News - Cranbourne Star News - 10th August 2023

Trapped by works

By Emily Laing

Residents in Cranbourne East say they are “trapped“ after the road closures were introduced on both ends of Linsell Boulevard.

Locals living in the nearby Hunt Club and Livingston Estates say getting out of their estates is“an absolute nightmare“ as the number of roads experiencing closures and roadworks piles up.

“Especially around school times, it takes 20 minutes or more just to exit the estate,“ Nathan Tennyson said.

“I just wanted milk, took me an hour to get it,“ Andrew Feather said.

Cascades Clyde resident Maggie Rose said her estate “can only exit onto Linsell Boulevard“.

“It’s frustrating to have people in leadership care so little for how these works have impacted our area,“ she said.

“Upgraded roads are great but the competency of the people handling these upgrades has become questionable.“

Livingston resident Casey Bree said it took her “20 minutes just get to the traffic lights at Berwick-Cranbourne Road“.

“Then another 15 minutes to get to my children’s primary school that is 2.7km from my house,“ she said.

“So that’s 35 minutes to get my children to school which normally would take me 6-7 mins max.“

Christina Allan, who lives a mere 1.6 kilometres from St Peter’s College, said it took her “40 minutes“ to get there because of the roadworks.

Member for Cranbourne Pauline Richards said she is asking for everyone’s “patience“ as they “drive through these major infrastructure projects“.

“I understand this is a very difficult time for the Cranbourne East and Clyde North communities while we add extra lanes to Narre Warren - Cranbourne Road,“ she said.

“We can all see a lot of high vis as we move

around our community, so please remember to slow down and allow extra time to keep our local construction workers safe.

“I know the construction crews are working hard to open the roads as quickly as possible“.

The road closures affecting Cranbourne residents come from a slew of different development entities, including Major Road ProjectsVictoria (MRPV), City of Casey and private developers.

The intersecting projects led by these developers have led to a build up of road works in the Cranbourne area, as residents become boxed in by overlapping closures.

The Linsell Boulevard works are being led by both MRPV and the City of Casey, with MRPV responsible for the new closures on NarreWarren-Cranbourne Road and the council overseeing the Clyde Road works.

With the City of Casey running far behind

in their scheduled development of Linsell Boulevard and Clyde Road, MRPV are now facing backlash as their works overlap with the blown-out schedule of the council.

The Linsell Boulevard/Clyde Road works began in February 2022, and were set to be completed in November last year.

Seventeen months later and locals are still waiting for full access to the road to be returned to them.

The delay came from MelbourneWater’s refusal to grant approval for the council to construct an easement on their chosen location.

The council has since gotten the “necessary approvals“ and work is expected to continue at the site.

“Council acknowledges the disruptions caused by roadworks in the local community and the fatigue of ongoing roadworks for residents living in those areas,“ Trevor Griffin,

Manager City Design and Construction said.

“While Council has little influence over the scheduling of MRPV and Big Build Projects, we acknowledge there will be some inconvenience caused by these works in order to achieve the future benefits of new road infrastructure.

“Council apologises for the inconveniences its construction works at Berwick-Cranbourne Rd (Clyde Road) have caused and appreciates the understanding and patience of the communities impacted by the construction works at either end of Linsell Boulevard.”

The Clyde Road/Linsell Boulevard intersection is expected to be completed by the end of October 2023, subject to weather and traffic signal works.

“We are working with our contractor and Department of Transport and Planning to bring works forward to re-establish left-in leftout traffic movement on the Berwick Cranbourne Road (Clyde Road) as soon as possible,“ Mr Griffin said.

Major Road Projects Victoria Program Director Marc Peterson said MRPV has been working closely with the City of Casey and Department of Transport and Planning to allow left in-left out access from the City’s work site at the eastern end of Linsell Boulevard, with the intersection opening to traffic on Monday morning.

“Once our upgrade is complete, Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road will become a straightthrough movement when travelling north from South Gippsland Highway, improving traffic flow and travel times for the 33,000 motorists who use the road every day,“ he said.

“The upgrade to Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road is critical for locals and the hundreds of thousands of people living in the City of Casey.

“We’ve made a number of signal and signage changes to improve traffic flow on detour routes and keep delays within advised timeframes.”

Continued page 3

Wayne Smith slams IBAC

LinsellBoulevardandNarreWarren-CranbourneRoad. 351661

Picture:STEWARTCHAMBERS

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. There will be workshops and demonstrations, as well as presentations by the Melbourne Bird Vet Clinic, and RSPCA in collaboration with Zoo Victoria who will talk about the Safe Cat Safe Wildlife campaign. There will also be live music by Sage Kelly, a wildlife show, roving performers, food trucks, a sausage sizzle and a coffee van, and the ever-popular face painting. On-site parking is limited and if you bring your furry friend along, please make sure it’s on a lead at all times.

Applications open for Community Selection Panel

Are you passionate about making a difference in your community?

We are thrilled to announce that applications are open to join the Community Selection Panel, a program dedicated to help empower voices and shape the future of the Casey community.

The panel is tasked with assessing and recommending community grant applications and nominations for various Casey awards. This exciting initiative seeks to involve passionate individuals who are eager to make a tangible difference in their neighbourhood and the greater Casey community. Council is looking for more than 50 volunteers who are ready to be part of the group. Applications close 29 August. Visit Casey Conversations for more information.

Come cheer on the Casey Demons

The Casey Demons will play their final game of the VFL home and away season on Sunday 20 August.

The Dees will take on the Brisbane Lions at 12.05 pm at Casey Fields in Cranbourne East. Come and celebrate Casey Round and cheer on the red and blue.

New Waste Guide out now

If you need to check which items can go into each bin, when your recycling or green collection is or how to book a hard waste collection, you’ll find it all in the new Casey Waste Guide.

The updated guide is now available on Council’s website, as well as a handy A-Z reference that covers everything from aluminium foil to zip lock bags. If you prefer to receive a paper copy, visit our website of contact our Customer Service team and we’ll have one sent out to you.

Linking residents to services

Would you like to learn more about local events and social groups? Or perhaps you’re after information about aged, disability and carer support services?

Drop into our Customer Service Centres at Bunjil Place every Wednesday or Cranbourne Park every Thursday from 10.00 am to 2.00 pm to speak to members of our Link Worker Program team. They can connect you to a wide range of services, support and activities. For more information, visit our website.

Council Meetings

Members of the community are welcome to attend the upcoming Council Meetings which are held in the Bunjil Place Function Room, 2 Patrick Northeast Drive, Narre Warren.

Council Meetings start at 4.00 pm and are also live streamed through our Facebook page and YouTube channel. For more information on Council Meetings, or meeting minutes and agendas, please visit our website.

Upcoming Council Meetings:

• Tuesday 15 August

• Tuesday 19 September

• Tuesday 17 October

• Tuesday 21 November

• Tuesday 12 December

Photo credit: Sean Paulic.

Inclusion wins at Amstel

This month, the Amstel Club was awarded the prestigious Mental and Social Well-being Program (Metro) Award at the Community Clubs Victoria (CCV) 2023 Gala Awards.

The award acknowledged Amstel Club’s inclusive initiatives providing meaningful opportunities for those living with a disability.

An offering of the size offered by Amstel Club does not exist anywhere within the Community Club space.

The team at Amstel Club are firm believers that everyone should be given an opportunity, and their inclusivity initiatives are bridging the gap for those living with disabilities.

Jo Muir, Amstel Club Inclusion Manager said “I could not be prouder of what the Amstel Club have done to raise not only awareness of inclusion but also to be the trailblazer in the community, providing so many opportunities for learning, skills building and confidence growth“.

“Working alongside each participant of the program, and watching them learn and grow is my cup half full moment.“

Amstel Club provide over 72 participant hours a week dedicated to inclusion-based activities within the Club environment.

These programmes allow 13 individuals, who are each living with a disability, the chance to learn and build in confidence.

This is undertaken throughout a range of opportunities, all supported in conjunction with the team from Umbrella Support.

The participants see themselves involved in many aspects of the Amstel Club and the surrounding community of Cranbourne.

The Amstel Club undertakes three inclusions programmes and is a leader in disability inclusion within the hospitality sector.

Amstel offers a fully award paid employment programme for 7 participants who to date have celebrated 600 hours of fully paid employment.

Many do not get the opportunity for fully award paid employment however, this team get the same wage as others on staff, and Ams-

tel are very proud of this achievement.

The employment team are based in the bistro they are learning all aspects of bistro service.

The programme runs on Tuesday and Wednesday lunch service in the Amstel bistro.

A community cafe, called Every 1 has been running since February in the courtyard at Amstel.

This serves as a training ground providing customer service, food handling and preparation and social opportunities.

The team has two qualified baristas, making the best coffee in town, and a great team working on making milkshakes and smoothies.

This cafe operates weekly each Thursday afternoon from 1.30 – 3.30pm with 8 participants.

The Every 1 is a safe community space for the team to learn, put their skills into practice and meet so many wonderful members of the community who come in to enjoy a drink and some great hospitality not found anywhere else.

Every 1 has been a huge success with the community with well over 1,000 drinks served throughout the past 5 months.

Amstel Club also run a cooking academy each week.

This allows participants to gain skills in cooking and preparing meals, food handling and understanding of a commercial kitchen.

This is run by the Amstel Executive Chef and his team, and allows real skills building to assist the team to cook independently and create good food choices and practises.

“These programs allow our participants the opportunity to grow in both confidence and learning,“ said Daniel Muir, Managing Director of Amstel Club.

“It is a real honour to run these programs and be recognised at the winner of this area of inclusion for the state of Victoria.

“The heart of our club is community and providing these opportunities and giving back is just what community clubs do.”

Mr Muir said he“couldn’t be prouder“ of his team.

“This award is for Haley, Charlotte, Tildy, Shan, Amelia, Angelina, TJ, Cody, Ryan, Scarlett, Britt, Aly and Bethany,“ he said.

“Each of these amazing individuals are a wonderful addition to our Amstel Team.“

Community is key to Amstel and the award has been a welcome acknowledgement to the team who work on making these programmes both enriching and beneficial to each of the participants.

The plaque will proudly be displayed in the Amstel Club foyer for the community to admire.

CCV Chairman & President, Greg Roberts said the awards night provided the appropriate platform for clubs to be recognised for their hard work.

“We believe it’s crucial to acknowledge and appreciate our Clubs who have continued to adapt to the challenging operational climate,” said Mr Roberts

“We are thrilled to host this prestigious awards night, a celebration of the remarkable individuals and clubs whose unwavering efforts have made a profound impact on our local communities.

“It is an honour to recognise their exceptional contributions to the social and economic well-being of Victoria.“

The CCV Awards Night offers an opportunity for clubs and their employees to celebrate their achievements through a variety of award categories, including community partnerships, sustainability, entertainment, social impact, well-being and more.

The night serves as a platform to recognise and acknowledge the successful individuals and Clubs whose contributions greatly impact the social and economic well-being of their Victorian communities.

Linsell Boulevard works leave locals feeling trapped

From page 1

Private developments, including the construction of the new Cranbourne North Aged Care and RetirementVillage byWinslow Constructors’ Medium Density team on Thompsons Road are further exacerbating the road restrictions and preventing MRPV and the council from creating effective detours.

Alongside the torturous delays in traffic, residents have also raised many safety concerns exacerbated by the new road closure.

“I saw 2 rear-enders happen before I got out of the estate on Tuesday and one just out and down the road, a testament to how anxious drivers are,“ Hunt Club local Marnie Jones said.

Pedestrians have also been left walking

an “inconvenient“ and “unsafe“ line without pathways.

“With building and road works on Berwick-Cranbourne Rd from the Livingston Estate to the Sladen St roundabout is anyone thinking of the pedestrians?“ Emma Materne said.

“Concrete bollards line both sides of the road now with no footpath on either side available.

“Daily I see pedestrians walking in the road lane alongside oncoming traffic because it is the only way they can get to the bus stop outside of Casey RACE.“

Others have witnessed emergency services prevented from navigating through the traffic, potentially leaving life threatening

situations without the proper response.

“An ambulance with sirens on yesterday afternoon couldn’t get through the congestion because no one had anywhere to go,“ Ms Bree said.

“I fear if there was an emergency and an ambulance was required during the peak entryandexittimestothisestate,“MsJonessaid.

“You cant close this many roads in and out of an estate and not foresee that there would be problems like this, surely,“ Morgan Symonds said.

MRPV reports they have held “onsite briefings“ for emergency services regarding possible detours.

“Ambulance Victoria is working closely

with the City of Casey to ensure we can continue to respond effectively to emergencies and serve the local community during road closures,“ an AmbulanceVictoria spokesperson said.

The Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road closure is expected to last until mid-October, with the Cranbourne population left wondering how such “poor planning“ was given the go ahead.

“No one is disputing that the roadworks are needed, what is being disputed is the poor management of these timelines,“ Ms Materne said.

