on the Narre Warren - Cranbourne Road on Sunday 30 October.
Thumbs down To the state Labor Government that will not be extending the Cranbourne train line. Unacceptable in 2022.
Funeral Director
...the little things make a difference
Thumbs down
Thumbs down To the Liberal Party promising to extend the Cranbourne line that they closed when Kennett was in government.
Thumbs down To flooding on Ballarto Road around the housing estates in Cranbourne.
Thumbs up
To soaring petrol prices.
To our veterans this Remembrance Day.
Thumbs up
Thumbs down
To sunny spring weather.
To banning blankets in the office.
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Following a severe accident which left her with multiple spinal fractures, Garfield’s Kelly Fitzgerald has made a remarkable recovery to complete her first half-ironman event. Here’s what our Facebook readers had to say. Felicia Louise: What an incredible testimony of strength and resilience, through such a rotten ordeal. Well done to you! Bronwyn Wallace: Wow Kelly, truly inspirational. Judee Cook: Well done Kelly. Great effort. An inspiration for us all. Good luck for the future. Kate Paynter: What an inspiration! Clare McCormack: Well done Kelly and congratulations. Awesome effort. Sabrina Pozzobon: Go Kelly.
NEWS
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SOCIALLY SPEAKING
Locals attend rally Casey Cardinia for Refugees (CCR), along with hundreds of refugees and their supporters, gathered outside the State Library of Victoria on Saturday 5 November to demand permanent visas for refugees on temporary and bridging visas. Despair in refugee communities is reaching boiling point, as Labor’s budget last week did not address any of the election promises regarding refugees, the group said. Those promises include abolishing the Coalition’s “fast track” system which denied protection to about 10,000 people who are living in an anxious limbo, and granting permanent visas to refugees on temporary visas (TPVs and SHEVs, 19,000), the group said. “For 10 years, these 31,000 people have led precarious existence on temporary visas that have had to be renewed; they have struggled to find permanent jobs, been denied family reunion and denied even the right to travel and access to tertiary education,” Lucy Honan from the Refugee Action Collective said. “Thousands are destitute with no access to income support and others with no right to work.” Labor has promised to scrap the fast track system, but there is no commitment to review the rejected cases, according to CCR. Afghans who were refused a protection visa on the false basis that Kabul was safe are still
Thursday, 10 November, 2022
Hundreds attended the rally on Saturday 5 November. 307135 on “removal pending” bridging visas, or on expired bridging visas with no income support and no right to work, CCL said. Rally attendee Roman, a refugee who was detained on Nauru, said his experiences in Nauru cause him to suffer nightmares. “Stop the unjust policy by giving us our freedom back,” he said. “It took only two days to introduce temporary visas, but is taking months to reverse,” fellow attendee Irfan Ali said.
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“Refugees have been isolated because to comply with SHEV conditions they have been sent to the countryside for years. Travel restrictions have led to separation of parents, kids and partners.” October’s Federal Budget included $20 million for the Adult Migrant English Program to increase case management support for students and access to flexible delivery options and $42.2 million over two years to increase visa processing in the Department of Home Affairs. berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
Driver jailed after freeway ‘drag race’ By Cam Lucadou-Wells A driver has been jailed after a two-car ‘drag race’ on Monash Freeway ended in a “catastrophic” crash. Ahsannullah Rezaie, 22, of Narre Warren South, pleaded guilty in the Victorian County Court to negligently causing serious injury to the other driver, dangerous driving and cannabis possession. Judge Michael O’Connell said the two drivers had left in a convoy from a shisha lounge in Dandenong about 10.30pm on 28 December. Over an eight kilometre stretch, the pair raced each other at high speed and weaved between traffic on the freeway’s city-bound lanes. A witness remembered his car shaking “violently” as the pair sped past him on either side. “It felt suicidal,” he told a committal hearing. “Like speeding into a pack of cars at a rate in which I’d never seen someone hooning before.” Others estimated speeds of up to 150km/h, at times with one of the drivers tailgating the other. It came to an end in a roadworks zone with a reduced 80 km/h speed limit, concrete barriers and no emergency lane. The other driver Sayed Reza Hashemi lost control of his ute, spun across four lanes, crashed sideways into a concrete pillar at the Springvale Road overpass and flipped. Police estimated Hashemi’s ute started to “yaw” at a speed between 110km/h-129km/h. Rezaie, who was driving in front, didn’t see the crash. He returned to the scene but didn’t
identify himself to police. On his later arrest at his home, his Camry’s distinctive black decals were found to be removed. He denied involvement in Mr Hashemi’s crash and told police it was “unfair” that he was charged. Judge O’Connell said it was not unfair at all. Those racing or hooning needed to understand they would be held responsible for “catastrophic” outcomes. Rezaie’s driving was a “substantial and operative” cause of Mr Hashemi’s life-threatening injuries and a danger to the public. Their “long and frightening” drive predictably ended in disaster, Judge O’Connell said. Mr Hashemi was taken to The Alfred Hospital in a critical condition with significant head injuries. He underwent emergency brain sur-
gery and was in a coma for two weeks. His front passenger escaped with minor injuries. Nearly two years on, Mr Hashemi was unlikely to recover full functioning for “many months to years, if at all,” Judge O’Connell noted. He endures memory loss, mood swings, exhaustion and can’t work as a carpenter or labourer. “My brain is not the same as it was before,” Mr Hashemi stated to the court. Born in Afghanistan, Rezaie migrated with family to Australia in 2017. They’ve since lived in Dandenong, Hampton Park and Narre Warren South. He had passed his VCE despite arriving with little English. He recently started paid work at a real estate, which significantly helped with his family’s mortgage. It was an achievement for which he was “justifiably proud” of, Judge O’Connell said. His genuine remorse, youth and lack of mental illness, drug issues nor prior convictions were noted. His rehabilitation prospects were “very good”. Frequently, young offenders of otherwise good character were involved in such offending, the judge said. Rezaie was at risk of deportation if jailed for 12 months or more. He was jailed for six months, followed by a two-year community corrections order. He was disqualified from driving for two years.
The driver returned an evidentiary breath test reading of 0.09. 253041
Driver caught over the limit A driver was found to be over the limit after she was intercepted by police in Berwick early on Saturday 5 November, before being caught behind the wheel again a short time later. Greater Dandenong Highway Patrol intercepted the 2020 Volvo XC40 on Nixon Drive about 2.15am. The driver, a 34-year-old woman from Officer, returned an evidentiary breath test of 0.09. Her licence was cancelled and she was disqualified from driving for six months. It is alleged the woman was then seen driving out of Nixon Drive a short time later by the same police members. Her licence was immediately suspended, and she was expected to be charged on summons with drink driving.
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Eric’s as proud as punch By David Nagel A wonderful feeling of satisfaction swept through the body of Eric Sydenham after the 73-year-old received the coveted Bowls Australia Volunteer of the Year Award on the Gold Coast in early October. Sydenham felt wonderful personal fulfilment - and so he should after being selected from over 1800 bowls club from across the country - but his immediate gratitude turned to those he had worked beside to make the Narre Warren Bowls Club one of the most respected and progressive bowls clubs in the land. “I’m still pinching myself now, it was unbelievable, to be in a room with people that I have idolised since I started playing bowls…it was like having all your heroes in the one room and you get to talk to them,” Sydenham said. “I was speechless, in a daze, but when I got up on stage and started to talk there was one thing that struck me. “I’m so proud of the fact that we were able to do this for Narre Warren, it’s a club great, one of the best clubs you could ever belong to. “We started out as a little club and we are now regarded as a pretty major club in Victoria, with the growth we’ve had and what we’ve been able to achieve. “To be able to receive something like this, on behalf of all the people at the club, who work and volunteer to achieve what we have, was the most important thing for me on the night. “A lot of us have worked hard to put Narre Warren on the map. “Part of our original mantra is that we’re a community club, a community hub, and we want to make ourselves the best small club in Victoria. “But we’ve had to elevate that ambition somewhat, due to the rapid rate of our growth.” Like most bowlers of his vintage, the story of Eric Sydenham has great depth and character. He was born in Sydney where his dad Ned was a very good bowler, even receiving a special write up in the Daily Mirror regarding him as one of the finest bowlers to have never represented New South Wales. But while the bowling bug was hereditary, it was golf that was Eric’s early passion. He played regularly in New Guinea, where he was stationed as a specialist lender with the Commonwealth Bank in 1982. He moved there with his wife Estelle, and three children, Siobojn, Erin and Sean, and discovered his love for bowls while there. “I’d walk past the bowls club on the way home from work, have Friday night drinks there, and pretty soon I was playing socially on really heavy greens and I liked it,” Sydenham recalls. The family then moved to Perth in 1984, where Eric’s passion for bowls grew even fonder, before a stint in Kununurra, in the East
Bowls Australia’s Volunteer of the Year, Eric Sydenham, proudly holds his award under the magnificent facilities he played a huge part in creating at the Narre Warren Bowls Club. 304945 Picture: ROB CAREW Kimberley, gave the first hint of his off-rink administration skills. “The only option for playing bowls in Kununurra was on the outdoor cricket nets, an old synthetic surface that had paint and ridges all over it,” Eric said. “I said to everyone ‘this isn’t bowls,’ so we got some like-minded people together and convinced the Sports Club to build a bowling green. “I spent many weekends on the vibrating roller and the water truck, helping build the first sand-filled synthetic green in East Kimberley. “The nearest clubs were Broome, 11,000 kilometres to the west, and Katherine, which was 550 kilometres to the east (laughs). “I only got to have one roll-up before heading back to Perth, but I was back there not long ago and it’s still going strong 34 years later.” Sydenham and his family returned to Perth in 1988, where he played Premier League bowls and instigated the initial change from creams to coloured clothing, before the lure of grandchildren saw he and Estelle move to Narre Warren in 2013. Their new home was smack-bang in the middle of the Hampton Park and Narre Warren bowls clubs, with a roll-up and beer with the president of Narre Warren making the final decision an easy one. Within three years, Sydenham was president himself. “Narre Warren was a nice social club that was built in 1987 and had not long migrated from West Gippsland to the Metro region,” Sydenham explained. “But it wasn’t going forward, and if you’re not going forward, you’re going back. “We formed a committee, six years ago. “I was president and we had people with backgrounds in engineering and commerce who got together and formulated a five-year plan.
