News - Berwick Star News - 25th May 2023

Classic Cortina

Mixed budget bag

By Matthew Sims

Local Labor MPs have welcomed a number of projects outlined to be delivered in the 202324 State Budget, while Berwick MP Brad Battin has hit out at a number of budget cuts and the State Government’s decision to remove payroll tax exemptions for more than 110 independent schools as a “desperate and heartless tax grab”.

NarreWarren North MP BelindaWilson said local schools were among the highlights of the budget, with $24.2 million allocated for upgrades at Hallam Secondary College, including a competition-grade gymnasium, a new administration building and a new Year 7 to 9 building and a $310,000 investment at Fleetwood Primary School to upgrade the toilets, water fountains and fences.

“Every family should have a great local school to send their kids to,” she said.

“Our investment in upgrades to Hallam Secondary College will increase enrolment capacity by 225 spaces – exactly what our growing community needs.”

Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas praised a number of funding commitments, includ-

ing a $50,000 investment to the Hampton Park Uniting Church, a $50,000 allocation to Casey Radio, $1.2 million for upgrades to Grices Road Recreation Reserve and a $550,000 investment to Hampton Park Tennis Club.

“Our local sporting clubs are the heart and soul of our community,“ he said.

Mr Maas said the State Government was also proud of the State Government’s $400,000 commitment to the Tamil Festival over the next four years.

“Narre Warren South is home to so many proud, diverse communities - who have given so much to our area for so long,“ he said.

South-Eastern Metropolitan MP Michael Galea said another highlight of the budget was a new comprehensive women’s health clinic at Casey Hospital, providing care and support for conditions like endometriosis, pelvic pain, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), perimenopause and menopause.

“We’re giving women’s health the focus, funding and respect it deserves with a new women’s health clinic at Casey Hospital,” he said.

Mr Galea said the budget also outlined the

construction of three new schools across Berwick - Clyde North Primary School (interim name), Clyde North Secondary College (interim name) and Thompsons West Primary School (interim name).

“We’ll make sure that wherever local parents choose to send their kids to school, they have access to first-rate facilities,” he said.

However, there was no mention of three new schools promised at the 2022 election - Clyde Creek North Primary School, Clyde Creek North Secondary School and Ballarto Road Primary School.

South-Eastern Metropolitan MP Lee Tarlamis said another highlight of the budget was the $70 million upgrade to Thompsons Road in Clyde North, which includes upgrading the intersection of Thompsons Road and BerwickCranbourne Road.

“A new intersection at Thompsons Road and Berwick-Cranbourne Road will get drivers out of traffic and home to their families, sooner and safer,” he said.

Berwick MP Brad Battin hit out at the budget funding “cut“ the Clyde North police station, which was initially pledged in 2018, as well as the cut of funding for the Clyde North

Fire Rescue Victoria station.

“With thousands of new families in the area and the community concerned about crime, it is heartless of Labor to cut a desperately needed police station to make people feel and be safer in their home, on the street and in their community,” he said.

Mr Battin said the Berwick Churches Soccer Club was another promise broken by the State Government, with $1.2 million pledged days before the state election.

“There are no new sports facilities planned in the Berwick electorate by Labor, this will impact on access to sports and reduce the opportunities for young people to build strong relationships and be more resilient to mental health and other health concerns.”

Mr Battin said the Government’s decision to removing payroll tax exemptions for independent schools would penalise struggling families.

“This desperate and heartless tax grab will see jobs go, increase pressure on the cost of living for many families and will push some schools to choose to cut costs or increase classes, both resulting in worse outcomes,” he said.

Curtis Earnshaw with his modified Cortina. 335460

Picture: GARY SISSONS

Recognising contributions

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

The time has come for the South East to get its “fair-share” of Order of Australia Honours.

In the past five Honours lists from 2021, residents in the seat of Bruce have been drastically under-represented.

The electorate, which includes parts of Greater Dandenong and Casey, was awarded 10 medals – seven OAMs, an AM, a Conspicuous Service Medal and an Australian Police Medal.

That’s just two medals per list – three times less than the Victorian federal electorate average.

Across 39 seats in Victoria, there were 1349 awards in the same period – an average of 34.5 per electorate.

Bruce MP Julian Hill has called for a campaign involving Greater Dandenong and Casey councils to better promote the awards.

“I’m shocked at just how underrepresented our community is in the Australian National Honours system.

“Every day of every year people in our community do extraordinary things. Yet do not get

deserved recognition in the Order of Australian Honours lists.

“I suspect part of the problem is there are not enough nominations going in, and it’s also possible that multicultural communities and leaders are not being adequately recognised for their contributions.

“More effort is needed to ensure worthy nominations are being submitted highlighting the contributions of local people.”

He called on more residents to nominate “local heroes”.

“The only way to change that is to nominate local heroes for national recognition. You’ve got to be in it to win it!

“Let’s work together locally, speak up and nominate so we get our fair share and see more people from Casey and Greater Dandenong recognised with Australia Day Honours. Nominate, nominate, nominate!”

Greater Dandenong mayor Eden Foster said the statistics reflect a similar struggle for nominees in the council’s own Australia Day awards.

“We want our residents to be showcased. I’ve been trying to encourage our current

Fake infringement notices

Casey Council has advised local car owners to keep an eye out for counterfeit infringement notices, with fake notices found on cars along Melverton Drive in Hallam recently.

Casey Council has confirmed its parking compliance team did not issue the infringement notices and upon further inspection, the barcodes on the tickets do not follow the same ticket layout and car-

ries incorrect information regarding its authenticity.

The parking team have conducted two patrols of the area.

To report a fake infringement notice or to check the validity of an infringement received, contact the council’s Parking Compliance Officer on 9705 5200 or email caseycc@casey.vic.gov.au.

award winners to nominate others for all of the great work that is happening.

“I think it’s the humility of the people in our community. They get on with the work they do with commitment and don’t think about being nominated.

“We have to get thinking about who has made significant impact or been a big gamechanger in our lives.”

Cr Foster said there was a lot of “unstructured” volunteering that was unheralded.

“We have one of the lowest rates of (reported) volunteering.

“But some of the time, it’s your mums and dads volunteering at sports grounds or local agencies but it might not be officially recognised.”

Nominations for Order of Australia honours can be made via an online form.

Just include a short case on the nominee’s outstanding qualities, service for others, their fields of excellence and lists of other awards.

Up to four referees can be listed.

Details: gg.gov.au/australian-honours-andawards/nominate-someone-award

Four teens arrested in Clyde

Police have arrested four teenagers alleged to be fleeing from a stolen car in Clyde in the early hours of Tuesday 23 May.

Police said they had received reports of a suspicious vehicle at a car park in Casey Fields on Morison Road just before 4am.

A check of the vehicle confirmed the car to be stolen and matched a car believed to have been involved in an aggravated burglary at a fast-food store on Berwick-Cranbourne Road earlier in the morning of Tuesday 23 May.

Local police co-ordinated the police re-

sponse, calling in the Dog Squad and uniformed and plain clothes units to cordon the area.

Police said as they moved in, the driver of the car reversed over car park bollards, disabling the car, as they tried to flee.

With the help of the Dog Squad, police arrested the four female occupants of the car aged between 16 and 19 years of age.

Police said the teenagers are currently assisting police with their inquiries.

Stay close, go further. VISIT GIPPSLAND

Mark Briggs

The phone call comes in at the break of dawn. The boats have docked with our fish, and we know it’s just been caught. More than using what’s in season, we get the freshest produce at their best. We serve East Gippsland on a plate, inspired by the amazing ingredients at our doorstep.

Sardine Eatery & Bar Paynesville, Gippsland

Natures Organics managing director Justin Dowel, of Narre Warren North, was awarded an OAM in January. 316755 Picture: ROB CAREW

Roads budget blitz

By Emily Chapman Laing

Casey residents may be fighting against the roadworks for a long time to come as the State GTovernment has committed to continued road improvement.

Road upgrades will receive an enormous $694 million in funding through the Andrew’s Labor Government 2023/24 budget.

Local road safety upgrades will receive $61.6 million in funding.

In Casey, the Thompsons Road intersection will receive part of the $694 million dedicated to improving roads in major growth corridors across the state.

The new intersection will be a $70 million project.

In Cardinia, Gembrook Primary School will soon see the installation of electronic variable speed signs as part of the local road safety initiative.

The road blitz will also include the ongoing removal of level crossings across Victoria.

The Andrew’s government has announced plans to remove 110 level crossings by 2030.

The road bridge project at Camms Road in Cranbourne is one such example.

“We’re doing what matters for Victorian commuters: removing level crossings, providing more transport connections than ever before, and building the road and rail projects we need to keep our city and state moving,“ said Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Jacinta Allan.

On the downside, the Clyde Road project

has been cut from funding.

The upgrade was meant to include additional lanes, intersection upgrades and upgraded pedestrian and cycling paths.

New lights, drainage, signs and landscaping were likewise to be introduced.

State Member for Berwick, Brad Battin MP says Labor has failed to deliver for the Casey community.

Man, 35, arrested post-fire

Detectives from Dandenong Family Violence Investigation have arrested a man after a house was set ablaze in Narre Warren South last month.

Emergency services were called to attend Pledger Close in Narre Warren to reports of a fire about 8pm on 23 April.

When police arrived, a man believed to reside at the address ran from the scene.

Firefighters extinguished the fire. No one was inside the house at the time.

Officers cordoned the area and searched for the man, but he was not able to be located.

“They continue a pattern of waste and mismanagement and it is our community that is punished,“ he said.

“I challenge the so-called Local Labor MPs to live local, so they understand the impact of cutting funding to our roads.

“As a local myself who travels daily on these roads, I know what is important to you, because it is important to me.”

A crime scene was established and police continued their investigations. The following evening police received information from the public and with the assistance of the dog squad, Investigators arrested the man near parkland in Narre Warren South.

A 35-year-old man was subsequently remanded in custody.

‘Pay more, get less’: Uncertain future for road projects

By Corey Everitt and Matthew Sims

The Federal Government may halt the progress of local road works as it conducts a 90-day review into the nation’s $120 billion infrastructure pipeline.

The Clyde Road upgrade in Berwick and the McGregor and Racecourse Road upgrades in Pakenham are among the Victorian projects that may be stalled as no new contracts to progress works will be entered during the 90-day review without the direct permission of the Federal Government.

The majority of works in Victoria have already entered their main construction stages.

However, Clyde, McGregor and Racecourse road works are in their early work stages, with their main construction stages all set to begin later this year.

The upgrade to Clyde Road is planned to add an extra lane for both ways between Princess Freeway and Kangan Drive, while also upgrading their intersection through Clyde Road as well.

The project would also upgrade the freeway intersections to improve access on and off the Princes Freeway, build new shared walking and cycling paths and upgrade existing shared walking and cycling paths and install new street lighting, road signage, drainage and landscaping.

Early works were underway, the full construction to begin later in the year, whether this will project will continue is now up to the Federal Government review.

The $250 million Clyde Road Upgrade has been delayed by up to 12 months with $41.5 million cut over the forward estimates.

Berwick MP Brad Battin said he was concerned the infrastructure review and the lack of a mention in the Federal Government’s bud-

get would allow the project to fall by the wayside.

“It’s a way to write off projects you don’t want to do,“ he said.

“The growth corridors who need the most funding will pay.

“They will pay more and get less.“

The Pakenham Roads Upgrade project, which includes the works for McGregor Road

and Racecourse Road, is currently in Phase 1, with the main construction started for extra lanes on Princess Freeway and upgrades to exits and entry ramps on to Healesville-Kooweerup Road.