“The area of Casey and it’s population cannot handle multiple projects at once.

“It’s dangerous and careless.”

The Every 1 Cooking Academy team.

Pictures: SUPPLIEDJo Muir and Daniel Muir hold Amstel Club’s latest award.

Smith slams

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Casey’s longest-serving councillor Wayne Smith says being named adversely in an IBAC investigation has done him “major damage”.

“It’s major damage to my reputation because I’m not there on council anymore,” the ALP councillor told Star News, referring to the councillors being sacked by the State Government in early 2020.

“I’m very proud of my time on council, the things I’m responsible for – I’m proud of that.”

An Operation Sandon report stated Smith appeared “wilfully blind” to his conflict-ofinterest obligations involving developer John Woodman.

In private evidence, Smith told IBAC that he was unaware that donations – received via former mayor Janet Halsall’s spouse Bob - that “benefited (Smith’s) community work” were from Woodman.

They included $20,000 in sponsorships to allow Smith to travel to a music festival as part of his community radio program, as well as support to others seeking to study overseas.

After the report’s release, Smith told Star News that he wasn’t privy to Woodman’s involvement.

“I didn’t seek sponsorship (for the music festival trip). He ended up being a sponsor of the radio program.

“If anyone thinks it was a holiday, it was a fantastic experience but no holiday.”

IBAC found Smith failed to declare the conflict while voting on Woodman-related planning matters at Casey Council – something that he maintains was a “mistake” that he was not aware of.

As deputy mayor, Smith had chaired planning meetings and made decisive casting votes in favour of Woodman-linked developments.

He’d told IBAC he didn’t know who the applicants were.

“All sorts of company names and estate names came up,” he told IBAC.

“I wasn’t aware of the companies that (Woodman) may have been involved in or have an interest in.

“He never personally contacted me … and I don’t know that his representatives did either.”

Smith told IBAC that he didn’t read the growth-corridor council’s “voluminous” planning papers or take a “real interest in planning matters”.

Instead he followed the lead of councillor SamAziz–whohassubsequentlybeenaccused by IBAC of failing to declare about $600,000 of payments and benefits from Woodman.

When asked by Star News if he would have acted differently in hindsight, Smith said: “It’s

hard to say because at the time you are busy and you have a lot of trust and faith in others.

“At the time I had no reason to doubt that.”

Smith said no councillor was across every detail of council decisions, and wouldn’t be opposed to planning being instead decided by independent panels.

“Especially because planning was not my thing. There were other councillors who were across it.

“I had my expertises that other councillors knew I was across, as I did to others. There was no one all-rounder on council.

“It’s not a full-time job. You can’t be expected to be across everything.

“Hindsight is a great thing. I’m very comfortable standing on my record. There was

some criticism of me – I have to accept that.”

Smith told IBAC he met Woodman about three times in 20 years, mainly at social occasions like charity events.

IBAC found there was evidence that Smith was indirectly briefed by Woodman on planning projects via Bob Halsall.

“IBAC does not accept Councillor Smith’s evidence that he was entirely unaware of Mr Woodman’s patronage, and of the projects in which Mr Woodman was interested.

“It is most unlikely that MrWoodman would have extended financial support to Councillor Smith over several years, even indirectly, without expecting to obtain the benefit of Councillor Smith’s vote when the need arose.”

During the 2016 Casey Council elections, Smith was also among 11 candidates who were covertly funded by Woodman.

He did not declare $6743 in gifts from Woodman and linked entities for his campaign, despite Local Government Act requirements to do so.

Smith told IBAC that he believed Aziz was personally covering the costs.

“When I asked Sam that one time about it, it was made clear you know, I’m covering that – end of discussion.”

Smith, like several former Casey councillors, was critical of the “unfair” IBAC process. His responses supplying the “full context” didn’t appear in the final report, he said.

“I was fortunate my interview was private. I thought I’d be the last person but it’s dragged out and taken so long.”

When asked if he would stand again for the 2024 elections, he said: “Who knows? I haven’t even thought about it. Between now and then, it’s a long time.

“I’m still a very active volunteer in the community, I’m happy with that.”

Bob Halsall and Cr Wayne Smith at a Cranbourne GP Run in 2017. 173683 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Jail for armed intruders

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

A pair of intruders who cornered and stabbed a resident in his Narre Warren bedroom and stole his laptop have faced court.

Benjamin Allen Delphin, 29, of Narre Warren, pleaded guilty at the Victorian County Court to aggravated burglary, causing injury intentionally and theft.

Co-offender Joel Kyle, 25, of Cranbourne North, pleaded guilty to aggravated burglary, drug possession, dealing with suspected proceeds of crime, theft and aggravated assault.

The pair kicked open the home’s front door about 7.20am on 30 July 2021.

Delphin was armed with a large knife and Kyle grabbed a knife from the kitchen. They stormed through the house throwing fixtures and fittings.

The victim – who was known to Delphinarmed himself with kitchen knives and retreated into his bedroom.

Kyle climbed in through the bedroom win-

dow and Delphin came in through the door. They cornered the man who dropped his knives.

Delphin struck out at the man with his knife, slashing his wrist with a deep laceration as he raised his arm to protect his face.

The intruders fled with the man’s laptop to a getaway car, which was driven to Delphin’s mother’s home in Narre Warren South.

In a raid of Kyle’s home in March 2022, police seized $4750 cash, as well as various illicit drugs.

“You should both be under no misapprehension that your offending is serious,” sentencing judge Daniel Holding told them on 8 August.

Their break-in with intent to assault or steal created a “highly volatile situation that is completely intolerable”.

Both must serve jail terms, though Delphin’s offending and prior criminal history were more serious, he said.

Judge Holding noted Kyle grew up in deprivation in Cranbourne, with an alcoholic single mother. He left home in his teens, experienced homelessness and started using drugs at 13.

Many of his prior criminal offences were a result of his chronic drug addiction and didn’t result in convictions.

He’d not offended since the break-in, and was successfully engaging with a CISP bail program, which tackled his drug abuse.

Noting Kyle was relatively young, his continued rehabilitation was the best way to protect the community, Judge Holding said.

Delphin grew up in an “awful” violent, dysfunctional home with drug-addicted parents in Castlemaine. He started using drugs from his parents, had only a primary-school education and hadn’t held a meaningful job.

As an adult, he’d used a variety of drugs, including sniffing paint, and had suffered druginduced psychoses.

The father-of-seven had never undergone drug detoxification or residential rehab. At

Close shave for breast cancer survivor

Berwick resident and breast cancer survivor

Sandra Forsyth has thanked a number of local businesses, friends and family members for supporting her fundraiser, which has raised close to $3000 for the Cancer Council.

Surrounded by friends and family, she shaved her head at her Berwick home on Sunday 23 July to honour cancer survivors and battlers who have lost their hair.

Mrs Forsyth was diagnosed last November with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCSI), which is the presence of abnormal cells inside a milk duct in the breast. The process from discov-

ering the cancer to treatment was relatively quick, having to go into X-rays and have titanium markers inserted into her breast before receiving radiation treatment.

Each radiation treatment lasted 20 minutes and involved her having to inhale deeply and hold her breath for 30 seconds to keep her heart raised above the radiation zone.

Mrs Forsyth said she was grateful for all donations, especially the two $500 donations from anonymous donors.

“Thank you to my family and friends who have given so generously to help raise this

money,“ she said. “My goal was $2000, I have exceededthatandamnowuptonearly$3000.“

Mrs Forsyth also thanked a number of local businesses and individuals for their help in supporting the fundraising event, including Hallam’s 3 Tier Food Services, Fyna Foods and Yumi’s Quality Foods and Dandenong South’s Selective Meat Traders, as well as Darrell Lea.

Mrs Forsyth said she hoped her journey inspired others to get checked for breast cancer early.“Please, men and women, do a breast examination, get a mammogram and don’t put it off,“ she said. “The alternative is death.“

the time of offending, he was on daily doses of GHB, ice and dope.

Delphin had served several jail stints for burglary and dishonesty offences.

At the time of the break-in, he was on a court-supervised drug-treatment order –which was “clearly not effective”.

His rehabilitation prospects were “guarded to say the least”, but not extinguished, Judge Holding said.

He was at risk of institutionalisation if he couldn’t remain drug-free, according to a psychologist report.

Delphin was jailed for up to four years and eight months, with a three-year-and-threemonth non-parole period. His term includes 494 days in pre-sentence detention.

Kyle was jailed for 419 days – which had already been served in remand – plus an 18-month community corrections order with drug and mental health treatment.

Berwick resident Sandra Forsyth has raised close to $3000 for the Cancer Council by shaving her head. Picture: SUPPLIED

Second chance for cats

By Emily Laing

Cranbourne local Daniela Maslen has been giving cats and kittens a second chance at life for over a decade, and this weekend you could do the same.

Daniela’s not-for-profit, home-run cat rescue effort, 2nd Chance Cat Rescue, is holding an adoption day this Saturday 12 August.

From 11am-2pm, lovable cats and kittens will be available on Cemetery Road, Cranbourne via Daniela’s adoption bus.

Not all cats and kittens will attend on the day, so if you find a 2nd Chance rescue that swells your heart, you can fill out an application form or contact Daniela through the rescue’s website or Facebook page to arrange a meet and greet.

Daniela has been running 2nd Chance Cat Rescue for 12 years, moving to a larger property with a large double story shed for the rescues five years ago, after she was awarded a $50,000 government grant.

Her love for cats started in her youth, but not having her own cat until her 30s, Daniela said the rescue is a way for her to “really make up“ for her years without feline companionship.

“I just love them,“ she said.

“You can just communicate with them without language and they’re so much fun.“

Since the cost of living and housing crisis began burning the hip pockets of Melbourne residents, Daniela reported getting 10-20 emails each day from people wanting to surrender their cats to her rescue.

With nearly 30,000 followers on Facebook, 2nd Chance Cat Rescue has become a touchstone for people wanting to lighten their financial burdens by removing pets from the equation.

As a not-for-profit, Daniela relies solely on her own money and that of donations to keep her rescues fed, healthy and vet treated.

Unfortunately, the rising costs have meant less donations from individuals and businesses who usually help to keep the rescue afloat.

“We don’t make money from adopting the cats out,“ she said.

“We were getting donations and donations of food but that has dried out too.

“We normally get around $6000-$8000

THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN

Thumbs down

On the lack of state supplied indicator fluid.

Thumbs down

Street lights added to newly completed roadworks seem to be added more for good looks than as a safety measure - as none of them are ever turned on. Absolute joke.

Thumbs down

Still no street lights at new road works on Clyde Rd!

Thumbs up

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

Thumbs down

To the road maintenance that never gets done properly.

Thumbs down

To the recent decision for Hampton Park Hill to go ahead. This area has suffered enough.

worth of donations from Pet Circle, but that has totally dried out and other rescue groups aren’t getting it anymore too.“

At one stage, Daniela recalled having over 500 cats in one year, and with the inundation of rescue requests, she may soon find herself hitting another bleak milestone.

“The hardest cats to adopt out are white and black cats,“ Daniela said.

“The easiest are long fluffy kittens and grey cats.“

The adoption process at 2nd Chance requires an application form to be filled out and a meet and greet to ensure suitability.

“We make sure that they are actually suitable,“ she said.

“Some cats are really hard to rehome because people choose the cat because it looks good.

“I say come around and have a look and then a lot of people go home with a totally different cat which is much better.“

Daniela said the adoption needs to be taken seriously, that potential owners need to understand what they are signing up for- while cats are affectionate, soft and sweet, they require owners willing to put in the work.

“Cats are so sensitive,“ Daniela said.

“And it’s a relationship, you have to get to know each other and take it slowly.

“Some cats are real smoochy and you have no problem, but others want to know ’Where am I going?’, ’What are my rules?’ so they can adjust themselves.“

Daniela had a few tips on how to make the adoption process run smoothly after bringing a new furry family member home.

Keeping the kitty litter clean, and changing the type of litter used (from crystals to pellets, for example) can make a huge difference in cat’s toileting behaviours and prevent unwanted urination on furniture and carpets.

Keeping water and food fresh will help to keep your cat happy and healthy.

Giving cats the space to get to know their new environment and get settled without being overbearing or demanding their attention and affection is imperative for building a relationship of trust.

“We want the best home and for them to have a good quality of life,“ Daniela said.

Myuna Farm powers up

Casey Council recently installed a state-ofthe-art wind turbine and battery storage system at Myuna Farm in Doveton.

The first of its kind in Casey, this significant addition to Myuna Farm’s environmental infrastructure would bolster the solar and community electric vehicle charger already in place on the farm.

Casey Council chief executive Glenn Patterson said the council was thrilled to introduce the wind turbine at Myuna Farm.

“This installation represents our continued commitment to environmental sustainability, and we hope it inspires community members to embrace renewable energy solutions,” he said.

