News - Berwick Star News - 27th July 2023

Set for Sandon

By Callum Goode, AAP, and Cam Lucadou-Wells

A long-delayed corruption watchdog report into planning decisions at Casey Council is set to be published within days after a late bid to block it failed.

Millionaire property developer John Woodman on Monday sought permission to appeal an earlier Supreme Court ruling dismissing his request to stop the release of the Operation Sandon report.

But his case was thrown out by a threejustice bench in the Victorian Court of Appeal after about an hour of arguments. It’s expected that the Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission will release the report on Thursday 27 July, although Mr Woodman could still take his fight to the High Court.

Mr Woodman was publicly examined across six days of public hearings in November 2019 as part of the watchdog’s probe into corrupt conduct involving councillors and property developers in the City of Casey.

The inquiry heard Mr Woodman or his companies donated to both major political parties ahead of the 2018 election and he increased a donation to Cranbourne Labor MP Pauline Richards as she was willing to support rezoning land in Cranbourne West, a claim Ms Richards denies. Lawyers for Mr Woodman on Monday claimed the watchdog breached the IBAC Act and caused him “unreasonable damage“ by examining him in public.

“Any report by the IBAC purporting to contain answers given by Mr Woodman and any comment or conclusions in the report based

on such answers is not authorised under the IBAC Act, is prepared in breach of the provisions of the IBAC Act, and is invalid and ineffective,“ their submission read.

“In his prayer for relief, Mr Woodman seeks interlocutory and final orders, including an injunction restraining the publication of the impending IBAC report and damages resulting from the reputational damage caused by his public examination.“

In response, the watchdog argued none of Mr Woodman’s grounds for appeal had any merits. The IBAC Act states an examination can be held in public if there are “exceptional circumstances“, it is in the public interest and won’t cause “unreasonable damage“ to a person’s reputation, safety or wellbeing.

The Supreme Court last year blocked the watchdog from tabling its final report into Operation Sandon after Mr Woodman claimed he wasn’t given a reasonable opportunity to respond to a draft report. The court ordered IBAC to provide footnotes supporting adverse findings made against him, allowing the developer further time to respond.

IBAC’s submissions allege Mr Woodman provided his response in January but he sought a fresh injunction in May after becoming aware of media stories that the report’s delivery to parliament was imminent.

The primary judge dismissed the case, citing the lawyer for Mr Woodman having raised no issue when informed of IBAC’s decision to examine him in public and the “egregious and unexplained“ three-and-a-half year delay in his complaint.

Continued page 5

Bonsai creativity

blooming into new life

Narre Warren’s Katherine Bennett has discovered a new passion in breathing new life into old bonsai trees.

The KB Crystal Design owner repurposes old bonsai trees from local nurseries by lacing the trees with high-quality gemstones.

“One day I looked at crystal trees and I thought, I reckon I could do better than that,“ she said.

“So I taught myself, and I’ve been doing it ever since.“

Story page 10

Narre Warren artist Katherine Bennett with one of her amethyst crystal bonsai trees. 348739

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Have a fun day out with all things animal at the 2023 Casey Pet Expo.

The expo will be held from 11.00 am to 2.00 pm on Saturday 26 August in the beautiful surrounds of Wilson Botanic Park Berwick. Come along and meet other pet owners, socialise your dogs, chat to stallholders, take part in workshops and watch live demonstrations. For more information, visit our website.

Sleep settling sessions

Seeking better sleep for you and your little one? The City of Casey offers free sleep settling sessions.

Learn about sleep patterns, preventing sleep concerns, and effective solutions for your little ones. Choose from sessions for newborns to three months, four to 12 months or 18 months to toddler. Reserve your free spot now on our website.

Bunjil Place Daytime Music Theatre: Opera Gala

Presented by Promac Productions, the performance will showcase breathtaking opera hits to music theatre classics.

This spinetingling performance will feature a stellar cast of eight, including Australia’s most exciting tenor, Bradley Daley with String Quartet live on stage.

Friday 18 August, 10.30 am at Bunjil Place Theatre

Show: $22

Show and lunch: $44

Visit the Bunjil Place website for more information and to book your tickets.

Program partner: Lifestyle Communities.

Discounted cat desexing program

The City of Casey, National Desexing Network (NDN) and participating vet clinics have joined forces to offer eligible residents half price cat desexing and microchipping to help prevent unwanted cats. For more information, visit our website.

Casey kindergartens open afternoon

If your child is ready to start kindergarten in 2024, don’t miss this year’s kindergarten open afternoon from 2.00 pm to 3.30 pm on Thursday 3 August

Council operates 47 kindergartens across the municipality, which will be open for families to meet the current teaching team, experience our play-based program and learn more about sessional kindergarten. Bookings are not required.

To find your nearest City of Casey kindergarten, visit our website.

Tuck’s CTE severe: Inquiry

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Shane Tuck showed signs of decline from multiple head-knocks early in his storied 173game AFL career, a Coronial inquest has heard.

Tuck, 38, died with severe stage-three chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).

His affliction however couldn’t be definitively diagnosed during life, the hearing was told on 19 July.

A CT brain scan in 2009 produced a normal result.

And despite psychiatric treatment, Tuck was tormented by voice hallucinations, suicidal thoughts and depression.

He took his life at his parents’ Berwick home on 20 July 2020.

State Coroner John Cain is investigating the links between Tuck’s head injuries during football and boxing and CTE.

He will look at whether AFL and boxing’s approach to the risk of CTE is “reasonable and proportionate”.

Counsel Assisting the inquiry Gideon Boas told the inquiry on 19 July that the signs of Tuck’s decline were noticed by wife Katherine as early as 2006.

After head knocks in games for Richmond Football Club, he would retire to bed early, suffer headaches and not appear to be himself.

In 2010, he reported residual problems with concussions, dizziness and forgetfulness.

He was treated for depression, anxiety and heart palpitations, as he became disengaged from Katherine and their two children.

He started to believe he was ‘letting God down’ and having trouble sleeping.

After retiring from football in 2013, Tuck quit an apprenticeship and fought four times as a professional boxer.

In his first bout in 2015, he suffered a‘severe knock out’, lost consciousness and was admitted to The Alfred hospital’s emergency department with a brain hematoma.

Soon after he reported suicidal thoughts.

He was cleared to fight again after two‘normal’ MRI scans.

In 2018, he first reported hearing voices telling him not to eat, and he started drinking heavily.

After suicide attempts and auditory hallucinations, he was admitted to psychiatric units, including Casey Hospital in April 2020.

Tuck was prevented from leaving Casey due to hearing voices commanding him to kill himself. He was discharged in May after agreeing to get counselling and take medication.

A month before he died, Monash Health was contacted by Tuck’s mother about him “actively and loudly responding to voices”.

The Continuing Care Team assessed this as “part of the fluctuating course of Shane’s psychotic symptoms”, Mr Boas said.

At the time, Tuck was on a 26-week community treatment order while living with his parents and being treated by the Continuing Care Team.

There were plans for a neurology assessment and MRI brain scan.

Monash Health’s procedures have since been updated to insist that such clinical deteriorations as reported by Tuck’s mother are “escalated” to the consultant and/or team manager.

State Coroner John Cain said he was “sat-

isfied” that he did not require to investigate Monash Health any further.

Mr Boas cited CTE as an “increasing public focus” with high-profile cases such as Tuck and other late footballers Graeme‘Polly’ Farmer, Danny Frawley and Heather Anderson.

Studies suggest that at least 17 per cent of people suffering repetitive concussions or mild brain injuries develop CTE.

“The severity of the disorder appears to correlate with the length of time engaged in the sport and the number of traumatic injuries.”

CTE is associated with not just concussions but repetitive head trauma without symptoms, Mr Boas said.

Most concussions happened in community sport and were not reported.

The Australian Sports Commission estimated at least 100,000 sport related concussions in Australia each year.

By the age of 10, one in five children were concussed. And 25 per cent of those happened in sport.

At the inquest, US neurosurgeon Dr Robert Cantu said that the AFL was doing a “very fine job” in identifying and treating concussion. However, sub-concussive hits also contribute to CTE, he said.

“Hits that don’t cause symptomatic brain injury also can contribute to CTE and do contribute to CTE. And those are the majority of hits that somebody takes over their career.

“The number of contests you play would increase your risk for CTE cumulatively if you played enough years.”

In cross-examination, the AFL’s lawyer Mr Ihle posited that the game’s rule changes for “high contact infringements”, as well as in tribunal guidelines, were minimising head impacts.

Dr Cantu replied: “My interpretation to them was that they were trying to reduce concussion and the focus was not so much reducing the amount of head contact that was occurring.”

Local builder joins the worrying wave of collapses

By Matthew Sims

A South East construction company has become another casualty in the string of largescale builders recently entering liquidation.

Based in Upper Beaconsfield, Kleev Homes went into liquidation earlier this month with debts totalling about $3.3 million.

B&T Advisory director Travis Pullen said he was appointed as the liquidator on Wednesday 5 July by the resolution of the company’s sole shareholder.

“Kleev Homes ceased traded shortly prior to my appointment, with five uncompleted projects across Melbourne,“ he said.

“The focus on my initial investigations is ascertaining what assets may be available for

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the benefit of creditors, including outstanding employee entitlements.

“I am yet to complete my investigations regarding the reasons for the company’s failure, but as many will be aware, the residential construction industry has struggled with the pressures of dealing with rising costs and labour shortages, resulting in fixed price contracts becoming unprofitable.“

Mr Pullen said he had begun investigating the circumstances leading to the company’s liquidation ahead of a report due by Thursday 5 October.

“I am required to report further to creditors within three months of my appointment,“ he said.

“This report will provide further informa-

tion regarding my investigations into the failure of the Company, asset realisations, and whether a dividend will be paid to creditors.“

According to Kleev Homes’ now-defunct website, its former director James Kleverlaan has “worked in the building industry for 28 years and has a wealth of knowledge and experience with high end custom designed projects“.

“The team has undertaken approximately 180 projects ranging from bespoke renovations and additions, to units and large custom built residences,“ the website read.

Registered in October 2006, the company has received a number of awards, including Young Master Builder of the Year, MBAV Best Custom Home $800,000–$1,000,000 and HIA South East Victoria Best Custom Home

$500,000–$1,000,000 in 2011.

Mr Kleverlaan also received the award for Young Builder of the Year at the 2011 Master Builders Victoria Excellence in Construction Awards.

The most recent liquidation followed on from Hallam-based builder Rawdon Hill winding up on Thursday 25 May and Porter Davis going bust in late March.

Rawdon Hill had been promoting its “thriving” business just a day before going into liquidation.

Customers were plunged into turmoil when Porter Davis folded, leaving more than 1500 unfinished homes in Victoria.

Other builders such as Interface Constructions have also since collapsed.

Shane Tuck training with Richmond Football Club in Beaconsfield in 2013. 93128

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Q&A

Tell us a fun fact about yourself!

I once got stuck underwater in a submarine in Hawaii. Not for very long, but it felt like forever. I am not sure if this is very fun, but it is certainly interesting!

What do you love the most about your job? There are so many facets of my job that I love! As a Foundation teacher, I love that I get to be part of a child’s first learning experiences at school. These are such special, precious moments of learning and discovery and the sense of joy and wonder is so wonderful. I feel privileged to be part of it. In my role as a leader, I love supporting students and families across the F–2 area, as well as sharing my knowledge and supporting my colleagues to do the amazing work that they do each day.

If you were an animal, what animal would you be?

I think I’d either like to be a deer or a bear. Deers are so graceful and calm even when under pressure and they live in a herd. I’d also like to be a bear and live up in the mountains amongst that beautiful scenery. I love the way mamma bears look after their cubs and they seem very wise, steadfast and loyal. The idea of sleeping for long periods also sounds pretty great too!

What would your last meal be?

So many possibilities, but I think it would have to be my Mum’s lasagne.

What was your most memorable moment?