“We organised morning teas for the Federal and State members of our electorate and we told them what our plan was and that we wanted to build a roof over one of our greens. “Looking back now, we achieved most of the things in that plan.” Sydenham spent two years as president, finishing in 2018, before becoming the Major Projects Manager at the club. In unison with new president Peter Groom, the team at Narre Warren spent five years rounding up the funds to make the roof-top project a reality. Sydenham even spent time in New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria looking at the different roofs of clubs to get the best-case scenario at Narre Warren. The build was supported with $500,000 from both the Federal and State Government, $390,000 from the Australian Sports Commission, $50,000 from Casey Council, along with a number of community donations. “We raised enough money to build two roofs rather than one, and we tried to think of everything,” Sydenham said proudly. “We have vision impaired bowlers and they gave feedback on what their challenges are playing bowls. “That resulted in the club including a unique lighting system that allows the club to increase the lightning intensity for vision impaired bowlers when needed. “Building commenced on March 1, 2021, and was completed on July 1, 2021.” The two new roofs have transformed the club in a positive way, with participation (sorry for this) going through the roof! “We’ve more than doubled our bowls memberships and our social memberships have increased even more,” Sydenham, secretary for the last three years, said. “Our participation rate has gone up incredibly. “Social events, formerly we had 20 to 25
playing, now we have 80 playing outside of pennant season, and 50 or 60 on a Wednesday. “We’ve also started some other competitions, that are played in other states, that are proving very popular as well.” As well as building two immense roofing structures, the Narre Warren Bowls Club has also been at the forefront of scoreboard technology, working with a local company to develop a special product that takes pride of place at the club. “The scoreboard system is unique, and was developed with a local company from Cheltenham, who had only ever done cricket and footy grounds before,” Sydenham said. “We wanted them to help us put up a video screen at the front of the club, to help promote what we are doing, and they wanted to get involved in bowling clubs. “We formed a partnership, giving them the background of bowling clubs and scoring and developing a set up that no-one else in the world has got. “It’s so sought after that the biggest bowls club in Australia, Tweed Heads Bowls Club, is sending down a delegation to look at our scoreboard and roof set up as part of their $16million redevelopment.” Narre Warren also received a special visit towards the end of October, with Steve Glasson – who was elevated to legend status in the Bowls Australia Hall of Fame on the same night that Sydenham received his award – excited by the club’s facilities. “He hadn’t seen it before and his response was ‘this is absolutely amazing’,” Sydenham said. “He said we are probably one of the only clubs in Australia that is trying to increase the number of greens, because a lot of clubs are losing greens.” Sydenham, also involved in sponsorship, fundraising and cooking, is currently project manager for the development of a third green at Narre Warren, a four-rink set up that is also planned to be undercover. Sydenham and the club are currently in preliminary discussions with council about acquiring the car park, at the northern end of the current greens, which is owned by Westfield. The City of Casey, which regards the complex at Narre Warren as the “Jewell in the Crown” of its sporting facilities, is also investing $750,000 on major renovations to the club, which will bring the facility up to the standards of modern times. Eric Sydenham still bowls twice a week, in Saturday and Tuesday pennant, and can’t imagine his life without bowls. And he can’t imagine his life without those he had worked beside to make the Narre Warren Bowls Club one of the most respected and progressive bowls clubs in the land.
History comes alive at our local Berwick Cemetery By Lyne McGregor* After the heavy rains of the week and even the day prior, Sunday 30 October shone its best for the Narre Warren and District Family History Group. A cemetery tour was planned for Berwick Cemetery, where the group has conducted tours previously. The large number of visitors were put into groups to tour 15 graves and listen to stories of those interred. The graves this time were of some of our returned service men from WWI, pioneers of the district and the unsolved murder victims Frederick and Annie Sheard. In the 1850s, land was chosen for the Berwick Cemetery with the first interred being George Moore and children of the Buchanan, Brisbane and Wilson pioneer families. Graves of note at Berwick include those of storekeeper William Brisbane, hotelkeeper Robert Bain and Dr Elmes, as well as various members of the Greaves, Kelly, O’Connor, Robinson, Vieusseux and Barr families. Visited on this tour was Dr Elmes who was the 8 STAR NEWS
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Thursday, 10 November, 2022
Narre Warren and District Family History Group volunteers spend time researching the pioneers of Casey and Cardinia. Picture: IAN GEORGE public vaccinator and he also held the position of superintendent of the asylum of inebriates in Upper Beaconsfield. The Elmes family lost a son to the First World War and a daughter to the Spanish Flu epidemic in 1919. Robert Bain and his family are the name behind the Border Hotel or as known today, the Berwick Hotel Robert and his wife Susan had 11 children with two children dying in infancy.
Their family grave has Robert and Susan with seven of their children and a grandson interred. Brigadier General Cecil Henry Foott was in an unmarked grave until 2015. Cecil started his military career in March 1895. He had served in the Queensland Militia Garrison and was promoted to Captain in the new formed Royal Australian Artillery. From Captain, Cecil became a Major and was Chief Engineer in 1909. By this time Cecil was married to Isobel McDonald and they had a family of three children. Cecil trained at the Staff College in Camberley England, before being attached to the British Army. When war broke out, Cecil was requested to be deputy adjutant and quartermaster for the first AIF. In 1926, Cecil and his second wife Agnita moved to Upper Beaconsfield in 1926. Cecil was interred at Berwick in 1942. Mrs Barnes, a neighbour of Frederick and Annie Sheard, discovered the bodies of the couple on Monday 13 June 1921. They had been murdered with their house ransacked. They were in night attire and were found
huddled in their bedroom. Frederick had defence wounds to his arms and leg. There was blood stained footprints in the house but no tracks leading from the house despite trackers’ efforts. A couple of men were initial suspects and charges were laid against John King and Edward Jenkins but were later dropped as there was insufficient evidence to secure a conviction. The volunteers at the Narre Warren and District Family History Group have a research room at the Cranbourne Library, open to visitors wishing to research their family histories. On Tuesday and Saturday, the rooms are open from 11am to 2 pm. The group also has a huge amount of information about the pioneers of the Casey Cardinia area and have conducted tours at other local cemeteries. If you would like to learn more or become involved with the group please pop into the Lorraine Taylor Research Room at Cranbourne Library or contact Jane Rivett Carnac 0412 084 671. * Lyne McGregor is the publicity officer at Narre Warren and District Family History Group. berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
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STAR NEWS 9
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Council has extended the Doveton Pool in Park’s summer season. 231126
Season extended By Marcus Uhe
Paul Dekmetzian proudly displays his latest books at an Akoonah Park Men’s Shed meeting.
Picture: ELEANOR WILSON
Cargo’s trips go on By Eleanor Wilson For Akoonah Park Men’s Shed committee member Paul Dekmetzian, the biggest challenge in writing a series of 12 children’s books is “making the next book as good as the last”. Mr Dekmetzian is working on the fourth installment of The Adventures of Cargo the Army Truck, after finishing off books two and three in recent months. The books follow the true story of Cargo, a 2.5 ton 4 x 4 cargo truck with a rich history of local service in the Australian Army from the mid ’60s to the mid ’80s. But Cargo’s work during its retirement days has been equally significant. Purchased by William Baird OAM in 1984, the truck spent 15 years servicing the remote New South Wales communities of Hay and Ivanhoe, where standard cars and trucks struggled to traverse the unsealed, muddy roads. Together, Mr Baird and Cargo carried food, mail and essential supplies to the isolated communities, who would otherwise be stuck without service for weeks at a time, according to Mr Dekmetzian. An Army Reserve Veteran and Victorian
Military Vehicle Corp (VMVC) member, Mr Dekmetzian purchased and restored the truck in 2014, and still drives it to this day. “When I bought the truck from Hay it had been on the market for several months and there was some controversy in the community as to what they should do with it because it was a historical truck for the community,” he said. “I’m mindful that the people of Hay will read these books and it will resonate with them as well, so I’m trying to meet my duty to convey the story to the little ones.” The second installment of The Adventures of Cargo the Army Truck, named The Long and Muddy Road, is “a little bit dark”, he said. “There are darker colours involved and that is to demonstrate the difficulties of servicing remote communities,” he said. “I’m keen for [the readers] to think about it, as to what happens in remote communities, who goes out to these frontiers and who services them, how the doctors work.” “I’m interested in igniting a little bit of understanding and thinking in the kids on concepts... to start them off on a new critical thinking path.” Book three of the 12-piece series, called
Cargo is Ready To Go, marks Cargo’s breakout story, where the truck “starts being himself”. “You’ve got images of girls and boys playing footy, of a dad fishing and people at the beach,” Mr Dekmetzian said. “I’m hoping there’s an interaction between the reader and the child and the child comes back and says… I don’t know what this means. Can you check it?” The Beaconsfield resident said he hopes the children’s books can serve as a boost of happiness for kids. “It’s a story I’ve come across that has grabbed me more than anything you could imagine and I’ve gotten a great deal out of it,” he said. “These days I think that people are struggling a little bit, we’re all getting over Covid, we’ve all had our difficulties. “I think people need some inspirational things to think about to bring happiness. And that’s why I decided to go with children’s books.” The Adventures of Cargo the Army Truck series is available for purchase on Amazon at bit.ly/3UoZv2I
Doveton is set to be much more bearable this summer thanks to the City of Casey’s decision to extend the Doveton Pool in the Park’s open period. The council announced on Friday 4 November the decision to extend the facility’s summer season with the pool now opening from Saturday 19 November until Sunday 2 April 2023. The trigger closure temperature has also been decreased so the pool will remain open provided Melbourne’s temperature is 25 degrees or above. City of Casey chair of administrators Noelene Duff PSM is looking forward to seeing the community enjoy the pool over the summer. “Doveton Pool in the Park is a popular summer facility in Casey and a muchloved community asset,” said Ms Duff. “The increase in operating hours will provide residents with more access to the facility and allow them to take advantage of what it has on offer throughout the summer season.” The council adopted the $21.14 million Doveton Pool in the Park master plan in August, in what was a backflip on a previous plan in 2021 to close the facility and have it replaced with parkland, following fierce public advocacy. The project is contingent on receiving 50 per cent funding from State and Federal Governments. Bruce MP Julian Hill said in August that he will “back” a Federal contribution. “Labor will be transparent about where and why funding is allocated and will not repeat the rorts and corruption of the Liberals, so I look forward to council presenting the full business case as soon as they have completed it,” Mr Hill said. For more information visit One Casey’s Doveton Pool In the Park web page.
