News - Cranbourne Star News - 22nd June 2023

By Emily Chapman Laing

Homeless duo 34-year-old Scott and threeyear-old Razor were showered with generosity over the King’s Birthday long weekend.

“There’s hope for the homeless,“ Scott said.

Scott and Razor began the weekend on Saturday 10 June sleeping on the street outside Cranbourne Park Shopping Centre, where Scott said the security team had gifted Razor with a bed and his very own security vest.

The weekend ended with Scott and Razor having half a house to themselves after the community rallied to find them a safe haven from the cold.

“It doesn’t actually happen like that really,“ Scott said.

“A lot of people are homeless for different reasons and sometimes you just have to make things visual for other people to see that not everybody out there is looking for drugs.

“They’re actually trying to change, to do the right thing.“

Nicole’s mum noticed Scott when she was working in Cranbourne, prompting Nicole to set up a Facebook post looking for a safe place for him to stay.

“We came back down an hour later, took him soup and a hot chocolate and went through the offers,“ Nicole said.

While Nicole, her mum and Scott’s future housemate Hayley were cautious at first, Nicole said they found Scott to be genuine, kind and not at all predatory.

“I just asked him questions whether he liked it or not,“ Nicole said.

“If he was going to come here to Hayley, I wanted to make sure she was going to be safe and that I wasn’t letting just anyone into her house.

“But he answered everything truthfully and he was fine.“

On Sunday 11 June, local Hampton Park man Robert picked Scott and Razor up and offered them his couch for the night.

“He’s got two kids himself and I felt like it was a test to see exactly what the puppy was like with kids and that sort of stuff,“ Scott said.

By Monday, he was gifted half of a house, which he now shares with Cranbourne single mum Hayley and her daughter.

Over the days since then, donations have been pouring in to get Scott and Razor the household furnishings they need, from couches, to a bed, to TVs, clothes and more.

Nicole said she was surprised when most of the people reaching out to offer Scott a place to stay were single mums.

Scott and Nicole chocked it up to maternal instinct and the fact many of those offering had survived their own traumatic pasts.

Once he found himself on the street, Scott said he was left without options.

“Having a dog it’s hard enough as it is to get a place,“ he said.

“But when your ID is taken from you, you can’t get a house.

“I can’t just go into a real estate and be like ’Hey, give me a house, I have no ID though’.“

Scott said this left him on the street “being watched by everyone and used by everyone“, especially those who “aren’t really homeless“.

“People need to understand not all of them are actually homeless.

Continued page 8

Scott, Razor and Nicole at Scott’s new home.

Picture: EMILY CHAPMAN LAING

Casey crime on the rise

By Emily Chapman Laing

The latest crime statistics show a haunting increase in residential aggravated burglaries in Casey over the past 12 months.

Residential aggravated burglaries have exceeded pre-Covid and 2022 levels, up by 54.3 per cent since last year and by a whopping 125 per cent since 2018.

In Victoria, there was a 30 per cent increase in this crime type, which police said is driven predominantly by youths sneaking into unlocked homes to steal car keys.

“What we’ve seen over time is a shift in the reason aggravated burglaries are committed,” said Deputy Commisioner Regional Operations Rick Nugent.

“Many years ago commonly aggravated burglaries were known to each other, drug debts, drug related, gang related.

“The shift we’ve seen is to get access to keys to top end cars.”

MrNugentsaidinsomepartsofMelbourne, up to 70 per cent of homes broken into are unlocked.

“So we also implore the community to take simple measures such as looking all doors, windows, and gates to help foil opportunistic thieves,” he said.

Casey criminal incidents are up 9.4 per cent per capita from 2022.

However this is a 5.1 per cent per capita decrease on pre-Covid levels.

It is also 29.5 per cent below the per capita the Victorian average.

Cardinia crime is up 6.5 per cent per capita from 2022.

Greater Dandenong saw a steep rise in crime from 2022, up by 18.6 per cent per capita.

Crime Statistics Australia Chief Statistician Fiona Dowsley said “the upward trends observed in recorded crime measures in the last 12 months coincide with a return to pre-pandemic related movements in the community”.

“While there has been an increase in recorded crime measures for the year ending 31 March 2023, the figures remain below those recorded in 2019” Ms Dowsley said.

The data revealed steep rises in various criminal offences within Casey since 2022.

A Victoria Police spokesperson said while overall crime across Casey increased over the past twelve months, it still remains almost 1500 offences below pre-Covid levels.

“Pleasingly, serious crimes such as robberies and car thefts are among the crime that remain below the levels seen before the pandemic,” they said.

“While the overall number of homes being broken into across Casey also remains below pre-pandemic levels, it has increased from last year and local police are focusing on addressing this crime type.

“We continue to urge residents in all areas to consider remember to secure their homes and vehicles.”

TheVictoria Police spokesperson said there are simple routines that people can do to protect themselves including “making it a nightly

routine to lock doors, especially internal doors that lead to garages, parking vehicles in a secure garage, and ensuring keys aren’t easily accessible”.

Car theft is up 17.1 per cent since last year, though there has been a 1.1 per cent decrease since 2018.

Breaches of family violence orders have risen by 17.2 per cent since 2022 and have increased by 40.1 per cent since 2018.

Aggravated robbery in Casey is 40.3 per cent above both 2018 and 2022 levels.

Dangerous driving offences increased by 17 per cent since 2022 in Victoria, but decreased by 11.1 per cent in Casey.

Specific suburbs in Casey were noted as the worst offenders for their rise in criminal activity over the past 12 months.

Cranbourne (11.7 per cent), Narre Warren (15.2 per cent), Berwick (10.1 per cent), Hampton Park (15 per cent) and Clyde North (23 per cent) were all noted in the data as having seen an incline in criminal behaviour.

In Cranbourne burglaries were up 7.2 per cent, but were 17 per cent below the pre-Covid levels of 2018.

Assault and thefts both saw an incline, up 16.2 per cent from 2022 and 9.5 per cent from 2018 levels.

In Narre Warren, burglaries and thefts were up 26 per cent and 28.8 per cent respectively since 2022.

However both were 17.6 per cent below 2018 levels.

Figures also show youth crime climbs

By Matthew Sims

The latest Crime Statistics Agency figures have highlighted a 44 per cent increase in the number of youth (10-17 year old) alleged offender incidents in Casey during the April 2022 to March 2023 period compared to the previous year.

Increases included 38.8 per cent in assault, 66.1 per cent in theft and the number of robberies and breaking and entering incidents more than double last year’s figure.

The statistics showed youth were the highest rating offenders for robberies across the state.

Youths aged 15 to 17 most frequently committed robberies, followed by those aged 10-14.

Burglaries committed by youths aged 10 to 14 increased by 86.7 per cent since 2022.

This age group of 10-17 year olds were also the most frequent victims of robberies.

Youths aged 10 to 14 were responsible for 6,418 incidents In Victoria, an increase of 44.6 per cent since 2022.

Offenders aged 10-24 were responsible for 8.6 per cent more incidents in 2023 than the previous year.

Thedatashowedtherewere19,539alleged offender incidents involving 10-17-year-olds – the highest level in 10 years, while there were 5098 residential aggravated burglaries, the highest level in 10 years and a 30 per cent increase on the preceding period.

Theft from retail stores has risen by 19.4

per cent and motor vehicle theft is up 17.9 per cent year on year.

Youth gang crime continues to be a pervasive issue across Victoria.

“Serious and violent youth crime is another ongoing focus, with Operation Alliance leading to the arrest of around 450 youth gang members a combined total of more than 1,500 times over the past year,“ said Deputy Commissioner Regional Operations Rick Nugent. “Youth gangs remain an issue, however our intense focus on disrupting and dismantling these gangs is reaping benefits,“ he said.

“In the past few years, we have reduced the number of serious and violent youth gang members on our watchlist, with 137 less known youth gang members in Victoria than when Operation Alliance commenced in September 2020.“

Deputy Commissioner Nugent said while the morphology of the gangs has changed with the advent of social media, where youth gangs now encompass kids from a broader range of suburbs, backgrounds and ages, there was still hope.

“When you look at gang related activity for kids, for the most part they end up growing out of it, if they’re lucky,“ he said.

“There’s not too many street gangs that have people older than 19.

“So it’s really about how we can protect them through that period, divert them away and support them.“

However, Deputy Commissioner Nugent noted the numbers around youth offending have dropped year on year “over about ten years“.

“It’s almost half what it was ten years ago,“ he said.

“But what we do know is the small cohort of people that are doing this offending have escalated into serious and violent crime quite quickly at a very young age.“

Police Minister Anthony Carbines said the State Government had invested $4.5 billion intoVictoria Police, including funding to recruit more than 3600 new police officers.

“We’ve also given police strong new powers to target brazen criminal activity, with new carjacking and home invasion offences including statutory minimum sentences for aggravated offences,“ he said.

“It’s important to recognise that only a small number of young people are involved in serious violent crime, and even fewer first-time offenders.

“I want to thank Victoria Police officers for their hard work and dedication in keeping the community safe.“

The State Government’s latest budget prOpposition police spokesperson and Berwick MP Brad Battin said more investment needed to be directed towards supporting young Victorians.

“Every Victorian deserves to be and feel safe in their own home,“ he said.

New Children’s courthouse opens

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

A new specialist Children’s Court designed to focus on “vulnerable children and their families” has opened in Foster Street, Dandenong.

With fast-growing demand in the South East, the new courthouse is expected to relieve pressure on the nearby Dandenong Magistrates’ Court and the Moorabbin Justice Centre.

Attorney-General Jaclyn Symes, who attended the 16 June launch, told Parliament that the focus of the courthouse was “solely on the needs and interests of vulnerable children and their families”.

“That is why the court incorporates prob-

lem solving and collaborative and multidisciplinary practices tailored to the needs of young people.

“The physical design of the court is also tailored to these needs and ensures that there are separate facilities from adult offenders.”

The dedicated courthouse includes three purpose-built children’s courtrooms, including for young people in custody and a Children’s Koori Court.

A secure waiting space called The Cubby House is provided for children under protective care from the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing.

The facility also has five holding cells, meaning children and young people in cus-

tody are kept separate from the adult holding cells at the Dandenong Magistrates’ Court.

For vulnerable court users, including victim survivors of family violence, there is a separate entrance, waiting area and remote hearing facilities.

Police, Victoria Legal Aid, DFFH, Youth Justice and lawyers will have dedicated spaces in the building.

The Dandenong Children’s Court will hear Family Division cases, including child protection and intervention order cases.

The court will also hear cases in the Criminal Division, including bail and remand hearings, committals, youth diversion and Children’s Koori Court cases.

Assaults in the area have risen by 31.4 per cent since 2022 and have succeeded 2018 levels by 3.4 per cent.

Assaults were up 20.2 per cent in Berwick since 2022, but remain 12.1 per cent below 2018 rates.

Thefts (up 24.3 per cent) and burglaries (up 58.1 per cent) have increased compared to both 2018 and 2022 statistics.

In Hampton Park, burglary and theft rates increased by 15.7 per cent and 10.5 per cent respectively since 2022, but remain well below 2018 rates.

Hampton Park showed a 62.9 per cent decrease in burglary and a 30.2 per cent decrease in theft compared to pre-Covid levels.

Assaults have exceeded both 2018 and 2022 rates in the region, up by 5 per cent since 2018 and 26.6 per cent since 2022.

In the growth corridor of Clyde North, assault rates remains the same from 2022, but have increased by 174 per cent since 2018.

Burglaries have risen 33.6 per cent since 2022 but sit 9.6 per cent below 2018 rates.

However thefts have risen above 2018 and 2022 rates, up by 104 per cent and 38.6 per cent respectively.

Robberies increased by 8.7 per cent in Victoria over the past 12 months.

Pre-Covid, robberies were a significant concern for police as they were at decade highs.

However, current robbery rates are a significant 36.8 per cent below the levels seen in the twelve months to March 2020.

Low threat

By Emily Chapman Laing

Crime statistics from Casey’s lower population areas shows criminal offences, particularly theft, have largely declined over the past 12 months.

While Casey as a whole showed a steep rise in unlawful behaviour over the past year, many suburbs saw a drop.

Suburbs reporting a decline in criminal offences since March 2022 include Tooradin (down 20.9 per cent), Blind Bight (44.4 per cent), Warneet (116 per cent) and Devon Meadows (2 per cent).

Suburbs showing an increase over the past 12 months include Pearcedale (up 29.4 per cent), Cannons Creek (53.3 per cent) and Botanic Ridge (50.4 per cent).

Cannons Creek, Botanic Ridge and Tooradin have increased in incidents of criminal activity compared to pre-covid levels, rising 53.3 per cent, 82.3 per cent and 4.8 per cent respectively.

Other areas were below pre-covid 2018 levels as well, such as Blind Bight (down 360 per cent), Pearcedale (18.1 per cent) and Devon Meadows (44.4 per cent).

Burglaries were up 50 per cent in Cannons Creek, 62.5 per cent in Devon Meadows and 40 per cent in Botanic Ridge, while they remained the same in Blind Bight and had none reported for the year in Warneet.

Assaults were up by 100 per cent in Warneet, 500 per cent in Cannons Creek and 25 per cent in Devon Meadows.

They were down by 40 per cent in Tooradin, 85.7 per cent in Blind Bight, 20 per cent in Pearcedale and 18.7 per cent in Botanic Ridge.

Thefts were down in all suburbs excepting Tooradin, which saw an increase of 42 per cent.

Casey’s regional suburbs largely saw declines in their crime rates over the past 12 months. Picture: SUPPLIED

Kicking up a landfill stink

By Emily Chapman Laing

Hampton Park locals remain unimpressed with efforts to quell the pungent odour seeping from the Hallam Road landfill.

In an effort to bridge the community divide, the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) held an informal information session at Lynbrook Community Centre on Tuesday 13 June.

Six tables with a dozen EPA representatives were available for community members to engage with, including odour specialists, landfill specialists, public health officers and permissioning officers.

“My concern is that our child attends a local school that gets impacted by the odour from the tip,“ local resident Chris Lucey said.

“We constantly have to stay inside due to the smell, what is this doing to our long term health, breathing in this toxic stench.“

Residents have claimed mental health distress as a result of the odour, dizziness, nausea, and being unable to enjoy being outdoors at their own homes.

“Veolia doesnt care, its been getting steadily worse since they took over and the EPA take no action,“ Briegh Nish said.

“We call, we lodge reports upon reports of odour and nothing has happened.

“There has been no, real, meaningful or impactful action taken.“

Ms Nish said Hampton Park is “no longer the place for a tip or waste transfer station“.

“The tip needs to close,“ she said.

“Its too densely developed with more and more houses coming.

“It needs be turned into community parkland as promised and waste facilities need to be further away from such densely populated suburbs and their boundaries protected to prevent situations like this in the future.“

Others claim the proximity of residential properties to the landfill was the result of“strategic planning“.

“What we once thought could be rectified by a simple call to the EPA, our plight of a tortuous existence of chronic exposure to harmful landfill gas, so insidious that it fills every room of our homes, and causes misery to every member of our families, we discovered is a result of strategic planning directed by the highest levels of state government and mandated via Sustainability Victoria with the Statewide Waste and Resource Recovery Infrastructure Plan 2018,“ local Dr John Theodoridis said.

Sustainability Victoria (SV) are responsible for the 2018 Statewide Waste and Resource Recovery Infrastructure Plan (SWRRIP) document, which outlines Victoria’s 30-year plan for waste management and responsible landfill operation.

Despite the SWRRIP outlining a proposed system for waste management that “reflects environmental justice principles to ensure that impacts on the community, environment and public health are not disproportionately felt across communities“, SV have said they do not have an active role in waste management in the state. “As SV doesn’t have a role in the management of landfills we are not in a position to add anything further,“ a Sustainability

It’s up to all of us

Victoria spokesperson said.

The EPA issued a remedial notice on 17 February 2023 to improve Veolia’s leachate management, a major contributor to odour emissions.

It requires Veolia to make a series of improvements that must happen by March 2024.

“EPA Victoria has been highly vigilant at Veolia’s Hampton Park site issuing notices that set an enforceable obligation to make improvements,“ saidViranga Abeywickrema, EPA South Metro Region Manager.“EPA is also continuing its work to identify all sources of odour at the landfill, and to hold Veolia accountable for impacts to local community from odour.

“EPA is undertaking an investigation ofVeolia’s landfill gas management to assess whether it is doing everything it can to prevent escape of landfill gas to the local atmosphere and EPA Officers will also undertake an odour monitoring program in residential areas around the landfill.“

With residents routinely reporting healthrelated issues and concerns, the EPA said they acknowledge the distress, however they are not in a position to focus on individual health outcomes. “We appreciate the toll odour takes on a community and the distress that it can cause for some,“ Mr Abeywickrema said.

“That’s why we want Veolia to meet its obligation to community by progressing improvements that prevent odour emissions from Hallam Road Landfill as quickly as possible.

“We always recommend that community who experience any health symptoms consult with their health care provider.“

Residents who have been dealing with the odour issue for the decade since it first became an issue are pushing for tangible action to be taken. The EPA said they will take “further action“ ifVeolia continues to breach the terms of their operating licence.

“Again, we would like to see things happen

faster, but we are moving as fast as the legal framework allows.“

A Veolia spokesperson said the company’s priority is to “protect the local community and environment“.

“Through best practice waste management, and our commitment to engagement, we follow strict government guidelines to ensure people and the planet are safeguarded,“ they said. “As residential properties were built closer to our site over the past 20 years, we actively invested in technology to minimise impacts on neighbours, by installing gas extraction wells and altering the design of our site.“

Veolia said they do not have any control over the extent of the buffer zone between residential properties and the landfill, which opened in 1997 when the required buffer zone was a mere 100 metres.

Currently, the necessary buffer zone for the site as described by the EPA is 250 metres, with a proposed distance of 500 metres.

“We have a longstanding Community Reference Group and are fully aligned with the EPA in their view to address community concerns,“ a Veolia spokesperson said.

“When issues occur, we act quickly and immediately to resolve them.

“We remain focused on delivering improvements and providing transparent engagement to our neighbours.”

The City of Casey have also removed themselves as an operating force in the landfill debacle, until the cessation of Veolia’s licence.

“Any concerns about the landfill’s licensing operations relating to pollution and health concerns should be directed to the EPA, who is the appropriate authority to investigate and take action on such matters,“ Manager Planning and Building, Tania Asper said.

“The EPA applied a 100 metre buffer around the landfill site when it was first established in the early 1990s, and about 15 years later the

EPA extended it to a 500 metre buffer.

“Council does not have the ability to modify the EPA buffers.“

The landfill at 270-310 Hallam Road in Hampton Park is one of Victoria’s largest landfills, accepting household waste and solid inert waste from multiple Melbourne councils.

Currently, it receives 10 per cent of all appropriate waste inVictoria that goes to landfill.

The Hampton Park landfill has been a site of tension in the local community for over a decade, with previous owner SITA being given enforceable undertakings in 2011 by the EPA after odour management failed to meet the standard.

In February 2020, the EPA fined Suez Recycling and Recovery $8000 for breaching a licence condition after they failed to prevent offsite odours from the landfill.

Additional infrastructure was added, and after SUez merged with Veolia in 2022, the company said they were adhering to strict EPA guidelines.

Berwick MP Brad Battin told the State Parliament on 21 September 2022 the City of Casey Hampton Park Hill Development Plan is “not in the interests of local residents“.

“The draft Development Plan has severe repercussions for residents, including significantly reducing the value of their homes and quality of life,“ he said.

