News - Cranbourne Star News - 17th August 2023

Way forward

Cranbourne’s African communities have received the opportunity to access alcohol and other drugs and mental health treatment and support, as part of a newly-launched project.

Nas Recovery Centre has brought the Path2Home project to Cranbourne, specifically targeting the African communities.

The eight week program is targeted to support the vulnerable African population - youth from 15 years of age and up along with their families.

Managing director Nyachan Nyak said Cranbourne was chosen as the new home for the program as the team saw a gap missing in crucial care for Casey’s migrant African population.

“City of Casey is home to many migrants, especially the African population, and the lifestyle shift may come with struggles and issues that develop into a need for help,“ she said.

‘Lost opportunity’

By Emily Laing

Casey ex-councillors squandered an opportunity for a much-needed jobs precinct in Cranbourne West, former councillor Steve Beardon says. “Elected representatives should never forget it is the community we serve,“ Mr Beardon said.

“Elected representatives were once revered … now communities everywhere search for integrity in politics.

“We need a stronger IBAC to police integrity”. The Independent Broad-based Anticorruption Commission’s Operation Sandon investigated the 123-hectare space after it was rezoned as residential land to increase its val-

ue. The site was one of four planning proposals involving John Woodman and his clients investigated by the IBAC over issues of corrupt conduct between property developers and councillors in the City of Casey.

Rezoning of the land was “rushed“ onto the agenda of a 2014 City of Casey Council Meeting by former Councillor Sam Aziz.

IBAC found advice provided by both council and state planning officers was “repeatedly ignored“, with both departments noting the proposal to change the land from commercial to residential “lacked strategic justification“.

Nevertheless, the proposal progressed through council, representing a $35 million

gain for developer Leighton Properties, who had taken MrWoodman on as their consultant.

It wasn’t until the final state of the application process where the proposal was denied by the Planning Minister.

Mr Beardon said Victoria must follow New South Wales in the effort to distance councillors from planning matters.

“Going forward the Victorian State Government has little option but to follow New South Wales, by taking the politics out of planning law and remove the involvement of Councillors in planning decisions,“ Mr Beardon said.

“Cranny West should have been zoned as Industry/Employment years earlier.

“The cost of not having opportunity, the cost of not having a job, or a job close to home, can never be recovered.“

The New South Wales Government has planning protocols designed to prevent corruption in the application process.

In Greater Sydney, local planning panels (LPPs) determine development applications on behalf of councils where “there is concern that a development assessment may be compromised“, “proposed projects receive a high number of complaints“, “proposed projects are sensitive“ or “projects have strategic importance to the state“.

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Nyachan Nyak and Charles Frimpong from Nas Recovery Centre. 351468 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Library access falls short

By Emily Laing

Casey has ranked as one of Melbourne’s government areas with the least access to public library services, despite having higher percentages of teens and children than areas with the greatest access.

Casey resident Komal Jha said when her family first moved to the area, she was “surprised to see such a huge council with only few libraries and family friendly activities“.

Those living in Casey’s coastal towns feel they have the least access of the region as a whole.

Casey houses five council-led Connected Libraries, none of which are located in Casey’s southern-most areas.

The five libraries are located in Doveton, Hampton Park, Endeavour Hills, Bunjil Place and Cranbourne.

“The coastal and southern towns are overlooked in many respects making residents feel like we just don’t count,“ Pearcedale resident Janice Mills said.

Tooradin local Patricia Chandler said with the closure of the town’s book store this week, she will struggle to have access to books.

“I’m a pensioner and can not afford the fuel costs to go to Cranbourne Library to get books, then worry I won’t get them back in time and attract fines,“ she said.

Coastal local Jenny Lewis is hoping to see a “mobile library service“ in future.

“We need a mobile library service to come to the coastal village and other areas where transport makes accessibility a barrier,“ she said.

CEO Connected Libraries Beth Luppino said she is “excited“ to be extending outreach and mobile services“over the coming months“ to help ease the demand for services “beyond the four walls of [Casey’s] existing libraries“.

Casey suburbs south of Cranbourne make up 43.17 per cent of Casey’s total land size and 8.76 per cent of Casey’s total population, but have no libraries of their own.

Within those suburbs reside 9,087 residents under the age of 24 who have no local library services to access for schooling.

Casey and it’s neighbouring government areas were listed as having some of the lowest access to libraries in the Melbourne area.

Casey (1.62 libraries per 100,000 people), Cardinia (1.67 per 100,000) and Dandenong (1.25 per 100,000) were among the lowest ranking government areas despite having larger populations and being part of Melbourne’s growth corridor.

Meanwhile, government areas like Maribyrnong (6.94 per 100,000), Stonnington (5.64 per 100,000) and Yarra (5.46 per 100,000) have the highest number of libraries per capita, despite having smaller populations.