“Between 2004 and 2023, energy saving projects at the farm have reduced greenhouse gas emissions by more than 84 per cent and importantly, halved the energy bills despite rising energy costs.

“Key energy saving projects have included real time electricity monitoring, LED lighting upgrades, insulation upgrades, mechanical servicing, 30kW solar photovoltaic system and Casey’s first community electric vehicle charger.“

Mr Patterson said the wind turbine would “continue to decrease Myuna Farm’s reliance on traditional energy sources“, further supporting energy cost reductions.

“This, in turn, allows Myuna Farm to allocate more resources towards the care and

Thumbs down

To all “local” mp’s that don’t respond to their constituents or don’t try and help out with issues in their communities.

Thumbs down

To the rising cost of food. Even poor people food is too expensive these days.

Thumbs up

To Maccas for making reliably decent coffee.

conservation of the farm animals and the enhancement of its popular educational programs,“ he said.

With more than 180,000 visitors to the farm a year, the wind turbine would be accompanied by interactive displays and informational signage to provide visitors with insights into the installation.

The 5kW wind turbine stands on a locally made 17 metre tower and is one of the most efficient small wind turbines available.

The system feeds into the current solar system and will save more than 10 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions each year, delivering on Myuna Farm’s vision of creating a sustainable future for generations to come.

Shopping local pays

We have a winner in the Berwick Star News Shop Local & Win competition!

Over the past six weeks readers have entered for their chance to win a $50 gift voucher from local businesses advertising on our special Shop local &Win page. Drawn at random from hundreds of entries, our winner Carol Fletcher from Upper Beaconsfield has won over $500 in prizes from some great local businesses. Congratulations to all entrants.

winter’s day at Wilson Botanic Park in Berwick. 349842 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Casey Council chief executive Glenn Patterson, Casey Council administrators chair Noelene Duff PSM, Myuna Farm manager Steve Hill and Casey Council administrator Miguel Belmar.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Daniela and Ed. 352761

Picture: EMILY LAING

Study engineering locally

Aspiring engineers in Melbourne’s South East will now be able to study closer to home with Federation University Australia to start delivering engineering courses from its Berwick campus.

From 2024, four undergraduate engineering courses will be offered at Berwick, providing a pipeline of local graduates to meet the growing demands of the burgeoning engineering and manufacturing sector.

The four-year Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical) (Hons); Bachelor of Engineering (Mining) (Hons); Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical and Information Engineering) (Hons); and Bachelor of Engineering (Civil) (Hons) courses have been designed in collaboration with industry leaders to ensure graduates have the skills they need to thrive in current and future industries.

Federation University’s Executive Dean, Institute of Innovation, Science and Sustainability, Professor Iven Mareels said the University is pleased to provide for local students.

“As a university embedded in the SouthEast region of Melbourne, we are working with industry to help address local workforce needs and give students the opportunity to study closer to home, where they can maintain ties to their community and family,“ Professor Mareels said.

“We are delighted to be launching these engineering programs at Berwick, supporting

students with the knowledge and real-world experience they need to achieve their career aspirations.”

Students will have the opportunity to experience a rich program of work integrated learning through an industry placement program

of 12 weeks supporting students to gain the skills employers want so they can step straight into the next phase of their career when they graduate.

It comes as Federation University rolls out its co-operative education model, where all courses from 2025 will be designed, developed and delivered in partnership with industry, and where students will receive work integrated learning to give them a valuable head-start in their career.

South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance chief executive Honi Walker said Federation University’s development is crucial to industry.

“Federation University’s 2024 launch of engineering programs at the Berwick campus represents a crucial step in developing a skilled and innovative future workforce for the manufacturing industry, driving the region’s growth and competitiveness in the global market,“ Ms Walker said.

“These engineering courses across a range of manufacturing and construction industries will play a crucial role in shaping the incoming workforce of our sector.“

For more information about the engineering courses, visit federation.edu.au/engineering or head along to Federation’s Open Day on Sunday, 13 August 10am – 2pm.

Overcoming barriers for women to get active

By Matthew Sims

Federation University’s Berwick campus open day will be on Sunday 13 August.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Learning opportunities

Campus tours, course advice and connection with employers will be among the highlights at this year’s Federation University Australia open day.

Prospective students and their families will get an up-close look at the state-of-theart learning facilities, student spaces and accommodation at the university’s Berwick campus when the university opens its doors on Sunday, 13 August from 10am to 2pm.

The tour will allow students and their families to make important early connections with industry representatives and draw on the expertise of local employers who are partnering with Federation through its co-operative education model to co-design, co-develop and co-deliver courses that give students real-world training to ensure they can step into the next phase of their career when they graduate.

Connected Libraries and the Level Crossing Removal Project are among the industry partners sharing their knowledge and advice at the Berwick campus.

The open day will also be an opportunity for prospective students to receive personalised advice about industry placement op-

portunities, the courses that align with their goals, pathway options, study support and the university’s scholarships of which there were more than 200 on offer this year.

Federation University vice chancellor and president Professor Duncan Bentley said the co-operative education model helps students get realistic experience from day one.

“Federation is helping students to realise their career dreams from the moment they enrol, by forging early connections with employers through events like open day and supporting real- world experience throughout their studies,” he said.

“We are delighted to be welcoming the community to our beautiful campuses to share everything we have to offer as we embark on exciting changes through the rollout of our co-operative education model.

“Through this model, from 2025, all courses will be designed, developed and delivered in partnership with industry, and students will receive work integrated learning to give them a valuable head-start in their career.”

For more details, visit www.federation. edu.au/openday

Federation

University

and Casey Council have united to support South East women to become more physically active.

Through a series of workshops, researchers received a snapshot of the barriers to physical activity faced by local women and invited them to co-design sport and recreation solutions.

Participants identified the top four barriers to physical activity as cost, not having enough time, being unsure of what was available to them, and domestic and care responsibilities.

More than 75 women attended the workshops and researchers looked at survey data from 46 of the participants.

The participants ranged in age from 18 to 71, with 28 per cent with children under five years old and more than half from households that speak a language other than English.

On average, the women reported 107 minutes of leisure-time physical activity per week, below the recommendation of 150 minutes.

The research project brought together research expertise from Federation University’s Collaborative Evaluation Research Group (CERG) and Physical Activity and Sport Insights (PASI).

Federation University sport management senior lecturer Dr Meghan Casey said after unpacking the barriers women were experiencing, researchers asked them how they would design a program for themselves and the other women who were like them.

“It’s well known that women generally have

lower physical activity participation rates than men, but the City of Casey is also a growth area and has a culturally diverse population, and we know their participation rates are lower,“ she said.

“By having the women involved in the process of designing how the programs will look, how they should run, how much they should cost and these aspects, this will show us if that makes a difference in changing their behaviour.“

Among the women-designed physical activities were learn to swim classes, groupbased exercises like yoga and Zumba, walking groups and social sports with a focus on affordability and child-friendly or childcare options.

The City of Casey has started looking at ways to implement the participants’ recommendations and once programs are rolled out, researchers would assess their effectiveness in getting more local women physically active later this year.

Casey Council community life acting director Angie Peresso said the council would develop and implement recreation programs to address the current barriers women and girls face across Casey.

“Council is proud to have partnered with Federation University on this research project to gain a better understanding of the physical activity needs of women and girls of Casey and the barriers they face when trying to exercise and connect to their local communities through recreation,“ she said.

The Berwick campus will provide four-year bachelor degrees in engineering. 351488

Picture: SUPPLIED

Spiritual stalwart bows out

By Matthew Sims

Narre Warren Christian Church co-founder Keith Vethaak has always believed there was hope and love to be found in the most unlikely of places.

Surrounded by members of the community during the Monday evening service on 7 August, he spoke about about a young man he met as a pastor at the Reformed Church of Kingston in Tasmania about 40 years ago.

“The boy had cerebral palsy and he couldn’t talk,“ he said.

“The first thing he wrote was “I love God and I want to know more about him.“

Mr Vethaak has now retired as a full-time pastor at the Narre Warren Christian Church, which has been operating as the Transit Soup Kitchen and Food Support service since 2009.

The Reformed Churches of Dandenong and Doveton founded the Narre Warren Christian Church in 1986 by as a ’street level’ outreach church with the mission of providing a safe place and a healing community for all, but especially for those who are doing it tough.

Mr Vethaak said the church had transitioned fully to offering food support services about two years ago.

“We don’t hold Sunday services any more,“ he said.

“We want to have a chance to help anybody that walks in,“ he said.

“We want people to come here that need a helping hand.“

Mr Vethaak said on top of feeding locals in need, the service has also provided social support for people.

“It was an eye-opening thing to see the loneliness factor,“ he said.

“Some of them were just so lonely.“

Born in Holland in 1950, Mr Vethaak migrated to Queensland in 1955 and started his religious studies in 1969 at the Reformed Theological College in Geelong, attaining a Bachelor of Divinity in 1974.

After a short stint studying at L’Abri in The Netherlands, he bgan his internship in Christchurch, before being ordained at the Reformed Church of Kingston in 1977.

Mr Vethaak then moved to become the first pastor of the Narre Warren Christian Church, which originally began with a congregation of about 60 people.

“At one point, we’d grown to about 200,“ he said.

“It was always what I wanted to do, touching the lives of people who needed it,“ he said.

The church moved into its current building on Webb Street in June of 1995.

“Although it was a basic factory without a ceiling, it was close to the station and fitted our vision of being an outreach to marginalised folk well,“ Mr Vethaak said.

“We developed a close relationship with (the former) Narre Warren Station Primary School and ran after-school programs in the new building.“

Over the years, Mr Vethaak said the community’s need for food support became clearer than its need for religious support.

“Transit began in March 2009 after we became aware that Dandenong agencies were being overwhelmed with demand from folk in the Narre Warren area,“ he said.

“We started with a meal each Wednesday, a pool table and other activities.

“Numbers rapidly increased from about a dozen to over 50 each week.“

Mr Vethaak said while people often call Transit a church, the service was welcome for people of all faiths.

“We try to be very respectful of everybody,“ he said.

The service receives 15 pallets from Foodbank, OzHarves and Woolworths each week, with about 1500 people registered and 600 families accessing food relief each week.

More than 90 people visit the Transit during their Monday and Wednesday services thanks to the help of more than 100 volunteers ranging in age from 12 to 83.

Transit offers a free three-course meal from 5pm every Monday with groceries available for collection from 6pm to 7pm, with a free laundry service also available via charity Orange Sky, while a free three-course meal is also available from noon every Wednesday with groceries available from 1pm to 2.30pm and

food support is available from 1pm to 4pm on Thursdays.

Mr Vethaak said the service had seen more and more people seek support as the cost of living rises, especially in the wake of the COVID lockdowns.

“It’s pretty scary,“ he said.

Mr Vethaak said the main philosophy of Transit came from the words of Australian Presbyterian minister John Flynn OBE, who spoke about looking after all elements of what gives mankind hope.

“You need to feed your body, but you also need to feed your soul,“ he said.

Volunteer Dot O’Neill said each service usually attracted about six new people.

“It means that some people can survive,“ she said.

“It’s also a meeting place and a social thing for some people.“

Mr Vethaak said he was confident in his replacement, Casey City Church pastor Malcolm McQuie, who said the job had been “challenging“ yet rewarding so far.

“I come to work with a smile and I go home with a smile,“ he said.

At the age of 73, Mr Vethaak said he was looking forward to spending more time with his wife Tjitske and his 13 grandchildren, despite still acting as the secretary and public officer.

“I am still preaching in various churches many Sundays each month but my wife is happy to have me home a bit more during the week as we had fallen way behind on our property maintenance,“ he said.

“We also need more time for our 13 grandchildren ranging in age from one to 16.“

Mr Vethaak said he was proud of his achievements in celebrating and supporting the hidden members of the community.

“I feel really blessed that I have been able to serve the most marginal people,“ he said.

“I believe every human being is of infinite value.“

For more information about Transit, visit transitoutreach.org.au.

Retired pastor Keith Vethaak (second from left) is enjoying stepping back at the helm of Narre Warren’s Transit Soup Kitchen and Food Support service. 351788 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

Keith Vethaak has handed over the day-to-day duties to pastor Malcolm McQuie. 351788

Keith Vethaak has lived a life of serving the community and individuals in need. 351788

Volunteer Lyn is one of the 100-plus volunteers who help run Transit’s Monday and Wednesday meal service. 351788

Daryl and Paul were among the congregation at Transit’s Monday evening service, enjoying a chat and a meal together. 351788

Keith Vethaak and Malcolm McQuie. 351788

Group continues to grow

Narre Warren South’s Oakgrove Community Centre was alive and bustling on Wednesday 2 August with plenty of dancing, singing and games as part of the second anniversary celebrations of Oakgrove’s women’s group.

Founded with a vision to create a safe and nurturing space where women could come together, share their experiences, and support each other, the group has continued to grow in its volume and scope, undertaking a number of community outreach programs.