I have had so many precious, memorable moments in my life, but I think holding my twin daughters for the first time (at the same time) after they were born would have to top the list. A very memorable, incredible, life changing moment.

with

Casey Grammar Head of Early Years Vanessa Hodgkiss

What were you like as a kid?

I was a very keen learner, I remember feeling such awe and wonder about the world and wanting to learn about it all! I was gentle, eager to please and had a strong moral compass.

I was very shy but also had a real sense of fun and playfulness. If you put any kind of music on, I was the first one up and dancing… it all sounds a bit like me as an adult!

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

I would absolutely love to invite Simon Sinek, Michelle and Barrack Obama, Lin Manuel Miranda and my daughters.

What are you currently listening to/watching or reading?

I am currently doing lots of readings as part of my Educational Neuroscience course and rewatching Brooklyn 99. Very diverse choices!

Where is your happy place?

My happy place is definitely my home.

What three words would your friends use to describe you?

Dedicated, caring, dependable.

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

I would definitely not be in the realms of MasterChef, however I do make a pretty good spinach and fetta risotto.

Where is your dream holiday destination? Banff, Canada. I have been a few times and would go again in a heartbeat. It is truly the most beautiful place. If I had to choose a place I haven’t been to it would be Macchu Picchu.

THREE … ways to Nationalsupport

Tree Day

Planet Ark’s National Tree Day has helped plant about 26 million trees with the support of about five million volunteers. About 300,000 volunteers will be taking part in this year’s National Tree Day on Sunday 30 July.

1

Volunteer at a local event

Visit treeday.planetark.org to see local planting events in your area. Activities range from planting bush tucker gardens to building habitat for native wildlife, nature play and more. Tree planting supports life on Earth in a number of ways.

2

Donate to The Seedling Bank

The Seedling Bank supports volunteers with their planting efforts by providing financial support where seedlings are needed most. The program launched in 2019 with the goal of supplying native seedlings to schools and community groups around Australia.

3

Get involved at home

If you are unable to attend a local event, ways to support National Tree Day at home include planting your own trees at home, download activity sheets for your children or get out in nature and hug a tree or two!

Vanessa recently won an award for being one of the nation’s most influential educators.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Risky roads ranked

By Matthew Sims

The Berwick-Cranbourne Road/Clyde Road thoroughfare connecting Berwick and Clyde has been listed as the sixth most dangerous road by road users in RACV’s My Melbourne Road survey.

RACV’s inaugural My Melbourne Road survey received feedback from 5000 motorists, cyclists, pedestrians and public transport users on their safety concerns of Melbourne’s transport network.

The intersection of Wellington Road and Dorning Road in Narre Warren East was also named as the third most dangerous intersection due to its low-visibility bend, a 100 km/h speed limit and no turning lane into the Little Joey’s Early Learning childcare centre.

According to the respondents, the most dangerous road for Casey was Clyde Road/ Berwick-Cranbourne Road, from the Princes Freeway to Pattersons Road, and the intersection attracting the most safety concerns was the intersection of Princes Freeway and Clyde Road in Berwick.

RACV policy head JamesWilliams said there were a number of concerns with Clyde Road/ Berwick-Cranbourne Road.highlighted by respondents

“The top concerns highlighted with Clyde Road/Berwick-Cranbourne Road included overall road inadequacy to support high demand and growth, concerns regarding road quality and potholes and inconsistent road width, leading to last-minute merging,” he said.

A respondent said that where Clyde Road/ Berwick-Cranbourne Road meets Thompsons Road needed to have traffic lights introduced.

“A roundabout on such a busy road does not allow traffic to flow,” the respondent said.

Another respondent commented that the road surface along the road was “badly dam-

aged” and was“very dangerous” for road users.

“Despite several repairs, they can’t get it fixed,” the respondent said.

Berwick MP Brad Battin said the road had a number of issues which made it more dangerous for road users.

“The potholes and broken edges make the road more dangerous,” he said.

“The Labor Government has cut funds from Clyde Road to pour into their ‘Big Build’.”

A Department of Transport and Planning spokesperson said they welcomed all community feedback on road safety.

“We continually monitor our state’s transport network for potential improvements to ensure all road users can get where they need to go safely,” the spokesperson said.

“Road safety is a broad and complex issue that requires a strategic, multi-faceted and

coordinated approach.

“We’re continuing to build safer roads across the state and investigating safer technologies at intersections, making sure speed limits are appropriate and developing community education strategies to increase understanding of road safety.”

According to the Department of Transport and Planning, road and intersection improvements were considered based on various factors, including the extent to which a solution would improve safety or congestion, the number of road users travelling along the road and the need to cater for vulnerable road users.

Mr Williams said RACV would share the My Melbourne Road survey results with governments and advocate for improvements to the roads identified by participants.

“Of the 5000 safety concerns raised by participants, intersection safety was the area of greatest concern, followed by unsafe behaviours of other drivers, such as speeding and erratic driving,” he said.

“The survey results suggest that unsafe driving was heightened in congested traffic.

“These findings are a reminder that investment in road infrastructure is critical to improving safety and that motorists also need to drive safely and to the traffic conditions.”

Across Melbourne, Mount Alexander Road, which runs through Essendon, Moonee Ponds and Ascot Vale in the city’s North-West, received the most safety concerns in the survey.

The intersection of Mount Alexander Road and Keilor Road in Essendon topped the list of intersections with the most safety concern from respondents.

Mr Williams said all road users were responsible for making roads safer.

“Whether it’s driving at a safe speed, keeping a safe distance or not using a portable device while driving, we can all do our part to make our roads safer,” he said.

Woodman loses bid

From page 1

Justice Cameron Macaulay took Mr Woodman’s barrister Gerard Nash KC to task over that point.

“In 2022 you were complaining about the fruit of a public examination process, namely a draft report, when it now appears you maintain the public examination process should never have occurred,“ he said.

“So you complained about the fruit in 2022; now you say the plant should never have been planted.“

Mr Nash replied: “Perhaps, your honour, I didn’t realise the tree was rotten.“

In their ruling, the judges stated none of Mr Woodman’s six grounds had “any merit”.

This included Mr Woodman arguing he was denied procedural fairness by IBAC in its decision to publicly examine him. The judges noted Mr Woodman had made no application to IBAC for a private hearing, although the option was open to him.

Nor had he raised a“perceived specific unreasonable harm” to his reputation prior or during the IBAC hearing.

“There is no explanation for the applicant’s (prior) failure to raise the public examination point now sought to be ventilated...” the judges stated.

MrWoodman was represented by two counsel at IBAC and at least three solicitors who had corresponded with IBAC prior to the public hearing, the judges noted.

Counsel for MrWoodman declined to comment.

The intersection of Wellington Road and Dorning Road was named as third most dangerous intersection in the state in the survey. 348802 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Volunteer on the boundary

By Emily Chapman Laing

Berwick North Tornados Junior Fooball Club

Secretary Amara Sullivan has been named the Melbourne Football Club and South East Juniors Volunteer of the Month.

To thank her for her hard work and commitment, Amara was invited to Casey Round at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Sunday 23 July, where she took part in a once in a lifetime, pre-match experience from the boundary line.

Despite being a Hawks fan, Ms Sullivan was excited to win the VIP pass to the MCG.

“My girlfriend and I were on the boundary line while Melbourne were warming up,“ she said.

“We were down there just watching them, so that was nice.

“They did make me feel really special.“

Ms Sullivan has been with the Berwick North Junior Fooball Club for five years, after her son began playing in the club’s Under 8’s team.

“I joined the committee then, and the secretary at the time had been there for about ten years, her kids had finished playing, so I put my hand up,“ Ms Sullivan said.

Ms Sullivan has been the club Secretary now for three years, and her role is varied.

“I do everything from sorting stuff on the back end with the teams and player, to fundraising and social events as well,“ she said.

“I pretty much do everything.“

Being a small club makes her job a“bit easi-

er“, but Ms Sullivan said it also makes it harder to find volunteers.

“Every Sunday you’re down at the ground setting up and then you’re packing up,“ she said.

“After the footy season finishes you’re always thinking about next year, about coaches and getting players coming in to have enough teams.

“It’s very busy.“

For the past two years, the club has been dealing with a broken scoreboard, and Ms Sullivan has been heading fundraising efforts.

“We do fundraising or ask the council, you know, trying to get money for grants to pay for these things,“ she said.

“But really it’s just all about the kids, that’s why we all do it.“

Ms Sullivan has two children playing for the club, so her priority is keeping the club running so her kids have a place to engage in a sport they find fun.

“Even though our teams don’t win every week, the kids are out there having fun,“ she said.

“All they want to do is kick the footy.

“At our club we pride ourselves on the fact that every kid gets to play, it doesn’t matter on their ability, every kid gets out there.“

Members of the Melbourne Football Club will be joining the Berwick North teams on Thursday followed by the club’s trivia night at the Old Cheese Factory on Saturday 29 July.

THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN

Thumbs down

To the Casey Council for cancelling the courtesy bus for Senior Citizens Club members to get to club meeting days.

Thumbs down

To Berwick Newsagency charging EFT Fee on Debit Card.

Thumbs down

Huge thumbs down to council approving the rezone to HP Hill!

Thumbs up

For starting drainage works in Ackland Park in Narre Warren North. Hopefully it will be usable all year round.

Lotto luck strikes Sth East

Melbourne’s South East ranks as the ‘luckiest’ lotto region in Australia, with the most division-one wins in the past financial year.

According to The Lott and Lotterywest data, the region sold 31 division-one winning tickets in 2022-’23, reaping more than $90 million.

This included a $50 million Oz Lotto winner sold at Hampton Park Lotto.

Springvale South/DingleyVillage (3 winners) and Endeavour Hills (3) were equal top postcodes in the nation.

Southvale Newsagency in Springvale South and Endeavour Lotto & News each sold three division one winning tickets worth more than $10 million collectively.

Victoria finished the financial year retaining the title of the state with the most division one wins: 137 worth more than $409 million in prize money.

The Lott spokesperson Matt Hart said he was keen to see if last financial year’s lottery hotspots continued their good fortune in FY24.

“Some players tell us they deliberately pick outlets that have recently sold a major lottery prize in the hope of continuing the winning streak, while other players choose different outlets, believing lightning won’t strike twice.”

Thumbs down

Still no mobile phone service in Clyde North.

Thumbs down

To drivers who travel at 90kmh in the 100kmh and 80kmh zones on the freeway, blocking other drivers in one section and speeding through others.

Thumbs down

ToVicRoads for not fixing the South Gippsland Highway atTooradin going out of town, down to one lane for three months.

Thumbs down

The rotten tip decision by the council which has no elected members so clearly do not represent the rate payers at all.

Thumbs up

To the Lynbrook community centre they have some really great activities and programs but unfortunately a lot of people don’t know about all the great things they do including a free food pantry and book exchange.

Thumbs down

To the state of the roads.

Thumbs down

To the ignorant drivers that run red lights, don’t indicate, turn right from the left hand lane, register their homes as churches to get tax breaks and drive upmarket cars valued over $100,000 that most CEO’s don’t even drive.

Thumbs down

To all the rude and impatient drivers during this creative time regarding the roadworks. You know its happening, allow extra time and deal with it!

Thumbs down

To people parking in the Disability Parking Spaces without a permit. Having a big car is no excuse.

AmaraSullivanattheMCG.

Picture:MELBOURNEFOOTBALLCLUB

Casey ER under pressure

By Corey Everitt

Local complaints of hours-long wait times, overcrowding and staff stretched thin have surfaced about Casey Hospital’s Emergency Room as local MP Jason Wood starts a petition calling for its planned upgrade to begin.

MrWood, the Federal Member for La Trobe, published an online petition onWednesday 12 June calling on the State Government to begin construction on the new emergency department at Casey Hospital.

The exact plan is for another emergency department dedicated to child patients and their families, but not exclusively as it will expand emergency cubicles at Casey Hospital from 58 to 130 and increase the annual presentations by 52,000.

