News - Berwick Star News - 26th January 2023

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Thursday, 26 January, 2023

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Public drunkenness reform concern

Equipment boost for Casey Hospital

Bulte bang on track

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SPORT

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Casey’s top citizens revealed

Double the Dowel

By Eleanor Wilson For Natures Organics managing director Justin Dowel, earning a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for services to the community through philanthropy is a huge honour.

But what is most special to the Narre Warren North man is that he gets to share in the experience with dad Terry Dowel, who is also being decorated with an OAM in this year’s Australia Day honours.

“That’s pretty big, from a business point of view Dad founded the company and I’ve seen him work six to seven days a week, blood, sweat and tears, for many years,” Justin said.

“He’s given his whole life to this company, so it’s a huge honour for me, I’m very proud to receive an award with him.”

Terry Dowel, who lives in Beaconsfield, founded Nature Organics - known for leading environmentally-minded cleaning and personal care lines such as Earth Choice, Cove and OC Natural - in the 1950s.

The company has also pioneered the use of recycled packaging and plant-derived formulations throughout the 1990s and 2000s in Australia.

Justin began working with the business aged 21 on the warehouse floor, quickly proving himself to his hardworking Dad and working his way up the company - first as sales manager in 1993, general manager in 1996 and managing director since 2004.

He has been largely responsible for the multi-million-dollar growth of the business, forging deals to get Natures Organics products into Coles and Woolworths even in his earliest days, according to Terry.

But arguably, Justin’s largest impact on Natures Organics has been through the company’s philanthropic work, which was sparked by a trip to Nepal in 2006.

“When we were in Nepal, we found that there were lots of kids living in the street who had nowhere to go, many of them without parents, so we found an orphanage and asked

Justin (left) and Terry Dowel are two of a handful of South East Melbourne residents to be honoured in the Australia Day awards. 316755 Picture: ROB CAREW what was going on and if we could help fund the kids,” Justin said.

“That started our journey from there.”

A trip to Cambodia’s infamous rubbish dump at Steung Meanchey the following year was another eye opener for Justin.

“There were three and four year old children with plastic bags melted to their arms... it was the most horrific thing I’ve seen in my life,” he said.

“There is so much we can do as humans to help beyond looking in our own backyard and I decided I would dedicate my life to doing everything I can to support these people.

“When you see these these kids now are at university and it’s just amazing to see the change it’s had.”

Today, the company makes monthly contributions to various charities, The School of St Jude Australia, Cambodian Children’s Fund,

Free to Shine, Reaching the Unreached, Catherine Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia and the Jane Goodall Institute Australia.

“We always give an allocated portion to each group every month, no matter what, because the biggest challenge for a lot of charities is finding sustainable income,” Justin said.

“The hard part is the economy is so bad now that the first thing big companies do is pull back their charity funding.

“We’ve found it as hard as anyone to maintain the performance of the business, but we have that commitment to the organisations we support and we won’t back down from that.

“We always say we aren’t here to give once, we’re here for a lifetime.”

The community-minded ethos is equally as evident in Terry.

“We’ve always been grateful for the com-

munity supporting us and one of our biggest motivations is to give back where we can,” Terry said.

“You do your best to make a reasonable profit, but out of those profits you have to share it with those who are in a bad way.

“It gives our company a much greater purpose and gives us something to be extremely proud of.”

Terry’s Australia Day honour also made mention of his passion for and commitment to his namesake car collection, which is made up of roughly 150 rare, vintage cars and memorabilia.

With the collection, which includes a 1948 Tucker, along with the first Holden prototype ever made in Australia, Terry established the Australian historical memorabilia public museum for Australiana and historical motor vehicles.

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Thursday, 26 January, 2023

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NEWS

Top citizens giving back

Melanie Bramble’s dedication to sustainability and recycling has earned her Casey Environment and Sustainability Champion at the City of Casey 2023 Community Awards. 280796 Casey Young Citizen of the Year – Tanisha Dooley Tanisha is a mentor with the Casey Youth Action Committee making positive contributions to the group, showing exemplary leadership and a willingness to give her time and support to others.

She also tutors on a weekly basis at the Aboriginal Gathering Place in Doveton, using her teaching skills to support young community members with homework assistance. She makes a positive contribution to the lives of young people in Casey.

Casey Senior of the Year – Peter Cahill Peter has been a volunteer English language tutor with the Adult Migrant English Service for 17 years. He is a star volunteer and always goes above and beyond developing material to ensure his students can continue practicing and learning.

During lockdown and social isolation, Peter ensured his students were engaged and encouraged to participate. He created various activities via Zoom and Facetime to help his learners continue to practice and grow even under difficult conditions. He also workshops ideas with his students to get the best out of them and ensures he is using the right tools to support them.

Casey Woman of the Year – Liesel Kippen Liesel is a teacher by profession and serves as an inspiration to others by making a difference in people’s lives. She raised over $17,000 for the homeless. Liesel also coordinated a care day for the vulnerable in our community before Christmas, offering hot meals, food hampers, clothing, blankets, toiletries and gifts for those who would otherwise go without.

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The City of Casey recognised and celebrated a record number of outstanding individuals and groups for going above and beyond in their contribution to the community at the 2023 Casey Community Awards on Wednesday 25 January.

Council held a special gala celebration event to announce the recipients of this year’s awards and acknowledge all the worthy finalists across the eight categories.

Jo Ann Fitzgerald was named the 2023 Casey Citizen of the Year, Peter Cahill the Casey Senior of the Year, Tanisha Dooley the Casey Young Citizen of the Year, Liesel Kippen was named Casey Woman of the Year, dance group Bandok Tati was the winner of the Lindsay King Art Award, Melanie Bramble was named the Environment and Sustainability Champion and the winner of the Casey Diversity and Inclusion award was the Afghan Australian Philanthropic Association.

Not-for-profit organisation Food Pantry was announced the 2023 Casey Community Group of the Year. They were awarded this for their work in supporting Casey residents with food, supplies, and essentials.

Maggie Ma’s art program with young Casey girls and women on the spectrum was awarded Highly commended in the Equity and Inclusion award, as was The Friends of Wilson Botanic Park, whose work supporting Berwick’s Wilson Botanic Park was highly commended in the Environment and Sustainability Champion award category.

City of Casey Chair of Administrators Noelene Duff PSM announced the winners and congratulated all the nominees for the welldeserved recognition.

“It’s fitting that we celebrate the individuals and community groups who give so much to our community and make Casey such a wonderful place to live,” Ms Duff said.

“Today we celebrate the many people who give their time, passion and energy to help build a better community here in Casey.

“I’d like to congratulate our 2023 Casey Citizens of the Year, along with the award winners and all the nominees for these prestigious awards. Thank you for the contribution you all make to our community.”

2023 Casey Community Award recipients Casey Citizen of the Year – Jo Ann J Fitzgerald Jo Ann is the heart and soul of Neighbourhood Watch Casey (NHW) which has flourished under her leadership. A lifelong public servant, she works tirelessly to ensure the group grows, stays together, is relevant and meets regularly. Jo Ann has established good partnerships with council, police and local businesses to ensure the best outcomes for the community.

She manages the group and its community events, including Safe Plates Day, community safety information, and the group’s Facebook page, sharing timely and relevant safety information with Casey residents.

She also sits on Council’s Casey Community Safety reference group to ensure NHW has a voice and is represented.

She consistently volunteers with a soup kitchen, raises funds for homelessness, collects and distributes warm clothing, has a voice on the Casey Council Libraries group and supports overseas charities too.

Liesel demonstrates compassion and positivity in everything she does for our community.

Casey Environment and Sustainability Champion – Melanie Bramble Melanie takes recycling seriously, at home and in the community. She funds many different hard-to-recycle recycling options for the community, with her house being the drop-off point. She is passionate about recycling, and coordinates with her children’s school and her workplace to make sure everything that can be recycled is recycled. She also promotes other recycling programs available to Casey residents.

Melanie runs a Facebook page promoting local recycling options available to Casey residents. She has reduced waste in her own home and is keen to learn more about waste and recycling so that she can improve on her efforts, promote the services she offers, and share her wisdom.

Casey Diversity and Inclusion Award – The Afghan Australian Philanthropic Association (AAPA) The AAPA provides support and information about education, health, police, housing, and employment to newly arrived Afghan migrants and refugees.

Older members of the community are encouraged to stay connected and young people are engaged through sport, specifically soccer, as well as music and dance that enables

Afghan culture and heritage to be celebrated.

The group supports diversity and inclusion for all, in particular women, who under the Taliban regime were forbidden education, medical support and employment opportunities.

Lindsay King Art Award – Bandok Tati Bandok Tati is an Aboriginal dance group based in the City of Casey - Boonwurrung/ Bunurong Country. They are a group of young men aged from 8 to 21 years old who aim to bring more awareness to their culture through song and dance. They pride themselves on their authenticity and power to share their personalities and smiles with everyone they meet.

They hope to inspire the broader community, and eventually the world, to learn more about the beauty of the oldest surviving culture in history, Aboriginal culture.

Casey Community Group of the Year – Berwick Church of Christ Food Pantry Food Pantry volunteers have been providing crisis care to the community in the form of fresh and non-perishable food, toiletries and nappies for the last ten years.

The Food Pantry team have created an environment where clients are respected, valued, accepted and cared for during their time of need.

As well as the practical support they provide, the team works to brighten the lives of those they serve emotionally. Their dedication is demonstrated by providing a comfortable waiting space, ensuring privacy is upheld, and supporting specific dietary requirements. The volunteers show their exceptional service and commitment to those going through financial hardship in our community daily.

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STAR NEWS 3

THE LOWDOWN Q&A

with Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne team leader Nicole Ebert

Tell us a fun fact about yourself!

I grew up on a 1000-acre farm and now work in a 1000-acre garden.

What do you love about the work you do with the Royal Botanic Gardens?

The interaction with visitors in such a unique setting within the native gardens and the work staff are doing behind the scenes to present the plants and protect the native fauna.

What would your last meal be?

Sticky date pudding with vanilla bean ice cream.

What is your most memorable moment?

Visiting Disneyland and seeing my husband’s smile when riding the Teacups – a childhood dream – we were in our 40s.

What event past or present would you like to witness?

Seeing the world at the time of dinosaurs!

Which three guests, dead or alive, would you invite to dinner?

Nelson Mandela, Dalai Lama and Richard Branson.