Centre president David Haynes joined group members, committee members and other community members to celebrate the milestone and recognise significant supporters, both within and outside of the group.

Centre manager Mary Almaraj said the event was a way to show their appreciation for the community’s support for the group over the past two years.

“Thank you to our sponsor Bendigo Bank and to Narre Warren South P-12 College assistant principal Laura Sammut for giving an inspiring speech,“ she said.

“We also thank City of Casey for their continued support.“

Ms Almaraj said the event was a “fantastic“ success.

“The event saw women from many different cultures come together to empower and uplift one another, fostering strong & meaningful community connections,“ she said.

“We are hoping to see many more years of growth and success.“

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

To RSVP by Monday 31 July, contact the Oakgrove Community Centre at office@oakgrovecc.org.au or phone 9704 2781 between 9am to 3pm on Monday to Friday.

The Oakgrove Community Centre’s women group is reliant on a core group of members and staff. 349679 Pictures: GARY SISSONS

Oakgrove Community Centre president David Haynes joined Bendigo Bank Narre Warren South branch representatives Amanda and Sonia. 349679

Manasi showed off her Bollywood dancing skills during the event. 349679

Oakgrove Community Centre finance officer Girija Nedumaran and president David Haynes. 349679

Narre Warren South P-12 College assistant principal Laura Sammut, Oakgrove Community Centre president David Haynes and Bendigo Bank Narre Warren South branch representative Amanda. 349679

Oakgrove Community Centre project and event co-ordinator Anu Ravindernath, president David Haynes and manager Mary Amalraj. 349679

Oakgrove Community Centre manager Mary Amalraj and president David Haynes. 349679

The event welcomed a number of local women. 349679

Students show off styles

Students were excited to celebrate “Crazy Hair and Sock Day” last week at Tooradin Primary School.

“I love Crazy Hair Day because I get to eat lollies out of my hair,“ Tooradin PS student Josh said.

Students, staff and parents came up with amazing hair creations to impress and astound.

“I like it because we get to see everyone’s different hair and what they come up with from home,“ Tooradin PS student Paige said.

There were many interesting hair displays, including cupcake buns, beach themed waves and mermaid tails, balloons ready to float hair up and away, garden landscapes complete with resident insects, lego structures, Eiffel Towers, braids, birds nests, ice cream cones and much, much more.

“Everyone got to do their hair in the way they wanted and everyone looked different,“

Tooradin PS student Evie said.

The hair sculptures made use of pipe cleaners, cups, sparkles, coloured hair spray, fake eyeballs and a great deal of time and creative expression.

“There is such an excited energy around the school on Crazy Hair Day and everyone puts in such a fantastic effort getting involved,“

Tooradin PS Teacher Rosie Scott said.

This year the school welcomed the inclusion of Crazy Socks to support students to be involved in a way that they feel comfortable with there was certainly a most amazing array of extraordinary socks on display.

“This is a much anticipated day across the school and a wonderful celebration of diversity and imagination for everyone involved,“ Assistant Principal Rachel Davis said.

“As the day comes to a close we all begin to wonder ’What will next years creations look like?’“

Tender process kicks off for largest management contract

Casey Council is encouraging suitable businesses to apply to manage and operate seven of Casey’s leisure facilities, which have a combined annual visitation of about three million people.

The contract is the largest management contract in Casey’s history and one of the biggest leisure management contracts in Australia.

The council announced last year its plans to streamline the management and operation of its leisure facilities to maximise health and wellbeing opportunities for the Casey community.

The decision followed a comprehensive review of its facilities, which are currently managed by three separate partners across four separate contracts or service agreements, leading to operational inefficiencies.

City of Casey chief executive Glenn Patterson said as part of the review, various management models were assessed, however it was determined that a single aligned contract, with the option to separately manage Olive Road Sporting Complex and The Shed, would deliver the highest benefit.

“Thousands of people visit Council’s leisure facilities every day and increasingly, our venues are also being chosen to host national

and international events,“ he said.

“Having a number of different management contracts, with a number of different providers, is not efficient for Council and means the experience for users of those facilities is not always consistent.

“Our leisure facilities are highly valued by the community and play a vital role in improving the overall physical, social and mental wellbeing of our residents and visitors.“

The seven centres that will be included in the contract are Casey ARC, Casey RACE, Doveton Pool in the Park, Casey Stadium, Endeavour Hills Leisure Centre, Olive Road Sporting Complex and The Shed Skatepark. Combined, these facilities have an annual turnover of about $20 million.

A request for tender process commenced on Saturday 5 August and includes multiple options for the market to respond to.

This will enable the council to compare and review different approaches to management and operations of each centre and assess responses on a like-for-like basis.

It is expected that the new contract will begin from July 1 2024.

For more information or to download the tender document, visit www.tenderlink. com/casey

Charlotte and Chloe. 348600 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

Archer. 348600

Amber and Ava. 348600

Jaxon and Wynter. 348600

By Emily Laing

“Fighting stroke together“ is the mission phrase of this year’s National Stroke Week at the Stroke Foundation, and one that stroke survivor Toni Arfaras knows well.

National Stroke Week, running from 7-13 August, aims to bring awareness to a disease affecting nearly half a million Australians.

A stroke is the result when blood supply to the brain is interrupted, wither through an artery being blocked, or bursting.

A stroke happens every 19 minutes in Australia and is 17 per cent more likely to affect regional Australians than metro.

The effects are lifelong and impact everything from a person’s independence, to cognition, emotional responses, muscle spasticity and communication.

Narre Warren stroke survivor Toni Arfaras didn’t know she had suffered a stroke until nearly a week after it happened.

In 2013, at the age of 46,Toni had“very nondescriptive symptoms“ when her stroke hit.

“I’d got up in the mornig to go to the toilet and wash my hands, and as I’ve gone to walk out I felt myself going to the side, falling to the side,“ she said.

“I don’t remember passing out or anything, but I had this sensation of looking down on myself.

“I just sort of thought, you know, I’m just not well, it’s school holidays and I’m a teacher.“

Toni brushed her symptoms off as being related to burn out, or lingering symptoms of a bout of gastro she had endured.

“Afterwards I was really tired so all I wanted to do was sleep,“ Toni said.

“And then I just felt like my head was too heavy for my neck.“

Later that week, Toni visited her osteopath, who performed routine tests upon hearing of Toni’s odd symptoms.

Toni’s responses were normal, but when she still wasn’t getting better days later she knew it was time to see a GP.

“They did the same tests that the osteo had done,“ Toni said.

“And I’d actually developed some weakness and loss of sensation in my face.“

Toni was sent for an MRI and the results came back with the life changing diagnosis of a stroke.

Rehab wasn’t an option for Toni, as she could still walk and talk.

But this doesn’t mean her stroke was mild, or less impactful than those who go through the rehab process.

“It was very much for me a case of finding my own way through different things,“ she said.

“A lot of people that have had a stroke have what we call hidden disabilities, so you can’t see the effect.

“I’ve been assessed as never able to work, I can’t drive, I can’t go anywhere by myself.“

Alongside the loss of her independence, Toni has also encountered issues with her maths and spelling, sensory overload, communication and decision making.

“When the sensory overload kicks in that’s when I start losing the ability to speak and the ability to understand what people are saying to me,“ she said.

“I also lose my left hand side, so I start struggling to walk and I can actually go blind in my left eye.“

The episodes aren’t constant, and Toni explained she can go for a “12 kilometre bush walk“ one day, perfectly fine, but then be knocked on her heels “if the wind blows the wrong way“.

Since her initial stroke, Toni has experienced three transient ischaemic attackswarnings from her body that another stroke may be approaching.

“It could be within the next hour or the next five years,“ she said.

“It’s sort of a warning that something’s not right and so it’s a chance to try and change lifestyle things to prevent it from happening.“

Toni is now a Stroke Foundation Stroke Safe Volunteer, giving Stroke Safe talks at different schools, businesses and agencies to improve awareness and education around what a stroke is, what to do when someone has a stroke and how to minimise risk factors.

“You get educated, the people you are with get educated and it could save your life, save someone else’s life and help prevent disability,“ Toni said.

“Stroke is time critical, if you get to the hospital within the right time-frame to have treatment it really lowers your risk of disability.“

This is especially for non-descriptive symptoms, like Toni’s, that often miss the time critical period for treatment.

“Listen to your body, if it’s not working like it normally does, then seek advice,“ Toni said.

As well as eating healthily, exercising and reducing alcohol intake and smoking, Toni said there are other important things to keep in check to reduce your risk of stroke.

“Know your numbers,“ she said.

“What’s your blood pressure? What’s your cholesterol levels?

“The World Health Organisation says the incidence of stroke around the world could be reduced by 48 per cent if high blood pressure didn’t exist, so that is a real driving force of it.“

Artrial fibrillation, where the heart beats irregularly or fast, is also a “big indicator“ for stroke.

Toni emphasised that it is important not to wait to get on top of managing risk factors.

“Stroke doesn’t discriminate, it doesn’t matter what age you are,“ Toni said.

“I would have thought it was an old person’s disease, but there are 600 child strokes a year in Australia and babies can be born having had a stroke in-utero.

“It traverses the whole gamut of ages.“

For those who are in the life-after-stroke stage, Toni said utilising sources like the Stroke Foundation can make a world of difference.

“Recovery is ongoing, it doesn’t stop,“ Toni said.

“I always say to people to go to the Stroke Foundation website- there’s various resources on there to help.

“You can talk to professionals, or you can go on and ask questions and other stroke survivors or carers will answer those questions“

Connecting with someone who has had a stroke gives you a recovery role model to look up to as you progress on your recovery journey, according to Toni.

She also said it’s important for carers, friends and family to get support, because stroke has a “ripple effect“ of impact.

“It’s not just the survivor that’s affected,“ Toni said.

“It’s the family, the friends, the workplace, the community.“

ToniArfaras. 352763

Picture:EMILYLAING

Our first Australian retirement village with premium aged care is coming to Cranbourne North

Summerset Cranbourne North is a modern village with resort-style facilities that will redefine retirement living. At Summerset, we offer a full range of living options that haven’t been widely available in Australia until now. Choose the style of home that suits your level of independence, with the peace of mind that there will be a modern aged care home onsite.

Located just minutes away from the local golf club and the gorgeous Cranbourne Botanical Gardens, Summerset Cranbourne North is conveniently located with easy access to nearby shopping centres, public reserves and the freeway allowing for easy commuting to and from surrounding suburbs.

There is something distinctly special about the Summerset life. When you move into a Summerset retirement village, you’re not just moving to a new house – you’re joining a vibrant and welcoming community where you’ll feel completely at home.

To view plans and pricing, call the Sales Manager, Leanne Heathcote on 03 7068 5642 or visit the sales suite at 98 Mannavue Boulevard, corner of Mannavue Boulevard and Retreat Avenue

Love the life you choose

Embrace a new life today

In the quiet whispers of time passing, there lies a profound truth that we often overlook-the ephemeral nature of moments, like fleeting butterflies, flutter by, leaving us with memories etched in the sands of time.

Life’s journey is a dance of choices and opportunities, a symphony of chances that beckon us to take hold of the reins. Among these, a whisper urges us to embrace the change that awaits-a downsizer home, a sanctuary for a new chapter.

Picture it, if you will-a charming haven tucked away from the hustle and bustle, where the weight of unnecessary possessions fades away. The clutter that once weighed upon your shoulders will find solace in the arms of benevolent charity, making space for cherished treasures and memories to blossom.

In a downsizer home, time finds itself a gentle master, and moments of joy, love, and laughter are savoured like fine wine. The days of mowing vast lawns and maintaining unwieldy spaces will be replaced by a manageable sanctuary, where you’ll find more time to bask in the warmth of cherished company.

You will find a newfound sense of liberation. Letting go of the past, you’ll embrace the present with arms wide open. The shackles of maintenance yield to the freedom of exploration, travel, and adventures that await your eager heart.

Seize the day and make way for the winds of change. By choosing to downsize at Lifestyle Communities, you’ll discover the art of appreciating a life well-lived, where every day is cherished. Book the tour today. 1300 50 55 60

Embrace a new life today and downsize at Lifestyle Communities.

Taking care of business

Retirement used to be a time to kick back, relax and enjoy the fruits of your labour.

But with longer life expectancies and the increasing cost of living, many retirees are seeking ways to supplement their income and stay active. One way to achieve this is by starting a business.

This article, complied by National Seniors Australia, explores some of the reasons for starting a business and outlines the steps you might want to take.

Bear in mind that many businesses fail, and your stage of life may affect your ability to recover from that failure.

On the other hand, if your business is successful, it may affect your Age Pension or other benefits, and you could find yourself in a difficult tax situation.

Benefits

The obvious first benefit of starting a business in retirement is that supplements your savings and income. This can be especially beneficial for retirees who have not saved enough for retirement or who want to maintain a higher standard than their super and/or pension will allow.