Former minister Peter Reith dies following brave battle Former cabinet minister Peter Reith, who was seen as the “hard man” of the Howard government, has died in Melbourne aged 72. “It is with deep sadness that we confirm that following a brave battle with Alzheimer’s disease Peter Reith died peacefully on the afternoon of 8 November 2022,” his family said in a tweet on Tuesday evening. Mr Reith held the seat of Flinders in the House of Representatives from 1982 to 1983 and from 1984 to 2001. He was the Liberal party’s deputy leader from 1990 to 1993 and served as a minister in the Howard government, having the portfolios of industrial relations, small business, employment and workplace relations and finally defence. Opposition Leader Peter Dutton paid tribute to Mr Reith as a “stalwart” of the Liberal Party whose political legacy was extensive. “He will be remembered most, however, for his fearlessness in the face of extreme union intimidation - especially by freeing up the waterfront to ensure Australia had a more productive, forward-looking economy. “He was an architect of pivotal workplace reform which put the interests of employers 10 STAR NEWS
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and employees first,” Mr Dutton said. As defence minister Mr Reith was heavily involved in the Children Overboard issue, which was widely seen as a cynical government ploy to demonise asylum seekers on the eve of the 2001 election. Mr Reith, with Prime Minister John Howard and Immigration Minister Philip Ruddock, set off a furore by saying - on navy advice - that children had been thrown off a leaky boat, apparently to force HMAS Adelaide to take them on board. It wasn’t true, as some in the navy quickly realised and reported. But the government, and particularly Mr Reith, made no attempt to correct the record until after the election a month later. After leaving politics Mr Reith served as a company director and political commentator. Mr Reith leaves his wife Kerrie, and four sons Paul, Simon, David and Robert.
Peter Reith, a former cabinet minister and Liberal Party deputy leader, has died aged 72.
Thursday, 10 November, 2022
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NEWS
Families meet for climate Families across the country are coming together to call on political leaders to commit to putting children first when making decisions, as the Australian Parents For Climate Action marks its National Month of Action. Local Casey Cardinia parents are holding a Play Fest family meet-up on Sunday 13 November at 10.30am at Deep Creek Eco Playspace - 62 Cameron Way in Pakenham - and are hoping to bring local families together to show that the community wants urgent action on climate change. Parent of two, Christine Micah is helping to organise the event and said she hoped the event would show that the community wants to see ambitious climate action so our kids can thrive in a clean economy and environment. “Our kids’ future depends on how our political leaders respond to climate change now,” Christine said. “We want our political leaders to commit to making decisions in the best interest of our kids.” The Play Fest will be a positive, familyfriendly event open to all members of the community. “We know parents and grandparents across Casey and Cardinia care about climate change and the impact it will have on their kids’ lives, and we hope we can get that message out on Sunday,” Christine said. Many local families have already taken steps to reduce their climate footprint and transition to clean energy, and many more are trying to figure out how they can afford to make it work for their situation. “We know that so much work needs to be done, but it’s fantastic to see such momentum growing across our community,” she said. “Parents around Australia are organising events for their local communities to bring families together in a positive initiative to show
Christine Micah is organising a Play Fest meet-up to profile the need for urgent action on climate change. 279265 their support for urgent action on climate for the sake of their kids’ futures,” Australian Parents for Climate Action’s national community
organiser Laura Grufas said. “By drastically reducing our emissions and investing in renewable energy sources, we help
Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS
create a future for our children where they will benefit from a strong, clean economy and a safer climate.”
BUSINESS PROFILE
Celebrity chef and Stockland Food Ambassador Miguel Maestre was the suprise chef at the grand opening of Halcyon Berwick’s new luxury facilities and Clubhouse.
Connecting over good food: Surprise guest at Halcyon Celebrity chef and Stockland Food Ambassador Miguel Maestre was a surprise guest at the red carpet grand opening of Halcyon Berwick’s new luxury facilities and Clubhouse in September. More than 170 guests, made up of homeowners and buyers from the boutique over 50s lifestyle community were treated to a paella cooking demonstration from Miguel, the Spanberwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
ish born chef known as the ‘Crazy Bull’. He cooked up a storm in the alfresco area of the Clubhouse, where guests interacted with him while he prepared three delicious paella dishes (chicken and chorizo, prawn and vegetarian). Miguel thoroughly entertained the crowd, not just with his cooking prowess, but his singing too. He picked up the microphone
and gave guests a rendition of La Bamba, hitting the dance floor to the fabulous Baker Boys Band who were on hand to provide the soundtrack to the evening. He also provided copies of his cookbook Feast, signing each one and personalising it for each guest. Miguel said: “I’m so excited to be working
with Stockland and being able to visit all the wonderful homeowners at Halcyon Communities to share my passion for cooking and the joy of connecting over good food”. “The homes and facilities at these communities are first class and the homeowners have a wonderful time.” He joked: “I can’t wait to move in!”
Thursday, 10 November, 2022
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STAR NEWS 11
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Training for frontline work By Sahar Foladi A widely-publicised tragedy thrust Rosie Batty into the role of advocate and campaigner for the end of family and domestic violence (DV) in Australia. Ms Batty pieced herself together with courage after the unthinkable loss of her 11-yearold son Luke, who was murdered at cricket practice by his father in Tyabb 2014. She established the Luke Batty Foundation in 2014 to help women and children affected by family violence (FV). A Chisholm past student, Ms Batty was invited as a guest speaker on 20 October. “It’s been almost nine years since Luke was murdered, without having a plan or any idea of what was ahead of me,” Ms Batty said. Ms Batty spoke of the change in public attitudes and behaviours since then. She talked about Australia’s recognition and understanding of family violence to be a significant social issue. “Looking back in the nine years I’ve been advocating, we certainly are having discussions about family violence, we certainly are aware of its presence,” Ms Batty said. In the past, many of the institutes provided family violence as an elective, not a core, subject. “I did a Diploma at Chisholm 13 years ago and I was appalled at the time when I did my family violence elective. “I thought, how can anybody working in the welfare community services space, not recognise this (family violence) as an essential component of your study, not an elective,” Ms Batty said. Later, Chisholm became the first institute to establish a new course, Graduate Certificate in Family Violence Work in 2015. Chilsholm deputy dean Dr Ilsa Evans coordinated the Graduate Certificate in Family Violence.
Chisholm deputy dean, Dr Ilsa Evans and Rosie Batty spoke about the advent of specialist training for family violence. Picture: SUPPLIED Dr Evans explained to the lunch gathering how the course came into being. “It was a result of a push from industry advisory committees. It was a result of advocacy from industry. The industry looked into it and did a scope to see what was required whether there was a demand.” In 2016, a Royal Commission passed down recommendations into family violence and at that time Dr Evans and the team were to redevelop the course. That’s when she reached out to Ms Batty. “When we got together to discuss this course, I was incredibly passionate because it was in those early stages of recognition,”
Ms Batty said. Australia has now become the third country to appoint its first Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Commissioner. In Australia, it’s Micaela Cronin. Appointed by the current Federal Government, Ms Cronin has a background as a social worker and was previously the president of the Australian Council of Social Service. “It’s fantastic to see the focus on family violence and a genuine response. It’s been wonderful in Victoria to see the support given to the family violence sector in the reform by the State Government,” Dr Evans said. One in six women experienced physical
or sexual violence and one woman a week is killed by her former or current partner, according to Australian Bureau of Statistics in a 2016 Personal Safety Survey. Coercive control is also being recognised as a dangerous form of domestic violence. It has become a significant part of conversations around family violence. Two million adult women (23 per cent) in Australia have experienced emotional abuse also known as coercive control. The nation reeled from the deaths of Brisbane women, Hannah Clarke and her three children and Sydney women Preethi Reddy, both killed by their controlling partners. After two years of research and inquiry, New South Wales parliament is set to outlaw coercive control with a maximum sentence of seven years in jail. If passed, The Crimes Legislation Amendment (Coercive Control) Bill 2022 will make NSW the first Australian state or territory to have a dedicated stand-alone offence of coercive control. The Bill also seeks to make the offence known as ‘Preethi’s Law’, in memory of Ms Reddy who was killed after ending her relationship with her former partner. Nithya Reddy said her sister would still be alive if coercive control had been criminalised before her murder in March 2019, The Guardian reported. “My beloved sister, Dr Preethi Reddy, was killed by a former intimate partner who had been non-physically abusive throughout the relationship,” she said. “She did not recognise the danger of this course of conduct as her killer’s first act of physical violence was to take her life.” Support is available. Contact 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) or Safe Steps on 1800 015 188.
Drainage suitability questioned following flooding By Eleanor Wilson The efficacy of several drainage systems in the City of Casey has been questioned by locals after significant rainfall caused major road closures across the municipality. Heavy rainfall throughout October saw Grices Road in Berwick and Hallam South Road, near Hallam Station logged extensively by floodwaters, causing lengthy road closures on several occasions. Westbound lanes on Grices Road near Viewgrand Drive were closed due to flooding throughout periods of peak rainfall in October and early November. It comes just months after the same westbound lanes were upgraded as part of duplication project. City of Casey city design and construction manager Trevor Griffin said the flooding on Grices Road was caused by high water levels in the Melbourne Water creek, as well as a temporary causeway about 100 metres downstream of Grices Road, which is part of a South East Water sewer renewal project. “The heavy and ongoing rainfall has resulted in the causeway creating a small dam, which is restricting water flow within the creek and raising water levels above what is expected,” Mr Griffin said. “We have been liaising with Melbourne Water and South East Water and they have confirmed they will be removing the causeway this Wednesday 9 November.” The drainage system on Grices Road normally discharges water into the Melbourne Water creek, adjacent to the Bridges East of Clyde Road over the wetland reserve, and is designed for the area’s predicted rainfall, including potential flooding events, Mr Griffin said. However, he said the record rainfalls throughout October has saturated the ground which is preventing water from Grices Road discharging into an already full creek. “Council is currently investigating options to use adjacent vacant public land as a basin with holding ponds to redirect some water 12 STAR NEWS
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Floodwaters on Grices Road had cleared by Friday 4 November. 306586
Traffic getting through one lane at a time on Hallam South Road on Friday 4 November. 306623 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS off Grices Road during times of flood,” Mr Griffin said. “Detailed designs will be undertaken and further discussions with the adjacent land
Thursday, 10 November, 2022
owners will be held.” Meanwhile, in the last month, Hallam South Road was closed for a total of six days between 29 and 31 October, and 3 and 5 No-
vember due to high rainfall and flooding over the road. A Department of Transport spokesperson said the Hallam South Road drainage system was found to be adequate. “Above average rainfall has caused hundreds of roads to close across the state, including roads with no recent history of recurrent flooding like Hallam South Road,” the spokesperson said. “Crews continuously monitor the road network and on both occasions where Hallam South Road was closed, flood water subsided within days. “After high rainfall our crews work to clear debris from roads, carry out safety inspections and reopen them as quickly as possible.” Members of the community who come across flooded or damaged roads are encouraged to report them by calling VicRoads on 13 11 70. According to SES Victoria’s City of Casey Flood Guide from August 2020, about 14 per cent of the City of Casey is at risk of flooding from rivers and creeks overflowing. Majority of the municipality is also at risk of flash flooding, according to the report. berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
FOCUS ON … REMEMBRANCE DAY
Provenance pays tribute By Marcus Uhe The Provenance Artists group in Casey has prepared a series of artworks to honour the contributions of those involved in the war in Afghanistan. The breathtaking pieces depict both Australian soldiers, and Afghan refugees who have migrated to Australia, set in stunning backdrops showcasing the landscape of Afghanistan. Rather than depicting the brutality, conflict and hardships of war, the images endeavour to show the humanitarian side of those who were there at the time, such as engaging with locals in the villages, or beautiful portraits of veterans displaying their service medals. Calvin Bell from Provenance said it was important to highlight the positive contributions that soldiers made. It’s the fourth time the group has undertaken a similar project, having produced some moving pieces reflecting on Vietnam veterans, which were donated to the National Vietnam Veterans Museum on Phillip Island, in 2021. “I believe that the press have been negative,” Mr Bell said. “They only report when a solider has done the wrong thing and made a mistake. We’ve done the opposite. “We’ve painted 20 paintings of them looking after the villages, helping them and doing all sorts of things and we’re honouring the soldiers.” He said the project was well-received by veterans and those who participated. “The soldiers that have been here have just been so emotional that we’re doing this. Instead of giving them a grump in the newspaper about what they’ve done wrong, they’re just so excited.”