The second and third phases are the upgrade to MacGregor and Racecourse Road, respectively.

With the the main construction to be renewed over the course of the year, the Federal Government’s review has now made the future of these two works uncertain.

State Transport and Infrastructure Minister Jacinta Allan said the government was being open about the situation.

“While this national review is undertaken, we’re being upfront with our contractors, workforce, and the public, and following the direction from the Federal Government,” she said.

“We’ll continue to advocate for Victoria to get its fair share of infrastructure funding from the Commonwealth, after being shortchanged by the former Liberal government for a decade.”

If the work sites in these projects are to be halted, the State Government would temporarily move the workers to other ongoing projects across Victoria.

Berwick MP Brad Battin has hit back at the Federal Government’s 90-day infrastructure review adding onto ongoing delays for the Clyde Road upgrade project. 335863 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Labor has dedicated $694 million to upgrading Victorian roads. 336051

THE LOWDOWN Q&A

with Quarters Primary School assistant principal Penny Denton

What do you love most about your job?

I love that working in education no two days are ever the same! My role involves curriculum development which is very rewarding and something I am really passionate about. I have loved visiting other schools and researching evidence-based practices to help design the curriculum at QPS. The big reward is then seeing it enacted in classrooms by our teachers and education support and the ‘light bulb learning’ moments for our students. I love getting into classrooms to work with and alongside our teachers and students.

What is something most people don’t know about you?

I have an obsession with vinyl and Cricutting! Although anyone who has ever received a gift from me is probably aware!

What classes did you teach before becoming principal?

Before I became an Assistant Principal I have taught every year level. As a casual relief teacher, I have also taught art, physical education and Indonesian.

Looking back at when you first entered your current role, what advice would you have given yourself?

That having a big picture vision for the school is essential but know that it will take time. Being part of opening a new school is exciting but comes with challenges and there are so many elements to it. There are some planning and implementation aspects of a new school that happen quickly and others that we are still working on now nearly six months in. Creating the library and building up our resources will take a year or more to establish but we just need to keep reminding ourselves to not worry as it will happen and we will have the school we envisaged even before the school was open. What has been your most memorable moment?

The moment we opened the gates for the first

time and welcomed our students and families to Quarters Primary School. It was so exciting putting faces to the names we had been reading for months and seeing all of our learners coming together for the first time and dressed in the uniform we had only seen on mannequins.

What subject did you enjoy at school?

I really loved English. I particularly liked writing and also a bit of debating.

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

My mum, John Farnham, Michael McIntyre, Graham Norton and Adele.

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

I think probably rice and curry. My mum taught me to cook rice and curry and it’s now a

favourite for my family. So many of our family events have involved delicious rice and curry dishes.

Where is your dream holiday destination?

Anywhere that has beautiful warm weather! I love going to Bali with my husband and children. I also went to Sri Lanka with my mum, dad and brother, which was an amazing experience. Sri Lanka is such a beautiful country to visit.

What has been your biggest achievement?

That’s really difficult to answer as I have had achievements in different areas of my life but I would probably have to say becoming a mum. Bringing up Aidan and Olivia to be considerate and kind young adults has been the most rewarding and challenging achievement to date. What encouraged you to become a teacher?

I think I was genetically hard-wired to be a teacher. Both of my parents were teachers. My grandparents were teachers in Sri Lanka and continued teaching when they migrated to Australia. Five of my aunts and uncles were also teachers and now the next generation of my brother and some cousins have followed suit.

What were you like as a kid?

As a kid I loved playing with my friends and I hated getting into trouble. I was persistent as I found some learning at school difficult; especially Maths. I remember being outside a lot. We loved putting sandpaper in our bike spokes so it sounded like a motor bike, playing forty forty and I loved playing netball, which was something I continued as an adult. Did you always want to become a teacher or was there another career you considered?

I began my working life working in the disability field. I worked in residential care and adult training and support for more than 10 years before going back to uni as a mature age student to become a teacher.

THREE … ways to enjoy the end of autumn

As autumn comes to an end, here are three ways you can enjoy the season before winter sets in.

1

Go for a walk and enjoy the last fire-red, orange and yellow leaves hanging in the trees. If you come across a pile of them, jump in them like a little kid. Or use the leaves to make an autumn-inspired wreath.

2

Make yourself a cup of hot mulled cider, or a boozy hot chocolate and enjoy the autumn flavours.

3

Have a bonfire with friends. Late autumn is the perfect time to enjoy a bonfire, before the winter chill sets in and small bonfires are no longer enough to stave off the cold!

Grab some loved ones and some marshmallows, and enjoy a night under the stars.

Free Kinder: Enrol for 2024

Free Kinder is available for three and four-year-old children in Victoria at participating services.

Free Kinder is available in sessional (standalone) and long day care (childcare) settings, saving families up to $2,500 each year, per child.

At kindergarten, your child will:

• learn language, literacy and numeracy skills through play, art, music and dance

• learn to express themself and make friends in a safe and caring environment

• build skills and confidence before primary school.

Contact your preferred kinder service or local council to learn about how to enrol for 2024.

Visit: vic.gov.au/kinder

Quarters Primary School assistant principal Penny Denton has enjoyed the first phase of the new school in Cranbourne West, after it was launched on Tuesday 31 January. 334736

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Instigator faces jail

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

An“obsessed” jumping-castle company owner who hired arsonists to burn rival businesses “to the ground” has been jailed for up to 11 years.

Dandenong-raised James Balcombe, 58, pleaded guilty at theVictorian County Court to 11 counts of conspiring to commit arson.

He ordered hits on competitors’ industrial premises in Hallam, Keysborough, Tullamarine, Werribee, Warragul and Hoppers Crossing – and even his own shed - to varying effect in late 2016-early 2017.

At the time, the Awesome Party Hire owner was growing a successful business for the first time.

But he became “fixated” and “obsessed” with out-doing his rivals, sentencing judge Stewart Bayles noted on 18 May.

Hired for $2000 a job, the arsonists smashed factory windows, poured petrol and threw Molotov cocktails inside. Many of the fires didn’t take hold, including at Hallam and Keysborough.

During the latter, the owner was sleeping in the premises when he heard a bang and the Molotov cocktail bottle burning outside.

It illustrated the “potential for danger” always apparent in arson crimes, Judge Bayles said.

In contrast, a competitor’s Hoppers Crossing factory, its contents and a truck – in effect the entire business - were completely destroyed, causing a devastating $1.48 million loss.

Among the destroyed items were 110 jumping castles worth $80,000 as well as children’s petrol Jeeps, racing go-karts, a stock racing car, a mechanical bull and a forklift.

The uninsured husband-and-wife couple tried but failed to rebuild their business using their savings. They are now working part-time in child-care.

The damage extended beyond physical property but caused “enormous” loss, suffering and emotional trauma, Judge Bayles noted.

After that job, Balcombe told the arsonist he wanted all jobs done like that.

In Tullamarine, a party-hire van was set alight with fuel and destroyed. Balcombe told his co-offenders he was not happy and unwilling to pay them, due to not burning the factory.

Balcombe ordered his hitmen to re-do failed attempts – up to another two times at some premises.

Finally, Balcombe ordered a fire which destroyed his own business shed in Kangaroo Ground to deflect suspicion. He filed a fraudulent insurance claim for $1.1 million.

After his arrest, Balcombe absconded while on bail toWestern Australia. He was located by Australian Federal Police two years later, sporting a long beard and wig as well as false IDs.

Two of the three co-offenders have been jailed. They were given reduced sentences after undertaking to testify against Balcombe.

Judge Bayles said Balcombe as the“apex” or instigator was the most culpable.

Council’s funds pitch

Regional Development and Local Government Minister Kristy McBain got a tour of Casey Council’s priority projects for funding during a visit on 18 May.

Ms McBain was briefed on council advocacy projects including an upgrade and extension of Thompsons Road from Carrum to Pakenham.

Other priority items for state and federal funding are Casey Fields stage 3, Clyde Road corridor upgrade and the Doveton Pool in the Park redevelopment.

Casey Council administrator Miguel Belmar, chief executive Glenn Patterson, Bruce MP Julian Hill and Holt MP Cassandra Fernando were among the federal minister’s touring party.

Mr Patterson said investment in Casey and the South East would “unlock the economic and urban potential of what is one of Australia’s fastest growing regions” as well as create jobs and boost productivity.

“With more than 5000 new families calling Casey home every year, our growing population needs more investment than ever before.

“We are home to more than 390,000 residents and our population is forecast to grow to more than 550,000 by 2041, so it’s important that we work with all levels of government to ensure that we can continue to respond to the needs of our community and cater for current and future growth.“

Mr Patterson welcomed the Government’s additional $2.57 million in Local Roads and Community Infrastructure program funding to Casey.

“Previous rounds of this program have enabled Council to deliver a diverse range of projects that we may not otherwise have been able to deliver in the same timeframe,“ he said.

“This has included everything from upgrades to recreation reserves, sporting facilities and local roads to restoration of heritage assets and construction of accessible paths and pedestrian bridges –all worthy projects that have resulted in many benefits to the community.”

Mr Hill said the minister was briefed on “Casey’s rapid growth” and the need for federal support for “critical transport and community infrastructure”.

“Kristy is a former mayor in Bega Shire, NSW, leading through bushfire disasters, and understands first hand the power of community advocacy.”

Ms Fernando said Casey Fields, especially the soccer facilities and the upcoming Casey Mini Stadium, was the “pride of our community“.

He noted Balcombe had never been diagnosed or treated for his long-standing mental health conditions, as well as his guilty plea. The accused’s rehabilitation prospects were “difficult to assess”.

Balcombe’s jail term includes 938 days already served in pre-sentence detention. He will be eligible for parole after serving seven years and 10 months.

“This crucial investment will help deliver priority local road and community infrastructure projects in our region, and create jobs and long-lasting benefits for the people of Holt.”

CCTV shows two arsonists flee the scene after igniting a business van at Tullamarine.

Damage caused by one of the arson attempts in Werribee.

A business van damaged after being targeted by hired arsonists.

THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN

Thumbs down

To the brainiacs scheduling major road closures, upgrades and detours, AND then deciding it’s perfect timing to do street gutter/curbside maintenance on said detour road... in peak hour! Absolute debacle!

Thumbs down

To whoever approved the stop go traffic controllers and more works on an already detoured road in peak hour traffic in CranbourneWest! Absolutely ridiculous!!!

Thumbs down

Massive thumbs down to AusNet Services for the lack of working street lighting in Cranbourne North. Have reported and followed up, to no avail.

SOCIALLY SPEAKING

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

Here’s what our readers had to say.

Stuart Barkway

A politician lie… no way….. they promised a hospital in Warragul, and nothing has been mentioned since the announcements to gain votes.

On Thursday 18 May, eight teens were found in a stolen Honda Jazz in Hallam.

Here’s what our readers had to say.

Michael Rogers

Normal day then!

The Cranbourne Chamber of Commerce’s next event on Thursday 25 May will focus on the Cranbourne Revitalisation Project.

Here’s what our readers had to say about it.

Leonard Pyle Lawrence

How to revitalise Cranbourne…. Bulldoze the lot and start again! Bring back and maintain green spaces in and around the city centre.

Peter McKill

First plan of action is to make sure the extra heavy vehicles get sent down Cameron Street as the original plan in the 1950s allowed for.

A “Rent Dramatically Reduced!” sign in the shopping village has caused outrage in

Get moving

By Emily Chapman Laing

A new program is providing Casey kids with fun ways to get active.