Starting a business can also provide a sense of purpose and fulfilment. Many retirees struggle with the transition to retirement and miss the sense of accomplishment that comes with work.

Operating your own business can provide a renewed sense of purpose and energy.

Finally, it can provide an opportunity for you to pursue a passion or interest that may have been put on hold during your working years.

As always, before you commit money to any project, secure independent professional advice.

How to start

Starting a business in retirement requires careful planning and consideration. Here are some tips for building a successful business in retirement:

· Identify a niche. Start by identifying a need in the market that you can fill. Look for gaps

The power of volunteering

When the idea of retirement rolls around, some people are overjoyed by the thought of freedom, others look for the next thing they can do in their life.

Volunteering at an organisation has been proven to offer seniors great benefits for their physical and mental health, as well as social connection.

A report released by VicHealth in 2012 identified volunteering can help alleviate depression, increase satisfaction with life, lower the frequency of hospitalisation and boost a person’s ability to cope with illness.

Volunteering doesn’t only improve the health and wellbeing of the volunteer but for those who are on the receiving end, there are also undeniable benefits.

Volunteers help contribute to social change, bridge the gap between young and old, help engage people in the community and raise awareness around certain issues.

The State of Volunteering Report released by Volunteering Victoria in 2020 showed the majority of the 2.3 million people who volunteer in Victoria are over the

age of 65, totalling 78.9 per cent.

The percentage of people who volunteer when they are out of work or only work part time was highest of all employment situations at 74.4 per cent.

Programs for volunteers can range from emergency relief, opportunity shop staff members, youth support officers, animal welfare, meals-on-wheels, soup kitchens and in-school support roles for disadvantaged students.

Enjoying senior life doesn’t just have to mean travelling Australia in a caravan, it can be finally exploring that hobby or interest that has just been at the back of the mind.

Passing on knowledge, skills, expertise and wisdom may be the thing that most rewards you.

Head to the Volunteering Victoria website to find an opportunity to suit your interests, https://www.volunteeringvictoria. org.au/for-volunteers/search-for-volunteer-roles/

in the market where there is an unmet need or underserved market. For example, if you have a passion for gardening, you could start a landscaping or gardening business.

· Conduct market research. Before starting any business, it’s important to conduct market research to ensure there is demand

for your product or service. This will involve researching your competition and analysing their strengths and weaknesses. You can also use surveys and focus groups to get feedback from potential customers.

· Develop a business plan. This will involve outlining your business goals, strategies, and financial projections. A business plan is essential for securing funding and ensuring your business is sustainable.

· Secure funding. This can involve seeking investors, applying for a loan, or using your own savings. Be sure to carefully consider the financial risks and rewards.

· Leverage your experience. One of the advantages of starting a business in retirement is that you have years of experience to draw from. Leverage your experience to build a strong brand and establish yourself as an expert in your field.

· Embrace technology. Today’s businesses rely heavily on technology, so it’s important to stay up to date on the latest tools and software. This will help you stay competitive and provide a better customer experience. The main thing to remember is not to take on more than you handle. If you decide to start a business, or to do any work in your retirement, pace yourself.

Being involved in a business may make you feel good about yourself, but you’ve also earned the right to relax and smell the roses.

Disclaimer

Any links provided are for general information only and should not be taken as constituting professional advice. National Seniors is not a financial advisor. You should consider seeking independent legal, financial, taxation or other advice to check how any information provided relates to your unique circumstances.

Thebenefitsofvolunteeringareendless.

Picture:UNSPLASH

Red Cross helpers in vogue

Functional fashion was the theme of the day at the Berwick St Andrews Uniting Church Fellowship room as part of the Berwick/Upper Beaconsfield Friends of Red Cross’ annual fashion parade.

Branch member Glenys Collins said the event was a success.

“We were happy bright sun welcomed about 60 ladies, and several brave men, to watch our four ladies model the lovely Cliche Fashions,“ she said.

“Our models were Lorraine Hollow, Lorna Proctor, Julia Cho and Rev. Sue Stott-Floyd and together with the willing helpers from Berwick/Upper Beaconsfield Friends of Red Cross and the Ladies of the Friendship Group of St Andrews, we shared the parade followed by drawing of the raffle prizes and then tucked into a scrumptious lunch to round out a very enjoyable day that raised nearly $1300.“

The Friends of Red Cross group meets at 10am on the second Friday of each month.

The Friendship Group of St Andrews meets at the St Andrews Uniting Church on the third Wednesday of each month at 1pm for craft, Scrabble, other board games and afternoon tea.

For more information, contact Ms Collins on 0416 672 485 or 9768 9534.

Lorraine Hollow, Lorna Proctor, Reverend Susan Stott-Floyd and Julia Cho were the models during the event. 350225

Pictures: GARY SISSONS

Julia Cho. 350225

Fredrick from Cliche Clothing Company showing some of the items that are for sale. 350225

Lorna Proctor. 350225

About 60 people from far and wide attended the event. 350225

Lorraine Hollow. 350225

Reverend Susan Stott-Floyd. 350225

Uni gains full control

By Matthew Sims

Federation University Australia will be expanding operations at its Berwick campus after it reached agreement with Monash University for control of the site

Since commencing operations at the Berwick campus in 2017, Federation University has been leasing the facility from Monash University, which established the site in 1996.

While the previous leasing arrangement allowed Federation to deliver high quality education and research operations from the Berwick campus, having full control will allow the university to invest more into the campus and better serve the needs of the local community and businesses to deliver a pipeline of highly skilled graduates for the growing Berwick community and South East area.

Federation University vice chancellor and president Professor Duncan Bentley said the agreement will allow the university to prosper for many more years.

“Federation welcomes the signing of the agreement that sees Berwick campus finally become University property,“ he said.

“This agreement will enable us to fulfill our campus vision for Berwick and provide an expanded offering that will better serve the education needs of the community for generations to come.

“I would like to thank Monash for their support in finalising our agreement for the campus site.“

The agreement coincides with Federation University’s expansion of course offerings at its Berwick campus from 2024, with the delivery of four new engineering courses from next year alongside the existing business, education, health, I.T, science, and society and culture courses that have seen thousands of students graduate from the campus over the years.

Securing the long-term future of the Berwick campus supports Federation’s commitment to becoming Australia’s first co-operative university, where all courses will be delivered in conjunction with industry partners from 2025.

Federation University Berwick campus regional strategy and engagement director Kathy Racunica said the expansion will allow the university to provide a wider range of learning opportunities across the South East.

“Our Berwick campus has a short, yet successful history and thanks to the support of the local community, city councils and our industry partners, we have given thousands of students the opportunity to study, and ultimately establish their careers closer to home,“ she said.

“By finalising the agreement for the campus site, Federation is now able to open its doors to a larger number of students in the south-east region of Melbourne.“

For more information about the Berwick campus, visit federation.edu.au/about-us/ our-campuses/berwick

FOCUS ON … DENTAL WEEK All smiles

Dr Adam Wallace, a dental professional with over 17 years of experience, has established himself as a prominent figure in the field of dentistry. Born and raised in the vicinity of Leongatha, South Gippsland, Dr Wallace’s journey in the dental profession has been marked by academic excellence and a commitment to providing exceptional patient care.

Dr Wallace’s educational background is impressive, having completed his Dentistry and Orthodontic specialist training at the prestigious University of Melbourne. Even after graduating in 2005, he has continued to contribute to the field by lecturing, demonstrating, and examining students at his alma mater. His dedication to academics led him to pursue a Master’s degree, during which he conducted significant research on the effects of bisphosphonate use on the treatment of benign bone disease and impaired dental healing.

Throughout his career, Wallace has actively engaged in various academic roles with Melbourne University, including serving as the Clinical Practice and Specialist Areas in Dentistry (Orthodontics) Convenor for the Bachelor of Oral Health program. Additionally, he has been associated with the Australian Dental Council and is an active member of esteemed professional organisations such as the Australian Society of Orthodontists and the Australian Dental Association. He has also expanded his professional network by being a member of the American Association of Orthodontists and the World Federation of Orthodontists.

Dr Adam Wallace’s dedication to advancing the field of dentistry is evident through his ongoing research efforts. His doctoral thesis, a comprehensive study comparing the treatment outcomes of Invisalign and traditional braces, holds significant promise and is expected to be published in the near future. By contributing to the body of knowledge in orthodontics,Wallace aims to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of dental treatments, benefiting patients worldwide.

Beyond his professional achievements, Dr Adam Wallace finds solace in the tranquility of his farm located in the Strzelecki ranges. Engaging in farming activities and tending to

his animals, including Angus cattle, sheep, alpacas, and two border collie x kelpie dogs, provides him with a much-needed respite from his demanding professional commitments. Additionally, his devotion to family, particularly his two nephews, who bring immense joy to his life, highlights his commitment to maintaining a harmonious work-life balance.

Dr Adam Wallace’s remarkable journey in the dental profession exemplifies his unwavering commitment to excellence. Through his academic pursuits, patient-centered approach, and contributions to the scientific community, he has become a respected figure in dentistry. With his gentle nature and expertise, Dr Adam Wallace continues to transform lives by providing specialist care and helping patients achieve radiant smiles.

South East Orthodontics is situated at Suite 5, Level 1/18-24 Clyde Road, Berwick, phone 9330 0702.

Dr Adam Wallace.

Arts Tour Bus

Come along and indulge in a special day of art, culture and inspiration with the ’Arts Tour Bus’. Sit back and relax as we transport you to three iconic cultural centres across the south-eastBurrinja Cultural Centre, Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre, and Cardinia Cultural Centre in one not-to-miss event.

Lunch not supplied, but available for purchase at Chimes Eatery.

Bookings required: greaterdandenong.vic.gov. au/greater-dandenong-council/events/arts-tourbus

· Pick-up and drop-off point at Patrick Northeast Drive, Narre Warren, Saturday 12 August, 10am-4pm.

25 Years of Song

The Casey Choir Spring Concert is being held at the Lakeview Room in the Cardinia Cultural Centre on Lakeside Boulevard in Pakenham on Sunday 27 August from 2pm. Songs from shows, from around the world and from Australia with guest artists Out of Hand. A little bit of everything. Music to suit everyone.

· Tickets: cardinia.sales.ticketsearch.com/ sales/salesevent/107682

Australian Poetry Slam Heat

Are you the next Australian Poetry Slam Champion?

This is your call to listen, watch and cheer.

Australian Poetry Slam pops up stages near you. The door is open. The mic is on.

Push into the crowd and find your spot.

Audience! You may be chosen as a judge. Poets! You have two minutes to spit, howl, dance, whisper and dream out-loud. Perform your original work; no props, no costumes, no music.

Bunjil Place, Thursday 17 August from 6pm and Friday 18 August from 7.45pm.

· Tickets: tickets.bunjilplace.com.au/overview/8716

Dad’s Little Builders

Build a woodwork project with your children. Meet other dads and grandfathers. Mondays (during school terms) at the Arbourlea Family and Community Centre in 75 Wheelers Park Drive on Cranbourne North from 6pm to 7.30pm.

While the sessions are free, registration is essential.

· Email dadsmatter@casey.vic.gov.au

Hiccup

It’s a perfect, balmy night in the outback. A sleep-deprived camper, a cheeky quokka and an emu with a penchant for creating wild inventions, awake to discover that a koala has come down with a stubborn and ear-shatteringly loud case of the hiccups.

The three embark on an epic journey through the night that sees them frantically eat, sing and invent their way towards a cure before the sun comes up.

Hiccup is a hilarious rocking musical extravaganza about working together, finding friendship

Casey Pet Expo 2023

Pet lovers: You’ll be barking mad if you (and your furry friend) miss the 2023 Casey Pet Expo!

Set for an exciting year, pet lovers to this year’s event can expect to wolf down some tasty treats, roar in laughter at the exciting roving entertainment and shake their tail feathers with joy at the live music.

There will also be an abundance of exciting market stalls, showcasing the latest in pet products, such as food, clothing and unique

and how to, once and for all, stop the hiccups.

Bunjil Place, Tuesday 22 August at 10am, 12.30pm and 2.30pm and Wednesday 23 August at 10am and noon.

· Tickets: tickets.bunjilplace.com.au/overview/8200

Littlefoot & Company’s Spoken

Word Night

These nights are for all types of performances; spoken word artists, story tellers, musicians, comedians and even first time performers!

If you’re interested in spoken word but haven’t been to one of the events, come down and check it out.

You’ll see artists, storytellers, poets, musicians, comedians and first time performers in a friendly and welcoming environment.

Whether you want to take to the stage yourself or just hang out and enjoy the vibes, all are welcome.

Registration for open mic spots are free and will be available on the night, but if you’re interested in performing you can also contact the event organisers at littlefootandcompany@gmail.com.

Thursday 28 September from 7.45pm, Thursday 26 October from 7.45pm and Thursday 30 November 2023 from 7.45pm.

· Tickets:tickets.bunjilplace.com.au/8305/8317

Weekly badminton

Badminton for ladies or retired.