The funding for this project is shared with a similar project with Werribee Mercy Hospital, a total of $236 million.

A spokesperson for the State Department of Health said in May that construction would begin in 2024 for an estimated completion date of 2026.

The 2023-24 State Budget listed the project, includingWerribee Mercy Hospital, to be completed at an estimated date of early 2027.

Regardless of the exact date, neither is quick enough for Jason Wood nor for some local residents.

Jackie and Steve Marsland are Berwick locals, who have had many experiences with the ER of Casey Hospital due to Jackie’s severe asthma.

They have spent countless hours in the waiting room where they claim it is regularly overcrowded to the point that they “don’t feel comfortable there, they are so overworked”.

“We need an expansion desperately, it’s just not good,” Jackie said. “It’s not the doctors’ fault, it’s not the nurses’ fault; they are just overwhelmed.”

They have many experiences of waiting for hours to be seen, sometimes in the middle of the night, as Jackie labors with breathing from an asthma attack or an allergic reaction.

“There is a sign in the ER which gives the general wait time and I’ve seen it showing up to nine hours,” Steve said.

“One time my son’s appendix burst and I took him to the ER in the middle of the night where there were only two others in the waiting room and we still had to wait for six hours.”

Jackie added: “It’s so out of control, one time we were waiting for hours and there was a mother with a crying baby trying to calm them down in her arms and after a while the poor woman just passed out and collapsed, the baby fell, everyone was beside themselves.”

One time Steve was with Jackie in the ER because she was having trouble swallowing from what she suspected was an allergic reaction.

After a long wait, a nurse looked at her and told her tonsils are very large, Jackie informed the nurse she didn’t have any tonsils, rather that was just how swollen her throat was.

Jason Wood himself has experienced the traffic at Casey’s ER back in 2018.

“When I took my daughter to the Casey Hospital for an allergic reaction years ago, it was the middle of the day on Friday or Saturday and I was shocked to see a line out the door for the ER,” he said.

“From there I contacted the Health Minister Greg Hunt and I said ‘you aren’t going to be-

lieve how packed it is here’.”

This was before the Covid pandemic, Jackie’s own experience goes back before the pandemic too, she even recalls hearing a nurse at Casey Hosipital say in early 2019: ‘God help us if we have a pandemic’.

While the long wait times pack out the ER, overcrowding is a regular occurrence they claim.

“My husband says it’s like a warzone, so many people crammed in the ER,” Jackie said.

“When we had to wait one time, the whole ER was full of people with the flu, when we went home we both got the flu and in my condition that made me sick for weeks.”

In part, this is caused by the new triage practices that Hospitals took on since covid, where patients are assessed at the desk, but for Jackie since coming out of the worst of covid this has added an invasive element to ER.

“They don’t even see you anymore, before covid you go into triage, you tell them what is happening, they take you out of the waiting room to check you, do tests and determine if you need to be seen by a doctor now or later,” Jackie said.

“Since covid you go to ER, which is crowded, and they do all of it through a glass panel right there in the room, where they ask very personal questions in front of everyone.

“I once had to lift my top all the up for them, expose myself in the ER with several men sitting right next to me, it’s awful.”

Jackie and Steve do not blame health work-

ers for the situation, they can only do so much within the capacity they are given out of the unprecedented impact of the covid pandemic.

They want to see the new emergency department begin as soon as possible to mend the situation and relieve the burden on health workers, 2026-2027 is not soon enough.

“They are running out of money for things and are moving slowly, but you can’t put a hold on the health system,” Steve said.

“With the size that Casey is, it’s just not good enough.

“You look into the amount of people expected to move in, it’s, nah, just too late.”

Jason Wood hopes to push both the State and Federal Governments to get it started now.

“It’s been taking years and it hasn’t even started, I’ve spoken with a lot of the doctors and nurses there and the frustration directly felt,” he said

“Working with Monash Health is great, it’s a problem with the upper level and it’s just got to get started.”

“It was a joint agreement between State and Federal Governments, it was the best way to do it, but they’re just delaying it.”

Federal Minister for Health and Aged Care, Mark Butler, said the Federal Government’s building of clinics would take pressure off hospitals.

“There is no higher priority in health for the Albanese Government than taking pressure off hospitals by rebuilding general practice,“ he said.

“After nine long years of cuts and neglect by the former government, the Albanese Government is making Medicare stronger for all Australians.

“Too many people are having to end up in a hospital emergency department because they can’t get the care they need in the community when and where they need it.

“That’s why the Government is establishing 58 Medicare Urgent Care Clinics across the country to take pressure off hospitals, they will be open extended hours, seven days a week and will be fully bulk billed.

“The Australian Government is committed to strengthening Medicare and reducing the pressure on our hospitals so they can provide the quality care our people deserve.“

A spokesperson for the State Government rejected Jason Wood’s petition.

“We won’t be lectured how to deliver healthcare by a man who served under the Abbott Government which delivered the biggest cut to public health in Australia’s history,“they said.

“Jason Wood’s claims that we are delaying the expansion of the Casey Hospital are completely false. Planning is underway and construction is scheduled to begin next year.“

“The Andrews Labor Government is delivering Melbourne’s south-east the healthcare they deserve - this $236 million project for bigger emergency departments at Casey andWerribee Mercy Hospital builds on the $135 million expansion of Casey Hospital which was completed in 2020.“

Regional Assessment Service provider appointed

The State Government has appointed mecwacare to deliver the Regional Assessment Service (RAS) in Casey from Friday 1 September.

In response to Federal Government reforms, Casey Council undertook a detailed review of its Aged and Disability Services before endorsing a decision on 14 December 2021 to transition out of direct delivery of these services, with the exception of meals, community transport and volunteer transport services.

Casey Council’s home and community care services moved to new providers in 2022, one of which was mecwacare, which

took over delivery of in-home services consisting of personal care, domestic assistance, respite care, shopping assistance, social support, home maintenance and modifications to residents living in the northern suburbs of Casey, with the appointment of mecwacare to deliver the RAS the final step in the transition process.

Casey Council administrators chair Noelene Duff PSM said the council is looking forward to working with mecwacare to ensure a smooth transition for Casey residents.

“Council is now focused on delivery of the actions in the Casey Living and Ageing Well Action Plan, which was endorsed in March

and sets out how council will help make Casey a supportive environment where people of all ages can live and age well,“ she said.

“We will continue to deliver meals, community transport and volunteer transport services through our dedicated volunteer workforce.

“Our volunteers have always delivered these services, and they all play a very important role in helping us support the wellbeing and independence of our residents.“

mecwacare chief executive Michele Lewis said they were proud of the positive feedback they have received from Casey residents and their family.

“We are delighted by theVictorian Department of Health’s decision to place their trust in the organisation to deliver the Regional Assessment Service in addition to the vital home care services we already provide to the local community,“ she said.

“mecwacare has a long-standing record of partnering with and supporting older people and people living with disabilities in the Casey community.

“I’m delighted to have the opportunity to expand on our relationships with, and support for, the Casey community.“

Steve and Jackie Marsland with Member for La Trobe Jason Wood. 347747

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Nuttelex to settle

The City of Casey welcomed renowned Australian company Nuttelex’s second state-of-theart manufacturing facility at Rangebank Business Park in Cranbourne West on Wednesday 19 July.

The establishment of the new facility is expected to benefit the community and make a positive impact on Casey’s economy through the creation of 40 new jobs and by showcasing Casey as a destination of choice for potential investors.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Nuttelex to Casey’s vibrant business community,” said City of Casey CEO Glenn Patterson.

“This investment creates new job opportunities closer to home for our community and signifies Casey’s commitment to fostering economic growth and attracting businesses to the municipality.“

The development was facilitated through Council’s Choose Casey Concierge Service, which helps stakeholders navigate various Council processes and requirements with ease and efficiency.

With the support of an Economic Development Partner, customers experience a streamlined investment journey with increased communication and dedicated support.

“We are excited to be setting up our second state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Cranbourne West, creating new employment opportunities for the local community and making a lasting positive impact on the Casey community,“ John Rishworth, Nuttelex Director of Sales, Marketing, and Innovations said.

“On behalf of the team at Nuttelex, we would like to thank Casey for their support in facilitating the Nuttelex development at Rangebank Business Park.

“Welookforwardtocontinuingtoworkwith Council, leveraging our collective strengths to unlock new opportunities, foster sustainable growth, and enhance the overall economic

landscape of Casey.“

Steven Murphy, CEO of Perfection Private and landowner of the site, also thanked Council for the support provided to bring Nuttelex’s new high-tech facility to the Rangebank Business Park.

“Casey has demonstrated its commitment to creating new employment in the local government area by being proactive and practical, with the economic development and planning teams assisting through every

Crash kills teen driver

A 17-year-old Lynbrook driver has died following a collision with a truck in Devon Meadows on Thursday 20 July.

Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives are investigating the circumstances surrounding the fatal collision.

Emergency services were called to the South Gippsland Highway, near Devon Road, following reports of a collision between a truck and car about 9.50pm.

Investigators believe the truck, which was towing a trailer, was performing a right-hand turn at the time of the collision.

The male driver of the truck was taken to hospital for treatment and is expected to be spoken to by police.

South Gippsland Highway was closed while MCIU detectives processed the scene.

Detectives are appealing for anyone who may have witnessed the collision or been in the vicinity of the truck with trailer at the time to come forward. It is believed there were a couple of cars that drove past and may be able to assist with the investigation.

stage,“ he added.

Nuttelex’s move to Casey aligns with the council’s goal to diversify the local economy and create jobs through the attraction of new industry sectors.

Through its Choose Casey campaign, the City of Casey said will actively target businesses within five Priority Industry Sectors for growth and will support their expansion, relocation and growth in Casey.

A 17-year-old Lynbrook driver died at the scene. Picture: SUPPLIED

Chris Telley, Senior Development Manager at Vaughan Constructions; Steven Murphy, Chief Executive Officer at Perfection Private; Geoff Long, Chief Executive Officer at Nuttelex; and Glenn Patterson, City of Casey CEO at the ground-breaking ceremony at Rangebank Business Park in Cranbourne West on Wednesday.

Picture: SUPPLIED

A new life for bonsais

By Emily Chapman Laing

NarreWarren creative jack-of-all-trades and KB Crystal Design owner Katherine Bennett has taken her artistic skills to a new level with intricately crafted crystal trees.

Step into Katherine’s home creative studio and you will find filtered sunlight, pieces of driftwood, twisted branches, lacquered bonsai trees and most importantly, Katherine’s 16-year-old dog Tammy.

Craft tubs, crystals and art supplies cover the walls, and on the table sit glistening crystal trees in shades of orange, purple, pink and forest green.

Not only are the trees gorgeous, they allow Katherine to re-purpose dead bonsai trees, which she sources from local nurseries.

Some of the bonsai trees Katherine uses are decades old.

“I have some that are 40-50 years old, that died at a bonsai nursery,“ she said.

“So I go in there and I grab the dead tree and pay for the pot.

“They’re 50 years old, they’ve brought them up for 50 years and then all of a sudden they die, so I reboot them.“

Katherine’s biggest masterpiece, which she made for herself, is a large conifer-like tree, which took her an astounding 200 hours to craft.

“I just love art,“ she said.

The trees sit in thrifted or naturally created bowls, some brass, some wood, others ceramic, but all chosen to be harmonious partners of specific crystal trees.

The “ground cover“ comes from volcanic scoria rocks, fossicked from quarries in Mortlake, which Katherine crushes to look like grass or gravel.

More than just aesthetically pleasing, some of Katherine’s crystal trees have become treasures imbued with memories and love.

“I’ve had people use them for memory

KatherineBennettholdsoneofheramethystcrystalbonsaitrees. 348739 Picture:STEWARTCHAMBERS

of their cat, dog or mum, where I drill a hole through the stump of the tree and I put the ashes in there,“ Katherine said.

“I call it the soul tree.

“It can go with you everywhere.“

Nine years ago, Katherine got a subclavian blood clot which left her out of work, so she decided to spend her time on a new creative endeavour.

