News - Berwick Star News - 18th May 2023

NOSSAL HIGH SCHOOL - BERWICK

A co-educational, academically selective government school for highly able students in Years 9-12

Unique Opportunities. Exceptional Futures.

As one of only four Victorian Selective Entry High Schools, we offer a broad range of curricular and co-curricular experiences and programs, strongly influenced by the students themselves who have an active and authentic voice in the running of the school. We offer significant sporting, creative, performing, musical, community,cultural, social, and leadership opportunities to our students alongside a comprehensive academic study program.

Visitors are welcome to attend school tours with the Principal, and information evenings are available throughout the year. We invite you to visit us.

Our 12-page Education Week Wrap - including Catholic Education Week has plenty of options to suit any learner. Open up and take a look! Pictured: Nossal High School namesake Sir Gustav Nossal and his students.

FOCUS ON … EDUCATION WEEK Keeping our minds active

By Minister for Education, Natalie Hutchins

Welcome to Education Week 2023, our annual celebration of education, and a chance to show off our brilliant government schools across Victoria.

Education Week is between 14 May and 20 May. This year’s theme is ‘Active Learners: Move, Make, Motivate’ and it highlights some of the amazing ways students can learn through physical activity, hands-on learning and student voice.

Being active isn’t just about getting outdoors and looking after our physical healthit’s about keeping our minds alive and active with imagination.

At our schools that could mean getting involved and learning new skills through art, science, technology, student leadership, and even by being connected to your community.

As the Minister for Education I want to make sure that every student feels strong and confident so they can be an active learner.

I’m really proud of the work that’s happening to support students including reforms to disability inclusion, mental health support and vocational education in schools.

As part of this, I want to thank our teachers, principals, education support staff and everyone in the local community who together make our schools a great place to learn.

I hope all Victorian government school students get involved in some of the great excursions, incursions and online events hosted by leading culture, sport and education organisations.

From virtual storytimes to footy and coding workshops, there’s something on offer for all year levels, and some professional learning for teachers too.

To find more about the free events and activities that your school can participate in visit vic.gov.au/education-week

However you choose to celebrate EducationWeek this year, I hope you have a fantastic week!

Help your child move into Prep with confidence

Guiding your child from their early years into Primary School is a journey filled with learning and growth. The initial leap into school life is a significant milestone that can sometimes bring uncertainties. However, our faith-filled community at Heritage College is here to support you every step of the way.

To ease the transition, Heritage College is proud to present our ‘Step into Prep’ program. This Christ-centered initiative offers an informative session where families can engage with our Prep teachers, ask questions, and find answers, all within the context of our Christian ethos.

The first year of Primary School at Heritage College is a time of abundant learning, where the seeds of academic, social, and emotional growth are sown in the fertile ground of Christian values. During Prep, children build confidence and learn to live out their faith as they develop literacy and numeracy skills through an engaging curriculum. Our educators provide a nurturing environment, embodying the love of Christ in their teaching, and introducing students to the arts, music, and languages. Our Prep students are encouraged to interact with the broader campus community, fostering a spirit of unity and mutual respect through the ‘buddies’ program and participation in other on-campus events.

As a significant part of the ‘Step into Prep’ program, Orientation Days are conducted throughout Semester 2. These days provide incoming Prep students the opportunity to explore the classrooms, meet their future teachers and classmates, and familiarise themselves with learning areas and activities

Help

in a supportive environment.

with confidence.

This helps ensure that when the day comes to start Prep, the transition is less of a leap and more of a step forward in their spiri-

Prep 2024

tual and educational journey.

Expressions of Interest for Prep 2024 are open for Officer and Narre Warren South campuses. To find out more, visit heritage-

college.vic.edu.au/prep

Heritage College, two Campus locations, Starling Road, Officer and Centre Road, Narre Warren.

Minister for Education, Natalie Hutchins.

Aim for trust at Harkaway

Harkaway Primary School

Relationship, Relevance, Rigour

We’ve been tucked away in Harkaway since 1876. Over that time we’ve worked out that quality learning takes time. Trust takes time too.

“We take the time to know and value every student. We work out what they know, understand and can do. Then we lead each student into what they’re ready to learn next.”

Experts at Learning

When we teach our children how to be experts with their own learning and trust them to put that learning into action, they see opportuni-

ties to flourish all around, no matter what!

The Three ‘Rs’ of Learning

The ‘Three Rs’ at Harkaway are: Relationship, Relevance and Rigour. This results in high interest from our learners and high expectations from our teachers. This informs the way we curate Literacy and Numeracy skill development as well as our programme of inquiry.

School Tours

School tours are very welcome. We would love to share what it means to be a Harkaway Learner with you. The best way to do that is to see us in action. Every day is an open day for us. Give us a call and book in a tour.

Changes needed in university teacher training

Universities need to make a fundamental change in how they educate teachers to meet the needs of autistic children.

Australian universities need to get on the same page in preparing teachers to meet the needs of autistic students or risk more teachers leaving the profession and failing generations of autistic children.

New research has shown Australian universities are failing to prepare teachers and post graduate educators to meet the needs of burgeoning numbers of autistic students in Australian classrooms.

Senior lecturer and education researcher from Charles Sturt University Dr Rahul Ganguly says educating students on the autism spectrum is arguably the most challenging task confronting schools worldwide.

From 2015 to 2018, rates of autism have increased by an estimated 25 per cent.

“Highly individualised and idiosyncratic personality traits, manifestation of irregular and occasionally even advanced skills that accompany diagnoses of autism, and a dramatic increase in the autism prevalence rates co-exist with an increased need for schools, specifically teachers, to deliver empirically supported practices,” Dr Ganguly says.

“However, the reality is that many Australian teachers are not prepared to deal with the diverse needs of students on the autism spectrum or the extreme responsibilities that come with being an inclusive education teacher.”

He says part out of the fallout from that mismatch are high levels of teacher attrition (75 per cent every 10 years), with just 30 per cent intending to stay in the profession until retirement.

“With so many teachers leaving the profession, many students on the spectrum are being taught by less experienced teachers year after year,” Dr Ganguly says.

“Its little wonder that research shows that students on the autism spectrum have the worst educational outcomes of any students with a disability.”

In Australia, there is no uniform requirement for teacher education programs to offer training in autism.

“Our research suggests that most do not incorporate direct instruction on autism-specific EBP,” Dr Ganguly says.

“Given the plethora of untested interventions in the field of autism, having a less experienced teaching force does not bode well for students with autism.”

Dr Ganguly says the solution lies in providing consistent education for teachers in the use of scientific methods and evidence-based practices (EBP).

“Instead, what we have found is that the importance of training educators with autismrelated disability-specific knowledge actually runs contrary to Initial Teacher Education (ITE) Programs in Australia,” he says.

Universities need to make a fundamental change in how they educate teachers to meet the needs of autistic children.

“These programs have given preference to noncategorical and cross-categorical approaches in the belief that generically trained teachers with occasional in-service training can effectively teach children on the autism spectrum.

“Even in our research on postgraduate courses in Australia, we found that many postgraduate courses in special and inclusive education do not consistently cover evidencebased practices.

“We also found a great variation in the nature of the postgraduate programs.

“At a time when there is an increased need for teachers with specialised training to teach and lead teaching of students with ASC and related disorders, Initial Teacher Education and Postgraduate programs in Australia are moving away from such specialised emphases.”

Give Harkaway Primary School a call and book in a tour.

FOCUS ON … EDUCATION WEEK

Our values

Active learners: Move, make and motivate

What a wonderful theme for this year’s Education Week in all Victorian Schools. The theme encapsulates a celebration of physical activity, hands-on learning and student voice in education. It has been a tough three years and there are still significant challenges ahead. That said, we are all looking forward with hope and enthusiasm - the theme speaks to so much that goes on within our school and will continue to do so.

It is no surprise that during the pandemic, for some children, their involvement in physical activity was reduced. The proliferation of the use of digital devices, for all their worth, hasn’t helped either. I am proud to say that our school has a long and rich tradition of providing a diverse and challenging outdoor education program for all students. Sport and physical education are but two elements of this program. Our award-winning sensory garden and community garden provide wonderful opportunities for our students to engage with nature in their learning.

Hands-on learning covers many areas of the curriculum in our school - be that in the practical activities associated with our numeracy and literacy programs or our radio program and performing and visual arts programs to name but a few.

Student voice, which we prefer to refer to as student agency at Berwick Lodge has been a central focus of ours for many years. This began with the implementation of student Learning Maps, the purpose of which was to enable students to identify their best learning styles and tools. From this they developed their own learning goals and so things flowed.

As we move through 2023, our thirty fourth as a school, we celebrate the journey to today and the legacy our students are creating for those that follow with great pride.

Henry Grossek, Principal Berwick Lodge Primary School

An exciting change is happening at Hallam Senior College. The College has begun the process of being reorganised and expanded to cater for the growing demand in Melbourne’s south-east and provide families with a quality local school for their entire secondary schooling journey. The school has been renamed Hallam Secondary College and will progressively move to a Year 7-12 school over the next three years.

Through our Values (Achievement, Care and Equity) we will ensure every student learns and achieves with the knowledge, skills and dispositions for lifelong learning while assisting them to be ready to take their place as positive contributors to their local and global community. Everything we do is focused on identifying and maximising individual potential, through the use of the very best tried and tested teaching and learning practice within a supportive and caring environment.

Our mission is to provide a comprehensive and guaranteed high quality education program that ensures ‘Success for All’.

Our aim is to create a school which is:

· a true learning community

· a place students wish to attend, staff want to work and parents feel welcome · fulfilling student potential and, · preparing students for life beyond school

As a small to medium size secondary school we have the advantage of being able to know every learner as an individual.

Despite being a smaller secondary the new school will have an extensive range of Senior Pathways available to our students including VCE (both traditional Academic and the new Vocational Major), the highly regarded Sports Academy in Years 10 to 12 and access to the largest VET provision of any school in the Region.

Hallam Secondary College has a reputation for challenging students to be involved in a range of activities which will help shape them as a learner and active community member.

A multiple pathway approach provides opportunities for all students. Whatever the next step, students finishing at Hallam Secondary College will have formed a clear sense of what they want to achieve and the pathway to this outcome. Students work closely with the staff, professional course advisors and experts from industry to shape their choices.

Staff are committed to student success. The quality of our teaching and support staff is excellent, making a significant difference to student outcomes. Targeted enhancement programs across the Academy structure assists students to reach their potential.

Appreciating and embracing different backgrounds, cultures and identities is built into our school curriculum and celebrated through specific community events.

Our College has a reputation for challenging students to be involved in a range of activities which help shape them as a learner and active community member.We expect our students to work hard, be involved in the wide range of extra curricula activities and be active members of the local community.

SCHOOL OF EXCELLENCE

• Award winning school in Robotics, Performing Arts, and Community & Sensory Gardens

• Lead School - Respectful Relationships

• Innovative STEM program, including Augmented Reality, Coding & Robotics

• Radio Program & Film Making

• Before & After School Care Programs Available

• Out of Zone Enrolments Welcome

9709 6700

Berwick.lodge.ps@education.vic.gov.au www.berwicklodgeps.vic.edu.au

Through our Values (Achievement, Care and Equity) we will ensure every student learns and achieves, to equip them with the knowledge, skills and dispositions for lifelong learning and be ready to take their place as positive contributors to their local and global community. Everything we do is focused on identifying and maximising individual potential through the use of the very best tried and tested teaching and learning practice within a supportive and caring environment.

Book online or call:

Over the next 4 years Hallam Senior College will transition to a Year 7-12 school to meet the growing enrolment demand in Melbourne’s south-east and give the families of the Hallam community the certainty they have a quality local school for their entire secondary schooling journey.

The new Hallam Secondary College is committed to the delivery of a comprehensive and high quality education program that ensures ‘Success for all’.

The new College will build on its current strengths at senior level in vocational education and its Sports Academy to provide a strong offering of academic programs for its student cohort. 9703 1266

Finding balance at Berwick

Haileybury’s Berwick campus combines VCE success with inspiring newfound interests.

Whether it’s beekeeping or taking to the stage or the athletics track, there is always something for students at Haileybury’s Berwick campus to explore and get involved in.

The Berwick campus prides itself on combining a broad curriculum and outstanding academic results with opportunities for students from ELC through to Year 12 to discover sport, the arts, entrepreneurship and social justice.

Berwick’s most recent VCE results saw students achieve a median ATAR of 95.6 and 11 students achieved a 99+ ATAR, placing them in the top 1 per cent of students in the state. In addition,28girlsand36boysattainedstudyscores above 40, with many students achieving perfect study scores of 50 in subjects including English, Further Mathematics and Sociology. Peter Ford, Head of Senior School (Berwick) says the outstandingVCE results are due to a‘positive learning culture’ and Haileybury’s‘brilliant’ teachers.

“We have a team of highly professional, committed educators across all academic disciplines. Students benefit from quality teaching and our small class sizes foster strong relationships between staff and students,” he says.

“We set very high expectations and provide a high level of support so each student can achieve their personal best.

Last year, Haileybury introduced academic coaches for VCE students - high-performing former Haileybury students who provide subject specific advice and support on how to manage time, study plans and prepare for SACs and exams.

“We also have a strong focus on pastoral care - students are well known to each other and to staff. There is a strong sense of connection and a community vibe that everyone who visits our campus comments on,” says Mr Ford.

Haileybury’s Berwick campus combines VCE success with inspiring newfound interests.

CRTs need extra support

According to Media Centre for Education Research Australia, on average a child will spend 8percent,oroneyearoftheireducationtaught by a Casual Relief Teacher (CRT), but the essential demographic is experiencing a lack of support.

In a recent article titled “An Exploration of the Experiences of Substitute Teachers: A Systematic Review” several Australian universities researched recurring themes experienced by substitute teachers.

Lead author from Monash University, Professor Andrea Reupert explained the casual teaching cohort is an “important component in the teaching workforce,” yet described their working conditions and experiences as worrying.

Professor Reupert said this has been exacerbated by a lack of targeted support and this latest research dives into better understanding their requirements and will assist in developing policies and practices to improve conditions

They found casual teachers experience stress, anxiety and lower levels of job satisfaction when compared to full time teachers.

“Around the world, we are seeing teacher shortages as more and more people move away from the profession – discussions about teacher shortages can’t just focus on the permanent workforce. We need to look wider,” Professor Reupert said

The research discovered many substitute teachers have concerns over lack of authority, future job security, difficulty in building connections in the workplace and a lack of access to professional development.

Co-author, Professor Michele Simons said that for teachers to effectively undertake their

work they need the right resources.

“This review has found that the temporary nature of their employment means that professional development opportunities and mentoring that are integral to developing practice are inaccessible for these teachers,” Professor Simons said.

Enrolling for 2024 and 2025

“They need a proper induction into the school, and they need access to professional learning and mentoring.”

The paper also found a disparity in voicing their opinion on school decision making processes, leaving them feeling undervalued and with a feeling of marginalisation in schools

completion of their final exams but

To find out more and to apply please visit our website or use the QR Code.

they aren’t familiar with.

The research team also found that schools with higher suspension rates and lower average student achievements were less likely to find substitute teachers,with student behaviour and lack of administrative support from the school big contributing factors.

We encourage every student to pursue excellence in all endeavours and aim to ensure every student achieves their best potential so they are ready - not just for the

for life!

Calling on more support for substitute teachers.

Tips for teaching children to use scissors safely

Teaching a little one to use scissors seems to inspire fear in a lot of parents, however, a good sturdy pair of scissors with safety blades means that even a toddler can handle a pair of scissors and an adult’s blood pressure can remain stable!

“There seems to be a lot of concern about when is the ‘best’ time to introduce scissor skills to a child’s crafty repertoire,” says leading craft expert, Shannon Wong-Nizic, from OhCreativeDay.

Here are Shannon’s top tips for parents looking to teach their young child how to cut safely and effectively:

Open-shut them - The first skill to learn is opening and closing the scissors. This is when a spring-assisted pair of scissors is a good choice. Around the age of two, a child will often open the scissors with both hands. At this stage of development, they aren’t ready to begin cutting paper. Cutting playdough is a great way to encourage strengthening hands and growing accustomed to the open/close nature of using scissors.

Thumbs up - From the start, it’s important to remind children of the ‘thumbs up’ position while holding scissors. The thumb is placed in the smaller hole and the fingernail must face the ceiling. Draw a smiley face on a child’s thumbnail when they are first learning to hold scissors, making sure that the smile is facing the ceiling at all times when cutting.

Snip snip - Once opening and closing the scissors has been mastered, kids can move onto practising snipping paper. They are not moving the paper forward as they cut, simply snipping.

Cut and hold - Around the age of three, children can begin moving scissors forward along paper to cut. After this skill is acquired, children begin also using their non-dominant hand to hold the paper and move it to allow cutting with the dominant hand. Children at this stage can begin to cut along straight lines,

with varying accuracy.

Around the bend - From straight lines, children then move to curved lines. From lines, they then move onto basic shapes. By about the age of five, children can begin to cut more complex shapes with increased accuracy.

The right tools for the job - When it comes

to scissor skills, having a top-quality pair of scissors is a must. Shannon learnt the hard way with her firstborn when she attempted to introduce scissors with her, using cheap scissors that caused much toddler angst. There is nothing worse than a frustrated toddler bearing scissors!

Shannon Wong-Nizic is a teacher, mum of three and avid crafter. An enthusiastic fan of pom poms, PVA and paint, she runs popular blog and online parenting resource dedicated to all things creative, https://ohcreativeday. com/ and has over 30,000 followers on Instagram.

Working together to defuse, support angry teenagers

How do you cope if your teen becomes aggressive or even violent towards you?

It is common to keep this kind of abuse behind closed doors and not confide in anyone. Many parents feel that they have failed to control their child, or that they are responsible for the behaviour in some way. In addition, they may not know where to turn.

However, any kind of aggression can be stressful, and can cause an atmosphere of tension and fear for the entire family, not to mention the possibility of physical harm if their teen becomes violent.

No parent should feel obliged to put up with an unruly teen, and as with any type of domestic abuse, help and support is available. There are a number of techniques and tips that you might find helpful.

DEFUSING HEATED ARGUMENTS

It’s useful to remember that your own behaviour can improve or worsen an aggressive situation, so it’s important to be a good role model for your teen.

With that in mind, it is worth trying to maintain a calm and peaceful presence. You need to be strong without being threatening. Remember that your body language, as well as what you say and how you say it, should also reflect this. Avoid staring them in the eye, and give them personal space. Allow them the opportunity to express their point of view, then respond in a reasoned way.

If an argument becomes very heated, take a deep breath, hold it for a few seconds and then exhale. Repeat five times. This technique is very useful in intense situations.

If your teen is becoming aggressive during arguments, suggest this technique to them when they’re calm, so they too have a way of controlling their anger.

If an argument feels out of control, you can also try explaining to them that you are going to walk away, and that you’ll come back again in half an hour. Given the chance to reflect and calm down, you and your teen will both be more reasonable when you resume your discussion.

As with toddlers, if you give in to teenagers because their shouting and screaming intimidates or baffles you, you are in effect encouraging them to repeat the unreasonable behaviour as a way of getting what they want.