Triathlon Victoria, in conjunction with Casey Cardinia Triathlon Squad, has commenced a six-week fully funded program for children 7 – 12 years of age.

Nadelle Legge Victorian State Services Officer, Triathlon Australia says the program is about developing key physical skills in today’s screen-based world.

“A lot of kids don’t get out like they used to, so they’re missing out on developing these key skills,“ Mrs Legge said.

“It’s not about getting them to do a triathlon at the end of it, it’s about getting them moving.

“It’s about confidence.“

For six weeks the kids are participating in sessions based around swimming, biking and running with the aim to get them moving, improve their functional skills and make new friends.

The program is called Mov3 and this is the first time it has been delivered in Victoria.

Mov3 has been rolled out in the Northern Territory and Queensland, and is now finding its foothold in the Casey community.

With only 25 spaces, the program sold out quickly.

Mrs Legge says they have a waiting list of eager participants holding out for the next time Mov3 runs.

Thumbs down

To the intermittent craters on Baxter Tooradin Road that took ages to get fixed if at all.

Thumbs down

To those who speed up Pearcedale Rd where there is a community hall, primary school and kinder all within a hundred meters of each other.

Thumbs down

To the chopper that flies at all hours of the night.

Thumbs up

To Clyde Veterinary Hospital, they are always so caring and welcoming and do a wonderful job. The girls are reception are absolute angels.

the Pearcedale community.

Here’s what our readers thought about it.

Peter McKill

The owners greed drove people out.

McDonalds is opening a new restaurant in Hampton Park.

Here’s what our readers had to say.

Chris Sanderson

We don’t need it nor want it. We have one and it’s not great to begin with.

Cranbourne East mum Amanda Bell shows the true strength of motherhood as she raises her two beautiful daughters from a wheelchair.

Here’s our readers’ responses.

Parabella

Thank you for highlighting diversity in parenthood.

Four to five days a week, Marty Johnson walkshisGreyhoundBusteruptotheHampton Park shops and ties him up outside while he does his shopping. But the pair have been noticeablyabsentfromtheirneighbourhood walks recently, after Buster was attacked at a Parkdale Dog Beach in April.

Here’s what our readers had to say.

Judie Hedrick

We were happy to help Marty, we met him at one of the greyhound walks. So glad Buster is on the mend! We adore our greyhound Evie and would do anything we could to support the greyhound community!

Sessions run at both Casey Fields Athletics Track and Casey RACE, who are offering their spaces free of charge.

Mov3 Coach Charlie Pragnell says the kids have been having lots of fun.

“It’s about teamwork and we’re all working together to have fun,“ he said.

“It’s good to see them grow and develop, to be part of the future and to shape it.“

Mov3 is based around the Sport Australia Physical Literacy Framework.

Activities focus on developing fundamental motor skills that can be transferable to a range of sports.

Participants improve their balance and agility by jumping on two wheels and cycling around a designated course, while enhancing confidence in the water at Casey RACE.

Football star sidelined

Berwick Junior Football Club and Dandenong Stingrays player Elisha Lane has had to put a pause on her football journey.

The 17-year-old footballer recently tore her anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and meniscus and is seeking help to raise $6000 for surgery to get her back on the ground.

Lane has been playing for Berwick JFC and the Dandenong Stingrays since 2019.

“Football has always been a way to destress and put my focus elsewhere,“ she said.

“As a student, it’s always been a healthy outlet and allowed me to prioritise my mental health and physical health.

“Playing football is where I feel my absolute best.“

Lane said it was “heartbreaking“ for her to see her parents stress to pay for her medical bills.

“They are not the type of people to ask for help which is why I’ve taken it upon myself to start this to be able to provide them with the option to receive help to alleviate their stress and get the surgery done, as my parents have done so much for me already, which I am infinitely grateful for.“

“Unfortunately, my family and I do not have private health insurance as we are financially unable to afford it, and the waiting list for the surgery in the public health care system is around two years minimum.

“Being surrounded by the community I have at Berwick is what’s made the injury a lot easier.“

With the surgery estimated to cost

$12,000, the fundraiser had raised $2540 at the time of publication.

Lane said she initially hoped it was a posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injury, as the recovery time would be shorter.

“I injured myself in the first quarter of our second round, I went in for a tackle and after completing the tackle, I was pushed back and while trying plant my feet and regain my balance my knee buckled and I heard a pop and felt instant pain,“ she said.

“I had to be stretchered off and was quite distraught.

“For any athlete who tears their ACL, there is an increased risk of arthritis in the knee, but it also means nine to 12 months of not playing the sport they love.

Lane said the injury had set her back in a number of ways.

“This year, I was really trying my best to improve my skills and fitness to be able to play at a higher level,“ she said.

“The reality of how bad I injured my knee really impacted my mental health due to how much work I had put in before hand.

“The surgery that I will be undergoing is taking a piece of my hamstring and using it to repair my ACL, the pain after the surgery is supposed to be fairly bad, and I will be dependent on my parents to do almost everything for me for the first part of my recovery.“

To contribute to the fundraiser, visit www.gofundme.com/f/fund-for-my-surgery-to-fix-my-acl-and-meniscus.

Three arrested after pursuit

Three women have been arrested in an allegedly stolen car after a police pursuit through the South East.

Police responded to reports of a blue Holden Statesman being driven erratically on Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road, Narre Warren just after 2am on Wednesday 24 May.

During an attempted police intercept, the car didn’t stop and took off at a fast rate of speed.

With the assistance from the Air Wing, police followed the vehicle through a number of suburbs.

Stop sticks were deployed on Railway Parade, Dandenong however the vehicle contin-

ued to speed and drive erratically, police say.

Police allege the vehicle pulled into a car park on Princes Highway, Dandenong when three women attempted to run away.

A 39-year-old from Dandenong, a 45-yearold from Berwick and a 30-year-old from Dandenong were arrested at the scene and taken in for questioning.

The Holden was towed away for forensic examination.

Police say the vehicle is believed to have been stolen during an armed robbery in Noble Park on 12 May.

Any information to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au

Happy Chappy. Berwick. 334124

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

The kids learning bicycle skills. Picture:

Hesitations in

By Matthew Sims

Environmentalists say a proposed school expansion would endanger drivers and pedestrians in the NarreWarren North GreenWedge.

Harkaway Hills College has proposed to double its student intake at 420-432 BelgraveHallam Road by increasing from Prep-Year 8 to an early learning centre to Year 12.

PAREDVictoria launched the school in 2016 with Foundation and Grade 1 in its first year, with only 16 students,

The application on the six-hectare property within a GreenWedge A Zone (GWZA) detailed the school projected it would increase student numbers from 220 to 471 and the number of staff to 46 by 2032, with funding support from the State Government.

Buildings and works would include the construction of classrooms, approval for signage at Belgrave-Hallam Road and minor slip road widening at the intersection of A’Beckett Road and Belgrave-Hallam Road resulting in the removal of native vegetation.

It could also include signalisation at the intersection of A’Beckett Road and Belgrave-Hallam Road “as and if required” to mitigate the impacts upon traffic flow and amenity.

Green Wedges Coalition members Karen Cavanagh and Kate Rousseaux have requested any expansion development should explicitly outline traffic and sewage management actions.

Ms Cavanagh said the proposed extension was too big for the size of the site and they needed exact details about when expansion on Green Wedge land would stop.

“The Southern Ranges Green Wedge is under threat by incremental urban creep,“ she said.

“We say schools and other urban uses should be prohibited in the Green Wedges.

“Schools should be in the urban areas, where the students live.“

Ms Rousseaux said if the Belgrave-Hallam Road application was approved, the Department of Transport and Planning should be required to do a thorough independent analysis and ensure signalisation was a requirement for this application.

“The school should be required to pay for signalisation, including both traffic lights to control the movements of the intersection, and warning lights on either side of the intersection along Belgrave-Hallam Road,“ she said.

“The proposal will have a profound impact to Narre Warren North Primary School as access to both schools face each other.

“An increase of traffic volume will add congestion and put primary school students at a greater risk of a serious injury, accidents or loss of a life.“

Ms Rousseaux said Belgrave-Hallam Road was a busy major arterial road for a large number of vehicles.

“Experts have quoted that the road carries approximately 21,000 vehicles a daily, including heavy vehicles and many B-double trucks,“ she said.

“It is difficult to turn right into Belgrave-

Hallam Road from A’Beckett Road, and traffic currently banks along A’Beckett Road at extreme levels, especially in the mornings.“

Narre Warren North Primary School principal Connie Vandervoort said they had sought clarity around traffic management.

“The Narre Warren North Primary School council are not concerned about the school but would like more information around the traffic management,“ she said.

“We have put our concerns in writing to the City of Casey.“

The application for an expansion followed on from an application from Harkaway Hills College’s sister school Lysterfield Lake College to develop land for a faith-based boys school of 239 students and 22 staff in grazing land on Horswood Road in Narre Warren North in the Casey Foothills, which the Victorian Civil Administrative Tribunal and Casey Council both rejected last year.

In a statement released last October, Lysterfield Lake College said they were considering the decision and would investigate what options were available.

According to Harkaway Hills College’s application, Lysterfield Lake College was preparing a further permit application to Planning Minister for the use of 19-32 Horswood Road at Narre Warren North for use as a school.

EPA wastewater calculations required schools with a multipurpose gym with shower facilities to allow for the treatment of 50 litres of wastewater per student.

Ms Cavanagh said the Green Wedge Coalition believed the school should pay for linking to the town’s mains sewerage system.

“Wastewater dispersal fields cannot be near play areas or near to other uses for obvious reasons and increasing the amount of wastewater represents an environmental risk as the current effluent field is at the rear of the school, on a downward slope, near to a dam, that overflows directly into the upper south branch of Eumemmerring Creek,“ she said.

Green Wedges Coalition co-ordinator Rosemary West said the application represented the problems with allowing non-government schools to be allowed on Green Wedge land and without approval by the relevant council.

“Community groups are really outgunned,“ she said.

Ms West said they would be meeting with Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny on Thursday 15 June to advocate more action in regards to the State Government’s Planning for Melbourne’s Green Wedges and Agricultural Land project.

Harkaway Hills College refused to comment on the application, due to it being before the Planning Minister.

To make a submission to the planning application, visit www.planning. vic.gov.au/permits-and-applications/ ministerial-permits/browse-ministerialpermits?query=PA2201883 or email development.approvals@delwp.vic.gov.au

5945 0600

GreenWedgesCoalitionmembersKateRousseauxandKarenCavanagh. 335923

Pictures:STEWARTCHAMBERS

Thenewbuildingsproposedincludeanadministrationarea,fivenewclassroomsandan amphitheatre. 335923

Little reprieve from costs

By Emily Chapman Laing

Struggling Victorians can expect little respite from the cost of living crisis under the Andrew’s state budget, according to opposition parties.

Premier Daniel Andrews said the budget offers “real relief on the cost of living“.

“We’re doing everything we promised Victorians we’d do – and we’re not wasting a moment getting on with it,“ he said.

While food price inflation rates have slowed to 8 per cent in March 2023 from 9.2 per cent in December 2023, the extra burden is a weight felt by all.

According to the Australian Financial Review, Victorians can expect up to a 31 per cent rise in household power bills from 1 July.

Australians have been subjected to distended household costs over the past year.

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) measures household inflation in Australia.

In the 12 months to March 2023, the CPI rose by 7 per cent.

Gas and other household fuels rose by 14.3 per cent, while medical expenses rose by 4.2 per cent.