“One day I looked at crystal trees and I thought, I reckon I could do better than that,“ Katherine said.

“So I taught myself, and I’ve been doing it ever since.“

Five years later, Katherine started KB Crystal Design.

“I wanted to be good at it before I put any sort of price on them,“ she said.

Teaching herself how to create the labyrinthine crystal trees came down to a lot of “trial and error“.

“I needed the leaves to look real,“ Katherine said.

“If you glue them on, it just doesn’t look real.

“So through trial and error I bunched them up and tied everything in, every bit- every bead is tied in with copper wire.“

Katherine soon began making trees laced with all different kinds of high-quality gemstones, from tourmaline, to onyx, rose quartz and citrine.

“The beads have meaning, the colours have meaning, the crystals have meaning and so the stones I choose are the best of the best,“ Katherine said.

“I don’t buy fake or dyed, I source my crystals from India, and if I even get a hint that it’s dyed I just say no.“

Not only does Katherine create her own trees, she teaches others how to craft their own.

“I teach people how to appreciate Mother Nature,“ she said.

“I love to teach because this is expensive and people can’t always afford to buy something that costs $1000.

“I thought if I teach people, that’s a packet of

cigarettes per session, and they get all of their stones, all the bits and pieces.“

Katherine’s ten week course gives her clients the chance to deep dive into the world of crystal tree making and emerge with their very own handcrafted design.

“They are private lessons and I’m sitting right next to them if they have any questions,“ she said.

Katherine also teaches jewellery making, macrame and felting to pupils “very young to very old“.

“Everyone has an artist inside,“ she said.

Alongside her skills in crafting crystal trees, Katherine also makes copper dog collars, to help dogs suffering from arthritis.

Copper jewellery has been used to reduce the pain and swelling associated with arthritis, as the skin absorbs tiny particles of copper, helping regrow lost joint cartilage.

KB Copper Collars started at Katherine’s kitchen table having breakfast, where she watched her 16 year old pup Princess struggling with stiff joints, body odour and allergies.

Katherine herself was wearing a copper bracelet for her own arthritis, and figured Princess could benefit from the same solution.

After a short stint wearing copper, Katherine noticed a huge improvement in Princess’s coat, agility and odour.

Tammy also dons a shiny copper collar as she greets Katherine’s clients at the door.

“She wears copper for her arthritis and I’ve had 98 per cent success with that,“ she said.

KB Copper Collars are available online and have received many overwhelmingly positive testimonials from relieved dog owners.

KB Crystal Designs can be found on Facebook, where Katherine posts her remarkable creations as well as information for those interested in joining her classes.

Katherine’s artistic dexterity is truly mindboggling, and the world is more beautiful for it.

Searching for stolen car

Police have released an image of a Hyundai Kona similar to a distinctive lime-green vehicle allegedly stolen from a carpark in Narre Warren on Friday 21 July.

Police said a 79-year-old woman was swimming at a leisure centre at Westfield Fountain Gate between 5.30 pm and 7.30pm, during which the offender or offenders entered the changerooms of the swimming complex and made off with the victim’s car keys and phone.

Two Shelties, 5-year-old Lucy and 2-yearold Darcy, were left in the vehicle.

A member of the public located the dogs on the street nearby and looked after them overnight on Friday 21 July until they could be collected by a ranger on Saturday 22 July.

Police contacted The Lost Dog’s Home in Cranbourne West and were advised the pups were there safe and sound.

Investigators are still searching for the stolen car with registration 1OH 3WF.

To report any information, contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.

Thewomen’sgroupmeetseveryWednesday. Picture:SUPPLIED

Celebrating two years

Narre Warren women are encouraged to unite to celebrate the second anniversary of the Oakgrove Community Centre’s women’s group.

Running from 10.30am to 1pm on Wednesday 2 August, the event will include a guest speaker, testimonials from participants and fun and interactive programs with refreshments.

Oakgrove Community Centre project co-ordinator Anu Ravindernath said the group has continued to grow each and every month.

“The group was founded with a vision to create a safe and nurturing space where women could come together, share their experience, and support each other in their personal and professional journeys,“ she said.

“Over the past two years, this vision has blossomed into a vibrant community that has touched the lives of countless women.“

Ms Ravindernath said the group was also focused on giving back to the community.

“The women’s group has not limited its efforts to its members alone,“ she said.

“We have undertaken several community outreach programs, supporting women in need, advocating for their rights, and providing pathways.“

The women’s group meets every Wednesday from 10am to noon, with a $6 annual fee.

Pride of place for the arts

At St Francis Xavier College, performing arts have always held a place of pride.

Over the years, the school’s curriculum, extending from Years 7 through to Year 12, has been teeming with a wealth of performances that bear witness to the exceptional abilities of our students and the dedication of our staff.

The 2023 academic year has been no different. The sheer array of events that the Performing Arts department has produced to date is a testament to the zeal and commitment of the teachers and students.

From the annual College Musical, The Wizard of Oz, that brought together diverse talents in a harmonious celebration of creativity, to the instrumental night that gave the students a platform to showcase their melodic skills, the performances have been nothing short of inspirational.

Year 7 music students also had their share of the limelight at the end of Term 2. They successfully staged a performance for parents and peers which demonstrated their skills on an instrument they started to learn at the beginning of the year. These younger members of the community have shown that they are ready to continue the tradition of excellence in the performing arts at St Francis Xavier College. We look forward to the junior school play, The History of Dating in Term 4.

Moreover, the vibrant senior dance showcase allowed students to express their unique dance styles, while the VCE Drama and Theatre Studies performances provide them with a platform to explore and present intricate

How do I know?

This is a common question parents ask of themselves in the time prior to selecting a school to which to send their child.

For many years for many parents’, it was largely irrelevant, unless the choice centred on whether to send their child to a government or non-government school. Most parents simply sent their children to the local government school and the majority still do.

primary school education than the basic subjects - a comprehensive curriculum that enables children to explore their wider interests and talents is vital. Then there is student wellbeing and citizenship, crucial in anybody’s language.

We live in an increasingly globalised world, and it should surprise no one that a primary school curriculum should be global in its breadth.

narratives. The VCE Top Class performance provided an opportunity for Year 8 and 9 performing arts students to see the best of senior students and gain an understanding of the rigours of the senior performance syllabus.

Each of these events not only enriched the school community but also added to the cultural fabric of the surrounding community. The immense talent and creativity on display fills them with pride and anticipation for what the future holds. They look forward to future performances that will continue to inspire and nurture the artistic talents of students at St Francis Xavier College.

Since the early 1990s, however, parent choice in selecting a government school for their children has become increasingly popular. This is changing somewhat in recent times with much stricter guidelines applying to the enrolment of children in non-neighbourhood government schools. This is to ensure that schools do not overreach on their capacity.

NAPLAN tests are a consideration in evaluating a school. Our school takes these tests seriously and on no account undervalue the importance of competency in the basic subjects.

Nonetheless, there is much more to

So, getting back to the matter of knowing which school best suits your child, my suggestion is to start with your child - their personality, their interests their strengths and their frailties. You know them best.

Then put each school you visit to the test.

In saying that, my invitation to put us to your test is on the table. We still take enrolments from outside our local enrolment zone.

Henry Grossek, Principal, Berwick Lodge Primary School

SCHOOL OF EXCELLENCE

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

• Lead School - Respectful Relationships

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

• Radio Program & Film Making

• Before & After School Care Programs Available

• Out of Zone Enrolments Welcome

9709 6700 Berwick.lodge.ps@education.vic.gov.au www.berwicklodgeps.vic.edu.au

12611352-AV25-23

Henry Grossek, Berwick Lodge Primary School principal.

The sheer array of events that the Performing Arts department has produced to date is a testament to the zeal and commitment of the teachers and students.

Fleetwood PS stands tall

At Fleetwood Primary School, we take immense pride in fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment, where parents, students, and the community come together dedicated to learning, growth, and respect. With a strong focus on embracing diversity, encouraging parental contributions, and nurturing the values of safety, responsibility, and respect, Fleetwood Primary School stands tall in our community.

Celebrating diversity

We embrace and celebrate the uniqueness of every child. Our students come from diverse cultural backgrounds, enriching the learning experience and cultivating a sense of accep-

tance and appreciation for different perspectives. Diversity is not merely acknowledged but cherished as an invaluable asset to the educational journey. By promoting cultural exchange and understanding, we prepare our students to thrive in an ever-changing global landscape.

Parents, school, and community

At Fleetwood Primary School, we understand the pivotal role parents play in a child’s education. We believe that parental involvement is integral to a student’s academic success and overall well-being. We warmly welcome parent contributions, whether it be volunteering

in classrooms, participating in school events, or sharing valuable expertise with our young learners. The strong bond between parents, the school, and the community ensures a holistic approach to education, with the collective goal of nurturing responsible, respectful, and safe individuals.

Nurturing values

Safety is our paramount concern at Fleetwood Primary School. We maintain a secure and supportive environment where children feel protected and free to explore their potential. We instil a sense of responsibility in our students, encouraging them to take ownership of

their actions and choices. Respect forms the foundation of our school’s ethos. Our students are taught to value not only their peers but also the world around them. Empathy and compassion are embedded in the curriculum, fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and heard.

At Fleetwood Primary School, we believe that every child has the potential to shine, and we are dedicated to nurturing that brilliance through our inclusive and diverse environment. We warmly welcome new enquiries from parents and guardians who seek an exceptional educational experience for their children.

Fleetwood Primary school has a nurturing and inclusive environment.

WHAT’S ON

Weekly badminton

Badminton for ladies or retired.

All welcome.

· Mondays 7pm-9pm and Wednesdays 12pm2.30pm at Hallam Badminton Club, Frawley Road Recreation Reserve; $5.

Women’s Wellbeing Group 2nd anniversary

On Wednesday 2 August at 10.30am to 1.00 pm, the Women’s Wellbeing Group will gather at Oakgrove Community Centre at 89-101 Oakgrove Drive, Narre Warren South to celebrate two incredible years of friendships and achievements of the women’s group from all walks of life.

The Women’s Group was founded with a vision to create a safe and nurturing space where women could come together, share their experience, and support each other in their personal and professional journeys.

The event will feature a guest speaker, testimonials form participants, and fun and interactive programs with refreshments served.

· RSVP by Monday 31 July via office@oakgrovecc.org.au or call the office between 9am to 3pm Monday to Friday 9704 2781.

Casey Philharmonic Orchestra: Villains & Superheroes

Casey Philharmonic Orchestra is currently preparing a selection of big screen movie themes from Marvel, DC and more for their upcoming concert, ‘Villains and Superheroes’ this month. In keeping with the orchestra’s approach to making orchestral music relatable and engaging for everyone, audience members are encouraged to join in the fun and come dressed as their favourite hero or villain, with prizes, giveaways and a themed photo zone on offer at the event.

A finalist at this year’s Casey Community Awards, Casey Philharmonic Orchestra (CPO) facilitates unique artistic opportunities in Melbourne’s outer south-east, and prides itself on performing orchestral music of the highest calibre for the enjoyment of audiences and musicians alike.

“We’ve undertaken an ambitious program of events in recent years, and have consistently attracted sizeable, enthusiastic audiences”, said Anthony Ware, President of CPO.

“The Bunjil Place performance of our 2022 ‘Star Wars Extravaganza’ tour was a complete sell out at this venue, a remarkable achievement for a community orchestra, so I would certainly recommend you purchase your tickets early for ‘Villains and Superheroes’.”

CPO’s ‘Villains and Superheroes’ will descend upon the Bunjil Place theatre, Patrick Northeast Drive, Narre Warren on Sunday, 30 July with the show commencing at 2.30pm.

· Tickets are available at www.cpo.org.au/ events and the latest event news can be found on CPO’s Facebook and Instagram pages.

National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders Children’s Day Event

Join the Casey Aboriginal Gathering Place at Myuna Farm for an afternoon full of fun.