If very heated arguments happen frequently, it may be worth suggesting counselling to your teen. They’ll benefit from talking to someone new and unbiased, someone who isn’t in their family and who won’t judge them. Remember they may not know how to handle their anger, and this can leave them frustrated and even frightened. Some guidance from an outsider can be very helpful.

DEALING WITH VIOLENT BEHAVIOUR

Sometimes, teen aggression can turn into violence. If they lash out at you, or someone or something else, put safety first. Let your teenager know that violence is unacceptable and you will walk away from them until they’ve calmed down. If leaving the room or house isn’t helping, call the police — after all, if you feel threatened or scared, then you have the right to protect yourself.

GOOD ADVICE

GIVE THEM SPACE: Once they have calmed down, you may want to talk to them about what has happened and suggest that they let you find them some help.

BE CLEAR: Teenagers need to know that you will stand by the boundaries you set. They need to know that any kind of violence is unacceptable.

TALKTOTHEIR SCHOOL: Find out if their

aggressive behaviour is happening there as well. Some schools offer counselling.

ARRANGE COUNSELLING: If your teen admits they have a problem and is willing to get help, book an appointment with a counsellor or psychologist as soon as possible.

Sources:

Raising Children Network, Women’s and Children’s Health Network

Mum, teacher and craft expert Shannon Wong-Nizic shares her tips for teaching kids scissor skills. (Supplied)

Teens are known for their moody behaviour, but it’s important to recognise when lines are crossed.

(iStock)

Meeting their point of need

Don Bosco Catholic Primary School is privileged to be the first school built within Our Lady Help of Christians Parish. We are blessed in our Catholic community where the inherent dignity of each member is nurtured, and each person’s faith life is celebrated. We have built a strong relationship with our parish community and the parish based Sacramental program supports this.

Student learning is designed to target learners at their point of need across all areas. Our experienced teaching team works collaboratively to build professional learning relationships with students and their families, inviting parents into the learning journey in a variety of ways. We place a strong focus on personal and social wellbeing, literacy and numeracy; ensuring that our teachers are trained in researched based approaches from phonics through to self and social awareness.

This year we have redesigned student leadership to give our students purposeful opportunities to become actively involved in the life of the school. Our student representative council is led by our school captains who meet weekly with the principal. Buddies support the transition into school of our Foundation students and the Year Sixes work in leadership teams to build student relationships, learn new skills and reach out to the wider community with Mini Vinnies.

We are excited to continue refurbishments to improve learning environments and play spaces for our students and could not do so without the efforts of both our Parents and Friends and School Advisory Committees. We invite you to call our school office for a tour (03) 9704 7255.

Teaching children to become sustainable students

Sustainability is a focus of many schools these days, with students often encouraged to engage in practices such as packing ‘nude’ lunches, recycling and switching off lights when not in use.

How can parents help encourage their kids to be sustainable students?

Here are eight tips from Sustainability

Victoria:

1. Lunches - get the kids to make their own lunch and use containers suited to nude food, eliminating the need for disposable wrapping. If you do need to wrap, reusable beeswax wraps can be used. Find out about them online or do a course on making them at your local neighborhood house or community arts centre.

2. Make your own snacks - despite what they say, many kids have plenty of time on their hands. Teach them to make their own muesli bars and other snacks. Be patient, it’s a great life skill. They will learn to be

more independent and have fun doing it!

3. Get more value - use the ‘Love Food Hate Waste’ website to get great recipes to use last night’s leftovers in exciting ways for school (and work) lunches.

4. Use what you’ve got - save money by digging out pens, pencils and other consumables from drawers, cupboards and bags, rather than buying new ones. Many stationery makers also have a range of notebooks made from recycled paper.

5. Textbooks and uniforms - most schools have secondhand book and uniform shops, but your local op shop is also worth trying. Many high school English and literature books are available for free on Kindle. For other subjects, ask teachers what the difference is with this year’s version of a textbook compared with last year’s, as the older edition may still be suitable.

6. Walking or riding to school is a great way to stay fit. It saves fuel and reduces vehi-

cle pollution and traffic jams at the school gate. Otherwise, park a short distance from the school and walk with the kids and use it as an opportunity to teach road rules. Catching the bus may also be an option.

7. Buying a desk, bookcase or filing cabinet? Second-hand office furniture shops often have very modern goods at a much better price than new and they will last. It is also worth checking out Facebook Marketplace for some great quality bargains.

8. Ask your school to join the ResourceSmart Schools program offered by Sustainability Victoria. Supporting schools within the state to embed sustainability measures across the school facilities, community and curriculum, once a school joins the program, it will have access to an online portal to learn and practice ways of integrating sustainability while also saving resources and money for the school.

Don Bosco Catholic Primary School invite you to call their school office for a tour.

Visit a Catholic school and see the difference

Catholic schools across Gippsland and Melbourne’s outer south east will open their doors to the community to celebrate Catholic Education Week 2023 from 19 May to 26 May.

This is a chance for everyone to witness the vibrant faith and learning environments in their local Catholic Schools with Open Days, activities and events planned.

Mr Paul Velten, Director of Catholic Education in the Diocese of Sale, said Catholic Education Week was an opportunity to celebrate the wonderful achievements of Catholic schools and to highlight the inspiring activities taking place in Catholic schools every day.

“This year’s theme is, Catholic SchoolsPlaces of Encounter. ‘Let the Words You Speak Always Be Full of Grace,’ based on the Bible

Scripture, Colossians 4:6.

“This message reflects our commitment to promoting kindness, respect, and compassion in our schools and communities. Catholic schools are more than just buildings where students come to learn. They are Places of Encounter where students can grow academically, spiritually and personally.”

“The ‘Speak with Grace‘ theme aims to encourage students and school communities to use their words to build up others, to speak out against injustice, and to spread love and hope in the world.“

The official launch of Catholic Education Week will take place with a Leadership Mass and Dinner on Friday 19 May in Traralgon. During the evening several awards will be pre-

sented including the ‘Spirit of Catholic Education Awards.’ These important awards are peer-nominated and acknowledge staff who are making an outstanding contribution to the life of their school community.

Mr Velten said many things have changed in education in recent years and over decades but the dedication of Catholic teachers and staff focused on nurturing each child’s potential and to inspire faith and inspire learning remains at the core.’’

“Our Catholic schools strive to be welcoming, supportive and inclusive places where children can thrive.”

Schools across the Diocese extend an invitation to families and members of the community to visit an Open Day or event at a Catholic

school in their local area and see the Catholic education difference.

The Diocese of Sale covers 38 Catholic primary schools and seven Catholic secondary schools educating almost 20,000 students and employing more than 3,000 staff. The Diocese spans a geographic area from Melbourne’s outer south east suburbs from Narre Warren and Cranbourne, to Wonthaggi and Philip Island in the south, and right throughout Gippsland to Orbost in the east.

For tours and enrolment information, contact a Catholic school in your local area or go to:

www.doscel.catholic.edu.au/about-us/ find-a-school

Mary MacKillop Primary School, Narre Warren South.

St Francis Xavier College, Berwick and Beaconsfield.

St Catherine’s Primary School, Berwick.

St Michael’s Primary School,Berwick.

Trinity Catholic Primary School, Narre Warren South.

A pathway for every child

St Francis Xavier College is committed to providing a pathway for every child. As part of this, we have offered VET course options to our students for almost 20 years. Vocational education offers students additional pathways to their education and career goals, with VET subjects an excellent avenue to University, TAFE or employment. Students can add value to their schooling by completing nationally recognised VET programs.

Why choose VET? Choosing to complete vocational studies benefits students by combining general studies with skill development in chosen areas. Our vocational programs help students to explore career pathways in a more practical manner, also allowing them to undertake learning in the workplace in some cases. VET certificates do not only contribute towards the VCE or VCE VM, but are nationally recognised qualifications that equip students for work and further study.

We aim to ensure that our students’ learning experiences are both enriching and enjoyable. We expect that all our VET students will successfully complete their chosen course or qualification.

Our vocational education teachers and trainers have industry backgrounds in the areas they train. This makes them ideally suited to help each VET student use their learned skills to transition from school to further education, training or employment.

We offer a number of VET certificate options for students as part of our VCE program. Students can learn vocational skills and gain VET qualifications in a variety of industries and sectors. Contact the College for further Information 9707 3111.

It’s never too early to teach children to manage money

With the cost of living increasing, now is a better time than ever to teach children about the importance of saving money effectively. With that in mind, financial experts from money.co.uk have compiled a list of their top ten tips for teaching your children about money.

Start with the basics of money and finance

How you introduce money to your children will partly depend on their age. A good place to start is getting children comfortable handling cash and coins. Explain to them how money is used to buy things and that it must be earned before it can be spent.

Speak openly about small financial decisions

Start getting your child involved with minor financial decisions, such as which

brands and items to buy when shopping. This way your child is able to understand the decisions you make while also feeling in control of certain financial choices.

Older children could also help with budgeting while shopping if you ask them to keep a running total of the items you buy. Not only will this help their maths skills, but it can also help them to understand how small items can still add up in price and not everything is affordable on a budget.

Set a good example with your own finances

There are no two ways about it, children learn money habits from their parents. Showing them small activities, such as checking the receipt after your shop or putting money into savings can start developing positive habits from a young age.

Encourage your child to ask questions without repercussion in this setting. While

you might not necessarily have all the answers, opening up a dialogue is a healthy way for your child to learn more about finance.

Use pocket money as an incentive for small tasks

Using pocket money as an incentive to do chores around the house not only helps you, but it also helps your child learn more about the value of money and what it takes to earn it. Creating a simple plan with a set amount of money for different tasks, along with caps per week or month, is a great way to help your child start understanding where money comes from.

The relationship between work and money, household chores and pocket money is also a great opportunity to show children how to save. If your child has shown interest in a more expensive purchase, you could set them up with an old-fashioned piggy bank

where they can ‘deposit’ their earnings or create a chart for them to fill out so they can track how much money they have.

James Andrews from money.co.uk encourages parents to teach children how to handle money from a young age.

“Creating an environment where you can speak more openly with your children about financial decisions is key to them gaining an understanding of the value of money,” Mr Andrews says.

“It’s important to make sure your lessons are age-appropriate and that you continue to involve and teach your children about money as they grow - a healthy relationship with finances starts at a young age, and children learn most of their habits from their parents.” Originally published on money.co.uk/.

Meet the Principal

Leigh Johnson

MSchLrshp, MEd (International Baccalaureate)

Principal

At Harkaway Primary School, we are dedicated to shaping the future of learning. Founded in 1876, we believe in empowering children to shape their world. Through allowing them to create rules and allocate resources, we provide them with the opportunity to prepare their minds and seize opportunities.

As an International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP) candidate school, we prioritize student-centered and inquiry-based learning. During school tours, we proudly showcase our philosophy in action.

We strongly recognize that parents and caregivers play a crucial role in their children’s early learning.

We view schools as partners with families, with classroom teachers being the next most influential factor. Exceptional teaching is at the core of exceptional learning. Our Harkaway Teachers are highly skilled practitioners who are committed to lifelong learning themselves.

While we cannot predict the future, at Harkaway Primary School, we are dedicated to preparing the minds of those who will shape it. We will continue our mission with unwavering determination.

HARKAWAY PRIMARY SCHOOL

65 King Rd, Harkaway VIC 3806

Phone 9707 1475 | www.harkawayps.vic.edu.au

Henry Grossek

Schools in recent years have faced immense challenges. With the approaching winter, the rise of influenza and Covid, and a shortage of teachers becoming the norm, it’s understandable to feel downcast and worried. However, despite these difficulties, there is always hope. Lately, I have been meeting with colleagues locally and statewide, and our system’s greatest strength has always been the collegiality and cooperation between government schools. This unity has remained strong, even throughout the past pandemic years.

The sense of belonging and support during tough times nurtures hope and optimism. Our system still possesses these qualities, despite occasional obstacles. In fact, I would say that the vast majority of schools are now working together instead of going it alone, even if it means sacrificing some individual benefits.

Having colleagues who understand your challenges and are in a similar position brings immeasurable benefits. Although I focus on government schools in this piece, I indirectly highlight the virtues of Berwick Lodge Primary School.

For a more personal account of our school’s strengths and achievements, please visit our website or contact us at 9709 6700 to arrange a personal tour and chat.

Treasa Barwick

Welcome to Don Bosco Catholic Primary School where each day is a gift to work alongside the students, families and staff that make up our small learning community. I am extremely proud of our students and the way in which they work with their teachers to get the most out of each day.

We provide a high-quality Catholic education and a community in which our faith is actively lived, and each persons’ story is valued and respected. Our staff work and learn together in a culture of high expectations so that our students are confident in their ability to learn.

Our whole school expectations are visible in the language we use with our students. Respect, Responsibility and Safety underpin our whole school approach to positive behaviour support and in our school community, we embrace these to ensure all feel welcome and students are ready to learn.

I invite you to book for an enrolment tour via the website on www.dbnarre.catholic.edu.au or call the office on 9704 7255 to come and see how we can support your child in their learning journey.

Annette Rome

This is my 5th year as Principal of St Margaret’s Berwick Grammar after having held leadership positions at some of Melbourne’s top independent private schools including Korowa, Wesley, MLC and Lauriston.

St Margaret’s Berwick Grammar is unique as it offers a coeducational junior school and single gender education senior schools on dedicated campuses in Berwick and Officer. This model allows us to honour everything we know about providing a great education as boys and girls learn differently as they progress through school.

Everything we do at the school is actioned through our values of: COURAGE to do the right thing, CURIOSITY to know and learn, CHARACTER to be one’s true self and RESPECT to live wisely and compassionately with others and the planet. We use these values to frame everything from HR processes to curriculum design.

While we focus on academic outcomes, we take a holistic approach to education leveraging athleticism, artistry and adventure to help students find their spark helping to grow good men and build empowered young women who know they can.

12589702-AA20-23

Hospital responds

By Eleanor Wilson

Monash Health has made significant changes to suicide safeguarding practises, in the wake of a 2019 Casey Hospital death which was deemed by the Coroner’s Court to be preventable.

On 28 April 2019, a 50-year-old man, who was a compulsory inpatient in the Berwick hospital’s mental health ward at the time, was found deceased in his hospital room, a 16 March inquest hearing heard.

In the 20 April inquest findings, Coroner Catherine Fitzgerald concluded that the man’s death was preventable, due to the presence of known ligature points in the room.

The ligature points were identified as being “ medium risk” by Monash Health during ligature point audits conducted in 2016 and 2017, but were “not prioritised” for removal, according to a statement by Monash Health program director professor David Clarke.

A third audit conducted in 2018 did not identify the wardrobe doors and hinges as ligature points, which meant the risk posed by the points was not considered after that audit.

The ligature points were not removed until two days after the man’s death, on 30 April 2019.

The court heard the man had “a significant history of mental health issues” and was diagnosed with depression, opiate and alcohol abuse and antisocial personality disorder.

He also had a previous history of psychiatric inpatient admissions in 2015, 2016 and 2017, on a background of suicidal ideation and had attempted suicide in 2016.

On 30 March 2019 he was section to the

Royal Melbourne Hospital under the Mental Health Act, after he was found “behaving erratically” on a Brunswick roof, believing that people were chasing him.

The court heard his daughter, who he lived with at the time, had noticed his mental health deteriorating in the month’s leading up to his death, noting that he was beginning to suffer from paranoia and auditory hallucinations.

He spent nine days in the Mental Health Ward of Sunshine Hospital before he was transferred to Casey Hospital on 13 April.

Upon his arrival at Casey Hospital, he was assessed as being at high risk of suicide and was initially managed with 15-minute observations by nurses and was later approved for day leave.

In the days before his death, the man was regarded by the treating psychiatrist as being “low risk” and he therefore remained in a low dependency unit.

On the morning of his death, he denied thoughts of self-harm.

He was found in his room by an enrollednurse about 7:20pm that night and was declared deceased at 8:15pm, despite resuscitation attempts in the Emergency Department.

Monash Health said “an inadequate staff mix and training for those managing ligature audits; and inadequate procedure for followup of ligature audits” was responsible for the failure to identify the ligature point risk.

In an internal review conducted after the man’s death, Monash Health concluded that the presence of a ligature point was a “main factor” contributing to his death.

Continued page 7

Cranbourne West’s Quarters Primary School held their Mothers and Special Others Picnic event on Friday 12 May. With delightful food and special gifts, the Mums and Special Others were sure spoiled!

Special visitors at school

Quarters Primary School pupils showed their love for their mothers and other loved ones, as the broader community came together to celebrate the inaugural Mothers and Special Others Picnic event on Friday 12 May.

Mums, aunties, grandmothers and significant others enjoyed the sunny conditions as families spread out picnic mats across the school grounds ahead of Mother’s Day.

Student wellbeing teacher Shilpa Sanghani said the school was “thrilled“ with the number of loved ones who attended.

“The smiles on faces confirmed that the Quarters Primary School pupils enjoyed catching up with their families and having a fun lunchtime,“ she said.

“It was a fabulous way for the QPS community to come together.“

More page 27

Program fills in the gaps

By Emily Chapman Laing

Suicide Safer Communities is working to bring a world-first artificial intelligence suicide prevention program to Casey.

CEO of the Life! Central charity and HelpNet online counselling program Drew Gormlie says it’s important to get as far ahead of community suicide triggers as possible.

Suicide Safer Communities, as part of HelpNet, is designed to “fill in the gaps“ in community resources that leave residents at risk of suicide.

In Casey, mental health is a large area of concern for many organisations and constituents.

One in 5 Casey residents suffer from severe psychological distress.

Less than half (48 per cent) of Casey locals feel safe walking in their neighbourhood after dark.

There were also 5208 domestic violence incidents reported to police from September 2021 - September 2022.

Mr Gormlie and his team are looking forward to bringing their software to their home region of Casey.

However nothing is in motion yet.

“At the City of Casey, we are committed to supporting evidence-based approaches that increase resilience, safety, and connection within our communities, as outlined in our Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2021-25,“ said City of Casey Manager Connected Communities, Sara Ball.

“Given the high rates of psychological distress experienced within our community, we monitor and welcome innovation in the mental health promotion and suicide prevention space, however we currently have no plans to use this specific technology.“

In developing their artificial intelligence software, the team wanted to have an understanding of communities before making rec-

ommendations for suicide prevention.

“You can’t mitigate against risk,“ Mr Gormlie said.

“You can’t stop health issues, economic issues, relationship issues, Covid, floods, fires, whatever it is.

“But you can create an environment where you’ve got resources so that when those negative things happen, you have what you need.“

The AI software runs many different versions and is designed for use by individuals, organisations, police, military and varying geographic regions.

The success of the software is evident in how the program improved the suicide rates of the Upper Murray community.

“They had a suicide rate that was ten times the national average,“ Mr Gormlie said.

“We delivered

144 recommendations to the Upper Murray Health Department, agencies and to the general public.

“Over the last 22 months, there hasn’t been another death.“

Mr Gormlie says the efficacy of the program comes in its ability to empower community

organisations and members to “feed change“ and “make things happen“ themselves.

Each community is different, and Mr Gormlie believes the AI software provides invaluable insight into the unique challenges facing a region.