Ms Asper said the draft plan is not a proposal to extend the life of the landfill at the site, which has a permit to operate until 2040.

“The landfill is currently filling its final cells and rehabilitation work at this site is expected to start within the next 10 years, over which time that area will be progressively turned into a public open space,“ she said.

“Any future proposed transfer station is likely to be an enclosed design to reduce offsite impacts of noise, dust and smell and will be subject to Council approval through a planning permit application process.

“Following lodgement of the application, traffic impact and other matters will be considered as part of the assessment process.“

Other local politicians join Battin in standing behind the residents affected by the landfill. “I think it comes down to property rights,“ local Liberal Democratic Party Member Stephen Matulec said. “If people buy property and then it devalues the property, I think it’s very unfair. It could have a massive impact on property prices if they want to move.“

South East Metropolitan MP David Limbrick said there is “no doubt“ the smell is “impacting on the quality of life for local residents”. “The EPA has been encouraging residents to submit odour reports so that they can track what’s happening. The bigger picture is that it might be possible in the future to drastically reduce landfill requirements by using waste to energy technology.”

Mr Limbrick said he would encourage the council to start talking to the State Government about waste to energy solutions.

Veolia will be responsible for the restoration of the land and environment for a period of up to 30 years after its closure.

ProtestersoutsideHallamRoadLandfillin2022. 307447

Picture:GARYSISSONS

Protest pack hits Berwick

By Matthew Sims

Calls of“No Smart Cities“ and signs comparing 20-minute neighbourhoods to prisons were a surprising sight for Berwick locals, when a protest group visited the town over the weekend.

Between 100 and 200 locals and representatives from other My Place groups met at Pioneers Park on Saturday 17 June before receiving a police escort to a march down High Street before returning to Pioneers Park for presentations from key voices behind the movement.

Event co-organiser Craig Cole said the event was a success and aimed to warn people about how the Smart Cities framework and the 20-minute neighbourhood initiative would impinge on people’s freedoms.

“It’s something that we have to be aware of,“ he said.

“It’s about restriction and it’s about control.“

Mr Cole’s claims included that the UN were controlling local councils and that the Smart Cities initiative depended on the Voice “going through“.

Speaking at the rally, Mr Cole said it was important for those with similar beliefs and values to come together.

“It’s time to put our petty squabbles, our petty indifferences to the side for the one greater good,“ he said.

“We are making a difference.“

Speaking at the rally, My Place founder Darren Bergwerf said their goal as a group was to challenge governments.

“We are pushing them into a place where it doesn’t matter what they do, they lose,“ he said.

“They’re damned if they do, they’re damned if they don’t.“

According to Casey Council’s website, it first engaged with the community about how to use sensors, artificial intelligence (AI), data platforms and devices to improve efficiency, enhance sustainability and increase the liveability of the region in 2020.

Endorsed by Casey Council in December 2020, the Smart Casey Launchpad program outlines the council’s approach to co-ordinating and inspiring smart city action at a local and regional level.

Initially proposed as part of the State Government’s Plan Melbourne, the 20-minute neighbourhood principle would s where aim to ensure all dwellings are within a convenient 20-minute journey to most everyday needs, such as the goods and services typically found in a local activity centre.

A podcaster and researcher who has been following the movement since 2020 with the Twitter handle @SOS149 said she attended the rally for research purposes.

’SOS’ said local My Place groups, including those in Berwick, Cranbourne and Pakenham, were growing in number and influence and were a “threat to local democracy“.

“They are bigger than people think,“ she said.

“I don’t think they are silly at all.“

SOS said My Place leaders used platforms

such as Facebook and more private forums like Telegram to attract people who may feel afraid of change or feel as if their voices are not being heard.

“This group is very attractive to those kinds of people,“ she said.

Public Facebook group Save the Beaconsfield Reservoir Action Group saw an influx of new members from My Place.

It promoted the Berwick rally on its Facebook page.

“We should all be opposed to government indoctrination and having decisions made for us without public consultation or discussion,“ the page’s administrator posted.

“That is the reason why our community group are opposed to MelbourneWater’s plans for Beaconsfield Reservoir.“

SOS said My Place often supports local issues to attract locals to their cause.

“It’s an opportunity to recruit,“ she said.

SOS said with the fallout from the sacking of the Casey Council in 2020 and the ongoing Operation Sandon IBAC investigation, Casey residents were looking for a change in local government, giving groups like My Place a foothold.

“You’ve almost got a captive audience,“ she said.

“They are a loud minority.“

SOS said she believed while a number of the conspiracy theories My Place members hold and spruik can come off as silly, the online nature of the groups led to them being a breeding ground for hate.

“At their core, they are not good people,“ she said.

“I think that the Internet has a lot to answer for.“

The Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) recently addressed about 100 representatives from councils across the state concerning a number of incidents over recent months, including community action leading to the cancellation of ’drag storytimes’ in Casey and Greater Dandenong and a police presence at a number of council meetings, as well as the closure ofYarra Ranges Council’s public gallery until further notice.

“The ongoing behaviour we have seen at council meetings is threatening and unpredictable and it has no place in our commu-

nities,“ MAV president David Clark said. “It shouldn’t be accepted at any level of government. Councils are right to take a zero tolerance approach, as the people most at risk are often other community members who are in the gallery with the disruptive people.“ Berwick MP Brad Battin said people’s right to peacefully protest was the best part of a “strong democracy“.

“People are entitled to their views, opinions and lifestyles,“ he said.

“As our communities grow, there will always be change and progress to ensure people can live safely in their communities.”

Meeting times petition, page 33

Between 100 and 200 people protested along High Street in Berwick as part of the rally.

Picture: PHOTO CONCEPT PHOTOGRAPHY

Police escorted protesters through Berwick’s main street back to Pioneer Park.

‘Rot in hell’ says family

By Melissa Meehan, AAP

The family of a teen killed with a screwdriver by a birthday party gatecrasher say they want his attacker to “rot in hell”.

Thenow18-year-old,whocannotbenamed for legal reasons, faced the Supreme Court of Victoria on Monday after previously pleading guilty to the manslaughter of 17-year-old Jason Langhans.

Crown prosecutor Jane Warren told the court Mr Langhans, an apprentice plumber and keen fisherman, was acting as a peacemaker at the gate-crashed 16th birthday party

in Tooradin when he was struck in the head in March 2021.

He died three weeks later in hospital.

His attacker was 17 at the time.

Family and friends described Mr Langhans as a “kind and caring” young man who had his life taken away in one fell swoop.

“Who takes a screwdriver to a girl’s 16th birthday party?” his grandparents Cheryl and Peter said in their victim impact statement.

“We wish (his attacker) nothing but pain and suffering for the rest of his life. May he rot in hell.”

His father Paul Langhans wept while tell-

ing the court how he begged for the doctors to “save my boy”.

“I watched him take his first breath when he entered the world and watched him take his last,” Mr Langhans said.

“My heart is shattered.”

The court heard the teen, only referred to as JN, had been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder and paranoid schizophrenia. He had consumed half a bottle of vodka and smoked cannabis before attending the party uninvited, armed with a screwdriver.

He later drove that screwdriver almost 8cm into his victim’s brain.

Psychiatrist Rajan Darjee told the court the teen’s intoxication, coupled with his PTSD and paranoid schizophrenia was not a good mix. The court also heard of the teen’s early life in Afghanistan, his arrival at Christmas Island detention centre and his poor experience at school once he moved to the mainland. The teen was remanded in custody to be sentenced by Judge Elizabeth Hollingworth on 24 August.

· beyondblue 1300 22 4636

· Lifeline 13 11 14

· Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800 (for people aged 5 to 25)

Councils and health officials fail food safety checks

By Mibenge Nsenduluka and Melissa Meehan, AAP

Victorians are at risk of developing foodborne illnesses as some local councils, including Casey, are failing to properly inspect food premises.

A recent audit found the cities of Casey, Greater Geelong, Kingston, Manningham and the Hepburn Shire Council are not complying with their legislative responsibilities to enforce food safety and protect public health.

A damning report by the Auditor-General’s office released on Tuesday also shows public health officials are failing to keep track of which councils are meeting food sampling obligations.

Under the Food Act, councils are responsible for the day-to-day regulation of most food premises across the state.

However, the five audited councils did not properly assess food premises from 2018 to 2022 and inspection ratings were inconsistent, the report shows.

Workforce shortages and the COVID-19 pandemic were blamed for their inability to perform all the necessary checks.

By law, council workers are required to reinspect non compliant food premises or those with complaints against them at least three months prior to registration renewal, which they failed to do.

The Department of Health was also kept in the dark and not properly informed due to councils failing to report essential data.

The audit shows public health officials don’t know which councils are meeting their food sampling obligations.

The department, which is required to provide information and guidance to local gov-

ernment environmental health officers, does not analyse statewide results to assess risks to public health.

An estimated 600 million people around the world fall ill after consuming contaminated food every year and about 420,000 of them die.

There are about 4.7 million cases of foodborne illness in Australia each year, which costs the community $2.4 billion.

In 2021, there were 61,870 registered food premises in Victoria.

The Auditor-General has made three recommendations to councils and seven to the health department, with the vast majority of these accepted.

They include greater collaboration between councils and the department, implementing performance measures and improving consistency in councils’ compliance ratings of food premises.

There are concerns about council inspections of food outlets in Casey.

Picture: DAN PELED, AAP

Violent brute is back in jail

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

A serial violent offender is back in jail after an “unprovoked” attack on a woman living nextdoor in Doveton.

Bashkim Gashi, a 40-year-old cleaner with a long list of priors, pleaded guilty at the Victorian County Court to intentionally causing injury to her in her home.

He was in a car outside as she returned home to meet another male friend in the early hours of 13 March 2021.

Gashi appeared to get upset when the victim told him not to talk to her friend and to get off her property, judge Amanda Chambers noted.

He spat in her face and threw a drink on her. His violence escalated when she hit him in self defence.

Gashi dragged her by the head with his hands around her neck, walked her into her house and threw her to the ground.

He punched her several times causing her to believe he wanted to kill her, as well as spitting on her again.

The victim pointed to a camera on the kitchen bench, telling him to “Smile you’re on camera.” Gashi struck her forcefully to the face with the camera, causing her face to bleed.

His parting words for the victim were she was a “dead girl walking”.

The woman was treated at Dandenong Hospital, requiring surgery for a lacerated lip. She also suffered a swollen cheek, bruised arm and cut finger.

OPINION

Faster internet available

Eligible residential homes and businesses can now connect to faster internet speeds in Berwick, Beaconsfield, Beaconsfield Upper, Clyde North and Cranbourne North.

Good Samaritan

On May 27 I went shopping at Cranbourne Park. I stayed longer than I expected. Because I have trouble with my eyes, I can’t drive in the dark.

I went to my hire car but I couldn’t find it.

I asked an employee if security were still working, I said the car had been stolen. To make a long story short, a woman suggested the guard drive my car and she would drive behind.

I got home safe and I would like to thank all involved.

A big thank you.W

Peter Heywood

In sentencing on 20 June, Judge Chambers said the attack left the victim feeling unsafe in her “dream home”, and wracked by anxiety, depression, sleeplessness and less confidence.

It was hard to understand what triggered Gashi’s violence after previously “amicable” relations with the neighbour, the judge said.

Gashi’s “uncontrolled anger” wasn’t fueled by drugs or alcohol.

Raised in Dandenong, Gashi had a strong work history but a long list of convictions for assaults, family violence, rioting, violent threats, breaching court orders and firearm offences.

In 2019, he was jailed and put on a CCO after pulling a gun during a violent conflict against a person protected by an intervention order.

A further ‘combination’ sentence was not appropriate, particularly given his history of breaching court orders. Past jail terms also didn’t deter him from acting violently, the judge noted.

Judge Chambers noted Gashi hadn’t used illicit drugs since his most recent release from jail in March 2022 as well as his early guilty plea and that he’d been stabbed in custody in 2016.

His rehabilitation prospects were however “guarded” - and the “unprovoked” and “serious” attack on the victim in light of his violent history warranted a jail term with a non-parole period.

Gashi was jailed for up to 21 months, with a non-parole period of 13 months. His term included 363 days in pre-sentence detention.

Memorable event

What a delightful experience it was to witness the LetTeine Polynesian Dance performance at Cranbourne on 17 June.

The dancing, costumes, music and atmosphere of the event were all memorable.

My thanks and congratulations to all those involved in this presentation.

It is so heart-warming to see a group of people celebrating their cultural heritage and sharing the festivities in such a welcoming way towards the audience.

The Polynesian nation quietly goes about enjoying the wealth of happiness of its lifestyle, and in so doing, loudly shames those nations which contribute billions of dollars of their wealth to the international arms race.

Susan Janes

Residents may be eligible to upgrade their National Broadband Network (NBN) connection to Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) or full fibre.

When customers order an eligible plan through their preferred phone and internet provider, they can get NBN fibre delivered to their doorstep.

Full fibre is NBN’s fastest and most reliable residential connection on the NBN network. It can deliver wholesale download speeds of close to one gigabyte per second, which can support things like simultaneous streaming of high-definition video, faster downloading and uploading of large files.

To further expand the benefits of fibre connections, the Federal Government has invested $2.4 billion to enable an additional 1.5 million premises to transition from Fibre to the Node (FTTN) to Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) by 2025 – over 660,000 of which will be in regional areas.

“The NBN is a key investment in the nation’s future,“ Communications Minister Michelle Rowland MP said.

“Since 2009, the network has kept Australians connected, supported tele-health and remote education, and boosted economic productivity by expanding access to new customers for small businesses.

“The Albanese Government is committed to ensuring that Australians get the full benefit of the NBN’s potential by enabling as many NBN lines to access full fibre connections as possible.“

The first tranche of eligible suburbs –

one million premises – were announced by the Government earlier this year.

“The Albanese Government’s investment to expand NBN fibre access is a gamechanger,“ said Holt MP Cassandra Fernando. “This announcement is an opportunity for eligible local families and businesses to enjoy the benefits of a faster, more reliable fibre connection.

“I welcome NBN Co’s commitment to supporting the families and businesses in Holt, and encourage the community to check the NBN website to see whether they are eligible for an upgrade”.

The Albanese Government said they expect around 80 per cent of all regional and remote premises will have access to plans based on wholesale speeds of 100 Mbps or more by late 2025. This was estimated at 33 per cent in March 2022.

It is expected 93 per cent of all Australian homes and businesses will have access to plans based on wholesale speeds of 100 Mbps or more.

As the most reliable residential connection, full fibre provides better support for things like super high-quality streaming, even when more people are online at once.

NBN consumer experience expert Jane McNamara said with more connected devices than ever before, there is increasing demand for faster and reliable internet from homes and businesses.

“The demand for faster and more reliable internet is the highest we’ve ever seen as the way Australians use technology continues to evolve,” she said. “This is being driven by trends such as hybrid work and study arrangements and an increase in online entertainment, such as streaming services and gaming, across multiple devices.“

THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN

Thumbs up

To the local homeschooling community. It’s growing each week. They organise so many catch ups, outings and excursions. This week they did a first aid course at the Cranbourne library.

Thumbs up

To people helping those in need.

Thumbs down

To the drivers who do not respect an emergency vehicle with lights and siren going trying to get through a major intersection, by stopping and or moving to the side, to let them keep moving forward safely.

Thumbs up

To the people who go out of their way to help find and return lost dogs. Thank you.

Thumbs down

To the crap drivers who get their licenses out of a cereal box and don’t know basic road rules.

Thumbs up To Nicole and all the others who helped homeless man Scott and his dog Razor find a home off the cold streets.

Thumbs down

To how racist a lot of people are and how open they are about it.

Thumbs down

To the people who dump rubbish, torch cars, kill wildlife and hoon in our street every week. No help from council or pwwolice.

Thumbs down

The cost of groceries and their continuing price rising!

Thumbs up

To groove train cranny shops they’re the best.

Thumbs down

To roadworks. We’re full of half completed jobs, and no end in sight. Wondering when they’ll finish the first before starting the next.

Thumbs down

When booking hard rubbish being told to keep it nice and tidy and its prohibited from people taking things from your hard rubbish on the nature strip (as stated by council) we should be given more than 2 free collections. I took ours out yesterday nature strip bare today.

Thumbs down

For the poor homeless man living back on the street after being charged & sent to court 5/05 for hitting a female. He’s back in his doona sleeping outside the doors at Casey Medical & cnr of Alexander St.

Thumbs up

To the businesses who took cash cos cash is king.

Thumbs down

To all those businesses adding charges for using Eftpos.

Thumbs up

To the removal of dumped rubbish near us and the provision of natives for our growing reserve and wildlife corridor.

Thumbs up

Casey Council for there continued works along Paterson drive (Barn Barn wetlands).

Thumbs down

For the new Harkaway road layer asphalt. Rates payers money down the drain. It’s like driving on a ladder.Very poor job!

A scarecrow wearing a Collingwood scarf at Berwick Fields Primary School. 342315

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Hoon, scammer sentenced

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

A South East serial hoon who scammed Government disaster aid schemes and treated roads as his “personal playground” has been jailed.

Dylan Desmond Milkins, 23, pleaded guilty to about 50 charges across two years including high-speed police pursuits, Federal aid scams, petrol drive-offs and a New Years Eve burnout in front of spectators on Belgrave-Hallam Road.

Milkins registered an ABN for a fictitious labour-hire and supply business with false GST credits to receive $24,170 in Covid disaster payments in 2021, Dandenong Magistrates Court heard.

He also made a second attempt to extract $24,870 in the same manner.

Milkins also falsely claimed to be living in flood-hit Penrith NSW and Seymour in rural Victoria to gain $1000 in Commonwealth disaster relief and another attempt for $1000.

He told police that he’d come across the “scheme” on social media.

Defence lawyer Elarya George told the court that a regretful Milkins was unemployed due to Covid lockdowns and financially struggling at the time.

He’d repaid more than $9000 owed to the Commonwealth.

Among his illegal driving spree was a 36-second burnout dangerously near spectators in the middle of Belgrave-Hallam Road in Hallam on New Years Eve night, police told the court. As part of the midnight burnout, his passenger lit a series of fireworks and dropped them from his unregistered Commodore.

The incident was said to have terrified dogs inside a nearby pet resort.

Unbeknown to Milkins, a by-stander also walked up to the car, while it produced voluminous smoke and flicked out its rear end metres from the crowd, police stated.

A police intelligence officer discovered video of the episode posted on Milkins’ social me-

dia account. He later told police he believed he was fully in control of his car at the time.

Milkins was also charged over a late-night police pursuit across Narre Warren, Lynbrook, Dandenong, Springvale and Mulgrave, clocking 150 km/h-plus speeds and running a red light in February 2021.

In a second pursuit, the suspended P-plater on bail cut through and overtook traffic at high speed, reaching 160 km/h in the Monash Freeway emergency lane. A police officer called off the pursuit due to the alleged dangerous driving.

In April, he was arrested after breaching bail conditions banning him from driving.

On that occasion, he drove on the wrong side of the road and onto a footpath to evade police in Berwick.

In sentencing on 16 June, Dandenong magistrate Jason Ong noted Milkins had no prior convictions but a “poor” driving history. He’d shown a “blatant disre-

gard for road rules” and treated the roads as his “personal playground”. The disqualified driver put lives at risk with his high-speed driving despite being banned from driving under bail conditions, Mr Ong noted.

The magistrate noted Milkins was still young with “guarded” rehabilitation prospects. Jail was a last resort but Milkins had reached that juncture, the judge found.