Housing costs saw a 9.8 per cent increase.

Recreation costs increased by 8.6 per cent.

Health increased by 5.3 per cent.

Each of these areas have increased over the last quarter as well, painting a bleak picture for Victorians already struggling to make ends meet.

Research conducted by the Salvation Army revealed 75 per cent of parents using their services are living below the poverty line as they fight to maintain housing and daily living costs.

“I have lost 40 kilograms in the last nine months because all my money goes on keeping a roof over my kids’ heads and trying to keep them in a safe place,” a 55-year-old mother told The Salvation Army.

The Salvation Army research found that 93% of respondents in their research are in dire financial situations.

After paying for essential living costs, such as housing, food, utilities, health and fuel, the typical respondent is living on less than $6 a day.

The new state budget has set out a variety ways it plans to contribute to cost of living relief.

Minister for Energy and Resources, Climate Action and the State Electricity Commission Lily D’Ambrosio says the budget will “drive down power bills“.

The Andrew’s Labor Government will tackle bloated electricity bills by funnelling $400 million into another round of the $250 Power

Saving Bonus. One hundred neighbourhood batteries will be installed in an effort to further drive down energy prices.

RegionalVictorians will have access to“fairer“ public transport fares, with regional fares capped at metro prices.

The government will also set aside $50 million for the digitisation of essential government services, to streamline citizen’s communication with important government bodies.

Assistant Treasurer and Minister for Government Services Danny Pearson says Victorians want to get basic tasks done simply and efficiently.

“That’s why we’re working to make Service Victoria a one-stop app for everyday life,“ he said.

“We’re streamlining processes and putting common sense at the front of our services – it’s all about saving time and money for Victorian families and businesses.”

Constituents who menstruate will be delighted to find free period products available in public spaces and government schools.

Fertility care, Veterans and new parents will receive further funding in the new budget.

Apprentice tradies will also get a boost, with $10 million reserved for the delivery of free car registration for bricklayers, carpenters, joiners, electricians, plumbers and other apprentices who rely on their vehicle for work.

Other cost of living changes will offer better access to the natural environment.

“We know cost of living pressures are the reality for many families, so we’re making sure they don’t miss out on exploring the natural environment Victoria has to offer,“ said Minister for Environment Ingrid Stitt.

“With half-price camping in National Parks,

free entry for kids to our zoos and better parks and playgrounds across the state.”

As housing prices and food costs drain the majority of local’s incomes, other parties have said Labors efforts to fight the rising cost of living simply aren’t enough.

Leader of the Opposition, John Pesutto has called Victoria broken under the Andrew’s Labor budget.

“It fails to offer any relief forVictorians when they need it the most and will put Victoria further behind the rest of Australia as a place to work, invest and raise a family,“ he said.

Shadow Treasurer, Brad Rowswell, said this budget will inflict more pain on Victorians already experiencing unprecedented cost of living pressures.

“It’s the wrong budget at the wrong time,“ he said.

“Labor wants to blame COVID, the Reserve Bank and the Federal Government for this brutal budget but only it can take responsibility for this debt driven disaster.“

Shadow Minister for Finance, Jess Wilson said the new budget will punish Victorians.

“At a time whenVictorian households, businesses, workers and home buyers are needing support and cost of living relief, they are instead getting a brutal budget of job cuts, higher taxes and cuts to services,” Ms Wilson said.

“A new property tax means higher rents at a time households are already under enormous cost of living pressures.”

TheVictorian Greens share the Liberals disappointment in the budget allocations.

“The cost-of-living is through the roof right now, and yet this budget will see thousands of jobs axed,“ said Victorian Greens treasury spokesperson, Sam Hibbins.

Government puts million towards building new schools

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

The State Government has kept election promises for free three-year-old kinder, new schools and school upgrades in the 2023-’24 State Budget.

However it has been accused of “taxing” schools and not doing enough to retain “burnt out” staff.

Among the kept promises were $24.2 million over three years for Hallam Secondary College, as well as upgrades at Cranbourne Park Primary School ($1.9 million), Cranbourne East Secondary College ($587,000) and Fleetwood Primary School in Narre Warren ($310,000).

Cranbourne Secondary College, James Cook Primary School, Lyndhurst Secondary College and Rangebank Primary School, which were promised multi-million-dollar upgrades at the state election, received funds for planning.

There is also $573 million for building nine new schools including Clyde North

Primary School and Clyde North Secondary School, Pakenham North West Primary School, Thompsons West Primary School –all to open in 2025.

Planning and early works will begin for Casey Central Primary School, to open in 2026.

Additional stages will also be built at the recently-opened Clyde Secondary College.

However, there was no mention of three new schools promised at the 2022 election - Clyde Creek North Primary School, Clyde Creek North Secondary School and Ballarto Road Primary School.

Six new Tech Schools will be built including in Dandenong and Frankston, joining an existing campus in Casey.

The Government also will add a further $1.5 billion to expand its free three-year-old kinder, Best Start and Best Life programs.

It will support the Coleman Foundation with its Our Place model at Doveton College.

Berwick Liberal MP Brad Battin criticised the Government for “taxing “ independent

schools to solve its “financial mess”.

It had removed payroll tax exemptions from more than 110 independent schools, leading to fee increases for struggling families, according to the Opposition.

“Taxing schools is not the answer to the Andrews Labor financial mess, we know many families are working hard to give their children options in education, and Labor want to penalise them.

“This desperate and heartless tax grab will see jobs go, increase pressure on the cost of living for many families and will push some schools to choose to cut costs or increase classes, both resulting in worse outcomes.”

The Australian Education Union state branch gave a mixed report card, slamming cuts to public school funding and Tafe and the response to teacher shortages.

The Government invested a further $204.8 million in attracting and retaining teachers, and providing more support for pre-service teachers.

However, AEU state president Meredith

Peace said bold reforms and strategies such as retention payments and financial incentives for pre-service teachers were needed.

She praised the nine new schools but questioned how they would be staffed.

“We have many public schools in Victoria right now that do not have fully qualified teachers in front of classrooms.

“Teacher shortages are leaving many students in public schools high and dry without the support they need and contributing to the escalating workloads experienced by existing public school staff, causing them to burn out and walk away from their profession.”

Regarding Tafe, Ms Peace said: “Fee-free Tafe sounds good in a headline. But the reality is, Tafe in Victoria is not funded for the actual cost of course delivery.”

The ongoing rollout of ’Free Kinder’ was bringing many positive changes for children, families and the early childhood education workforce, she said.

Electricity bills are one of the key ways the state government is hoping to provide cost of living relief. Picture: GENERIC

Thousands without support

By Emily Chapman Laing

The Mental Illness Fellowship of Australia (MIFA) has raised concerns about the support available to vulnerable Australians experiencing complex mental illness.

In Casey, 7 per cent of residents report high levels of psychological distress. This equates to more than 30,000 affected constituents.

MIFA says there is little help from either the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) or from other Commonwealth and State/Territory psychosocial programs. Without adequate support, MIFA warns, people with severe and complex mental illness will continue to experience adverse effects, such as homelessness, attempted suicide and marginalisation.

“There is, without doubt, a huge gap,“ MIFA CEO Tony Stevenson said. “It is a national human rights issue.

“Tragically, many governments are continuing to aimlessly kick the can down the road when it comes to funding new investment to support people with severe and complex mental health conditions.“

The state budget, dropped by the Andrew’s government on Tuesday 23 May shows some improvements to be made in the mental health sector. Statewide, $160.2 million has been set aside for drug treatment and rehabilitation.

$156.6 million will fund mental health clinical care facilities. Mental Health Community Support Services will receive a further 90.5 million. The government has also dedicated $10 million statewide to the Mental Health and Alcohol and Other Drugs Renewal Fund.

In Casey, homelessness has risen 44.7 per cent since 2016. A 2016 census reported 1280 homeless people in Casey. Recent data shows the number has skyrocketed to 1852 people.

The rate of mental health issues is substan-

tially higher among people with a history of homelessness (54 per cent) compared to the general population (19 per cent).

Wayss General Manager Shari McPhail says the numbers tell a “chilling story“.

“The number of people entering Wayss Access Point who are experiencing homelessness due to mental health issues has doubled since 2019,“ she said.

“For many, living with a mental illness and accessing and maintaining a stable home can prove difficult.Wayss works closely with mental health agencies and as demand has increased substantially, this can delay and at times deter people from seeking the help they need.“

City of Casey Manager Connected Communities Sara Ball says the council is dedicated to providing support.

“The City of Casey is committed to working with the Victorian Government and local

mental health organisations that provide both community-based and inpatient support to residents with severe mental illness,“ she said.

“Our Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2021/2025 identifies mental wellbeing as a key priority for the Casey community.

“Council is working with local partners and community organisations to address underlying drivers of mental ill health, such as gambling harm, social and affordable housing, and access and inclusion.“

The Andrew’s budget has dedicated $134 million to homelessness services over the next four years, with $67.6 million for Housing First responses and supports. Across Australia, there are 800,000 people living with complex mental illnesses. Mental illness and substance abuse issues are the second largest contributors to nonfatal disease in the country.

Severe mental health conditions also shorten sufferer’s lifespans through the higher preva-

lence of comorbidity. On average, people with severe mental illness die up to 23 years earlier than the general population.

MIFA has united with 40 other organisations to advocate for the Australian governments to rectify the lack of psychosocial support.

The Mental Health andWellbeingWorkforce Strategy 2021-2024 will hopefully help to bridge these gaps. By the end of 2023, the strategy aims to implement and support structural workforce reforms to attract, train and transition support staff across local, regional and statewide mental health services. The development of new and enhanced workforce roles within the industry is also a priority. The Albanese government recently announced their support for Australia’s vulnerable homeless population.

The Minister for Mental Health Gabrielle Williams announced on 18 May close to $10 million in support funds through the Labor Government’s Social Inclusion Mental Health Support Services program.

These funds were split between four organisations, St Mary’s House of Welcome, Uniting Vic.Tas, Jesuit Social Services Connexions, cohealth in partnership with the Inner West Area Mental Health Service and Launch Housing.

Almost $6 billion has been invested in mental health and wellbeing over the past three years by the Australian government, the largest investment in mental health in Victoria’s history. The Albanese government says work is underway on 90 per cent of the Royal Commission recommendations regarding mental health reforms.MIFA is advocating for new community-based supports that are “personled, recovery-oriented, trauma-informed, culturally responsive and inclusive of family and carer support”. MIFA encourage those suffering with complex mental health to join their online community ’Finding North’.

Millions in hospital upgrades retained in State Budget

By Matthew Sims

The State Government has retained a number of its election promises and prior investments across healthcare in the South East in the 2023-24 State Budget, including a new emergency department expansion at Casey Hospital and a redevelopment of Dandenong Hospital.

Released by Treasurer Tim Pallas on Tuesday 23 May, the budget outlined a total investment of $3.04 billion in new healthcare projects.

The Department of Health’s operating statement showed a decrease in operating income of $788 million between the 2022-23 revised budget and the 2023-24 budget, due to 2022-23 funding related to COVID-19 response initiatives lapsing, while operating expenses were expected to decrease by $887 million in 2023-24.

The budget papers outlined the State Government would allocate $78.5 million towards its $320 million Hospital Infrastructure Delivery Fund in 2023-24, which would support

planning, development and land acquisition for new and upgraded hospitals across the state, including the development of a new intensive care unit and a new outpatient clinic at Dandenong Hospital providing better care for the Dandenong community.

The fund would also support the construction of a a bigger and better Monash Medical Centre in Clayton, delivering specialist acute inpatient, maternity and specialist health services for the south-eastern growth corridor.