Using the findings from surveys, the team is able to make recommendations for suicide prevention that are “more strategic“ and “informed“ than traditional approaches.

The AI software works by having members of a community fill out a 10 minute survey.

The questions are based on research findings from psychologists, which allow the program to identify whether there are issues around domestic violence, isolation, crime or lack of resources.

“The survey identifies areas that need to be strengthened so we can fill in the gaps,“ Mr Gormlie said.

The program has reached international success, being delivered in Fiji, Malaysia and the UK.

Mr Gormlie says the program has the potential to “alleviate pressure on the mental

health and clinical systems“ in Casey.

He emphasises how cost effective the AI software is in comparison to the expense of manpower it would take from psychologists to achieve the same result.

“We do the whole thing in six weeks for about 10% the price of psychologists,“ Mr Gormlie said.

“Once we know exactly what’s going on, we can make recommendations that are more strategic and save on resources in the community.

“Over a two to three year period, there’s the potential for the load on the mental health system to be be reduced by 10-20 per cent.“

Following some suicide prevention training over a decade ago, the team at Life Central realised how significant the issue was in the Casey area.

“A lot of young people were dying in Casey,“ Mr Gormlie said.

“So we started training as many people as we could, but it was too little too late.

Mr Gormlie says suicide is a symptom, not a cause.

He and Life Central’s Prevention Services Director Debra Croft decided to take action.

“We started talking about ways we could do things differently so we could address the problem more effectively,“ Mr Gormlie said.

Life! Central has been rewarded for their impressive work, receiving a Resilience Australia Award in 2022.

Suicide Safer Communities believes the responsibility for suicide prevention rests with individuals,organisations,professionalgroups and services across the community and that suicide prevention/intervention/post-vention should be provided in a coordinated, holistic and integrated way according to the needs of the individual and community.

The team is now looking at partnering with nationwide organisations to create real change across Australia.

Councils endorse Western Port protection strategy

By Corey Everitt and Cam Lucadou-Wells

Casey and Cardinia Shire councils have endorsed a strategic plan to conserve the worldsignificant but under-threatWestern Port Bay.

They have called on other levels of government to be involved in the protection of the ecologically vital marine life and wetlands.

The strategic framework was created by the Victorian National Parks Association’s campaign called ‘Act for Western Port Bay’.

The document tells of Western Port acquiring some of the worst environmental health indicators across Victoria, with declining populations of certain marine life and bird species.

It had suffered “substantial change” due to “extensive clearing” of its catchment and coastal vegetation, draining of swamplands

and urban, agricultural and industrial development.

The water quality in five out of the nine estuaries flowing into Western Port are rated as very poor by the Commissioner for Environmental Sustainability.

The bay was home to endangered species such as the Growling Grass Frog and the Southern Brown Bandicoot.

Casey chair administrator Noelene Duff is a member of the Western Port Biosphere Reserve Foundation committee which put forward the plan.

“Western Port is a unique place on the world stage,“ she told a 16 May council meeting.

“It’s the only wetland in Victoria that has been recognised by both the UN as a biosphere reserve and also as an international

RAMSAR wetland for conservation.”

The bay lacked a “cohesive and coordinated approach to way it’s being planned and managed”.

According to the document, Western Port has been subjected to inconsistent planning decisions, inadequate monitoring, poor accountability and governance.

Administrator Miguel Belmar said a “new whole-bay approach” was needed.

It required a new strategic plan, a new collaborative management partnership and a dedicated fund.

“It’s important that … Western Port is not a second-order issue but a primary issue in terms of protecting its biodiversity and its assets.”

The plan’s objectives included the need for all future industrial proposals being as-

sessed in an “open and transparent” process, Mr Belmar noted.

Administrator Cameron Boardman said the initiative was “community led”, noting the collective of groups based in towns around the bay as well as larger environmental groups such as Save Western Port.

He said there were planning implications for bayside towns due to coastal and tidal erosion issues.

On 15 May, Cardinia Shire Council also endorsed the plan.

It calls on the Victorian Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action to establish a collaboration with Traditional Owners and relevant stakeholders such as Melbourne Water.

Casey occupies 35 kilometres of the Western Port coast.

From left: Life Central CEO Drew Gormlie,Life Central Prevention Services Director Debra Croft, Victorian Emergency Management Commissioner Andrew Crisp APM and HelpNet Software Engineer Micheal Findlay.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Development plan passes

By Matthew Sims

Casey Council has approved the finalised development plan for development on the Manuka Road Precinct, allowing for future development on Green Wedge land along Manuka Road in Berwick.

Casey Council administrators passed a motion to adopt the finalised Manuka Road Development Plan during its meeting on Tuesday 16 May.

The development of the Manuka Road Precinct may provide for up to 165 new lots or dwellings to be developed across 18.78 hectares of land, bounded by Manuka Road to the west, Allan Street to the south and the Cardinia Creek Parklands to the north and east.

Planning Scheme Amendment C231 to the Casey Planning Scheme was gazetted on 20 May 2021 and resulted in the rezoning of the land to the Neighbourhood Residential Zone and the application of a Development Plan Overlay.

Casey Council has been working with Veris Town Planning and Parklea Developments to investigate future development of the Manuka Road Precinct as part of the plan.

Parklea Developments has been partnering with the owners of land surrounding Berwick’s historic Clover Cottage for residential development, proposed to be completed in four stages and provide 131 lots upon completion as part of its Hartwood proposed development.

According to Casey Council, community consultation on the draft plan occurred over seven weeks in December 2022 and January 2023, where residents were encouraged to make submissions via the council’s engagement platform Casey Conversations, as well as a drop-in session at the Berwick Leisure Centre.

Public consultation closed at 11.59pm on 29 January 2023, with council receiving a total of 86 submissions.

Following the submissions, the council has made a number of amendments to the plan, including increasing bushfire protection setbacks and clarification of drainage options for the precinct.

Casey Council received 21 public questions concerning the Manuka Road Development Plan, with 12 questions relating to residents concerns around traffic, seven concerning vegetation, flora, fauna and bushfire management and two others relating to the development plan itself.

Chair administrator Noelene Duff PSM said there were a number of safety initiatives proposed for the upcoming development, including adding turning lanes on Manuka Road and a shared use path along the eastern side of Manuka Road linking to Allan Street and Akoonah Park.

“The plan proposes to upgrade Allan Street while retaining its vehicular barrier from Cardinia Street,“ she said.

“It also proposes new right turn lanes at both entrances to the precinct, as well as a safer pedestrian crossing point in front of Berwick College.“

Administrator Miguel Belmar said the ap-

proval of the development plan was one step in the process and outlined significant constraints in the development of the precinct, including bushfire management, drainage and heritage overlays.

“There are times when constraints such as these can be impassable, but this is a development plan that has considered each of these constraints,“ he said.

“It’s a solution which may be imperfect, but it is a solution which is in keeping with the requirements of orderly planning.“

Administrator Michael Boardman said the council appreciated the thought and effort of residents who had made public submissions to the draft development plan and submitted public questions.

“All of the issues raised in the submissions, all of the issues raised in the questions are all fundamentally legitimate,“ he said.

“When a development proposal is received by council of this magnitude, of course there is going to be community concerns.“

“It certainly has engaged the community to think about how this particular development and future developments...can be treated.“

Speaking on behalf of Parklea Developments in a submission to the draft development plan, Veris Australia town planning senior associate Guillermo Cabala said the development plan was the result of years of cooperative work with the council.

“Parklea and Council have been working together for a number of years to identify, consider, assess and resolve a number of matters regarding the future development of the precinct,“ he said.

“Parklea is pleased that the planning for the precinct has reached the development plan stage...so that planning permit applications may finally progress with council pursuant to previous discussions.

“The development plan...will provide a sound, orderly and equitable basis for the future development of the precinct and enjoyment of the precinct by future residents and members of the surrounding community.“

The 18-hectare site is bounded by Allan Street and Manuka Road. 333109

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Emergency response crisis

By Emily Chapman Laing

and Matthew

Sims

Berwick MP Brad Battin has called out the Minister of Police over the Clyde North police station promised in the 2018 state election.

“One of the issues through the area is the Clyde North police station, which was committed to be open and operating by the 2018 election and then was recommitted again to be done and open by the 2022 election,” Mr Battin said.

“Now the only thing that has been done for that police station is there is a sign saying that it will be ready by 2025.

“I know that all the members that represent that area have seen growth in such numbers that most infrastructure will not keep up with it, but I think the infrastructure around ensuring we have safety should and must be put in as a priority.”

Mr Battin told State Parliament of alarming rates of car thefts and break-ins in the area, leaving residents “fearful”.

According to the Crime Statistics Agency, overall crime in Clyde North increased by 26.35 per cent from 2022 to 2023, jumping from 1146 during 2022 to 1448 recorded offences in 2023.

Particular increases included property damage (36 per cent), theft (22.6 per cent) and assault (19.4 per cent).

While overall crime in Clyde North during 2023 fell by 3.9 per cent compared to 2022 figures, property damage increased by 14.8 per cent and theft saw a 12.1 per cent rise.

“The community is starting to come together and talk about this,” Mr Battin said.

“It is not just online; they have been approaching our office now and also their local media about, when they call police, the callout times, how long it takes Victoria Police to arrive, and some of the issues with people hanging around in the street.”

Mr Battin says with roadworks delaying

response times from Cranbourne and Narre Warren police, it is crucial the ball gets rolling on increasing Clyde North’s police presence.

“We have been calling on the government to build the station for a long period of time,” Mr Battin said.

“If we had the station, we could start putting Victoria Police in there, and I think then you would actually start to see people would feel safer.”

The Victorian Government has settled on the land for the station and saysVictoria Police are working on the“scope and design” of Clyde North’s new station.

The introduction of the 24-hour Police Assistance Line (PAL) in 2017 was designed to take the pressure away from Triple Zero in non-emergency situations.

The goal was to free up the line for lifethreatening situations, ensuring police response times were as efficient as possible.

Despite this, Mr Battin says the numbers simply aren’t there in the local police forces.

A Victorian government spokesperson says the Clyde area is“well serviced” by existing police resources in the region.

“We promised we’d deliver a state-of-theart police station in Clyde North and that’s

what we will do,” they said.

“The Victorian Budget 2022-23 is delivering an additional 502 police and 50 Protective Service Officers (PSOs) over the next two years to meet the growing needs of the state, bringing more than 3,600 new police officers to our streets.

“As a part of this commitment, the Dandenong Division, which includes the Clyde North area has received an additional 225 sworn police since 2016.”

The new station will be located on the corner of Newgrange Boulevard and Matterhorn Drive.

Works continue near you and there will be transport disruptions

As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re removing 110 dangerous and congested level crossings, with 68 already gone. We’re also building the Metro Tunnel to run more trains to and from our suburbs and upgrading roads to reduce congestion and improve travel times.

Train disruptions: Buses replace trains in both directions

Cranbourne and Pakenham lines

Pakenham Line

From 8pm 19 May to 21 May

Caulfield to Westall 9.30pm to last train, 25 May

From 9.30pm 25 May to 30 May

Dandenong to Pakenham

8 to 21 JuneOn sections of the line

Road disruptions: Closed roads

Ballarto Road, Pakenham South

Cranbourne-Frankston Road, Cranbourne West

Hall Road, Cranbourne West

Evans Road, Cranbourne West

Main Street, McGregor and Racecourse roads, Pakenham

Until 8 June

BetweenHealesville-KooWeeRup and Cardinia roads

Until 26 JuneBetween Willow Glen and Ranfurlie boulevards

Until 26 June

Between CranbourneFrankston Road and Banyan Drive

Until 26 JuneBetween Hall Road and Strathlea Drive

At times in JuneAt the level crossings

The site of the new Clyde North police station. 334323

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS Berwick MP Brad Battin.

‘Voice’ for shared stories

By Sahar Foladi

A new magazine is bringing a new ‘voice’ for women’s stories and issues in the South East.

As part of the Empowering Communities grants from the Department of Justice and Community Safety Victoria, Wellsprings for Women worked vigorously to deliver the ‘Be the Voice’ magazine to the community, a project funded by the City of Casey.

The informative resource features stories on sexual assault, early and forced marriages and coercive control, supported by statistics.

Hannah Wright, co-design facilitator of the project, said creating a safe environment for important conversations and stories to “reveal themselves” is vital.

“The main things I’ve loved about the process, which is something I believe in strongly, is connecting as a group when doing the work and allowing space for stated stories.”

So, when the graphic designer suggested a magazine format, something the organisation hasn’t used in its previous projects, they became excited.

“When everyone heard that, they said that’s most perfect because we should give everyone their own voice and that’s how it came to be called, ‘Be the Voice.’

“It’s important to acknowledge this issue is

not just a migrant refugee issue. It’s an issue all over Australia,” Ms Wright said.

The magazine is largely derived from the stories of 10 women from diverse backgrounds including, Afghan and Indian.

Alia (Marzia), Araig, Fahima, Fereshtah, Lina, Mehak, Nadia, Nasira, Priyanka and Qamaria are the 10 women who met for two hours for 10 week which consisted of generating conversations, sharing stories and much

more.

The 300 copies of the magazine will be distributed all over in the community, at local agencies and at Wellsprings’ meetings and networking events while digital versions will be available for widespread use.

Chief executive officer, Dalal Smiley said with enough funding and a real demand for more hard copies, they’ll look to print more copies.

NarreWarren South MP Gary Maas said he’s proud to be part of a government that supports these programs in the community.

“Once upon a time we didn’t talk about it. Now the solutions are emanating from grassroots level and permeating through the community.

“It wasn’t that long ago that there used to be this top-down approach to put solutions through. We now know from experience that approach doesn’t work.

“We want to partner not only with local government but with the entire grassroots organisation to ensure these works continue.”

Wellsprings announced the round two funding they’ve received to take this project even further working closely with the 10 women.

Gender equality practitioner, Aviva White said they’ll hold onto the pillar of co-design for the next project and build on the skills and knowledge of the women.

“They’ll deliver supported community safety sessions on sexual assault, early and forced marriages and coercive control to their own community members.

“We might choose them to do it online or in their language. The way they’ll be delivered will be up to the women.”

Round two is a one year project kick-starting from July this year.

Legacy of loved ones live on thanks to volunteers

By Matthew Sims

The legacy and significance of one’s life is a delicate gift.

No one is more aware of this fact than Palliative Care South East companion volunteer Pam Glover, who has been instrumental in the organisation’s Sharing My Story biography program.

Ahead of National Volunteer Week (Monday 15 May to Sunday 21 May), PCSE is celebrating the value of its 50 volunteers, helping those receiving end-of-life support.

The former school teacher started volunteering in 2014 and helped launch the Sharing My Story program in 2016, which involves three or four volunteers visiting PCSE clients and allowing them to talk about their lives.

The team have a portable scanner on hand and collate the story into a full-size book.

Ms Glover said while clients often approached the program with an amount of reservation about how interesting their life story is, they were always impressed with how much they have achieved.

“They get a lot of validation,“ she said.

“They don’t want to be forgotten.

“It’s a wonderful process to go through.“

334687

Ms Glover said she had completed more than 75 biographies since starting the program.

“I feel very humbled,“ she said.

“It is a privilege.

“I learn something every time.“

Ms Glover said each client has an “amazing experience“ to share.

“I feel quite honoured to be part of their lives,“ she said.

“I would encourage anyone who has got the time to volunteer in some way.“

Another PCSE volunteer who has dedicated a number of years to supporting those in palliative care with a life-limiting illness is Hampton Park’s Gwen Clough.

Twice widowed, the 84-year-old has a deep understanding of the grief others feel when they are losing a loved one to a terminal disease.

As a volunteer companion, Ms Clough takes clients shopping, to medical appointments, for walks or coffee and has held the hands of grieving widows and sat at the bedsides of the elderly as they share their anger and fears.

Berwick’s Josie Mastroianni is also a volunteer companion to Casey residents with a life-limiting or terminal illness.

For the past seven years, she has provided companionship to vulnerable clients who are lonely or isolated, visiting clients weekly and providing them with the opportunity to go for a coffee, get help with their shopping or taking some time out to talk.

Ms Mastroianni’s Italian heritage and bi-

lingual skills enable her to support a number of elderly clients who originally immigrated from Italy in the post-War years.

PCSE community liaison officer Rochelle Dullard said PCSE’s volunteers are “kind, compassionate and supportive“ to clients in their time of need.

“These people are willing to support others at the end of life,“ she said.

“I feel very fortunate to be able to be a part of a program with such volunteers.“

Ms Dullard said another aspect to be celebrated is how well the volunteers adapted to the Covid pandemic and providing support with restricted personal contact.

“The greatest success story is our volunteer’s willingness to adapt and how quickly they adapted,“ she said.

“They went above and beyond to teach themselves how to do things so they could continue providing emotional support for clients.

“It is an incredible testament to their commitment and shows how invested they are in figuring out what they can do to help.“

For more information on how to volunteer with PCSE, visit palliativecaresoutheast.org. au/how-you-can-help/volunteer.

THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN

Thumbs down

To all the road works at the moment, can’t leave this town without coming across one or five.

Thumbs up

To all the emergency workers.

Thank you for your dedication.

Thumbs down

To potholes all over Melbourne. Fix our roads Mr. Dan the Crazy Old Man.

Thumbs down

To the new Thompson’s Road intersection. I was stuck sitting there for 20 minutes the lights take so long, what a ridiculous waste of money.

Thumbs up

To everyone who posts photos of lost animals online to help them get home safely.

Thumbs up

To David Nutting for the outstanding community work he does each week.

Thumbs up

To all the mums with special needs kids.

Thumbs up

To the amazing support for the Petite Pantry.

Thumbs up

To everyone who puts the effort in to recycle properly.

Thumbs up

For the lady at Parkhill Junction

Coles who paid for my items when I left my purse at home, it was the first time I had done it and I was so embarrassed. It’s people like her who make the world go around.

Palliative Care South East volunteer Pam Glover has created more than 70 personal biographies for those receiving palliative care before their death.

Picture: MATTHEW SIMS

‘Be the Voice’ magazine is largely derived from stories of 10 women from diverse backgrounds including,Afghan and Indian. 331711

Pictures: GARY SISSONS

Spectacular firetruck racing game gets everyone drenched at the Hampton Park CFA Open Day. 328524 Picture: ROB CAREW

New end-of-life support

By Matthew Sims

The transition from learning you have a lifelimiting illness into death has become a little bit easier for south-east Victorians.

Palliative Care South East (PCSE) officially opened its new purpose-built Palliative Care Community Wellbeing Hub in Narre Warren on Wednesday 10 May.

Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas, Narre Warren North MP Belinda Wilson and Berwick MP Brad Battin joined staff members and community members to celebrate the opening of the new space.

First launched in July 1985 in David Street in Dandenong with limited space, the new space features a purpose-built education room, occupational therapy equipment, onsite couselling rooms and clinical rooms, an art therapy room and a social enterprise cafe providing about 500 weekly visitors with a peek into the role which palliative care plays in their community.

The building was completed thanks to a $2 million state government investment announced last year.

The not-for-profit organisation provides home-based care to more than 1000 clients a year in Dandenong and Casey, parts of Kingston and Cardinia.