Calvin Bell (left) with Deborah Polman and her painting of Chris May. 306546 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS One such veteran who played a key role in the project was Chris May, born and raised in Berwick, who served two terms in Afghanistan in 2009 and 2011. Mr May provided photographs that served as the backdrop for many of the images, taken during his tours of duty, and also sat for a portrait. He said he appreciated the recognition and the sentiment from Mr Bell and the artists. “It’s nice that there are people there who want to change public perception around the war in Afghanistan,” Mr May said. “Up to and including recent evacuation efforts, there was still Australian boots on the ground and our contribution was also about mentoring and the evacuation of refugees and people affected by the war. “People forget that one of the key tenants of being an Aussie soldier is that we’re compassionate. If you’re going to step foot in someone else’s country, you have to respect customs and traditions and show respect. “I definitely engaged with more of the community in speech, such as interactions with kids, than I did with the Taliban. We weren’t
actively seeking combat, we were providing security for locals.” He said he had never sat for a portrait before, but enjoyed the experience as the artists got to know their backstory and attempted to embed it in their artwork. “There’s some really great paintings they’ve done where artists can capture someone’s memories,” Mr May said. “I have seen some of the artwork and I thought it was amazing how they’ve done it. I’ve seen the Vietnam ones in Phillip Island but I think with Afghanistan being more recent, they’ve captured both Afghans and Veterans really well with the beautiful unique landscape of Afghanistan in the background.” Deborah Polman was tasked with the big responsibility of depicting Mr May, and said she had really enjoyed the opportunity. “It was interesting meeting Chris and finding out what his experiences were like in Afghanistan,” Ms Polman said. “I like doing all the details in the paintings, so I thought it was wonderful.” Not to be forgotten were the contributions of Afghans who assisted the armed forces during their tours. Bassir Qadiri, founder and chief executive of the Bahktar Community Organisation, worked in a restaurant that catered for soldiers in 2004 and 2005, and providing interpretative services, before moving overseas to pursue work and study opportunities. “The soldiers, they did a great job to provide support to Afghan people who were experiencing war and violence,” Mr Qadiri said. “They put their life at risk to support people.” Mr Bell tasked him with finding some fellow Afghans in Melbourne who were involved with the war in similar roles to him.
Remembrance Day services in the local area There will be a number of Remembrance Day events held across the City of Casey on Friday 11 November for residents to pay their respects to those who have served in the Armed Forces for our country. Berwick: 10:30am at the Berwick Cenotaph on High Street, Berwick. Cranbourne: 11am at the Cranbourne War Memorial in Greg Clydesdale Square on High Street, Cranbourne. Pearcedale: 10am at the Pearcedale Public Hall, 45 Pearcedale Road, Pearcedale. Hampton Park: 10.30am at Arthur Wren Hall, 16-20 Stuart Avenue, Hampton Park.
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He said it was an opportunity he relished being involved in. “When [Calvin] told me about the idea of the Afghans who contributed, I thought it was amazing,” Mr Qadiri said. “I said to him that I wanted to be part of it. “The paintings are amazing. (Photos of) most of them have been sent to me but they’re amazing. “I’m very positive that this will make a huge impact on the community and everyone will love it.” Mr Qadiri’s portrait features him in a striking blue and green jacket, with the City of Kabul over his right shoulder and his late Father over his left. “I was asked to consider the most important person in my life that has been a mentor to me,” he said. “It’s important to know your history and how you become the person you are today.” When all the pieces are framed and complete, expected to be by Remembrance Day, they will be proudly displayed an exhibition at a currently undetermined venue. Ahead of Remembrance Day, Mr May reflected on what 11 November means to him and the veteran community. “For veterans who have served, the day is to reflect on contributions of themselves, their mates and those who came before us,” Mr May said. “It’s a day to pause for a minute and just remember all those that have gone before us in war to remember what we have today. The ability to pick your school, your job, your destiny. “Where we are today and the society we live in today would not be what it is without those men and women. For veterans, you’re part of that story.”
Berwick RSL Inc.
Service for Remembrance Day will be held at the memorial site High Street Berwick. Assembly time: 10.30am for a 10.45am start on the 11th November. On behalf of the Berwick RSL Sub-branch, specifically our veteran community I would like to thank you the people of Berwick and surrounds for your very generous donations and support as part of our Poppy and ANZAC Appeals, all money raised from these appeals goes directly into supporting the veteran community of Berwick.
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High hopes for Sesh By Hugh Pearson Local man Sesh Vijalaputa Subramanya competed in the local area toastmaster competition on Tuesday 8 November. Mr Vijalaputa Subramanya has participated as a toastmaster for the local Berwick group for over a year and has ambitions to compete internationally at the highest level. “It would be a journey and I hope I can make it to the international level this year, otherwise it might take me two or three more years,” Mr Vijalaputa Subramanya said. There were no nerves for Mr Vijalaputa Subramanya at the event as he said he’s been giving speeches all his life. However, he was excited to take the step into competitive public speaking. “I’m excited and not nervous at all,” Mr Vijalaputa Subramanya said before the event. “The reason being is I’ve been giving speeches all my life so if there’s one thing I’m very good at, it is facilitation and public speaking. “I’m very cautious that I shouldn’t be over confident and muck it up,” Mr Vijalaputa Subramanya said. “My goal is to take one step at a time and get through the local area and get to the district competition. “From there, there is a state level and a national level competition.” An eagerness to speak publicly is what drew him to the Berwick Toastmasters Club. Mr Vijalaputa Subramanya said he would’ve joined the club much earlier had he known about them. “I found them a couple years back when I figured out they run competitions,” Mr Vijalaputa Subramanya said. “Til then, I didn’t know whether there was a forum for public speakers who encourage public speaking so I joined them and did my level one and two courses which are requirements to be in the competition.” Mr Vijalaputa Subramanya’s speech, titled ‘Heartbeats’, takes the audience through his journey of parenthood and lessons he’s learnt throughout his lifetime. He said the best lesson he has to share is “quitting is the only failure, the rest is only learning”. “That’s what I learnt from my Mum and that helped me sail through several tough points,” Mr Vijalaputa Subramanya said.
The house is located at Smiths Lane in Clyde North. 306466
Mirvac’s Transformation House charity home, set to be auctioned to raise money for the Red Pictures: SUPPLIED Shield Appeal. 306466
Dan Reilly of The Block and Dani Wales from Healthy Homes Australia. 306466
Auction for charity Property developer Mirvac has completed construction of its highly-anticipated Transformation House charity home at its Smiths Lane community in Clyde North. The architecturally designed home will be auctioned on Saturday 12 November at 11am to raise much-needed funds for The Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal. Mirvac is hoping the home will secure a sale price of more than $1 million to raise as much money as possible for The Salvation Army come auction day. With a $500,000 fundraising target for the Red Shield Appeal, the funds could allow The Salvation Army to provide 2564 days of safe emergency accommodation for those in need, helping to transform the lives of thousands of people across Australia. Designed by the Mirvac Design team with growing families in mind, the two-storey four-bedroom home will be move-in ready, with furniture and other high-quality furnishings selected and styled by Dani Wales from Healthy Homes Australia, Dan Reilly of The Block and their team at Manna Made. Salvation Army Australia (Major) Corps Officer, Michael Wright, said the contribution will play a significant role in helping the Salvation Army provide housing, food, financial aid and other assistance to those who are homeless or living in poverty. “Now, more than ever, so many Australians are under housing stress and in need of our support,” he said. “Homelessness is a crucial issue that impacted over 278,300 Australians in 2020-21 –
the sale of the Transformation House will raise much-needed funds to help us continue to provide crisis, transitional and long-term accommodation, refuges for women and their children, rooming houses and community housing. “Together, Mirvac, and the new homeowners, are playing a hugely important role in helping us support those in need.” Mirvac Head of Residential, Stuart Penklis, said he is confident the sale will help the company generate much-needed funds for the Red Shield Appeal. “Mirvac has been reimagining urban life for 50 years and the future-ready Transformation House demonstrates our ongoing commitment to creating sustainable communities, from an environmental, economic and social perspective,” Mr Penklis said. “It has been truly wonderful to see our community come together to help raise vital funds to ensure The Salvation Army can continue to create a better future for those impacted by homelessness.” Twenty-five Mirvac partners generously rallied together to help make the project possible by donating or reducing the cost of materials, products and trades, including Australbricks, Colorbond, Dowell, Hebel, Heidelberg Lintels, Unitex and Superior Heating and Cooling. The home is on a 392-square-metre block and has been designed to minimise energy consumption and maximise liveability for its future residents. The 321-square-metre home features open
plan and flexible living spaces, a double garage, premium Smeg appliances, solar panels, built in walk-in wardrobes, a family bathroom and two ensuites, and an alfresco resort-style backyard with timber decking and Plungie Studio pool. Dani Wales from Healthy Homes Australia said they were really proud to be involved in the styling of the home. “We wanted to provide a really good foundation for the lucky future home owners, so that they can move in and put their own stamp and personality on the space,” Ms Wales said. “With heaps of space and natural light that make it perfect for entertaining friends, we’re excited to see as many people as possible on auction day to support The Salvation Army Australia.” Transformation House is located walking distance from Clyde Grammar and Banjo Park, as well as the soon to be opened Smiths Lane Hub which is home to a community space, social enterprise cafe and Experience Centre. Transformation House will be open for inspection every Wednesday and Saturday in the lead up to the auction. Prospective bidders can register their interest to inspect the stunning home and be part of a truly life-changing legacy. For more information or to register your interest to inspect Transformation House, visit transformationhouse.mirvac.com For more information on The Salvation Army Australia’s Red Shield Appeal, please visit salvationarmy.org.au/red-shield-appeal
BUSINESS PROFILE
World Superbikes are back to conclude 2022 season The MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship, Grand Ridge Brewery Australian Round returns to Phillip Island this 18 to 20 November to conclude a memorable and classic 2022 season. In a season that has been dramatic and thrilling as ever, with non-stop head-to-head battles all season, our spectators are in for a treat to soak up the adrenaline from the picturesque Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit this November. While the racing will be fierce, there will also be plenty of chances to enjoy activities in the paddock as well as the surrounding areas. All three-day general admission ticket holders receive unrivalled access to the WorldSBK Paddock, giving you unrivalled access all weekend! Get yourself a front row seat to The Paddock Show, giving you hours of non-stop entertainment in the heart of the pits that also includes commentary from the on-track action, giving you a unique perspective of watching the races, as well as chat shows, autograph sessions 14 STAR NEWS
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and interviews from WorldSBK and WorldSSP stars. But the action doesn’t stop there, with the inclusion of our National Category of Superbike, Supersport, and Supersport 300 taking part in Round 6 of the ASBK - Australian Superbike Championship. VIP Hospitality tickets are still available to enjoy the Season Finale in style and comfort, or be a part of our all new Holeshot Bar experience. There will also be a WorldSBK Expo alongside the Gardner Straight to showcase manufacturers and suppliers including the latest news and releases. Exclusively for use by people attending the circuit, you can also enjoy the Phillip Island Go Karts where you can book your session at the Visitor Centre, with loads of prizes and giveaways happening every day. Get your tickets now at www.worldsbk.com. au <http://www.worldsbk.com.au> !