There will be lots of activities for all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander kids to enjoy, including cultural games, face painting, the Casey 360 bus, food and entertainment!

· Myuna Farm, 182 Kidds Road, Doveton on Friday 4 August, 4pm-6:30pm.

Nesian Fest 2.0

Join City of Casey as they support our young lo-

NEWS

cal Maori and Pasifika artists in the south east. Hear the stories of these young Polynesian creatives as they express themselves through spoken word, rap, music and dance.

Maui’s snack bar will be in the plaza serving up tasty Polynesian food and drinks all night.

· Bunjil Place Studio, Friday 28 July, 7.00 pm –10.00 pm.

Berwick Neighbourhood Centre Play and Grow and Child care Open Day

Come along to find out more about the centre’s 3 year old Play and Grow and Childcare sessions for 2024.

Speak to educators, explore the surroundings and make a booking for your child.

If you are looking for more time beyond the council single 5 hour session for 3 year olds come and join Berwick Neighbourhood Centre in 2024.

CCS funding is available for all sessions.

For further details call 9769 1970 or email childrenservices@berwicknc.com.au

· 112 High Street, Berwick, on 29 July, 10am11.30am

Berwick Activities Club

As the club heads into its 31st year it wishes to welcome new members to join in the many

activities on offer such as New Vogue Dancing, which will see you moving in no time.

Social Wednesdays where you can join in Carpet Bowls, cards, Scrabble and Table Tennis. Take the opportunity to make new friends and enjoy yourself.

Membership is only 10 dollars with a $5 weekly attendance fee which includes morning tea.

· For more information phone David on 0433566456 or Bruce 0447554475

Conversational English

Improve your confidence in reading, writing, and speaking English in this small friendly class each Tuesday afternoon during school terms. $5 per term (10 weeks).

· Balla Balla Community Centre, Selandra Blvd, Clyde North on Tuesdays, 12:30pm-2:30pm

Queen: Bohemian Rhapsody

Without a doubt, Queen is amongst the greatest rock bands of the twentieth century and Freddie Mercury is hailed by many as the most charismatic and flamboyant performer in contemporary rock.

Now, fresh off the heels of the successful Bohemian Rhapsody movie, comes an all new Queen tribute show from well-known Australian Freddie Mercury impersonator Thomas Crane.

Thomas, with his hot band Bohemian Rhapsody, bring back to life the visual excitement, sound and stage energy as witnessed at a Queen concert.

See all your favourite Queen hits like We Will Rock You, Crazy Little Thing Called Love, We Are The Champions, Radio Ga Ga, A Kind of Magic, I Want To Break Free, Another One Bites the Dust and of course Bohemian Rhapsody. Come and celebrate the 50th Anniversary of supergroup Queen at Bunjil Place Theatre.

· Bunjil Place, 2 Patrick Northeast Drive, Narre Warren on Friday 28 July, 8pm-10:20pm.

Pilates

Do you want to improve your posture, increase your core strength, increase your energy, improve your flexibility and mobility and decrease stress?

Pilates focuses on increasing core strength and tone of abdominal muscles, lower back, hips and buttocks.

Classes held Tuesday afternoons and Wednesday evenings.

$90 per term (10 weeks).

· Hall 2, Balla Balla Community Centre, Selandra Blvd, Clyde North on Tuesdays 1pm2pm and Wednesdays 7:30pm-8:30pm

Christmas in July

The Christmas in July Night Market is back for 2023!

Head to Akoonah Park on Friday July 28 to enjoy a magical Christmas-themed night market experience.

Try some delicious food and drinks, browse a huge range of exciting stalls, listen to some live music, and take in the unique local market atmosphere.

· Akoonah Park, 2 Cardinia Street, Berwick on Friday 28 July, 4pm-9pm.

Beginners Yoga

Balla Balla holds a beginners yoga class that incorporates gentle exercise, breath control and meditation.

The health benefits of regular yoga practice may include lowering blood pressure, improved posture and circulation, and a sense of wellbeing. Classes available on Thursday afternoons and

Thursday evenings.

$85 per term (10 weeks).

· Hall 1, Balla Balla Community Centre, Selandra Blvd, Clyde North on Thursdays, 5:30pm-6:45pm and 7pm-8:15pm.

Get Your Art On

Balla Balla’s new Children’s Art program will develop your child’s confidence and enhance their creative ability in producing their own unique art work.

Children’s Art will explore colour theory, mixed media, simple printing techniques, watercolour painting and so much more.

Classes held after school on Monday afternoons commencing 24th July.

$96 per term (8 weeks).

· Hall 2, Balla Balla Community Centre, Selandra Blvd,Clyde North on Mondays,4:30pm5:45pm

Computers for the Home & Workplace

A basic computer course for Beginners and Seniors, which will help you understand the basics of using Microsoft Windows, understanding the Cloud, and browsing the internet safely. Learn about sending & receiving emails, creating and using documents and spreadsheets, interacting with social media, downloading photos, and shopping online within a comfortable, nurturing environment with like-minded learners. Commencing 21st July on Fridays for 8 weeks. $25 for the 8 weeks.

· The Lounge, Balla Balla Community Centre, Selandra Blvd, Clyde North on Fridays, 10am12:30pm

CRANBOURNE U3A

Classes are back in full swing for Term 3 with some exciting new classes about to commence. U3A has a lovely craft called “quilling“ where members make beautiful cards and notelets using rolled paper.

They also have Scrabble, playing cards and Tai Chi groups about to begin.

Tutors available to teach art using various mediums.

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

Chess, line dancing and table tennis are operating too.

The Open Singing group has been happily running this year and always welcomes new voices. If you would like to play the Ukelele, the group are playing beautiful music on Monday mornings from 10am. There is also have an Italian class. If you would like to tutor a class, contact U3A with details of your talents, new opportunities are welcome.

· For more information visit: wwwu3acranbourne.org.au or contact Helen on 0423 623 337.

Zumba

Do you want to burn calories and blast away fat? Do you want to de-stress, improve your co-ordination, boost your heart health and meet others wanting to improve their fitness levels? Zumba is aimed at all ages and fitness levels. Classes held Tuesday evenings. $80 per term (10 weeks).

· Hall 1, Balla Balla Community Centre, Selandra Blvd, Clyde North on Tuesdays 6:30pm7:15pm

Path to business success

Nominations are now open for the Greater Dandenong Chamber of Commerce’s 2023 South East Business Awards, held annually to celebrate business excellence in the south east region of Melbourne.

Hurry, as submissions close on 15th August.

The South East Business Awards offer more than just recognition. The program offers entrants a free health check on their business.

The chamber has people to help you with your application if needed.

The small investment of time is about charting a path to success, securing long-term financial stability for your family and team, and establishing a prominent position in the competitive market.

Successful nominees will also gain invaluable exposure at the highly anticipated SE Business Conference, providing a platform for networking and collaboration with other businesses in the region.

Previous award winners, like iEnergi, described their exhilarating experience, stating, “The process gave us a great check-in on each aspect of our business.”

Their journey to success was not merely about winning an award but also about evaluating and enhancing every facet of their business.

Mark and Andrew from Chilltech shared, “So many connections we hadn’t heard from congratulated us when we shared on LinkedIn

- we were pretty amazed at how many messages we got!”

This achievement not only expanded their network but also solidified their reputation as an employer of choice, attracting exceptional talent.

Seize this opportunity to invest in your business’s future and steer it towards success by participating in the South East Business 2023 Awards.

We eagerly await celebrating your achievements and contributions.

Act now and nominate your business for a chance to be recognised and valued in the South East business community at www.greaterdandenongchamber.com.au/awards.

Imagine the honor of being celebrated as a winner at the exquisite gala dinner in October, an unforgettable night to cherish.

ASM Chilltech, winners of the 2022 Overall Business Award sponsored by NAB.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Landfill gets council tick

By Emily Chapman Laing

Objections from local residents were unable to stop the endorsement of the Hampton Park Hill Development Plan by the City of Casey, which said it “must comply“ with State Government plans for the land.

The Hampton Park Hill Development Plan was endorsed at a council meeting on Tuesday 18 July.

While the council believes the enforcement of the Development Plan will “facilitate the future development of land“ around the landfill site, “for waste and resource recovery activities, regional public open spaces and light industrial activities“, residents fear the endorsement will perpetuate their suffering as the tip continues to cause odour headaches.

Many public submissions for the meeting voiced concerns over the council’s decision to endorse the plan ahead of the new EPA buffer zone guidelines due to enforce separation distance changes later this year.

The new guidelines would increase the buffer zone around the landfill site from the current distance of 500 metres, to between 1.5 and 2 kilometres.

Raymond Dalli and Troy Van Gorp were among those expressing agitation over the council “rushing“ to “rezone the tip“.

“EPA’s two new draft guidelines on separation distances and landfill buffers will support informed land use decisions for and around industry and landfills,“ Mr Van Gorp said.

“The proposed guidelines will support planning authorities, responsible authorities, industry, developers, the community and EPA.

“This means planning decision makers will be required to consider the guidelines as relevant.“

Mr Dalli questioned why the “integral“ changes from the EPA has not resulted in council “deferring the adoption“ of the plan.

Kim Murphy also emphasises the EPA buffer zone changes as having “fundamental impacts“ on the site.

According to the council, the EPA did not recommend delaying adoption of the plan based on buffer guidelines to be introduced later this year.

“The Development Plan has been prepared in consultation with the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) and the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP),“ Ms Duff said.

“The EPA have provided input into drafting and buffer maps contained in the Development Plan and both the EPA and DTP have not recommended the project be put on hold due to EPAs new draft guidelines that suggest a 1.5km - 2km landfill buffer.

“The final outcome of the EPAs new draft guidelines is unknown, and until the guidelines are legislated, the Development Plan must rely on the current 500 metre buffer and

the provisions of the Casey Planning Scheme.“

However an EPA spokesperson said “timing and implementation of the development plan“ are “not matters for EPA“.

“EPAVictoria provided advice to Council on environmental risks to be considered for the Hampton Park Hill development plan,“ they said.

“Council continues to engage with EPA on the development plan.”

According to resident Ruth Dalli, the council’s proposal neglects “the concerns of residents residing in close proximity“.

“Given the introduction of a Development Overlay and the potential for a large-scale commercial waste and resource recovery activity within a densely populated residential zone, shouldn’t the council acknowledge this as a significant constraint with potential implications for the welfare and well-being of residents,“ she said.

However, Ms Duff said on 19 July the council will be “delaying this aspect“ until “further work and investigation has been undertaken“ to determine the merit of applying the Buffer Area Overlay over residential land within the existing 500 metre buffer for the landfill.

Lynbrook Residents Association Leader Viv Paine said the council’s decision to endorse the plan is “undemocratic“.

“This decision by non-elected Administrators who never have to face a ballot box dashes the hopes of Casey residents who were promised time and again that once full the landfill would revert to public open space,“ she said.

“Long suffering residents who have put up with endless rubbish trucks and putrid odours are now a step closer to facing a huge Waste Transfer Facility at the Tip and an unwanted Buffer Overlay that will devalue their property.

“LRA will continue to push for the Waste Transfer Facility to be built elsewhere well away from family homes.“

During the meeting, council administrators responded to numerous questions from local

residents in regards to the Development Plan.

Queries included Veolia’s track record at the Hampton Park landfill, the council’s role in perpetuating the facility against the wishes of the residents, the new Environmental Protection Authority buffer zone guidelines and the role of diversity in council communications regarding the issue.

“How can council with good conscience consider the erection of a waste transfer facility when it will be managed by Veolia, given their horrible track record of managing the Hampton Park tip,“ Ryan Halket said.

“The community feedback is obvious, we do not want this facility.

“Why does it feel like council is merely entertaining us in the process and not actually listening and taking action on our feedback.“

Amanda Haslam likewise questioned why the council chose to support the Development Plan.

“Why does council support the Hampton Park Hill plan when there was such a significant and overwhelming rejection of the plan by the local residents,“ she said.