The launch also included a special dance performance from Hampton Park Wurundjeri dance group Djirri Djirri, led by Wurundjeri, Dja Dja wurrung and Ngurai illum wurrung woman Mandy Nicholson.

PCSE chief executive Kelly Rogerson said they were “thrilled“ to welcome the public at the launch.

“This hub provides a beautiful welcoming space for our staff and volunteers to work and be supported, for our community to visit and receive supportive care and it provides the opportunity to expand our service delivery op-

tions,“ she said.

“It reflects the hard work of our staff and supporters and the fundraising efforts of many.“

Ms Rogerson thanked architect Jake Kelly and the builders at Newpol for their work on the project.

“The building was built on the generosity

Council excludes workers

By Emily Chapman Laing

South-Easter Metropolitan Region MP David Limbrick has called for the Minister of Local Government to review Casey council’s meeting time.

“Constituents in Casey council have made it clear they are not happy with the monthly council meeting time of 4 pm,“ Mr Limbrick told State Parliament onThursday 4 May.

“Constituents say that working people are being excluded from meetings.

“Other councils hold their meetings at times when people can attend.“

Mr Limbrick stressed the inefficacy of council meetings being scheduled at a time when many Casey residents are “still at work or caring for their kids after school“. The issue has reportedly been raised often to administrators at council meetings, with locals growing more frustrated as the problem remains unaddressed.

“As the council is still under administration, there are no councillors to take this matter to,“ Mr Limbrick said.

The City of Casey administrators have said they will not be reviewing the scheduled meeting time until December.

“My question is, will the minister investigate why the meetings are being held at 4 pm, whether the community has had a voice on this and why they will not review this prior to December,“ Mr Limbrick said.

The government has responded, but concrete answers are yet to be given.

“We are aware that this concern has been raised and Local Government Victoria has contacted the City of Casey to follow up,“ a government spokesperson said.

City of Casey Head of Governance, Integrity and Legal Support, MichelleTipton says the council’s governance rules prevent the administrators from changing the meeting time until 2024.

Hospital death preventable

From page 1

As a result of the internal review findings, changes were made to the ligature audit process, which are now conducted annually by two or three people from several wards. Monash Health also developed a “Mental Health Inpatient Ligature Point Assessment and ManagementProcedure”inthewakeoftheman’sdeath.

But a legal representative for the family of the deceased, Associate Professor Jonathan Phillips said Monash Health “failed to provide him with a safe hospital environment”.

He said it is “well understood by health systems and individual hospitals” that disturbed persons will use the means available to them to attempt to take their lives and the method used by the deceased was an “obvious method“ and “not a new understanding“.

It was “unreasonable“ that the ligature point was not removed, given more than two

years had passed since its initial identification, Assoc. Prof Phillips said.

Ms Fitzgerald agreed the presence of the ligature points in the man’s room “was inherently unsafe having regard to [ the deceased’s] known risk of suicide“. “The removal of these ligature points from the inpatient Unit was clearly not a difficult or time-consuming task, as it was completed within two days of Mr Harvey’s death,” she said. “It cannot be known whether [the man] would have found some other means to take his own life at this time, had the known ligature point not been available to him, but he would not have had the opportunity to take his life in the way he did, had the known ligature point been removed.”

If you, or someone you know needs support, connect with Lifeline by phone 13 11 14, text 0477 13 11 14 or chat at lifeline.org.au/ crisis-chat.

of so many individuals...our volunteers and staff...and extraordinarily generous business partnerships who gave us furniture at cost price and listened to the stories our clients and carers and knew that each dollar we saved would be allocated to new services to support their community,“ she said.

PCSE board chair Margaret O’Connor AM said while the building was new, the ethos of

the staff would remain the same.

“We continue to offer spiritual care and clinical care through palliative care physicians, skilled clinical nurses and nurse practitioners,“ she said.

“Today, we have a beautiful welcoming space for both staff and volunteers to work and where they are supported.“

PCSE took in 1300 referrals, took in 900 new clients and supported 737 people to die during the 2021-22 financial year, 80 per cent of which died in their place of choice.

Demand for palliative care was expected to grow by 50 per cent across Australia by 2035 and double by 2050.

Ms Thomas said she was proud to help support the new hub’s construction and development.

“We often think of palliative care as end-oflife, but it’s so much more than that,“ she said.

“This new hub is just one example of how we’re delivering Victorians the end-of-life care they need and deserve, no matter where they live.”

Member for Narre Warren North Belinda Wilson said the new hub would provide close support for those requiring care in Melbourne’s south east.

“Palliative Care South East now has the world-class facility they need to support more people across Melbourne’s south-east to get the end-of-life care they need close to home,“ she said.

One of the founding members of the organisation Dr Ruth Redpath was present during the launch and said it was “extraordinary“ to see the new building come to fruition.

“The thought and planning to make this a welcoming space, I can only imagine what an extra contribution to the community it’s going to make,“ she said.

“It’s quite overwhelming.“

Melbourne’s south-eastern suburbs are on the road to smarter technology

Busy main roads in the south-east are experiencing smoother traffic flow with smarter technology.

Our cutting-edge technology allows us to monitor and manage congestion to allow traffic to flow as efficiently as possible so you can travel to your next planned event with ease.

Our boosted team of specialists have made improvements from Cheltenham to Dandenong to Cranbourne.

These include:

∞ installing 390 traffic cameras to help monitor and respond to incidents

∞ installing 48 dynamic pedestrian crossings that allow people enough time to cross safely and avoid holding up traffic unnecessarily

∞ undertaking the biggest traffic light review to give you a better run at the lights

∞ clearing more than 500 incidents in your area to help keep traffic flowing.

When something goes wrong, we’ll see it, tell you how to avoid it, and clear it to provide you with smarter, smoother journeys and travel times you can count on Find out more at smarterroads.vic.gov.au

Narre Warren North MP Belinda Wilson, Palliative Care South East chief executive Kelly Rogerson, Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas and PCSE board chair Margaret O’Connor AM helped officially open the community wellbeing hub. 334358 Picture: MATTHEW SIMS

THE LOWDOWN Q&A with

Tell us a fun fact about yourself!

I love going on ghost tours.

What do you love about the work you do with the Casey Cardinia Libraries?

Every day is different. I get to talk to new people all the time. I could go from connecting people to free resources within the library, showing someone how to scan a document, introducing a new family to our children’s programs or booking in a yoga class in the library.

What would your last meal be?

That’s a tough one. If it was favourite take away it would be a charcoal chicken and chips with gravy, or home cooked it would have to be my mum’s roast lamb.

What is your most memorable moment?

The moment I became a mum when my son was born.

What event, past or present, would you like to witness?

12th March 1921, watching Edith Cowan be elected as the first woman into an Australian Parliament.

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

Marie Laveau, Janis Joplin and my Little Nana. What are you currently listening to, reading or watching?

Listening to Once for with Feeling the soundtrack (Buffy the Vampire Slayer), watching the current season of Ink Master and reading Free by Kristen Ashley.

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

Does frog in a pond count?

Where is your dream holiday destination?

I would love to go to San Francisco one day.

What were you like as a kid?

Very independent, always wanted to do

Wendy Morrison, Customer Experience Officer at Casey Cardinia Libraries

THREE … facts about sea turtles

World Turtle Day will celebrate turtles across the globe on Tuesday 23 May. Here are some of the things that make them special.

1 Australia is home to six out of the seven sea turtle species in the world. These include the green, hawksbill, leatherback, loggerhead, olive ridley, and the flatback turtle.

2 Whether sea turtles are born male or female is dependent on the temperature of their nest. Cooler temperatures during incubation produce male hatchlings, while warmer ones produce females.

everything myself and of course, I was always reading!

What was your first job?

Working in a sandwich shop making lunches for the local tradies.

What are the three most used apps on your phone?

Facebook, Instagram and Youtube.

What’s one question you have

always wanted answered?

Why doesn’t the government see how valuable our public libraries are and increase our funding so we can continue to provide, improve and expand our services to our communities, especially those that are most vulnerable? More and more people are turning to their local library for help more than ever with the cost of living rising so dramatically.

3 Leatherback turtles have remained unchanged since they shared the land with dinosaurs! They are also one of the deepest diving mammals, reaching nearly 4000 feet deep.

Wendy loves sharing her favourite authors with new readers. 334708 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Sex offender avoids jail

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

A 59-year-old father of two has been handed a suspended jail sentence over the sexual abuse of a girl in Narre Warren South 23 years ago.

The man, who is not named so to not identify the victim, had been minding his neighbours’ daughter aged between 7 and 9 at his home at the time. He was found guilty by aVictorian County Court jury of four indecent acts with a child under 16, and not guilty of three other charges.

The four acts happened during a ‘Truth or Dare’ game initiated by the man, who is 30 years older than his victim. His family and the neighbours were close friends at the time, with children of similar ages. The man was in a “position of trust” minding his friends’ daughter in a place they thought was “safe”, sentencing judge Carolene Gwynn noted on 9 May.

The girl reported the incident to her parents, who chose not to pursue the matter. As an adult, she laid a complaint to police in 2016.

In a victim impact statement, the girl said her self-esteem was still affected by the abuse.

She grew up with feelings of isolation, guilt and shame. For years, she had trouble trusting male authority figures, her relationship with her parents was impacted and she had selfharmed. Now she has constant concerns for her own children’s safety.

“I will never be able to recover who I was and could have been.

“It happened at such a vulnerable age. I grieve the lost innocence every day.”

The man, who pleaded not guilty, maintained he was innocent. Judge Gwynn said the victim’s statement was a “stark reminder”

that the impact of child sexual abuse endures a long time after the event.

“There is a harsh reality in that the offenders move on with their lives while the victims of sexual offending simply do not.”

She said the sentence would be less severe due to the “extraordinary” and “unprecedented” delay of six aborted trials since the man was charged in 2017.

Three of the trials were abandoned due to the Covid pandemic. Twice, the jury was discharged and another abandoned due to a prosecutor falling ill. All were reasons out of the man’s control that added additional stress on him, the victim and the victim’s family, the judge noted. She denounced his offending as “serious” and “abhorrent”, his moral culpability as high, but noted the offending was without“aggravating” features such as penetration.

The Noble Park-raised man had no relevant criminal history before or since, and his rehabilitation prospects were “excellent, if not achieved”.

“I find you do not pose a risk to the community.”

If jailed, the accused was at an elevated risk of severely worsened mental health, Judge Gwynn found. She noted his complete lack of familiarity with prison, being separated from his wife of 38 years, his depression and suicide attempt since charged, as well as immobility due to a degenerative spinal condition.

In what was an “extremely difficult” sentencing exercise, the man’s 31-month jail sentence was fully suspended for three years.

He must report as a registered sexual offender for eight years.

Glass recycling roll out

The City of Casey will see new ways to recycle rolling out across the municipality over the next four years.

New purple-lidded glass recycling bins are being introduced in local government areas across the state.

By separating glass, Victoria will be able to recycle more glass into new products and re-use more materials from the yellow mixed recycling bin due to reduced contamination from glass.

City of Casey Manager Sustainability and Waste, Michael Jansen says Casey will see the introduction of these new bins in 2027.

“As part of the rollout of the State Government Kerbside Reforms, we have started the standardisation of kerbside bins for all new and replacement bin requests across Casey,“ he said.

“We already provide a food and garden organic service and will implement a separate glass collection by 2027.

“Casey welcomes the state-wide rollout of the Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) later this year, and will analyse the impact of the CDS to best design the details of the future glass service.“

The glass bin will work alongside Victoria’s new container deposit scheme, CDS Vic, which commences on November 1 2023 – making it easier for Victorians to recycle their glass whether they are at home or out in the community.

The Labor Government has invested $129 million to buy new bins, improve drop-off facilities, deliver education campaigns and ensure they have the infrastructure in place to roll out these reforms.

The four-stream recycling system is a key part of the Labor Government’s waste and recycling reforms, aiming to divert 80 per cent of all material away from landfill by

2030, including 20,000 tonnes of glass.

The government says these reforms will create nearly 4,000 new jobs for Victorians and boost the state’s economy by up to $6.7 billion by 2030.

The initiative is backed by the Government’s $515 million investment to deliver the biggest ever transformation of the waste and recycling sector in the state’s history.

Acting Minister for Environment Lily D’Ambrosio says the program will make recycling easier for Australians.

“The four-stream recycling system will work alongside our new Container Deposit Scheme to make it easier than ever for Victorians to recycle their glass, so that it can be turned into new products,” she said.

“Our new household recycling services will maximise our recycling capacity, create new jobs and divert 80 per cent of waste from landfill by 2030, while helping to reduce emissions by 50 per cent”

GlassbinswillgreetCaseyresidentsin 2027.

Picture:GENERIC

Absurd claim

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

A drug-trafficking dad who claimed his DNA had innocently “seeped” into a safe full of ‘ice’ has been found guilty by a Victorian County Court jury.

Glenn Mazzacca, 42, of Carrum Downs, had pleaded not guilty to trafficking a commercial quantity of ‘ice’.

His initial defence was that he didn’t have the keys to the safe found in his car.

He also claimed he had no knowledge of the drugs and that his DNA was deposited through a “vapour-like penetration” of the air-tight and water-tight safe.

In sentencing on 12 May, Judge Marcus Dempsey labelled Mazzacca’s ‘seeped DNA’ theory as “absurd”.

The accused had consumed an “astonishing” amount of court resources in pushing the claim before switching lawyers, Judge Dempsey said.

His new defence team conceded he was in possession of the ice, but argued Mazzacca didn’t know or intend to traffick a commercial quantity of the drug.

He pleaded guilty to trafficking 1000 grams of 1,4-butanediol, dealing with $5880 of proceeds, possessing ice, unlicenced driving, drug driving and speeding.

A meth-affected, unlicensed Mazzacca was pulled over by police while driving in Carrum Downs in the mid-afternoon on 4 February 2021.

As he stepped out of the car and put his hands up, two bags of ‘ice’ fell on the road.

He was also found carrying $5880 cash.

Mazzacca called his girlfriend, who arrived on the scene.

He “shamefully” tried to offload a large drug bag down the back of her trackpants –which could have unfairly implicated her,

Judge Dempsey noted.

In his car was the lock-safe containing nearly 180 grams of ‘ice’ – three-and-a-half times the commercial trafficking threshold.

Police also found a container of GHB and drug paraphernalia such as empty syringes, ice pipes and scales.

In his bedroom, police opened a safe containing a bottle of GHB and “assorted tablets”.

Judge Dempsey noted Mazzacca grew up in a household marred with “rampant” and “normalised” substance abuse.

His mother kicked him out of home to “shock” him straight but he continued to use and traffick drugs.

The lack of pro-social supports explained the “many poor decisions” he’d made, Judge Dempsey noted.

His “unenviable” criminal history included armed robbery, court order breaches and two convictions for trafficking ice.

A “spectacularly bad” driving record comprised 14 convictions for disqualified and unlicenced driving and four drug driving offences.

“You are difficult to deter,” the judge stated to Mazzacca.

However, since his arrest, Mazzacca had done well during a four-month stint in residential rehab, got a job and not re-offended.

There was both “caution and optimism” for Mazzacca’s potential reform.

Mazzacca was jailed for up to four years and 10 months, including 262 days in presentence detention.

He will be eligible for parole after serving three years and two months.

From the day of his release, he will be disqualified from driving for two years.

Expansion for emergency

By Matthew Sims

The state government has confirmed plans were taking shape on the construction of a new emergency department expansion at Casey Hospital, as response times continue to lag in key categories.

The 2022-23 Victorian State Budget included a commitment for Casey Hospital to receive a share of $236 million in funding to double the capacity of its emergency department, as part of a $2.3 billion investment to upgrade existing and build new hospitals across the state.

Casey Hospital’s emergency department expansion would include a dedicated paediatric space for children and their families, and support an additional 52,000 presentations annually, helping ease the pressure on the existing emergency departments for the hospitals’ dedicated doctors, nurses, orderlies and other hospital staff.

A Department of Health spokesperson said planning works were progressing on the new emergency department.

“The expanded emergency department will respond to the growing number of adult and paediatric presentations in the community,“ the spokesperson said.

“Construction is expected to commence in 2024 and is on track for opening in 2026, and we’re working closely with Monash Health to ensure any impact to services is minimised during the redevelopment.“

According toVictorian Agency for Health Information data, Casey Hospital treated 78.35 per cent of emergency patients within the recommended time during the January to March 2023 period, which represented a step up from 37.64 per cent in April-June 2022.

In category two emergency cases requiring treatment within 10 minutes, Casey Hospital treated 48.94 per cent of patients

Casey Hospital is set to receive a multimillion dollar boost. 153243

within the recommended time during January-March 2023.

While Casey Hospital treated 83.46 per cent of category three emergency cases within the recommended time of 30 minutes, this figure represented a lag behind others hospitals such as Dandenong Hospital (92.6 per cent) and Angliss Hospital (86.22 per cent).

During the Legislative Assembly meeting on Wednesday 3 May, Narre Warren North MP Belinda Wilson requested an update on the works.

“Inthe2022–23budgetitwasannounced that the Andrews Labor government will redevelop and expand the emergency department at Casey Hospital,“ she said.

“This follows from a major expansion of the hospital that was completed in 2020 to meet the soaring demand for health care in the outer south-east.

“I know people in my electorate are excited to see these upgrades delivered, and alongside the major redevelopment of Dandenong Hospital it will provide world-class health care for residents in Narre Warren North.“

Para-athlete inspires kids

By Matthew Sims

Timbarra P-9 College’s Year 7 to 9 cohort received a peek into the amazing world of the Paralympics, with a visit from one of Australia’s top para-athletes on Thursday, May 11 via the Victorian Institute of Sport’s (VIS) school speaker program ‘Be Fit. Be Well’.

Para-table tennis player Melinda Tapper has competed in three Paralympics and was the first Australian para-athlete to qualify for the Olympics and the Paralympics in the same year, qualifying in both the 2016 Rio event and the 2020 Tokyo event.

The visit was especially inspiring for Year 9 student Zander Marcuccio who also has Erb’s palsy.

Tapper told the students about her receiving a brachial plexus injury during birth, essentially damaging the major nerves in her right arm, resulting in Erb’s palsy or weakness or paralysis in parts of the arm.

She said she had developed the drive within herself to achieve anything, from tying her shoelaces with one hand to playing sport with one hand.

“As long as I can achieve the same outcome as everyone else, that’s all that matters,“ she said.

“I was willing to keep sticking at something until I could do it.“

Tapper first picked up a table tennis bat in 2002, competing against able-bodied players and achieving high results in events in Jordan, Czech Republic and Portugal.

At the age of 19, the Australian Paralympics Committee approached her to ask her if she was interested in playing as a paraathlete.

Tapper was selected to play in the 2012 London Paralympics and then went on to compete in the 2014 Commonwealth Games

in Glasgow, the 2016 Rio Olympics and Paralympics, the 2018 Commonwealth Games at the Gold Coast and the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics.

The students were keenly interested in how

it felt to achieve so much with a disability.

“No good things happen overnight,“ Tapper said.

“When you want to make a change, it comes down to being consistent.