What are you currently listening to, watching or reading?

Listening to ’70s music like Led Zeppelin, watching Itchy Boots YouTube channel, and reading The Elephant Keeper’s Daughter by Julia Drosten.

If you had to compete on MasterChef, what dish would you cook?

Sri Lankan chicken curry, brinjal, yellow rice and dahl.

Where is your dream holiday destination?

The Caribbean – sunshine and warm – and somewhere I haven’t been yet.

What were you like as a kid?

Quiet, shy and I like being crafty, creating things.

What was your first job?

Working in a deli making coffees and selling

Nicole is team leader of visitor experience, access and tourism at Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria.

Picture: SUPPLIED cheeses and roast chickens.

What are the three most used apps on your phone?

Google, Weatherzone and Photos – I love look-

THREE … native Australian trees

1

Silver Wattle The feather-like leaves (up to 13cm in length) of Acacia dealbata are silvery and bark streaked grey, white and green.

It displays round scented yellow flowers from July to October.

2

Blackwood A tree with dark bark and deep green foliage (up to 15cm in length). Acacia melanoxylon displays round, creamy yellow flowers from July to October.

3

Mealy Stringybark A tree with grey-green and roundish juvenile foliage that does not shed its thick textured bark. Eucalyptus cephalocarpa offers an abundance of white blossoms from March to August.

ing at photos taken and remembering the time.

What’s one question that you have always wanted answered?

What are my dogs thinking?

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Thursday, 26 January, 2023

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NEWS

Casey continues to grow

By Eleanor Wilson Casey is the third-fastest growing region in the country, according to new data from KPMG Australia.

The report, released last week, analysed the fastest growing regions across Australia since 2019, focusing on areas which had experienced an influx of new residents.

It showed ‘Casey South’ had grown at an annual rate of 4.5 per cent since 2019 - welcoming 29,400 new residents.

Blacktown (North), in New South Wales, posted the second largest increase in population over the 2019-2022 period, with 30,100 new residents, while Wyndham, in Victoria’s South West, came out on top with 34,500 new residents since 2019.

The analysis found Australians continue to flock to ‘greenfield’ suburbs, which describe former rural land areas that are being developed for housing, typically with detached houses.

Greater Melbourne’s greenfield areas has seen significant growth over the past three years, although growth rates have slowed compared to the previous period, according to KPMG demographics expert Terry Rawnsley.

“The growth areas have offered new residents affordable housing compared to most established parts of Melbourne,” Mr Rawnsley said.

“Affordable housing, quality amenities and access to local jobs and services has driven this level of growth,” Mr Rawnsley said.

In response to the report, City of Casey chair of administrators Noelene Duff said the

The analysis found Australians continue to flock to ‘greenfield’ suburbs, with the fastest growing areas being suburbs where detached housing is common.

Picture: UNSPLASH council is committed to taking the adequate steps to support the municipality’s continuing population growth.

“Providing the supporting infrastructure and services in a growth area is crucial,” Ms Duff said.

“That is why council is committed to advo-

cating to the Federal and State Governments for the top three areas in which the community wants to see more investment: roads and public transport, local job opportunities, and health services and facilities.

“Our $125.45 million 2022/23 budget allocation demonstrates council’s own commit-

ment to providing the community with the services and infrastructure it needs, exemplified by projects like the $4.7 million Clyde North Family and Community Centre, and the $2 million Cranbourne West Sports Reserve.”

In the past 18 months, developers have delivered over $50m of arterial road and intersection projects to service Casey’s new growth areas, Ms Duff said.

“Council is also committed to engaging, facilitating and partnering with landowners and the development sector to deliver connected, sustainable and highly productive employment precincts, for example ESR’s Green Link Estate in Cranbourne West, which promises to create significant local job opportunities.”

The council’s Shape Your City community engagement program, which identified the key community priorities for the future of the city, will also support the population growth Ms Duff said.

“These priorities are central to the Vision and Council Plan and have informed our strategic approach in five key areas – economic development; infrastructure; the environment; health and wellbeing; and transformation - to ensure Casey remains a thriving community going forward.”

Despite the strict international border closures through the thick of the COVID-19 pandemic, Australia has added more than 1 million new residents since December 2019.

The annual growth rate nationally for 2022 was 1.7 per cent, the highest since March 2017, with Australia’s population exceeding 26 million people for the first time.

Battin airs concerns over public drunkenness reforms

By Eleanor Wilson Berwick MP Brad Battin has hit out at the State Government’s decision not to give police any new powers once public drunkenness laws are abolished in Victoria later this year.

The government announced on Tuesday 17 January that Victoria would decriminalise public drunkenness in November 2023, replacing the criminal justice-based approach with a health-based response.

But Mr Battin, along with The Police Association, argued that making the changes without putting move on orders in place would pose a risk to the community.

“Our view is quite simple, we’re not against the decriminalisation of public drunkenness, but, in line with The Police Association, we have issues around the removal of power for Victoria Police…they need to be able to keep those rules in place whilst we endorse a health response to keep our community safe,” Mr Battin said.

Chief executive of The Police Association, Wayne Gatt said the reform plans were “a tragedy waiting to happen”.

“The government has written police en-

Berwick MP Brad Battin fears the government’s reforms could put undue pressure on ambulance services. 288615 tirely out of the equation when it comes to dealing with those who are drunk in public,” Sgt Gatt said in a statement.

“Under this new response model, soon to be introduced by the government, police will only respond once a crime is committed.

That is, when it’s too late.”

Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Victorian Attorney-General Jaclyn Symes defended the reforms, stating replacing the laws with move on powers “undermines the whole purpose” of the reform.

“These laws are about decriminalising public intoxication, they are not about dilating any further police powers, they are not about ensuring being drunk is an excuse or a get out of jail free card for other offences,” she said.

“Police will still have the options of stepping in when somebody is disturbing the peace, causing a scene or have concerns about violent behaviour or the like. We expect that that would be a continued response.”

The new response would see intoxicated individuals taken home to friends and family, or to specially designed ‘sobering up centres’ instead of police stations.

But Mr Battin, who is shadow minister for police and emergency services, said he holds concerns for the logistics of the plan.

“It’s a big concern, which the Police Association has raised as well, in that there’s not actual infrastructure or services currently in place to fix the problem,” he said.

Of additional concern is the pressure the changes could put on ambulance and emergency department services, Mr Battin said.

“What we don’t want is ambulances being used like taxis for drunk people when they could be assisting people in life-threatening

situations,” he said.

The reforms were implemented after the recommendation of a government panel into the death of Yorta Yorta woman Tanya Day in police custody in 2017.

In a statement, the Day family said it welcomed the changes, including the government’s decision “not to add or replace already excessive police powers and laws”.

“Our mother would still be here with us today if Victoria Police had treated her condition seriously and cared for her with a public health response, but they chose to criminalise her at her most vulnerable time,” the family said.

“She was left to die alone on the floor of a police cell after the officers responsible for monitoring her failed to adequately care for her as required by the Victoria Police guidelines.

“As our mother’s case shows, police cells are dangerous places for those intoxicated, especially our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

“No person should ever be locked up just for being drunk in public, and there should be no role for police or police cells in a public health response.”

Golden night for Berwick boy

By Shelby Brooks Berwick is shining a little brighter this week thanks to local country music star Andrew Swift who brought home a Golden Guitar from the 2023 Tamworth Country Music Festival.

The Toyota 51st Golden Guitar Awards - on Saturday 21 January in the nation’s country music capital, Tamworth - saw Swift walk away with one of the night’s biggest wins - Male Artist of the Year.

Following a string of impactful singles across the last 12 months including the undeniably catchy airplay favourites Young Lovers and The Good Old Days, the win was his first in this category.

The Berwick-based muso said he was a bit of an underdog in the category, so was stocked by the win.

“The guys I was up against are big names in the industry, they’re friends of mine as well and I know how big their years have been. We berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

all work our butts off,” Swift said.

“I was a bit of an underdog with only one nomination on the night, whereas everyone else had four or five, so I think that’s where it was a big shock.”

“When it comes to the awards, it’s always nice to get a nod from the industry to say you’re doing something right, but it’s not all about awards - that’s not why we make music,” he said. “[Male Artist of the Year] was a bucket list item, especially being nominated three times, you do hope you get a win in there.

“I’m hoping it helps lift my profile more and helps me tour more and helps me bring my band on tour with me.”

Swift said he’s already seen a spike in streams of his songs online since the win and hopes it will help his music reach more people.

Swift is performing at the Noojee Pub on 18 March and you can keep up to date with his other live dates at andrewswift.com.au

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Thursday, 26 January, 2023

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STAR NEWS 5

NEWS

OPINION

Charges after online scam

LENSCAPE

Doncaster Police have arrested and charged a Templestowe man following alleged online scam incidents.

The incidents relate to alleged fraudulent transactions having occurred over online marketplaces between 3 and 7 December 2022 in Ringwood, Narre Warren, Mill Park, Mitcham and Doncaster East.

It’s alleged electronic goods were obtained in person using false documents and a substantial amount of money was obtained under the ‘Hi Mum’ scam via SMS. The scam involves criminals sending messages from an unknown number, claiming to be the recipient’s child.

Once the scammer develops a relationship with the recipient over text, they reportedly ask to borrow money.

The 21-year-old man has been charged with five counts of obtain property by deception following an investigation over the past six weeks.

He has been bailed to appear at Ringwood Magistrates’ Court on 18 July.

Police encourage the public to become more informed of current and emerging scams via the ACCC’s website at scamwatch.gov.au A display of the types of police vehicles in action as part of Operation Amity. 316738

Picture: ROB CAREW

THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN

In August, police cybercrime experts said more than $2 million had been stolen under “Hi Mum” scams. 253041

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To coin-operated washing machines.

To Lunar New Year celebrations!

Thumbs up To local Andrew Swift. Male Artist of the Year Golden Guitar Winner.

You beauty.

Funeral Director

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To cancellation of Australia Day parade in Melbourne in favour of a flag raising ceremony at Gov-Gen residence.

To Australia Day celebrations. Reflect, respect, celebrate. We’re all part of the story.

Thumbs down To the Aus Open for not paying ballkids!

Thumbs down To going for a walk to the shops on Tuesday night when it was hot and ending up having to run home wearing socks and slides because I got caught in heavy rain on the way back.