“None of you were elected by any of us therefore the input by residents should have had much more weight placed upon it, and was completely ignored.

“You didn’t even accurately portray or respond to our original questions as they were posed.“

City of Casey Acting Manager of Planning and Building Kathryn Seirlis submitted a response, which was offered by Administrator Noelene Duff.

“While we understand these matters are important to residents, they are beyond the scope of the Development plan,“ Ms Duff said.

“All submissions received have been considered and responded to.

“Changes have been made to the Hampton Park Hill Development Plan as a result of matters raised in the submissions.“

Both Ms Seirlis and the administrators acknowledged the “considerable public interest“ in the Development Plan, but maintain many of the issues raised by residents are outside the purview of the plan.

“Not all of the concerns raised in submissions could be accommodated through changes to the Development Plan,“ Ms Duff said, reading [NAMES] submitted response.

Apprehension was expressed over the council’s efforts in engaging with Casey’s diverse community throughout the Development Plan process.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics 2021 Census revealed 46.5 per cent of Casey residents were born in a country outside of Australia, with India, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan being top places of birth for many Casey locals.

Ms Murphy questioned whether council had effectively communicated information regarding the plan to the “deeply diverse demographic“ affected by the site and outcome of the plan.

Ms Seirlis responded with the public exhibition dates for the Development Plan, alongside other efforts by council to showcase the plan to the community.

“Notice of the Development was placed in the local newspapers on four occasions and several public consultation sessions were held during the exhibition period.

“Interested persons could and still can access free translation and interpreting services that are advertised on Council’s webpage.“

Ms Duff said the Development Plan must be consistent with the “strategic directions“ of the State Government.

“The State Government has identified the land as one of 22 hubs of State importance to service the needs of the region,“ she said.

“We acknowledge concerns, however due to Council’s planning role in the process and needing to not conflict with State Government policy, we were unable to consider them as part of this process.“

The Plan will inevitably influence the future character of the Hampton Park area, but the council believes these impacts will result in “improved urban design outcomes“.

Residents in the area do not share the same hopeful attitude.

“This situation leaves us in a state of uncertainty, questioning the representation of our community,“ the LRA spokesperson wrote.

“We had faith that our elected officials in the first instance and governing authorities would conduct thorough assessments and exercise due diligence and locate an alternative and appropriate site, well away from residents.

“However, the current circumstances have compelled us to reflect on the essence of governance and their duty of care towards the community.“

Keys to setting yourself up for success in business

The vast majority of new business owners start a business not because they are good at business, but for a variety of other possible reasons.

Maybe they are passionate about the field they want to operate in, or they have an idea for a new product or service.

Perhaps they believe they can operate more efficiently or effectively than others in the space or they simply want the autonomy and freedom that having your own business can provide.

However, according to recent data from the US Bureau of Statistics, approximately 20 per cent of new businesses fail during the first two years, 45 per cent during the first five years, and 65 per cent during the first 10 years.

Only 25 per cent of new businesses survive 15 years or more. Worse still, in spite of the desire for autonomy and financial freedom, most business owners find they have less spare time and generally earn less than they would had they stayed in the workforce.

Yet in spite of these relatively depressing numbers, according to data from the Australian Small Business and Family Ombudsman,

small businesses (those with 19 staff or less) make up 97.5 per cent of the population.

So how can you improve the odds? Here are my five top five things to consider:

1. Identify your target market

No matter how good your product or service, if you can’t make money you simply won’t survive.

This means being really clear about who would buy what you do and why.

It means understanding the market you are about to enter and how your true value stacks up against this.

What specific customer problems are you solving and how does your offering address these?

2. Understand the true value you bring This is essential and should be articulated

properly. This can often be derived by defining your desired business culture since your purpose, direction and values should make this clear.

When considering value, it may be tempting to believe that this means selling something similar for a lower price, but this can actually work against you since it may imply poorer quality goods or services and in a price war, a small business can never win against those with deeper pockets.

3. Know your numbers

Although the thought of dealing with numbers may be about as appealing as root canal surgery, it is essential that you have a financial plan to succeed.

This means developing a month-bymonth budget based on conservative estimates of what revenue you can achieve over the year, the expenses you will incur (which includes paying yourself a wage and superannuation!) and what you can reasonably expect to make.

It is also essential that you monitor progress against this each month and keep a very close eye on your cash position as well.

4. Develop a Business Strategy or Plan

Although few small businesses actually do this, putting some time aside before the business is actually established to determine what you plan to achieve can help identify potential issues before these are actually encountered.

A business strategy might be defined in terms of quantified business goals, what you will need to get there (staff, resources and support systems) and associated timeframes.

5. Establish a support network.

It may seem obvious when you think about it, but having access to others who have ‘been there and done that’ can save you a lot of time, heartache and money! This may include keeping in touch with business experts you know, but I would also strongly recommend joining a local business network such as BNI (Business Network International) or other local business networks such as the Narre Warren Berwick Business Group, as these can be a great source of new business as well.

Ian Ash ACC AIECL AInstIB Managing Director OrgMent Business Solutions - ombs.com.au

The Hampton Park landfill. 348748

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Keep mental

By Matthew Sims

At 26 years old, Matt De Gruchy has found strength well beyond his years and broke through the boundaries of his vision impairment.

The blindness and disability advocate will be one of the speakers at the upcoming Healthy Minds mental health forum on Tuesday 15 August from 6.30pm to 9.30pm at Lyndale Secondary College at 14 Halton Road in Dandenong North.

Held by the Rotary Club of Greater Dandenong and Endeavour Hills, in conjunction with Casey-Cardinia Rotaract, the event is suitable for adults and young people from 12 years and over and is a fundraiser to support Australian Rotary Health’s mental health research.

Mr De Gruchy was diagnosed with Stargardt disease, a rare genetic eye disease caused by fatty material building up on the macula, at the age of nine, reducing his vision by 90 per cent of my vision by the time he had reached his teen years, with his sight currently sitting between four per cent and six per cent.

“For years I would hide my blindness from others, pretending I could see more than I actually could to try and ’fit in’,“ he said.

“I was scared of being ’different’ and being picked on, I was scared of bullies and saw depictions of people with a disability in main stream media, movies & marketing as a source of entertainment.“

Mr De Gruchy said his mental health issues began at an early age.

“The stereotyping of those with disabilities is a hard stigma to break and as a young person growing up, you are easily subject to developing a low self esteem,“ he said.

“Throughout high school I struggled with mental health, anxiety and depression went hand in hand.

“It’s a rabbit hole that can be challenging to

know you’re in at the time and to work on getting out of it.“

Mr De Gruchy said he has come to accept his blindness.

“It seems silly in hindsight, but I somehow thought that if I strained my eyes really hard, maybe just maybe I’ll be able to see again, but that wasn’t reality and I did put myself through a lot of guilt and shame for having something

‘wrong’ with me that was never my choice in the first place,“ he said.

“It took a few months, if not a year, but finally I had accepted my disability.

“I was no longer afraid of what others might do or say, and I finally felt like I was moving forward.“

Mr De Gruchy said battling mental illness was similar to maintaining good hygiene as it

required daily actions.

“I always say nowadays that I’m content, I feel content within my challenges and that’s a great place for me to be, and I’m very aware that good mental health is temporary,“ he said.

“It’s important we leave space for people to share with no judgement and to just ’listen’, not just wait for them to stop speaking so we can start to talk again.

“We still don’t talk about it enough and from lived experience I know first-hand how isolating it can be.“

Mr De Gruchy said he has enjoyed sharing his story of overcoming his disability.

“For me I am at my best when I’m active,“ he said.

“I enjoy exercising and I’m also lucky enough that my job is my passion in life.

“I love sharing my story so that other people out there, blind, disabled or not, we all go through adversity and with a bit of courage & kindness, we can achieve great things.“

If you need help, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Kids Help Line on 1800 55 1800.

For more information on Mr De Gruchy’s story, visit mattdegruchyvision.com

Blindness and disability advocate Matthew De Gruchy has overcome his mental health battles via sharing his story with others. Pictures: SUPPLIED

Mr De Gruchy hopes his story can increase awareness of those with visual impairments and other disabilities.

Praise for ‘believer’ Crean

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

It was said the ever-curious Simon Crean couldn’t let an overseas trip go by without visiting every documented landmark, the highest vantage point and every church.

The worldly, ex-Hotham MP’s last stop was the grand St Paul’s Cathedral in Melbourne, where he was feted at a State funeral on 20 July.

At 74, his dynamic thirst for life and service was cut short without warning by a large blood clot in the lungs on 25 June.

At the time, he was in Berlin as part of Free Trade Agreement negotiations with the EU.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese paid tribute to a “great Australian” and “beloved son of the Australian Labor Party”.

Crean’s personal qualities of humility and compassion, integrity and intellect had “earned him a respect that knew no political boundaries”.

His spirit of working together and standing up for each other was at the heart of the Labor movement, Mr Albanese said.

“And that sense of fairness that was forever his guiding star.”

Crean was a leader of the Storemen and Packers Union, the ACTU and the Labor Party as well as Minister in four Prime Ministers’ Cabinets.

He didn’t believe in “positions of convenience” nor that politics should be a “game”, Mr Albanese said.

The reformist was fond of saying he was “joining the dots”. He fought battles but could keep the friendship.

Crean’s brother David said their lives were shaped as sons of federal MP Frank Crean. With politics at the kitchen table and home visits from leaders Gough Whitlam and Doc Evatt.

He completed law and economics degree at Monash Uni. But the anti-Vietnam War cam-

paign led him away from law to unionism, wife Carole said.

With his “incredible self-belief”, he trusted his intellect, judgement and life choices. “It gave him the strength to fit for what he believed in,” she said.

After one of his battles, Carole asked him if he won.

“No,” he said.

“Not today, but we will.”

Carole said: “Sure enough, it was a victory but a victory for all stakeholders – that was how he defined success.”

What he’d now wish for Australia was for the

FreeTrade Agreement to be agreed and signed, and TheVoice to succeed as a “positive step for all”.

Daughter Sarah Crean said her Dad’s passion was people – connecting, understanding and helping others.

Not always a patience for technology, but a patience for people.

His other passion was travel. To experience it all was something he did every day of his life, Sarah said.

At the Storemen and Packers in 1970, he met life-long friend and former ACTU leader Bill Kelty, who told mourners to judge Crean

on what he did for people’s lives.

“Simon’s DNA” was in the nation’s wages, retirement, health care, education and regional policies, and what made the country a better place, Kelty said.

Even when people forgot about what he did, there would still be things that Crean changed for the better in their lives.

He embodied courage, provided hope and fought hard for those who needed it.

Kelty said that on their many travels, Crean stopped at many churches.

“He went to them a lot because Simon was a believer and a carer to people.”

A State funeral was held for former Hotham MP Simon Crean. 348947 Pictures: JAMES ROSS, AAP

Carole Crean during a eulogy to her husband Simon. 348947

Simon Crean’s draped coffin in St Paul’s Cathedral. 348947

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SPORT

Laetisha’s Lonato lead in

Laetisha Scanlan’s preparations for the World Shooting Championships are right on the track after the Berwick hot-shot won gold recently in Lonato, Italy.

Scanlan braved some sweltering European summer heat to win the gold medal in the Women’s Trap event at the ShotgunWorld Cup.

Scanlan is one of 14 athletes who will represent Australia at the 2023 ISSF World Championships in Baku, Azerbaijan, which begin on August 17.

Competition in Lonato was tough against some of the world’s most experienced Women’s Trap competitors.

Alongside a field of 86 women, and well versed in this high level of international competition, Scanlan - a dual Olympian and current world number six - finished qualifying in third place after shooting 118 out of 125 targets.

This secured her place in the final, comprising the top six qualifiers.

“I managed to qualify with 118 which put me in bib number three for the final, so I was really happy to start in the middle of the pack,” Scanlan said.