“I was not afraid to be different.“ Tapper told the students about her excitement in preparing for a bid to compete in the 2024 Paris Olympics and Paralympics, with plans to retire afterwards.

It was a special day for Timbarra P-9 College Year 9 student Zander Marcuccio, who met Australian Paralympian Melissa Tapper, who has the same disability as him. 334505 Pictures: MATTHEW SIMS

Students had the chance to wear Tapper’s uniforms and wear the silver medal she received during the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics. 334505

Tapper spoke to the students about the value of perserverance and self-esteem. 334505

A rich cultural experience

By Sahar Foladi

City of Casey residents enjoyed an extraordinary day of ’Bukjeh’ Gathering at Bunjil Place for the first time thanks to the Bukjeh organisation.

Families were able to enjoy the event from 11 am to 4 pm on Saturday 13 May.

Founder and chief executive officer, Aseel Tayah was very thankful and joyous at the success of the event.

“The event was a great success. I could tell from people’s smiles, excitement and them staying till the very end of the event.

“People loved the fact that there was so much going on, they loved that there was something for everyone (kids and adults) and they loved to celebrate with each other.“

The event saw a great attraction from community groups such as the Ahmadiyya Muslim community, Narre Warren North MP Belinda Wilson and federal opposition spokesperson for community safety, migration services and multicultural affairs Jason Wood.

“I was amazed by the collaboration of different mosques, community centres, schools and organisations,“ Ms Tayah said.

Bunjil Place struggled to close its doors as people lingered around, chatting, making conversations and sharing their appreciation for the event.

Ms Tayah said Bukjeh can’t wait for their next big Eid event.

Ms Wilson also gladly accepted the invitation to experience Bukjeh and said her favourite part was the food, multicultural experience and interacting with “so many people doing amazing work to promote multiculturalism across Victoria.“

“The event was absolutely incredible, with plenty of performances, singing and dancing –it was a great show of rich culture, family and connection in our community, and it was an

honour to be invited.

“The work Bukjeh does is very important, and I support their mission to promote inter-

cultural connection in the community. I look forward to working with them to best support their vision.“

Bukjeh CEO and an artist herself,Aseel Tayah. 334046

Picture: ROB CAREW

Ahmadiyya Muslim Community,Tahir Mahmood (middle) the secretary for Interfaith harmony. 334046_04 Picture: ROB CAREW

Food was also another aspect that bonded people and communities together. 334046

Picture: ROB CAREW

Apart from music and performances,there was also henna for locals as a treat!

Picture: SUPPLIED

“Bagadencak Minang Saiyo” performed at the event and they are excellent. 334046

Picture: ROB CAREW

Magnificent atmospheric singing and performances at the Bukjeh event. 334046

Picture: ROB CAREW

Mums’ safe space

By Emily Chapman Laing

A Narre Warren South mother-daughter duo are trying to dismantle the unnatural expectations of motherhood.

Yvette O’Dowd and her daughter Kaitlyn Greig are the team behind the Southern Natural Parenting Network (SNPN).

Yvette is a qualified breastfeeding counsellor, who ran a successful breastfeeding drop-in centre in Melbourne for five years.

With an extensive background in maternity, babywearing education and breastfeeding, Yvette saw she could fulfil a need within her community.

“I wanted as safe environment where five core things were shared by everyone, and then we could talk about everything else,“ Yvette said.

Yvette explained the SNPN community is like a “village“ to support mums as they raise their children.

SNPN members have five core tenants in common that serve as the foundation from which they explore their natural parenting journeys.

Co-sleeping, baby-wearing, breastfeeding, using cloth nappies and baby-led weaning are the main practices of the SNPN community.

Yvette noted that in regular parenting groups online, some of these practices would get heavy push back, leaving mothers feeling even more isolated.

“They take your choices as judgement of their choices, and I think [motherhood] is probably the only stage of life where that’s such a big thing,“ she said.

SNPN started as a Facebook group in 2014, and quickly grew from 100 members to 11,000.

One post reached 50,000 viewers, blowing Yvette’s expectations out of the water.

“It brought people together in a way that showed them they were far form the only person doing the things they were doing,“ she said.

SNPN focuses on “respective, responsive and gentle“ parenting.

This means validation for the child’s feelings, understanding and explanation of experiences, and gentle discipline over harsh punishment.

“It’s not a group of perfect parents,“ Yvette said.

“We still raise our voices sometimes,“ Kaitlyn added.

“The difference is we might apologise later and explain that we had big feelings.“

Yvette says their model is one of reflecting the type of behaviour they wish to see in their children.

“Oftenpeopleareexpectingbehaviourfrom a child they’re not exhibiting themselves,“ she said.

SNPN was thriving in the local community, with weekly social sessions and babywearing try-on days.

COVID presented a host of challenges for SNPN, who were no longer able to hold crucial face-to-face events.

“There was a two year period where mothers and babies weren’t coming together,“ Yvette said.

“My son Teddy has hardly played with kids his own age,“ Kaitlyn added.

While online mother’s groups were available, Kaitlyn admitted the participants weren’t getting as much out of it as if they were faceto-face.

The team are now trying to kick off in-person events again.

Previously, SNPN held weekly playground meet ups for mums to socialise in a childfriendly environment.

“There was one point where we were averaging 20 mums, and once we got up to 60,“ Yvette said.

The group also hold babywearing sessions, where expectant or new mums can try on a host of baby carriers to find their right fit.

The babywearing group is run entirely money-free, with carriers being donated from manufacturers, spaces offered for free and no cost to participants.

Though Yvette stresses the donations do not necessarily come with a positive review- if a carrier has negative qualities, these are highlighted impartially.

SNPN has weighted baby dolls for use in the carrier try-on sessions, so mums don’t feel the nervous pang of putting an infant in a new carrier for the first time.

“We take them through it with the demo dolls, and then we take them through it with their baby, with us there,“ Yvette said.

“We will do that as many times as they need us to. We will be there to help.“

Yvette and Kaitlyn joked about how odd they look carrying the life-like dolls to the car, stuffed under their arms.

The benefits of babywearing have been known far back in human history, Yvette says.

“Babies are biologically wired to live [on a mother’s chest],“ she said.

“If you don’t have a baby carrier, they’re not

going to be in a bassinet, they’re going to be in your arms.“

Research from the Universite de Montreal found evidence of the use of baby carriers 10,000 years in the past.

Yvette says the baby carriers give back a level of freedom to mothers that is otherwise missed out on.

“It allows you to meet their needs and your needs,“ she said.

Yvette says eventually children will naturally branch away from the carrier, but it remains vital in the first three months of life.

“It would be easier if we had a pouch, the amount babies need to be on us,“Yvette joked.

“Babies don’t come with a 2023 update. They’re still living in a primitive world, where if they’re not being held they could be eaten, and they don’t want to be eaten.

“It’s about going back to an intuitive and supportive relationship with the child.“

Yvette is passionate about transforming social views towards motherhood, women’s bodies and the post-birth journey.

She says ideally, the government would instate 12 months of paid parental leave, allowing breastfeeding mothers to do so until full term.

The World Health Organisation recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of an infant’s life.

Beyond that, WHO says breastfeeding remains an important source of nutrition until the 24 month mark.

However, the Victorian Paid Parental Leave scheme is only offered for 20 weeks, or five months.

Yvette says the pressure on women to return to work shortly after giving birth is unnatural.

“It’s like giving birth and having a newborn is blip in your CV,“ she said.

“We need to honour the importance of the mother-baby dyad.

“We need to honour and respect mothers, not dismiss them.“

Worker convicted and fined

TheWerribee Magistrates Court has convicted and fined an unlicensed and unregistered worker who installed air conditioners across Melbourne, including in Berwick and Clyde North.

Keenan Blair Grobler received a conviction and a $10,000 in the Werribee Magistrates Court on Monday 8 May after being found guilty of 10 charges under the Electricity Safety Act 1998 and nine charges under the Building Act 1993.

Mr Grobler, who now lives in Scarborough, Western Australia, carried out works in Wyndham Vale, Berwick, Cobblebank, Tarneit and Clyde North between June and November 2020.

During that six-month period, he advertised his services on Facebook Marketplace, before installing nine split system air conditioners across five properties and two light fittings at one property.

Prompted by complaints made to Energy Safe Victoria between June 2020 and January 2021, an Energy Safe Victoria investigation found the works did not comply with the relevant safety standards and posed a safety risk to the properties, one of which was a family daycare facility.

Energy Safe Victoria chief executive

Leanne Hughson said everyone seeking electrical and plumbing works should always ensure people carrying out the works carried the appropriate licences and registrations before starting work.

“We advise everyone to check that the people working on their property are qualified and accredited to carry out the work, before the work starts,“ she said.

“Please also be wary when searching for electricians and plumbers on websites like Facebook Marketplace as it is common for unlicensed and unregistered tradespeople to promote themselves on these platforms.

“Energy Safe will always work to ensure people are caught and convicted when breaching these very important requirements.“

For tips on how to find registered contractors, visit www.esv.vic.gov.au/ community-safety/working-tradespeople/electrical-workers.

Library budget income drops due to recent restructure

By Matthew Sims

Casey Council has endorsed the upcoming budget for the Casey Cardinia Library Corporation (CCLC), detailing a $118,997 deficit for the 2023-24 period due to the withdrawal of Cardinia Council from the corporation on 1 November 2022.

At its council meeting on Tuesday 16 May, administrators passed a motion to approve the CCLC Draft Budget 2023-2024, an update of the CCLC Library Plan 2021-2025 (updated 2023) and the CCLC Draft Strategic Resource Plan 2023-2027 documents, as well as note the 2023 update of the CCLC Facilities Development Plan 2023-2027 document.

The 2023-24 budget detailed a total revenue of $9,603,487, including a $7,198,580 contribution from Casey Council and a $2,207,392 investment from the State Government.

The total expenditure outlined in the budget was $9,722,484, including $6,607,846 in employee costs, $102,960 in promotions and

marketing and $1,505,013 in library materials.

The CCLC currently services the community at the Bunjil Place Library, Cranbourne Library, Doveton Library, Endeavour Hills Library and Hampton Park Library.

Administrator Miguel Belmar said it was positive to see the reports detail ongoing improvement goals across the five facilities.

“The community can be assured that there is a focus on continual improvement of our library facilities,“ he said.

“It’s an excellent report that sets out how the library is going to do the work that it continues to need to do and to provide services to the community in its new structure.

“I note in particular that there has been a reduction in income because of the separation from Cardinia.“

According to the 2023 update of the CCLC Library Plan 2021-2025, Casey was forecasted to grow by 40 per cent between 2023 and 2041, from 392,236 to 551,362, with hotspots being in new residential areas around

Clyde and Cranbourne.

About 30 per cent of residents in Casey were under 19 years old, with the median age at 34, with children found at 57 per cent of Casey households.

The communities served by CCLC speak more than 140 languages and are from more than 150 cultural groups.

According to the plan, the CCLC aimed to achieve four main strategic goals: to create safe, welcoming spaces which provide free access to information, knowledge and resources, to strengthen partnerships and encourage innovation, to contribute to thriving, healthy and inclusive communities and to strengthen its capacity to lead, adapt and innovate to meet changing community needs.

The CCLC has projected it would have more than 980,000 visits for the 2022-23 year and outlined a target of 1,030,335 by 2025-26. In terms of memberships, the CCLC has projected it would have 89,400 for 2022-23, with a target to reach 102,065 by 2025-26.

Administrator Cameron Boardman congratulated the Casey Council and CCLC staff for their efforts in adapting to the new corporate structure.

“It is something that, from a community usability basis, we are extremely proud of,“ he said.

“It’s not just a place, these days, to borrow books and to use for community facilities.

“There is a range of digital services, there are meeting facilities, there are community events.“

In its Facilities Development Plan 20232027 document, the CCLC outlined that while its current libraries were located in Narre Warren, Hampton Park, Endeavour Hills, Doveton and Cranbourne there are large, fast growing residential areas remained without a more traditional library, outlining opportunities to investigate how existing infrastructure can be utilised for outreach or co-located library facilities, particularly in the fast-growing areas of Clyde North, Cranbourne and CranbourneWest.

Picture:ANTHONYINDRAUS/UNSPLASH

Yvette(left),Kaitlynand2-year-oldTeddy. 334532

Picture:EMILYCHAPMANLAING

Cup sees feast of football

More than 200 students battled it out for the third annual Paul Wade Cup at St John’s Regional College in Dandenong.

On 8 May, teams gathered from Catholic primary schools across the South East – St Mary’s Dandenong, St Paul Apostle North and South in Endeavour Hills, St Francis De Sales in Lynbrook, Holy Family Doveton, St Gerard’s in Dandenong North and St Kevin’s in Hampton Park.

The gala soccer day was named after former Socceroos captain Paul Wade, who is also an ex-student at St John’s college.

Presenting the cup was another ex-student Majack Mawith, who represented South Sudan at World Cup level.

St Kevin’s Primary School took out the final, narrowly defeating St Gerard’s. St Francis de Sales won the third-place playoff against St Paul Apostle North.

The day was facilitated by St John’s football program partner Dandenong City Soccer Club with the help of St John’s VET sport and recreation students and football program students.

Details on the St John’s football program: 8793 2000.

Survivor solidarity offers life-changing support for men

One in five men across Australia will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime, prompting one local volunteer group to give back and ensure these men don’t go through a diagnosis alone.

The South Eastern Prostate Cancer Support Group aims to provide a supportive environment for men to connect with others going through a similar journey and share their experiences to improve health and wellbeing.

The group, supported by the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, meets monthly at Dandenong RSL on the thirdWednesday of each month.

Support Group spokesperson, Steve Cox, encouraged men and their partners impacted by prostate cancer to reach out for support.

“We know some men can have a hard time

reaching out for help when times get tough,” they said.

“That’s why we’re here, to make sure that no man in our region feels like they have to

walk this journey alone.

Mr Cox says having support is a simple thing that can save lives.

“Our members are fathers, sons, brothers, grandfathers, and uncles and all have a story to share.

“We enjoy getting out and about to start the conversation about prostate cancer and let locals know the importance of getting checked by their doctors. “

PCFA Chief Executive Officer, Anne Savage, said that the network of support groups across the country play a vital role in the fight against prostate cancer.

Ms Savage says a diagnosis of prostate cancer can be isolating and overwhelming for both men and their loved ones.

“With today marking the start of National Volunteer Week, there is no better time to

highlight the work of our Prostate Cancer Support Groups and to celebrate the dedicated men and women who share their experience and knowledge with others to lend others a helping hand,” she said.

“When the burden is heavy and the conversations are tough, support groups are there to lighten the load and shine the light of hope.

“As the national peak body for prostate cancer research, awareness and support, we are proud to stand alongside them.”

National Volunteer Week runs from Monday 15 May to Sunday 21 May.

To find out more about the Prostate Cancer Support Group, call 1800 22 00 99 or visit www.pcfa.org.au/support/find-a-support-group.

The South Eastern Prostate Cancer Support Group is just one of the ways to give back this National Volunteer Week. Picture: GENERIC

St Mary’s Primary students cheering their team on at the Paul Wade Cup tournament at St John’s Regional College, Dandenong. 326261 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

Riley from St Paul Apostle South Catholic Primary School. 326261

Riley from St Paul Apostle South Catholic Primary School celebrates his goal in the Paul Wade Cup tournament. 326261

St John Regional College’s director of football Ljuban Palinic, Josh, Preston, principal Tim Hogan , Tim, Daniel and Marko. 326261

A St Mary’s player controls the ball. 326261 St Gerard’s Primary students placed runner-up after a tight, entertaining final. 326261

Adonis from St Paul Apostle South Catholic Primary School celebrates his goal in the Paul Wade Cup tournament. 326261

Adonis from St Paul Apostle South Catholic Primary School celebrates a goal. 326261

WHAT’S ON

International Day for Biodiversity at Myuna Farm

Come to celebrate International Day for Biodiversity at Myuna Farm!

The event will involve an opportunity to meet some of the native animals and plants that live here, learn what biodiversity is and why it is important in our daily lives.

Take a train ride down to our wetlands to meet the awesome Flying Foxes and watch them fly out at sunset.

Listen to frog calls and learn what frogs live at the Myuna Farm wetlands.

Examine water bugs and learn how they can indicate the health of waterways.

Bookings essential, $2 gold coin donation to be paid on the day.

Register interest at myunafarm@casey.vic.gov.

au · Myuna Farm,182 Kidds Rd,Doveton,Wednesday 24 May, 4:30pm - 6:30pm.

Children’s Sweets and Treats

Cooking Workshop

A fun hands-on cooking program for children 8-12 years old to teach them food handling, knife skills, food prep and basic health & safety in the kitchen.

Recipes will include mini muffins, slices, chocolate rainbow squares and snickerdoodles to take home to share.

These workshops will teach your child valuable life skills and will be facilitated by our popular, local chef extraordinaire.

This workshop will run Saturday mornings for 2 weeks commencing 27th May.

· Balla Balla Community Centre, Unit 7/9 Selandra Blvd, Clyde North on Saturday 27 May, 10am - 12pm.

Volunteer Expo

Discover great volunteering opportunities in the City of Casey at the Casey Volunteer Expo!

Volunteering is a great way for people to gain experience and skills, all while making a difference in someone’s life.

Meet with organisations, learn about what they do and how they support Casey residents, watch the performances and grab a bite to eat.

Lots of great activities on the day including cultural dancing and food.

· Bunjil Place Function Centre, 2 Patrick Northeast Drive, Narre Warren on Thursday 25 May, 10am - 3pm.

Biggest Morning Tea

Join Cranbourne Fitness 24/7 for their Biggest Morning Tea and help raise much needed funds

for the Cancel Council.

They are running a special group fitness class at 9.30am, where members will support with a donation and the gym will be donating 100% of any proceeds from casual visits for the day.

After the class, attendees will head down to Funtopia as a group, for a morning tea.

Funtopia has also agreed to make a donation to the Cancer Council for any coffees purchased on the morning.

· Shop 18, 350-398 South Gippsland Highway, Cranbourne on Thursday 25 May at 10:30am.

Oliver Racing Open Day Luke Oliver Racing are looking forward to hosting their annual open day at their Cranbourne stables.

All owners and racing enthusiasts are welcome to attend. Lunch, drinks and refreshments will be provided.

Oliver’s quality 2023 lineup of yearlings will be on parade for a closer look giving you full insight into what they have in store for their futures.

Come and spend time with the horses, meet & greet with staff, have a tour of their world class facilities & enjoy all things Oliver Racing has to offer!

· Cranbourne Training Complex, Grant Street, Cranbourne on Sunday 21 May 2023, 10:30am.

Forest Therapy

The Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne are hosting a forest therapy session to get you back in touch with nature.

Originating from Japan, shinrin-yoku, or forest therapy, is a preventative health practice that immerses your senses in nature. This guided wellbeing experience will bolster your mental and physical health by reducing stress levels, regulating pulse and blood pressure and elevating your mood.

Recognised as a public health practice in Asia and Europe, forest therapy is gaining global acclaim as an evidence-based, costeffective and natural remedy – a ‘green prescription’ for a healthier you. Surround yourself with biodiversity from across the globe at Melbourne Gardens. Tickets are $30 per person.