The budget papers have confirmed the new emergency department expansion Casey Hospital would continue to be funded, with the estimated completion date pushed back to June 2027 at the latest.

The 2022-23 State Budget included a commitment for Casey Hospital to receive a share of $236 million alongside Werribee Mercy Hospital in funding to double the capacity of its emergency department, with a total of $13.55 million estimated to be spent on the projects during the 2023-24 financial year.

The budget also highlighted a $10 million investment towards the Mental Health Capi-

tal Renewal Fund during the 2023-24 financial year, with other mental health initiatives including a further $776 million for critical bedbased services, AOD services, infrastructure, earlier support in community mental health services, better mental health in the workplace and the rollout of the new Mental Health and Wellbeing Act and $77 million towards setting up 50 Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals by 2026 including one in NarreWarren

Other intiatives outlined in the budget included a $256 million investment to support a statewide health-based response to public intoxication and $15 million towards the Safer Digital Healthcare Program for 2023-24, $32 million to get new trainee GPs into the workforce and $20 million for a 12-month pilot program expanding the role of community pharmacists.

In an Australian first, the State Government has pledged to train 40 extra highly-skilled Mobile Intensive Care Ambulance (MICA) paramedics, and we’ll also train and deploy 25 paramedic practitioners.

Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas said

the budget would ensure allVictorians can get the care they need at the right time and place.

“We’re doing what matters – building hospitals and recruiting thousands of healthcare workers,“ she said.

Ambulance Services and Mental Health Minister Gabrielle Williams said the budget outlined a holistic approach to the state’s healthcare system.

“With more ambulances on the road, more resources to train our paramedics and more work to build the mental health system our state deserves, we’re supporting every part of our healthcare system,“ she said.

Opposition health spokesperson Georgie Crozier said the budget failed to outline a plan to fix the state’s “broken“ health system.

“Patient outcomes continue to get worse,“ she said.

“FortheentiretimeLaborhasbeeninpower, Victoria’s health system has rarely met the Government’s own performance standards.

“This government deflects and blames others for the mess it has created.“

MIFA says thousands are going without crucial mental health support.

Picture: GENERIC

Four Figs is full of flavour

Established in 2011, Four Figs cafe is the place to go for locals of Beaconsfield and surrounding suburbs.

The cafe serves mouth-watering food and one of the best coffees in the area. From sweet to savoury options, there is always something on the menu or our special board to make a special day for you.

After 12 years, Four Figs works under new management now.

Nazanin and Ali, the nvew owners, come from the same industry with vast experience in cafe and restaurant work.

They operate Laughing Fox Cafe in Emerald which is a cosy place for locals and tourists for fresh food and great coffee. Their welcoming attitude has brought many new local customers to the Laughing Fox who have turned into loyal, local customers.

They aim to follow the same attitude to please loyal customers and have their continuous support.

“Nazanin is very attentive and soon will be your favourite staff,” said Ali.

“Taking the ownership of a successful business is always a big challenge,” said Ali.

The whole chef team are new in the business and very keen to serve good food to the community.

Richard Johnston, the head chef, has 25 years of experience as a qualified chef.

He has worked in many fine dining restaurants and top-quality cafes around Melbourne. His last job as head chef was at General Food Store, one of the most successful cafes in Emerald with exciting menus changing every eight weeks!

His passion about food has encouraged other team members to present their ideas for daily innovations and delivering new experience to customers. Richard’s philosophy is to make everything in-house where possible.

Sixteen-hour slow-cooked pulled pork is a great addition to our eggs benny or pulled pork burger. His unique hash browns are very popular just after two weeks and we sold over 100 of them on Mother’s Day.

Pickles, jams, purees, sauces and dressings are just part of his house-made items in the cafe. Weekly specials are those items you can always find on our special board.

Customers have shown a great interest in new special items and love to experience more.

The house-made cakes, biscuits and cookies are the next stage at Four Figs.

“Customers will be surprised with our new adventure,” said Ali.

Beaconsfield and surrounding suburbs deserve to experience high-quality sweets from a local cafe. We will soon offer them customdesigned cookies and biscuits for their beloved ones, business meetings or private parties at home.

Four Figs is a fully licensed cafe for a complementary finishing to your dining experience. We can host business meetings, large parties and functions. We are also ready for your catering needs with a high quality food experience.

Four Figs cafe is open 7 days a week from 7.30am to 3pm with kitchen closing at 2:30pm. Bookings and walk-ins are both welcome. You can reach us on (03) 9769 3773.

Claire Williams, Richard Johnston and Nazanin Riahi. 334761

Four Figs. 334761

Claire Williams making a Latte. 334761

Late night hoops a success

By Matthew Sims

South eastern Pasifika youths have been connecting with others and enjoying physical activity as part of an ongoing social engagement initiative.

Run by the Centre for Multicultural Youth’s Le Mana Pasifika project in partnership with City of Casey Youth Services, the Late Night Hoops initiative began as an eight-week pilot program in October of last year, attracting about 90 Pasifika young people.

Le Mana Pasifika project officer DylanWolfgramm said the program had now grown to about 140 young people playing basketball, volleyball or netball or engaging in other activities such as arts and drawing or one-on-one counselling services.

“It’s promoting social connection,“ he said.

“They use sport as a vehicle to drive social engagement with others.

“They’re using it to help with their mental health and wellbeing.“

The program now runs every Friday night from 9pm to midnight at Olive Road Sporting Complex in Eumemmering.

Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas and South-Eastern Metropolitan MP Lee Tarlamis visited the program on Friday 12 May.

Mr Wolfgramm said the group had broadened beyond Pasifika community members to include South Sudanese, First Nations and non-M?ori Pacific Islander young people.

“It has really turned into a community-driven event,“ he said.

Mr Wolfgramm said they have had constructive conversations with Mr Tarlamis and Mr Maas about further funding for the project.

Le Mana Wayfinders secretary assistant Julie Ierome said she has been involved with Le Mana Pasifika for about two-and-a-half years and joined the Wayfinders young leaders program for 15 to 25 year-old Pasifika youth.

“It’s really rewarding,“ she said.

“I think we’ve given young people a safe space.

“I feel like we push them to help them to accomplish their full potential.“

Ms Ierome said the program was also beneficial for young Pasifika people and young people from other cultures to get back in touch

with their culture.

“It’s for young people to reconnect with their roots,“ she said.

“We lose touch with our culture.

“Relearning is powerful.“

Ms Ierome said the program also helped to break through stereotypes.

“We just needed something like

this,“ she said.

“I would have wanted something like Le Mana Pasifika when I was younger,“ she said.

For more information about the Le Mana Pasifika program, visit www.cmy.net.au/ young-people-community/community-connections/le-mana-pasifika or www.instagram. com/lemana.southeast

$310K

South-Eastern Metropolitan MP Lee Tarlamis and Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas visited the program on Friday 12 May. Pictures: SUPPLIED

Le Mana Pasifika staff joined with the MPs.

Le Mana Wayfinders youth leaders.

WHAT’S ON

Berwick Boutique Craft and Food Market

Spend your Saturday at the historic Old Cheese Factory in Berwick.

This lovely venue offers beautifully manicured gardens, a large children’s playground and barbecue/picnic facilities along with plenty of parking.

Step back in time and browse the wonderful and unique crafts and design from local makers and unwind from the week.

Gold coin donation entry, with onsite parking and dogs allowed.

· 34 Homestead Road, Berwick on Saturday 27 May and Saturday 24 June from 9am to 2pm. Melbourne South Ready-Set-Connect

This event brings together service providers with Parents/Carers, Support Coordinators, Teachers and LACS in a fun and interactive speed dating format.

The networking event provides the opportunity for providers to share information about their business and products.

And for Parents/Carers, Support Coordinators, Teachers and LACS, the event helps them keep up to date with current services in their local community and exercise their choice and control.

If you are a support coordinator registered as an event attendee you could win a $100 gift card of your choice proudly sponsored by Australian Health Professionals.

· Cranbourne Turf Club, 50 Grant Street, Tuesday 13 June, 9:45am-12:30pm.

Psychic dinner

Join a group of gifted psychics for a spiritual dinner.

Participants will indulge in their choice of dinner, a psychic reading and interactive spiritual guidance through the evening.

Explore the otherworldly experience of mediumship and clairvoyance.

· 81 Restaurant & Bar, 81 High Street, Berwick on Monday 5 June, 6pm-9:30pm.

Steam Punk Creative Portrait Workshop

Do you ever feel like escaping to a world of steam-powered marvels, clockwork wonders, and fantastical adventures?

If so, award-winning Digital Artist and Photographer, Julie Powell has got just the thing for you! Julie will be hosting a Steam Punk-inspired photography workshop.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this workshop is the perfect opportunity to sharpen your skills and let your creativity run wild.

Participants will be exploring different setups that will transport you straight into the heart of a Steam Punk wonderland.

· Julie Powell Photography Studio, 14 Rosaleen Court,Narre Warren on Sun 28 May 2pm-4pm.

Polynesian Dance Workshop

Would you like to learn Polynesian dance?

Here’s your chance to come have fun, meet new people and have a good sweat.

Bring your gals along and join LetTeine Polynesian Dance!

· The Factory, 65 Berwick-Cranbourne Road, Cranbourne East on Sat 17 June 12:30pm2:30pm.

Magpie Ink ft Elliott and De Goey

You’re invited to see Collingwood’s Jamie Elliott and Jordan De Goey.

The Pies are HOT! And none hotter than these two!

Intimate, personal and COMPLETELY uncensored - the only place you’ll get to hear all the true stories on what’s really happening at the MIGHTY PIES!

From goals after the siren to headline news: all the celebration, controversy, & predictions for The Pies in 2023!

PLUS! Your once in a lifetime opportunity to meet and have your picture taken with two of Collingwood’s modern day favourite sons!

General Admission $49*.

Meet N Greet, Selfie & Show Package $79*.

Tickets available via Eventbrite.

· Trios Sports Club, 30 Grant Street, Cranbourne on Thursday 22 June, 7pm.

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, cost-effective 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, 10.30am12.30pm.

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.

Biggest Morning Tea

Oakgrove Community Centre is hosting a Biggest Morning Tea to raise funds for the Cancer Council.

There will be interactive activities with delicious morning tea for attendees to enjoy.

All proceeds will be donated to the Cancer Council.

Narre Warren Psychic and Wellbeing Expo

Come and enjoy an inspiring and relaxing day with stall holders offering a range of services and products to indulge your senses.

Free workshops throughout the day including mediumship demonstrations, readings: psychic mediumship, tarot, intuitive, readings, massage, crystals, giftware, clothing, books, natural healing and products, jewellery, soy candles and much more.

Purchase tickets at the door: $5 adults, kids aged under-12 free.

· Sunday 23 July 10am to 6pm, Bunjil Place, 2 Patrick Northeast Drive, Narre Warren.

· Oakgrove Community Centre, 89-101 Oakgrove Dr, Narre Warren South on 7 June 10:30am – 12pm.

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 half-price items, making it the perfect time to shop local and support the local economy.

· 4pm and 6pm on 3 June at Autumn Place in Doveton.

Cranbourne Holistic & Psychic Expo

The Cranbourne Holistic & Psychic Expo will feature psychics, palmists, astrologers and tarot readers as well as alternative health and wellbeing practitioners and associated products and services.

Also featured are ecologically sustainable products.

Make this your big day out!

Speak in person to alternative health practitioners and product suppliers.