In the final, under a blue sky and sunny warm conditions, with every target counting and a single miss detrimental to the outcome, Scanlan applied the pressure, and led the way to the gold medal. “There are so many talented women (competitors) so I knew it wasn’t going

to be an easy final,” she said.

“I was really happy to have started off strong initially and then that just led me into a battle for gold and silver against Fatima (Galvez from Spain).

“It was incredibly hot in the final but having said that I was so glad I was out there.”

Scanlan did not just have the support of the Australian Team who was watching on from the grandstand, but her parents Pamela and Bernie Scanlan made the trip to Italy to support their daughter.

“They got to watch me which was so amazing,” Laetisha said.

“They are my biggest supporters, so I am really, really, happy.”

Watching on from Melbourne, Scanlan’s husband Sam Waters was also thrilled with Laetisha’s result.

“I am just so incredibly proud of her as always,” Waters said.

“Laetisha is constantly putting in the hard work and I am so happy she was able to get the reward she deserves and in front of her parents who made the trip to Italy to support her.”

Scanlan will now return to Melbourne for a short break before she heads to Baku for the World Championships in August; a shotgun range where she won a World Cup bronze medal in 2022.

“I am looking forward to going to Baku and again competing against the best of the best.”

Berwick stuns Bulls as Boof’s boys make it four straight

By Marcus Uhe

A shock fourth-consecutive win for Berwick

in the Eastern Football Netball League Premier Division over Noble Park has heaped pressure on the reigning premiers as the mid-year revival of Clint ‘Boof’ Evans’ side continues.

In one of the club’s most significant victories in recent years since shifting to the EFNL, Berwick held the Bulls goalless in the second half to keep its finals chances alive, winning 9.8 62 to 6.12 48 on the road.

Both sides looked to maximise the dry conditions and the space afforded at Pat Wright Senior Oval by moving the ball quickly and with hands through the middle and via the wings.

Noble Park kicked two of the first three in the contest before a series of missed opportunities saw them whiff on an opportunity to maximise its dominance, having gained the upper hand around the footy and in the territory battle.

The Bulls missed three shots in a threeminute period as Berwick found itself moored in the back half, before chaining their way out of trouble to find Charlie Muley in the goalsquare for its second.

Seven shots on goal to just two for only a five-point lead told the story of both the Bulls’ wastefulness, and Berwick’s efficiency.

The home side found their radar in the second, kicking 4.2 in a more polished per-

formance. The pressure they applied in the front half of the ground was sensational, with all goals coming from turnovers forced in the forward half or freekicks won through fierce tackling.

Kevin Kean’s crunching tackle on Lachlan Vaughan was the most-notable, leading to a goal to Nathan Noblett, who kicked five in the previous encounter between the two to announce himself to the competition back in round two.

Berwick was not to be denied, however, as the pendulum of momentum swung viciously throughout the term.

No side was able to kick more than two in a row, as Berwick hit the lead at the 24th minute through Caydn Lane.

It was the Bulls with a slender lead at the half, but scoring would become harder and harder for the home side who failed to kick a major for the remainder of the afternoon.

Nick Hillard opened the scoring in the second half by sharking a ruck tap from opposition ruckman Jono Beech and nailing a long shot, a perfect start to the period for the Wickers who could sniff an upset.

Harry Money bagged a major with a long set shot to snatch the lead, the beneficiary of slick ball movement from a back six growing in confidence by the minute as it thwarted scoring opportunities.

He repeated the dose later in the term as his side showcased its ability to spread from a stoppage to push the lead to eight points.

Ahead by seven to begin the last, nerves appeared to set in for a side clinging to hopes of September action.

Four misses to open the quarter showcased their anxiety, but the Bulls didn’t fare much better.

The arm-wrestle was eventually broken by Sam Hilton-Joyce in the 24th minute, who dispossessed Luke Bull at half-forward before goaling on the run, wheeling away to his right as his teammates struggled to keep pace.

Where exuberance was written all-over the faces of those in navy blue, their counterparts in the royal variance look bereft of answers.

Hilton-Joyce was named in Berwick’s best players in just his third game of senior foot-

ball, alongside more senior heads in Hillard, Tom Brennan and Jesse Cirulis.

For the Bulls, Jackson Casey continues to earn his keep, while Josh Stern kicked two.

Accuracy continues to dog Steve Hughes’ side, having not kicked more goals than behinds since thrashing Park Orchards in round eight, and averaging just 47 points in its last five outings.

Against East Ringwood in round 12 it was a goalless final term, only managing six behinds, an alarming sign for a side looking to defend its crown.

Berwick will look to push its winning run to five when it hosts Balwyn next week, while the Bulls will look to rectify its current skid, having dropped three of its last four, against Park Orchards.

Results R14: Noble Park 6.12 48 def by Berwick 9.8 62, East Ringwood 8.13 61 def by Rowville 14.12 96, Blackburn 8.11 59 def by Park Orchards 13.8 86, Norwood 8.10 58 def by 14.10 94, Vermont 33.14 212 def Doncaster 5.5 35, Doncaster East 17.8 110 def South Croydon 10.11 71.

Ladder: Vermont 44, Rowville 40, Balwyn 40, East Ringwood 40, Doncaster East 36, Noble Park 32, Blackburn 28, Berwick 24, Norwood 20, Park Orchards 16, South Croydon 12, Doncaster 4.

Fixture R15: Berwick v Balwyn, South Croydon v Rowville, Noble Park v Park Orchards, Doncaster v Blackburn,Vermont v East Ringwood, Doncaster East v Norwood.

Berwick players arm-in-arm after their win over Noble Park. 348935

Pictures: ROB CAREW

Tom Brennan escapes the clinches of Noble Park’s Liam Scott.

Berwick’s Charlie Muley and Jayden Graham compete in the air against Noble Park’s Riet Pal. 348935

Laetisha Scanlan is in red-hot form ahead of the Shooting World Championships in August. 349279

Picture: AAP IMAGES

SPORT Benstead keeps the faith

By Marcus Uhe

Berwick Springs coach Rod Benstead said he hasn’t lost faith in his Titans’ premiership prospects in 2023, despite a calamitous loss to Seville on Saturday.

The 108-point margin was the third-biggest defeat in the club’s short history, with an inaccurate Titans side kicking 4.13 (37) to the Blues’ 22.13 (145) at Seville.

The Blues saved their highest-scoring quarter for last, slamming on 9.4 in the final term to send a message to their blue and green opponents, the side they are desperately trying to unseat from second place.

But a quirk in the fixture means that the two will meet again in two weeks time, giving the Titans the chance to hit-back straight after their round 14 bye, a contest Benstead labelled as a “statement game”.

“I said after the game, I’ve still got so much belief in the group, and I’ve got trust,” Benstead said.

“Sometimes you just have poor days and you move on really quickly.

“I think [Seville] are strong at the contest, they’ve just a bit of experience and took territory.

“They play to their strengths, they were pretty physical on the weekend.

“We’ve got that opportunity next week when we play them again, so that’s exciting.”

Domenic Aloi (five goals), Dylan Broadway (four) and Ryan Farrow (four) combined for 13 of Seville’s 22, while Berwick Springs finished without multiple goalkickers.

Stars Aidan Nelson and Hayden Stagg shone for the Titans, as did defender Riley Hillman.

“We kicked 1.5 in the first quarter and it was 16 entries to five,” Benstead said.

“We probably just needed to capitalise early and when we didn’t, they got their opportunities and scored.

“Each time we’ve had a performance like that we’ve had the ability to redeem ourselves, so that’s the question.

“It’ll be interesting to see the scorelines of the next encounter.”

Lachlan Marie kicked one major on debut for the Titans who were forced to test their depth, missing a number of key players including leading goalkicker Ty Ellison, defenders Jarryd Hocking and Jayden Malek, and midfielder Daniel Ousley.

At Officer, a five-goal blitz to open the final quarter from Emerald put to bed any chance of an upset from the Kangaroos, winning 15.12 102 to 11.9 75 at Starling Road.

The Bombers had got the better of Officer comfortably in their two meetings earlier in 2023, by 60 points in round one and 83 points in round eight, but the Kangaroos played with

an attacking flair that had the ladder leaders under the pump.

Goals to Mark Seedman and Lachlan Ward cut a 20-point half time margin to eight within just five minutes of the third quarter.

Lachlan Hoye and Matt Edwards offered steadiers for the Bombers, but the persistent Kangaroos would not be denied, with consec-

utive goals to Troy Tharle ensuring just a slim nine-point lead at the final break.

Emerald had been tested in recent weeks, notably against Berwick Springs and even losing its first contest of the season against Seville in round 11, meaning the pressure was on to reaffirm its premiership credentials.

But good sides respond when faced with adversity, and that’s exactly what the Bombers did.

Lachlan Crnogorac and Noah Van Haren both showed their immense talent with roving goals off contests at speed to push the margin to 21 after seven minutes.

Shortly after, three goals in four minutes from Hoye, Crnogorac and Isaac Seskis pushed the lead to 39, the widest the gap between the two sides all day.

As the Bombers’ dynamic forward pack did its damage, the defence held up its end of the bargain, clamping-down on Officer’s forward threats and not allowing a major until the 24th minute, by which stage the game was all but over.

Not only were the defenders cutting off attacking forays, but their ability to mark and initiate attack through the corridor was critical as the game went on.

Hoye and Crnogorac each finished with three for Emerald, who boast an embarrassment of riches in its forward half.

David Johnson was held to just two but missed a number of shots, while Rogan Goonan was held goalless.

For Officer, Mark Seedsman kicked a second bag of five in two weeks and Troy Tharle three, but unlike their opponents they lacked enough avenues to goal.

In spite of a much-improved performance, it continues Officer’s inability to get the better of sides ranked above them on the Division One ladder, and sees them fall from fourth to fifth.

Healesville are back on the winners list and into fourth place, replacing Officer, after a nine-goal third quarter from blew Belgrave out of the water following a tight first half.

A six-point halftime lead to the Bloods became 59 at the final break and 80 at the final siren as the Magpies were held to just two behinds after half time.

Eight goals to Sam Gebert sends him soaring to the top of the leading goalkicker’s list, ahead of two clear of Johnson on 34.

Grundy gets going as Casey curtails the Coburg Lions

By Marcus Uhe

Brodie Grundy’s life as a permanent fixture in the Casey Demons forward line begun with positive signs, kicking 1.3 in his side’s sevengoal win over Coburg in round 18VFL action.

13.17 (95) indicates a wasteful display from the reigning premiers but the scoreline was supplemented by a number of rushed behinds by the Lions, who could only muster 7.11 (53).

All eyes were on the former Collingwood ruck who started the contest playing out of the goalsquare.

Much of his afternoon was spent deep forward and taking ruck contests in the forward 50, while occasionally pushing higher onto the wings as a lead-up player.

He missed his first two shots on goal before takingtheballcleanlyfromaboundarythrowin and snapping from close range to nail his only goal of the afternoon late in the second quarter, to the delight of his teammates and

no-doubt relief of the man himself.

He finished the afternoon with 12 disposals, 12 hit outs, four marks and four tackles to go with his solitary goal, as he aims to sharpen his forward craft in order to partner with Max Gawn at senior level.

The Demons finished the first term with 3.6 to their opponents’ two behinds, a missed

chance to bolster their percentage with finals on the horizon.

They kicked much straighter in the second period, nailing five goals for a 35-point halftime lead.

Grundy, Cranbourne’s George Grey, Melbourne premiership forward Charlie Spargo, Josh Schache and Matthew Jefferson all hit the scoreboard as the gulf between AFLaligned sides and standalone clubs in theVFL came to the fore.

Spargo looked a class-above early in the contest as his ball use stood out among stateleague listed counterparts.

He nailed a classy set shot and played a hand in a number of other scoring chains, hitting Schache and Grey inside 50 for majors in the first half.

Jefferson’s second goal in the third term extended Casey’s margin to 43 midway through the quarter as the Lions battled to string together consecutive goals.

They soon found the magic formula and

cut the margin to 31, but it only offered brief respite as the reigning premiers kicked the next three for a 48-point lead during the fourth term.