· Cnr Ballarto Road and Botanic Drive, Cranbourne on Sunday 28 May, 10.30am - 12.30pm.

This Girl Can

The Casey BMX Club are making Saturday 27 May a really special day to celebrate girls of all ages with This Girl Can.

They are calling all the girls, ladies and women to come forward and have a go on a BMX race bike.

This isn’t just for the kids! Mums, aunts, big cousins and even nans are welcome.

Pro riders Bella May and Coby Stagg will run a coaching session after the Come & Try sessions are done.

· Casey Fields, 160 Berwick-Cranbourne Road, Cranbourne East on Saturday 27 May, 1pm.

Basic Cakes Workshop

Learn to make sponge cakes including sponge rolls, butter cakes including chocolate variations as well as cakes with fruit fillings and decorations to take home.

Cakes made from scratch always taste better and will certainly impress your family and friends!

This workshop will run Wednesday evenings for 3 weeks.

· Balla Balla Community Centre, Unit 7/9 Selandra Blvd, Clyde North on Wednesday 7 June, 6:30pm.

Join the Amstel Club in their Every 1 initiative

For a gold coin donation, members of the community can enjoy a coffee, tea, milkshake or

smoothie. You might even be lucky and receive a cookie or cake.

Show your support for Amstel’s Umbrella Support participants, who are expanding their vocational opportunities as they learn the ins and outs of cafe service.

· 1000 Cranbourne-Frankston Road, Cranbourne. Running every Thursday afternoon 1.30pm-3.30pm.

CRANBOURNE U3A

Make the most of your retirement! Tutors are available to teach art using various mediums.

A variety of crafts including knitting, patchwork and sewing, card making, and calligraphy.

Chess, line dancing, Italian language, table tennis and cycling groups welcome you. Would you like to play the ukulele, or just singalong for fun? Cranbourne U3A can help.

Our rooms are in the Cranbourne Library building, through the Casey Radio entrance. Expand your social life and get active for a healthy third age in your retirement.

· For more information visit: www.u3acranbourne.org.au or call Helen 0423 623 337.

Know Your Local

Get ready to explore the stunning murals in your community and support local businesses with the City of Casey’s new campaign.

Over three Saturdays in May and June, the Know Your Local campaign will bring a festive vibe to your local shopping and entertainment hubs.

From gorgeous murals to an hour of live music by a talented busker and food discounts, there’s something for everyone.

The campaign is a great opportunity to connect with your community and discover hidden gems in the area.

Participating businesses will also offer halfprice items, making it the perfect time to shop local and support the local economy.

· 4pm and 6pm on 6 May at Linden Place in Doveton,20 May at Narre Village in Narre Warren, and 3 June at Autumn Place in Doveton.

Narre Warren District Family History Group General Meeting

Join Carol Rosenhain, author of the military biography ‘The Men Behind the Myth, The Fighting Leanes of Prospect’ at L’Arte Central Social Enterprise.

2/65 Berwick-Cranbourne Rd, Cranbourne East, Saturday 20 May, 12pm.

· Bookings are essential. To book, email Eileen Durdin at secretary@nwfhg.org.au.

Streets, stations, society

South-east Melbourne locals are encouraged to spruik local stories from their hometowns as part of an upcoming virtual tour-based podcast.

Metro Trains is partnering with travel podcast and geo-mapping platform Storytowns PodcastTours and the Department ofTransport and Planning to deliver the tour experience.

Podcasts will play automatically as you approach a town, landmark or point of interest.

The series of podcasts will cover a variety of themes, including local food, culture, street

art, travel tips, fun facts, and interesting stories about each suburb’s history, culture and train stations.

One of the series will focus on stations and suburbs along the Pakenham line, including Pakenham, Berwick, Narre Warren, Dandenong, Sandown Park and Springvale, with additional podcasts coming on the Belgrave, Lilydale, Upfield, Williamstown and Sandringham lines.

South-east Melbourne locals can contribute to the series by Thursday 1 June.

After hitchhiking around the world, Storytowns founder Jarrod Pickford wanted to connect travellers to communities, launching the project in regional Victoria, with hundreds of free geo-located podcasts now available throughout Australia.

“We believe that every suburb has a story to tell, and we’re excited to bring Melbourne’s unique character and history to life through the voices of its people.“

Metro Trains chief executive Raymond O’Flaherty said the podcast series will be a

“new and unique“ way to enjoy Melbourne’s inner and outer suburbs.

“This will provide our passengers with a new and unique way to experience Melbourne,“ he said.

“These podcasts will enhance the journey and provide passengers with fascinating insights into the places they travel through.“

The Storytowns app is available for download on both iOS and Android devices.

To express your interest in contributing to the podcast series, visit www.storytowns.app.

are many ways you can give us a hand.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Sustainability superstars

By Matthew Sims

From plastic-free lunches to a new ’eco cubby’, Strathaird Primary School in Narre Warren South has always had a focus on sustainability since its inception in 2005.

The school has been named as a finalist in Sustainability Victoria’s 2023 ResourceSmart Schools Awards in the Curriculum Leadership Primary School of the Year award.

Foundation to Grade 6 pupils complete environmental sustainability as a specialist subject while incorporating science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) areas.

Last year, the school community came together to design and launch the construction of a purpose-built ‘eco cabin’ and ‘eco cubby’ as hubs for sustainability education and ongoing efforts.

Built with recycled materials and equipped with a kitchen to extend the schools kitchen garden program, the buildings would also be used to teach sustainability.

Environmental sustainability teacher Renee Van Styn said the school community was “really excited“ to learn they were a finalist in the awards.

“If you teach kids to love nature, then they’re going to be more respectful of nature,“ she said.

“We’re really seeing it reflected in the classroom.

“The community is starting to catch up.“

Ms Van Styn said the school nominated a ’Green Team’ consisting of 12 Grade 5 pupils, with duties including monitoring the school’s waste and recycling, brainstorming new environmental projects and helping to maintain the school’s vegetable garden

“They’re so passionate about it,“ she said.

“It really is part of our school culture.“

Ms Van Styn said the school has been en-

gaging a designer for the ’eco cubby’ project, with plans to launch the project by the end of the year to drive an ongoing focus on sustainability lessons, initiatives and programs.

“We try and do things that are fun and connect with nature,“ she said.

“They gain that love of nature.“

Other planned initiatives at the school include an ’eco trail’ including signage about different sustainability tips around the school grounds and an upcoming focus

Principals named for new Clyde North, Officer schools

Principals have been named for two new schools being delivered in Clyde North and Officer.

Minister for Education Natalie Hutchins highlighted the Labor Government’s nation-leading new school construction program and announced Sharon Mitchell as Principal of Officer Brunt Road Primary School (interim name), with Marc de Ley announced as Principal of nearby Clyde North Alexander Boulevard Primary School (interim name).

Local Member for Pakenham Emma Vulin visited Officer Brunt Road Primary School on Thursday along with upper house MPs Michael Galea and LeeTarlamis.

Together with new principals Sharon Mitchell and Marc de Ley they toured the new school buildings under construction.

Marc de Ley has been an educator in government schools for more than 20 years and is eager to work with the local community, ensuring a thriving school that delivers for the young people and families in the Clyde North area.

Beginning her career in primary schools across South Gippsland, Sharon Mitchell is excited to collaborate with the school community to create a safe and inclusive learning environment where all children can learn and achieve.

on ocean health.

Sustainability Victoria joint regions and community action director Katie Pahlow said the awards would celebrate young people and schools leading the way on sustainability, creating real impact for Victorian communities beyond the school gate.

“It’s important to remember that no action is too small and together we can achieve great things for our environment and generations to come,“ she said.

ResourceSmart Schools is a free State Government program delivering sustainability education to help Victorian schools minimise waste, save energy and water, promote biodiversty and act on climate change.

This year’s winners will be announced at an awards ceremony at the MCG on Thursday 15 June.

To view this year’s finalists, visit www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/resourcesmart-schoolsawards.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Education Improvement Leader).

(L-R) Victoria Golding (Senior Education Improvement Leader), Emma Vulin MP, Sharon Mitchell (Principal, Officer Brunt Road Primary School), Lee Tarlamis MP, Marc de Ley (Principal, Alexander Boulevard Primary School), Michael Galea MP, Keith Perry (Acting Senior

Marine Ambassadors Elaha and Roya ready to pick up any rubbish. CHAMBERS 333584

Pictures: STEWART

Strathaird Primary School’s Green Team members and Marine ambassadors were excited for the school to be named as a finalist in the awards. 333584

Green Team members Nima and Jayden. 333584

At The Bridge, our vision is to have a connected society where people of all abilities achieve their full potential. We aim to transform the lives of our participants through a wide range of services that support people with disability through connections in the home, community, and employment.

We are always looking for volunteers that are willing to help people living with disabilities and disadvantaged backgrounds to enjoy a range of recreational, sporting and work activities. Each activity we run needs volunteers to assist our staff and coaches.

By volunteering your time with The Bridge, you can learn a range of new skills, as well as making a difference within your local community. You have a real chance to contribute to the work that The Bridge is doing by getting involved, meeting new people, and sharing your time and experience.

Linda, one of our lovely volunteers who started at The Bridge in August last year, is very well loved by our participants. Having had a 20-year career working in Specialist Disability Schools, Linda knew The Bridge from some of her students’ attending services over the past. Linda helps at various activities such as fishing and golf but is known for her coffee and news mornings where she takes a group of participants to the local shopping centre to get coffees and catch up with each other’s news.

Our activities are varied and include everything from African drumming, baking, and art and craft, to sailing, golf and woodwork. Our volunteers usually start with around three

hours per week, committing to one day or activity.

We are very lucky to have all our volunteers here at The Bridge. If you would like to to see what volunteering opportunities we have currently available, please contact us on volunteer@thebridgeinc.org.au

You can find out more by visiting thebridgeinc.org.au/get-involved/volunteer-withus

Community and compassion

This Volunteer Week give back to the community and volunteer at St John of God Health Care.

Community and compassion is at the very core of the St John of God Health Care values.

FOCUS ON … NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK Volunteer at The Bridge

The organisation’s three hospitals located in the south east Melbourne region are on the lookout for more generous people to join the volunteer team.

While there are currently around 90 volunteers in the program, the Covid-19 pandemic prompted a decline in numbers and the hospitals are seeking to regain their volunteer workforce.

St John of God Health Care volunteers are able to choose from a variety of roles including:

· Meet and greet.

· Ward based duties in a variety of departments including day oncology, maternity, rehabilitation, palliative care and mental health.

· Administration support and more!

Volunteering is known to provide many benefits including an improvement in mood, a sense of belonging and purpose and is a meaningful way to make social connections. Oncology volunteer of 12 years, Helen, echoes this sentiment.

“I believe everyone should volunteer from time to time. Not only are you helping others in the community, but it also makes you feel good inside knowing that you might have helped someone during the day.”

It’s not only the volunteers who benefit either. Hospital caregivers appreciate the extra support that volunteers provide.

St John of God South East Melbourne

Hospitals Director of Mission Integration, Rhonda O’Connor says that volunteers are an integral part of the workforce, “We consider our volunteers to be important members of our team and we treasure the contribution they make for both our caregivers and our patients. The warmth, care and generosity they show to our patients makes a difference and absolutely improves their hospital experience.”

To learn more about volunteering or to sign up, visit:

· https://www.sjog.org.au/berwickvolunteers

· https://www.sjog.org.au/Frankstonvolunteers

· https://www.sjog.org.au/langmorevolunteers

St John of God Health Care volunteer Kevin.

Linda, one the volunteers who started at The Bridge in August last year.

THE JOY OF BRINGING JOY TO OTHERS

Meet three Melbourne volunteers who may think they’re leading ordinary retirements but are making an extra-ordinary difference to the livesofolderpeople.Andatthesame time adding a new level of joy to theirown.

Graeme and Joy Thompson (pictured) love spending their days ladling out hot shared meals and happiness as they help staff organise exercise and activities for older people at one of the many Uniting AgeWell social connections centres in Melbourne. “I feel I’m reallycontributingandIgetsomuch personalsatisfactionfromit,”saysJoy. “We are helping older people really enjoythemselves.”

Franca Goodwin spends oneon-one time with residents at one of Uniting AgeWell’s 12 aged care facilities in Victoria; chatting with residents, listening to stories of their lives and sharing her own. “I know they look forward to my visits,” she says.“This makes me feel valued and appreciated and so happy to be brightening up theirdays.”

And during National Volunteer Week, (May 15-21) it’s time to give a hugeshoutouttoallthosevolunteers, likeFranca,GraemeandJoy,fortheir

endless work and tireless energy in enriching the lives of older people in ourcommunity.

The theme for this year is The Change Makers which celebrates the power to drive change and ensure volunteering is inclusive of all members of the Australian

community. Uniting AgeWell CEO Andrew Kinnersly says, “this theme ringstrueforus,whereinclusionisa core value underpinning everything we do. With a long history of volunteer support, Uniting AgeWell’s services have grown and flourished; avitalcontributionwerecogniseand appreciateeachandeveryday.”

There are a wide range of volunteering opportunities available at Uniting AgeWell. You can visit theirwebsiteatunitingagewell.orgor call 13 93 75 to see how you too can enrichthelivesofolderpeople–and yourown!

Council, uni partner up

By Matthew Sims

Casey Council and Federation University Australia have renewed their partnership via a memorandum of understanding (MoU), following an initial partnership signed between the council and the university in 2020.

Expiring on 31 December 2024, the partnership would focus on developing a shared voice fortheBerwickHealthandEducationPrecinct, with the council and the university planning to work with partners and key stakeholders to help realise the vision of the precinct as a hub of knowledge, technology, health, education, research and employment for Melbourne’s south east.

The council and the university would also collaborate on projects and initiatives which contribute to solutions for environmental issues, innovative and responsive health and wellbeing services and resilience in current strategic and emerging industry sectors for a stronger local economy.

The partnership would also involve the council and the university working with stakeholders to identify gaps in knowledge and skills, come up with strategies to develop a skilled workforce in the region and promote local employment.

Casey Council chair administrator Noelene Duff PSM said the council was “pleased” to renew the partnership.

“We particularly look forward to working closely with the university and our stakeholders to enable upskilling, skill alignment and increased employment pathways for Casey residents,” she said.

“Our economic development strategy is to stimulate the knowledge economy and enhance relationships between academia, industry and government to cultivate a skilled workforce that is aligned to the needs of our local businesses.”

Federation University Australia Berwick campus head Kathy Racunica said the university was “excited” to continue to work alongside the council to find solutions to local problems in areas such as health, employment and the environment.

“By collaborating with government and implementing the Co-operative Education Model to create programs that are collaboratively designed, developed and delivered with industry, we can identify skills and knowledge gaps and build a pipeline of qualified graduates to address local workforce shortages and help grow opportunities in the south east region,” she said.

The existing partnership between Casey Council and Federation University has resulted in the implementation of a number of projects, including addressing workforce shortages in Maternal Child Health Nursing (MCH), joint research initiatives on environment matters and sport participation and collaborative efforts in the region’s jobs and skills development.

Federation University Australia Berwick campus head Kathy Racunica and Casey Council chair administrator Noelene Duff PSM are excited for the ongoing partnership. Picture: SUPPLIED

Foot and leg pain aid for all

Foot and leg pain is extremely common in people of all ages.

Children often suffer from growth and development conditions, seniors often present with joint degeneration such as knee arthritis, and for the rest of us who are somewhere in between, foot, heel and knee pain or injuries are very common.

The good news is that all of these conditions are extremely treatable, if you have a correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Dr. Paul Dowie, founder of Foot & Leg Pain Clinics and one of Australia’s most experienced musculoskeletal and sports podiatrists, has been successfully assisting foot, ankle, knee, leg and hip pain, injuries and degenerative conditions for 25 years.

His Foot & Leg Pain Clinics have helped thousands of men, women, children, seniors and professional athletes to alleviate pain, heal injuries, improve function and mobility andevenassisttissueregenerationforarthritic joints.

Dr. Dowie’s Foot & Leg Pain Clinics have expertise in correct diagnosis and individualized treatment plans to: improve proper foot and leg function, correct faulty biomechanics, assist strengthening and conditioning of joints and tissues, assist weight bearing activity and increase mobility, alleviate stress patterns, manage overuse syndromes, support musculoskeletal structure and posture, heal injuries, manage growth and development conditions, facilitate tissue regeneration and improve arthritic concerns.

Utilizing the very latest medical research and treatments including regenerative treatments like Prolotherapy and PRP, Foot and Leg Pain Clinics is a leader in its field providing

medically sound advice and proven treatment solutions.

Dr. Dowie has even assisted many to avoid

or delay surgery and reduce or eliminate longterm medications.

You can see Dr. Dowie at his Foot

WHY OSTEOPATHIC?

Osteopathic intervention can help treat arthritis, back pain, headaches, tennis elbow, digestive issues, and postural problems. Treatment can also assist with sleep cycles and the nervous, circulatory, and lymphatic symptoms.

Servicing The Beaconsfield Community for over 23 years.

Members

and Leg

Pain Clinic in Berwick if you have any foot, knee or leg pain, injuries or degenerative concerns by calling 1300 328 300.

Shopping Village 1 Corner Oshea Rd & Clyde Rd

• Berwick Coles Supermarket

Parkhill Plaza Shopping Centre 1 Corner Oshea Rd & Clyde Rd

• Berwick Berwick Springs

Lucky Lotto Shop 10/1 Corner Oshea Rd & Clyde Rd

• Berwick Grants Estate Agents 3a Gloucester Avenue

• Berwick Berwick Newsagency 29 High Street

• Berwick Ray White Real Estate 42 High Street

• Berwick Alex Scott and Staff Real Estate 49 High Street

• Berwick Harcourts Real Estate 20 High Street

• Berwick Neilson Partners 1st National 57 High Street

• Berwick Gluten Free and Chocolate 9/48 High Street

• Berwick O’Brien Real Estate 56-58 High Street

• Berwick St John of God Hospital 75 Kangan Drive

• Berwick Chris Peake Real Estate 18 Langmore Lane

• Berwick Woolworths Shopping Centre 1-9 Lyall Road

• Berwick Mansfield Street Foodmart 157-159

Mansfield Street

• Berwick Parkhill Plaza News and Lotto Shop 13, 215-225 Parkhill Drive

• Berwick Chemist Discount Centre Shop 2, 215-225 Parkhill Drive

• Berwick Coles Supermarket Parkhill Plaza Shopping Centre Shop 19, 215-225 Parkhill Drive

• Berwick Coles Berwick Central 2 Richardson Grove

• Berwick Hocking Stuart Real Estate Suite 2, 16 Langsmore Lane

• Hallam 7 Eleven Service Station 38-40 Hallam South Road

• Hallam Joes Mini Mart 117 Hinrichsen Drive

• Hallam Coles Hallam 2 Princes Domain Drive

• Hallam Raine and Horne Real Estate - Hallam 2 Spring Square

• Hallam Hallam Square News 42 Spring Square

• NarreWarren Ritchies IGA Shop 4/14 Webb Street

• NarreWarren Ritchies IGA Shop 4/14 Webb Street

• NarreWarren Narre Warren Newsagency 34 Webb Street

• NarreWarren Fleetwood MiniMart 94-96 Fleetwood Drive

• NarreWarren Casey Gardens Caravan Park 6 Fullard Road

• NarreWarren City of Casey 2 Patrick NE Drive

• NarreWarren Neilson Partners 1st National 418

Princes Highway

• NarreWarren The Good Food

Emporium 15/430–440

Princes Highway

• NarreWarren Westfield

Fountain Gate Shopping Centre

25-55 Princes Highway

• NarreWarren Coles 25-55

Princes Highway

• NarreWarren Woolworths 25-55 Princes Highway

‘soap opera’

• NarreWarren O’Brien Real Estate Narre Warren 25-55 Princes Highway

• NarreWarren Coles Express 2 Regency Drive & Princes Highway & Lauderdale Road

• NarreWarren Only Real Estate 13/3 Webb Street

• NarreWarren Donaldson Martin Real Estate 43-45 Webb Street

• NarreWarren Coles Express 155-171 Narre Warren North Road

• NarreWarren North Marcos IGA 2 Oakview Boulevard

• NarreWarren North Narre Warren North Newsagency 3/1E Oakview Boulevard

• NarreWarren South Casey Central Shopping Centre 400 Narre Warren - Cranbourne Road

• NarreWarren South Coles 400 Narre Warren - Cranbourne Road

• NarreWarren South Woolworths 400 Narre Warren - Cranbourne Road

• NarreWarren South Ray White Real Estate Shop 20, 400 Narre WarrenCranbourne Road

• NarreWarren South Casey News and Lotto Shop 156, 400 Narre Warren - Cranbourne Road • NarreWarren South Ritchies Amberly Park 245 Ormond Road

BERWICK

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

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The Cardinia Foundation Ltd Community Grants Program 2023

The Cardinia Foundation Ltd is a philanthropic community foundation, raising funds for local community groups throughout the Cardinia Shire, with funds dispersed through an annual grants program. Established in 2003, the foundation aims to support the social, community and physical development of the Cardinia Shire.