Consult a reader on your future possibilities. This will be a great day filled with spiritual exploration and intrigue.

· Cranbourne Public Hall, 166-178 South Gippsland Hwy, Cranbourne on Sun 4 Jun 10am-4pm.

Aiming for hot rod glory

By Matthew Sims

Narre Warren’s Curtis Earnshaw and his family have had a deep love for the Mark II Ford Cortina.

His grandfather and father have both owned and modified the classic car and now the 23-year-old’s done-up 1969 pride and joy, lovingly dubbed ‘Cortyy’, has been named as a finalist in the Milwaukee 2023 Young Street Machine of the Year competition.

The Cortina has come in the top 16 out of 320 total entrants aged between 16 and 24, with the winner set to be announced on Friday 2 June.

Mr Earnshaw said he bought the car in 2019 for $950, which required a bit of work.

“I built my car with my dad and brother,” he said.

“It was pretty old.”

Parts of the body had to be sandblasted to remove the years of rust, with the roof and rear quarters fully replaced by Mayo’s Body Shop in Yarram.

They then replaced the engine with a 1.8-litre engine from a Mazda MX-5 and took Recaro seats out of an Audi A4.

Mr Earnshaw said the car was fully fitted with electric windows and a mixture of custom-designed and second-hand elements.

“I’ve done a full sound system,” he said.

“I think we custom-made the centre console.”

Mr Earnshaw said he had come from a family of car lovers.

“My dad is a jack of all trades,” he said.

“Everything that I know, I learnt from him.

“My grandfather, which I never had the pleasure to know, he always had Mark II Cortinas.”

Mr Earnshaw said he knew he wanted to own one when he first saw one when he was 10.

Now working as an electronic security technician, car modification has become a hobby for him.

“Even as a kid, I loved to play around with electronics,” he said.

Mr Earnshaw said working on the Cortina had helped him get through some mental issues in the past.

“I absolutely love my car,” he said.

“It gave me something to aspire to.”

Mr Earnshaw came in third place in the Cortina at last year’s Shepparton Springnats Go to Woah event, requiring competitors to launch off the starting line and stop at the finish line as quickly and accurately as possible and is planning to compete in this year’s Springnats event.

Street Machine editor Andrew Broadley said the Street Machine team were “blown away” by the quality of the entries.

“This is the second year of the Milwaukee Young Street Machine of the Year Competition,” he said.

“We’re encouraging every red-blooded Aussie motoring enthusiast and Street Machine aficionado to get in there and vote for the winner.”

Voting closes on Sunday 28 May.

To vote for Mr Earnshaw’s Cortina, visit whichcar.com.au/sanity/preview/events/ smoty/young-smoty-vote

Picture: GENERIC

Curtis Earnshaw with his modified Cortina. 335460

Pictures: GARY SISSONS

The 23-year-old is carrying on his family’s legacy of owning and modifying Mark II Cortinas. 335460

The Narre Warren resident’s pride and joy is a finalist in the Milwaukee 2023 Young Street Machine of the Year competition. 335460

Dr top of the class

St Margaret’s Berwick Grammar principal Dr Annette Rome has been recognised as one of the nation’s best principals, earning a finalist spot in the 2023 Australian Education Awards.

Dr Rome is one of nine finalists in the Principal of the Year category for independent schools, reflecting her leadership at the school over the past seven years, along with a distinguished career which spans over three decades in several of Australia’s leading independent schools.

The school’s wellbeing team has also been nominated for Best Student Wellbeing Program in the awards, for the school’s recently developed mental health strategy.

The strategy development was led by Dr Michelle Andrews Luke with on the ground expertise brought by a range of committee members from across the school’s teaching community including Delanie Lewis, Deb Francis, Todd Zadow, Bianca Moran, Brooke White, Phill McConchie, Heather Landman, Jason Skues, Sue Eden and Adam Hands.

Dr Rome said she was humbled to have been nominated and “could not be prouder” of the school’s wellbeing team.

“Wellbeing is a critical focus at our school and it is so important to ensure our young people have the support they need to grow, thrive and have a real sense belong as they

progress through their education journey,” she said.

The nomination in The Educator Magazine’s Annual Awards for Educational Excellence, recognises excellence in a breadth of categories across all Australian schools.

In recent years St Margaret’s Berwick Grammar has been shortlisted for a number of awards, including Best Strategic Plan, Innovation in Curriculum Design and Employer of Choice, nominations that reflect the dedication, commitment and excellence in the School during Dr Rome’s tenure.

The 2023 Australian Education Awards will take place in Sydney in August.

Dumped condom concern Permanent lighting coming soon along O’Shea Road

Police are investigating whether a plethora of condom boxes dumped in Lynbrook could be linked to an ongoing investigation into more than 100 sexually explicit letters being sent to women across southern and eastern suburbs of Melbourne.

The Bayside Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team is appealing for public assistance after a cardboard box containing 88 condom packets was handed into police yesterday.

Investigators have been told the sealed condom boxes were found dumped in wetlands near Patterson Drive in Lynbrook at about 10am on Thursday 18 May.

This comes a day after police revealed they were working to identify an offender who had been terrorising women with crude letters and used condoms in the mail.

The first incident was reported to police on 20 March, with the most recent occurring on 15 May.

Investigators have been told several people attended their local police stations to report the incidents, with upwards of 65 female victims coming forward.

It is believed that most of those who reported the material have received multiple letters, all with the suspected used prophylactics included.

Officers believe the victims are linked and are part of a targeted attack.

Investigations remain ongoing and police are working to identify whether the dumped box is linked to the series of offending.

Anyone with information on the packages, or the recently dumped packets are urged to come forward.

A Berwick resident says leaving the upgraded O’Shea Road without permanent lighting is a safety issue.

Helen D’Amelio said parts of the road were left “really dark” and wanted to push the State Government to take action.

“It should be brought to light,” she said.

“Is it a funding problem?”

Crews have been completing finishing works since opening new and upgraded lanes along O’Shea Road as part of Stage 2 of the Monash Freeway Upgrade

A Major Road Projects Victoria spokesperson said they were working towards turning on permanent lighting soon.

“We’re working with our construction partner, CPB Contractors, and AusNet to turn on the permanent lighting along O’Shea Road in

the coming weeks,” the spokesperson said. “We’ve installed temporary lighting and kept the speed limit at 60km/h to ensure the safety of motorists, pedestrians and crews while these final works are carried out.”

Dr Annette Rome has over three decades experience in Australia’s leading independent schools. Picture: SUPPLIED

Creativity shines through

From building bridges to constructing models of the Eiffel Tower out of aluminium foil, pupils at Brentwood Park Primary School and their parents and loved ones were putting their STEAM and problem-solving skills to the test as part of EducationWeek.

Parents, grandparents and other loved ones visited the school on Thursday 18 May.

Grade 2 classroom teacher Sharlene

Marsche said the visit marked the first major visit from parents after the Covid pandemic.

“It’s the opportunity for the parents to be involved in their child’s education,“ she said.

Running from Sunday 14 May to Saturday 20 May, this year’s theme was ‘Active Learners: Move, Make, Motivate’, celebrating physical activity, hands-on learning and student voice in education.

Grade 2 pupil Lenny Funston welcomed his mum Alex, sister Rosie and grandmother Alison McIntosh during the Education Week visit. 335915 Pictures: MATTHEW SIMS

Grade 2 pupil Ethan He showed his mum Nikki and dad Ethan how to build a tower. 335915

Kiara and her mum Jyobi used problem-solving skills to build a bridge. 335915

Prep pupil Kiara and her mum Jyobi built a bridge during the visit. 335915

Parents and loved ones enjoyed collaborating with the pupils. 335915

Brentwood Park Primary School principal Jim Bell helped teach the Grade 1 pupils how to build a card tower. 335915

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

‘soap opera’

• 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

• 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

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE VODAFONE & OPTUS MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION AT EXISTING HV TOWER AT 41 SAFFRON DRIVE HALLAM VIC 3803

INCLUDING 5G

1. The proposed 5G upgrade will consist of:

• Removal of three (3) existing shared Vodafone and Optus panel antennas;

• Installation of three (3) new Vodafone panel antennas and four (4) new Optus panel antennas (each measuring not more than 2.8m in length);

• The installation of ancillary equipment including mast head amplifiers (MHAs), GPS antennas, antenna mounts, feeders, cabling, combiners and other associated equipment; and ancillary works within the existing equipment shelter.

2. Vodafone and Optus regard the proposed installation as a Low-impact Facility under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 (“The Determination”) based on the description above.

3. In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to: Ben Lavery at Service Stream Limited, 0497 833 252, TPG.Submissions@servicestream.com. au or Level 3, Tower B, Zenith Centre 821 Pacific Highway, Chatswood NSW 2067 by 5.00pm Friday 9 June 2023

4. If you would like to know more about this site, further information can be obtained from www.rfnsa.com.au/3803011

Public Notice

12606999-AP21-23

Public Notice of Proposed Budget 2023-2024

In accordance with section 129 of the Local Government Act 1989 (“the Act”) CaseyCardinia Library Corporation gives notice that it has prepared a Budget for the financial year

1 July 2023 to 30 June 2024 and (updated)

Library Plan 2021-25 including a Strategic

Resource Plan 2023-27 Subject to the Member Councils approval, that:

The Casey Cardinia Libraries’ (CCL) Board will meet at 4 00pm on 13 July 2023, (online) to consider any submissions and to adopt the Budget for 2023-24, and (updated)

Library Plan 2021-25 including Strategic

Resource Plan 2023-27

Copies of the Draft Budget and Library Plan are available for inspection on the CCL website www cclc vic gov au or contact us on 1800 577 548 until 22 June 2023

Written submissions under Section 223 of the Act on any proposal contained in the Budget must be made to CCL by 5 00pm 22 June 2023 CCL will give public notice of its decision in accordance with the Act Submissions addressed to the CEO, Locked Bag 2400, Cranbourne 3977 or email information@cclc vic gov au

Beth Luppino, Chief Executive Officer

Part-Time Telesales Representative Star News Group

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

General Classifieds

ADVERTISERS, in this section are qualified practitioners and offer nonsexualservices.

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

viewed on Council’s website: https://www.casey.vic.gov.au/viewplanning-applications

Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the Responsible Authority. An objection must: •be made to the Responsible Authority in writing to, Manager Planning, P.O. Box 1000, Narre Warren 3805 or emailed to caseycc@casey.vic.gov.au

• include the application number and site address • include the reasons for the objection, and • state how the objector would be affected.

The Responsible Authority must make a copy of every objection available at its office for any person to inspect during office hours free of charge until the end of the period during which an application may be made for review of a decision on the application.

The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before: 12 June 2023

If you object, the Responsible Authority will advise you of its decision.

V Pets & Services ESCORTS R US Ladies Welcome. Mention this ad for $10 discount New Ladies from 5pm www.escortsrus.com.au

• 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

Print and Online Sales Executive Star News Group

Advertise with us and get better results

SPORT

Pakenham Cup under lights

By David Nagel

The Pakenham Cup will be run under lights for the first time in its near 100-year history after the release of Racing Victoria’s (RV) new looking racing calendar for the 2023/24 season.

First won by Mount Pleasant in 1926, the Pakenham Cup has been the feature race for the Pakenham Racing Club (PRC) throughout its storied history.

The race was last run at the old track on Racecourse Road in February 2014, with Captain Fancypantz winning for local trainer Cameron Templeton.

The PRC’s new facility in Tynong conducted its first race-meeting on March 26, 2015, with that year’s cup won by the DarrenWeir-trained Tooleybuc Kid in late April.