At the forefront of sentencing was to send a message to other would-be offenders, Mr Ong said. Milkins was jailed for five months, including 86 days in pre-sentence remand.

It will be followed by two concurrent community corrections orders, including supervision, safe driving programs and treatment for mental health and drug issues. He was also fined $1000 and ordered to repay the remaining $15,450 owed to the Commonwealth.

Milkins was further disqualified from driving for two-and-a-half years.

South East Water breached family violence provisions

By Mibenge Nsenduluka, AAP

A public water retailer will review its policies and compliance after the Victorian regulator found it breached family violence obligations by sharing the personal information of two customers.

The Essential Services Commission on Tuesday 20 June accepted a two-year court enforceable undertaking from South East Water after a probe found the governmentowned retailer failed to protect two separate customers in 2021 and 2022.

South East Water allegedly sent out correspondence with the personal information of customers affected by family violence to the wrong addresses, putting them at risk of harm. The commission also found South East Water failed to publish important information on its website, including its hardship policy and how customers impacted by family violence can get help. In certain situations, customers may be entitled to have debts waived but this information was not made publicly available, the water regulator found.

Commission chairperson Kate Symons

said water and energy businesses were legally obligated to offer support to anyone affected by family violence.

“We take breaches of family violence provisions seriously. Businesses providingVictorians with essential water and energy services must have robust policies and procedures in place to comply with obligations that support and protect their customers.”

The commission’s investigation was launched following a referral from Victoria’s Energy and Water Ombudsman.

As part of the undertaking, South East

Water must improve its policies, training and compliance monitoring. It must also appoint an independent auditor and an independent person with expertise in family violence and water legislation.

The commission introduced family violence protections following the 2016 Royal Commission, which found essential services could be used by perpetrators of family violence to cause harm.

1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732)

Lifeline 13 11 14

Milestone for Bendigo Bank

By Emily Chapman Laing

The MarriottWaters Bendigo Bank branch celebrated its tenth birthday on Monday 19 June.

After the closure of the Cranbourne branch, the Marriott Waters team were excited to hit their decade milestone in the Lyndhurst community.

“The staff have been here all that time, and it’s for what we’ve achieved in the community,“ said Bendigo Bank Business Development Manager Gary Rowe.

“We’ve given about $4 million in donations to the community.“

From sponsoring sport clubs to providing emergency services vehicles to building housing for domestic violence victims, the Marriott Waters branch focuses on getting money back “out into the community“.

“That’s why we’re here, for the people,“ Mr Rowe said.

“Obviously there’s running costs with staff and rent isn’t cheap, but once that’s done our prime reason for being is to give the money back to the community.“

“Everyone gets a little bit out of what we do,“ Bendigo Bank Chairman Malcolm Wells said.

Carolynne Johnson and Ros Guertz have been employees at the branch since its inception in 2013.

“We helped set up the branch before the initial opening and we’ve been here ever since,“ Ms Johnson said.

“About a week ago we did our ten year service.“

Ms Johnson said the MarriottWaters branch is unique in its small-community feel.

“A lot of our customers have been here with us for ten years as well,“ she said.

Branch Manager Chris Wood said the wider Marriott Waters community is also “unique“.

“All of the businesses do what they can to help each other and it’s a great community,“ he said.

Staff

out the

‘Hope for the homeless’: Safe haven found

From page 1

“Some of them are just trying to use the money to get drugs instead of food, then going back to their sharehouse.“

Scott said there are also issues with “undercover cops“ pretending to be homeless to get information on dealers.

Victoria Police were unable to confirm or deny this claim.

The winter weather wasn’t a concern for Scott, who considers himself “a wanderer“.

“I’m used to the weather and I’m pretty outdoorsy,“ he said.

“When I wander sometimes there’s no roof, or walls.

“You’ve always got nature out there.“

Razor came into Scott’s life two years ago, given as a gift when he was 16 months old.

Scott said Razor is an army trained Cane Corso, a security dog who knows his commands and keeps Scott safe on the street.

Now that the duo have the comfort of a home, Razor has gone from alert security dog to a sweet lap puppy.

“When he’s at home he tends not to listen to anything,“ Scott said.

“But when he’s out in the street, it’s all commands.“

On the street, Scott was sometimes approached with disdain from passersby who considered him selfish for having Razor by his side, but Razor wouldn’t have it any other way.

“I can have him off lead and sleep all night, for 12 hours straight, and he’ll still be there in the morning and wouldn’t even leg it,“ he said.

Scott said being homeless and having a pet, people tend to help the pet more than the person.

“Whenever people saw me angry it was

mainly because I turned around to certain people because of they way they handled handing over dog food and the comments they would say with it,“ he said.

“They’d say he needs to make sacrifices, to put Razor in Pets of the Homeless, but they’ll take your dog when you don’t want to be separated,“ Nicole added.

Scott also explained how pedestrians would pat Razor without any caution or permission.

“98 per cent of people will actually walk up and pat him,“ he said.

“I’d have a crack at them because you can’t just pet someone else’s dog.

“Especially his type of dog when you hear all the news about dog attacks, why would you just go up and pat them and then call the council and say there’s a scary looking dog.“

Razor now has two new friends to help him get used to his new home, German Shepherd Mia and Greyhound Stewie and he has grown very fond of his human housemates too.

“As soon as he hears the other housemates voice, he starts sooking for them,“ Scott said.

“He’s trained to look after the family, that’s his role.“

Scott said the one thing he wishes the community would understand about people who live on the street is “some of them are actually trying“.

“And that, you know, some of them turn into psychos because they’re pushed to it, because maybe they don’t have the willpower to control it.

“Some people snap, especially if they’ve got a mental illness, and they’re getting sick of asking for help.

“Sometimes jail is just better, it’s three meals a day instead of sitting there with a hat asking for people to help.“

decked

branch with decorations, rose gold balloons, cakes, slices and alcohol-free champagne.

Mini cupcakes were supplied by Cupcake Central Bakery and smiles were provided by the proud and happy staff.

L to R: Bendigo Bank Chairman Malcolm Wells, Rosina Morris, Gary Landy, Branch Manager Chris Wood, Customer Service Officer Carolynne Johnson, Christine Swanson and Business Development Manager Gary Rowe. 341692

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Removing invasive species

By Emily Chapman Laing

Peter Hermans is a lone warrior in the fight against unwanted weeds and plants in the Warneet bushlands.

In his many hours among the bracken ferns, Mr Hermans has found problematic plant species invading the native vegetation.

Some are introduced species, some are native to Australia but not to the local area, and others are native to south-east Australia but have only recently found their home in Warneet.

Mr Hermans has been weeding reserves in the Casey area for over 30 years.

“Some of them are indigenous or native plants but have just become a problem here,” he said.

“I’ve been over every square metre of these local reserves, eventually you start to make progress, but it’s an ongoing thing because the weeds just keep coming.”

On his days free from work, Mr Hermans will spend half to whole days wading through the shrubs, removing any invasive species.

“When my partner and I first moved here in 1981 there wasn’t a weed problem, really,” he said.

“But gradually over time I noticed these plants starting to grow up.

“I didn’t think much of it for a while and then in around 2000 they started a pattern of burning and that’s when all the weed seeds came up.”

Mr Hermans said over the years he has become an encyclopaedia of local plants, though he still has field guides he can refer to when new species pop up.

“All the angiosperms, the trees and shrubs, I know them all,” he said.

Acacia longfolia, or the Sallow Wattle, is the worst offender according to Mr Hermans.

“They spread really rapidly and they’re everywhere, right through this whole environment,” he said.

They turn into quite large trees and create a

“dense canopy”, and other plant life is unable to thrive in their heavy shade.

“It just shades out all of the other native shrubs.”

In an article for The Conversation, Singarayer Florentine explained Sallow Wattle has become a serious problem even within its geographic range.

“It dominates local ecosystems and displaces native species endemic to the area (particularly in our species-rich heathlands), which affects local insect habitats,” Mr Florentine wrote.

Mr Hermans believes the main vector for the propagation of their seeds is blackbirds and bronze ring pigeons, who he said never used to be in the area permanently but now are more frequent than many native species.

The Bluebell Creeper, a Western Australian plant, “smothers other vegetation”.

AgricultureVictoria lists the Bluebell Creeper as an invasive species.

With a very close look-a-like in the local Apple Berry Creeper, Mr Hermans said it takes skill to differentiate between the two unless they are flowering.

The Boneseed plant and introduced Shell Grass are among the other invaders Mr Hermans has seen pushing their way into

the native vegetation.

“It’s really disruptive,” he said.

Agriculture Victoria noted “dense infestations of boneseed can virtually eliminate native understorey species and reduce the regeneration abilities of native trees”.

Boneseed and Acacia longfolia both thrive after natural disaster, such as fires, which Mr Hermans said the area experienced in the early 2000s.

Mr Hermans said its’ important to keep the vegetation as close to native habitat as possible because “it supports all the other animal life”.

“A lot of things are declining,” he said.

InNovember2019aheatwaveinMelbourne saw temperatures reach 40.9 degrees Celsius.

It was during this time Mr Hermans noticed a lot of birds in the Warneet bushland abandoning their nests.

At the same time, he noticed a decline in the abundance of insects, which are many birds’ main source of food.

“They struggle just to survive themselves, let alone support a hatch of nestlings,” he said.

“It’ll take years before they recolonise this area.”

The thriving blackbirds are an introduced species, which may represent a pressure for native birds, creating competition for resources.

Other locals do their part to combat the spread of invasive plants in the area.

Jason Gura is a member ofWarneet Conservation Group, a group which has been operating for 10 years in Warneet Reserve on the first Sunday of every month from 10am to 12pm at “the old ski beach”.

“It’s mostly removing sallow wattle and bluebell creeper to increase biodiversity,” Mr Gura said.

Casey council said they are also invested in this initiative.

“Council is committed to supporting environmental biodiversity in Casey and helping to maintain a sustainable and healthy natu-

ral environment that supports local flora and fauna,” said Manager Sustainability andWaste, Michael Jansen.

“We are aware of invasive noxious and environmental weeds within bushland areas surrounding Warneet, including Sallow Wattle (Acacia longifolia) and Blue Bell Creeper (Billardiaria heterophylla), which are Australian native species but not indigenous to Warneet.

The council said there are several crown reserves surrounding Warneet, including the Warneet Recreation Reserve, Warneet Foreshore Reserve,Warneet Balaka Street Bushland andWarneet Iluka Street Bushland, over which the council does not have jurisdiction, and which “may have challenges associated with environmental weeds”.

Mr Jansen said the council will “continue to advocate to the Victorian Government as the appropriate authority, to undertake any necessary environmental work to support healthy biodiversity in these areas”.

In late 2022 the council was successful in securing a $110,000 grant through the Victoria Government’s Peri Urban Weed Management Initiative.

The project, which is underway, is being delivered in collaboration with Parks Victoria, Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation and the Friends of Warneet and will focus on managing invasive noxious and environmental weeds withinWarneet Natural Features Reserve and surrounding areas.

“The project also aims to empower the community to partner in biodiversity conservation and restoration initiatives,” Mr Jansen said.

“Council also supports private landowners to undertake environmental restoration works through our Biodiversity Incentive Scheme.”

Mr Hermans said he knows his fight against the weeds is an uphill battle.

“The weeds will win eventually, when I’m not able to do this anymore,” he said.

“No one else is gonna do it.

“I worry for the future

Revitalised Bunjil as council endorses precinct plan

By Matthew Sims

Casey Council has put the future of a revitalised Bunjil Place Precinct into motion by endorsing the Bunjil Place Precinct Concept Master Plan.

At its meeting on Tuesday 20 June, the council approved the concept master plan for the project, which includes potential multi-rise residential apartments, a hotel, hospitality and leisure spaces, wellbeing facilities, a multi-deck car park and enhanced pedestrian access within the precinct.

According to the council, the online survey received a total of 139 responses with community feedback indicating “significant support“ for entertainment and dining uses within the precinct, along with broad support for education, healthcare, youth services and retail uses.

In their submission to the consultation process, the Casey Residents and Ratepayers Association expressed overall support for the proposal.

However, they also raised concerns about access to the precinct, ensuring future traffic, parking and public transport improvements are considered, while also expressing a preference for high-density residential development to be located closer to the NarreWarren train station rather than within the precinct

The council noted the feedback regarding parking availability has been noted and the draft Plan included provisions for any existing carparks to be replaced and consolidated along with new parking for future uses where required.

During public question time, Anne and Gayle Savige expressed their concern with the “inappropriate survey methodology“ and noted their concerns with the availability of car parking and loss of trees and height of future buildings.

During the meeting, administrator Miguel Belmar said the concept master plan would

guide the next steps over the coming decade in line with the aspirations of the community and the council’s planning scheme.

“The feedback generally aligned with the draft concept master plan, with concerns noted around car parking, accessibility, open space and over-development of the precinct,“ he said.

“We will have to replace any car parking that is lost.“

Mr Belmar said another highlight of the master plan was its inclusivity through quality disability access.

“We look forward to seeing it deliver exciting opportunities for the community,“ he said.

“It’s exciting to see what is an underutilised piece of land being envisioned as a major activity centre which will respond to the needs of the community.“

Administrator Cameron Boardman said

the plan outlined plans to make the precinct a “driver for significant economic development“ for the community.

“It is not fit for purpose,“ he said.

“They would love to have other facilities

which would allow them to stay longer in the precinct.“

“It is an exciting piece of work.“

To view the plan, visit conversations. casey.vic.gov.au/bunjil-place-precinct.

An artist’s impression of Bunjil Place looking north-east towards the pedestrian link.

Pictures: MGS ARCHITECTS

An aerial view of the Bunjil Place Precinct concept masterplan looking north-east.

Peter Herman holding a Sallow Wattle.

Picture: EMILY CHAPMAN LAING

Diabetes affecting 1-in-20

By Emily Chapman Laing

Casey residents suffering from diabetes will surely welcome a new inquiry by Australian House Health Committee focusing on the impacts, prevention and management of the disease.

While City of Casey is below the Greater Melbourne, Victorian and broader Australian benchmarks for almost all long-term health conditions, the region fares worse for diabetes.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics Census of Population and Housing 2021 showed 5.2 per cent of Casey’s population suffers from diabetes.

Meanwhile, in the Greater Melbourne area, 4.5 per cent of population are affected by the disease.

In Victoria and Australia more broadly, the benchmark is 4.7 per cent of the population.

Inside Casey’s boundaries, six suburbs stand out with the highest rates of diabetes.

Six per cent of Cranbourne’s population are affected, while in Doveton, 6.5 per cent have the disease.

In Hampton Park, the rate is 6.7 per cent, raised to 6.9 per cent in Endeavour hills.

The two suburbs with the highest rate of

diabetes are Hallam, at 7.2 per cent, and Junction Village, at 8.2 percent.

In 2020, diabetes was in the top ten leading causes of death in Australia, accounting for 10.8 per cent of all deaths.

The likelihood of mortality increases with age and is 1.7 times more likely in males than females.

The condition is 2.4 times more likely to occur in low socioeconomic areas.

Some suburbs of Casey show rates substantially lower than the Melbourne, Victorian and Australian benchmarks.

Clyde North, Clyde and the Casey Coast were among the suburbs with the lowest rates, at 3.9 per cent, 3.6 per cent and 3.7 per cent respectively.

Botanic Ridge takes the win for lowest incidence of diabetes, with only 2.9 per cent of the suburb’s population being affected by the disease.

City of Casey Manager Connected Communities, Sara Ball said the council has an “important role to play“ in the good health and wellbeing of people in the municipality.

“Among other factors, Casey’s Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2021-25 sets out Council’s directions to improve access to healthy and af-

fordable food, reduce harm from alcohol and tobacco, promote active living, help people build supportive social networks, and access services and opportunities to participate in community life,“ she said.

“These supports can assist the Casey community to address modifiable lifestyle factors that are risk factors for type 2 diabetes.“

Diabetes is the world’s fastest growing chronic health condition, currently impacting approximately 1.3 million Australians.

There are multiple forms of the disease, including type 1, type 2, gestational and other rare types.

House Health Committee Chair, Dr Mike Freelander MP said the committee wants to “better understand the current situation regarding diabetes in Australia“.

The inquiry will examine the “effectiveness“ of current Australian policies and programs and how they aim to prevent, diagnose and manage the condition.

“The Inquiry will be broad and will also look at lifestyle factors and the interaction between lifestyle, Type 2 diabetes, and obesity,“ Mr Freelander said.

“The Committee looks forward to hearing from individuals with diabetes, healthcare

Social programs a win for NDIS participants

Special Care Australia is building resilience, social confidence and happiness in their Group Program participants, who enjoy different activities throughout the month.

Special Care Australia is an NDIS registered company “which provides support to people with special needs in their day to day activities and Supported Independent Living“.

Programs are specifically tailored for people with special needs to enjoy an inclusive and engaging environment.

On Monday 19 June, the group had a last minute change of plans from their expected barbeque program, when the wild winter weather kept the program indoors.

Instead, the group was tasked with making fruit salad.

“In today’s program we had fresh fruit and they had to make fruit salad, it was really fun,“ Special Care Australia Director Chitra Vig said. Each month the SCA team creates a new plan for activities and programs.

“It’s all a lot of hands on and mostly community engagement activities to get our participants social interaction,“ Ms Vig said.

Last week, the group enjoyed indoor camping. This month they have also visited the National Gallery of Victoria, McClelland Sculpture Park, Mini Golf, the Eureka Towers and Chadstone Shopping Centre.

There are programs for gardening, cooking, sport, music and dance.

“They build resilience, they really benefit from the social interaction and going out in the community,“ Ms Vig said.

“The participants are happy when they engage, they form bonds within the group and the peer-to-peer relationship is very important for them.“

Programs are culturally inclusive, with the group recently enjoying an Italian dining experience and making sombreros as part of Mexican Art and Craft Day.

“We encompass all different cultures,“ Ms Vig said.

“We also have school holiday programs called Yama Group.“

The Yama Group will be visiting Gumbaya world, Scienceworks, Gravity Zone, Werribee Open Range Zoo and many more exciting places over the Term 2 school holidays.

service providers, researchers, peak bodies, the Australian Government, state and territory governments and members of the public to understand new evidence-based advances in the prevention and management of the condition, and the broader impacts of diabetes on Australia’s health system and economy.“

Diabetes Australia has commended the Albanese Government for the“numerous significant initiatives“ in this year’s Budget that will help people living with diabetes.

Diabetes Australia Group CEO Justine Cain said “improving bulk billing, new longer consults with GPs, as well as initiatives to reduce the impact of diabetes-related wounds and amputations will all help people living with diabetes“.

“Bulk billing payments for GPs have been tripled for face-to-face and telehealth consultations with eligible concession card holders and children under 16 years of age,” she said.

Other improvements have come in the form of chronic disease management reforms, a chronic wound consumables scheme, support for First Nations dialysis in regional and remote Australia and new multidisciplinary teams.

“This Budget delivers good news for many people living with diabetes,“ Ms Cain said.

Traffic blitz

Police netted dozens of impaired, speeding and disqualified drivers in the South East during a King’s Birthday long weekend traffic blitz.

As part of Operation Regal, police detected 113 traffic offences in Casey and 105 in Greater Dandenong between Friday 9 June and Sunday 12 June.

Five vehicles were impounded in Casey, while 12 were in impounded in Greater Dandenong.