Thursday, 10 November, 2022
Soak up the adrenaline from the picturesque Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit. berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
Immersive art exhibition An immersive, site-specific installation full of textures, colours and playful forms has been unveiled at the Old Cheese Factory. Sydney-based visual artist Rosie Deacon is undertaking a three-month residency for Bunjil Place Gallery and is presenting her major exhibition Spaghetti Stack from 5 November to 26 February next year. Deacon is known for her exuberant, wonder-filled sculptural installations that often incorporate performance elements to encourage exhibition visitors to explore, interact and step outside their daily reality. Her work engages with the spectacle of obsession and hyper colour absurd animal scenes. Ms Deacon said the process of handmaking, community and coming together, and ‘70s through ‘90s nostalgia are elements central to her work. “My work resembles large-scale, fictional geographies, inhabited solely by handmade sculptures, exploring states of humanity, feelings of belonging and realms of the absurd,” Deacon said. As part of the project, the artist has been working collaboratively with the local community to make components for this work. This includes more than 100 joey sculptures created by students from Gwendoline Kindergarten in Berwick. Materials gathered from op shops and art disposal centres, including gifted items and materials that have served their purpose, are given a new life in her artwork. Through her work, Deacon draws upon her memories of the familiarity of handcrafted textiles, including knitted, crocheted, and woven materials that abound into an excessive and wondrous environment within the gallery. The exhibition at Bunjil Place will feature Deacon’s larger than life parrot earrings that were inspired by artist Ken Done’s anniversary
An eclectic koala sculpture is featured in the exhibition. designs for Arnott’s biscuit tins. Part of the exhibition shown on the outdoor plaza screen is a new interactive animation inspired by Deacon’s intrigue with 1980s YouTube aerobics championships and morning television show, Aerobics Oz Style. This interactive work is currently being developed by Deacon in collaboration with Melbourne digital artist Simon Burgin. Deacon holds a number of accolades for her art, has featured in both local and international solo exhibitions and has been included in group shows across Sydney, Fremantle, Grafton, Newcastle, Bathurst, Brisbane, Townsville, Launceston and Sheffield, UK. In 2022, Deacon was commissioned to create a new piece, ‘House Warming’, to open The Centre for Creativity at Sydney Opera House. Deacon’s work is held in collections including Artbank, Campbelltown Arts Centre and Wollongong City Art Gallery.
Peter Rabbit
Rosie Deacon is a Sydney-based artist known for her colourful, larger than life sculptural installations. Pictures: SUPPLIED
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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
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.
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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.”
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Almost one year since alleged corruption was exposed within the City of Casey, a former councillor is still fighting to clear his name.
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Weathering the Covid storm TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS IAN ASH The City of Casey will be holding its 2022 Business Awards evening this week, acknowledging and celebrating local business success in employment, innovation, sustainability and leadership. Over the past few months, I was privileged to be one of a team of talented Business Award judges responsible for analysing some of the submissions and determining category and overall award winners. It is a role that I very much enjoy since it gives me an opportunity to see first-hand how local businesses have dealt with a range of issues and the successes that they have enjoyed. This year’s awards were particularly noteworthy since much of the last 18 months saw businesses facing many substantial challenges brought about by the pandemic and included issues such as reduced revenues, keeping customers and staff safe and trying to preserve staff jobs in the face of reduced incomes and increasing costs. The solutions to these challenges, although innovative and varied, nonetheless nearly always added significant cost to the business itself but what was particularly inspiring was that I did not hear one business leader whinge about the difficulties they had been through, and no one appeared to regret the sacrifices that had been made. I also found it fascinating to see what businesses had learnt about themselves as a result of the experience.
Companies that survived Covid - and were successful - displayed two primary qualities, namely resilience and determination, but why are these so important to weathering the storm? Picture: SUPPLIED There is much that can be written about why these businesses succeeded in their own way, but if I were to sum it up, I would say those companies that survived and were successful displayed two primary qualities, namely resilience and determination. However, thinking about this still further, it is clear these two qualities typically underpin
great companies anyway, so why are these so important to weathering the storm? What do we mean by resilience? The Oxford Dictionary attributes two meanings to this word: 1. The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness and 2. The ability of a substance or object to spring
back into shape; elasticity. These two definitions fit well with the nature of successful businesses. Great businesses know things will get difficult from time to time and prepare for this by looking ahead and preparing the organisations by defining clear purpose, establishing a supportive culture and developing systems and processes that will enable them to cope. Being open and honest with staff about the problems the business encounters typically elicits support and loyalty from the employees who have a better context for the business decisions being made and may well also see themselves as part of the solution. Similarly, while good business leaders know that clarity of purpose and direction is important, they also understand it is essential for a business to be able to flex its way of operating according to the issues it faces since there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to business problems. There is a delicate balance to be struck here since flexibility in approach is quite different to changing path completely. Those businesses that chase the latest fad or continually change the goalposts when the going gets tough are destined to continually play catch-up. Sticking with the chosen overall direction and being able to flex in response to varying conditions requires resilience and determination but a better and more sustainable result is typically derived. The analogy I think of here is that of ancient seafarers sailing back home across rough seas. There would have been plenty of high tides and rough winds trying to push them offtrack, but with proper preparation and planning, resilience and determination would have brought them safely home. Ian Ash is the managing director of OrgMent Business Solutions.
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WHAT’S ON Tooradin Craft Bazaar Amazing array of donated crafts and gifts are arriving daily and a huge display of wonderful items, all donated, will fill the stalls for sale at bargain prices as usual. There will be a designated food and refreshment area, including a marquee with seating for our shoppers. This day will offer a unique and wonderful shopping experience for all! We look forward to sharing a great day with the community and shoppers seeking terrific Christmas gifts, cakes and puddings. Don’t miss this event! Saturday 19 November 9am - 3pm at the Tooradin Public Hall, Station Street, Tooradin.
Warneet-Blind Bight CFA’s Community Garage Sale is on again. Maps with the garage sale addresses will be available for a gold coin donation at the entrance to Blind Bight or at the Warneet Blind Bight Fire Station on Rutherford Parade. There will be a coffee and food from 8.30am to 2pm at the Blind Bight Community Centre car park and a sausage sizzle at the Warneet fire station. For enquiries or to book your garage sale, contact Patricia on 0474 453 260. Saturday, 12 November, from 8am.
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Multicultural Senior Citizens Groups Are you a senior citizen from a Greek, Italian or Hungarian background? Would you like to meet, socialise and talk with other seniors from your background? Would you like to make new friends? At the John Pandazopoulos Public Hall at 76 Power Road, Doveton, the Berwick and District Greek Club meets on Mondays from 10am. To find out more, call John on 0413 411 220. The Italian Corona Seniors Club meets at the same address on Tuesdays from 10am. For more information, call Francesca on 0411 295 792. The Hungarian Seniors Seniors Group meets at the same address, on Wednesdays from 10am. To find out more, call Julius on 9544 9094. These Seniors Groups and others at the hall will have been meeting in harmony together for the last 25 years next year.
Bahktar Community Organisation Distribution Centre grand opening Bakhtar Community Organisation is excited to announce the opening of our second distribution centre in the City of Casey, in Hallam. We are inviting you and your family to join us for a barbecue lunch to celebrate our grand opening on Sunday 20 November. It is a free, family-friendly event with a wide range of activities for children. Please be advised that Monash Health vaccination bus will also be present. Sunday 20 November 12pm to 3pm at 23 –
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Voices of Casey will be presenting an innovative song suite based on the theme of Spirit of the Season on 19 November at 2.30pm at Fiddlers Green, 57 Gloucester Ave, Berwick. Tickets are $20 for adults, or $15 for students and pensioners. There will be a lucky door prize, raffles and afternoon tea will be served FOC after the concert. Book your tickets at trybooking.com/CCLQ, phone 0457 575 535 or buy your tickets at the door on the day. Don’t miss this fabulous performance.
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Montague Spring Festival 2022
· 47 Gunns Road, Hallam.
Cranbourne Senior Citizens Club
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Line Dancing - Monday 9.30am - noon. New Vogue and Old Time Dance - Tuesday 1pm - 3.30pm and second Sunday of each month 1pm - 5pm. Carpet Bowls - Saturday and Wednesday 12.30pm - 3.30pm. Bingo - Thursdays 11am - 2pm. Community Day - First Friday of the month 11am - 2.30pm. Cranbourne Senior Citizens Club, 1 Codrington Street, Cranbourne. For more information, call 0432 107 590.
A great way to end the weekend. Sundays from 2pm at The Amstel Club, 1000 Cranbourne-Frankston Road, Cranbourne.
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Timbarra Over 50s Social Club dancing A beginner’s class for those wishing to learn Old Time/New Vogue dancing will start on Friday 20 January 2023 at 7.30pm in the Multipurpose Room of the Timbarra Community Centre, Timbarra Way, Berwick. This would enable you to join our regular dance night held each Thursday evening in the Timbarra Community Hall. To enrol for the class or find out more, call Bruce on 0447 554 475.
Sunday Sessions
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Join us for Sunday sessions each Sunday at The Amstel Club, Cranbourne. Join us on our outdoor green beer garden, sip away on your favourites and listen to great acts week in and week out. Best of all it’s free - get down to the club early to grab your spot!