The population in City of Maribyrnong in 2021 was 85,209, whereas the Casey population was more than three times larger at 378,472 people.

Casey also has a higher percentage of young residents, with 35.7 per cent of Casey’s population being aged 24 and under, compared to 26.1 per cent in Maribyrnong.

City of Casey Manager Active Communities, Angie Peresso said the current “pace and scale“ of population growth in Casey presents some challenges in the pursuit of new library sites.

“Building further public libraries presents significant challenges,“ she said.

“Precinct planning has identified where new branch library services are or will be needed, however funding for construction is not yet secured.

“The potential funding stream for libraries, including that under the Growing Suburbs Fund, is inadequate to cover the substantial

cost of building new branch libraries.“

The Growing Suburbs Fund saw a sharp drop in financial allocation by the Victorian government in the 2023-24 state budget, with a donation of only $10 million compared to $50 million the year prior.

In response to the ineffective resourcing, the City of Casey has been working on alternatives to keep services accessible.

“Casey has recently approved additional funding in this current financial year to its partner, Connected Libraries, to pilot outreach services such as click and collect in the growth areas,“ Ms Peresso said.

“Council also received $2,132,541 during the 2022-23 year via the State Government’s Public Libraries Funding Program.

“This funding supported Council to undertake a range of activities to support and meet the information needs of residents, including online services that cater to all areas of the municipality.“

Online alternatives have assisted locals in gaining access to library services.

“Being able to use the Libby app as a member of Connected Libraries is simple for all those with an internet connection to access ebooks and audiobooks once you’ve joined up,“ local Donna McGrath said.

Others await services closer to home.

“It would be wonderful if there was a library in NarreWarren South on the community centre land pocket next to Casey Central,“ Amanda Haslam said.

“This was actually proposed decades ago and was part of the advertised local area council development plans when we bought in the area 20+ years ago.

“Whilst we have access to the other sites we could benefit from a decent sized one near us, it would service so many people around here in this growth corridor.“

Government backs biosphere reserve with $1.2 million

The Western Port Biosphere Reserve has received $1.2 million in funding from the State Government to support the marine ecosystem and the region’s growing potential as a major site for blue carbon capture.

The reserve will receive crucial planning and restoration projects thanks to the grant, which is being split between theWestern Port Biosphere Foundation and the Bunurong Land Council.

“Investing in the health of the UNESCO Western Port Biosphere Reserve is crucial to maintaining Victoria’s precious biodiversity for years to come,“ said Minister for Environment Ingrid Stitt.

“This investment will allow the Western Port Biosphere Reserve Foundation and the Bunurong Land Council to work with the community to restore Western Port’s extensive wetland areas and help realise the reserve’s potential to absorb carbon.

“Victoria has cut emissions by more than

Cache Taxation Services

any other state since 2014 and these grants will ensure further work is done to decarbonise the state.“

The funding will not only help future proof Western Port’s unique coastal biodiversity but will work towards optimising the blue carbon storage capacity the reserve provides through its extensive mangroves and wetlands.

Mangroves, saltmarsh and seagrass ecosystems capture carbon at between 30-50 times of equivalent areas of forests, making protection and enhancement of coastal habitat central to climate action strategy and zero carbon commitment.

The funding will initially be used to conduct detailed site specific analysis and planning to identify options for both protecting and enhancing mangrove, seagrass and saltmarsh habitats.

The investment will allow further research into how to protect and restore the region’s

extensive wetland areas, while delivering onground works including planting, fencing and pest and weed control.

The grants will also ensure the reserves ecosystems are preserved so that the region’s biodiversity continues to thrive, including the thousands of trans-continental bird migrations that take place each year.

Western Port Biosphere CEO Mel Barker said wins for the environment directly benefit the community.

“We welcome the Victorian Government’s support, which will build on the more than 60,000-year knowledge of traditional custodians of country and the scientific research undertaken by Deakin University’s worldclass Blue Carbon Lab in 2022,“ she said.

“We could not have reached this stage without the financial support provided by seven member councils from the South East Councils Climate Change Alliance (SECCCA), which contributed to the Blue Carbon Lab’s

scientific research and report and other enabling donations of money and resources from the community.

“The benefits for Western Port extend beyond climate action- preserving ecosystems is invaluable for maintaining biodiversity, the thousands of trans-continental bird migrations that happen annually and for the protection of the internationally declared Ramsar wetlands at the heart of the Reserve.”

The councils that contributed funding for the initial Blue Carbon Lab research were: Bass Coast Shire, City of Bayside, City of Frankston, Cardinia Shite, City of Casey, City of Kingston and Mornington Peninsula Shire.

The Western Port Biosphere Reserve Foundation is formally recognised by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation’s (UNESCO) Biosphere Program, which promotes community involvement in conserving biological diversity and maintaining cultural values.