Thumbs down To morons who like to race up the freeway, and then try and cut in at the last second instead of joining the queue like the rest of us. Ho

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Thursday, 26 January, 2023

Casey health boost Casey Hospital is one of 23 health services across the state set to share in $55 million in new equipment and upgrades, the State Government announced on Tuesday, 17 January.

As part of the latest round of the State Government’s Medical Equipment Replacement Program (MERT), hospitals will receive new equipment for a range of services, including diagnostic tools such as MRI machines, microscopes, digital X-ray units and CT scanners as well as heart imaging equipment such as fluoroscopy units and SPECT-CT gamma cameras.

Casey Hospital will cash in on more than $2.3 million for a new CT scanner X-ray unit, which will boost the capacity to treat patients, part of $35 million earmarked for Monash Health to purchase the latest medical equipment.

“While there is always work that needs to be done to improve our health system, fixing primary care must be the Commonwealth’s top priority – so every Australian can get the affordable healthcare they deserve,” Acting Premier Jacinta Allan said.

In addition, the Engineering Infrastructure Replacement Program will see 18 health services across Victoria share in more than $20 million to upgrade important infrastructure such as generators, chillers, emergency lighting, nurse call systems, air conditioning systems, patient lifts and alarm systems.

Casey Hospital is set to receive a multi-million dollar equipment boost. 153243 berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Perera’s retirement twist

By Cam Lucadou-Wells In a just-released autobiography, former Cranbourne MP Jude Perera has revealed a falling out with Premier Daniel Andrews played a role in his retirement.

The four-term Labor MP’s life, political and health battles are detailed in his just-released autobiography Challenging Incomplete Democracy.

The 69-year-old, who was the first Sri Lankan-born and -educated MP elected to a lower house of parliament in Australia, retired in 2018 after a long battle with renal disease and two kidney transplants.

In his book, Mr Perera describes then Opposition Leader Mr Andrews dumping him as an opposition parliamentary secretary after missing a division during Parliament in 2014.

It resulted in the Opposition “losing a vote we should have won”.

He would not regain a Cabinet or parliamentary secretary role.

Mr Perera, one of Mr Andrews’s “very loyal supporters”, wrote that colleagues thought his demotion was “very unfair”.

“I was sick as a dog and was disappointed with how Daniel Andrews had treated me, a loyal supporter.

“This event coupled with my health issues led me to consider retirement.”

Mr Perera told Star News that Mr Andrews was a “tough cookie”.

“He knows what he has to do to maintain his support in the electorate.”

He was not surprised by Labor’s decisive state election win in November.

“There was a large silent vote that supported Labor because of its handling of the coronavirus issue.”

In his book, he writes that Mr Andrews “seems to put his personal survival first and foremost and is very good at it”.

Retiring incumbent Jude Perera handing out how-to-vote material at the 2018 state election.

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS He described previous Premier Steve Bracks as “appealing to the electorate” who “swept under the carpet” controversial issues like abortion law reform.

Caucus meetings were “stage-managed boring affairs” without “serious policy debate”.

Former Premier John Brumby was “forthright in dealing with tough topics” but not as electorally appealing as Mr Bracks, the book states.

Growing up in rural Sri Lanka, Mr Perera was steeped in left-wing politics in what was a turbulent environment.

His father Edmund, a coconut plantation manager, was a leader in the Marxist party Lanka Sama Samaja and hosted meetings with activists around his kitchen table.

After dabbling in politics and struggling to make ends meet, he left Sri Lanka with wife Iranganie and two small children for a “better life”.

In Australia, he joined the ALP in reaction to the Kennett Government.

In 1998, his political know-how helped him

to build local support for ALP preselection in the seat of Cranbourne.

In his book, he says many Sri Lankans were intially surprised at his preselection in what was then a heavily Anglo Saxon electorate.

“Many asked questions such as, ‘Did they easily give it to you?’,” Mr Perera writes.

“What they really meant was, ‘How come a dark-skinned Asian migrant has been selected by the white skin majority to stand for parliament?’”

His memoir delves into great detail into his political philosphies.

“A lot of (candidates) don’t have a (political) belief,” Mr Perera told Star News.

“They think that because there aren’t enough people with ethnic backgrounds, they think they should be in Parliament.”

In his book, Mr Perera details recruiting Sri Lankans to join ALP branches as well as the battles for control of the South East between Left and Right factions.

“I came to know that if you have a permanent support base, you are a force to be reck-

oned with,” he wrote.

“If you want to be recognised in the Labor Party, you need to have a membership base under your control; your power base.”

He told Star News that the branch-stacking involving former Labor Minister Adem Somyurek, which was recently investigated by IBAC, went “too far”.

Mr Perera defined branch-stacking as recruiting members who weren’t involved with activities at the branch or in support of the local candidate.

“Adem Somyurek went too far. He thought he could be the king-maker around the ALP.“ Mr Perera appeared as a witness in the IBAC Operation Sandon inquiry into alleged corrupt dealings between property developers, MPs and Casey councillors.

Mr Perera told Star News that he agrees that Victoria should follow NSW’s lead and ban political donations from developers.

“The issue is that people should not give donations for personal favours.”

The Sandon report, which investigated possible law reforms, has yet to be publicly released.

Reflecting on his tenure as an MP, Mr Perera is most proud that he helped many with immmigration and visa issues.

He says he went beyond the call of duty.

And in many cases his intervention helped people migrate to Australia.

However, Mr Perera says his health is “not the best”. After two failed kidney transplants, he is back on three dialysis treatments a week.

He says he’s listed for a third transplant, but unlikely to receive it due to his age and the extra antibodies he’s acquired from previous transplants.

The book Challenging Incomplete Democracy is available at judebiography.au

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berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

Thursday, 26 January, 2023

|

STAR NEWS 7

NEWS

Fuel loads spark concern Fire restrictions will be put in motion in the City of Casey from Monday 30 January, as the Fire Danger Period (FDP) commences in the municipality.

The return of a La Niña weather pattern has led to widespread rainfall and flooding in parts of the state, but authorities said communities shouldn’t be complacent about the increasing fire risk this season.

The Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for summer identified potential for increased grassfire conditions for the 2022/23 fire season, due to significant grass growth and delayed harvest activities.

Based on the latest outlook, the fire season is expected to be normal in Victoria, except for parts of central, north east and eastern Victoria where the potential is below normal.

CFA District 8 Acting Assistant Chief Fire Officer John Francis said while rainfall over recent months saturated grassland and forests, wind conditions has dried these fuels out considerably.

“Widespread rainfall in winter and spring has led to high fuel loads across the region and we can expect to see significant grassfires this season,” he said.

“Do not become complacent this fire season – now is the time to begin preparing your property by clearing gutters, pruning, cutting back overhanging trees.”

While CFA firefighters are preparing for the bushfire season, they are urging the community to use common sense and take responsibility for preventing fires.

Residents in these areas should take this opportunity ahead of the FDP to conduct safe private burn-offs to reduce fuel loads and clean up their property.

If you are using fire to clean up your property ahead of the FDP, you should notify authorities of the burn-off at the Fire Permits Victoria website at firepermits.vic.gov.au, or

ton Peninsula Shire, Yarra Ranges and French Island.

As of 1 September, the fire danger rating system changed and is now nationally consistent across every state and territory.

The system reduces the number of danger levels from six in the previous system to four: moderate, high, extreme and catastrophic.

Victorians can learn more about the new fire danger rating system on the CFA website.

Fire Danger Period information: A written permit is required to burn off grass, undergrowth, weeds or other vegetation during the FDP. This permit may be issued by the Municipal Fire Prevention Officer or the CFA District Office. You can apply for a permit at firepermits.vic.gov.au Lighting a fire in the open without a permit is an offence and can bring a penalty of over $21,800 and/or 12 months imprisonment.

Barbecues and fires for cooking and warmth do not require a permit, but must be lit in properly constructed fireplaces. To view complete conditions, visit cfa.vic.gov.au/ warnings-restrictions/can The use of an incinerator, chainsaw/lawn mower, welding/grinding equipment and vehicles that come in contact with vegetation and machinery with an internal combustion/heat engine are permitted provided conditions are followed.

Farmers can find legal guidelines and practical advice at cfa.vic.gov.au/plan-prepare/ farms – this information is important especially for new farmers, bush block owners or hobby farmers.

A Total Fire Ban declaration means no fires can be lit for the declared district for that day unless there is a specific exemption or special permit issued. This applies irrespective of the Fire Restriction status for a given municipality. Further details at cfa.vic.gov.au/ warnings-restrictions/can

·

·

·

The Fire Danger Period will commence in the City of Casey on Monday 30 January. by calling ESTA on 1800 668 511.

No burning off is permitted during the FDP without a Permit to Burn, which can be applied for through the Fire Permits Victoria website.

There are very strict conditions attached to these permits and the liability sits with the permit holder to ensure they always act safely.

Monitor weather conditions and do not burn-off during days of high winds. More information about burn-off restrictions specific to your area can be found by consulting

Picture: CFA

your local council.

More information and restrictions are published at cfa.vic.gov.au/warnings-restrictions/ fire-danger-period-restrictions Victorians can find out ‘Can I or Can’t I?’ information at cfa.vic.gov.au/warnings-restrictions/can or by calling the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226.

FDP restrictions will also begin in other councils on 30 January, including Cardinia Shire, Bass Coast Shite, City of Dandenong, City of Frankston, City of Kingston, Morning-

· ·

We’re building big near you and there will be transport disruptions As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re building the Metro Tunnel.

We’re also upgrading roads and freeways to reduce congestion to make your journey safer and easier.

Train disruptions: Buses replace trains in both directions Cranbourne and Pakenham lines

Until 27 January

Flinders St to Westall

Road disruptions: Closed roads and lanes Until 31 January

At McCormicks and Hall roads

South Gippsland Highway, Until 1 February Dandenong South

Between Pound Road West and Carter Way

Narre Warren-Cranbourne Until mid February Road, Cranbourne

Intersection closed at Thompsons Road

Ballarto Road, Pakenham South

30 January to 24 April

Between Healesville-Koo Wee Rup and Cardinia roads

Island Road, Pakenham South

30 January to 24 April

At Healesville-Koo Wee Rup Road

12580931-HC04-23

Hall Road, Skye and Carrum Downs

Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

8 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 26 January, 2023

5664

Check before you travel at bigbuild.vic.gov.au

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Crews extinguish Lynbrook grassfire Firefighters from brigades across the South East spent hours fighting a grassfire in Lynbrook over the weekend.