Retirees, come and see what U3A Casey is all about - displays, demos and performances! Afternoon tea provided. Where: Fiddler’s Green Retirement Village, 57 Gloucester Avenue, Berwick. When: Sunday 20 November 2pm to 4pm.
U3A Casey Showcase 2022
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Enquiries: 0421 705 726.
Voices of Casey - Spirit of the Season song suite
Garage sales galore
To celebrate spring and the beginning of summer stone fruit season, Montague will be hosting a Spring Festival at The Orchard at Montague. The festival will include a farmer’s market with live music, food trucks, fruit tastings, kids activities, gardening master class, facility tours and much more! Farmers market 8.30am-2pm. Live music - 1pm-4pm. Saturday 12 November, 18 Horswood Rd, Narre Warren North. Entry to the festival will be free. Register your interest at bit.ly/3FRqvDr
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Australian Parents for Climate Action Play Fest Local Casey/Cardinia parents are holding a Play Fest family meet-up on Sunday 13 November, hoping to bring local families together to show that the community wants urgent action on climate change. Date: 10.30am Sunday 13 November. Location: Deep Creek Eco Playspace, 62 Cameron Way, Pakenham. For further information, contact Christine Micah on 0422 625 994.
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Night Rides Festival The 2022 Night Rides Festival is coming to Akoonah Park Berwick this weekend. Bring the family along to see some of the best rides in town, grab some quality grub at one of 20-plus food trucks, have a cheeky drink at one of the open-air bars whilst enjoying live music, vendors, kids attractions and more! Entry only $5 at the gate! Saturday 12 November 4pm to 10pm.
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MANYwww.m
anningsfuner als.com
.au
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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
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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
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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
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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
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Thursday, 10 November, 2022
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MEB & SON CONCRETING
Steve on 0407 704 213 • Service and repairs to ducted heaters and evaporative coolers • Gas ducted heating changeover units • Carbon Monoxide testing • Installations & supply of split system heating & cooling • Service, repairs and replacement of hot water services
Weed Spraying Rubbish Removal
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NEED A LOCAL HEATING AND HOT WATER REPAIRER? BRIVIS / VULCAN / BONAIRE / BRAEMAR Specialising in air conditioning and heating
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V Pets & Services
ADVERTISERS, in this section are qualified practitioners and offer nonsexual services.
Pruning Removal Stump Grinding
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General Notices
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V Pets & Services ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE
V Public Notices and Event
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
Public Notice
The application is for a permit to:
29 Huxley Crescent ENDEAVOUR HILLS VIC 3802 Lot 3716 LP 201325R Removal of Restrictive Covenant N466529C from Lot 3716 on LP201325R
The applicant for the permit is:
M Dragic C/- Noh Legal Pty Ltd
The application reference number is:
PA22-0398 - (Klare Zhang)
You may look at the application and any documents that support the application at the office of the Responsible Authority.
Trades & Services section of Network Classifieds.
V Positions Vacant
GENERAL MAINTENANCE POSITION VACANT The individual will need to be reliable, insured and police-checked. It will start with 2/3 days per week and hours to be determined. What we are looking for: • Handyman / Handylady • Lawn and Garden • Painting • Plumbing • Electrical • Concreting
• Carpentry • Gutter Clean • Rubbish Removal • Sweeping • Weeding And much more
please send through a cover letter and your resume to recruitment@berwickmotorgroup.com.au
V Positions Vacant
Executive Officer
SKILLS/CAPABILITIES
An exciting opportunity exists to join Australia’s leading regional news media industry organisation and sales representation body as its Executive Officer.
• Experience in the use of electronic information systems such as database management and computer applications. Intermediate to advanced Microsoft Office skills (Word, Excel).
About Us
12576294-HC45-22
An objection must: • be made to the Responsible Authority in writing to, Manager Planning, P.O. Box 1000, Narre Warren 3805 or emailed to caseycc@casey.vic.gov.au • include the application number and site address • include the reasons for the objection, and • state how the objector would be affected.
The Victorian Country Press Association (VCPA) has been rapidly growing and evolving with the renaissance of independently owned local news media businesses across the country. VCPA is an industry member owned organisation representing regional and local news media across Victoria. The Association provides a range of services to members including industrial relations advice and information, advocating and representation activities, annual awards and conference, training and information, industry updates, networking and sales representation through a whollyowned business trading arm – Regional Media Connect.
The Responsible Authority must make a copy of every objection available at its office for any person to inspect during office hours free of charge until the end of the period during which an application may be made for review of a decision on the application.
28 November 2022
If you object, the Responsible Authority will advise you of its decision.
The agreed purpose of the role is to plan, develop, implement and manage strategies to progress and grow the Victorian Country Press Association.
General Classifieds
About the Position
V Adult Services
Phone
0439 263 764 (Out calls only)
12561969-JC32-22
Rainbow Club $110/ 30mins Open 7 days
• Proven ability to anticipate, identify, and mitigate potential barriers, challenges, or risks to achieving outcomes through use of strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
NEW STAFF? Fill your position online www.networkclassifieds.com.au
Motoring V Boats & Marine
• Able to travel both inter/intra-state as required.
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE • Previous experience working in media or with an industry organisation at a senior level. • Previous extensive experience with management and leadership of staff at a senior level.
The EO is appointed by and reports to the Board through the Remuneration and Appointments Sub-Committee.
• A demonstrated commitment to ethical practices.
The successful candidate will provide effective stakeholder engagement through representing VCPA and CPA, increasing its profile and engaging with members.
• Strategic leadership ability.
QUICK CAT II (Dolphin) wooden 16' catamaran with registered galvanised trailer for best offer to $2,395. Boat is ready to sail and fair condition, including the rigging. Trailer is 15 years old. Has 13" wheels with 4 ply radial tyres. Not been in water. Private seller, lost strength due to covid19, and nearly 80. Contact David Bucknell on 0407 046 877. Pickup from Narre Warren South.
• Relevant tertiary qualification is desirable but not essential. • Experience in reporting to a Board of Directors.
REMUNERATION Remuneration will be negotiated based on the skills and experience of the successful applicant.
To apply: Please submit your resume, including letter of application to:
RASC Chair Victorian Country Press Association Ltd Via email: paul.thomas@starnewsgroup.com.au
V Garden/ Outdoor 12576935-MS45-22
Buy & Sell in the
General Classifieds section of Network Classifieds.
V Motor Vehicles
• Utilise collaborative ways of working that are inclusive, builds cooperation, and encourages information sharing.
This position requires advocacy around systems, policy and legislation development, improvement, and reform.
BERWICK 19 Fernwren Drive, Sat. 12th and Sun. 13th of Nov., 8am-4pm. Variety of items. Cheap.
O'BRIEN Gardening & Handyman Services. Gardening, lawn mowing and house repairs. Phone 0402 249 849
• Organised and able to meet deadlines.
• In-depth understanding of accounting principles including budgeting, balance sheets, income statements, cash flow, and capital planning management.
The EO is tasked with engaging, negotiating and advocating with key internal and external/industry stakeholders, establishing partnerships, growing the revenue base and to provide for the financial sustainability of the organisation.
V Garage Sales
SN1090434-PJ37-13
• Excellent verbal and written communication.
The Executive Officer (EO) is responsible for leading the day-to-day management of the Victorian Country Press Association and Country Press Australia (CPA). In this position you will work closely with the board to implement the Association’s strategic priorities.
The EO is responsible for the overall management of the activities and services of VCPA along with providing leadership to a small team.
48 Davies Avenue, Sunshine North 9364 0770 SWA6566B
9775 0201
NEED
https://www.casey.vic.gov.au/ view-planning-applications
Mature and Slim Country Lady. Like some intimacy/company?
Call today
12523621-JW48-21
Documents can also be viewed on Council’s website:
ESCORT LINDA
We require white late model: 1 & 2T Vans & Trays 4T - 12T Trays / Tauts Minimum guarantees Work in all areas No experience required Full training Early starts
If you tick all the boxes and are keen to be part of a fantastic team and work environment,
This can be done during office hours and is free of charge.
V Adult Services
OWNER DRIVERS Looking for a new start or Career?
You will be working between Berwick Nissan & Berwick Kia 6-10 Kangan Drive, Berwick, 3086.
City of Casey Bunjil Place 2 Patrick Northeast Drive NARRE WARREN
The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before:
Food & Beverage Breakfast Team We are seeking Food and Beverage Superstar available for Early Morning Breakfast Shifts 5:30am – 10am. If you are an early riser, a ‘people person’ and want to be the face of our morning crew, you are the perfect fit! Casual positions available. Please apply to General Manager, Julie Dale (03) 9771 6000
BMG is seeking a Handy/ General Maintenance Person with “good old-fashioned values”.
Employment
Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the Responsible Authority.
12570284-AI39-22
Find it in the
V Positions Vacant
12565959-HC35-22
The land affected by the application is located at:
Chichis are Chihuahua x Chinese Crested. Not suitable for children. Ideal indoor, low allergy, small dog. One very smoochy female and one very outgoing funny male. M/C 95301010426998 and 95301010405788. Phone 0455 355 885 for further information. Source: EE108259
12423634-SN31-19
NOTICE OF AN APPLICATION FOR A PLANNING PERMIT
Unique Hairless Puppies
Employment
12575857-KJ44-22
General Classifieds
12575465-JW46-22
Trades & Services
Real Estate
section of Network Classifieds.
Motoring section of Network Classifieds.
HOLDEN COMMODORE Sports SV6 VE Series 2 SIDI 2010/11, 6 speed sports auto, Built to last. This vehicle is in top condition, runs smooth, clean and quiet built with the LLT engine of the highest quality and top of the range motors that Holden produced. This high performance model is claimed to be a credit to Holden and built to last. Was designed and built for safer driving, Received the international award of the highest stand for safety performance (5 STAR ANCAP) RACV Road Tested, RACV Workshop Tested, RACV Mechanical Tested, Compression Engine Tested, Exhaust and Emission Control Tested, Full Brake Performance Tested, Power Steering Tested, Radiator Tested, Wheel Rim Tested, Body Chassis Tested, All Safety Components are not worn or deteriorated, Passed. New Timing Chains, New Tyres, New Brakes, New Head Lights, New Plugs, Oil Change Serviced, Tune-up Serviced, Nothing to fix or service, Full RWC 12 Months REGO TOP Condition. $17,000. Clear Title PSSR, Rego 1VQ 6ST. Phone 0407 122 777, Location Pakenham.
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The 16-year-old whiz kid bounds through the crease for Melbourne.
Pictures: CM THOMAS PHOTOGRAPHY
Hasrat Gill.