Most prolific in Casey were speeding offences (69), unregistered vehicles (17), disqualified and unlicensed drivers (9), drink or drug drivers (7),) and seatbelt offences (5).

In Greater Dandenong, there were 36 speeding offences, 20 drink and/or drug drivers, 21 disqualified and unlicensed drivers, 17 unregistered vehicles, nine disobeying traffic signs/signals and seven mobile phone offences.

Operation Regal targeted unsafe driver behaviour believed to be fuelling Victoria’s road toll of 145 as of 13 June.

This is up 37 per cent from the same time last year, and the largest since 2007.

In the lead up, Victoria Police Acting Assistant Commissioner Road Policing, Martin O’Brien said the“amount of trauma on our roads is alarming”.

“We are now at a critical point as to whether we can turn this year around and reduce road trauma – we are doing everything we can, but police cannot do it alone.”

Police identified speeding, impaired driving, seatbelt non-compliance, distraction and disobeying traffic signs and unauthorized driving as contributing factors.

They were a key focus for police during the long weekend operation.

Acting Assistant Commissioner O’Brien said it was “really disappointing“ to see the number of offences detected increase.

“It indicates that many motorists are continuing to take risks on our roads,“ he said.

“The wintery weather can create dangerous conditions on these mountain roads and four-wheel drive tracks, and if you’re unfamiliar with these roads or inexperienced driving them, it can be a recipe for disaster.

“We would advise motorists to monitor the conditions and avoid travelling on these roads if you’re unequipped or it is unsafe to do so – you’re better to play it safe than be sorry.“

Dolly (supervisor) and Zorowar giving fruit salad the thumbs up. 342073

Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

Dolly (supervisor) and Micki making fruit salad. 342073

Melissa with Mohan (service delivery manager). 342073

Pratham (support worker) with Wim holding a cup of fruit salad. 342073

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Image is artist’s impression only. Subject to change.

Image is artist’s impression only. Subject to change.

Centre celebrates 30 years

By Sahar Foladi

The Southern Migrant Refugee Centre (SMRC) celebrated its 30th anniversary at State Parliament on Friday 16 June just in time for Refugee Week.

City of Greater Dandenong deputy mayor, Lana Formoso, attended as a Council representative.

“As deputy mayor, community member and a child of migrant parents, who sees first-hand the value this organisation has in our community, I wish these services were available when my parents came to Australia.

“It would have improved many of their outcomes and opportunities living and assimilating in Australia,” she said.

The event included Afghan instrumental performance, traditional Chinese song performance and a panel comprising of SMRC staff, volunteer and members from similar organisations.

Cr Formoso said, “I just read recently that we have had a record number of almost 500,000 migrants arrive in Melbourne over the past year post COVID-19 which means services that SMRC provide will be needed more than ever.

“We certainly need to celebrate what organisations like SMRC are having at the grass roots level.”

Ms Formoso presented awards to some of SMRC’s long serving staff members, the longest, Perla Mazie, has served 27 years.

Ms Mazie began volunteering at first with SMRC which became a “second home” to her and now she works as Coordinator.

“It’s very satisfying to know that at the end of the day you made a difference to a client’s day.

“Organisations like this shouldn’t be taken for granted,” Ms Mazie said.

Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards also attended the event along with Narre Warren North MP Belinda Wilson, Labor member for Holt, Cassandra Fernando and South-Eastern Metropolitan MP Lee Tarlamis.

“It was wonderful to be here and acknowledge the three decades it’s very special to be part of,” Mr Tarlamis said.

SMRC has built itself a reputation that’s deeply rooted into the City of Greater Dandenong communities, City of Casey and other parts in the south east.

Mr Tarlamis said organisations like SMRC bridge the gap on information and resources between the government and diverse communities.

“SMRC is one of those special organisations that can reach and access into the community.

“We’re finding a lot of people don’t know about power saving bonus,” he said.

“When we are talking about cost of living and support measures a lot of people don’t know about it, but they can gain that information and more support from SMRC.”

SMRC chairperson Dr Ponniah Anandajayasekeram said the event provided an opportunity to mark an important milestone, to acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of SMRC, its supporters and partners over the three decades.

“We’re really proud to be a part of such a strong and vibrant community and to be an organisation that has continued to adapt and change with the circumstances and needs of our community over the past 30 years.”

SMRC deputy chairperson and Justice and

Freedom for Refugees chair for 30 years, Wicki Wickiramasingham urges community members from diverse backgrounds to become SMRC members for a better cause.

“When I migrated to Australia, I didn’t have any resources.We didn’t know what were available to us, so SMRC is a great point of contact for new arrivals through their settlement services.”

As communities celebrates Refugee Week from Sunday 18 June to Saturday 24 June, Ms Richards said it’s important to talk about the way communities contribute.

“We are so fortunate to have people who’ve made ultimate sacrifices to be part of our Victorian community.”

More care for shelter animals at The Lost Dogs’ Home

The Lost Dogs’ Home are hoping to roll out a new program at their Cranbourne shelter, giving dogs and cats additional enrichment.

Animals at North Melbourne’s The Lost Dogs’ Home are already experiencing a whole new way of life at the shelter with the Extra TLC for Pets program.

A team of 25 dedicated volunteers are transforming the experience for the 15,000 animals that come into The Lost Dogs’ Home’s care every year.

Walking around the North Melbourne shelter, volunteers can be seen reading books to dogs, blowing bubbles at cats and participating in cuddle time inside the animals’ pens for those animals that are a little bit more worried about their environment.

The Home’s spokesperson Suzana Talevski said the Extra TLC program provides ad-

BehaviourTeamLeaderCarinaMorgan readingtoGeorgethePug. Picture:SUPPLIED

ditional enrichment for the animals beyond walks, toys, Kongs, pats and the general love and attention they receive each day.

‘’We are already seeing such an improvement in the stress levels of some of our animals who find it tough in a shelter environment,“ she said,

“It really is all about contributing to the overall well-being of the animals during their time with us at the shelter.“

George the four-year-old pug was found with fractured teeth, lost on the streets.

He was struggling adjusting to shelter life while the vet team performed numerous surgeries to get him back to his best self.

The Lost Dogs’ Home team said the Extra TLC program was crucial in helping George struggle with anxiety and stress.

It was said he enjoys story time and cuddle time the best, as well as drifting off to calming music.

Further enrichment activities for dogs,

cats and rabbits include bubble blowing, spraying scented water, sounding wind chimes, providing flavoured ice cubes and playing calming music.

‘’It’s really exciting to see more animals exhibiting relaxed body postures, a calm demeanour, normal sleep patterns, and interest in appropriate social interaction following the 6 month trial of the Extra TLC for Pets program,’’ said Ms Talevski.

‘’We have also seen a reduction of behaviours that indicate stress, fear or boredom such as reactive or boredom barking, destructive chewing, stereotypical action patterns like spinning or circling in dogs and hiding and aggressive displays in cats.’’

Following the successful trail at the North Melbourne shelter, the Home is hoping to roll out the program at its Cranbourne shelter.

Residents to name new Cranbourne North rec reserve

Local residents are invited to vote for their preferred name for a new recreation reserve at Tulliallan Estate in Cranbourne North.

The City of Casey council consulted with the Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation regarding appropriate Traditional Owner language when coming up with potential names for the reserve.

There are three proposed names residents can vote for, which are based on Aboriginal language.

The first name is the ‘Kowan Recreation Reserve’.

‘Kowan’ translates to echidna.

Echidnas are local to the area, and they were used in several different ways by Indigenous Australians.

All native species are significant to the Bunurong people as a community.

The second choice is the ‘Perripe Recreation Reserve’ (pronounced pear-rip), which translates to ‘Spring’.

This is something that signifies renewal, life, health and new beginnings as food and land were plentiful in the springtime.

Finally, residents may choose ‘Topiram Recreation Reserve’, which translates to ‘star’.

Stars are important to all First Nations people.

They would guide them through their journey on Country, connect them to their Elders who have passed on, tell stories and watch over us all.

To cast your vote and for more information, please visit the City of Casey community engagement website, Casey Conversations.

Voting closes Thursday 6 July.

LanaFormosowithLeeTarlamis,SMRCCEOandSMRClongestservingstaffrecognised.

Picture:DENNISPERRY

SEMMA marks 20 years

The idea for a ‘voice’ for South East manufacturers sprung from a threat to the region’s rolling stock industry in 2003.

Twenty years later, 200 guests and members celebrated South Eastern Melbourne Manufacturs Alliance’s anniversary with a gala dinner at Park Royal hotel in Clayton on 8 June.

“A lot can happen in 20 years,” SEMMA chief executive Honi Walker.

“If we look at the Victorian manufacturing landscape back in 2003, there was every chance it was thought of as dirty, dumb, and dangerous.”

At the time major Australian manufacturers were moving offshore, tech schools were closed and students moving to universities, retail or hospitality.

Now, after a global pandemic and breaks in international supply chains, the Federal Government was back behind manufacturing. Manufacturing was “smart, secure and sustainable” part of tech growth areas like AI, robotics, defence, space, renewable energy and automation.

“Manufacturing kept the country going, kept it fed, kept the supply chain serviced and kept people in jobs performing essential services,” Ms Walker said.

“Our‘Sovereign Capabilities’ were suddenly a feature of Minister’s statements and departmental directives.”

To underline the point, guest speaker was Labor state MP Ben Carroll – who among his swag of portfolios is Manufacturing Sovereignty.

Also on the night, 13 SEMMA founding members were recognised: Atco Pickering Metal Industries, Australian Rollforming, Bainbridge Engineering, Hitachi Global Air Power Australia, Chisholm Institute, Corex Australia, Excel Pacific Diecasting, GBC Scientific Equipment, Macpherson Kelley, Southport Engineering, Steele & Lincoln Foundry, Volgren

Australia and Wickhham Tooling.

SEMMA president Peter Angelico said the alliance was established by “visionaries” to retain “key rolling stock capabilities in the region”.

“The founding members … understood the need for a collaborative approach to address the challenges faced by the industry.

“Their recognition of the importance of manufacturing to the Australian economy has

paved the way for SEMMA’s crucial role in supporting the sector’s growth and development.”

According to SEMMA secretary Sandra George, the idea for SEMMA was raised at a South East Business Networks annual dinner in 2002.

Greater Dandenong Council’s then-chief executive Warwick Heine took on board the concerns about losing the region’s rolling stock injury and sought interest in creating a ‘voice of local SME manufacturers’.

Today, SEMMA represents more than 200 members and 16,000 employees in Melbourne’s South East.

Entries now open for South East Business Awards

Nominations are now open for the Greater Dandenong Chamber of Commerce’s 2023 South East Business Awards.

The annual awards celebrate outstanding businesses in the south east region of Melbourne.

Participating in the awards is a wonderful opportunity to gain valuable insights and feedback on your business through the nomination and judging process.

It can also serve as a vehicle to reflect on what is working well, acknowledge your successes, and get helpful feedback on your business.

Colin Peterson, CEO of Infinite Automation, which was the 2002 Business Innovation category winner, said “the award application compelled us to assess our achievements, strengths, and areas for improvement –which proved advantageous, particularly in marketing and sales”.

Brick Lane Brewing Co. took out two categories last year – the Environmental and Sustainability Awards, and the Leisure, Tourism

and Wellbeing Award.

Its venue manager Hannah agrees that the awards process was of great value.

“The process helped us to gain clarity about who we are as a hospitality business and to cut through the noise to identify what matters most to us at our core,” she said.

“It helped us better align our business practices with our values.”

Winners of the 2023 awards will be announced and celebrated by the wider business community at the Gala Awards Night on Thursday 26 October – a night where the business community in the south east will get together to honour winners, network, and let their hair down.

Businesses can nominate in 12 different categories this year, with the winner of the Overall Business Award chosen from the category winners.

Don’t miss your chance to be recognised.

Nominate your business today at www. greaterdandenongchamber.com.au/awards

Brick Lane Brewing Co took out two categories at the 2022 South East Business Awards.

Manufacturing Sovereignty Minister Ben Carroll, SEMMA founding member Jill Walsh and SEMMA president Peter Angelico

SEMMA’s founding members from 20 years ago were recognised. Guests at the gala dinner at Parkroyal Monash in Clayton.

SEMMA secretary and South East Business Networks manager Sandra George.

SEMMA chief executive Honi Walker.

THE LOWDOWN

Q&A

Tell us two fun facts about yourself!

I have sung for charity events in the past. The most recent event I’ve performed in was for the Tongue and Groove Virtual Open Mic event, which was aimed at helping raise funds for the Sahara Micro Relief Fund through the Rotaract Club of Nepal. The fund helps aid hospital expenses to people with financial hardships. I am also quite adventurous. I’ve crossed a few things off my bucket list such as paragliding, skydiving, and ultralight. I believe we do not need magic to change the world, we carry all the power we need inside ourselves, and there is no limit to what we can accomplish.

What are you most passionate about?

I am really passionate about helping the community. I am the current president of the Casey-Cardinia Rotaract Club and am excited to organize future events that inspire, empower and help the community. I am also a strong advocate for mental health.

What do you love about what you do?

I like spreading kindness, positivity, and uplifting people to reach their full potential. I highly recommend the younger generation (18-plus) to join the Casey-Cardinia Rotaract club to help, learn, enjoy, and make new friends.

If you were a spirit animal, what animal would you be?

My spirit animal would be a phoenix. It symbolizes hope, rebirth, and transformation. When push comes to shove, they always rise from the ashes.

What would your last meal be?

Homemade food made with love by my mum. Mainly spicy fried rice with macadamia nuts, tomato chutney and sweets.

What was your most memorable moment?

I am really passionate about helping the community.Itgavemeimmensepleasuretoreceive recognition for all my work to help people in need. I have two memories that I consider to

with Casey-Cardinia Rotaract incoming president Arshu Maskey

a “little ray of sunshine“. I used to be bubbly and full of positive energy. I loved singing and dancing I used to organise small talent shows during family gatherings. What event, past or present, would you like to witness?

I would like to witness the first time man walked on the moon (Apollo 11).

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

I would invite these inspiring women who made a difference in this world: Diana, Princess of Wales, Ada Lovelace, Queen Elizabeth II, Marie Curie, Michelle Obama and Malala Yousafzai. I would talk to them about their passions and ask them for their words of wisdom for the younger generations.

What are you currently listening to/watching or reading?

Currently I’m reading ’The Happiness Project’ by Gretchen Rubin. This book consists of inspiring ideas and tons of ways we can take a look at life and improve the little things. What three words would your friends use to describe you?

Caring, loyal and ambitious. Where is your happy place?

THREE … facts about Eid al-Adha

Eid al-Adha or the Feast of Sacrifice runs from Wednesday 28 June to Saturday 1 July. Here are some facts on its history and significance of the Islamic observance for Muslim communities.

1

Eid-al Adha is the second of two Eid holidays for Muslim communities and represents the most sacred time of the year for Muslims as it marks the Hajj pilgrimage, a religious duty which should be carried out by all able Muslims at least once during their lifetime. Millions of Muslims travel to Mecca in Saudi Arabia every year for Hajj.

2

be the most important to me. One was being chosen for the Cardinia Shire’s Young Citizen of the Year 2022 and the other was for winning the postgraduate industry experience expo, where I created a project ’Information Technology for social good’ to encourage young children to play physical activities/games for their physical and mental well-being during the pandemic. This project was very memorable and close to my heart.

What were you like as a kid?

I used to be an extrovert and would speak my mind. My parents used to describe me as

I like listening to music. I have Spotify playlists called ’Morning Moves’ and ’Hits Different’. They take me to my happy place and I get into a better mood.

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

I would make traditional Newari food that is called Momo. It’s very addictive, I would highly recommend it.

Where is your dream holiday destination?

I don’t have a dream holiday destination as such but I would love to travel around the world one day. To visit different places, understand various cultures and traditions, and make memories along the way.

3

Eid Al-Adha is a festival with an atmosphere of peace, giving, respect, receiving, caring and sharing. It is a special time for families and friends to get together and share the love. During Eid Al-Adha, Muslims will be united in prayer at mosques and other venues. People will also share feasts and gifts, and many Muslims like to give to the poor and needy.

The word “Eid“ translates to feast or holiday in Arabic. The most common way to wish someone well during Eid al-Adha is to say “Eid Mubarak“, which quite literally translates to “blessed Eid“ in Arabic.

Casey-CardiniaRotaractincomingpresident ArshuMaskey. 340191 Picture:ROBCAREW

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New bill challenges stigma

By Emily Chapman Laing

Personal consumption of cannabis may become legal in Victoria if a new Bill introduced by the Legalise Cannabis Party passes through Parliament.

Casey residents have shown overwhelming support for the Bill, saying it would be a chance to “change generational stigmas“.

However, some residents fear the Bill may be a “prelude to harder drugs“.

Casey resident Jorge Salas said he think the legalisation of cannabis will offer “another taxable commodity which the government will enjoy“ while also helping to change misconceptions of the drug’s use “that unfortunately have caused way more damage socially than the drug itself“.

“Making this sort of thing accessible I believe will help people suffering from so many things,“ he said.

“Luckily for us we do have the benefit of about 70 years of professional research that’s only really been held back by out-of-date laws.“

Local manWayne Delaney said the legalisation is “overdue“

Teresa Hudson said she supports the Bill as long as those who choose to use cannabis “do it at home“

Julie Wiley said it’s time for the government to “stop blocking“ the personal use of cannabis.

“It comes from the earth, it’s one of the most natural remedies for a lot of medical issues,“ she said.

Local politicians are on board too, with Liberal Democrat Stephen Matulec saying he “fully“ supports the Bill.

“I believe adults should have the right to chose what they put into their own body, not the government,“ he said.

“Victoria spends $1.7 billion per year of tax-

payer’s money to enforce this, which is absurd.

“The law treats adults like criminals for making a choice with their own body, when they are not harming anybody else.“

Mr Matulec stressed the inefficacy of prohibition.

“Prohibition also does not work and history has shown us this,“ he said.

“If people want to do something, they will find a way to do it and this means people will continue to go to organised crime and the black market will continue to thrive.

“Individuals should be able to purchase it safely and legally.“

Mr Matulec’s sentiments were echoed by local Christine Skrobo, who said she supports the Bill because “adults should have control over what goes into their own body, not the government“.

“All prohibition does is create thriving black markets,“ she said.

Mark McCartin said he supports the Bill as long as taxation is involved.

“If they tax it the same way they do alcohol and nicotine products I’m all for it,“ he said.

“It might result in less jet skis in the northern suburbs by taking profits out of drug dealers pockets and help boost the economy in a way other than screwing those that actually work hard.“

Troy Pearl said the Bill has his support insofar as there are “clear guidelines“ for users about responsible and safe usage.

“There must remain road laws that enforce that you cannot drive with it in your system, or use the plant and equipment in the workplace,“ he said.

The Bill was introduced in three states on Tuesday 20 June, a first in Australian legislative history.

The Regulation of Personal Adult Use of Cannabis Bill 2023 will legalise the personal consumption of cannabis in Victoria, New South Wales and Western Australia.

This unprecedented legislation will allow adults to responsibly possess and grow small quantities of cannabis at home and has been modelled, in part, on the ACT regime that has been in operation since 2020.

Rachel Payne, Legalise Cannabis Victoria

MP said, “This Bill actions sensible and meaningful reform to end the criminalisation of people who consume cannabis“.

“It’s time our governments reformed outdated laws, in line with community expectations.“

The Bill will facilitate the legal regulation of cannabis, allow sharing between adults and carers to grow on behalf of others.