Community groups, charities and not-for-profit organisations are invited to apply for a grant in this year’s program. The Community Grants Program aims to support projects for Community health, seniors, Disability, Disadvantage, Youth, Arts and Men's Health across the Cardinia Shire region.

How to apply:

1. The ‘Grant Guidelines’ MUST be read before completing the application.

2. Application forms MUST be submitted on a Grant Application.Available by downloading on website under grants or by request from admin@cardiniafoundation.org

3. Late applications will not be accepted; applications MUST be submitted and received by email on or before 5:00 pm 31st May 2023.

4. Shortlisted applicants will be notified and may be requested to provide additional documentation such as; annual reports, financial statements, letters of support, information brochures, evidence of DGR endorsement etc.

Announcement of successful applicants will be made during June 2023.

Please refer to our website www.cardiniafoundation.org and proceed to the Grants section for an Application Guide and Application form.

Applications will close at 5.00pm on 31st May 2023

Please direct any queries to the Executive Officer on email admin@cardiniafoundation.org

“What have you done today to make you feel proud?”

EASTON

(nee Healy) Margaret 23.05.1936–12.05.2023 WifeofPaul(dec). Lovedandlovingmother ofCraig,BenandLincoln. Mother-in-lawofCaron, KarenandSarah. AdoredGrandieof Jordan,Brodie,Cassidy, Baileigh,Darby,Amelie, Aiden,Saskia,Mylie, HarperandAbby. Specialthankstoher lovingsisters, AvisandLorraine, fortheirwonderfulcare.

EASTON

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The Chapel funeral of Margaret Easton will be held at Tobin Brothers ExpressionsofLifeChapel, 21 Lyall Road, Berwick on MONDAY (22nd May, 2023)at10am. Aprivatecremation willfollow.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Dementia Australia. Envelopes will be available at the chapel. Theservicewillbe webcastliveat www.tobinbrothers.com.au

Tobin Brothers Funerals Berwick 9796 2866 Member AFDA

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Trades & Services

section of Network Classifieds.

ADVERTISERS, in this section are qualified practitioners and offer nonsexualservices.

V Pets & Services

ADVERTISERS

PLEASE NOTE

Anyone advertising a puppy, dog, kitten or cat in Victoria for sale or re-homing will need a source number from the Pet Exchange Register and a microchip identification number. It is now an offence to advertise unless the source number and microchip identification number is included in the advertisement or notice. For further information, call 136 186 or visit animalwelfare.vic.gov.au

“I advertise in the local paper as it connects with the local neighbourhood”

- Jim

Celebrating our mothers

The sun was shining and the smiles were out when the Quarters Primary School community came together to celebrate the inaugural Mothers and Special Others Picnic event on Friday 12 May.

Picnic blankets were spread out as families shared their picnic treats, with mums, aunties, grandmothers and significant others joining pupils for the event.

During the week leading up to Mother’s Day, pupils were also busy in classrooms and during Visual Arts sessions making some gifts to give the special people in their lives on Sunday.

Star News photographer Stewart Chambers visited the school to capture the event.

Star News Group is an innovative and dynamic media company located in Pakenham, Victoria. As a leading publisher of print and digital news, we are looking for a part-time Telesales Representative to join our team.

Overview

The successful candidate will be responsible for increasing revenue by selling our products and services to potential and existing customers via phone call. This is a part-time role with flexible hours.

Key Responsibilities

•Manage a portfolio of existing customers and develop relationships with new customers.

•Conduct outbound telesales calls to promote our products and services.

• Achieve and exceed sales targets and KPIs.

•Keep accurate and updated records of customer interactions and sales leads.

•Coordinate with the sales and marketing team to align sales strategies and campaigns.

•Telesales or cold-calling experience is preferred but not essential.

•Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.

• Results driven and target-oriented mindset.

• Strong organisational and time management skills.

• Ability to work independently and in a team environment.

• Strong attention to detail.

The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme.

Send your application letter and resume to:

Advertising Sales Manager

Mandy Clark mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au

Star News Group seeks an enthusiastic sales executive to work across our print, digital, social and online platforms.

Star News Group is an independently owned company which prides itself on its long history of community experience but also its investment in the future.

The successful applicant will need to possess good people skills to enable them to meet with local businesses to sell solutions through our advertising platforms to help promote their business.

Sales skills/experience:

• Ability to maintain existing professional relationships and to create new ones

• Ability to meet defined sales and activity targets

• Excellent listening skills

• Accuracy and attention to detail

• Effective time management to meet deadlines

• Ability to operate in a team

• Demonstrates initiative and flexibility

• Effective oral and written communication

Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance.

The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme.

Send your application letter and resume to:

Advertising Sales Manager

Mandy Clark mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au

Ty and Callum (grade 5) with their mum Kelly. 331694

Emily with her daughter Aubree and Jess with her daughter Addie. 331694 Anikaa with her dad Bobby. 331694

Jai with his parents Anthony and Lucinda. 331694

Shiv with his mum Sandeep. 331694 Sharan with her daughter Mannat. 331694

Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

SPORT Track time for the Titans

By Marcus Uhe

There aren’t many easy contests in the Outer East’s Division One, says Berwick Springs coach Rod Benstead.

His Titans have learned that lesson the hard way in the last month, with a hard-fought win over Officer and consecutive losses to Emerald and Healesville, before rebounding with a win against Belgrave on Saturday.

They rediscovered their offensive fire power against the Magpies, kicking 18.13 121 to 5.13 43 to win by 78 points.

Led by Ty Ellison’s six, as one of 12 individual goal-kickers, they kicked six goals in each of the first two quarters and another five in the last, flexing their muscles over their struggling opponents in a team effort that had not quite been at the required level in recent weeks.

Riley Hillman starred off halfback as he rediscovers his 2022 form that saw him named in the Division One Team of theYear and Chris Johnson was welcomed back with open arms after missing the last two through injury.

HaydenStaggcontinuestoshowwhyhewas such a critical piece of Narre Warren’s Premier Division conquest last season and finished just outside the top 10 of the Shane Smith Medal voting as best player in the competition.

For Benstead, the process of returning to winning ways started on the track.

“I think sometimes you’ve got to reassess training standards and some of the basics, we sort of had fallen off a little bit and we made training a bit physical and harder,” he said.

“It sets the bar a bit higher and we’ve got some buy-in.

“We know we’ve got talent but that will only get you so far, the hard work has to be done.

“I know its cliche and easy to say, but sometimes you play the way you train and I didn’t think the training was there.

“We pressed them and we were really looking for a response.

“I said from the start, it’s a pretty even competition and you don’t have to be off by much to get a bit of a wake-up call.

“You do learn a lot in your losses from the experience, but now to get the response was good and we’ve got a big game after the bye, which is fantastic for the club.”

Tom Nelson continues to turn heads, taking another highlight-worthy mark while standing on the shoulders of his Belgrave opponent.

The centre-half-forward in last year’s Team of the Year has been deployed further up the field this year to add strings to his bow, and it’s caught the attention of recruiters at higher levels.

“We played him at full-forward last year and we’re playing him as a hybrid half-forward, onball role this year to keep developing him,” Benstead said.

“He works really hard, I think he’s training at Coburg one night a week.

“If you can take mark and goal of the week most weeks, there’s something about you that clubs and recruiters love.

“He’s a really humble kid too who works really hard, there’s lots of traits to like.”

The Titans now enter a tricky period of the season where they’ll play just once in the next four weeks.

Round five is being played as a split round, with Emerald and Healesville being a standalone fixture next weekend.

Benstead’s men will then tackle Seville before the fixtured bye, and then the week off for the King’s Birthday long weekend.

It comes at not a bad time, affording extra time for the exciting Blake Simondson to slowly return to football after a preseason foot

operation, and ruckman Jayden Bubb to shake his shoulder injury sustained against Healesville.

Simondson is expected to play against Seville this week and add another dimension to the prodigious midfield crop led by Stagg, Johnson and Aidan Nelson.

Upon the completion of round six, the Titans will have played each side at least once, the first side to do so in Division One, as the last to weather their bye weekend.

While the season is still awakening after a long off-season, there’s already a logjam forming between second and fifth, with Healesville, Berwick Springs, Officer and Seville all snapping at the heels of the undefeated Emerald.

The runner-up to Gembrook Cockatoo last year, Seville, bringing up the rear in that quadrant, reflects the evenness of the field.

Reflecting on the previous two weeks, Benstead believes the teams that do the basics and earn the opportunity will be rewarded the longer the campaign goes.

“There’s no real surprises there, it’s a good competition with good teams that are pretty even,“ he said.

“That’s why it gets back to working harder than other teams and doing all the little things.

“The premier data we get now on all clubs is pretty good so there won’t be many surprises.

“Last year Seville beat us by 60 points the first time we played them, then 30 points, and then we beat them.

“It’s a long year and you can improve and you’ve got to improve, so that’s probably some of the key messaging that you just can’t be satisfied in this competition.

“We give ourselves every opportunity.

“We think we can keep improving, we don’t think we‘re playing our best.”

Division One’s other clash saw Officer register their second win, this time over Hallam by 93 points thanks to seven goals to recruit Mark Seedsman.

The Hawks got the jump on Officer early at Starling Road to hold a minor advantage at quarter time, but eight goals to nil in the second quarter quickly had the ‘Roos back in the driver’s seat.

It was their second consecutive score of 20 goals, having done the same against Seville in their last outing before the bye.

Things appear to be clicking under Danny Charles, having won their last two and putting up a valiant performance against Berwick Springs in round two, where they dominated patches of the second half with their run and carry against a premiership fancy.

For Hallam, Adam Nekic continues to be a valuable addition, while the Sharlassian pair of Harry and Jack both hit the scoreboard.

Memeti a hat-trick hero after a wonderful dream debut

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

In a cracking NPL2 debut, a Dandenong teen has blazed a quick-fire hat-trick to lead a thrilling comeback victory for Melbourne City.

Starting as a substitute on 7 May, 15-yearold Medin Memeti entered the fray at the 55-minute mark, with his team down 0-2 against Brunswick.

In little time, Medin changed the course of the match, striking goals in the 70th, 86th and 89th minutes for a 3-2 win.

Training with Melbourne City Academy, Medin felt a few nerves playing men for the first time.

“I was a bit nervous when I saw the players, but when I got my first goal my confidence got up a bit, I was full of energy,” he said.

“I wasn’t trying to take people on, I just took my opportunities.”

Now he’s dealing with his hat-trick going viral on Melbourne City’s social media as well as his proud uncle and Greater Dandenong councillor Jim Memeti’s Facebook page.

“It’s given me a headache, my phone has been going off on Instagram with these new followers and texts.”

Blessed with speed, strength and height,

333711

the fast-rising striker has already notched many big bags of goals, including a careerhigh eight for MCFC Under 18s against Mornington this year.

Two years ago, he caught the eye of Mel-

bourne City talent scouts while playing for Dandenong Thunder Under 14s where he scored an incredible 52 goals in 20 games.

In his first season with Melbourne City Under 16s last year, he was top goal-scorer

with 16 goals in nine games.

So far in Under 18s this year, he’s netted 16 in just six matches before his NPL2 promotion.

“I’m calm (in front of goal) and I’m never scared to take on a player, I always back myself,” he said.

Soccer talent runs deep in the family, with Medin hoping to follow the example of older brother Mersim who played for Australia’s Under 17s.

His father Mark carved a playing career at Dandenong Thunder, now he jokes that he is now his son’s “taxi driver” to training four times a week as well as matches.

Mark’s key advice for his son is to train hard and to focus.

Medin representedVictoria Under 15s last year, and played for Melbourne City in the JSSL Professional Academy 7s tournament in Singapore.

After such a dream seniors debut, Medin aspires to play the big leagues in England, Italy or France.

Being part of a reigning A-League premier club with ties to powerhouse Manchester City, the pathway is there for him.

“I want to try out for A-League as soon as possible, to get game time and prove myself.”

Medin Memeti completed a dream senior’s debut with a game-turning hat-trick for Melbourne City’s NPL2 side.

Picture: GARY SISSONS

Chris Johnson is yet to play in a loss in Titans blue and green. 330470 Picture: GARY SISSONS

Jack Sharlassian celebrates his goal from the pocket. 334580

Chappy-factor helps Doves

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Doveton coach Michael Cardamone stressed to his players that ruck Dylan Chapman’s return wouldn’t make it all click into gear automatically.

While there’s still a way to go – and there were other factors behind the result - his inclusion certainly helped Doveton clinch a 21-point win over Highett in Southern Division 2.

He gave the Doves midfielders first use and helped the visitors get the ascendancy in the middle as they won clearances by eight.

It’s his first game since the 2022 grand final so he wasn’t at his game-breaking best individually, but having an eminent ruck had a domino effect for a team that has been noncompetitive in that area.

Jake Basa got his mojo back in the midfield, playing his best game of the season.

He led an engine room whose work rate improved markedly from the first few weeks.

The mids offered more offensively and looked lively, even with minimal input from Ricky Johnson who played off half-forward.

More pleasingly, perhaps, was the defensive accountability, the Doves bringing the heat and ferocity from the first bounce after being jumped early so far this season.

The visitors finished with 72 tackles.

Recruit Aaron Johns also gelled well in

his first game with Chapman while skipper Shannon Henwood was strong.

Dylan Bowman was included for his first

game of the season and added a tough and smart edge to the wing he owned last year until an ankle injury ended his season in round 18.

Cam Williamson was named best afield, kicking four goals.

Cardamone, meanwhile, coached the game from the sidelines as Doveton tinkers with things to click the season into gear.

It was only one game, but against a competitive Highett outfit it loomed as an eight-point game for Cardamone’s men.

Next will be to prove it wasn’t a flash-inthe-pan, and back it up against Skye who also sit mid-table. Springvale Districts got another win they needed to get, against lowly Bentleigh. A first half blitz saw Kris Thompson’s men skip out to a 47-point halftime lead, only to give up seven goals in the third quarter which made for a tight finish.

The Dees regathered, though, Matt Wetering’s seven and Dylan Quirk’s class and leadership leading the 20-point win.

DivisionTwo

Results R5: East Malvern 18.10 118 v Caulfield 5.8 38, East Brighton 19.22 136 v Skye 7.6 48, Highett 10.10 70 v Doveton 13.13 91, Keysborough 22.16 148 v Black Rock 3.1 19, Murrumbeena 12.12 84 v Hampton Park 11.9 75.

Ladder: East Brighton 20, Murrumbeena 16, Hampton Park 12, Caulfield 12 Highett 12, Skye 12, Doveton Doves 8, Keysborough 4, East Malvern 4, Black Rock 0.

Fixture R6: Caulfield v East Brighton, Black Rock v Murrumbeena, Highett v Hampton Park, Keysborough v East Malvern, Skye v Doveton Doves.

Cannons battle bravely but blasted out on all fronts

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Casey Cannons suffered two goal defeats in both their men’s and women’s firsts teams on the weekend

The men went down 4-2 to Melbourne Sikhs while the women were outclassed 3-1 by Mornington Peninsula.

Steve Noney’s men kept it tight in the first half, repelling the opposition’s ascendancy, led by ‘keeper Adam Wadley, before the dam wall bust just before halftime.

Casey went into the main break trailing 1-0 before a much stronger second half.

Gurpreet Singh got them off on the right foot, with a controlled pass that set up a Blake Edwards’ leveller.

The Cannons had more opportunities after halftime but the score remained 1-1 going into the final period, when the game opened up.

Melbourne Sikhs scored the first two before Casey got on a roll.

David Noney set up Cam Ritchie for a reverse tomahawk goal in the top left corner as the momentum shifted back towards the Cannons.

The goal for Ritchie capped a strong balanced game of defence and potent counterattack.

As Casey was coming, however, and

Silver for Howell in Japan

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Berwick paratriathlete Jack Howell has taken out silver at the Yokohama event in the world triathlon para-series.

The 2024 Paralympic aspirant fell 85 seconds short of 33-year-old German Martin Schulz, but tellingly got the better of David Bryant by 13 seconds.

The pair of Aussies have had several duels in the PTS5 event but Bryant, 34-years-old, had always so far come out on top.

Most recently, they raced each other at Devonport in March when Bryant won by 25 seconds. While Howell’s 750 metre swim tends to gives him a strong start, Bryant is regarded for his cycle. Bryant created a 30-second gap

but Howell was able to overcome it to claim silver. The teenager’s 20-kilometre cycle took 28:49 – it’s a personal best for his weakest leg.

He told Star News two weeks ago that he would treat this as an opportunity to trial some things as it is the first time he had been overseas alone. Howell will next race in Montreal and Swansea, before completing a test event on the course that will stage the Paralympic event next year. Howell was born with an absence of the left hand and shortening of the left forearm, known as symbrachydactly.

searching for the leveller, a costly turnover saw Melbourne Sikhs go up the other end and ice it with three minutes remaining.

After an up-and-back game where both sides had chances, it was a disappointing result for the men, but the progress is on show given how close they got to the top side and measuring stick of the competition.

They’ll hope to showcase that and get both the process and positive result this weekend against North West Lightning.

The women, meanwhile, scored their only goal on the road via Mikaela Davis.

The loss is the second in the row and seems to signal the end of the fairytale honeymoon phase they had been enjoying in Vic League One after carrying over the momentum of last season.