Six CFA units from Hampton Park, Casey Group, Cranbourne, Hallam and Narre Warren responded to a grass and scrub fire in Paterson Drive in Lynbrook at around 1.18pm on 22 January, a CFA spokesperson said.

Crews arrived to find a grass and scrub fire in the wetlands next to the train line, near Lynbrook Primary School.

Incident controller Lieutenant Joel Shaw said the fire took several hours to extinguish.

“It took us a good hour and a half to two hours, under control within an hour but still a bit of flame,” he said.

A CFA spokesperson confirmed the fire was declared under control at 1.59pm and safe at 3.36pm. Lt Shaw said a cause for the fire had not been determined.

The incident has been handed over

to Victoria Police.

In response to the incident, Lt Shaw said residents can ensure their safety this fire season by checking emergency smoke and fire warnings, available at emergency.vic.gov.au “A couple of helpful pieces of advice would be to keep your distance from emergency services while they do their job and if you find yourself near a grassfire, walk at least two streets back,” Lt Shaw said.

Jack was rescued after being found in a septic tank.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Junior CFA graduates are ready to gear up Horse saved Beaconsfield Fire Brigade is paving the way for future firefighters.

Five juniors have graduated to senior status through the brigade’s well-established Juniors Program.

Riley McKenzie, Daniel Di Camillo, Jeremy Lynn and Chris Jenson have been a part of the program for five years, while Axel Martin joined for two.

Beaconsfield Juniors Program team leader Jason McKenzie has gladly committed his time and passion to training the new breed of firefighters over the past five years.

“It’s been a massive achievement. I’m so

proud of the boys and what we’ve been able to accomplish so far,” Jason said.

In true community fashion, the family affair down at the brigade included Jason’s son Riley as one of the graduates and Jeremy, a son of brigade members Brett and Lisa Lynn.

Riley, who was the first of the juniors to get the program back up and running again, said he would treasure the quality time he has gained with his dad and his friends throughout the opportunity.

“My dad has been a big fan of the CFA for a very long time, so I decided to join up alongside him and I’ve found it to be a very fun and

Junior graduates Axel Martin, Riley McKenzie, Daniel Di Camillo, Jeremy Lynn and Chris Jenson.

enjoyable experience,” Riley said.

“I really enjoy the social aspect of it - everyone at the brigade is really welcoming. I just love to be around them. It’s heaps of fun.”

The brigade’s Juniors Program consists of a five-year plan that sees kids coming in at age 11 and trained up through to senior membership at age 16.

The CFA’s Junior Development Program runs in more than 160 brigades across the state, providing them with an opportunity to participate in brigade activities that build confidence, develop new skills and foster leadership abilities.

Picture: SUPPLIED

By Tyler Wright Local brigades have come together to rescue a horse at risk of drowning on a Belgrave South property.

Jack, a 22-year-old Gelding, fell into a large septic tank on Thursday 12 January, with Belgrave South Fire Brigade, Narre Warren East Rural Fire Brigade, Fire Rescue Victoria called to assist alongside Macclesfield Fire Brigade.

With specialist equipment for large animal rescues, Macclesfield Fire Brigade was able to halter and lift the horse out of the tight space after accompanying crews bucketed sewage out of the tank.

“We had to get some straps underneath the horse. We use these big, wide straps that don’t dig into them and then we hook that up to a spreader bar and then that goes on to an excavator,” Macclesfield Fire Brigade Captain Sharon Merritt said.

“We used an excavator that they had on site, and then we got the vet to sedate the horse because it’s very stressful for them, and we don’t want them thrashing around while we’re trying to get them out because it gets too dangerous.

“The horse was slightly sedated, and then we use the excavator to lift it out of the pit and onto the ground where I think it had one cut on its leg, which while it was sedated, the vet dressed and bandaged.”

Leaving the scene with Jack walking around with the vet and his owner by his side, Ms Merritt said the prognosis was “pretty good”.

“It’s very satisfying, we always like to see them recover.”

Ms Merritt said Macclesfield Fire Brigade is called out to around 15 large animal rescues a year, being one of the two brigades in the state with the necessary equipment.

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berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

Thursday, 26 January, 2023

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STAR NEWS 9

NEWS

New church welcomed The newly developing suburbs of Clyde and Clyde North will have a new church from Sunday 5 February.

Proclaim Anglican Church has been established as a project of Berwick Anglican Church with a goal of providing Anglican Christian services for communities in the developing residential suburbs to the south of Berwick.

Reverend Reece Kelly will be the Pastor of the new church and is looking forward to welcoming local residents to this new church which will initially meet at the Eliston Community Centre located at 20 Eliston Avenue, Clyde each Sunday for services commencing at 9am.

Foundation Pastor Rev Reece Kelly was formally Associate Pastor at Berwick Anglican Church. Rev Kelly was born in Echuca where he attended primary and secondary schools prior to enrolling at La Trobe University in Bendigo to study education.

After three years at university, Rev Kelly considered that Bible teaching rather than general teaching was the direction he wished to take.

Accordingly, Rev Kelly commenced studies at the Melbourne School of Theology and obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Ministry in 2016.

In the following year he took on the position of Youth Minister at Berwick Anglican Church and began further studies culminating in a Graduate Diploma in Divinity from Ridley College in 2018.

Rev Kelly became Assistant Minister at Berwick in 2019 and Associate Minister in 2021 during which time he acted as locum during a transition to the new Vicar at Berwick

Rev Vijay Henderson.

Announcing the establishment of the new church, Rev Kelly said the growth of Clyde and Clyde North over the last five years was astounding.

“We are planting an Anglican church in hopes of becoming a permanent and visible community presence for the people of Clyde and Clyde North.”

The suburbs of Clyde and Clyde North have grown substantially over the past six years from a combined population of 10,300 to the current figure of just on 50,000.

The original small township of Clyde was a small hamlet, and Clyde North a farming area, but these days they are a thriving community made up of thousands of new dwellings.

Proclaim Anglican Church aims to be a Gospel centred, Word-focused community that is on mission in Clyde and Clyde North.

The Proclaim Anglican Church at Clyde/ Clyde North will provide a Christian family church catering for all ages, with programs for all.

This new district is made up of many young families and it is anticipated that the new church will be a focus for young people, their parents, and older residents looking for a vibrant Bible-teaching place of worship.

The first service will be conducted at the Eliston Community Centre in Eliston Avenue, Clyde on 5 February at 9am.

All are invited to attend and will be made very welcome – any enquiries may be directed to Rev Reece Kelly at reece.kelly.p@gmail.com

Rev Reece Kelly will take on the role of Pastor at the new church.

Picture: SUPPLIED

12585002-MS04-23

10 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 26 January, 2023

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Long weekend crackdown

By Sahar Foladi Operation Amity will be in full force this Australia Day long weekend with police issuing a stern warning to those getting behind the wheel when they shouldn’t be.

Operation Amity will see police across the state utilise automatic number plate recognition technology (ANPR) to detect and prosecute drivers who are unlicensed, suspended and disqualified.

Assistant Commissioner for Road Policing, Glenn Weir said: “We’ve seen an unacceptable road trauma at the start of 2023. We can’t continue to have people lose their lives by making poor decisions so we’ll be out there trying to ensure that people comply with road laws, that people aren’t speeding, driving whilst impaired and particularly aren’t driving when they shouldn’t be.”

With the new technology, police will take stern actions against anyone breaking the law - especially, driving when they shouldn’t be.

There are 239 highway patrol vehicles across Victoria and each of them will be fitted with the technology as well as additional police cars in regional and specialist areas.

Additionally, there will be unmarked police cars with the new technology on the roads as well.

“They might be a marked patrol car, a motorcycle or an unmarked car people will not know which vehicle is detecting for driving them when they shouldn’t be.

“So I want to make it clear to people, if you run gauntlet of driving when you shouldn’t be, you will be detected,” Mr Weir said.

The ANPR technology also picks up a whole range of other factors such as stolen cars and unregistered vehicles.

“We have a focus on broader law enforcement, we can input a whole lot of data on the list that can check people who are wanted, people who are a person of interest for a whole range of criminal activity as well,” Mr Weir said.

The ANPR technology can scan up to 76 million number plates a year or 8675 number plates an hour..

There are more ANPR-fitted police vehicles on Victorian roads than ever before.

“We know that people use this short period to get away before the kids could go back to school so places like Phillip Island, Mornington Peninsula and East Gippsland, we will have a strong presence,” Mr Weir said.

Police will also be targeting feeder roads.

During the pre-Christmas blitz operation it was clear a lot of people were driving when they shouldn’t have been.

Police detected over 1000 such cases, which is why Operation Amity will be enforced for the Australia Day long weekend.

“We saw levels of speed and levels of driving impairment, people were over the limit of alcohol or who had drugs in their system, but the one that really stood out was people detected for driving when they shouldn’t have been,” Mr Weir said.

It comes as unauthorised drivers were in-

B. Kovac (Senior Constable State Highway Patrol) left, with Glenn Weir, Assistant Commissioner for Victoria Police. 316738

A display of the types of police vehicles in action. 316738 volved in 31 fatal collisions last year, a 29 per cent increase on the previous year which is another reason why this operation is vital.

During a recent state-wide road policing operation, ANPR helped police detect 1021 motorists who should not have been on the roads - 33 per cent more than the previous year.

The media opportunity in the outer suburban area was another road trauma location in 2021.

“Last year we ran a lot of operations in and around this particular area and saw a real reduction. All the local police state-wide resources came together really well to reduce trauma.”

Police ask roads users to slow down and plan their journey.

“We can’t be everywhere at all time - I really want people to take responsibility for their own actions.

“Wake up, grow up and arrive safely, that’s what we want,” Weir said.

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berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

Thursday, 26 January, 2023

|

STAR NEWS 11

NEWS

Artist Ananda in his studio. 316183

Picture: ROB CAREW

Art decades in the making

By Eleanor Wilson If you take a peek into Ananda Weerasekera’s Narre Warren South home, the vibrant canvases that fill the walls are a clear display of his love for nature and art.

For the soon-to-be 85-year-old, painting has always been a hobby, but it was only upon migrating to Australia from Sri Lanka 22 years ago that he began to revel in the pastime.