Importantly, the Bill will not allow people under 18 to access cannabis or allow people to drive while impaired by cannabis.

There have been over 700,000 arrests in Australia for cannabis-related offences since 2010.

The Legalise Cannabis Party noted approximately 90 per cent of these arrests were for possessing or consuming cannabis.

The Bill is expected to significantly reduce the cannabis black market, estimated by police to generate organised crime profits of $8 billion per annum.

This Bill will be the first of a three-stage process proposed by the Legalise Cannabis Party to responsibly legalise cannabis across the nation.

Legalise Cannabis Victorian MP David Ettershank said, “Cannabis laws make criminals of ordinary Australian consumers and perversely, create a huge illicit market run by real criminals“.

“Cannabis prohibition is 95 years old,“ he said.

“A million Victorian consumers say it’s failed and it’s time for a change.

“It’s time to regulate and educate.“

Dr Brian Walker, WA Legalise Cannabis MP and Vice President of the Federal Party said he looks forward to debating this Bill in the coming months, and to “giving the people a real alternative to the failed and discredited war on drugs“.

FOCUS ON … MEDICALLY SPEAKING Treatment more affordable

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has warmly welcomed the Federal Government making lifesaving medications for people with opioid dependence more affordable.

From 1 July, all opioid dependence treatment medicines such as methadone and buprenorphine will be listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).

This means these medications are covered by the PBS safety net, making them cheaper for all patients right across Australia.

It comes following the Government announcing a suite of measures in this year’s Budget to boost alcohol and other drug programs and treatment.

RACGP president Dr Nicole Higgins welcomed the changes.

“It is great news the government has heeded our calls and made these drugs more affordable,” she said.

“People with opioid dependence need treatment and support, we gain nothing from throwing the book atA them and putting them in the ‘too hard basket’.

“These opioid dependence treatment drugs make such a key difference in turning someone’s life around because they act on the opioid receptors in the brain to eliminate withdrawal symptoms and relieve cravings.

“Ask anyone who has experienced opioid dependence and they will tell you how difficult it is to go ‘cold turkey’. Given these drugs are now on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme they are being mainstreamed and normalised, just like insulin for a person with diabetes.”

Dr Higgins encouraged GPs to be prepared.

“GPs play a vital role in supporting and prescribing opioid dependence treatment for their patients, and I’m sure many will be breathing a sigh of relief with the changes coming into effect on 1 July,” she said.

“I encourage all GPs to take steps such as talking to local pharmacies, preparing the move to PBS scripts, ensuring your patients have scripts to tide them over during the transition period and even just advising your patients that this change is a positive thing that

will save them valuable dollars.”

RACGP Alcohol and Other Drug spokesperson Dr Hester Wilson backed the president’s comments.

“This is a game changer for alcohol and other drug treatment in Australia,” she said.

“People dependent on opioid drugs such as heroin or oxycodone and whose health is at risk every day, will be able to access lifesaving medications at a cost they can afford.

“They will no longer have to pay a private pharmacy dispensing fee of between $5 to $15 a day, but rather just $7.30 or $30 per month.

“As reported recently, a key factor holding back more people from getting the help they

need is cost. Every life matters and people in communities across Australia with opioid dependence need help to get their lives on track. If we can remove roadblocks, including cost, stopping them from getting treatment – it will save lives.”

Dr Paul Grinzi, a GP with 20 years of addiction medicine experience and author of a recent journal article outlining how GPs can help patients from all walks of life experiencing alcohol and other drug-related issues, also backed the changes.

“This is an historic move,” he said.

“It brings this lifesaving treatment for people of all ages into the mainstream and seeks to change the inequity of patients having to pay

significant fees for treatment.

“We should not be stigmatising people with opioid dependence and demanding that they go without the PBS safety net – that mindset is outdated and will get us nowhere.

“I believe this change has the potential to increase access to care and given a recent report highlighting that there were 1788 druginduced deaths Australia-wide in 2021, it couldn’t come at a more important time.

“People who have a problematic relationship with alcohol and other drugs, including opioids, need help and compassion. Judging them or making the cost of treatment beyond their reach doesn’t achieve anything and, in my view, diminishes us as a nation.”

Approval, funding for future of paediatric palliative care

Paediatric palliative care and its important role within the health sector has been recognised with new funding from the Australian Department of Health and Aged Care.

The $1.25 million for Palliative Care Australia’s ‘Shaping the Future of Paediatric Palliative Care’ project builds on a growing awareness that palliative care for infants, children, young people, and their family’s requires a specialised focus.

“This investment by the Health Minister, Mark Butler, is timely because it means we can build on the hard work of the last three

years in developing the Paediatric Palliative Care National Action Plan,” says Camilla Rowland, chief executive officer, Palliative Care Australia (PCA).

“The Health Department has just given the final sign off on the Action Plan, so this new funding means we can get to work on some of its insights.

“The action plan is a roadmap for a national approach that provides guidance and direction on key priorities to improve outcomes for infants, children and young people living with a life-limiting condition.

“The strength of the Action Plan is the deep input patients, families, the work force, and other stakeholders have had in developing the final document,” Ms Rowland says.

The action plan was prepared by PCA in partnership with Paediatric Palliative Care Australia and New Zealand, with funding from the Australian Government.

“We are planning to launch the plan very soon and have it easily available to palliative care services and the wider health community,” Ms Rowland says.

“This is a first of its kind for Australia and there is a real momentum behind it.”

WiththeActionPlanapproved,PCAisnow fully scoping what the ‘Shaping the Future of Paediatric Palliative Care’ project looks like.

“To receive this new funding now means we don’t lose any of the knowledge, contacts, or energy of the action plan – we can build on it and grow its impact for the precious people it seeks to serve,” Ms Rowland says.

“Drawing on the voice of lived experience will again be really important to our work.”

From 1 July, all opioid dependence treatment medicines such as methadone and buprenorphine will be listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). Picture: SASUN BUGHDARYAN/UNSPLASH

Patient-focused care at Melbourne Urology Centre

High-quality, personalised and patient-focused urological care. Our main consulting rooms are located at the Specialist Centre, adjacent to St. John of God Hospital Berwick.

The surgeons at Melbourne Urology Centre are experts in using the latest technology including robotics and laser, to ensure you have the safest and least invasive treatment approach, with the best possible outcomes.

Our surgeons consult and operate at a number of private hospitals throughout metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria. We strive to treat patients as close to home as possible.

We pride ourselves on our approachable and compassionate nature. We understand the need to take the time to explain complex medical conditions in simple terms to ensure that you and your family are properly informed throughout the duration of your patient journey.

Melbourne Urology Centre offers:

· BPH, prostate enlargement treatment

· Da Vinci robotic surgery

· Kidney stone treatment

· Cancer surgery

· Mens health procedures

Our team is comprised of Dr Shekib Shahbaz and Dr Tony de Sousa.

Dr Shekib Shahbaz is an Australiantrained urologist who grew up in Melbourne’s South-East. Dr Shahbaz is actively involved in teaching, research and ongoing professional development. His compas-

Always here to help you

Always Hear was founded by Gerald Liew and Jacqueline Coyle after working together in a corporate audiology company. We knew audiology could be done in a much more compassionate and personalised way. We pride ourselves on our after care and ongoing support to ensure that no hearing aids get put into the drawer and never used!

Always Hear provides the very best hearing care available with expertise, passion and integrity to break down the barrier of stigma surrounding hearing loss and the audiology industry. We specialise in providing personalised hearing care for the local community.We are independent and unlike large corporate companies, we pride ourselves on maintaining hearing health and providing a unique personable experience for everyone, from the residents at ourhomevisitstotheirlovedonesandtheteam that care for them, along with every person that walks in our doors.

sionate approach and cultural awareness sees him well-liked by patients of all ages and backgrounds. He specialises in kidney stone disease, voiding difficulties, advanced laparoscopic and robotic surgery.

Dr Tony de Sousa is an Australiantrained urologist who is well-liked by his patients for his clear communication, caring approach and attention to detail. His special interests include robotic and laparoscopic cancer surgery, kidney stone treatment, treatment of prostate enlargement, PSA evaluation and prostate cancer, bladder cancer management.

Hearing loss significantly affects quality of life and communication with loved ones, and can often lead to frustration, isolation, and negative impact to cognitive health. At Always Hear we provide a comprehensive list of hearing services, including free hearing assessments, wax removal via micro-suction, hearing aid management and hearing solutions, diagnostic and employment assessments, doctor referral assessments, and custom ear plugs/moulds.

Always Hear is accredited by the Australian Government to provide fully subsidised hearing services and devices to eligible pensioners under the Hearing Services Program.

We provide in-home care at retirement and aged care villages surrounding our Scoresby and Officer clinics.We visit regularly to look after all the residents’ hearing health and current hearing aids at no charge as part of our partnership program.

The whole team at Always Hear love what we do, and every client is our VIP.

We are always here so you can Always Hear!

Principal Audiologist , Gerald Liew and Client Care Director, Jacqueline Coyle.

Dr Tony de Sousa and Dr Shekib Shahbaz.

FOCUS ON … LEARNING DISABILITY WEEK

Benefits of art therapies

South Eastern Play & Creative Therapies provides specialised therapeutic services that are neurodiversity affirming, traumainformed and developmentally appropriate. Play and expressive art therapies can be particularly beneficial for children with learning. We offer a range of services:

· Play therapy

· Art therapy

· Family play therapy

· Parenting support

· Therapeutic group programs

Q & A with an Art Therapist: What is Art Therapy?

When it comes to helping children heal from emotional and psychological issues, art therapy is often overlooked. It’s a powerfultoolthatcanhelpchildrenexpressthemselves in a healthy, creative way. A range of different art mediums can be used such as painting, drawing, sculpting, collage and sand tray use with figurines. Art therapy can provide a therapeutic outlet for those who may find it difficult to express themselves through traditional verbal therapy.

What happens in an Art Therapy session?

In an Art Therapy session, the child is given a safe, non judgemental and supportive space which allows for self-expression to understand your emotions, behaviours and patterns. Your Art Therapist will work beside you, inviting you to create and express with art to encourage curiosity.

Play and expressive art therapies can be particularly beneficial for children with learning.

How can art therapy support a child with learning disabilities?

Art therapy can help children develop a positive self-image and increase their selfesteem. Engaging in creative activities can lower cortisol levels, which is the hormone associated with stress so the art therapy process can help to reduce stress and anxiety in children. Through creating art and talking about their creations, children can develop and improve their communication skills.

Do I need to be good at art to engage in Art Therapy?

There is no need to be ‘good’ at art, as Art Therapy is about your own personal expression and exploration through art modalities, there is no right or wrong! Additionally, everyone has the capacity to enjoy ArtTherapy.

Horses assisting clients

Melbourne Equine Assisted Counselling believes in the power of Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) to bring about positive change and healing in individuals, couples, and groups of all ages. Located in Cranbourne South, they proudly offer their services to clients on the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), ensuring that everyone has access to the support they need.

Founder and owner, Stephanie Milburn, is a highly qualified Trauma Counsellor and certified Equine Assisted Psychotherapist.

With over 12 years of experience and training in mental health and disability support, as well as more than 22 years of horse experience, Stephanie brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the practice.

Melbourne Equine Assisted Counselling consists of a herd of six horses, along with a dog, cats, goats, and other animals. Each member of the animal team has their own unique personality and contributes to the therapeutic process in different ways. However, it is important to note that Melbourne Equine Assisted Counselling does not use horses as tools or objects in their work.

Instead, they serve as co-facilitators, assisting clients on their journey of self-discov-

Trusted care

In today’s society, it is essential to prioritise the well-being and inclusivity of individuals with disabilities. Recognising the unique needs and challenges faced by these individuals, Evergreen Disability Care has emerged as a leading provider of NDIS disability support care. With their unwavering commitment to compassion, dignity, and personalised care, Evergreen Disability Care has become a trusted partner for individuals seeking comprehensive support services. Working hand in hand with the specialist support professionals, and following the attendant care structure for support delivery to NDIS, Work Cover and TAC clients, Evergreen Disability Care works in with the services to best support you in your life journey.

and nurturing environment.

Evergreen Disability Care understands the importance of collaboration and advocacy within the disability support care sector. They actively engage with clients, their families, and the broader community to foster inclusivity, raise awareness, and advocate for the rights of individuals with disabilities. By building strong partnerships with local organizations, healthcare providers, and disability support networks, Evergreen Disability Care strives to create a supportive ecosystem that enhances the quality of life for their clients.

ery and healing.

In the sessions, there is no riding involved, and no prior horse experience is necessary. The focus is on the experiential relationship between the clients and the horses, as well as other animals present. Through their interactions, the horses and animals help build emotional and social awareness, teaching mindfulness and allowing clients to observe their momentary thoughts, feelings, perceptions, and sensations.

Melbourne Equine Assisted Counselling

At the core of Evergreen Disability Care’s philosophy is the belief that every individual deserves to live a fulfilling life, regardless of their abilities. Their team of dedicated professionals embraces a compassionate and person-centered approach, taking the time to understand each client’s specific needs, preferences, and aspirations. By focusing on the individual’s strengths, interests, and goals, Evergreen Disability Care creates tailored care plans that promote independence, empowerment, and overall well-being.

Evergreen Disability Care offers a wide range of support services designed to address various aspects of a person’s life. These services include personal care assistance, in-home support, transportation assistance, respite care, and community integration programs. Theirqualifiedandtrainedcaregiverspossessa deep understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and are equipped with the skills to provide quality care in a safe

Evergreen Disability Care firmly believes that everyone, regardless of their abilities, deserves equal opportunities to thrive in their careers. They recognize the unique skills, talents, and perspectives that individuals with disabilities bring to the workplace, and now have disability employment opportunities available.

Through their compassionate and personcentered approach, comprehensive services, commitment to quality and safety, and collaborative advocacy efforts, they have positively impacted the lives of individuals with disabilities and their families. By choosing Evergreen Disability Care, clients can trust that their unique needs will be met with the utmost care, respect, and dedication, empowering them to lead fulfilling and meaningful lives.

To explore employment opportunities or learn more about their Disability Care Service, visit their website or contact the team today. https://evergreendisabilitycare.com/ Main Office 0408 013 010 - Annex 0478 577 611 services@evergreendisabilitycare.com

Evergreen Disability Care: Providing Compassionate and Personalised Disability Support Care.

Each member of the animal team has their own unique personality and contributes to the therapeutic process in different ways.

Where care starts

Special Care Australia (SCA) is an NDIS registered company that is dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals with special needs. They offer a wide range of services tailored to meet diverse needs and provide holistic support.

FOCUS ON … LEARNING DISABILITY WEEK Focus on relationships

SCA’s day centres serve as social interaction and skill-building hubs for individuals with special needs. They also provide respite care services for families in need of short-term relief, and specialised kids respite programs for younger age groups. Additionally, SCA offers school holiday programs, weekend activities for kids, and Supported Independent Living (SIL) options to ensure continuous engagement and growth.

The programs at SCA are thoughtfully designed to foster independence, social connectivity, and personal development in a nurturing environment. SCA takes a holistic approach to disability care and services, providing comprehensive support to individuals with special needs.

SCA understands that one size does not fit all when it comes to supporting people with special needs.They actively involve individuals and their families in the decisionmaking process, ensuring that the support programs are tailored to suit their unique requirements and aspirations. SCA’s goal is to enable individuals to lead independent and fulfilling lives.

Community engagement is a crucial aspect of SCA’s approach. They ensure that the individuals they support are active and valued members of the community. Through various activities, such as participating in local events, volunteering, and recreational pursuits, SCA fosters social interaction, builds relationships, and nur-

tures a sense of belonging.

SCA offers a diverse range of programs to cater to various needs and interests. Their day centre programs provide opportunities for engaging in activities like arts, crafts, music, and games. They also offer respite care services for individuals with special needs, giving their families much-needed breaks. SCA’s Kids’ Respite and School Holiday Programs keep children engaged and learning through fun and educational activities. Weekend activities and Supported Independent Living (SIL) options are available for individuals aiming for greater independence. SCA also provides life skills development programs, including cooking classes and financial management, to equip individuals with the necessary skills for independent living.

Join SCA in opening doors to a world of possibilities for people with special needs and make a difference one life at a time.

Contact: 0410 770 722

info@specialcareaust.au

www.specialcare.au

Where Care Starts!

Sunrise2Sunrise is a Registered NDIS provider that does things differently. We take pride in offering professional services traditionally only provided in larger corporate Disability Support organisations, but take a personalised approach. We tailor our services to each and every participant and all our services are in accordance with the Disability Act 2006, NDIS Act 2013 and Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities act 2006. At Sunrise2Sunrise we’re about relationships - people always come first.

The Sunrise2Sunrise staff - or as we call them, our Life Changers - are selected for their experience in the Disability Support Industry. Our team are NDIS Rockstars, and support people’s lifestyles to help them find their strengths and abilities in a variety of settings to suit our participants needs. Whether it be through 1:1 community participation, in house supports or SIL/SDA accommodation. We strive for our participants at Sunrise2Sunrise to live their best life.

Sunrise2Sunrise is proud to be able to support participants who want to live independently. Participants who have SIL funding in their plan can access the SIL service. The planning for SIL support uses a person-centred approach to help participants reach their goals while facilitating their culture, lifestyle and circumstances. The support is delivered respectfully in a participant’s home by Sunrise2Sunrise to advance skills for independent living. The customised support will ensure the participant is central to all decision-making to

best suit their wants and needs. Participants can adapt their SIL support to align with their life at any stage.

Sunrise2Sunrise use the social support model to help extend a participant’s independence beyond their home, to allow them to enjoy experiences in their local area while building up their confidence to make meaningful lifestyle choices. As participants’ independence and confidence grow, their ties to the community grow too. From here, they will be able to try new experiences and further develop accomplished skills in existing leisure’s and hobbies. The participant can develop skills through community programs like gardening, volunteering, and public events.

The sky’s the limit!

Sunrise2Sunrise is situated at 43 Treloar Lane, Pakenham, 9188 3499.

Where care starts - Special Care Australia.

The team at Sunrise2Sunrise.

Help with development

Does your child need support to reach key developmental milestones or have additional needs?

“The earlier your child receives the right intervention or therapy to address their needs the better the outcomes,” says Sean Coleman, NDIS Manager atWindermere Child & Family Services.

“If your child is under 12 years of age and has a developmental delay or disability, they may be eligible to access Early Intervention and Therapy services under the NDIS,” says Sean.

When families access early intervention NDIS services from not for profit Windermere, they are assigned a keyworker as the one, easy point of contact to access support services. “A keyworker will draw from Windermere’s team of combined expertise and resources to provide you with the services and advice that you need,” says Sean.

While a keyworker can help with the range of supports, managing your NDIS funds can also be very complex and time consuming. An NDIS Plan Manager, also known as a Financial Intermediary, can take the stress out of managing the financial aspects of an NDIS plan.

Windermere’s Plan Management services provide a dedicated Plan Manager as the main point of contact who can listen to your needs and understand your specific goals.

Choose a bright future

Grow 2 Be is a disability support day service with a difference.

Participants at the Pakenham-based service are offered a range of hands-on activities like art lessons and woodwork classes as well as outings on any given day.

They also have a chance to volunteer at a bunny refuge, a native-wildlife shelter and equine therapy, and offered courses such as Certificates II in animal care, CPR and first aid.

Since opening in 2021, Grow 2 Be has grown by positive word of mouth.

Among the highlights are some participants gaining employment after work placements organised by Grow 2 Be.