All welcome.

· Mondays 7pm-9pm and Wednesdays 12pm2.30pm at Hallam Badminton Club, Frawley

accessories to make your non-human bestie stand out from the pack!

With no need to book, you can just head to Wilson Botanic Park’s iconic amphitheatrewith or without your pet - to join the action!

Wilson Botanic Park is a animal friendly space, we ask that all pets brought into the park are kept on leads.

Expression of Interest is currently open. Interested stallholders please register below.

· Saturday 26 August from 11am to 2pm at the Wilson Botanic Park in Berwick.

Road Recreation Reserve; $5. 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

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, Se-

landra Blvd, Clyde North on Tuesdays 1pm2pm and Wednesdays 7:30pm-8:30pm

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.

$96 per term (8 weeks).

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

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

Creative art collaboration

Two South East artists are showcasing their talents in interpreting natural beauty in a new South Eastern Contemporary Art Network (SECAN) exhibition.

The ’Red Earth’ and ’Do You See What I See?’ exhibitions are open at Gate 6 Gallery in Akoonah Park each weekend in August between 10am and 4pm.

Local artists Elma Young and Janine Farinski-Ryan have known each other for nearly 30 years and have always shared a love for nature and art.

They photograph similar things - the discoloration in rust, tree sap, squiggly bark, cracks in the earth and the wind in tree canopies.

However, their approaches to how they use these photographs are different.

Young photographs, then identifies, cleans, dries, strips and dissects before sketching and planning a creative piece.

Farinski-Ryan photographs, then digitally crops, flips and enlarges sections of a photo

before beginning her paintings.

Farinski-Ryan said she was inspired by the Red Centre’s views of“endless skies and monumental formations amongst a palette of warm orange, pinks, deep reds and sapphire blues.“

“Red Earth was created after a fabulous trip to Uluru where l collected an abundance of photographic reference material,“ she said.

’Do You See What I See?’ is a collaborative exhibition showcasing Young’s sculptural weaving and Farinski-Ryan’s painting and photography works depicting real and imagined ’creature spirits’.

SECAN is a local art group of about 40 members, which has been operating now for 10 years out of a gallery space and studio in Berwick’s Akoonah Park.

The group puts on a new exhibition each month, with free entry for the public and completely manned by its members on a voluntary basis.

For more information on the group and upcoming exhibitions, visit www.secan.com.au.

South East artists Janine Farinski-Ryan and Elma Young are showcasing their works as part of two exhibitions running throughout August at Akoonah Park’s Gate 6 Gallery. Picture: SUPPLIED

Picture: GENERIC

Pupils’ athletic

Brentwood Park Primary School’s pupils received a close look into what it takes to be a para-athlete from running star Reece Langdon.

The T38 para world record holder over 5000m visited the school on Friday 28 July as part of the Victorian Institute of Sport’s (VIS) ‘Be Fit. Be Well’ program, which has been running for almost 30 years and encourages primary and secondary school students to stay active and lead a healthy lifestyle.

In December 2002, at the age of 6, Langdon started getting severe headaches, so his parents took him to hospital.

He soon lost his ability to talk and walk and became almost completely paralysed.

They discovered he had severe streptococcal which led to a virus, which attacked his cerebellum and was later diagnosed with cerebellitis.

Langdon gradually relearnt how to walk and talk, but was left with permanent ataxia, coordination impairment, temperature regulation issues, and general weakness on the left side of his body. Despite his health issues, he still loved to run and running two kilometres to the letterbox at his family’s farm in Goulburn was how he began his journey in athletics.

Langdon always trained and competed with able-bodied athletes, until he was encouraged by close friends to go through the para-athlete classification process.He started the process in 2021 and in February 2022, he was officially classified a T38 para-athlete, immediately setting Australian open T38 800m and 1500m records.

Langdon headlined the National Championships in April 2023, racing to a new T38 para world record over 5000m - obliterating the previous mark of 15:00.42 by Canada’s Nate Riech, rewriting history with his 14:47.56 performance in the 5000m B race. In June 2023 he was named in his first Australian team, where he competed at the 2023 World Para Athletics

Championships, returning with a silver medal. VIS community engagement co-ordinator

Amy McMahon said the ’Be Fit. Be Well’ program featured interactive and inspirational

The South East Business Conference aims to connect and advocate for Victoria’s south east as Australia’s future business hub.

Highly respected speakers: Bernard Salt AM, Simon McKeon AO, Carolyn Creswell and Todd Trimble will share stories and insights to inspire connectivity.

presentations from elite athletes across a number of fields and disciplines.

“The program helps to promote physical activity and its links to wellbeing,“ she said.

“Key topics are tailored for specific school year levels and include motivation, resilience, goal setting, coping with pressure, health and nutrition.“

Para-athleteReeceLangdonspoketoBrentwoodParkPrimarySchoolpupilsabouthisjourney.

Picture:SUPPLIED

THE LOWDOWN Q&A

Tell us a fun fact about yourself!

Many who I see daily won’t know this one about me but it’s right there plain to see. I have two different coloured eyes. It’s a condition called heterochromia. The best part, the colour can change daily.

What do you love the most about your job?

The people! Having the opportunity to work alongside amazing people who are growing, learning and discovering an inner confidence makes me so proud. Watching their commitment to learn new things and giving things a go is inspiring and I am so proud to have a part in their journey. I am also so proud to be able to break down the stigma of what inclusion means to so many within our community and building awareness and acceptance around those in our community living with a disability. My job is making a difference in peoples lives and absolutely nothing can beat that. I love that the Amstel Club were so open to providing trailblazing opportunities to build inclusion programmes within the hospitality setting.

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

Most definitely would be a superb fairy wren. Just look at the striking blue colour the males have not to mention the freedom they have to fly and explore beautiful nature parklands are grassed areas. One of the most beautiful animals I know.

What would your last meal be?

One that I didn’t cook myself. I think it would be a really nice simple margarita pizza on a sourdough base, cooked in a woodfire oven. I would make sure that there was a nice cocktail to accompany it.

What was your most memorable moment?

The birth of my children was my most memorable moment. That feeling of knowing that a whole new adventure was about to begin and life was going to look so different and I will

with Amstel Group inclusion manager Jo Muir

to act themselves and be accepted by society no matter their differences. Hopefully that is something that I can impact on some small way.

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

Walt Disney, Princess Diana, My Pa, Dylan Alcott, Dr. Russell Barkley and Julia Gillard.What an inspiring group of changemakers. What are you currently listening to/watching or reading?

I am currently reading the latest clinical guidelines for ADHD. I have been able to take in a screening of the Barbie movie, which has such a great message for the community and self awareness. Its a must see!

What three words would your friends use to describe you?

My friends would see me as a thoughtful, compassionate and dedicated friend.

Where is your happy place?

THREE … facts about elephants

Pique those big, grey ears this 12 August for World Elephant Day! Celebrate these gentle giants and enjoy three relephant facts!

1 Elephant babies are more than most of us could bench press. A baby elephant is born at around a massive 120 kilograms.

never forget just how amazing that felt. It a moment that I will never forget and one that I will never experience again so it holds the biggest place in my heart.

What were you like as a kid?

Busy... thinking back I was involved in the girl guides for many years, volunteering my time at fetes and fundraisers. I was always inquisistive and I developed a strong interest in animals and pets. Never a dull moment – something that I have taken into my adult life. What event, past or present, would you like to witness?

I would like to see the world become a more kind and accepting place. In many areas we are seeing a small change however it still isn’t enough. I would like to see people being able

Wilsons Prom is my most favourite place to visit anytime throughout the year. It is such a diverse landscape, with so many activities, wildlife and experiences that can easily be enjoyed by just stepping out into the national, I feel so lucky to be able to have this place so close by and do enjoy spending as much time there as I can.

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

An old family recipe would be my go to. Many chefs cook from the heart so I would recreate my nanas apple pie. Complete with a homemade dough, fresh apples cooked and sliced and served with a lattice top and sugar dusting.

Where is your dream holiday destination?

I would like to travel to Antarctica and explore a part of the world that so many would not ever get to see. Somewhere so remote and vast that has to be experienced to be believed.

2 Elephant trunks are extraordinarily sensitive, with over 150,000 muscles they can hold up to eight litres of water and can be used as a snorkel.

3 Elephant calves make human babies look slow! Calves can stand within 20 minutes of being born and can walk within the hour, unlike human babies which can take up to 18 months! After two days, elephant calves are able to give their parents a run for their trumpets, keeping up with the herd as they migrate to find food.

Jo has a community of 115,000 people across the world following along an ADHD Collective Instagram page she created with the goal to build awareness and understanding of ADHD (@the_adhd_collective). Picture: SUPPLIED

General Notices

Telstra plans to upgrade an existing telecommunications facility located on a 40m high monopole at 1550 Thompsons Road, Cranbourne East, Victoria 3977 www.rfnsa.com.au/3977028

1.Telstra Limited (A.C.N 051 775 556) are currently upgrading existing mobile network facilities to allow for the introduction of 5G to Telstra’s network. As part of this network upgrade, Telstra proposes the installation of LTE700 (4G), LTE1800 (4G), LTE2100 (4G), LTE2600 (4G), NR850 (5G), and NR3500 (5G) technologies in the Cranbourne East locality and surrounds.

2.The proposed works at the above site include the installation of six (6) new panel antennas, three (3) new ‘Air’ antennas (each no more than 2.8m long), and the installation of one (1) new equipment shelter (not more than 2.5m high and with a base area not exceeding 5m2). The proposed works also include the installation of associated ancillary equipment (including but not limited to three (3) new remote radio units (RRUs), one (1) new triangular headframe at the top of the monopole, and one (1) new power unit located at the base of the monopole). All internal equipment will be housed within the proposed equipment shelter to be located at the base of the facility.

3.Telstra regards the proposed installation as a Low-impact Facility under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 based on the above description.

4.In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/ or written submissions should be directed to Adi Ananda, Aurecon Australasia Pty Ltd (A.B.N 54 005 139 873) via email to: adi.ananda@aurecongroup.com or via post to: Adi Ananda, Aurecon Australasia, PO Box 23061, Docklands, VIC, 8012 by 5pm on 24/08/2023

Are you experienced in sales and enjoy dealing with customers over the phone?

INBOUND/OUTBOUND

TELEPHONE SALES

Network Classifieds is offering a motivated and talented individual the opportunity to join our Telephone Advertising Sales Team.

This position involves advertising sales across print, digital and social, servicing the needs of local businesses, working closely with clients to achieve and exceed customer expectations, maintaining and developing an extensive client base whilst seeking out new business opportunities.

Administration requirements which include bookings, copy and layout are an important aspect of the job as are internal and external communication and teamwork.

If you have:

1. A background of demonstrated achievement in a sales related environment;

2. A desire to work closely with clients in achieving their objectives;

3. A fundamental belief in the value of advertising;

4. A sound understanding of business principles;

5. An empathy for customer service and a desire to provide solutions;

6. High level of communication and negotiating skills, both oral and written;

7. Knowledge and needs of the market and the ability to develop new opportunities;

8. Great telephone skills.

Then we want to meet you!

To apply send your resume with covering letter to: Classified Advertising Manager sales@networkclassifieds.com.au

Telesales Representative Star News Group

Star News Group is a leading publisher of print and digital news

We are looking for a Telesales Representative to join our team

Overview

The successful candidate will be responsible for increasing revenue by selling our products and services to potential and existing customers

This can be a full or part-time role with flexible hours

Key Responsibilities

•Manage a portfolio of existing customers and develop relationships with new customers

•Conduct outbound telesales calls to promote our products and services

• Achieve and exceed sales targets and KPIs

•Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills

The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme

Send your application letter and resume to: Advertising Sales Manager Mandy Clark mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au

DieselMechanic WeareseekingaDiesel Mechanictojoinour teamanda3rd/4th yearapprenticeDiesel Mechanic. Thecorrectapplicant willneedtoholdskills suchas;Theabilityto workindependentlyand asateam.Youneedto beapunctualandan organisedteam member,takepridein theworkyoudoandan eyefordetailisan asset.Abletoorder yourownpartsandthe abilitytoadaptand learnwhenneeded.The workwedoisvery rewardingandweare passionateaboutour industry.Wehavea greatteamofpeople thatallworktogether toachieveagreatresult forourcustomers. Ifyouwanttoworkfor agreatcompanyplease callBenn0418998263

Contact:BennCollier 0418998263

DISCRIMINATION IN ADVERTISING IS UNLAWFUL

The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 1995 makes it unlawful for an advertiser to show any intention to discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy, race, age, marital status, political or religious belief or physical features, disability, lawful sexual activity/sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS status or on the basis of being associated with a person with one of the above characteristics, unless covered by an exception under the Act. As Network Classifieds could be legally liable if an unlawful advertisement is printed, Network Classifieds will not accept advertisements that appear to break the law. For more information about discrimination in advertising, contact your legal advisers or the Equal Opportunity Commission.