It was as large as the margin reached all afternoon, but the Lions were lucky to not trail by more, finishing -15 in the inside 50 count and taking 12 less shots on goal.

The height afforded through Schache, Grundy and Jefferson in the forward 50 was too much to handle for the Coburg defenders, the trio finishing with a combined 17 marks and five goals from 13 shots.

Luke Dunstan, meanwhile, filled the stat sheet with 40 disposals and a goal, to keep his name in the frame for an AFL recall.

James Harmes (33 disposals) and Michael Hibberd (30) were not far behind.

The Dees return home to Casey Fields for the first time since round 15 next week when they host the Williamstown Seagulls on Sunday in a high-stakes game between two finals aspirants.

Luke Dunstan amassed 40 disposals and a goal for Casey in Saturday’s win over Coburg.

325648

Picture: ROB CAREW

Lachlan Hoye (5) flies high to outmark teammate David Johnson and Officer’s Troy Tharle. 348937

Picture: GARY SISSONS

Zoe Besanko snagged two in 90 seconds to help Dandenong kick away. 347259

Rays rolling

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Dandenong has overcome a slow start to defeat the Northern Knights 10.14 74 to 5.3 33 at Genis Steel Oval, Preston.

The Knights scored the only two goals of the first term to go into the first break 11 points ahead, before Dandenong came out firing after the break.

The game completely shifted in the second quarter.

It took just one minute for Sophie Butterworth to kick Dandenong’s first goal.

Elli Symonds put it on a platter for Jemma Reynolds to give Dandenong the first clearance of the term, Kayla Dalgleish laying a tackle inside 50 to keep it locked in.

Nikita Harris (15 disposals, nine tackles) then hit up Butterworth who had front position on her opponent and nailed the set shot from 30.

Butterworth followed it up three minutes later, outsmarting her opponent for a simple snag in the goal square to give the visitors the lead.

Two goals in the last 90 seconds to key-position player Zoe Besanko put an exclamation mark on the quarter, the Rays going into the main break ahead by 16 points.

Another five goals to two in the second half extended the margin, Dandenong owning territory for much of that time, winning the overall inside 50 count 49-17.

Ahead of Vic Country’s first game of the girls championships this week, Butterworth tuned up with four goals, Reynolds had 24 and one goal and Meg Robertson and Mikayla Williamson each accumulated 23 possessions.

Fellow Vic Country squad member Symonds would also have gained confidence from her ruck battle with Lauren Jatczak, two years older than her and with VFLW experience.

Sharp Eagles show a devilish desire

By David Nagel

Beaconsfield can almost taste its first appearance in an Eastern Division One finals series after a hugely important 21-point away victory over Wantirna South on Saturday.

The fourth-placed Eagles are now two games clear of a chasing pack in sixth, seventh and eighth after breaking open a see-sawing four-quarter contest with the last two goals of the match.

Late majors to the returning Darren Minchington, and Michael Misso, guided the Eagles to a 12.14.86 to 9.11.65 victory at Walker Reserve.

Minchington was one of three inclusions for the Eagles, with the nuggety half-forward joining key defender Declan Curran and second-ruck Ben Schultze in the side, replacing Matt Johnson, Sam Merrick and Taelor Reyment.

The Eagles took time to settle and were comprehensively outplayed in the first term.

The Devils kicked the first two goals of the match, through James Krikas, before Myles Currie marked and goaled to cut the margin to six.

Midfielder Lincoln Wong was proving a real handful for the Eagles, and answered Currie’s major, before Jaryd Smith extended the home sides margin with a long set shot for goal.

The Eagles were 20 points down at quarter time, but played their best football in the second quarter to work their way into the contest.

Minchington began the revival with a set shot from a tight angle, before the Devils answered quickly.

Beaconsfield then kicked three goals in seven minutes, with Jafar Ocaa converting a sensational grab, before Minchington kicked a left-foot snap from the pocket.

Harrison Coe, who was playing a terrific game in the ruck, then also marked and goaled to cut the deficit to a point…13 minutes into an exciting second stanza.

Both teams continued to take the game on, with Nathan Denes nailing a set shot for the Devils before Misso replied to once again narrow the gap.

Skipper Jake Bowd then calmly slotted the Eagles sixth goal for the quarter, right on the half-time siren, to give the visitors a four-point lead at the half.

The Eagles appeared to take control of proceedings early in the third, with Damien John-

ston finding way too much space in the corridor, before Bowd put the visitors 17 points ahead with a classy finish from distance.

But the Devils answered twice, with the Eagles taking an eight-point lead into a crucial final term.

There was a lot to play for; with the Devils set to join the Eagles on seven wins for the season if they could get the choccies in front of their home crowd!

But the Eagles refused to buckle, with Coe and Casey Wassylko taking some hugely-important grabs around the ground, with Devon Smith playing the perfect shadowing role on Wong.

Ethan Harris also played a key role through the midfield, while LachieValentine, Trent Stokoe, Brandon White and Josh Mounter really knuckled down in defence.

Ocaa opened the scoring with a classy finish on his left, before Kye Barlow responded to reduce the margin back to seven.

Kye Rowland then missed the unmissable for the Eagles from close range, but it would not prove costly with Minchington and Misso finishing off the job in style.

Minchington led the way with three goals, in just his fourth game for the season, with

Bowd, Misso and Ocaa all chiming in with two. The Eagles face a huge challenge this week, heading to third-placed Montrose, before a home-game against North Ringwood (fifth) and a final-round visit to a winless Lilydale. One win from those three remaining games should be enough to see the Eagles qualify for finals.

WANTIRNASOUTH

4.5 6.7 8.9 9.11(65)

BEACONSFIELD

1.3 7.5 9.11 12.14(86)

Wantirna South Goals: M. Jordan 2, J. Krikas 2, J. Smith, N. Denes, L. Wong, D. Del Papa, K. Barlow. Best: L. Grima, L. Wong, J. Smith, B. Kainey, M. Jordan, D. Del Papa.

Beaconsfield Goals: D. Minchington 3, M. Misso 2, J. Bowd 2, J. Ocaa 2, M. Currie, D. Johnston, H. Coe. Best: H. Coe, D. Smith, M. Misso, C. Wassylko, E. Harris, L. Valentine. Other Results R15: South Belgrave 12.10.82 def Mitcham 11.7.73, Mooroolbark 15.12.102 def Lilydale 0.8.8, Croydon 12.7.79 def Bayswater 7.9.51, North Ringwood 7.14.56 drew with Montrose 8.8.56.

Ladder: South Belgrave 60, Mitcham 44, Montrose 42, Beaconsfield 32, North Ringwood 30, Mooroolbark 24, Bayswater 24, Wantirna South 24, Croydon 20, Lilydale 0. Fixture R16: Montrose (3) v Beaconsfield (4), Bayswater (7) v North Ringwood (5), Lilydale (10) v Wantirna South (8), Mitcham (2) v Croydon (9), Mooroolbark (6) v South Belgrave (1).

Finally...some stunning sunny weather hits the courts

The weather gods smiled down on players in the Berwick and District Tennis Association (BDTA) on Saturday with a beautiful winter’s morning greeting players at courts across the region.

A full-round of Sunday matches was also played, but Saturday morning produced the best conditions of the season so far.

And it was Narre Warren North, Pakenham, Drouin and Beaconsfield Blue who made the most of the conditions, having strong victories in the Osborne Shield.

Pakenham and Drouin were in dominant form against Sandhurst and Officer Blue respectively, while Narre Warren North and Beaconsfield Blue had to work a little harder against Cranbourne and Beaconsfield Gold. Herearethisweek’sresults:

SATURDAY

OsborneShield

Cranbourne 1 2:22 v 2 4:29 Narre Warren

North, Pakenham 3 6:37 v 0 0:9 Sandhurst, Drouin 3 6:46 v 0 2:38 Officer Blue, Beaconsfield Blue 2 5:42 v 1 2:24 Beaconsfield Gold.

Section1Rubbers

Officer Blue 1 2:28 v 2 4:34 Harkaway, Narre

Warren 1 3:41 v 2 5:44 Officer Red, Berwick 1

3:34 v 2 4:30 Cranbourne.

Section2Rubbers

Clyde 0 0:9 v 3 6:36 Berwick Blue, Pakenham

1 2:21 v 2 4:28 Narre Warren, Berwick White 0

0:18 v 3 6:37 Cranbourne, Upper Beaconsfield 3 6:41 v 0 1:27 Narre Warren North.

Section3Rubbers

Clyde White 3 6:37 v 0 0:13 Berwick Black, Cranbourne 1 2:26 v 2 4:30 BerwickWhite, Berwick Blue 0 0:16 v 3 6:36 Clyde Green, Narre

Warren North 3 6:36 v 0 0:12 Bunyip.

Section4Rubbers

CranbourneWhite 1 3:38 v 2 5:42 NarreWarren South, Clyde Blue 2 4:32 v 1 2:18 Cranbourne Red, Beaconsfield Blue 2 4:35 v 1 3:37 Beaconsfield Gold.

Section5Rubbers

Cranbourne Black 2 4:32 v 1 2:25 Narre Warren North Red, NarreWarren North Black 3 6:36 v 0

0:11 Cranbourne Yellow, Cockatoo v Beaconsfield (Missing Results).

Section6Singles

Hallam 3:34 v 5:37 Berwick Blue, Pakenham 2:28 v 6:40 Clyde, Upper Beaconsfield 7:45 v 1:26 Tooradin.

Section7Singles

Officer Blue 7:46 v 1:14 Berwick White, Officer Red 1:8 v 7:46 Narre Warren, Berwick Blue 6:48 v 2:27 Cranbourne, Narre Warren North 3:27 v 5:38 Beaconsfield.

Section8Singles

Cranbourne 7:45 v 1:10 Fountain Gate Green, Narre Warren 5:42 v 3:30 Fountain Gate Gold, Berwick 7:47 v 1:17 Officer.

Section9Singles Narre Warren North 1:17 v 7:44 Clyde, Beaconsfield 2:28 v 6:41 Tooradin.

SUNDAY

Section10Singles

Berwick Blue 7:43 v 1:28 Cranbourne, Upper Beaconsfield 4:38 v 4:38 Berwick White, Harkaway 4:31 v 4:34 Narre Warren.

Section11Singles

Berwick Blue 4:39 v 4:38 Gloucester, Narre Warren Gold 5:37 v 3:29 Berwick White, Clyde 5:40 v 3:32 Narre Warren Green.

Section12Singles

Berwick 4:35 v 4:34 Beaconsfield, Officer 3:32 v 5:39 Harkaway, Gloucester 3:28 v 5:42 Pakenham.

Section13Singles

Narre Warren Green 6:40 v 2:19 Cranbourne, Beaconsfield 6:41 v 2:24 Pakenham.

Section14Singles

Narre Warren Gold 7:47 v 1:25 Cranbourne Green, Officer 0:13 v 8:48 Narre Warren Green, Cranbourne Gold 4:38 v 4:29 Fountain Gate.

Section15GreenBallSingles

Officer 6:43 v 2:27 Berwick, Cranbourne Red 3:34 v 5:36 Beaconsfield.

Section16Doubles

Narre Warren 6:36 v 0:10 Fountain Gate, Beaconsfield 5:35 v 1:16 Narre Warren South.

Section17Doubles

Narre Warren 1:16 v 5:32 Upper Beaconsfield, Clyde 0:6 v 6:36 Pakenham.

Section18Doubles

Berwick Blue 3:31 v 3:29 Narre Warren Green, Hallam 2:19 v 4:30 Berwick White.

Players enjoyed sunny conditions in the BDTA on Saturday. 293980 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Picture: ROB CAREW

Devon Smith played a key lock-down role in the last quarter of Beaconsfield’s win over Wantirna South on Saturday. 347270

Pictures: GARY SISSONS

Damien Johnston kicked an important goal in the third quarter for the Eagles. 347270

Principal