Mastering the art of spin By Tyler Lewis While many were occupied with Tik Tok, baking and arts and crafts in Melbourne’s 2020 lockdown, Hasrat Gill was honing in on a craft of her own – the art of leg-spin bowling. On the front foot-path of her Clyde home, Gill mapped out the dimensions of a cricket pitch with the sole intention of developing her off-spin. Little did the Endeavour Hills junior know that those neatly placed cones would be the first step in a swift rise through the Victorian cricket ranks. “It just happened during lockdown in 2020 I guess, I came across bowling a variation of my off-spin, I wanted something unique,” she recalled. “I tried a leggie and it just felt so much more natural to me and it came along, the initial thought was to have it as a variation. “But it got to the point where if I was going to bowl offies and leggies, I could only be half as good at both or be really good at one. “I ultimately decided to bowl leggies because it came more naturally to me. “There was nothing to do in lockdown, so it was all I was doing.” In the season after her adjustment, the then
14-year-old claimed 21 wickets at an average of just 12 for Melbourne’s Second XI. The summer that followed – 2021/22 – was then the perfect summer for Gill, as she burst into Melbourne’s First XI, topped the competition for wickets (26 wickets at 11.92) and also jagged a hat-trick. By claiming wickets in 13 of her 14 appearances for the eventual premiership side, the thorough 16-year-old earned call ups to Victorian and Melbourne Star squads to rub shoulders with cricketers she grew up idolising. “It can be quite surreal, I remember I got called up to have a bowl to the Vic girls and I was bowling to Ellyse Perry… she has been my idol since I was 11 or 12,” she said. “It can be a bit of a pinch-yourself moment and with the Stars right now, we’ve got the likes of Jemimah Rodrigues, Lauren Winfield-Hill and Annabel Sutherland, they’re all brilliant. “It is pretty surreal, but when I am around them I try to learn, absorb and get the most of every situation and opportunity I get. “I am asking them questions, talking to them about their game and how they went about their cricket at my age, what they’ve done to get to the top level and then performed so consistently. “I am just trying to be a sponge and absorb
everything they do.” And while fraternising with her heroes initially star-struck the ambitious Gill, she still understands the task she is there to accomplish. “Well… you want to get them out, that’s your main goal,” she revealed of her thoughts at the top of her mark to Perry and co. “It’s sort of just trying to work out different things, play around with them, work out how they react to different balls and see how they try to execute their skills. “They are my heroes and they are brilliant players, but at the end of the day I am the bowler, they’re the batter and they have to make a mistake. “So for me, it’s my job to get the ball to the other end and let the ball do the talking.” With her leg-spin developing swiftly, Gill is looking to further deviations as well as meticulously analysing her opponents. “I have got a few variations, I have the normal leg-spinner, I have a wrong-un, a slider and I also play around with the grip and bowl from different parts of the crease – I like to play around with those subtle variations,” she said. “I look at different girls and how they go about their work… first of all, I like to look
at how they stand and judging where their strengths and weaknesses may potentially be. “I also look for other things, their grip on the bat and how that allows them to access different areas, the bat speed, the hand speed, those factors I look for as well. “I like to do my analysis pre-game as well, so I know who I am going to be up against.” With the foundations in place, Gill is hopeful that the next step transpires as a result of improvement in one area in particular. “I have looked at a few things in terms of my execution,” she said. “I have the skill-set and that part of my game is set, I feel I am good enough to match the girls I come up against, it’s just the execution part of it. “You know, playing the right shot at the right time… identifying what the game requires at that particular time. “I guess with bowling, knowing what trick to pull out at what time… if a batter is going hard at me, what’s my field look like, what am I going to bowl.” The young gun is yet to debut for the Melbourne Stars, but has been named in each of the recent 13-person squads.
Tail-end torpedo gives the Maroons the upper hand By Tyler Lewis A righteous tail-wag has propelled Upper Beaconsfield to the highest score of the District summer. The Maroons were always going to make a big score after consistent starts highlighting the middle order, but it was a dazzling 65-run final wicket stand that guided Upper Beaconsfield to 9/320 against Pakenham Upper Toomuc. When Daniel Brennan (30 not out) walked out, the Maroons were 8/220, and when Andrew McDonald strolled to the crease, their side was poised strongly at 9/255. McDonald proceeded to blast an enchanting 47, which included one four and four towering maximums. When Chad McDonald was trapped in front leg before by Pakenham Upper Toomuc’s Nick Kyval, the Maroons fell to 6/160, but carried on to add a further 160 runs for the loss of just three wickets. Kyval was the pick of the bowlers for the Yabbies, with 3/98 from a whopping 25 overs. In the first red-ball match since the 2019/20 season, just one of the Yabbies bowlers bowled less than the previously restricted eight overs. Devon Meadows, meanwhile, successfully escaped the nothing-to-gain overs that are on offer in the dying stages of a two-day match. berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
Mitchell Candy hits long and high but is caught by Mansoor Ahmad off the bowling of Trent Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS ‘Scooby’ Scholfield. 306604
Mitchell Candy and Nick Mueller. 306604
The Panthers – led by Riley Worsteling (5/36 off 16.1) – bowled Cranbourne Meadows out for 198 in the 74th over, meaning they were forced to go out and bat to finish the days play. Rohit Sharma did his name-sake proud for the Rebels with a sizzling 56 from 54 deliveries. Fortunately enough for the Panthers, Kyle Salermo and Will Halton made it through the three overs unscathed – leaving their side a further 185 to win when play resumes on Saturday. The match between Lang Lang and Emerald is perfectly poised, with the Swamp Tigers being just the second side of the District
limping to 10/121 after 48 overs. Marygoon’s bowler Nick Mueller continued his fine season by claiming 5/38 from 15 overs. The Brookers struck early in the second dig, pushing the home side to the ropes at 2/12. But the innings was swiftly reassembled by Greg Interlandi (50) and Nathan Phillips (58), who took the scores to a level playing field, before the loss of another wicket. The Marygoons lost a handful of wickets before the close of play, but with the scoreboard reading 5/130 after 29, NNG/Maryknoll is still in a brilliant position to push for an outright.
competition to bat out its overs… well nearly! It was a horror start for the home side after winning the toss and opting to bat, losing opening stick Dale Cranston early. A patient 63 from other opener Shamil Samarasinghe steadied the Lang Lang ship a little bit, before a flurry of late wickets saw the Swamp Tigers dismissed on the third-last ball of the innings for 216. Clinton Marsh hit a neat line and length and was rewarded with 3/24 from his nine overs. NNG/Maryknoll, meanwhile, has already collected first innings points over Gembrook. The Brookers didn’t have much luck after winning the toss at James Bathe Reserve,
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Tricking his way to the top By David Nagel The head-spinning journey from The Shed Skatepark in Cranbourne to producing ‘worldfirst’ tricks on the biggest stage in his sport is now a pinch-yourself reality for Rhys Rogers. The 19-year-old summoned all of his brave qualities to deliver pure perfection, under the most intense of pressure, to win the Scooter Best Trick competition at the 2022 Nitro World Games at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane. In action or extreme sports - it doesn’t get any bigger than this - with thousands flocking to Suncorp to watch the world’s best FMX (Freestyle Motocross), BMX, skateboarders and scooter riders attempt to break world records and do tricks that push their minds and bodies to the limits. Rogers lived out his dream, qualifying for Nitro’s in May last year, but Covid forced the postponement of the event for 12 months. This year he won the Victorian state title, and finished third in the nationals, but there is one event that was always on his mind. “I qualified for the world championships in Arizona, but decided to focus on Nitro, and it’s paid off because it was the best experience of my life,” Rogers said. “I just couldn’t believe that I was at Nitro World Games to begin with. “I got to meet Travis Pastrana, and got to meet everyone I’ve looked up to, and then I was going up against Ryan Williams, who is the one who got me on a scooter to begin with. “I was watching his videos for so long growing up, it was surreal to compete against him and then win…it was the greatest experience in my life. “I still can’t believe it, even when it’s mentioned now those words still won’t sink in because I can’t believe it myself.” Typical Queensland storms looked like putting a dampener on the whole event, with Saturday and Sunday both being washed out, leaving Monday – the reserve day – to decide the champion. Each rider had three runs, with only the best run counting. Rogers was attempting a world first, his triple-backflip, no hand jump, but failed at his first two attempts. “I had been training for a year, knew it was my last jump, and just wanted to land it,” Rogers said. “I hadn’t landed it twice, I was in tenth position, so it was either land it or stay in tenth. “I said to myself at the top, ‘I don’t care if I crash’, I’m still happy that I was here, meeting
From left, Ryan Williams, Rhys Rogers and Dylan Morrison after Rogers claimed first place with a Picture: SUPPLIED ‘world-first’ trick at the Nitro World Games in Brisbane. 306677 everyone that I got to meet, and the experience was crazy. “But deep down, I really wanted to land it.” Rogers jumped onto his scooter and took off, launched high into the air and just seconds later had landed the biggest jump of his burgeoning career.
“I landed it and it was just the best feeling, I put my hand up in the air, I was jumping around, I’ve been to so many comps but nothing can beat that,” he said. “It’s crazy to me, I still can’t believe it, I look up to all of them guys and to be competing on such a big stage, and winning, it’s the biggest
moment ever and nothing will ever better it.” Williams, Rhys’s childhood hero, was banished to second place. “He was like ‘you cheeky little bugger’, but deep down he was happy for me because I trained at his training grounds in Queensland, called RWilly Land,” Rogers explained. “He’s got the same sort of ramp as Nitro, so he had me come out a couple of weeks before the competition and I was just so thankful to Ryan for taking me in like that. “My dad got me to Queensland, but Ryan was so accommodating for letting me train like that. “They (his competitors) were so happy for me, said I deserved it and that all the hard work has paid off.” Rogers said that after two failed runs, the thought had never crossed his mind to take a backward step. “They wanted the biggest tricks and that’s what the judges are looking for,” he said. “If you don’t land it the first two times, then land it on your last jump, the judges are going to reward it, how can they not do that. “It’s the basis of what we do…to push the boundaries.” Life has moved quickly since Rogers held his trophy aloft - with Williams and another hero Dylan Morrison standing by his side with a recent promotional trip to Japan just one of the benefits of putting his name up in lights. But the kid from The Shed in Cranbourne will never forget his beginnings. “I’m doing this because I want all of the kids to start on a scooter and to experience what I’m experiencing,” he said. “These kids need to know that if you follow your dreams, and chase your goals, you’ll get to the top eventually if you keep chasing them. “When I was younger, I would ask people a lot better than me how to get better, and they just said ‘practise’, they wouldn’t really help. “I thought then that I would never be like that if I make it to the top. “If a little kid wants a photo, or a signature, or something else, I’ll do my best to give it to them. “One kid at Nitro’s asked if he could have my knee pads, so I signed them and gave them to him. “I want to give back to the little kids, because I know what it feels like to be on the other side and not be taken seriously.” People are taking you serious now Rhys Rogers…how can they possibly not!