MITSUBISHI Challenger, 2015, new clear view mirrors, new air bags (rear), 3 ton towing (222,000 kgs), complete overhaul, new injectors and timing belt seals, steering rack boots, fuel sensor, complete service /service book stamped, RWC 3 months warranty, bluetooth, caravan brakes, reverse camera, manual and auto gear change, very clean, 1EQ 8OV.

$29 .00

•All advertisements must be pre-paid. For $29.00 you get a 4 line, ONE ITEM ONLY advertisement, restricted to “For Sale” or “Motoring” items only for private advertisers, run initially for 13 weeks or until sold. Additional lines will be charged at $3 per line per publication.

•After your advertisement has run for 13 weeks you must call us each fortnight to renew it for a further 2 week period AND reduce the price of your item by a minimum 5% for items in the “For Sale” section or 3% for items in the “Motoring” section. This process may continue until you have sold your item. If we do not hear from you we will assume you have sold your item and your advertisement will not appear.

• The sale price must be included in the advertisement and the only alterations you may make are to the PRICE of your item.

• Business advertisements, rental hire, pets & livestock and real estate are not included in the offer.

• The publisher reserves the right to decline any booking for the purpose of ongoing gain.

12624232-KG31-23

or visit us online! networkclassifieds.com.au

SPORT A Denhams Road decider

By David Nagel

Kooweerup will host the 2023 West Gippsland Football Netball Competition (WGFNC) grand final on Saturday 16 September after the host venue was ratified at a meeting between the WGFNC and its member clubs.

Kooweerup won hosting rights to the 2022 grand final, but was forced to hand over the biggest day of the football and netball season to Garfield after the condition of its ground deteriorated.

There are no such concerns this season, with the facilities at Kooweerup in pristine condition just seven weeks out from this year’s season decider.

WGFNC Operations Manager Brett Tessari said Kooweerup was the ideal choice to host the big dance, having met several key criteria.

“We were really keen where possible to plan ahead and try and keep the grounds neutral, based on the teams that will participate in finals, but we also wanted to keep the grand final as central as possible, and Kooweerup ticks that box,” Tessari said.

“The ground is also in amazing condition at the moment, and the netball courts have a real atmosphere about them, so we’re really excited to be able to host the 2023 grand final at Kooweerup.”

Tessari said there was keen interest from clubs to host finals action this year.

“There were eight out of the 12 clubs that applied to host finals, and we thank the clubs for that, but unfortunately there are only six games so we couldn’t accommodate the applications of all clubs,” he said.

“There are some fantastic facilities right across the competition, but we think Kooweerup is a great choice to host this year’s grand final.”

Tessari was also excited about the balance of this year’s competition, with all teams going in with a confident shot at this year’s title.

“It’s a dream to be honest, and to have all six teams that can win on any day just makes it all the more exciting,” Tessari said.

“Phillip Island knocks over Tooradin, Nar Nar Goon rolls Inverloch, and we hadWarragul Industrials get past Phillip Island on the week-

end…we just don’t know who is going to win on any given day.

“Cora Lynn rolled Nar Nar Goon, then got close to Tooradin…it’s going to be a fantastic finals series this year.

“And then you’ve got teams like Tooradin, Dalyston and Nar Nar Goon trying to stop Inverloch from going back-to-back in the netball.

“The build-up, on-field and on-court, is absolutely perfect.”

Kooweerup football president Jake Neill said the club was thrilled to win back hosting

rights this year.

“It’s fantastic to get it back…it was so disappointing to not host it last year due to the condition of the ground, but it’s come up great, it’s mickey mouse this year, and we’ll be right to go,” Neill said.

“It’s going to be fantastic to showcase our facilities, it’ll be good for the club, and we’re very confident we’ll put on a great show.

“We can’t wait.”

WEEK 1

Saturday 26 August

First Elimination Final (3 v 6)

Venue: Inverloch Recreation Reserve

Sunday 27 August

Second Elimination Final (4 v 5)

Venue: Western Park, Warragul

WEEK 2

Saturday 2 September

Second Semi-Final (1 v 2)

Venue: Nar Nar Goon Recreation Reserve

Sunday 3 September

First Semi-Final (Winners of Elimination Finals)

Venue: Bass Recreation Reserve

WEEK 3

Saturday 9 September

Preliminary Final

Venue: Dalyston Recreation Reserve

WEEK 4

Saturday 16 September

Grand Final

Venue: Kooweerup Recreation Reserve

Cranbourne blitz past Colts in return to very best form

By Jonty Ralphsmith Cranbourne is back.

Coming off consecutive losses for the first time this season, the Eagles demolished likely top-five finishers Port Melbourne, a team that beat them earlier in the year.

It was a performance in sync with the sort of footy Southern Football Netball League watchers have become accustomed to from Cranbourne.

The pressure from the first siren was outstanding, possession chain between the arcs effortless, and defensive desperation good enough to keep the Colts to one goal until 17 minutes into the last quarter.

Facing a midfield that consisted of exAFL players Billie Smedts and Josh Caddy, alongside the evergreen Justin Taylor, Cranbourne’s engine room cracked in.

The esteemed Colts midfield showed elements of their best in parts, but when Cranbourne won the footy, it went deep and was a major score generator on the day.

More impressive was the post clearance work.

Some Colts people estimated that Livingston Reserve was both 20 metres longer and wider as several visitors players cramped in the last quarter.

Every time Bailey Buntine intercepted, Brandon Osborne spoiled or Matthew Alister touched it in a productive milestone game, there was pockets of space ahead.

At one point in the third quarter, Zak Roscoe found himself in space in the middle of the ground and had a ball go over his head. He had time to fetch it, pass to Marc Holt in a one on one, who handed it to late inclusion Callum Pola for a simple goal.

It was training drill stuff.

When the corridor was shut down, the wings were inevitably open.

From there, it was either the bold advances of Nicholas Darbyshire and Dylan Cavalot types who got it in directly, or an aggressive transition to a player with 50 metres of real estate ahead.

Cranbourne kicked three goals before Port Melbourne had any form of uncontested possession, and had the first eight majors of the game, putting it to bed well before halftime.

Saturday was a fun day to be an Eagle. 351674

Chan Hargraves, among the league’s leading goal kickers, was kept scoreless by Brandon Osborne – albeit the supply was hospital.

A spoil deep in defence in the third quarter from Alister and the defensive running of midfielders well into the second half was emblematic of a team that had far more than the four points in mind, though.

This is a Cranbourne team sharpening itself for a deep September run and is peaking at the right time.

Meanwhile, Springvale Districts was able to match it with ladder leading Cheltenham for a half before the gulf between the top two and the rest was laid bare.

Cheltenham kicked nine goals to zero after the main break against a team missing its focal point, Matt Wetering, inside 50, ruled out for the rest of the season due to injury.

In highly regarded key defender John Walker’s first game back, Rosellas’ full forward Josh Fox piled on six.

Dingley took St Kilda City, struggling to field a team, to the cleaners, slotting 33 goals

in a 210-point victory.

Pictures: ROB CAREW

Michael Dolan kicked 11 while Adam Lloyd and Tom Morecroft each slotted five in the demolition as the Dingoes stars stuffed their pockets.

Those results have enormous ladder implications, with Cranbourne back up to second, a win next week against Springvale Districts to all but confirm a qualifying final spot.

Dingley will rise to third with a percentage boosting win, while the Dees will slide from second to fourth, but still six points clear of the Colts and St Paul’s McKinnon.

The latter two face each other next week with the winner to control their own destiny as each navigate a tricky run home.

In Division 2, Hampton Park has all but sown up a finals spot with a convincing win over Skye, led by Trent Thomas, Tanner Stanton and Andy Parker.

Doveton eased past Caulfield to confirm it will avoid the semi final as Harley Primrose and Luke Daidone looked to hit form at the right time.

Having taken it up to East Brighton earlier in the season, Keysborough was comprehensively outplayed despite the relentless efforts of Cooper Balic, Matt Collett and Nash Graham.

DIVISION 1

Results: Bentleigh 16.12 108 v Mordialloc

14.12 96, Cheltenham 16.8 104 v Springvale Districts 7.5 47, Cranbourne 17.15 117 v Port Melbourne Colts 3.8 26, St Paul’s McKinnon

18.14 122 v Chelsea Heights 9.5 59, Dingley

33.19 217 v St Kilda City 1.1 7

Ladder: Cheltenham 56, Cranbourne 44, Dingley 42, Springvale Districts 42, St Paul’s McKinnon 36, Port Melbourne Colts 36, Mordialloc 16, Chelsea Heights 12, Bentleigh 12, St Kilda City 4

Fixture: Chelsea Heights v Dingley, Mordialloc v Cheltenham, Port Melbourne Colts v St Paul’s McKinnon, St Kilda City v Bentleigh, Springvale Districts v Cranbourne

DIVISION 2

Results: Black Rock 14.13 97 v East Malvern

8.10 58, Doveton Doves 12.10 82 v Caulfield

7.12 54, Keysborough 4.2 26 v East Brighton

16.26 122, Hampton Park 13.13 91 v Skye 4.9

33, Highett 10.12 72 v Murrumbeena 12.12 84

Ladder: East Brighton 60, Murrumbeena 52, Doveton Doves 44, Hampton Park 36, Highett 36, Skye 26, East Malvern 24 Caulfield 24, Keysborough 14, Black Rock 4

Fixture: East Brighton v Black Rock, Murrumbeena v East Malvern, Doveton Doves v Keysborough, Hampton Park v Caulfield, Highett v Skye

Jack Muirhead is an important player in the backline for Doveton.

Kooweerup will host the 2023 West Gippsland Football Netball Competition grand final. 351671

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

SPORT Lightning strikes often for Cannons

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Casey has netted three points on the road at Bendigo against North West Lightning to keep itself ensconced in the upper rungs of the ladder.

The 4-1 win came despite the absence of usual starter Tegen Hyland, with several others able to step up in her absence.

The Cannons were on top for most of the contest, with Michaela Bullock hitting the scoreboard twice, alongside Emma Harris and Jess Rowland.

The men, meanwhile, have gone down 6-1 to the same opponent as their difficult season continues.

Skipper Matthew Light was the goal scorer, finding the back of the net for the sixth time this season and first time for five weeks.

Women:

Results: WestVic 1 v Brunswick 3, Yarra Valley 4 v Monash University 1, NorthWest Lightning 1 v Casey 4, Mornington Peninsula 1 v Knox 0, PEGS 3 v Werribee 3

Ladder: Mornington Peninsula 36, Tarra Valley 35, Casey 35, Monash University 29, Brunswick 18, Knox 18,Werribee 14,WestVic 13, PEGS 11, North West Lightning 9

Fixture: Brunswick vYarraValley, Knox v North West Lightning, Werribee v Casey, Monash University v Mornington Peninsula, Men

Results: North West Lightning 6 v Casey 1, Melbourne Sikhs 6 v Eastern Christian Hockey Organisation 3, Yarra Valley 3 v Monash University 4, Old Xaverians 1 v Brunswick 1, PEGS 6 v Werribee 3

Ladder: Melbourne Sikhs 36, Old Xaverians 31, PEGS 31, Brunswick 29, Monash University 26, North West Lightning 26, Werribee 13, Yarra Valley 10, Eastern Christian Hockey Organisation 8, Casey 3

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

Tight tennis tussle in the Osborne Shield

It was a magnificent weekend for tennis in the Berwick and District Tennis Association with only two of the 55 scheduled matches affected by weather.

In the coveted Osborne Shield Cranbourne and Pakenham had terrific wins, while Drouin and Narre Warren North played out an absolute ripper on Saturday.

Drouin won the most games - 35 to 32 – but Narre Warren North won two matches to one and four sets to three to take the points.

SATURDAY

Osborne Shield

Drouin 1 3:35 v 2 4:32 Narre Warren North, Beaconsfield Gold 1 2:25 v 2 5:40 Cranbourne, Officer Blue v Sandhurst (Forfeit), Pakenham 2 5:42 v 1 3:31 Beaconsfield Blue.

Section 1 Rubbers

Berwick 2 4:28 v 1 2:14 Harkaway, Cranbourne v Officer Red (Washout), Narre Warren 2 4:32 v 1 2:23 Beaconsfield.

Section 2 Rubbers

Berwick White 2 5:41 v 1 2:24 Berwick Blue, Narre Warren North v Clyde (Forfeit), Cranbourne 2 5:39 v 1 2:25 Narre Warren, Pakenham 0 1:34 v 3 6:43 Upper Beaconsfield.

Section 3 Rubbers

Berwick Blue 1 3:37 v 2 5:45 Berwick Black, Bunyip 1 2:27 v 2 5:43 Clyde White, Clyde Green 3 6:38 v 0 0:23 BerwickWhite, Cranbourne 1 2:18 v 2 4:31 Narre Warren North.