Next month, the Old Cheese Factory will play host to 35 of Mr Weerasekera’s paintings,

as they go on public exhibition - a debut decades in the making.

“I started painting in school back in Sri Lanka and then when I moved to Australia I began painting with oils, because the materials are readily available here,” Mr Weerasekera said.

“I saw a few exhibitions with oil paintings and thought why not give it a try.”

A 10-year stint in the Navy gave Mr Weerasekera an appreciation for painting seascapes, his favourite being a reproduction of a painting depicting the sinking of the Bismarck,

which took him several months to complete.

The grandfather of seven’s career as a landscaper has also guided the subject of his art, with striking orchids, frangipanis and birds of paradise paintings furnishing his painting room at the front of the family home.

In addition to being eye catching, he says the theme of bright, block colours present in his paintings holds a deeper meaning.

“It’s connected to my outlook in life really - I want everything to have brilliance. I don’t like dull colours, I always like to enhance it some-

how,” he said.

Mr Weerasekera said he paints “whenever he finds the time”. Most of his free time is now spent with his wife, who he cares for, but he jumps at the chance to lose himself in his painting room when he can.

“It’s very relaxing for me to paint,” he said.

Mr Weerasekera’s art exhibition - Flowers & Seascapes - will see 35 paintings exhibited from Tuesday 14 February to Monday 10 April at the Old Cheese Factory, 34 Homestead Road, Berwick.

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12 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 26 January, 2023

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Gaz will star as Swing in the internationally acclaimed play Choir Boy. Picture: SUPPLIED

Set to shine on stage

By Eleanor Wilson

Bakhtar Community Organisation had to clean up again after a third burglary in its Noble Park warehouse.

Enough is enough

By Sahar Foladi As soon as they thought they’ve had enough, the Bakhtar Community was slammed with the news of a third burglary since December 2022.

The first two incidents took place in December and now a third incident recently has left the community shattered.

CEO Bassir Qadiri said they had a truck load of items, including sewing machines among other items, delivered by the Rotary Club.

“At 3pm we put everything inside and we left because we had distribution the next day.

Next day at 10am we came to see everything was a mess.”

The burglars had left the entire warehouse a mess, leaving the Bakhtar community volunteers to clean it up for the second time now.

“Even in main building they smashed all the items and broken a lot of stationery in the office.”

The police have been called for the third time now and investigators are working on the case.

The Bakhtar Community warehouse in Noble Park is council land which has been leased to the organisation to carry out their work for the community.

They’ve been unable to install a CCTV camera on premises due to lack of electricity.

Mayor Eden Foster said: “It was agreed from the outset that electricity would not be provided as it would be a large cost to council, and the building is scheduled for demolition to increase open space in the municipality.”

However, the council have been working closely with the organisation to build a fence and place bollards to put an end to the burglaries.

“Council will pay for a contractor to have these works completed. Bakhtar Community Organisation will receive a key to lock the re-

No donation box was left unscathed by the burglars. berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

movable bollards to further assist with their operations,” Cr Foster said.

Council is also discussing with Bakhtar Community Organisation about the possibility of installing a battery solar powered CCTV camera in the short-term.

Meanwhile, the organisation will distribute whatever is left and will delay the distribution for the next week as they plan to get works done with the council.

“We promised some people to come take extra packages - we don’t want them to go empty handed. We cannot take risks so we delayed the next delivery, so we’ll have it in February in Hallam.

“Once everything is secured, then we will resume the normal operation,” Mr Qadiri said.

The organisation is looking forward to its free music night event on 28 January in Keysborough before they can resume normal operations again.

A leap of faith has paid off for a young Hampton Park school teacher, who is set to star in coming-of-age theatre spectacular Choir Boy. After seven years as a primary school teacher at Narre Warren’s Oatland Primary School, it was the pandemic that pushed Gareth Dutlow to reassess his career aspirations.

“It’s always been there in my heart to follow this dream, but I’ve been playing it safe for a while,” Gaz laughed.

“I went to uni, I did some drama units, but ultimately pivoted towards a more stable career path and fell into teaching.

“I have no regrets, I love kids, I love youth and I love mentoring them, seeing them grow and inspiring them to be whatever they want to be, but over the pandemic I thought I’m nearing 30 - if I want to give it a go I should do it now.”

Tony-nominated play Choir Boy which was Gaz’s first audition - tells the story of a young gay man of colour, threaded with themes of sexuality, race, hope and gospel.

The play premiered in 2012 at London’s Royal Court Theatre, before seasons across the USA and a successful Broadway production.

For Gaz, who identifies as queer, many of the tropes of the play bear an uncanny resemblance to his own life experience.

The actor and former pastor was raised in the church and tightly connected to his faith, but recently resigned from his pastoral position.

“Everything I was looking for in church, the community and the authenticity, I came to find in other places,” Gaz said.

“Since then I haven’t found the need to find a church service at 10am on a Sunday to grow in my faith and express my faith.”

The Australian premiere of Choir Boy will kick off in Sydney from 14 February to 11 March, before embarking on a national tour - a dream come true for Gaz. “I’m very excited, thrilled. I’m just filled with anticipation of what it will be like,” Gaz said of his first role on stage.

“This is a dream to perform in capital cities across Australia… it’s something that little Gaz dreamt of and I’m glad I can bring the inner child in me with me on this journey.

“Especially for a show like this, where I can show my faith and my queerness it’s a match made in heaven.”

Playing the role of Swing, Gaz said he hopes the show can prompt audiences to come together and find common ground.

“At the end of the day, these are human stories and I believe we have far more in common with one another than there are differences,” he said.

“It’s insane to me that I can relate to universal stories as a queer person of colour… we are seeing growth in that space in theatre and screen in Australia and it is becoming increasingly colourful and diverse.”

Thursday, 26 January, 2023

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STAR NEWS 13

NEWS

Endeavour Hills-Bayside over 70s veteran cricketers with dog Sophie. 316737

Picture: ROB CAREW

A threatening storm cloud looms over Syd Pargeter Reserve. 316737

Veterans bowl up a storm Over 70s veteran cricketers defied time, but couldn’t beat the elements in a washed-out match at Syd Pargeter Reserve.

A tight battle between home side Endeavour Hills-Bayside and Warrandyte was nearing completion until play was abandoned due to storms on Wednesday 24 January.

“There was a huge bolt of lightning and thunder close by. It was not safe to stay on the field,” Endeavour Hills player Rob Wilson said.

Warrandyte was 6/97 after 30 overs, in pursuit of the home team’s 7/127 from 40 overs.

The sport was a fun way for seniors to stay fit and active, Mr Wilson said.

“We don’t play for sheep stations. We all just like to play.

“It’s better than sitting at home watching telly.”

The 10-round Veterans Cricket Victoria competition is held weekly up until March.

Soon after, Endeavour Hills will have a team of over 60s for a 32-team national tournament in Echuca.

Rob Wilson, from Endeavour Hills-Bayside, faces the bowling. 316737

An Endeavour Hills-Bayside batsman hits out.

Rob Wilson, from Endeavour Hills-Bayside.

316737

316737

WHAT’S ON Bumble Bee Baby and Children’s Markets - Berwick

Summer Sessions at the Orchard at Montague

With up to 65 stallholders, you are sure to snap up some bargains on new, handmade and preloved baby and children’s goods for all ages!

And ,of course, we have a coffee van on hand for all your caffeine needs!

At only $2 entry for adults (children <12 yo free ) and plenty of free parking it is the perfect Sunday morning outing!

Sunday 5 February 9am to 12pm at Berwick Fields Primary School - 35 Gwendoline Drive, Berwick.

Enjoy an afternoon of live music, drinks and food on the lawn at The Orchard at Montague, with a fantastic line-up of talented local musicians performing live on Sunday afternoons.

There will be some outdoor seating and picnic rugs available, however, you are encouraged to bring your own so you don’t miss out.

This is a free event for the whole family so bring everyone along. Sorry, no BYO food or drinks.

·

Berwick Boutique Craft and Food Market Step back in time and browse the wonderful and unique crafts and design from local makers and unwind from the week.

On site parking available at $5 per car. Dogs permitted, subject to conditions.

Saturday 28 January 9am to 2pm at the Old Cheese Factory, 34 Homestead Road, Berwick.

·

·

#CaseyGirlsCan: Bollywood Dance Sessions Get active and have some fun at our free Bollywood Dance sessions.

Participants will learn four-to-five Bollywood songs and different dance moves, while connecting with other community members.

From 11am to 12pm every Thursday from 19 January to 16 March at Indoor Leisure Complex, Building 5, 65 Berwick-Cranbourne Rd, Cranbourne East.

·

Hampton Park Australia Day event Join the Hampton Park Progress Association for Australia Day celebrations.

From 9am to 12pm on Thursday 26 January

·

14 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 26 January, 2023

at Arthur Wren Hall, Hampton Park.

Tooradin Australia Day celebration Lots of fun is to be had on the Tooardin Foreshore on Australia Day, 26 January.

A free sausage sizzle, outdoor cinema, live music and baby barnyard pet zoo to be enjoyed by the whole family.

BYO chairs and picnic rugs. No alcohol permitted.

Thursday 26 January 4pm to 10pm, Sawtells Inlet, Tooradin Foreshore.

·

Voices of Casey Voices of Casey is looking to recruit new members who love to sing. With mixed ability and

experience, we aim to positively impact our community and participate in events.

2023 rehearsals commence again on 30 January at Fiddlers Green, 57 Gloucester Ave, Berwick at 7pm. Come check us out - first session is free.

Grow Mental Wellness Program GROW offers a unique mental wellbeing program to those suffering from stress, anxiety, depression and other emotional difficulties.

Gold coin donation appreciated.

For further information, please contact GROW Community Centre on 1800 558 268. Website

Come down from 2-5pm every Sunday from 22 January to 26 February at 18 Horswood Road, Narre Warren North.

grow.org.au Cranbourne Group meets at the Balla Balla Community Centre, 7/9 Selandra Blvd, Clyde North VIC 3978, Thursday 10.30am – 12.30pm, excluding school holidays.

Berwick Swap Meet 2023 The annual Berwick Swap Meet is on Saturday 4 February 2023 hosted by the Dandenong Valley Historic Car Club at Akoonah Park Berwick. $5 entry and free off-street parking, gates open at 6am. Children under 14 free. Food and drink option available on the day. berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

World Fare Night a big hit

By Sahar Foladi The explosion of colours and entertainment has come to an end after three nights of successful events which saw a total of 23,000 people attend.