Humble Dandenong champion reaches 9000 runs By Tyler Lewis Brett Forsyth still remembers his debut Premier Cricket First XI innings and the liberating feeling of getting off the mark. Fast-forward 262 matches, the Dandenong champion was blissfully unaware that his 61st run on Saturday would propel him into the competitions 9000-run club, territory just 15 cricketers have gone before him. He joins some of the competitions greatest ever: Warren Ayres, Warwick Armstrong, John Scholes and Jack Ryder, just to name a few. “I hadn’t really considered it,” he said with a laugh after a long pause. “I suppose you pinch yourself, I remember my first game and just wanting to get off the mark and contribute to a win. “I guess to be playing such a high level and being able to perform strongly throughout the duration is something that is a little bit humbling. “I am proud that I have kept trying, trying to play as well as I can for as long as I can to help Dandenong win. “It is humbling, I guess I am proud to join those cricketers… statistically anyway.” He further remembered that debut innings and how a wiry teenager managed to get away to a start that at the time felt like a monstrous knock. 22 STAR NEWS
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Brett Forsyth is now in rare air. 204667 Picture: ROB CAREW “My first game was against Prahran – I was 15 or 16 – and they (Prahran) had five state players,” he recalled. “We had a few handy players ourselves with (Warren) Ayres, (Darren) Pattinson, (Peter) Siddle. “It was a bit surreal; I was walking in and David Hussey was walking in behind me, Bryce McGain, Jonathon Moss, Cameron Huckett (too), I remember my dad laughed and said ‘you and Huss are walking into the same ground together’. “We were lucky enough to win that day, they’re really fond memories, I probably remember that game more than others. “I think I got 15 and put a little partnership on with Darren Pattinson before Peter
Thursday, 10 November, 2022
Siddle got five-for, he then played his first game for Victoria later that week. “There you are not as powerful and a little bit limited, so you just try to feel your way into the game. “You also learn to love the challenge more rather than the end result, when you’re younger you just want to hit the ball to the fence, whereas now I enjoy the challenge of getting to 10.” The Panthers stalwart had a rare patch of smaller scores before Christmas last summer before finishing the year strongly. Despite evidently adjusting to leading in more ways than one to finish the season, Forsyth decided to relinquish the captaincy in the lead up to the 2022/23 summer. While he isn’t black-marking himself for futuristic leadership opportunities, he has enjoyed the freedom of just being responsible for runs. “I think it was just a change and for some people change is a bit difficult,” he said. “Taking on the captaincy (last season) probably shouldered a bit too much of the team’s performance and – because you’re not used to that – I found it difficult at times. “I think I adjusted well over the break, I hadn’t had a slump in terms of runs or output for a while, so you have to dig a bit deeper and think to when you were a bit younger and had a run of poor scores.
“I just want to give the boys a more positive start, thankfully we were able to do that yesterday, albeit not getting the end result. “I guess I have always still prided myself on leading around the club and on performance… I love captaining and if they asked me to do it again, I would do it, but at this stage I am happy to let others do it.” Unfortunately for Forsyth and his Panthers, his 73 wasn’t enough to steer Dandenong to victory - falling 53 runs shy of Essendon’s 6/241. Forsyth’s great mate Tom Donnell is just 12 runs shy of joining him in the 9000-run club. VIC PREMIER CRICKET ALL-TIME RUNS: 1. W Ayres 15277 2. G Watts 12933 3. W Scholes 12693 4. J Ryder 12677 5. P McAlister 11893 6. A Kent 11032 7. S Hill 10994 8. D Dempsey 10154 9. P Dickson 10045 10. D King 9461 11. W Armstrong 9395 12. B McArdle 9281 13. J Stuckey 9251 14. R Harvey 9146 15. D Russ 9042 16. B FORSYTH 9012 berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
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Softball stars hitting hard The Casey Softball juniors were able to take to the diamonds on the weekend after a rain delayed start to the season Cranbourne started strongly in its clash with Doveton/Cobras in a game full of new players. Cranbourne scored four first innings runs to Doveton/Cobras one, with Amelia Bacic (Doveton/Cobras) and Dakota Clunes (Cranbourne) both pitching well. Serena Bushby provided the fielding highlight of the game: with the ball hit to her at third base, she tagged the runner, and
then threw it to first base to get the batter out for a double play. Doveton/Cobras came back with another four runs to snatch a thriller 5-4. The wet outfield at Sweeney Reserve cancelled senior games. Don’t forget Women’s A Grade under lights every Wednesday evening at Sweeney Reserve from 7pm. The club is always looking for players in all grades, if you’re interested, please send us a message via Facebook or Instagram or you can email caseysoftball.vic@gmail.com
Star striker Jamie Maclaren converts a spot kick against Perth Glory during Melbourne City’s 4-0 Picture: AAP IMAGES win. 307341
Clinical City Veteran Jamie Maclaren added two more goals to his season tally in Melbourne City’s 4-0 dismantling of Perth Glory. The win sees City remain the only undefeated side and moves it three points clear of Western Sydney atop the table. City was on top from start to finish, but it wasn’t until the 49th minute that Maclaren got the first on the board, when he found space in the penalty box between four Glory defenders. He followed that up with a penalty in the 75th minute before Marco Tilio provided the highlight seven minutes later.
He converted from outside the box, bamboozling the Glory defence and goalkeeper to find the bottom corner. Matthew Leckie rubbed salt into the wound deep in stoppage time, capitalising on a rebound off the post to find the back of the net. The only sour point of the win was a concussion concern to defender Nuno Reis who was stretchered from the field. Having 19 shots to Perth’s one, to go with 63 per cent of possession, underscored the dominance of the win for the table-topping City which next up faces ninth-placed Newcastle away on Saturday evening.
There was a sense of excitement as the juniors were back out on the diamonds. Picture: SUPPLIED
Sun finally shines on our delighted junior tennis stars A rare full weekend of action took place in the Berwick and District Tennis Association as our junior stars dusted off the cobwebs after the recent stint of spring rains. There was a draw between Upper Beaconsfield and Berwick Blue in Section 6 singles, and many other close games as the competition now gets into full swing. Here is a look at this weekend’s results: SATURDAY Osborne Shield (Rubbers) Berwick 1 3:34 v Sandhurst 2 4:34, Cranbourne 3 6:39 v Narre Warren North Red 0 0:21, Narre Warren North Black 2 4:35 v Pakenham 1 3:34. Section 1 Rubbers Beaconsfield Blue 1 2:24 v Beaconsfield Gold 2 4:28, Drouin Gold 1 3:37 v Officer Blue 2 4:33, Narre Warren 1 2:28 v Cranbourne 2 5:42, Officer Red 0 1:24 v Pakenham 3 6:42. Section 2 Rubbers Berwick White 1 2:25 v Berwick Blue 2 5:40, Cranbourne Green 2 5:38 v Officer Blue 1 2:27, Narre Warren 0 0:19 v Cranbourne Black 3 6:37, Officer Red 1 2:26 v Beaconsfield 2 4:30. Section 3 Rubbers Berwick Blue 1 3:44 v Berwick White 2 5:50, Cranbourne 0 0:9 v Upper Beaconsfield 3 6:37, Harkaway 3 6:41 v Beaconsfield 0 1:22. Section 4 Rubbers Beaconsfield 1 3:34 v Officer 2 4:38, Narre Warren 2 4:27 v Harkaway 1 2:15, Clyde White 1 3:33 v Cranbourne 2 4:34, Narre Warren North 2 5:46 v Clyde Blue 1 4:48. Section 5 Rubbers Sandhurst 2 5:41 v Beaconsfield 1 2:25, Cranbourne v Narre Warren North (Forfeit), Fountain Gate 2 4:28 v Clyde 1 2:23, Bunyip 2 4:40 v Pakenham 1 3:39.
Berwick White 2:26 v Berwick Blue 6:43, Clyde 2:21 v Officer 6:43, Narre Warren 5:42 v Cranbourne 3:33. Section 12 Singles Berwick 7:45 v Gloucester 1:20, Tooradin 5:42 v Narre Warren 3:39, Fountain Gate 7:47 v Pakenham 1:12, Beaconsfield 7:44 v Cranbourne 1:18. Section 13 Singles Gloucester 0:13 v Harkaway 8:48, Officer Red 3:30 v Narre Warren 5:40, Cranbourne 1:11 v Officer Blue 7:42. Section 14 Singles Beaconsfield 5:35 v Berwick 3:29, Cranbourne 1:19 v Officer Red 7:46, Narre Warren 4:41 v Pakenham 4:32. Section 15 Doubles
Jess from Beaconsfield prepares to unleash a forehand in BDTA tennis. 293980 Picture: ROB CAREW Section 6 Singles Upper Beaconsfield 4:35 v Berwick Blue 4:35, Narre Warren 1:27 v Cranbourne 7:43, Berwick White 6:42 v Beaconsfield 2:22. Section 7 Singles Officer 4:34 v Berwick Blue 4:31, Cranbourne 7:47 v Berwick White 1:20, Narre Warren North 4:37 v Narre Warren South 4:33. Section 8 Singles Berwick 0:20 v Tooradin 8:48, Bunyip 2:27 v Upper Beaconsfield 6:43, Beaconsfield 1:24 v Cranbourne 7:45, Narre Warren North 5:43 v
Gloucester 3:34. Section 9 Singles Berwick 2:30 v Tooradin 6:41, Cranbourne 8:48 v Narre Warren North 0:5, Fountain Gate 4:30 v Clyde 4:37, Lang Lang 5:38 v Pakenham 3:26. SUNDAY Section 10 Singles Berwick White 1:24 v Berwick Blue 7:49, Officer 8:48 v Beaconsfield 0:18, Cranbourne 5:39 v Pakenham 3:36, Narre Warren 6:45 v Bunyip 2:19. Section 11 Singles
Berwick 4:27 v Beaconsfield 2:21, Officer 1:19 v Narre Warren Green 5:34, Narre Warren Yellow 6:36 v Upper Beaconsfield 0:9, Narre Warren Gold 6:36 v Narre Warren South 0:18. Section 16 Doubles Tooradin 2:26 v Narre Warren Gold 4:33, Fountain Gate 3:24 v Officer 3:27, Narre Warren Green 1:15 v Cranbourne 5:33. ASSOCIATIONS JUNIOR LEAGUE (AJL) 12B Boys: BDTA 1 1:28 v NSJTA 5 9:63. 14C Boys: BDTA 4 7:51 v Eastern Region 2 3:39. 14B Girls: BDTA 2 4:48 v NEJTA 4 6:41. 16B Girls: BDTA 0 0:17 v Bayside-Moorabbin 6 10:64. 16C Boys: BDTA 2 4:32 v NSJTA 4 6:50.
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