Participants choose their activities in Grow 2 Be’s day programs.

Empowering lives at MCHS

Help with your child’s development with Windermere.

“If you think having an NDIS plan manager would help you, all you have to do is to request for Plan Management services to be included in your NDIS plan during your planning meeting with the National Disability Insurance Agency,” says Sean.

Windermere is registered with the NDIA and provides a range of services such as early childhood education, homelessness support, NDIS supports and a range of early childhood early intervention services.

To find out more contact Windermere on 1300 946 337 or visit windermere.org.au

NDIS plan

Would you like your own NDIS Plan Manager to get to know you and provide one on one support to help you achieve your NDIS goals? Sign

Our dedicated NDIS Plan Managers bring you: Choice and control – you get to choose your NDIS providers.

Expertise & reliability – we are NDIS registered, externally accredited and have delivered disability services for over 30 years.

Quick processing – we will process your submitted invoices within 1–2 business days.

Breadth of NDIS services – we also provide a range of other services under the NDIS. windermere.org.au

online or find out more.

Monarch Community Health Service (MCHS) is not only distinguished by its unwavering commitment and personalised approach but also by its comprehensive range of services that cater to the diverse needs of individuals with disabilities. As an NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) service provider, we are dedicated to empowering individuals in Melbourne and regional areas through various avenues of support.

At MCHS, we understand the importance of community engagement and the role it plays in enhancing one’s quality of life. Our community access support services are designed to facilitate meaningful participation and social inclusion. We work closely with individuals to identify their interests and connect them with relevant community resources, activities, and events. By fostering social connections and expanding opportunities, we empower individu-

als to lead fulfilling lives.

The development of life skills is a cornerstone of our services at MCHS. We believe that equipping individuals with essential skills enhances their independence and empowers them to navigate various aspects of daily life with confidence.

ON … LEARNING DISABILITY WEEK

Easy living

Easy Living Care Solutions (ELCS) is dedicated to delivering National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) services in community-based settings across the South-Eastern suburbs. Our mission is to empower individuals with disabilities to maintain their independence and actively participate in the broader community. At ELCS, we firmly believe that every person deserves a fulfilling life, and we are committed to helping them achieve this by providing support that enables them to live as independently as possible, either in their own homes or in Supported Independent Living (SIL) accommodation.

Our services are person-centred, focusing on the unique needs and wishes of each individual.

If you or someone you know is seeking disability care and support, please get in touch with Easy Living Care Solutions.

Journey to independence

Mission Australia: Empowering Individuals with Disabilities for a Life of Independence and Inclusion.

For over a century, Mission Australia has been at the forefront of providing support to individualsinneedacrossAustralia.AsaDisability Employment Service (DES) provider, they have been instrumental in assisting those with disabilities, injuries, or health issues on their journey towards independence through employment and training services.

Mission Australia’s commitment to their not-for-profit mission, driven by compassion and respect, is evident in their personcentred and strengths-based approach.

Recognising that a person’s circumstances should not define their future, Mission

Australia firmly believes in the potential of every individual.

They leverage their extensive network of employer and community relationships to secure suitable and sustainable employment opportunities for their clients. By placing them in stimulating work environments, Mission Australia creates avenues for personal growth and professional development.

However, Mission Australia’s dedication extends beyond job placement.

They understand that sustainable change requires ongoing support. For at least 12 months, they continue to offer comprehensive assistance, ensuring that each client’s life-changing goals are achieved.

MYC’s Flying Free Choir

At Melbourne Youth Chorale we believe that everyone deserves the gift of music.

MYC’s unique Flying Free Choir capitalises on the emotional and wellbeing benefits of music and singing while exploring communication and socialisation skills.

Choristers learn through games, songs and other interactive activities.

The choir is open to children aged 6-12 who are both verbal and non-verbal and no music or singing background is required.

The Flying Free Choir enables children to learn music skills at their own pace, thoroughly and without overwhelm, as well

as work towards specific learning goals in other areas.

Nicole, a parent of a Flying Free chorister, says: “Singing isn’t just a tune…it’s about the friendships, learning new skills, and most importantly, being yourself.”

The Flying Free Choir is on Wednesdays 4.30pm-5.15pm at Hampton Park Secondary College.

There are no set fees - Melbourne Youth Chorale operates on a‘donate what you can afford’ basis. In some circumstances NDIS funding can be allocated to the Flying Free choir. For more information, contact Kerry at manager.myc@gmail.com

Why Choose Easy Living Care Solutions?

•

Students enjoyed Term 1 choir performance.

Evergreen Disability Care is a focused approach to Caring That You Can Trust

We exist to provide the service to Clients to live the life they desire with real Capacity Building and Community access planning.

Evergreen Disability Care is committed to creating a culture of growth by reaching your goals with the assistance of our great Support Workers.

It is our clear view to be the name you turn to for NDIS Disability Care

Vision Statement

Evergreen Disability Care as a preferred provider of Disability Support workers (SW) to NDIS participants, ensures we have staff who are current with all their learning’s and their certifications such as Police checks, Working with children’s certificates, First-aid, Car insurances etc.

Our Mission

Evergreen Disability Care is committed to providing excellence of care for our clients for today and the future

Make

We have a number of Disability Support Worker roles on offer to you throughout Victoria

- Visit our website for more information

We currently have capacity to assist you with your NDIS - TACWork Cover and Attendant care needs - Call Today!

WHAT’S ON

Marngrook Making

Join Janine, a proud Dja Dja Wurrung woman, at the Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne NAIDOC week event for a free, hands-on Marngrook making workshop.

Janine’s expertise in local culture and language, horticulture, bushland management, and children’s services makes this a unique opportunity to learn and celebrate Aboriginal culture. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the Dja Dja Wurrung people and create meaningful connections.

Don’t miss this transformative workshop – reserve your spot today!

· Ian Potter Lakeside Precinct Lawn, Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne on Wednesday 5 July, 1pm.

Become a Justice of

the Peace

The Department of Justice and Community Safety is looking to appoint new Justices of the Peace in the Casey area.

Justice of the Peace volunteers play an important role in the Justice system and provide a valuable and accessible authorised witnessing service to all members of the community.

Two one-hour online information sessions are being held to provide more detail about the role and give people the opportunity to meet JPs and staff from the Honorary Justice Services Support team.

People of all cultural and professional backgrounds are encouraged to apply and attendance at an information session is mandatory to proceed to the application and recruitment stages.

Information session one: Thursday 29 June at 1pm.

Information session two: Thursday 6 July at 6pm.

· To submit your application and register for an information session, please visit: https://www.volunteer.com.au/volunteering/196659/become-a-justice-of-the-peacefor-the-casey-community

New Playground in Botanic Ridge

Botanic Ridge Village will be opening a brand new play space at the shopping centre over the school holidays and to celebrate families can enjoy three days of free pirate themed fun! Wednesday will feature a pirate treasure hunt, pirate face painting and free fairy floss. Thursday will feature a pirate keyring making, pirate tattoos and free pop-corn.

And on Friday there will be pirate dot craft, balloon twisting and free fairy floss. Visit botanicridgevillage.com.au for full details. · 10 Hummingbird Drive, Botanic Ridge on Wednesday 5 July - Friday 7 July, 11am-2pm.

The Lost Dogs’ Disco

Calling all dog lovers! This winter a pack of dogs are moving into the Bunjil Place Plaza to have some fun.

The Lost Dogs’ Disco is a temporary sculpture that celebrates the place of dogs in our lives. Visitors journey through an immersive installation of 16 dogs, some up to 5.5m tall, all in various states of repose – curled-up, standing,

even touching noses.

There are four distinct characters, inspired by three dog breeds: Poodles, Bull Terriers and Dachshunds.

As visitors journey through the happy pack, the dogs’ coats light up and they greet passersby with happy grunts to celebrate each new person’s arrival.

The Lost Dogs’ Disco is a hallowed place for dogs and every newcomer to the disco is greeted as a fellow disco dog.

The installation features a custom sound design of electronic music that captures the beauty and pathos of a dog’s life including a chorus of barks, growls, howls and all kinds of doggie hullabaloo. FREE and family friendly.

· Bunjil Place, 2 Patrick Northeast Drive, Warren from Saturday 24 June - Sunday 16 July, 10am-10pm.

Woodworkers Expo

Presented as part of the City of Casey Winter Arts Festival, the Berwick District Woodworkers will open their doors to the public to showcase the incredible work of members, including furniture, woodturning, carving, pyrography, scroll saw work, rocking horses, toys, and a range of other aspects of woodworking.

The expo will feature work at all skill levels from beginners to national award winners, with live demonstrations of various woodworking techniques throughout the weekend.

There will also be a raffle, activities for children, an opportunity to purchase pieces for sale, and the Farmers Market on the Saturday morning. You can also watch the second chain saw carving sculpture come to life.

Last year was the Powerful Owl … can you guess what it will be this year?

The Berwick Woodworkers Club welcomes visitors of all ages and interests to attend this free event.

· Old Cheese Factory, 34 Homestead Road, Berwick, Friday 7 July 5pm-8pm, Saturday 8

Dreamtime Storytelling with puppets

The Royal Botanic Gardens

Cranbourne are privileged to have Uncle Ron Murray, a proud Wamba Wamba man, as their storyteller during this free NAIDOC event.

With his inspiring journey and vast knowledge of first nations culture, Uncle Ron enriches our understanding and appreciation of first nations heritage. Join the team and experience his powerful storytelling, gaining valuable insights along the way.

Based on the Warner Bros. Movie Elf starring Will Ferrel.

Follow Buddy the Elf as he travels to New York to find his Dad Walter Hobbs and the craziness that ensues.

Featuring show stopping Musical numbers,beautiful costumes and live orchestra this might just be your favourite musical ever. This maybe the most affordable family fun you can have at a musical during the July school holidays and help to celebrate an early Christmas in July.

Join in the interactive snowball fight with the elves, come dressed in your favourite Christmas character costume for prizes and giveaways. Tickets available online.

· Cranbourne Community Theatre, Brunt Street, Cranbourne on Friday 30 June and Saturday 1 July.

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.

July 9am-5pm and Sunday 9 July 9am-5pm.

What’s all the buzz about?

Primary shcool aged kids are encouraged to come and learn all about our important native insect pollinators at this free school holiday event.

Kids will learn how to create their own pollinatorfriendly garden at home.

They will also get to make an insect hotel to take home and put up in their gardens. Please bring along a clean tin can for creating your own insect hotel.

All other materials will be provided.

· Lynbrook Community Centre, 2 Harris St, Lynbrook on Wednesday 5 July, 11am-12:30pm.

Mini Bakers School

The kids can get creative in the kitchen at Botanic Ridge Village’s Mini Bakers school holiday workshops.

Enjoy free cupcake, donut and gingerbread decorating activities. Visit botanicridgevillage.com.au for full details.

· 10 Hummingbird Drive, Botanic Ridge on Wednesday 21 June to Friday 23 June, 11am – 2pm.

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 24 June from 9am to 2pm.

Elf the Musical

Elf the Musical is a hilarious, full belly, laugh out loud musical- you will not want to miss.

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. Berwick Farmers Market

The Berwick Farmers Market at The Old Cheese Factory is held every 2nd Saturday monthly. You’ll find fresh fruit and vegetables, free range eggs and meats, olives and oil, honey, nuts and grains, dairy and cheeses, breads and pastries and much more!

There’s coffee and tea, loads for brekkie or to take home for lunch.

Entry is by voluntary gold coin donation Well behaved dogs on a leash are permitted at the market.

· Old Cheese Factory, 34 Homestead Road, Berwick on Saturday 8 July, 8am-12:30pm.

CRANBOURNE U3A

Make the most of your retirement!

Tutors available to teach art using various mediums. A variety of crafts including knitting, patchwork and sewing, card making, and calligraphy. Chess, line dancing and table tennis and cycling groups welcome you.

Would you like to play the Ukelele, or just singalong for fun? We can help.

We also have an Italian class.

If you would like to tutor a class, contact us with details of your talents, we welcome new opportunities.

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

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

Breakout talent in Narre

Narre Warren youngsters are embracing the fun of hip-hop dancing, as part of an Oakgrove Community Centre dance program across a number of age ranges.

Okie Dokie Dance is running classes from 12.30pm to 1pm for pre-schoolers older than 2, then eight to 12 year-olds from 4pm to 5pm on Mondays, five to seven year-olds from 4pm to 4.45pm on Tuesdays and preschoolers from 9.15am to 9.45am, 13-16 year-olds from 4pm to 4.45pm, crew from 4.45pm to 5.30pm and adults from 5.30pm to 6.15pm onWednesdays.

Teacher Naomi McLeod said the classes are open to children of all ages.

“I think the children get a lot out of it,“ she said.

“I think every children needs to dance.“

Ms McLeod’s 17-year-old daughter Ashley is studying dance and also provides teaching help during the classes.

Ms McLeod said the classes are designed to support children’s self-confidence and motor skills.

The classes are open to a range of age groups. 340566

“Every child learns at their own pace,“ she said.

“It makes a big difference.“

Star News photographer Gary Sissons visited one of the classes on Wednesday 14 June to capture the fun and energetic moves.

For more information on the classes, visit rb.gy/1jqpi

340566

The teenage group of dancers taking a pose.

· Ian Potter Lakeside Precinct Lawn, Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne on Tuesday 4 July, 11am or 1pm.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Capital works to top $74m

By Matthew Sims

Casey Council has adopted its budget for the 2023-24 financial year, which has passed on the State Government’s 3.5 per cent rate cap.

During the council’s meeting on Tuesday 20 June, administrators also adopted its Council Plan 2021-25 Year 3 Review and Annual Action Plan 2023/24 documents.

The budget outlined an underlying operating deficit of $14.48 million with a total expenditure of $466.4 million and a revenue of $583.7 million.

Administrator and acting chair Cameron Boardman said the budget aimed to deliver stronger connections and places, platforms for community engagement and ensure the council was future-ready.

“We need to adopt flexibility and nimbleness,“ he said.

MrBoardmansaidthecounciltook“nogreat pride“ in passing on the maximum rate rise.

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

As a teen, Dandenong-based basketballer Yout Gai took a giant leap to grab a full scholarship at South Plains College in Texas, USA.

Four years later, Gai – also known as YG –has come out the other side with a comms and media degree at Abilene Christian University.

Standing tall at 211 centimetres, he’s on the brink of the next step with dreams of the NBA. And later he hopes to get into business and to help people.

Now begins the “real world”, as he puts it.

“The job is not done.”

Gai admits there’s been tough times, missing his family and close friends back at home. Now he hopes to forge a better life for his family by going pro.

“I’ve just been trying to keep my mind focused, accepting that I’m not going to go home.

“Now there’s bigger things to come. I want to keep getting better and going places.

“I’ve made my family proud and I want to make them prouder.”

Gai acknowledges his own parents’ quest for a better life when they fled with him, his siblings and first cousins from war in South Sudan.

They sheltered in a refugee camp in Kenya and then migrated to Australia when he was 5.

“We couldn’t fly out of our own country because the airports were not safe.We had to first get to another country nearby.

“My grandparents stayed back in South Sudan because they said it was better to take the kids to live a life.

“My first cousins’ parents also sacrificed for them to make space for their kids.”

They settled in Ringwood, among the first intake of South Sudanese refugees. They felt like ‘the Lost Boys’ in this strange new land.

After playing some footy and soccer, Gai followed his brother into basketball. A trip to Frankston to watch a South Sudanese tournament lit the fire within.

“That’s when I really connected – seeing other people like me and the great things they were doing.

“It was all age groups, professionals, people coming from overseas. I thought that could be me as well.

“I saw the friendships, people having a great time - you meet your best friends though basketball – at that point, I fell in love with it.”

Gai rose through the underage ranks at Heathmont Hornets, and the youth and mens teams at Ringwood Hawks.

Mentors like mens head coach Ken Harrington told the high-scoring forward and guard that he could be a player.

The versatile player was more agile and athletic than most at his height.

They told him to “keep dreaming big and remember NBA is the goal if you want it,” Gai recalls.

“We are operating in an inflationary environment nationally,“ he said.

“It is something that unfortunately, we have no option but to pass on.

“There are many people within the community that are undergoing significant financial hardship.

“It is a difficult decision to make.“

The budget outlined $238.3 million would be raised through general rates, with $54.5 million expected to be raised from the Waste Service Charge, together with $1.6 million expected supplementary waste charges expected to occur during the 2023/24 financial year.

The 2023/24 capital works program proposes the investment of $74.82 million to see completion of the previous financial year’s projects, including $16.65 million for new assets, $31.58 million of renewal works, $25.08 million of upgrades to existing facilities and $1.51 million to expand existing assets.

This will deliver $20.56 million in roads works, $3.41 million in footpaths and cycleways, $4.85 million in drainage works, $19.37 million in recreational, leisure and community facilities and $6.2 million in parks, open space and streetscapes.

Some of the highlights of the 2023/24 capital works program would include the Robert Booth Reserve AFL, cricket and netball pavilion, the Ballarto Road and South Gippsland Highway intersection upgrade, construction of sections of Tooradin Station and Fisheries Road and Casey Fields’ Ovals 4 and 5 pavilion upgrade.

Renewal and upgrade works would include works at Ray Bastin Reserve, Pearcedale Reserve Pavilion, Max Pawsey Tennis Pavilion, Casey Fields Athletics Track and Lynbrook Family and Community Centre.

Administrator Miguel Belmar said considering the increasing cost of living, the council had decided to pass on a relief package for

ratepayers, which would include deferment of legal action and suspension of interest on approval arrangements.

“Council is aware of the situation,“ he said.

“We are well versed in this.“

Mr Belmar said the council had also provided an additional $135,000 towards the Community Grants program and an extra $50,000 per year for two years to the existing Events Funding program

“The aim is to prioritise long-term economic and environmental sustainability,“ he said.

Casey Council scheduled a special meeting at 4pm on Tuesday 30 May to hear submissions on the draft document.

However, as no submitter elected to speak on their submission, the council cancelled the meeting.

To view the budget documents, visit conversations.casey.vic.gov.au/budget-councilplan-actions

YG

At 18, he was recruited by the high-ranked South Plains College in Texas off the back of a sensational highlights video featuring his dunks and skills that “most seven-footers don’t really do”.

With study paid for and an appetite for travel, Gai was excited to get started.

“People always say the basketball is better over here. I want to be the best I can be so why not play with the best?”

He was part of an all-conquering South Plains team crowned Fiesta Bowl Junior College Shootout Champions in 2019, and the No.1 ranked ‘jun co’ team in the US in 2020.

At Ablilene Christian University, Gai went up to division 1 college level. After a decent first year, his stats were down and he didn’t play as often as he’d have liked in his Senior season.

“I don’t really want to look at that negatively – things don’t always fall your way but God will help me find a way and has kept me strong,” he says.

In the meantime, his faith got more profound.

“I’m competing at the highest level, made great friends and I’ve got closer to God. It’s been one of the greatest decisions I’ve made (to come to Abilene).

“My game is more for the professional side than for college. There’s more space and I can show more of my game - it’s not as congested and quick as college basketball.

“I know I’m capable of playing anywhere and I believe in myself and that I’m going to

get opportunities to play somewhere.”

James Kerr, his coach and mentor at Dandenong-based Red Roo Sport, has been urging Gai and other young talent to aim high and head overseas.

He says Gai is a great role-model for not only his basketball but applying himself to his education.

“There are no easy roads especially on the road to success”.

Gai regards Kerr as like a “guardian”, who’s always given him time, advice and held him to account.