Men’s

Results R5: Melbourne Sikhs 4 v Casey 2, North West Lightning 3 v Werribee 1, Old Xaverians 4 v Monash University 3, Yarra Valley 2 v Eastern Christian Hockey Organisa-

tion 7, PEGS 2 v Brunswick 1.

Ladder: Melbourne Sikhs 12, PEGS 11, Brunswick 10, North West Lightning 10, Old Xaverians 10, Monash University 7, Eastern Christian Hockey Organisation 4,Werribee 4, Yarra Valley 3, Casey 0.

Fixture R6: Eastern Christian Hockey Organisation v Melbourne Sikhs, Casey v North West Lightning, Brunswick v Old Xaverians, Werribee v PEGS, Monash University v Yarra Valley.

Women’s Results R5: Mornington Peninsula 3 v Casey 1, West Vic 2 v Monash University 2, North West Lightning 2 v Werribee 3.

Ladder: Mornington Peninsula 12, Monash University 13, Casey 9, Yarra Valley 6, PEGS 6, Knox 6, Werribee 6, West Vic 4, Brunswick 3, North West Lightning 0.

Fixture R6: Casey v North West Lightning, Brunswick v West Vic, Werribee v PEGS, Knox v Mornington Peninsula, Monash University v Yarra Valley.

Thus, his left hand sits in a cup-like device during the race, allowed in the PTS5 category where athletes race with mild impairments and are permitted to use supportive devices. Jack

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Howell tackled the challenge with aplomb. 335214

Picture: SUPPLIED

Casey goalkeeper Adam Wadley was praised for his performance which kept Casey with a strong chance at halftime. 330473

Picture: GARY SISSONS

The return of star-ruck Dylan Chapman made a huge difference for Doveton on Saturday. 296142

Picture: ROB CAREW

Class of 2022 hit hurdles

By Marcus Uhe

Berwick has slumped to its fourth-consecutive loss while 2022 grand finalists Noble Park and Rowville are still searching for form in the powerful Eastern Premier Division.

The toast of last year’s competition have yet to hit their straps, both finding themselves in the dreaded midtable cluster after the first five rounds of the new season.

But first to Berwick, who was handled comfortably by East Doncaster on the Lions’ home patch by 52 points.

The Wickers held a slight lead at quarter time, hitting the first huddle with a two-point advantage over their highly-touted opponents.

Goals to Kyle O’Sullivan, Jonty Andrew and Joshua Burgess meant their fight around the ground was matched on the scoreboard in fast conditions at Zerbes Reserve.

A miscommunication between O’Sullivan and Ashton Williamson saw them blow an opportunity to kick their fourth late in the quarter, as Wiliamson’s creativity brought an open goal unstuck, attempting to tap a ball back over his head to his teammate who was not prepared for the ingenuity.

They would kick four majors for the remainder of the contest, however, while conceding 11 the other way.

East Doncaster’s inaccuracy (14.16) saved the contest from being a complete drubbing, as their former AFL-listed players showed their class.

Tom Bell kicked five, while former Docker Taylin Duman was named as their best player for the afternoon.

Following his haul of four last week, Berwick ruck/forward Charlie Muley kicked three in another lone-hand in the Berwick forward line, which desperately lacks firepower.

Travis Tuck made a positive return to Clint Evans’ lineup, having not played since their round one win overVermont, while Jesse Cirulis continues to impress in his return from a serious knee injury in 2022, notably physical at ground level post-contest.

The loss sees them sit 10th with one win from five games, only percentage ahead of Doncaster in the dreaded drop-zone.

Their quest for a second victory won’t get any easier when they host Rowville at Edwin Flack.

At Rowville, another bag of five goals from Lachlan Wynd weren’t enough to help the Hawks knock off the ladder-leading East Ringwood, who snuck home by six points.

Rowville had trouble scoring at the Tennis club end of Seebeck Oval, kicking only one goal in the opening quarter and none in the all-important third.

They trailed at every break, but never by

more than 12 points, at quarter time, meaning they were always in the contest with the ladder leaders.

Trailing by 10 points at the final break, the first goal of the quarter was going to go a long way in determining the outcome of the contest, and it went the Kangaroos’ way in the ninth minute for a 16-point buffer.

Wynd kicked his fourth and fifth in the final term, using his height to his advantage on both occasions to earn free-kicks from deep in the attacking 50.

He kicked truly from a short distance from goal on both occasions, but his second proved to be the final kick of the game, with the siren sounding as the officials ferried the ball back to the centre for the restart, as the scoreboard finished 7.5 47 to 7.11 53.

Midfielder Matthew Martini will no-doubt rue a missed snap from the top of the goalsquare that would have cut the lead from 12 to six with five minutes remaining, while Kane Young’s brilliant rundown tackle saw him nearly miss the goalposts entirely as it just snuck in for a point from a tight angle.

Wynd, meanwhile, brings his season tally to 20 after four games, with remarkable consistency of five, six, four and five in the four outings to date.

The 21-year-old key forward has been invaluable for Ben Wise when not required for the Box Hill Hawks at VFL level, and shapes as

a name to watch ahead of the upcoming AFL mid-season draft.

The loss brings to an end their two-game win streak, nestling them firmly in the middle of the pack in eighth.

Noble Park suffered a shock second-consecutive loss at the bullring, this time falling to Norwood in a one-point thriller.

Goals were hard to come by all day for both sides, and the final quarter was no exception, with only two kicked, one each way.

Matthew Nelson broke the 19-minute scoring deadlock in what was a tense beginning to the final term, applying his trademark forward pressure to run-down a Norwood defender from behind, and calmly slot the resulting set shot.

It was his third major of the afternoon and injected some life into the Bulls side, but it most importantly opened a six-point lead for the home team, keen to make-amends after losing to Doncaster East at home last week.

The ascendency, however, was only brief.

Norwood very nearly tied the scores immediately, if not for a pressured snap going the wrong side of the goalpost from the following centre clearance, but it would come to be the old “handy point”.

After reaping the benefits from Nelson’s tackling pressure within striking distance of their goals just a few minutes earlier, Ben Mar-

son felt the shoe on the other foot, as he was wrapped up while looking to feed a handball and create a goal-scoring opportunity for a teammate.

Norwood took the advantage from the freekick and within seconds were shooting for goal from the arc of 50.

While the kick didn’t quite carry the journey, Ryan Morrison came up second best in a footrace with his opponent, who scrambled a toe-poke over the goal-line to make certain of the shot, and retake the lead.

In a low-scoring contest, that was the last time the goal umpires at either end would be called upon, as the remaining three minutes saw the scoreboard remain undisturbed.

It was not the way the club would have liked to honour Jackson Sketcher, their new skipper for 2023 who was celebrating his 100th game for the club.

With 18 scoring shots (7.11) to 14 (8.6) and leading at the first two breaks, it was certainly a missed opportunity to secure four points.

Instead, they join a crop of four teams on 3-2, and only possessing a slightly higher than average percentage.

Balwyn, in third on 4-1, sit 32 percentage points higher than Steve Hughes’ men, meaning they’ll have serious work to do as the season continues in their quest to go back-toback.

Top three teams making their mark in Osborne Shield

Pakenham, Drouin and Beaconsfield Blue had strong wins in the Osborne Shield on Saturday to stay in the top-three positions on the Berwick District Tennis Association (BDTA) ladder.

The BDTA is only three weeks into its winter season so there’s ample time for Cranbourne, Officer Blue, Narre Warren North, Beaconsfield Gold and Sandhurst to make their mark on the competition.

It was a foggy start on Saturday, but the players pushed through to enjoy glorious conditions later in the morning. Here are this week’s results:

SATURDAY

Osborne Shield

Drouin 3 6:44 v 0 1:27 Sandhurst, Pakenham

3 6:43 v 0 2:30 Narre Warren North, Cranbourne 0 2:37 v 3 6:48 Beaconsfield Blue, Beaconsfield Gold 1 3:37 v 2 5:41 Officer Blue.

Section 1 Rubbers

Berwick 1 3:33 v 2 4:35 Officer Red, Narre Warren 1 3:34 v 2 4:34 Harkaway, Officer Blue

2 4:31 v 1 2:21 Beaconsfield.

Section 2 Rubbers

Berwick White 3 6:40 v 0 1:20 Narre Warren, Pakenham 0 0:14 v 3 6:37 Berwick Blue, Clyde

2 4:29 v 1 2:25 Upper Beaconsfield, Narre Warren North 2 4:35 v 1 3:26 Cranbourne.

Section 3 Rubbers

Berwick Blue 2 4:43 v 1 4:45 Berwick White, Cranbourne 1 2:23 v 2 4:29 Berwick Black, Clyde White 2 5:38 v 1 2:31 Narre Warren North, Bunyip 1 2:24 v 2 4:29 Clyde Green.

Section 4 Rubbers

Clyde Blue 2 5:42 v 1 2:30 Narre Warren South, CranbourneWhite 2 4:30 v 1 3:33 Beaconsfield Blue, Beaconsfield Gold 2 5:40 v 1 2:20 Cranbourne Purple.

Section 5 Rubbers

Narre Warren 2 5:40 v 1 2:23 Narre Warren North Red, Cranbourne Black 3 6:36 v 0 0:5

Cockatoo, Beaconsfield 1 3:36 v 2 4:28 Cranbourne Yellow.

Section 6 Singles

Berwick White 2:32 v 6:45 Clyde, Pakenham

1:17 v 7:43 Berwick Blue, Hallam 4:34 v 4:37

Upper Beaconsfield, Berwick Blue 3:27 v 5:44 Narre Warren.

Section 7 Singles Officer Red 6:42 v 2:31 BerwickWhite, Officer Blue 5:41 v 3:24 Narre Warren North, Beaconsfield 4:32 v 4:35 Cranbourne.

Section 8 Singles

Berwick 8:48 v 0:24 Fountain Gate Gold, Narre Warren 7:47 v 1:21 Fountain Gate Green, Cranbourne 4:40 v 4:33 Upper Beaconsfield.

Section 9 Singles

Narre Warren North 2:31 v 6:45 Officer, Tooradin 0:18 v 8:49 Clyde.

SUNDAY

Section 10 Singles

Berwick Blue 5:40 v 3:30 Berwick White, Harkaway 6:42 v 2:30 Upper Beaconsfield, Narre Warren 7:44 v 1:26 Cranbourne.

Section 11 Singles

Berwick Blue 4:40 v 4:33 Berwick White, Clyde 7:45 v 1:23 Narre Warren Gold, Narre

Warren Green 3:34 v 5:42 Gloucester.

Section 12 Singles

Berwick 1:28 v 7:45 Harkaway, Gloucester

4:33 v 4:38 Officer, Pakenham 1:17 v 7:47 Beaconsfield.

Section 13 Singles

Narre Warren Green 6:44 v 2:27 Narre Warren Gold, Pakenham 5:41 v 3:40 Cranbourne.

Section 14 Singles

Narre Warren Gold 0:27 v 8:49 Narre Warren Green, Cranbourne Gold 6:44 v 2:18 Officer, Fountain Gate 7:46 v 1:20 Cranbourne Green.

Section 15 Green Ball Singles

Cranbourne Red 3:26 v 5:42, Officer, Beaconsfield 6:39 v 2:24 Cranbourne Blue.

Section 16 Doubles

Berwick 5:35 v 1:19 Fountain Gate, Beaconsfield 1:18 v 5:35 Narre Warren.

Section 17 Doubles

Clyde 4:26 v 2:28 Narre Warren, Pakenham 4:28 v 2:23 Beaconsfield.

Section 18 Doubles

Berwick Blue 0:10 v 6:36 BerwickWhite, Narre Warren Gold 4:30 v 2:21 Hallam.

BDTA players pushed through a foggy start to enjoy a glorious weekend of tennis. 293980

Picture: ROB CAREW

Travis Tuck returned to the Berwick midfield for his first game since round one. 286032

Picture: ROB CAREW

Crunch time for Cavaliers

By Marcus Uhe

Both Casey Cavaliers sides are marooned in 18th on their respective NBL1 South ladders despite the women picking up their second win of the season against Frankston on Sunday.

They fell four points short of making it two wins from two contests, having dropped the home contest against Nunawading on Saturday night 79-83.

A costly second quarter saw them score just 12 points and relinquish their lead they had established in the first period of the game.

A span of six minutes overlapping quarter time saw them relinquish a seven-point lead, unable to score for the duration of the period where their opponents scored 15, and ended the half 10 points behind the Spectres.

A thrilling final quarter saw the game come down to the final minute.

With one minute left to play, Rachel Bell cut the lead to just two points with a composed jump shot.

Frantic defence at the other end of the court nearly forced a shot-clock violation from Nunawading, and with 30 second remaining the Cavs had the last possession, and the chance to take the lead.

Bell drove and kicked to Taylah Giliam on the wing, whose three-point shot took a cruel double-bounce before deciding against dropping into the net.

They were forced to foul Nunawading and hope they missed free-throws, but the Spectres held their cool, nailing both to ensure it was a two-possession game with seven seconds remaining.

Stephanie Blicavs’ desperation heave fell short, and the margin finished at four.

Bell’s output was tremendous, finishing with 22 points and nine rebounds.

The good thing about playing on back-toback nights is that ensures you have a chance to immediately make amends and that’s exactly what they did, this time coming up trumps in the clutch moments against Frankston in the 84-80 victory.

With scores tied at the end of the third quarter, Casey jumped out to a five-point lead midway through the last term before both sides felt the intensity of the moment.

A layup to Lauren Van Kleunen with just over a minute remaining gave them a two-

point lead, but a costly foul from Giliam put Frankston’s Tori Jackson on the line.

Jackson made the first but missed the second, forcing Frankston to foul Bell on the other end.

They then committed another that was deemed unsportsmanlike, which put Taylah Simmons on the line for two free throws, and critically, regained Casey the lead.

They were forced to commit another on Bell, but with nerves of steel she sunk both with one second remaining to secure their second victory of the season.

Four players scored in double figures for the Cavs in an even spread, led by Esra McGoldrick’s 21-point, 10-rebound double-double.

The men weren’t afforded quite the same possibility in either of their weekend contests, suffering a pair of double-figure losses.

Missing Malcolm Bernard, the Cavs fumbled a lead at the start of the final quarter in a flat finish on Saturday against Nunawading, where they were outscored 21-8 in the final 10 minutes.

The Cavs scored just 28 points in the entire second half, falling away dramatically after a strong first half to finish down 72-87.

Preston Bungei was forced to carry the load once again, scoring 20 points and grabbing nine rebounds, but shot the ball poorly (7/22) in an inefficient display.

Requiring a fast start against Frankston the following night, the Cavs were slow out of the gate, ending the first half with a 12-point deficit.

They were crushed on the glass, allowing too many second chance points due to a -15 offensive rebound differential.

Sidy Djitte grabbed 18 rebounds but the next highest individual total was Mason Perry with three.

While they managed to win the final quarter of the contest, the 20-point deficit at the end of the third quarter proved insurmountable, as Frankston came away with a 90-78 win.

Without Bungei and Jack Perry to compound the Bernard absence, they simply did not have the necessary firepower to slow Frankston down.

Mitchell Riggs led the team in scoring with 17.

Kilsyth are the next assignment on Saturday night.

Late Mackinder goal seals the deal for Beaconsfield

By David Nagel

Beaconsfield has once again tasted the pure exhilaration of winning a tight, tough game of football after the Eagles prevailed by eight points against Wantirna South on Saturday.

Holm Park Reserve was a tense and nervous place to be, until Sam Mackinder kicked a goal at the 24-minute mark of the final term to secure a 9.14.68 to 9.6.60 victory in Eastern Division One.

The Eagles, who snatched a last-minute victory over Mooroolbark last week, are now the proud owners of a 4-2 winning record and sit in third place on the ladder.

Beaconsfield coach Mick Fogarty had the luxury of making only one change heading in, with Michael Cameron taking the place of Kye Rowland.

It was the first time that Fogarty had made less than three changes for the season, but his stable line up faced a tough test against the fired-up Devils.

Neither team conceded an inch in the opening term, with the Eagles taking a ninepoint lead to the first change courtesy of their inspirational skipper Jake Bowd.

But - if the first quarter was dour - the second term was clearly where the most exciting football was played.

Hayden Brough opened the scoring with his ninth goal for the season, early in the second stanza, before the teams went goal for goal.

Each time that Brough and Tylah Stokoe – twice each – would put the Eagles 15 or 16 points in front, the Devils would answer,

and the visitors would eventually end the exchange with two late goals to take a onepoint lead to half time.

A total of 18 goals were kicked for the match…with 10 coming in the second term.

The two teams reverted to an arm-wrestle in the third quarter, with goals to Jafar Ocaa and Cameron providing Fogarty and his team with a six-point buffer at the final change.

NickBeamesgavethevisitorshope,squar-

ing the ledger early in the last, before Ocaa once again delivered at the perfect time.

His fifteenth goal for the season gave the Eagles back the lead, with the Devils answering, before Mackinder put the icing on the cake.

The Eagles have now had three wins in corresponding games that they lost last year, and have set themselves up for a real crack at playing finals.

There’s a long way to go – with six-consecutive losses through June/July last year very much testament to that – but Fogarty’s team is certainly on the right track.

Livewire Devon Smith was superb for the Eagles on Saturday, while Stokoe, Damien Johnston and ruck Paddy Gerdan were instrumental figures through the midfield. The Eagles face another rib-tickler at home this Saturday, hosting Monbulk in a battle for second place on the ladder.

· BEACONSFIELD 1.4 5.8 7.11

9.14(68)

· WANTIRNA SOUTH 0.1 6.3 7.5

9.6(60)

Beaconsfield Goals: H. Brough 2, J. Ocaa 2, T. Stokoe 2, J. Bowd, S. Mackinder, M. Cameron. Best: D. Smith, T. Stokoe, D. Johnston, P. Gerdan, J. Mounter, C. Wassylko.

Wantirna South Goals: L. Hewett 3, K. Barlow 2, N. Beames, M. Jordan, R. Fandrich, P. Wallis. Best: L. Noy, J. Smith, B. Kainey, L. Bain, D. Cromb, N. Beames.

Results R6: Bayswater 19.7.121 def Croydon

9.10.64, Lilydale 3.13.31 def by Mooroolbark

20.15.135, Montrose 14.20.104 def North Ringwood 4.10.34, Mitcham 8.11.59 def by South Belgrave 10.21.81.

Ladder: South Belgrave 24, Montrose, Beaconsfield, Mitcham 16, Mooroolbark, Bayswater, Wantirna South 12, North Ringwood 8, Croydon 4, Lilydale 0.

Fixture R7: Beaconsfield (3) v Montrose (2), South Belgrave (1)

Bayswater (6), Wantirna South (7) v Lilydale (10).

v Mooroolbark (5), Croydon (9) v Mitcham (4), North Ringwood (8) v

Patrick Gerdan played a huge role in the ruck in Beaconsfield’s narrow victory over Wantirna South on Saturday. 328967

Picture: GARY SISSONS

Rachel Bell made some huge shots in close moments for the Cavaliers over the weekend.

333279

Picture: ROB CAREW