The last event on Thursday 19 January saw more than 8000 people attend.

It featured a Lunar New Year theme with Chinese acrobatic performance, China dolls on stilts, LED blossom tree, red envelope give-

aways and a famous double lion dance.

Dandenong Market’s general manager Ian Sumpter said everyone loved the lion dance.

“They jumped off the stage and snaked their way into Market Square for an incredible performance. It’s so popular with our community who turned out in droves to celebrate with us.”

The burst of entertainment had the locals crazy for the event and some even attended all three.

Confetti was used for the Lunar New Year celebrations.

Lunar New Year themed dress.

Pictures: ROB CAREW

Live music entertained the crowd.

The traditional lion dance stole the show.

FOCUS ON … DANCE, MUSIC AND DRAMA

‘I always feel welcome’: Classes at Cathy-Lea Studios Meet Malaika. She is 15 years old and has been taking performing arts classes at Cathy-Lea Studios for 10 years.

Malaika loves to sing and takes private singing lessons in Cathy-Lea’s Music school.

Her favourite dance styles are Hip Hop and Jazz. She won the Open Hip Hop solo section at the Southern Dance Festival and Southern Federation of Dance Competition in 2022. She was also a finalist in ATOD Australasian Jazz Scholarships.

Malaika is studying Advanced 1 Cecchetti

Classical Ballet having competed her Intermediate exam with Honours. She gained 100 per cent in Elementary Jazz and Honours in Intermediate Tap (ATOD) in 2022. She also takes classes in Contemporary, Lyrical, Commercial Jazz, Conditioning and Acrobatics, trains in the academy’s Elite Training Program.

One of her favourite experiences in 2022 was the Cathy-Lea Queensland Dance trip, which included dancing in the Dreamworld parade and taking classes at Dance Force Studios in Tweed Heads.

When asked what she likes about training

at Cathy-Lea Studios, Malaika said: “I always feel welcome. It’s like my second (very diverse) family and home. Our teachers are always teaching us new things and providing us with many opportunities.”

“There’s never a dull moment in class. Everyone is always laughing and learning, which makes you really want to go to dance, be proud of your studio and strive to achieve your goals.”

Cathy-Lea Studios have been training children of all abilities in performing arts since 1991 and offers classes for children from 18 months through to adults.

Programs offered include the award-winning Ready Set Dance Program, Cecchetti International Ballet, ATOD Jazz and Tap, Drama and Musical Theatre, Instrumental Music, Pre-profesisonal Training, VCE Dance and VET Dance.

The studio also runs a talent agency to connect students to professional performance opportunities.

Find out how you can dance with Malaika at Cathy-Lea Studios in 2023. Visit cathy-lea.com to enrol, make an enquiry or register for a free trial class.

Train with us in 2023 Dance Music & Drama classes

Rock n Roll Classes Beginners & Advanced

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Classes held at Cranbourne & Pakenham CRANBOURNE TUESDAY NIGHTS Starting 31st January at 7pm PAKENHAM WEDNESDAY NIGHTS Starting 1st February at 7pm One of Malaika’s favourite experiences in 2022 was the Cathy-Lea Queensland Dance trip, which included dancing in the Dreamworld parade and taking classes at Dance Force Studios in Tweed Heads. berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

$10 per night - No Partner required

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Creating stars since 1991

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STAR NEWS 15

NEWS

Measuring job satisfaction TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS IAN ASH How much do you enjoy your job?

According to the latest Gallup World survey (State of the Global Workplace 2022 Report), only 17 per cent of employees in Australia are engaged or actually enjoying and actively contributing to their work.

That means that 83 per cent of staff are not engaged which implies anything from just turning up and doing what has to be done right through to actively working against the best interests of the employer!

Since around 794 to 1185 (the so-called ‘Heian’ period), the Japanese have been aware of a concept known as ikigai.

The word ikigai is made up of two Japanese words: iki which means life and gai which means value or worth, so a loose translation might be reason for living.

The concept became popular through Japanese psychiatrist and academic Mieko Kamiya’s 1966 book On the Meaning of Life.

It is useful because it describes the four key elements necessary for personal self-fulfilment and I use this simple model in my own work to understand business leaders’ current level of satisfaction.

In order to be fulfilled in your work, you need to be doing something you love.

This is very different from just enjoying or liking what you do, it is what gets you out of the bed in the morning excited to come to work.

When you are doing something you love, you never work another day in your life.

Being great at it means that you know you

Only 17 per cent of employees in Australia are actually enjoying and actively contributing to their work. have a skill for something and others recognise this in you as well.

The opportunity to effectively apply what you know is very satisfying and hence an integral part of ikigai.

Being well paid for what you do is a very subjective part of the model.

Peter Rabbit

There is no absolute threshold here and it very much depends upon the nature of the work that you do, but it is essential that you feel adequately rewarded otherwise this can impact self-confidence and even self-esteem.

Doing something that you know is required by others is a tremendously satisfying feeling.

You will often hear that teachers and paramedics are underpaid but what tends to keep people in such jobs is that they know just how important and valuable their work is.

If you are not feeling self-fulfilled in what you do, which of the four areas are the primary reasons?

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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

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Rex Flannery, pictured in late 2015, wants his name stripped from council. 148005 from anywhere within the City of Casey ... whether it’s a plaque in the botanical gardens or in Bunjil Place, I want them removed so they have absolutely no recognition anymore,” he said.

“They’ve disgraced themselves and they’ve disgraced the council. They’ve taken something away from me that I totally enjoyed. I loved serving the Casey community. I just want some clarity as to what way it’s going to go.”

Since his resignation, Mr Flannery has been working in an operating theatre at a local hospital. He said he has every intention to run for council again in 2024.

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

“I want to get back into serving the community again. I want to run again and I want to get my name back on the honour board for the right reasons. At the moment it’s a dishonour board,” he said.

Star News understands Mr Flannery has put forward his request to be heard by the administrators at the next council meeting, slated for Tuesday 2 February.“It’s up to them now but a year later, this is still eating at me. I need closure and this is one way that I can get it,“ he said.

“I played no part in any downturn or sacking of the council and I feel it’s my duty to say that I don’t want to be a part of or in any way

Bunjil Place. associated with the 2016-20 term.”

Casey’s governance manager Rhys Matulis said: “Given the IBAC investigation, it would be inappropriate to comment on that matter. Council has received and will consider Mr Flannery’s request in due course.”

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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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By Mitchell Clarke

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Thursday, 26 January, 2023

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NEWS

Peacock, the Bird of “Kurinji Land” (The Land of Hills and Valleys) and Tiger, the animal of “Mullai Land” (The Land of Forests).

Tamil Ancient Performing Art has performed in Australia since 2015, thanks to Australia Tamil Arts and Culture Development Centre (ATACDC).

Pictures: ROB CAREW

Nature brings us together

By Sahar Foladi A rich cultural festival was celebrated on Sunday by the Tamil and wider community of Dandenong.

Thai Pongal is a thanksgiving to the nature celebrated by Tamils in India and Sri Lanka.

This festival has been celebrated as a community since 2011, first by Casey Tamil Manram and now renamed as Tamil Festival Australia, where a collective effort by multiple organisations help to create this platform to continue the Tamil heritage and engage with the wider community.

Chairperson of Tamil Festival Australia, Sivasuthan Kulendrasingam said 17 organisers came together to host this event.

“We tried to make it an event that enter-

tains any multicultural from any community.

It’s a good cultural experience at the same time.

“Nature can bring other multicultural community together and same time we can share the Tamil heritage with other communities,” he said.

The Tamil community households brought their pots to make sweet rice pudding from freshly harvested rice to offer to nature as thanksgiving.

The day was full of entertainment, including jumping castles, rides, photo booth, cultural dance, meals and songs.

Mr Kulendrasingam said there were folk artists from India, showcasing instruments and dances.

“We had a lot of food stalls, retail stalls. Aus-

kick had a demo session at the event.”

The decoration of the festival was made to reminisce the way of a farmer’s life, as many Australian Tamils have experienced back home.

“There were decorations with banana trees and sugarcanes.

“There was a hut, to symbolically note the hut was made with wood which gave the experience as whatever you see in the homeland in Sri Lanka,” Mr Kulendrasingam said.

Traditional welcome drinks were also given to locals made with milk water and Mr Kulendrasingam explained it’s the same milk water farmers drink.

Tamil Festival Australia had applied for a community grant which was recently accepted with a $1000 grant from 2021 for the next four

years to support their work in the community.

Mr Kulendrasingam said this is recognition, responsibility and a motivation for them to do better.

“We could plan the event better and make it grand. It’s a big responsibility but we have a commitment to deliver and it has motivated us to add value to this multiculturalism.”

Mr Kulendrasingam said the grant would help them to improve in every aspect.

“We’ll get more help by outsourcing and get help professionally, bring in good artists and improve the sound system.”

Right now the festival is organised by a group of around 80 volunteers who’ve worked hard to put everything together for the wider community to enjoy.

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STAR NEWS 19

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Thursday, 26 January, 2023

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SPORT

Bulte plots path to glory

By Jonty Ralphsmith Deep into a toasty Melbourne night last week, New South Wales 21-year-old Rinky Hijikata was locked in a tense battle in the first round of his Australian Open campaign.

Down two sets to love against a top-100 ranked German, the Aussie wildcard appeared to be a certain first round casualty at his home slam debut.

But in front of wild Aussie fans, Hijikata reeled off the next three sets to progress to the next round and set up a clash with World Number 4 Stefanos Tsitsipas.

Hijikata lost that one comfortably, but got the experience of playing in prime time on Rod Laver Arena against one of the best in the world after walking an ‘off-broadway’ path to the top.

For one Beaconsfield and Fountain Gate junior, Hijikata’s journey mirrors the route he is looking to take.

Narre Warren resident Alex Bulte is currently in his sophomore year at Florida State University (FSU) playing college tennis and majoring in sports management.

Just two years ago, Hijikata was playing the same level of tennis at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - it was his final step before going onto the second tier ITF and ATP challenger tours, and now, playing at grand slams.

“He was one of my role models,” Bulte said of Hijikata.

“We have travelled together and been roommates so it is surreal seeing him do so well.