In February this year, RV announced key enhancements to the Spring Racing Carnival (SRC), which include the addition of a new Group-1 meeting that will take place a week after the famous four-day carnival at Flemington.

The new race day, designed to give the racing industry a stronger foothold in the sporting landscape in November, has resulted in several key race dates being pushed back a week.

This year, the newThousand Guineas meeting will take place at Caulfield on Saturday 18 November, pushing the Cranbourne Cup back to 25 November.

The Zipping Classic meeting at Caulfield will now be run on 2 December, with the Ballarat Cup – usually a staple of Spring - now becoming a permanent summer fixture, to be run this year on 9 December.

While the two meetings at Caulfield - and country cups at Cranbourne and Ballarat –were set in stone, no date was fixed for the Pakenham Cup, run in the first week of December since that first instalment in 2015.

PRC Chief Executive Officer, Blair Odgers, said the club had worked closely with RV to finalise a new date.

“Put simply, changes to the spring carnival, announced in February, have had a knock-on effect to the Pakenham Cup,” Odgers said.

“We had to work out what that impact would be and we’ve been working with Racing Victoria over the last few months to work through our options.

“A couple of options were presented, including a Saturday in late-December, the 23rd, or alternatively moving it to a Thursday night.

“We decided that Thursday 29 February will be the cup date in 2024, which will give us our first Pakenham Cup under lights.

“As part of that we’ve been working through a support package with Racing Victoria that will provide some long-term benefits to the Pakenham Racing Club to run a Pakenham Cup under lights.”

Odgers said there were several key considerations that went into the decision.

“The obvious one was the commercial impact, being the ability to attract a cup crowd on a Thursday night, instead of a standalone Saturday program,” he said.

“There were also considerations regarding our funding, and the impact on wagering.

“Once we got some assurances around those items, we agreed to the change.

“Racing Victoria is very keen to progress night racing, and the Thursday night series we have been conducting now for a couple of years has been going from strength to strength.

“They were really keen to strengthen that product even further by putting the Pakenham Cup under lights.

“It just took a while to make sure we had the right commercial assurances…and they came.

“We’re comfortable with the decision, excited by the decision; it’s onwards and upwards from here.

“Night racing is our number-one asset and our number-one strength here at Pakenham so it’s great to put our premier

event under lights.”

Odgers said the Pakenham Cup program would be an all-encompassing event with a high-quality support card.

“I can’t say too much at the moment, there are still some things to work through, but we’re looking at a new innovation series that will have heats, into a final, that will culminate on Pakenham Cup night,” he said.

“We also have the Sportsbet Future Stars Series, that we ran for the first time this year, which will also be a heat and final series that will lead to the Pakenham Cup.

“That’s the starting point of a number of discussions we’re having about heat and finals series that will be run on the night…but at this stage a grand final night is a good way to describe it.

“It’s going to be a lot more than just the Pakenham Cup on the night; it’s going to be the culmination of something big.”

Consideration was also made into the distance of the event, with the PRC sticking to the current 2500-metre journey.

“One of the challenges regarding a distance change, particularly under lights, is that we don’t have our 2000-metre chute, or 1200-metre chute lit…yet,” Odgers explained.

“Once those chutes are available for night racing, a discussion can then be held about the

best distance for the cup.

“And one of the key considerations of moving the Pakenham Cup to that date is where the race sits from a staying perspective into the autumn.

“The Roy Higgins Quality will be four weeks after the race, which is a golden ticket into the Melbourne Cup, and the Adelaide Cup is two weeks after the Pakenham Cup.

“The Sydney Cup is six weeks after it, so it places it among some really strong interstate and local staying races.

“We’ll be very interested to see how the Pakenham Cup is used by owners and trainers in respect of those races.

“We can then assess whether that distance is best for the cup long-term, or it’s best to drop back to a middle-distance.”

Odgers agreed that a reduction in crowd numbers for a cup under lights was inevitable.

“It will be challenging from an-oncourse perspective, no doubt,” he said.

“But we do have to acknowledge that the bulk of our revenue comes from broadcast and off-course wagering, and night racing is bucking the trend and showing growth in that area

“We need to look at ways to continue to grow that.”

Beacy and Bulldogs all tied-up after gruelling contest

By Marcus Uhe

The tussle between Beaconsfield and Wandin lived up to all expectations on Saturday as the two sides could not be split after four quarters of intense netball.

The Eagles led the contest at every break before the Bulldogs mounted a stirring comeback in the final quarter.

Trailing by four goals at the beginning of the final term, Wandin outscored the visitors 14-10 to tie the scores at 51 at the final whistle.

Wandin Goal Defence Maddy George engaged in a critical battle with Eagles Goal Attack Zara Treweek, but Treweek’s 36 goals did the bulk of the scoring for the Eagles.

For Wandin, the returning Emmalia Blake put 34 through the hoop, to tie with Olinda Ferny Creek’s Hayley Howard on 163 at the peak of the goal scorer’s table.

Despite not getting the full four points, the Bulldogs remain in first place on the ladder, half a game clear of Narre Warren.

The Magpies made Gembrook Cockatoo’s Ladies Day one to forget with a thumping 42-goal victory overlooking the green nadirs of the Yarra Valley.

The unrelenting Magpies piled-on the pain for the Brookers, increasing their advan-

tage at every break in play in the comprehensive 74-32 thrashing.

Narre Warren’s defenders provided the run and carry from behind where the Gembrook Cockatoo defenders were stagnant on offence.

With only eight players to choose from compared to Narre Warren’s 11, the Brookers were always going to be battling against one of the competition’s pacesetters.

Clare Vearing outscored the women in green with 44 girls of her own.

Since dropping their second game of the season toWandin, they’ve won their last three

matches by an average of 40 goals, nearly doubling their total number of conceded goals in their own goals scored column.

Pakenham celebrated Elayne Schneider’s 150th senior appearance with their first win of the season against Upwey Tecoma 38-25.

With Eliza Molina back in the defending goal circle, a miserly defensive performance saw them concede just four goals in the third quarter and extend their lead from six goals at the half to 13 at the final break, having scored 11 of their own in the third term.

Rose Laidlaw bettered the Tigers’ team total on her own, scoring 28 goals, with Leilani

Pokia chipping in with 10.

Jessica Black was well-contained by Molino, scoring just 13.

At Olinda, the reigning premiers were pushed all the way by a fighting Mount Evelyn side.

The contest remained tight throughout the four quarters with no side leading by more than four goals at any break.

A 26-22 second half in favour of the home side saw them pull away late in the contest thanks to Hayley Howard’s 32 goals, winning 49-47.

Rory Barr matched her output for Mount Evelyn, but Taylah Werner provided a stronger supporting act than her Rovers counterpart Kaila Swindell.

At Berwick, 48 goals from Peri Reid lifted the Hawks to a 12-goal in defeat of Berwick.

Monbulk blew the contest open in the opening quarter by scoring 17 goals to Berwick’s seven, but Berwick responded with a 15-8 quarter of their own.

The Hawks finished the stronger of the two sides over the second half, however, scoring 26 goals to 17.

A grand final rematch between NarreWarren and Olinda Ferny Creek headlines round six’s match-ups.

Pakenham’s Rose Laidlaw keeps Beth Hoskings at bay. 335968

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

The Pakenham Cup will be run under lights for the first time in its history on Thursday 29 February, 2024. 311010

Picture: ROB CAREW

Eagles meet their match

By David Nagel

Beaconsfield’s two-game winning streak in Eastern Division One has come to an abrupt end at the hands of an impressive Montrose at Holm Park Reserve on Saturday.

The Eagles kicked the first two goals of the match but were then outpointed by Gary Ayres’ Demons who prevailed by 47 points, 12.10.82 to 5.5.35.

Anticipation was high heading into this clash, with Beaconsfield, third, taking on the second-placed Demons in front of senior premiership players from 1953 and 2003.

Max Excell – the last surviving member of Beaconsfield’s first-ever premiership in 1953 –was in attendance.

Beaconsfield coach Mick Fogarty had his players fired up in the changerooms prior to the match.

“Embrace the challenge, embrace the pressure of a big game of football,” a passionate Fogarty said to his team before they ran out.

And his Eagles responded early, with Tylah Stokoe winning the first clearance of the match.

Jake Bowd and Hayden Brough both missed chances to the Holm Park Road end of the ground as a light breeze blew towards the outer wing.

It took nine minutes for Michael Cameron to post the Eagles first, with a set shot, before Brough and Bowd combined for the second.

Brough gathered cleanly on the run and delivered a polished left-foot pass to Bowd, who finished clinically with his trusty left boot.

The Eagles led 2.2 to 0.2 after 20 minutes of play.

Several ‘tiggy touch-wood’ free kicks were paid in the opening stanza with the men in light-green determined to make their mark.

Bowd (high left leg) and back-up ruck Casey Wassylko (left ribs) both left the ground towards the end of the first term in worrying signs for Fogarty.

And his mood wasn’t lightened after a late goal to Michael Schwab gave the Demons some reward for a strong finish to the first quarter.

It was the Eagles by six at the first break.

“Boys, our DNA, our pressure all over the ground, started to drop off and our energy

CaseyWassylkoshowedgreatcourageonSaturday,returningtothefieldinthesecondhalfafter receivingabadlybrokennose. 335963

through the midfield needs to lift,” Fogarty pleaded passionately.

Ayres, meanwhile, was equally clear and concise.

“We’re winning the ball, we just need to be clear with our decision making…then concentrate on the execution,” he said.

Centre half back Beau Tennant then did exactly that, winning the ball with a strong grab at wing/half forward, before executing perfectly and patiently to full-forward Tyron Galbraith, who slotted the first of his five goals.

Bowd answered on the run, before the Demons dictated terms in an important fiveminute passage of play.

Galbraith kicked his second, via a free kick, before Dan Chamberlin kicked a ripper on the breeze from the resultant centre clearance.

And when Brad Watson kicked the Demons third in four minutes, from a set shot, the visitors were 14 points up…14 minutes into the second.

At the same time, the Eagles suffered a real body blow with starting ruck Paddy Gerdan leaving the field with a left hammy, while his

back-up, Wassylko, followed closely with a badly-bleeding broken nose.

Bowd marked and goaled a short-time later, and the scoreboard probably flattered the Eagles who trailed 27-34 at the major interval.

Gerdan started the third, but only lasted three minutes, with Jafar Ocaa – who was being well-held by Tennant – assuming the ruck responsibilities, alongside a brave Wassylko.

Montrose kicked out to a 13-point lead, thirty seconds into the third, before Michael Misso found space in the forward 50 to cut the margin back to seven.

That goal, at the eight-minute mark of the third quarter – would be the Eagles last sixpointer for the contest!

Montrose would kick the last six goals of the match, after the pressure increased enormously 10 minutes into the third.

Both teams gave their all, trying to break the others spirit with ferocious tackling and pressure…and it was the Demons who prevailed in the most critical period of the match.

Galbraith somehow steered through a mongrel punt, before the Demons’ ninth proved

the killer blow.

Beaconsfield’s pressure had resulted in a free-kick on the outer wing, with the resultant 20-metre kick missing its target - causing a turnover - and then a dropped chest-mark at the top of the goal-square allowed Galbraith to stroll in for his fourth.

The margin was 21 points – 19 minutes into the third – but it felt like a hell of a lot more!

It was basically game over from that point forward, with the Demons kicking four more unanswered goals for the match.

Galbraith kicked five for the winners, and Sam Rickard three, while Bowd matched that total with three of his own for the hosts.