Section 4 Rubbers

Beaconsfield Gold 2 4:39 v 1 3:29 Cranbourne White, Cranbourne Purple 0 0:3 v 0 1:6 Cranbourne Red, Clyde Blue v Beaconsfield Blue (Washout).

Section 5 Rubbers

Narre Warren North Black 2 4:26 v 1 2:21 Narre

Local guns get a taste on big stage

By Jonty Ralphsmith

The Under-16 Boys National Championships took place across June and July.

Vic Country came from behind to win its first game against Vic Metro 10.8 68 to 8.17 65 before falling short to South Australia 1.5 11 to 12.12 84 and Western Australia 11.7 73 to 14.14 98.

Star News spoke to coach Dave Loader to get an insight into the local boys.

Jobe Scapin: Gippsland boy won the Bartram Medal, awarded by the staff for their contribution over the program. An outside running midfielder who uses the footy well. Thrived when he got a hot, dry day on Friday against WA.

Berwick 6:39 v 2:17 Fountain Gate Green, Officer 0:11 v 8:48 Fountain Gate Gold, Narre Warren 5:40 v 3:33 Upper Beaconsfield.

Section 9 Singles

Narre Warren North 0:19 v 8:49 Narre Warren South, Clyde 1:19 v 5:43 Officer.

SUNDAY

Section 10 Singles

Cranbourne 0:6 v 8:48 Berwick White, Narre

Warren 5:40 v 3:34 Upper Beaconsfield, Berwick Blue 4:32 v 4:32 Harkaway.

Section 11 Singles

Gloucester 4:35 v 4:38 Berwick White, Narre

Warren Green 5:41 v 3:21 Narre Warren Gold, Berwick Blue 2:21 v 6:42 Clyde.

Section 12 Singles

Beaconsfield 4:35 v 4:32 Harkaway, Pakenham

7:47 v 1:12 Officer, Berwick 7:44 v 1:19 Gloucester.

Section 13 Singles

Cranbourne 3:27 v 5:37 Narre Warren Gold, Narre Warren Green 4:33 v 4:39 Beaconsfield.

Section 14 Singles

Willem Duursma: A high-running defender who won the Vic Country MVP. Has good kicking skills, pretty good in the air and is clean on the ground. An attentive character, he led from the front as captain of the squad and played three solid games. An actions leader who buys in and loves the hustle and bustle of the game.

Zach O’Keefe: A small terrorising forward who loves the contest. Is clean below his knees. Bought into what the team was trying to do in the two games he played, both as a late inclusion.

Tairon Ah Mu: A terrific ruck/key forward/key defender. The longer the carnival went, the more influential he was in the air and using his big frame. There are high hopes for the Haileybury and Lysterfield kid.

Toby Sinemma: A left-footed outside who runs pretty good patterns. Will improve as he plays more footy at a high level and has given himself a strong platform. When he grows and improves endurance and speed, there will be massive natural improvement.

Itwasagloriousweekendfortennisinthe BDTA. 293980 Picture:ROBCAREW

Warren North Red, Beaconsfield 1 2:31 v 2 4:33

Cranbourne Black, Narre Warren 3 6:36 v 0 0:6 Cockatoo.

Section 6 Singles

Berwick White 4:35 v 4:36 Berwick Blue,

Tooradin 5:40 v 3:29 Hallam, Pakenham 3:23 v 5:37 Upper Beaconsfield.

Section 7 Singles

Berwick Blue 5:40 v 3:31 Berwick White, Bea-

consfield 1:22 v 7:44 Officer Blue, Cranbourne

3:29 v 5:41 Narre Warren, Officer Red 1:23 v

7:44 Narre Warren North.

Section 8 Singles

Cranbourne Green 3:30 v 5:40 Narre Warren Green, Fountain Gate 7:44 v 1:18 Officer, Narre Warren Gold 7:42 v 1:19 Cranbourne Gold.

Section 15 Green Ball Singles

Cranbourne Blue 2:19 v 6:44 Berwick, Beaconsfield 5:36 v 3:32 Officer.

Section 16 Doubles

Narre Warren South 3:25 v 3:29 Narre Warren, Berwick 0:14 v 6:36 Beaconsfield.

Section 17 Doubles

Beaconsfield 5:34 v 1:23 Upper Beaconsfield, Pakenham 5:32 v 1:11 Narre Warren.

Section 18 Doubles

Narre Warren Green 0:13 v 6:36 Berwick White, Berwick Blue 4:29 v 2:16 Narre Warren Gold.

Josh Granger: A tall, developing player who is really good athletically and has a bright future, but was hampered by injury throughout the carnival. Missed the first game with injury, came off injured in the second game and missed the third game.

Noah Hibbins-Hargraves. An extreme talent. Was in Vic Country’s best handful in each of the games as a high pressure forward who can get it done overhead. A coachable player and there are signs he can play different positions.

Jackson Long: A raw tall player who is growing into a massive frame and has really good hands.

Picture:GARYSISSONS

Emotional day for Eagles

By Jonty Ralphsmith

A generation of success has seen Cranbourne celebrate a slew of reunions in recent years.

For some time, the reserves and under-18s have been informally asking the question of whether the Eagles can expand their celebrations to teams beyond the firsts.

On Saturday, the emotion fuelled 2001 reserves premiership was marked, the 55-point grand final win coming two weeks after the death of teammate Travis Lee.

“With what happened, we were never going to lose,” said coach Steve ‘Boofa’ Culton.

“It was heartbreaking for all the boys, he was the heart and soul of the joint.”

“He was a fringe player but he’d always come to training.

“He was there whether he played or not, he always turned up.

“He was an honest kid.”

The funeral service was held on the Thursday before the grand final, after he passed away following the two-point semi final win over Seaford.

After narrowly defeating Seaford in their three meetings through the year, destiny always looked like being realised on grand final day.

A strong start saw the hosts skip out to an early lead and they never looked back, winning their 13th consecutive match, with their late mate front of mind.

“Before the game we had a photo of him in the rooms and halftime was emotional,” Culton said.

“At three quarter time, we held his photo up at the huddle and we wore black arm bands.

“As soon as the siren went, we didn’t have a shower.

“We took the medal and a slab of beer and walked from the racecourse (oval) to the cemetery and sat at his grave and had a beer there.”

The final, fitting tearjerker of the day was Lee’s best mate Troy Datson being awarded the best afield medal for his shutdown role in the backline.

Lee played a series of games throughout the year and was an integral part of the direction the club was looking to take.

“We always used to say you would get dropped to the ones!” Culton quipped, tongue-in-cheek, noting the seniors won only four games for the year.

“We played a different brand of footy, it was handball at all costs, rely on your mates.

“It was a really amazing year.”

Kangaroos miles too good for Wickers

By Marcus Uhe

Berwick’s distant hopes of qualifying for finals in the Eastern Football Netball League were dashed on Saturday thanks to a 105-point loss at the hands of East Ringwood.

Ten goals to Kangaroos spearhead Trent Farmer single-handedly outscored the Wickers who could only manage 7.5 47 in the face of the onslaught, the Kangaroos kicking 23.14 152 in the massacre at home.

Berwick made a disastrous start to the contest, conceding the first seven goals of the

afternoon to trail by 44 before an opportunistic goal to Harry Money finally put them on the board after 20 minutes.

Clint Evans’ side stemmed the tide in the second term, holding the Kangaroos to just three goals and kicking two themselves, before the destruction returned in the second half.

A goalless third quarter saw the margin jump to 84 at the final break before six goals to three in the last pushed the final margin to triple figures.

It was comfortably Berwick’s highest los-

ing margin this season, having been competitive in nearly every fixture despite struggling to hurt sides going the other way.

Money, Sam Hilton-Joyce, and Ryan Bromley each kicked two.

In positive news, they have survived the relegation battle to remain in Premier Division next season, as South Croydon in second-last will be unable to leapfrog them in the final two weeks of the year.

Berwick face Doncaster East in its final home game of the 2023 season next week.

All about fun and improvement for free-flying Falcons FC

By David Nagel

Look out Sam Kerr…the girls from Harkaway Hills College are scoring goals at a rapid rateboth on and off the pitch - in their first season in theVictorian Churches Football Association (VCFA).

Falcons FC, as they are known, have scored 79 goals in just 14 matches and sit proudly on top of the VCFA Under-14 Girls competition with just four rounds remaining in the season.

That’s a remarkable set of numbers by anyone’s standards, but when you consider these girls had never played soccer before until last year - then a championship win would be even more remarkable.

The story began when the developing school from Narre Warren North decided to enter a team in interschool sports last year.

Fuelled by the upcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup, the girls aged between nine and 13 were being taught by a teacher, who fell sick… so reinforcements were called in.

Jaime Castro, a former professional player in El Salvador, whose daughter Sabrina plays in the team, was called into action.

“The girls had never played soccer or team sports, and there are not many girls at the school to start with, but you could see they were all eager and wanted to have a go,” Castro said.

“We lost the tournament, but I could see potential, and started talking to the principal about running some training sessions and possibly getting a team together for this year.

“Some trialled, some left, some got injured, but at the end we got girls from grade four to grade eight and that’s how things got started.”

Castro has a strong football pedigree, with his dad making the squad for El Salvador in the 1982 World Cup in Spain, while Jaime himself was planning on playing in England before injury curtailed his career.

His passion for soccer is as clear as a beau-

tiful blue sky, but it’s his love for girls’ football that has now grown.

“My friends know my background, they know my passion for football, but now I am so passionate about girl’s football because they’re there to listen, to follow instructions, and they have a burning desire to improve and compete,” Castro said.

“They didn’t know each other before this team came together, because of the age difference, and now they talk to each other at training and at school.

“I have fallen in love with women’s football because they are so coachable and so enjoyable to watch.”

And the girls’ passion has grown as well.

“They used to come to training in school shirts, but now they come in the colours of Argentina, Brazil and Germany,” he said.

“And they love watching the World Cup; they come to training and talk about it and their heroes are right in front of them on the TV.”

Falcons FC has been a goal-scoring force this season, with a best result of 11-0, while a 10-0 victory on the weekend has them closing in on 100 goals for the season.

Castro won’t take the credit, but his elite football experience is certainly rubbing off

on the girls.

“I teach them the way I got coached, using the ABC’s of football,” he explained.

“Agility, Balance, Coordination and Speed… they’re the ABC’s of football and that’s what they’re learning right now.

“The initial training was me teaching them how to play as a block, moving left to right, forward or back, and other teams don’t know how to do that yet.

“We have different players with different skills and it’s exciting to watch them play.

“One of strikers played (Australian Rules) football, and the other was a runner, so it’s exciting to see them expand their skills on the soccer field.”

The school and Castro are enjoying themselves so much…they’ve now decided to expand the program as well.

“From a simple idea, now it’s turned into something more like a dream than a reality,” Castro said.

“I created a soccer academy, which is called Brazil Football Academy, and I am basically coaching the girls through that.

“It started as a school team, but now we’ve decided to become a club.

“We have boys that are interested, and will hopefully have three teams in the VCFA next year.

“We’re looking at under-8 mixed and under-11 or under-12 boys to sit alongside the girls’ team we already have.

“Watching the girls train has motivated others kids to get out there and have a go.”

Falcons FC will host trials later in the year, with a committee to be put in place to drive the club moving forward.

Falcons FC have also been lobbying to council to try and find a new pitch; currently relying on the generosity of others in order to have a place to call home.

Harry Money kicked two goals on a tough day for Berwick. 341634 Picture: ROB CAREW

Falcons FC,back from left,Annette,Felicity,Mariana,Zoe,Monica,Bethany and Claire. Front row; Lucia,Sabrina,Shahini,Andrea and Emily. 352333

Picture: SUPPLIED

2001 Cranbourne reserves premiership reunion attendees left to right: Ben Disney,Paul Reifell, Marty Avard,Daniel Arfi,Ash Oats,Shannon Des,Anthony Beadle,Troy Datson (best on ground), Like Tymonson,Simon Hodgson,Joe Hackett,Steve Culton (coach),Grant Lacey,Justin March, Daniel Burgess,Nathan Dinsdale,Micky Burton,Shaun Mulqueen.

Halcyon Berwick – Final Release

Less than 25 houses remaining

A lifestyle community designed for over 50s, Halcyon Berwick has no deferred management fees, stamp duty, entry or exit fees.

Since launching in 2022, Halcyon Berwick has seen a fantastic response from the local area and is now on the verge of selling out. With a brand-new clubhouse, modern homes and a community that grows every month, it’s easy to see why the response to Halcyon Berwick has been so positive. Featuring multiple 2 and 3 bedroom floorplans with prices starting from $550K*, Halcyon Berwick has a home to cater for any lifestyle.

This is your last chance to purchase new at Halcyon Berwick. If you’d like to see first-hand what makes Victoria’s first Halcyon community so special, register to attend our next discovery tour or make a private appointment.

Halcyon Berwick