“I actually sent him a message saying how proud I was of him and he was joking around saying how electric it was out there.

“It can happen like that,” Bulte added, clicking his fingers.

“You’ve just got to stick with it.”

As well as Hijikata, American Ben Shelton is another poster boy for the rise of college as a viable path for professional tennis aspirants after reaching the quarter finals.

A number-one ranked Australian junior - as high as 101 in the world juniors - and Victorian National Academy player, Bulte has always been a talent destined to give the ATP tour a shake.

Colleges have had their eye on him since he was 15, appeased by the multiple ways he has to win matches: he can grind; interrupt his opponents’ rhythm by serve-and-volleying; and pressuring from the baseline, pouncing on the loose ball.

Like many Aussie kids, he grew up with sport as his second language, also playing footy at Beaconsfield and Devon Meadows as a junior.

He loved the camaraderie at the Tigers and Panthers, something absent from tennis.

Insert the college idea.

“The team has such a good vibe, everyone loves being around each other, which you probably wouldn’t get in an individual tennis tournament where you only have one happy winner at the end,” Bulte said.

“Everyone’s just down in the dumps all the time which can become a toxic environment travelling for 10-12 weeks on tour, you’re not going to win every week obviously, so it can get a bit depressing.”

While the mainstream media hones in on the professional tour where players often have a full entourage, and racquets are sometimes treated with less respect than silver coins, life for most players is far removed from that glamorous utopia.

For most, a more realistic picture is grinding lower-level tournaments in faraway places without a sponsor or coach, and playing with the mindset that wins are necessary moreso to fund another week on tour than to increase a ranking.

But at college, decisions are made in the best interests of his tennis.

Coaches, nutrition experts, recovery centres and equipment are all covered to have players at peak performance on the court.

Bulte automatically has nine college teammates to train with at a high-intensity, rather than scrambling to have a hit with someone on tour between matches, and having no-one to hold him accountable if he has a poor session.

“It’s more mental than anything,” said Florida State University assistant coach Chris Doberwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

Alex Bulte as a junior on the rise. 120614

Bulte loves the team atmosphere that college tennis brings.

Aussie Alex Bulte is progressing his tennis at Florida State University. 316586

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Bulte enjoys his time on the doubles court.

I think at any moment, it could click.” Chris Doerr, Alex Bulte’s coach.

COLLEGE TENNIS EXPLAINER in January and runs through un· Begins til May. Bulte’s Florida State University is ·

· · ·

currently undefeated from four fixtures this season.

Each fixture is best of seven.

The fixture kicks off with three separate doubles matches – each match is one set, with the team that wins at least two of the three matches awarded the doubles point.

There is a greater emphasis on doubles tennis on the college scene than in regular systems, with the tramlines being in play for about one third of practices. This

err who has worked with Joe Salisbury, Rajeev Ram, and Bob and Mike Bryan, who have all been World Number 1 doubles players.

“He can be tough on himself sometimes which is a great quality to have in practice, but in a match he has to be more positive and supportive on what he is doing and then it is going to come down to his self-belief.

“He is so quick, so talented, once he starts to believe in himself, he’ll perform at each level he comes at.”

Asked how far Bulte is off the next level,

· · ·

suits Bulte who is comfortable at the net and returns well.

The singles matches are best of three sets with each individual contest being worth one point First to four points in singles and doubles wins the game – sudden death deuce.

During fall, players compete in tournaments of their choosing as the tennis is much more individual-oriented.

Players play to improve their Universal Tennis Rating (UTR) which reflects a player’s current skill-level based on their most recent 30 head-to-head performances in a 12-month period.

Doerr said: “I think if you talk about top 500 (in the) ATP (singles rankings), he’s maybe 12 months away, having success on the ITF pro tour, he’s not far away at all, I think at any moment it could click.”

Tonsillitis, an ankle sprain and finger injury punctuated Bulte’s first year in Tallahassee but he’s finally getting some continuity in his body and delivering on-court.

During his time at FSU, Bulte has increased his power and come into his own as a player that can finish points off.

Bulte currently has a 14-14 win-loss record in singles, including winning five of his last seven, and a 24-12 record in doubles.

The 21-year-old has seen both sides of the coin, touring as a junior before he got a taste of the team culture at college level.

(As a junior), we would go on six-week tours and those first couple of weeks were crucial for me because you lose your first two weeks, first round, and you think ‘is this going to be a massive waste?,” he said. “‘What if I don’t win a match for this whole tour’ - the doubts start to creep in.

“Luckily I didn’t always have that bad a mindset when I played, but it’s a snowball effect which is waiting to happen when you have that mindset of results over process.

“Everything just comes down when you’re in that mindset.

“I’ve been through those times where that’s all that is on my mind and it’s not good.

“I’m sitting in my bed going ‘why is my (universal tennis ranking) not higher, why am I not beating this guy on that day’ and stuff like that, whereas here I can just focus on day to day routines and getting my studies right and having the back up plans which makes me feel good about myself.

“That was a big thing of college, having the balance in life and creating healthy habits.”

Thursday, 26 January, 2023

|

STAR NEWS 21

SPORT

Lions let big one get away

By Marcus Uhe Narre South coach Matthew Brooks and his Lions have been left ruing a chance to make a statement in DDCA Turf 1, after losing a winnable game against Springvale South on Saturday.

Lions star Jeevan Mendis threatened to win the game on his own, claiming 4/33 with the ball in what would have been one of the upsets of the season, after Springvale South claimed a 10-wicket win in their first meeting of the year back in round two.

The returning Ryan Quirk combined with Mitch Forsyth to put on 61 for the first wicket for the Bloods, before Mendis teamed with quick Jawed Hussain to make a mess of their top order.

A score of 0-61 in the 11th over became 5-75 in the 21st, when Brayden Sharp became Mendis’ third scalp.

Sharp (two), Jordan Wyatt (one) and Jackson Sketcher (zero) all fell cheaply to the leggy, who now sits second on the leading wicket taker’s list with 17.

Blade Baxter’s heroics with the ball last week were replicated with the willow, topscoring with 42 as he and Yoshan Kumara added 62 for the seventh wicket, leaving the Lions 193 to chase.

Brooks believed Springvale South’s total was roughly a par score, but felt it should have been less after that collapse.

“They got off to a pretty hot start but they lost 6-30 in the middle, so at 6-90 we really missed a trick to restrict them to 150 or below,” he said.

“We probably lack that strike bowler through the middle who can put pressure on them there at that 6-90 stage.

“Baxter and Kumara played quite well, you’ve got to give them credit.

“In the end they got away from us a little bit in the end in that last three or four overs.

“We were looking at around that 170 mark but that last few overs they got away from us.”

Lacking any other significant contributions from the top order, it was that man Mendis again causing the Bloods headaches.

He formed a solid partnership with his skipper Kyle Hardy before a mix-up saw Hardy short of his crease as they backed-out of quick single, as Baxter broke the stumps from a Quirk throw at the bowler’s end.

Mendis’ brisk 63, with four sixes and five fours, showed his class against a quality bowling attack, and at 5-132 with him still at the crease, the upset looked on.

Enter Sketcher.

The all-rounder broke Mendis’ resistance, nicking-off to Paul Hill behind the stumps in

Berwick’s Mason Binns was one of Lauchlan Gregson’s three wickets for Hallam Kalora Park.

316265 Picture: ROB CAREW the 34th over.

From there, the tail couldn’t offer much more, rolled for 154.

Despite showing their credentials against a quality opponent, Brooks said the overall emotion was disappointment for not claiming the win.

“We really let that one slip, which would have really put us back in-touch with the four, which was disappointing,” he said.

“When Hardy and Mendis were at the crease and both going really well, I thought we were in-control and I was pretty comfortable at that point.

“Then we had that run-out which changed the outlook of the game and we didn’t have another batter to really support Jeevan at the other end.

“We kept losing wickets at important times, which gave him too much to do in the end.

“It got out to six, seven, eight runs an over and it was just a bit too much for the boys to control.”

The result leaves them in fifth, right in the mix for the fourth finals spot, jostling with North Dandenong (fourth) and St Mary’s (sixth).

But there’s hope within the group that they can cause a ruckus, should they qualify.

“We’re still a game out but with five games to play, if we can pinch three or four of them I reckon we might be a chance there, but it’s still a long way off,” Brooks said.

“We’re still positive, we’re definitely disappointed that we dropped two or three games that we should have won, but we’re definitely still staying positive and in the last five games, if we can have some good results.

“We do have a different looking side this year but we’ve definitely got those high-end players and on our day we can match it with anyone.

“In the next two weeks we’ve got Hallam and Buckley, so that’ll be a big few weeks and then the following weeks we play those sides around us.

“Depending on other results, if we can have some good results against them, we should be there or thereabouts.”

Tensions threatened to boil over at Lois Twohig Reserve on Saturday as North Dandenong hosted Buckley Ridges in a battle between two finals contenders.

Buckley were left shaking their heads after batter Hadigallage Jayaratne was caught on the boundary, alleging that the fielder, Ramneet Dhindsa, crossed the boundary prior to completing the catch, then threw the ball back to another fielder in the field of play.

From their viewing position outside the sheds at North Dandenong, they believe the fielder clearly claimed a catch that should not have stood.

The umpires determined it to be a fair catch, however, and Jayaratne was dismissed for one.

Later on, during North Dandenong’s batting innings, there was another flashpoint as a Buckley fielder attempted to retrieve the ball after a boundary.

A report was made by the umpires against Maroons quick Zarak Aseel, who will face a DDCA tribunal hearing on Wednesday night, for allegedly kicking Mahela Udawatte.

The drama threatened to overshadow Nimesh Kariyawasam’s five-wicket haul, who claimed each of Buckley Ridges’ top four bat-

ters as Buckley were held to 8-215 batting first.

Daniel Watson top-scored with 51 at the top of the order before he became Kariyawasam’s fourth victim, as the right-armer reduced the away side to 4-85 after a promising 70-run opening stand.

The Maroons’ chase never really got going.

Dhindsa was the only batter in the top order to make a start, with 31, before he was caught behind off Michael Davies.

Tahsinullah Sultani got off the mark with a pair of slog-sweeps for six off Sanka Dinesh, but too much fell to him as he watched partners come-and-go at the other end.

A three-wicket cameo from Watson, including a brilliant stumping from Troy Aust, put the finishing touches on an excellent all-round display from the veteran, as his side secured a 90-run win.