Brandon White was magnificent for the Eagles down back, taking intercept marks for fun, and the damage would have been far greater in his absence.

Josh Mounter and Harrison Coe were also effective down back, whileWassylko was brave in the second half after the heavy knock to his nose.

The Eagles, who fell from third to fifth - with a percentage drop of 12 – will look to repair the damage when they hit the road this week to take on eighth-placed North Ringwood.

BEACONSFIELD 2.2 4.3 5.3 5.5(35)

MONTROSE 1.2 5.4 9.7 12.10(82)

BeaconsfieldGoals: J. Bowd 3, M. Misso, M. Cameron. Best: B. White, J. Bowd, J. Mounter, C. Wassylko, H. Coe, M. Misso.

MontroseGoals: T. Galbraith 5, S. Rickard 3, M. Schwab 2, D. Chamberlin, B. Watson. Best: T. Galbraith, B. Dessent, J. Mentiplay, B. Tennant, G. Lord, S. Rickard.

OtherResultsR7: South Belgrave 14.12.96 def Mooroolbark 12.8.80, Croydon 8.11.59 def by Mitcham 12.13.85, North Ringwood 5.13.43 def Bayswater 6.6.42, Wantirna South 18.11.119 def Lilydale 12.9.81.

Ladder: South Belgrave 28, Montrose 20, Mitcham 20, Wantirna South 16, Beaconsfield 16, Mooroolbark 12, Bayswater 12, North Ringwood 12, Croydon 4, Lilydale 0.

FixtureR8: Bayswater (7) vWantirna South (4), Mooroolbark (6) v Mitcham (3), Lilydale (10) v South Belgrave (1), Montrose (2) v Croydon (9), North Ringwood (8) v Beaconsfield (5).

Evans preaches patience as Wickers weather the storm

By Marcus Uhe

A brutal stretch in the fixture for Clint Evans’ Berwick side has presented its challenges at Edwin Flack, but the man in charge is preaching patience.

In their last five outings the Wickers have faced four sides that qualified for finals action in 2022, falling short on each occasion, while unable to score more than 50 points. While they have been able to match the ferocity at the contest with their opponents in patches, the inability to stay competitive for four quarters has proven costly.

“We’re in games but then there’s a 15-20 minute block where, unfortunately, they kick us out of it,” Evans said.

“On the weekend that third quarter was fantastic.

“As I said to the boys, at the moment, good sides know when to turn it on and unfortunately at the moment we’re stuck in fourth (gear), and that’s just what good sides do unfortunately.

“With the young list that we’ve got at the

moment, we’re finding it hard to sustain it for four quarters against these experienced sides.”

There must be a litter of black cats and open ladders around Manuka Road, with the casualty ward gaining more and more combatants every week.

No more acutely is the toll being felt than in the forward line, with Harry Money (zero), Jackson Drake (one), Jai Neal (one) and Tim Gunn (one) having played a miserly three games between them.

As a result, Berwick are struggling to put a score on the board, despite holding their own at the other end of the ground.

Charlie Muley has at times played a lone hand in the forward line, having kicked goals in all but one contest and leading the goalkickers list on 11.

Jonty Andrew and Kyle O’Sullivan, tied on four, are the next highest.

“If you look at our side, there’s only (two) sides that have kicked over 10 goals against us,” Evans said.

“We’re putting our effort into young Muley and Braedyn Bowden who are both 20-yearold kids, and we’re playing in Premier Division of Eastern and thinking that they’re going to be our keys.

“If you put the other four in that I said, these guys would be getting the fifth or sixth best defender, but at the moment they’re getting the top two.

“They’re battling away really well at the moment but it’s been hard for them.”

The return of leaders in Travis Tuck and Tom Brennan, who only played their third and second games of the season respectively on Saturday, will provide valuable guidance and resistance for the young outfit.

“We’ve played all the top sides in a row after round three, and for the most part we’ve done pretty well, but we’re that little bit behind them,” Evans explained.

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335962 Picture:GARYSISSONS

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There’s no knocking Narre

By Marcus Uhe

Narre

Warren has sent a stark reminder to the rest of the Outer East’s Premier Division: we’re not going anywhere.

Saturday’s clash with Gembrook was a true danger-game; a plucky underdog with nothing to lose and riding a wave of confidence against the seasoned professionals working their way back to their best form.

The ideal way to answer the critics? A dominant 89-point win in a contest that was as onesided as it sounds.

Only a four-goal-to-three final quarter in favour of the Brookers saved them from the embarrassment of a triple-figure margin.

When Hayden Dwyer opened his account on senior debut after 10 minutes, it set in motion a rapid 15 minutes in which the Magpies kicked the next five.

With seven goals to two in the second term, the Magpies went in for the kill, and all-but put the contest to bed by the long break.

Four goals in the opening 10 minutes of the quarter granted the black and white brigade a 44 point lead, seemingly out of nowhere.

At the heart of the assault was Tom Miller, who was simply everywhere the contest demanded.

There was simply nothing that GembrookCockatoo could do to stop the onslaught, as Narre Warren raised the bat for their hundredth point midway through the third term.

Will Howe kicked three in the quarter alone

to cap a successful return from a hamstring injury, the first of three Magpies to reach a handful, followed by Riley Siwes and Tom Toner later in the contest.

Frustrations were getting the better of the home side, as Toner was marched 100 metres up the field from centre-half-back to centrehalf-forward thanks to a double 50-metre penalty.

Where Narre Warren had options both in the air and at ground level, the same couldn’t be said for their opponents who were too reliant on their keys to hold their marks.

14 goals to just three in the middle of the game reflected the disparity between the two sides: one a premier of the competition’s second division, the other the cream of the competition’s crop in 2022.

Much of the last quarter was margin-watch, and Toner did his best to breach the 100-point barrier.

He kicked his fourth and fifth of the game, including a bomb on the run from within the centre square to complete the handful.

Gembrook-Cockatoo kicked the last couple to ensure the gap remained in double-figures.

Only Wandin’s round one match-up with Mount Evelyn produced a higher individual team total than Narre Warren’s 146 on Saturday.

For Gembrook Cockatoo, Myles Wareham kicked three, while Michael Firrito and JayVerhagen added two each.

Cannons firing things up

By Jonty Ralphsmith

After their first two losses since 2021 came in consecutive weeks, Casey’s women have bounced back and recorded a 2-1 victory over North West Lightning.

Mikaela Davis and Mikayla McDonald each scored field goals to put the women 2-0 up at halftime before a late one to the Lightning closed the margin.

The Cannons dominated much of the contest, but missed some opportunities, including penalties, to extend the lead further.

It’s an issue that’s plagued them in the last couple of weeks and while they emerged with the three points on the weekend, capitalising remains an area of growth. While the visitors’ only goal came courtesy of a defensive error, the backline held up much better on the weekend than in the previous fortnight.

Players were tighter on their direct opponent and the midfield was stronger on the ball.

Club stalwart Fiona Young, who has played more than 700 games, filled in as goal keeper and did a sensational job to lead the defensive effort.

A life member of the club, she played all her hockey in the seniors before deciding to play at a lower level this season.

Usually a field player, she put her hand up to fill the role in the absence of the two firstchoice goal-keepers.

The women’s win is an important one to arrest the losses and keep pressure on the toptwo teams.

Next up, the Cannons expect a physical clash with Werribee which is in the chasing pack.

Meanwhile, for the men, goals to Gurpreet Singh and Elliot Stephens wasn’t enough to see them break their duck as they went down 3-2 to the Lightning.

After being up 2-0, the visitors pipped the

Cannons but there is confidence that a win is around the corner, with the group beginning to gel.

Steve Noney’s men have a strong opportunity to open their account for the season against Werribee on the weekend, whose only win has come against ninth-placedYarraValley.

The men’s and women’s firsts games were part of a series of six games played by Casey at home on Saturday as the club raised more than $2000 for Breast Cancer Network Australia.

Casey ran a raffle, sold cakes baked by the players and fundraised via pink socks and pink travel mugs to raise awareness and money for an important cause.

The women’s seconds and men’s thirds also recorded a win in front of a large crowd.

CANNONS MEN

Results: Eastern Christian Hockey Organisation 1 v Melbourne Sikhs United 5, Casey 2 v North West Lightning 3, Brunswick 0 v Old Xaverians 1, Werribee 2 v PEGS 2.

Ladder: Melbourne Sikhs 15, NorthWest Lightning 13, Old Xaverians 13, PEGS 12, Brunswick 10, Monash University 7, Werribee 5, Eastern Christian Hockey Organisation 4, Yarra Valley 3, Casey 0.

Fixture: Casey v Werribee, North West Lightning v Eastern Christian Hockey Organisation, Yarra Valley v Brunswick, Old Xaverians v PEGS, Melbourne Sikhs v Monash University.

CANNONS WOMEN

Results: Casey 2 v North West Lightning 1, Brunswick 2 v West Vic 3, Werribee 2 v PEGS 1, Knox 1 v Mornington Peninsula 5.

Ladder: Mornington Peninsula 15, Monash University 13, Casey 12, Yarra Valley 9, PEGS 9, Werribee 9, West Vic 7, Knox 6, Brunswick 3, North West 0.

Fixture: WestVic v PEGS, NorthWest Lightning v Knox, Yarra Valley v Brunswick, Casey v Werribee, Mornington Peninsula v Monash University.

Ambitious Buckley Ridges sign two big name recuits

By Marcus Uhe

Buckley Ridges Cricket Club have added a pair of international talents to their playing stocks for the upcoming DDCA season in their quest to go one-better than they have in the last two campaigns.

Sri Lankan test player Roshen Silva and emerging West Indian talent Kadeem Alleyne will both call Park Oval home in the 2023-24 season, the club announced over the weekend.

Silva played 12 test matches for Sri Lanka between 2017 and 2019, averaging 35, with one hundred and five fifties, and has compiled a stunning record in first class cricket with 9600 runs at an average just shy of 50.

The 34-year-old will bring a wealth of experience to Buckley Ridges having played in all types of conditions around the world, from England to New Zealand and all across the subcontinent.

By contrast, Alleyne is yet to consolidate a consistent spot in the West Indian first class scene but brings a reputation as a hard-hitting, seam bowling all-rounder.

The arrivals come in the wake of Mahela Udawatte’s decision to call Hallam Recreation Reserve home, having made the move

from Buckley Ridges.

Udawatte played the last two seasons at Park Oval, hitting 572 runs at 41 in the 2021/22 season and 344 at 28.6 in 2022/23 in campaigns where his side fell short on grand final day on both occasions to Springvale South.

In a 10-year international career for Sri Lanka, the 36-year-old played two test matches, nine ODIs and eight T20s, averaging 35 in 169 first class games.

Hallam Kalora Park fell agonisingly short of a grand final berth in 2022/23, finishing third on the table before a four-wicket defeat at the hands of Springvale South in the preliminary final drew their season to a close.

His arrival adds to a formidable top-order featuring 2021/22 Alan Wookey medal winner Jordan Hammond, veteran Leigh Booth, and playing-coach Matthew Cox.

Booth finished third on the Wookey Medal vote count last season, plundering 434 runs from 11 matches in the homeand-away campaign to finish second for total runs behind Springvale South captain Ryan Quirk.

Cox will continue in his role as playing coach next season.

Will Howe and Tom Miller starred for Narre Warren in their big win over Gembrook Cockatoo. 297197

Picture: ROB CAREW

Mahela Udawatte will join Hallam Kalora Park next season. 271959 Picture: ROB CAREW

Casey raised money and awareness for breast cancer.

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