“Words can’t describe what he’s done for us. He’s kept us away from the negative things out there, and on the right path. He’s made sure I’m focused doing school and basketball.

“He’s helped me be the best person and the best basketballer I could be.

“For all of that I’m grateful. He’s helped me get to where I am today.”

Oyiti Amum was one of the friends who inspired Gai to join Red Roo.

Amum, a supremely talented young leader, also gained a US college scholarship, but his journey was derailed during Covid lockdowns.

In 2021, he returned to Australia, his mental health suffered and he took his own life.

“He was like my brother. I loved him, man.

“I couldn’t believe it. In 2021 I’m in juco (junior college) and in the middle of the night I hear a phone call and heard that he was gone.”

Stranded in the US, Gai said it was hard to take that he couldn’t be there for his friend and be there at his funeral.

The depths of Covid were “scary times”. Gai worried for the health of his family at home, not knowing how “big” the virus was going to be.

At the same time, he made the most of his time on campus, learnt new skills like making a business web page and had a stellar basketball season.

“I decided the best thing I could do was to keep playing and grinding it out. That’s the least I could do.

“My parents would keep saying we’re fine. We’ve got family here, they can look after us.

“I’ve always seen myself as mentally strong with whatever is thrown at me.”

Gai’s tip for up-and-comers is to keep being willing to learn. He reels off a list of affirmations that give a clue to his mental resolve.

“Coaches love it when you’re asking questions because it shows you want to keep learning.

“Keep feeding off people who have more experience than you.

“If someone is doing something a bit better than you, put yourself out of your comfort zone and ask – just keep on improving.

“Stay focused.Things will come together if you keep your head down.

“Keep striving for the prize. Things don’t come easy otherwise everyone will do it.”

And the final one –“don’t let other people’s opinions decide your fate.”

‘The job is not done’: Courage and talent pay off for

Yuot Gai after graduating at Abilene Christian University.

Yuot Gai cheers on teammates with the Abilene Christian University Wildcats.

Yuot Gai on court for the Abilene Christian University Wildcats.

Programmed for success

Lyndale Secondary College offers great advantages in the breadth of curriculum offerings. There is provision for specialist learning areas and facilities, extensive staff professional development and a wide range of co-curricular programs which contribute to the fullest development of the student’s academic, cultural, artistic, social and sporting achievements, while still maintaining a sense of belonging essential in all great schools.

Select Entry Accelerated Learning Program

Lyndale Secondary College is one of a small number of Department of Education Schools in the state which is accredited to provide Select Entry programs for gifted students. The acceleration process is designed to cater for the needs of the highly academically talented student.The program also emphasises the college’s strong belief in pastoral care and ensures that all students are effectively guided through their secondary years of schooling.

The Select Entry Accelerated Learning Program (SEAL) course involves:

· An intensive and fast paced curriculum

· Focus on complex and abstract material

· Emphasis on higher thought processes (problem solving and analysis)

· Opportunities to participate in a variety of academic competitions

· Visit https://lyndale.vic.edu.au/acceleratedlearning/ for more information.

Building Program

Our new and engaging spaces connect and support our students to improve learning outcomes. We have completed building our Performing Arts centre, STEM building, Library, Administration building, and Senior School building. We are now eagerly waiting for the completion of new sporting facilities.

We welcome your interest in our college. For School Tours, call us at 9795 2366.

Lyndale Secondary College offers a great curriculum.

College hosts committee

Cranbourne Secondary College was the venue on Thursday for Cassandra Fernando MP, Zoe Daniel, Lisa Chesters MP and Zoe McKenzie MP, Members of the House of Representatives, Standing Committee on Employment, Education and Training.

The committee contacted Cranbourne Secondary College due to the excellent range of subjects and programs available at the school. The committee focused on better understanding student perceptions and status of Voca-

tional Education and Training. They heard from a panel of students from Years 10 to 12 about the careers options that the college provided them.

The students spoke about how the teachers and the school had helped them in the decision-making of the subject areas that they are now pursuing.

Assistant Principal George Massouris and VET leader Allison Wall toured with the group around the school facilities and heard

from students and staff about the diverse offerings the college can make available to the students.

Cranbourne Secondary College is a leader in vocational subject offerings in the region with its state-of-the-art Trade Training Centre along with numerous other industry standard learning spaces.

Principal David Caughey said: “The committee hearing was streamed live and provided an excellent opportunity for students to

share their experiences and have their voices heard and valued.

The College highly values student voice and agency, especially in relation to career and pathways education and associated opportunities at the College.

It was fantastic to hear students articulate their learning in relation to pathways education as well as better understanding how information is used by governments in relation to planning and policy development.”

Grants help growing

Berwick Fields Primary School students were overjoyed to hear that their much-loved school garden is receiving much-needed funding.

The school is receiving a $1000 grant from Woolworths and Landcare Australia via the 2023 Woolworths Junior Landcare Grants program to help grow more produce as part of their garden and kitchen program which was first launched in 2010 as part of the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Program.

STEM teacher Mick Holden said the school uses the garden to not only teach the students how to manage a small vegetable patch, as well as developing teamwork skills, but it also allows the students to recognise where the food on their plate comes from and gives them more appreciation for it.

“If you ask some of the preps where their food comes from, they don’t know anywhere other than ‘Woolies’,“ he said.

On top of a garden club which attracts between 20 and 35 students every Wednesday recess, garden and kitchen activities are integrated into the school’s curriculum.

After a lack of activity at the garden during the Covid lockdowns, this year’s produce will be the result of an entirely new crop, including snow peas, cucumber, broccoli and bok choy.

The students will then use all of the produce, as well as eggs from chickens, in their kitchen classes.

The students enjoy making meals and snacks such as lasagne, pizza, shortbreads, garlic & herb bread and zucchini slice, all of which are vegetarian.

Mr Holden said small groups of students are able to go to the garden if they have disengaged and are allowed to help with the constant maintenance of the garden before going back to their studies.

“A lot of them have taken what they’ve learnt back home,“ he said.

Grade 6 student Thinesha said working in the garden is “really fun“.

Mr Holden said the efforts of the classes and the Garden Club fed into the school’s sustainable efforts, keeping potential waste out of landfill and composting food waste from the school’s kitchen.

“It’s good getting to be involved in the whole process,“ he said.

STEM teacher Michael Holden is grateful for the opportunities that the garden has given the students.

“In the end, it all helps the kids,“ he said.

Woolworths state manager Sarah Gooding said they were keen to see students enjoy their upgraded or new gardens thanks to the grants.

“Bringing the classroom to the great outdoors and encouraging kids to get hands-on with nature is always something we’re excited to see, and we hope all of the schools across Berwick will have fun working on their new projects,“ she said.

The ‘wetland’ area at the back of the school is currently unmanageable, but there are

hopes that it will soon be converted into a garden housing indigenous products and food.

Other local recipients included Edrington Park Child Care and Kindergarten and the Narre Warren YMCA Early Learning Centre.

For more information about local projects, visit woolworthsgrantsmap.juniorlandcare. org.au.

Berwick Fields Primary School Grade 4 and 6 students ate the fruits of their labour using ingredients from the garden in the kitchen. 341830 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

Fraser with one of the school’s chickens named Jeffery. 341830

Skye with Coconut the chicken. 341830

Indy with a vine of snow peas. 341830

The students are excitedly waiting for the school’s cauliflower to finish growing. 341830

Questioning meeting time

By Emily Chapman Laing

Narre Warren local Stephen Matulec is rallying the community to pressure Casey council to amend their meeting times.

The monthly meetings are currently held onTuesdays at 4pm, and Mr Matulec has started both a paper and e-petition to present to the council administrators in favour of changing this to 7pm.

“A lot of people are upset because they want to attend meetings but can’t because of the start time,“ Mr Matuelc said.

“Being a ratepayer I’d like to attend, but unfortunately I have to work at that time,“ local Cheryse Schembri said.

Casey Locals Wayne Delaney and Tony Jones said being “public servants“, the administrators should be providing council meetings with the highest availability to their constituents.

“It should be 7:30 pm so all can attend, they work for us not themselves,“ Mr Jones said.

“They work and are paid by us,“ Mr Delaney said.

Sotiria Stratis said 4pm is a “ridiculous time“ for the council meetings.

Casey local Elizabeth Kirkwood said the council plan their meetings to suit their “work days, time [and] staff availability“.

“Unfortunately regardless of what time or day it is there will always be someone who isn’t happy cause it doesn’t fit into their schedule,“ she said.

Emma Materne said she doesn’t see any benefit or difference to changing the time.

“You need to pre-submit your questions before the meeting anyway and in my disappointing experience, the entire question I put forward was reworded and summarised in a way that it was turned it into something totally different and pointless,“ she said.

“Which ironically proved my point- [the ad-

ministrators] aren’t accountable for anything.

“And 4pm just shows the community they aren’t inclusive of all- parents would not be able to attend for one, and if you were able to finish work earlier, you would still likely be stuck in endless traffic trying to get back into the area at that time anyway.“

Tania Sacco said she feels like Casey residents are the “losers“, being robbed of their “representation“ and “support“.

“Three administrators are being paid more than all the councillors put together,“ she said.

“They halved the meetings, and changed the time to one that worked within their work-

ing hours, rather than staying at a time where the general public could attend.

“Surely once a fortnight, time in lieu and a little common sense could have prevailed.“

Local resident Paul Mathew offered a solution, suggesting the council “change the day and time frequently, so to give the rate payers the opportunity to plan around it, so they can attend if they wish“.

South East Metropolitan MP David Limbrick, under whom Mr Matulec works, raised the issue of the council meeting time in a State Parliament meeting on 4 May.

City of Casey Head of Governance, Integrity

and Legal Support, Michelle Tipton says the council’s governance rules prevent the administrators from changing the meeting time until 2024.

However, Mr Matulec explained “The Local Government Act 2020 allows for Councils to adopt its own local governance rules“.

“Currently under Casey’s local governance rules, the meeting time cannot be reviewed until December,“ he said.

“But The Local Government Act 2020 60(3) says ’A Council may amend its governance rules.’.“

Mr Matulec said the council has the power the amend these governance rules at any time.

“Since the administrators have the power to change the rules, we want them to amend them as soon as possible to consider a better meeting time,“ he said.

While Mr Matulec is a member of the Liberal Democratic Party, he said the petition was something he decided to pursue for the community independently.

“I believe this petition should be above politics, because if people are being excluded, then we can’t even discuss politics or express our opinions,“ he said.

“Every other council in the area have their meetings at 7pm, so I don’t know why Casey can’t do the same.

“Is it because they want to knock-off at five o’clock or because they don’t want public attendance to criticise them?“

Cardinia Shire Council, City of Monash, City of Greater Dandenong, City of Frankston, City of Kingston and City of Knox each hold their monthly council meetings at 7pm.

Mr Matulec is hoping to be out and about in Casey gathering signatures for the petition.

“Check my socials for updates,“ he said.

The link to the e-petition can be found at https://chng.it/ZTqRLdLD

Stephen Matulec. 342333

Picture: EMILY CHAPMAN LAING

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• Botanic Ridge Coles Botanic Ridge Village - 10 Hummingbird Drive

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2040 South Gippsland Hwy

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• Clyde North Selandra Rise Retirement Village 5 Harmony Chase

• Clyde North Selandra Community Hub 7-9 Selandra Boulevard

• Clyde North Selandra Rise Shopping Centre Selandra Boulevard & Linsell Boulevard

• Clyde North Lifestyle Berwick Waters 10 Skylark Boulevard

• Cranbourne Cranbourne Library 65 BerwickCranbourne Road

• Cranbourne Cranbourne

Basketball and Sports Centre 65

Berwick - Cranbourne Road

• Cranbourne Life Be In It 65

Berwick - Cranbourne Road

• Cranbourne Coles Express 1120 Cnr Sladen Street & Cemetery Roads

• Cranbourne Cranbourne Senior Citizens Club 1 Codrington Street

• Cranbourne BP Service Station 1025-1045 Frankston Cranbourne Road

• Cranbourne Cranbourne Bowls Club 5 Grant Street

• Cranbourne Cranbourne Newsagency 105 High Street

• Cranbourne Coles Cranbourne High Street (Cranbourne Park Shopping Centre)

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• Cranbourne Cranbourne RSL 1475 South Gippsland Highway

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• Cranbourne Cranbourne Community House 49-51

Valepark Crescent

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Community Centre 65 BerwickCranbourne Road

• Cranbourne East Shopping On Clyde 280 Berwick-Cranbourne Road

• Cranbourne East Blue Hills Rise 200-240 BerwickCranbourne Road

• Cranbourne East Hunt Club Shopping Centre 1 Linsell Boulevard

• Cranbourne North The Avenue Shopping Centre Cnr William Thwaites Boulevard & Thompsons Road

• Cranbourne North Merinda Park Learning & Community Centre 141-147 Endeavour drive

• Cranbourne North Apco

Cranbourne North 315 Narre

Warren - Cranbourne Road

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Cranbourne 399 Narre WarrenCranbourne Road

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• Cranbourne North Thompson Parkway Newsagency South Gippsland Hwy & Thompsons Road

• Cranbourne North IGA

Supermarket - Eve Estate Shop 1/2-10 William Thwaites Boulevard

• Cranbourne West Apco Service Station 810 DandenongHastings Road

• Cranbourne West Coles

Cranbourne West Duff Street (Sandhurst Centre)

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• Cranbourne West IGA Clarinda Park 85 Everlasting Boulevard

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• Hampton Park Shopping Centre 55 Hallam Road Hampton Park

• Lynbrook Lynbrook Community Centre 2 Lynbrook Boulevard & Harris Street

• Lynbrook Lynbrook

Newsagency 75 Lynbrook Boulevard (Lynbrook Village Shopping Centre)

• Lyndhurst Liberty 210 Dandenong Hastings Road

• Lyndhurst Caltex 945

Thompsons Road & Lyndhurst Boulevard

• Lyndhurst Marriot Waters Shopping Centre Thompsons Road & Marriott Boulevard

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Supermarket Thompsons Road & Marriott Boulevard (Marriot Waters Shopping Centre)

• Narre Warren South Ritchies Amberly Park 245 Ormond Road (Amberly Park Shopping Centre)

• Narre Warren South Coles 400 Narre Warren - Cranbourne Road (Casey Central Shopping Centre)

• Narre Warren South Casey News and Lotto Shop 156, 400 Narre Warren - Cranbourne Road (Casey Central Shopping Centre)

• Skye BP Service Station Western Port Highway & Hall Road

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•After your advertisement has run for 13 weeks you must call us each fortnight to renew it for a further 2 week period AND reduce the price of your item by a minimum 5% for items in the “For Sale” section or 3% for items in the “Motoring” section. This process may continue until you have sold your item. If we do not hear from you we will assume you have sold your item and your advertisement will not appear.

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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.

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• Keep accurate and updated records of customer interactions and sales leads.

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The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme. Send your application letter and resume to:

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Print and Online Sales Executive Star News Group

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.

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The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme. Send your application letter and resume to:

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SPORT 400 up for harness heroes

By Michael Floyd

The Cranbourne Harness Racing Club celebrated a significant milestone last Friday night when two-year-old pacer Smoken Ace became the 400th winner produced at the club’s training centre.

On debut for former New Zealander Kyle Marshall, Smoken Ace defied a significant betting drift to defeat odds-on favourite The Bigboss to bring up the milestone.

“I couldn’t be happier for Kyle and for everyone at the centre,” said club President David Scott.

“To see the success our trainers are having now is a fantastic endorsement of what the facility set out to achieve when it opened a decade ago.”

The Centre opened in 2012 with the goal of providing a facility for professional, semiprofessional and hobby trainers to participate in the sport without the significant cost associated with purchasing and maintaining their own private establishment.

The site is currently home to 15 trainers and over 60 horses, and with 30 winners already this season it is on track to break its previous record of 56 winners in a calendar year.

Such is the success of the centre, trainers from interstate and overseas have relocated to Cranbourne, including the centre’s most recent addition, Kyle Marshall, who moved from New Zealand to pursue a career in the sport earlier this year.

“Kyle has really hit the ground running since arriving at Cranbourne,” Scott explained.

“It was a big step for both Kyle and his partner Sophie to leave New Zealand to try and make a career in the sport.

“There are no guarantees in racing, but they’re certainly going the right way about making it work for them, just as fellow kiwis Craig andTony Jamieson did when they moved to Cranbourne from New Zealand 12 months ago.”

The centre has enjoyed considerable suc-

cess at the upper echelon of the sport.

The first Cranbourne-trained black type winner came when Kira Joy claimed the group 2 Vicbred Platinum Pace in September 2014, while its first group 1 winner landed when Michael Hughes’s 2016/17 Australian 3YO Trotter of The Year, Cruisin Around, captured the Breeders Crown and Vicbred Super Series finals.

More recently, Jayne Davies ended her first season at Cranbourne with victory in the group 1 Vicbred Super Series with stable flag

bearer Captain Bellasario.

Also, the immensely popular Bulletproof Boy has recorded multiple group 2 victories since trainer Scott Ewen relocated from South Australia and has now amassed over $400,000 in earnings.

While Scott was rightfully proud of the group race success achieved out of the centre, he was equally pleased with the opportunities the centre provides to trainers at all stages of their careers both on and off the training track.

“Jayne (Davies) is a legend of the sport, and

when she and her partner Noel decided to sell their Clyde property, they were able to remain involved in the sport by relocating to the Cranbourne Training Centre,” Scott said proudly.

“Not only are they able to stay involved in harness racing, but they are able to share their knowledge with people making their way in the sport, people like Jamie Kirk who trained his first career winner earlier this year.”

The centre did not have to wait long for its 401st winner with Sir Chow scoring at Melton on Saturday night for the Jamieson brothers.

Let’s ‘Sea’ who’s the best...Seagulls take on Sea Eagles

By David Nagel

The foundations of the Tooradin Rec Reserve will be rocking on Saturday when ‘blockbusters galore’ take place between the Seagulls and Inverloch-Kongwak in the West Gippsland Football Netball Competition (WGFNC).

Fair dinkum you couldn’t request a better afternoon of community sport, with the top-two teams in senior and reserve football - and A Grade netball – going head-to-head in the biggest contest of the home-and-away season.

Remarkably, Inverloch-Kongwak is yet to lose a game of football in seniors, reserves and thirds this year, while the Seagulls are hot on their heels having lost just one game in the top-two divisions.

In netball, the A Grade teams of both clubs are set for a mammoth showdown with both being undefeated after 10 rounds.

It doesn’t get much bigger than this!

The senior game between the Seagulls and Sea Eagles – yep, watch us stuff that up before the end of this article – promises to be an absolute beauty with the reigning champions Tooradin trying to stave off the most powerful move from a challenger.

It was only 12 months ago when Tooradin was the upstart contender, as it tried successfully to break a 25-year drought and unseat Phillip Island from its throne.

This time…the roles are reversed!

Tooradin (the Seagulls…I think) was magnificent in 2022, winning a stunning premiership that brought a tear to many a grownman’s eye.

But key parts to that triumph, Brady Egan, Steve Robb, James Trezise, Dylan Paarlberg, Blake Grewar, Dylan Wilson, Luke McKenna, Matt Livermore and Adam Galea have had either marginal or no impact this season.

Egan and Robb sought clearances, while Trezise has been a huge success story after being selected by Richmond in the 2023 AFL Mid-Season Draft.

He has played no games for the Seagulls this season – and won’t be - while Paarlberg, Grewar, Wilson and McKenna have played just four games combined this year.