Returning veterans Matthew Chasemore and Leigh Booth both top-scored for their respective sides at Arch Brown Reserve as Berwick fell to Hallam Kalora Park at the Bear Cave.

Chasemore’s 40 and James Wilcock’s 31 formed the backbone of Berwick’s 8-153 batting first, with a steady flow of wickets impeding their ability to go big late.

Even when they did attempt to hit-out, tight bowling from skipper Jordan Hammond and Sayed Rihan at the death meant it was difficult to penetrate the field.

Lauchlan Gregson was the pick of the bowlers for the Hawks with 3-26 off seven.

A spirited display from former Tasmanian quick Andrew Perrin attempted to breathe life into the Berwick defence, but 153 was never going to be enough against a quality batting outfit in brown and gold.

Booth, who missed last week’s showdown with Springvale South, led the chase with 59 as Hawks reached the total with six wickets remaining.

In the battle of the bottom sides, it was St Mary’s who got their second win of the year with a victory at Parkmore.

Openers Duveen Kalansooriya (74) and Kasun Niranjana (83) put on 155 for the first wicket, setting Parkmore 235 to win.

Parkmore was never in the hunt, dismissed for 157 in the 35th over, replacing St Mary’s in last position.

Keppler Fernandez, who had only taken two wickets this season prior to Saturday’s game, bagged 6-48 off his 10, while Niranjana’s 3-25 were his best figures for the year.

Springvale South remain the team to beat, followed by Buckley Ridges in second and Hallam in third, while Berwick and Parkmore round-out seventh and eighth on the table, respectively.

Connell takes the reins at Outer East

By Marcus Uhe Veteran sports administrator Brett Connell has been appointed new Chief Executive Officer of the Outer East Football Netball League.

Connell stepped into the role on Tuesday 24 January, replacing Aaron Bailey, who announced his resignation in October after six years in-charge.

In a statement, Connell said he could not wait to get started.

“It is a privilege to be working as part of a great ‘community’ football/netball league, in a region that I respect,” Connell said.

“I look forward to working with everyone

across the Outer East community in ensuring the competition continues to grow from strength to strength”.

Connell previously served as National Growth Channels Lead for Cricket Australia for six months after he resigned as CEO of the Victorian Amateur Football Association in April last year.

The league believe his 30 years of knowledge in the field, including his six years as Operations Manager of the Victorian Country Football League, make him the right choice to lead the competition into the future, which they consider to be “exciting times”.

“The Outer East Football Netball Competitions Limited Board believes Brett’s experi-

ence, passion and knowledge of our region will assist our competition with expansion for the viable growth of our game into the future,” the League said.

“Our strategic plan will be his focus, to ensure we continue to grow and prosper.

“Having played football at senior level, as well as holding various roles in executive positions at community organisations, Brett’s understanding of community sport in the region will be crucial in achieving this.

“We are looking at a review of all current structures, procedures and operations to make our community as effective as possible for all stakeholders, members, volunteers, players and supporters alike going forward.”

There’s a new leader and Chief Executive Officer of the Outer East Football Netball League. 283158

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Thursday, 26 January, 2023

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SPORT

Wicks fight tooth and nail BERWICK BOWLS Half of the Berwick Bowling Club was smiling and the other half were licking their wounds after four wins from eight matches in Saturday Pennant bowls.

Division 2 to 8 sides have the pressure on heading in to finals, with only three games left in the home and away season before finals, and the Division 1 side has six games left and a tough run home to the finish line.

Berwick 1 (Sunday) - Def by Whittlesea 1 7383 (away): Ladder Position: 4th In what was probably the best quality game of pennant for the season the ones fought tooth and nail but unfortunately fell agonisingly short! An away trip to Whittlesea on a Sunday isn’t an easy draw as there was a fair crowd on hand to support the Eagles. Whittlesea got the jump on Berwick early getting out to nearly 20 shots in front after the first quarter and Berwick then fought hard to ensure it didn’t increase. By the 70th end of the match, the overall score was dead level and the Wickers were right in it. A couple of ends late cost the Berwick side where some luck didn’t go their way and Whittlesea eventually snuck away with a 10-shot win. The fight and effort from both sides and the quality of bowls across all four rinks was a treat for the local crowd and it was a great game to be a part of. It’s a tough gig now though for the ones who have to win possibly four out of the last six games. They may sneak in with three from six but will rely on results if they can’t get the wins on the board.

Berwick 2 - Def Mordialloc 1 97 – 63: Ladder Position: 1st The twos are flying…43 points clear on top of the ladder and only one loss for the season against Mordialloc early in the season. The twos are reasonably settled and should be for the rest of the season with only minimal changes likely. They are working well amongst rinks and as a team overall and their position is reflected by this. Tony French’s rink set the day up for the big win with an 18 shots smashing of the opposition. The twos have Clayton, Coatesville and Moorabbin on their run home and need to stay focused on the task and not look too far ahead as the three sides they come up against are all capable of an upset.

Geoff Dawson was part of a big win by Berwick over Mordialloc in Div 2 Pennant on Saturday.

267271 Picture: ROB CAREW Berwick 3 - Def by Ferntree Gully 74 – 95: Ladder Position: 8th Ferntree Gully away is a tough ask for any club with a very quick, old, synthetic green running 17 seconds and it can be a very hard challenge to conquer. The development side found that out first hand and will gain valuable experience from their loss on the weekend. They are still showing a lot of fight and all players are enjoying their opportunity to play at a very good standard of bowls in Div 2. The threes have Keysborough, Narre Warren and Burden Park left to play and are itching for another win. Could it be Keysy this week at home? I’m saying yes, the threes for a big win this week Berwick 4 - Def Pakenham 2 80 – 76: Ladder Position: 2nd What a fantastic win by the fours over top placed Pakenham on the weekend. The fours have been a settled side for a while now and it’s starting to show with some very consistent results. Pakenham have been the yardstick so far this season and the weekend was always going to be a tough ask. The win by Carsten Jensen’s rink including Bob Gladman, Sue Balkwell and Mike Hodges by seven shots proved to be the

difference, with a draw, a one-shot loss and a two-shot loss across the other three rinks. It proves the theory that keeping rinks close, losing ends by minimal shots, and not playing the hero shots keeps your whole side in the game and an opportunity for one rink to do the work for the win.

Berwick 5 - Def Dandy Club 80 – 70: Ladder Position: 3th Two big rink wins by Keith Dargie and Paul Hunt got the fives over the line after a shock loss the previous week. They needed it to keep their top two hopes alive and a home final.

Dandy Club are on the up and a formidable opponent at the best of times so to get the win away from home is a fantastic win after the loss last week. The fives have two home games now with Narre Warren this week who sit on the top of the ladder, then against Burden Park who sit fourth, so they’ve got a great opportunity now with two home wins to earn themselves a top two finish. We’re backing an upset this week and a big win the following.

Berwick 6 - Def Carrum 2 98 – 59: Ladder Position: 2nd The sixes are back on track without the Steere’s

leading the way and now sit only four points behind ladder leaders Dandy Club. They’ve got three very winnable games coming up on their way to finals and even though two of them are away, we don’t see them dropping one from here to finals. The weekend saw a clean sweep against a struggling Carrum who also had one of our members fill in for them. They are looking good and with the Steere’s back in a week, there’ll be a couple of minimal changes.

Berwick 7 - Def by Dandy Club 43 – 63: Ladder Position: 1st This was an unexpected loss for the sevens on the weekend to sixth-placed Dandy Club. The game was played at Burden Park on grass, so no excuses and the sevens can put this one down to just a bad day we think. Going forward, they should win their last three based on ladder positions and as we settle the sides going to finals they’ll gain some confidence in the remaining home and away games. They managed two points for the day and remain 13 points clear.

Berwick 8 - Def by Coatesville 52 – 59: Ladder Position: 5th The eights came agonisingly close this week to third-placed Coatesville in a cracker of a game under the roof at Berwick. Ron McGrath and Barry Richards rinks did their part with a sixshot win and a one-shot win respectively but unfortunately Phil Giles came across a stacked rink and went down by 14 which was just not enough for the eights to hold the win. Now a game behind fourth place, we think the eights will need to win at least two of the last three - if not all three - to sneak back in to the four. They are capable and we’ll sit tight and see how it finishes up.

Three rounds to play for Div 2 to 8 and many within reach of finals or pretty close!

Selectors will be keen to settle sides with only minimal changes so consistency is key and now is not the time to be out of form.

Hit the track and work hard to ensure they aren’t looking at your form.

Go Berwick and let’s look forward to some great success in the coming weeks.

-John Rich

Magical 300 milestone for HSD stalwart Hamilton

By Jonty Ralphsmith Heinz Southern Districts stalwart Glenn Hamilton brought up senior game 300 in the Cobras’ First XI game on Saturday against Doveton.

At his prime, Hamilton was a right-arm opening bowler whose seamers would trouble the very best, and his batting has developed in recent years, making him a handy all-rounder. For the second season in 202223, Hamilton has changed it up though, trying his hand at some offies, which he did in the milestone match against the Doves.

Hamilton sent down six overs, picking up 1/12 on Saturday, his fifth First XI game of the season. A life member, Hamilton brought up the milestone 27 years after his first senior match and has held various roles at HSD in that time.

In particular, president Andy Dandridge highlighted his importance in keeping life members engaged at KM Reedy Reserve.

“A lot of clubs’ older guys lose their identity at the club as new guys come through,” Dandridge explained.“But Glenn has been really important at being a conduit between the old and the new which ensures the new generation come through without losing touch of what came before them.”

Hamilton came second in the Gartside Medal in 2004/05, a year HSD won the Turf 1 premiership, while he also was part of the club’s 2010-11 Turf 2 winning XI, before leading HSD to a Turf 7 premiership in 2017-18 and a Turf 5 premiership in 2018-19.

In leading those premiership sides, the teacher by trade has helped develop several players who are actively involved at HSD, including key First XI contributors Ryan Patterson, Jackson Philpin and Jett Kearney. To his name, he has 4242 runs, including a century, and 18 50s, and 475 wickets. berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

Hamilton and his family have become synonymous with HSD.

Glenn Hamilton brought up 300 on the weekend. 316641

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Across four separate decades, Hamilton has given his all for the club.

Thursday, 26 January, 2023

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Thursday, 26 January, 2023

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