Galea and Livermore have both played a handful of games, and are sure to be key contributors if the Gulls are to make it back-toback crowns this year.

That sort of turnover would usually have a huge impact on a club, but the Gulls have somehow continued to thrive.

Hayden Bertoli-Simmonds has been a wonderful acquisition to the midfield, while the experienced Ray Lengyel showed some promising signs in the early stages of the season.

Will Lumby has been competitive in the ruck; Panos Papas has been lively as a small forward, while a fully-fit Brad Lenders is

playing some of the best footy of his career in defence.

And then there’s the absolute top shelf, with Collingwood premiership player Brent Macaffer dominating the midfield battles, and ruck-forward Piva Wright capable of anything on his day.

Just flick the mind back to grand final day and a certain medal that Piva had hanging around his neck!

And then there’s Adam Oxley, the best attacking half-back in the WGFNC for the last two years who is now kicking goals for fun.

Oxley is an athletic beast, and the Sea Eagles (Inverloch…I hope), will need to be at their defensive and watchful best to keep Oxley and Stewart Scanlon from hitting the scoreboard this weekend.

Not that defence will totally dominate the thoughts of Sea Eagles coach Tom Hams… because Inverloch also has some attacking weaponry at its disposal as well.

Let’s be frank…the Sea Eagles ended 2022

in the most disappointing fashion of all finalists.

Finishing third they were knocked out on week one by sixth-placed Warragul Industrials…on a day when the premiership contender just failed to find answers and froze in front of the big sticks.

Hams has taken over the reins from Ben Soumilas and, as a consequence of that loss, has taken over a highly-motivated group!

It’s a group that was weakened by the loss of key stars like running-machine Corey Casey, the rock-solid Shem Hawking, and dangerous forwards Tristan Van Driel and Jenson Garnham…but the Sea Eagles have well-and-truly outweighed those negatives with the acquisition of some stars.

There is no more recognisable figure in the WGFNC than star midfielder Andy Soumilas, while Bailey Patterson, Kairon Dorling and Tate Short have bolstered an already frugal defence.

And in Nick Baltas and Will Hams, the Sea Eagles have latched on to two of the most damaging forward-half players in the WGFNC this season.

There will be some intriguing match-ups this week, but the possibility of Short lining up on Oxley is one to get the mouth-watering.

Jarvis Pryor or Patterson will likely get the job on Scanlon, while Michael Eales has the bulk and physicality to match it with Wright when he drifts down to the goal-square.

But these big games are most often won in the midfield.

Macaffer, Bertoli-Simmonds and Livermore…versus Soumilas, Oscar Toussaint and Ethan Park…the prospect of such a clash is seriously exciting.

This one will be a thriller…with Inverloch to prevail by three points.

Michael Eales and Piva Wright will be just two of the stars on show when Tooradin-Dalmore host Inverloch-Kongwak on Saturday. 282025 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Sophie Jefferies,the partner of Kyle Marshall,with Smoken Aces ahead of his debut win at Shepparton. 342858

Picture: MICHAEL FLOYD

SPORT Champs to clash on court

By David Nagel

It’s the coming together of two champion teams that we’ve all been waiting for.

Tooradin-Dalmore host Inverloch-Kongwak this Saturday in the biggest A Grade game of the WGFNC home-and-away season.

Sure they’ll meet again in round 16 at Inverloch, but this is the only time this season that both teams will lock horns as undefeated combatants.

These two great clubs have won the last two premiership cups in the WGFNC.

The Seagulls, in their first year in the competittion, took out the 2019 premiership after dominating the South East Football Netball League (SEFNL) in the previous two seasons as well.

Covid put a stop to any joyous celebrations in 2020 and ’21, before Inverloch-Kongwak won a thrilling grand final against Bunyip last year.

While the Sea Eagles from Inverloch were celebrating, the Seagulls from Tooradin were devising a plan to get back to where they rightfully belong.

Kelly Haynes and her team are not used to being spectators on grand final day…and they decided to do something about it.

Extra training sessions through the off-

season had the Gulls ready to soar and make a huge bid for this year’s title. But to win it… they’ll have to surge past Inverloch.

Destiny in the Dees hands

By Jonty Ralphsmith

With a six-point win over St Paul’s McKinnon, Springvale Districts has primed itself for a top-five finish in Division One of the Southern Football Netball League.

The win was the fifth of the Demons’ season, which has them on track for 10 at the halfway point – two ahead of last year’s tally.

Provided Springvale Districts again defeat each of the bottom four clubs in their return clashes, which appear a tier below the rest of the competition, they would likely need only one more victory to secure a finals berth.

Defeating Port Melbourne away will be tough, but they would back themselves at home over St Paul’s McKinnon and the top three teams aren’t insurmountable.

On a difficult day for footy, just 11 goals were scored at McKinnon Reserve, the visitors effectively winning six goals to five.

Matt Wetering kicked four goals in a vital key forward’s performance, while Toby Arms backed up his sensational match before the bye with another clinical game.

Arms competed strongly and played a balanced inside and outside game, accumulating 32 possessions, seven clearances and 10 inside 50s.

Liam Giove was the best player on the day, with 23 of his 25 possessions won in and under and he also won 10 clearances.

Lots of his disposals came at important junctures of the game, and he kicked an important goal on the three-quarter-time siren.

It gave Springvale Districts a seven-point lead entering the last quarter.

By forcing repeat stoppages and winning more territory against the wind than any team had all day, the Dees were able to hold St Paul’s off.

Also playing a key role was Nick Kay in the midfield, who negated St Paul’s McKinnon star Matt O’Brien.

Averaging 35 disposals in his last five weeks, he was kept to just 18 and minimal impact.

Down the road at Bentleigh, the horrendous conditions almost brought the inexperienced hosts into the contest against ladderleaders Dingley.

The Dingoes surrendered six goals in the first quarter to trail by 32 points at the first break.

The visitors hit the lead in the second quarter as they equally capitalised on the wind, but they trailed by 15 points going into the final change.

Ultimately, using the assistance of the conditions, Dingley got home by 15 points thanks to a six-goal-to-one final quarter.

Nathan Freeman put forward a monster performance with 52 disposals, while Lochie Benton was instrumental, providing x-factor

with three goals and Lachie Lamble’s leg-speed was an important piece of the puzzle.

Cranbourne, meanwhile, has eased to a comfortable win over a struggling St Kilda City team.

Trailing by seven points at quarter time, the Eagles scored 14 of 18 goals thereafter.

Marc Holt finished with five goals – his equal-best haul of the season – while Glenn and Brandon Osborne were staunch in defence.

The hosts were also bolstered by the inclusion of Casey small forward George Grey, given the Dees had a bye.

Results: Mordialloc 7.8 50 v Port Melbourne

Colts 11.16 82, Cheltenham 14.9 93 v Chelsea Heights 3.10 28, Cranbourne Eagles 16.25 121

v St Kilda City 7.6 48, St Paul’s McKinnon 5.9 39

v Springvale Districts 6.9 45, Bentleigh 12.10 82

v Dingley 15.7 97.

Ladder: Cheltenham 32, Dingley 32, Cranbourne 28, Springvale Districts 24, Port Melbourne Colts 20, St Paul’s McKinnon 20, Chelsea Heights 8, Bentleigh 8, St Kilda City 4, Mordialloc 4.

Fixture: Port Melbourne Colts v St Kilda City, Cranbourne v Chelsea Heights, St Paul’s McKinnon v Bentleigh, Dingley v Cheltenham, Springvale Districts v Mordialloc.

Jarrad Walker has put together a fantastic unit, a premiership-winning unit, with Kelsey Buxton, Lanni Pryor and Ella Sadler playing

some magnificent netball of late, while Kelly Boyd and Amy Scott are dangerous weapons at the attacking end of the court.

And then there’s Renee Pilkington…the reigning league best and fairest winner and current premiership captain!

That’s a pretty impressive CV…and that’s only from last year!

Pilkington is the glue that holds this team together, and the Seagulls will need to find a way to quell her immense skill and intensity at the contest.

A feature of the Inverloch v Bunyip games last year was just the pure desire to win every single ball, for every single second of the match.

Tooradin has the players to do it, with Ebony Mason and Jess Maher forming a formidable defensive unit that relies on the all-court pressure of players like Zoe Coventry, Stacey Sawyer and Sarah Howie to get the job done.

And in attack…goaler Alex Maher has the steadiest hands in the business.

This will be a cracker, a real showcase of WGFNC netball…but there can only be one winner.

It’s the Sea Eagles, from Inverloch…to win by three goals.

Peninsula pulls for Narre

By Marcus Uhe and David Nagel

The desire to participate against clubs of a comparable size has convinced the Narre Warren Football Netball Club to register an expression of interest to join the Mornington Peninsula Football Netball League.

The club’s executive committee met on Monday night, 19 June, and unanimously voted to file the expression. Narre Warren President Stuart Stephenson believes both the league and the club will benefit from the potential move from Outer East Football Netball.

“What we can bring to the MPFNL is increased coverage and sponsorship opportunities for MPFNL clubs,” Stephenson said.

“The footprint of that competition, there’ll be a much higher interest in the Casey and Cardinia regions.

“We think that Narre Warren, with our large supporter base, and our people being willing to travel, that there’s real financial benefits for us joining the MPFNL for those clubs, and also for ourselves.

“Outer East has been fantastic as far as its administration and running of the competition, it couldn’t do any more for us.

“It is purely based on the size of our town and the players that we have coming through, compared to the size of the towns that we’re playing against.”

The MPFNL released a statement on Wednesday 14 June welcoming expressions of interest with a desire to establish a third league, considered “an integral step in the long-term sustainability of the competition,” by MPFNL Chairman Graham Sherry.

“We’re looking to expand into a third division, because we think it makes a lot

of sense for our existing clubs,” Sherry told Star News.

“We’ve created criteria which we will take into account, for clubs expressing an interest in joining the league, and our consideration is the long-term benefit of our league, and our clubs.

“That’s what’s behind this expansion proposal.

“And it’s not new; it’s something we’ve been looking into for the last five years.”

Current MPFNL rules require approval from 75 per cent of club Presidents in order for clubs to be accepted.

“We still need the support of the clubs, and we believe we will get that support,” Sherry said.

“It relies on the clubs taking the longer view, and perhaps not being driven by selfinterest as may have been the case in the past.

“It’s about long-term benefits, and the survival and the development of our league more generally.

“We’re confident the clubs will support it; but we won’t know that until we look at what clubs have lodged an expression of interest and we determine whether it’s feasible to proceed.”

Selection criteria clubs must meet include being financially viable to the satisfaction of the league and complement the league’s geographical footprint.

Clubs wishing to join the competition have until 21 July to submit their expressions of interest before they are presented to MPNFL club presidents for final assessment.

The netball club at Narre Warren would also move leagues, in-order to maintain the strong culture at the club.

Narre Warren will file an expression of interest to join the Mornington Peninsula Football Netball League. 299107

Picture: ROB CAREW

Liam Giove won plenty of contested ball on Saturday. 337182 Picture: GARY SISSONS

Tooradin-Dalmore will need to match the intensity and skill of Renee Pilkington when the Seagulls meet Inverloch-Kongwak on Saturday. 338698 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Stinging loss for Redbacks

By Jonty Ralphsmith

A rejuvenated Keysborough has made Hampton Park look second-rate in the Redbacks first game at their 2023 home, TonyWay Recreation Reserve.

The visitors, self-focused and unaware of the conditions that awaited them, dampened club spirit, bruised player ego and raised question marks over the legitimacy of the threat Hampton Park pose.

Chris Smith’s men were unfussed at the prospect of kicking against the gale in the first quarter, going into the first break leading by nine points.

Those were the only two goals scored to that end all day.

Pressure was the blueprint for Keysborough, which laid 26 tackles in the first quarter and absorbed Hampton Park’s surge in the third, keeping the scoreboard at arm’s length.

The foundations were set by the leadership of Anthony Brannan up forward and the run of Aaron Walton.

Also crucial was the aerial competitiveness of Tom Shaw and Josh Mourant against an already short Hampton Park team missing ruck Jye King to injury.

But the Burra wasn’t Hampton Park’s only opponent on Sunday.

The Redbacks ball handling and fundamentals proved a hurdle unto their own pursuit of victory.

Where Keysborough adapted to the conditions instinctively, Hampton Park fumbled, missed kicks and through poor skill, communication and decision-making, didn’t adhere to the ball movement process.

“We will focus a lot more on groundball and contest work at training,” said coach Hayden Stanton.

“We probably thought we have been good in that area and haven’t been beaten apart from East Brighton until (Saturday) and it highlighted that some of our young players aren’t ready enough to play week in, week out, in those inside roles.

“We’re not a team that can’t be somewhere near our best each week and expect to win.”

After withholding Hampton Park in the first quarter, Keysborough kicked five in the second, including three in a two minute patch where Hampton Park didn’t get a possession.

Like powerplay fielding restrictions in the cricket, the 6-6-6 rule prevented Hampton Park from swarming defensive 50 for that period which is ultimately when the game got away from them

Brenton Wells’ and Ethan Bakes’ explosiveness was crucial in that period, with Brannan and Shaw kicking the goals.

When coach Hayden Stanton does the best and fairest votes for the game, he should give the five, four, three, two and one to son, Tanner, who ought not be sledged by teammates for preferential treatment.

The former VFL footballer ran both ways harder than his teammates and was the only Spider with the skill execution and game awareness to change lanes when moving the ball.

The Redbacks kicked four goals to zero in the third quarter, including a Declan Brunnell stunner from the boundary line against the wind to go into the last break 15 points down.

Realistically, they needed a 10-goal third quarter.

Keysborough did enough in the last stanza, stretching the final margin to 35 points as Hampton Park finished with 17 men on the field.

Multiple Hampton Park people said it is the meekest Hampton Park performance they’ve seen in their time with the club.

The injuries may not be serious, but the egos are certainly bruised, spirits have been dampened and the reputation as a genuine challenger is in question.

SPIDERS

DON’T BRING STING

In preseason, Stanton put a faster, more edgy game plan in place where they could run teams into the ground.

Last Thursday and Friday, volunteers did lots of heavy-lifting to transport canteen and bar goods, tables, chairs and more practical equipment to the venue.

There has been much frustration by many about the repeated delays of playing home games, but if Saturday is anything to go by, the Redbacks might be better staying away.

Granted, a bungle with the lights on Thursday night prohibited Hampton Park from training there prior to the first game, but they were familiar with the blowy and wide conditions they would likely face.

It was amplified on Saturday with wind the theme of all local footy matches, but they had months to mentally prepare for what they would face and were maladjusted compared to a team completely unfamiliar with what to expect.

“We’re going to have to fall in love with this joint really quickly,” Stanton said.

“Although the ground suits us, if it is going to blow like this, we’re going to have to get a lot better at using the ball and be better around the hunt because at the moment we’re not giving our forwards any looks at all.

Doveton cruises to victory

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Doveton has put its fifth consecutive win on the board and jumped to third on the Southern Division 2 ladder after overcoming the winless Black Rock at Reid Oval.

The Doves put a 42-point gap on the Jets at halftime, going on to win by 48 points.

Ruckman Dylan Chapman and leader Shannon Henwood stood up despite the blustery conditions.

Meanwhile, Skye was outclassed by Murrumbeena.

After a low-scoring start, the hosts jumped out to a 34 point halftime lead which was never reeled in.

Blake Treble continued his excellent season, while Brad Dyer scored three in the loss.

Results: East Brighton 11.12 78 v East Malvern 8.7 55, Hampton Park 4.8 32 v Keysborough 10.7 67, Highett 15.9 99 v Caulfield 11.7 73, Murrumbeena 15.9 99 v Skye 9.10 64, Doveton Doves 11.16 82 v Black Rock 5.4 34.

Ladder: East Brighton 36, Murrumbeena 28, Doveton Doves 24, Hampton Park 20, Highett 20, East Malvern 16, Caulfield 16, Skye 12, Keysborough 8, Black Rock 0.

Fixture: East Brighton v Murrumbeena, Doveton Doves v East Malvern, Hampton Park v Black Rock, Highett v Keysborough, Skye v Caulfield.

“They rely on the ball coming in quickly and our backs couldn’t cope with the avalanche of ball coming in.”

Keysborough’s coach was unaware of the dimensions, the winning method not put in place until after arriving at the ground on match-day.

Hampton Park rarely looked to change lanes – hardly were they clean enough to give themselves that opportunity.

That they were smashed in the contest was a separate, pressing issue entirely.

When they did look to try something, it tended to result in a turnover.

You could count on one hand the number of times Hampton Park used the clubroomside wing to attack despite it being the most dangerous route forward.

While Keysborough scored the first two goals against the wind, Hampton Park scored just once all day at that end – Luke O’Brien hitting the post in the last quarter.

A moment symbolic of the match was O’Brien marking 25 out directly in front, then instinctively turning around, clearly apprehensive that his kick would have the legs.

It summed up the wind and Hampton Park’s lack of confidence.

He got the distance, but it was just offline and required the kind of sweet timing Jayden Short delivers when lining up from outside 50.

They didn’t get it beyond halfway in the second quarter, unclean, inefficient and falling into the trap of going down the line, when they did get their hands on it.

Like a magnet, the wind repeatedly sucked the ball out of play, enabling a stoppage where Keysborough were getting first hands to it.

From there, the visitors were able to hit-up short leads and open the ground up to give

themselves more scoring shots.

“The ground’s not the issue – the conditions today, we didn’t get after the hunt enough, we got outmuscled around the ball,” Stanton said. “Loose balls, they were on them, in the contest they were able to take it forward and get territory on us, and our back six didn’t hold up under any high balls and they got momentum on the back of goals and we lost confidence and lost our way.

“Our brand is about shifting the opposition, moving the ball laterally, using our legs, we didn’t want to use our legs, we didn’t have the guts to take the game on when we should’ve and we played safe and we probably won the second half but didn’t win the battle.

“Forget about the size of the ground, the day was about the contested ball and we got smashed in that area.

“We had too many players who had no impact today, at all.

“And they had all their players play well.

“I’m going to try and move forward as if it was an (anomaly) and won’t be a constant.”

The club must hope he’s right – the alternative would suggest a game plan has been implemented for a group which lacks the talent to adhere to its full capacity.

17 MEN

Just as striking as the O’Brien image was Hampton Park having 17 men on the field for the dying seconds of the game.

Trent Downe limped to the bench with a minor hamstring concern despite the hosts having no rotations.

Corey Braden had been yellow carded, Jack Wilson was cautiously rested after halftime ahead of a Dandenong Stingrays game next week and Liam Myatt and Shaun Walsh were nursing niggles.

It was inconsequential to the result but symbolic of everything that went wrong onfield.

SHAW V CARVER

Tom Shaw might be struggling physically, but he did a heck of a job on Saturday.

Having played in defence at times this season and struggling to get the penetration in the kick he once had, Brannan got higher up the ground and allowed Shaw to play as the deepest forward.

He kicked three important goals.

Meanwhile, up the other end, Nathan Carver couldn’t get near it.

The delivery was poor and Andre Spina rose to the challenge of playing on the big fella.

Victory is always the sum of little wins in sport – and the contributions of the respective key forwards was one of many areas the visitors came out on top.

Daniel Zajac kicked three for Doveton. 338707

Picture: ROBERT CAREW

An intriguing period of the season awaits Hampton Park. 334586 Pictures: ROB CAREW

Dylan Smith is one of many young Burras who has performed in recent weeks. 341632