Cranbourne Library. 353691

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Tip stench

By Emily Laing

Cranbourne’s infamous SBI Landfill is facing SupremeCourtactionaftertheEPAbeganlegal proceedings over extended issues with odour permeating nearby areas, and distraught residents are enjoying this much needed reprieve.

Residents living nearby the landfill site have been “plagued“ with an offensive odour since March 2022.

Residents have reported declining mental health as the odour prevents them from spending time outside and permeates their homes.

The court action taken by the EPA is a welcome milestone in their fight to have SBI face real consequences for ineffective management of the tip.

“Why wouldn’t we be happy,“ nearby resident David Clark said.

“As a whole that’s what we all wanted.

“SBI always had commercial interests ahead of community standards, as I know working in a similar field which is covered by regulatory guidelines.“

Mr Clark said SBI is now suffering the “consequences of [their] actions“.

Chair of the SBI Community Consultative Committee, Norman Ridley said while the surrounding areas “undoubtedly“ suffered from the odour for over twelve months, there has been little in the way of odour reports since April, and he believes the changes to infrastructure made by SBI upon EPA recommendations has made a palpable difference.

“Many of the residents that I speak to are more focused on the present and looking forward because we do not want the odour impact to continue,“ he said.

“Much work has already been done and that has resulted in virtually no odour reports from the community since early April.

“My regular engagement with SBI, the EPA

and others gives me reassurance that the actions already taken have had a positive impact onthecommunity,andtheplannedinfrastructure improvements now being implemented give me confidence that we will not suffer the odour impacts of mid-2022 again.“

EPA alleged that SBI failed to comply with the requirements of its operating licence and failed to meet its environmental duty at the Ballarto road site.

SBI is facing fines of $1.8 million for the company and $360,000 for directors in re-

sponse to each allegation, of which five were listed, after the EPA sought civil penalties for the landfill’s negative community impact.

EPA is currently seeking interim court orders to prevent SBI from accepting any further waste at the site, until it “improves management of the landfill site and prevents unacceptable impacts on human health and the environment”.

However, some locals are hoping for a more permanent outcome.

“The only reasonable consequence here is

the site needs to be shut down,“ nearby resident Ray Luckins said.

“There is no way landfill should exist 500 metres from residential areas.“

Odours emanating from the tip were initially reported by nearby residents in March 2022, and since then the EPA has been taking constant regulatory action to rectify the issue, to no avail.

“As these matters are now before the Court, EPA will not be making any further comments,” the EPA stated.

12628061-JC33-23

Entrance to the SBI site. 289985

THE LOWDOWN

Q&A

Tell us a fun fact about yourself!

A few years ago, I discovered that I am the great-great-granddaughter of a convict sent to Tasmania after being accused of stealing two sheets and two tablecloths. I was so intrigued by this that I wrote about her and this was included in the book ‘Convicts Lives at the Cascades Female Factory: Volume 2’.

What did you love the most about your job?

Before retiring, I was the Uniting Church minister in Lakes Entrance and later in Sale, in Gippsland.

I loved living in that beautiful part of Victoria, getting to know the people in my congregations and in those two towns, hearing their life stories and being part of those communities.

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

I think I would be a cat – provided I had a good family to live with. That way, I would have a warm place to live, laps to sit (when I wanted to), a degree of independence, food on demand and would give, and receive, affection. What would your last meal be?

I would like my last meal to be a Chai Latte with a white chocolate and raspberry muffin. At that point I wouldn’t be concerned about a balanced diet and could enjoy something without thinking about the effects on the waistline.

What was your most memorable moment?

My most memorable moment happened recently when I was sitting in the Catholic Cathedral in Rouen, France and taking part in the Masswhich included Holy Communion. While sitting there, I recalled how my French ancestors had fled France during the persecution of Huguenots in the late 1500s – and there I was, sitting in perfect safety, thanks to them.

What were you like as a kid?

I was quiet, shy and tried not to be noticed.

with

retired minister Reverend Susan Stott

I would like to dine with Ernie Dingo, Dame Judi Dench, Sir Billy Connolly, Queen Elizabeth, Charles Darwin and St Francis of Assisi. What are you currently listening to/watching or reading?

I am currently watching the FIFA Women’s World Cup and reading British murder mysteries. I had never been very interested in watching sporting events but, having been introduced to the World Cup - and recently attending a game - I am in awe of the players’ skills and endurance. British murder mysteries are a bit of escapism and brain stretching trying to work out ‘who did it’. What three words would your friends use to describe you?

I hope they would say – reliable, dependable and willing to give most things a go. What would you do on your perfect ’day off’?

A perfect day off would begin by waking up slowly and realising that there is nothing that I have to do that day. From there it would probably be about the garden – either working in it, visiting a nursery (preferably with a cafe attached) or reading a book in it and later walking our dog.

Where is your happy place?

My happy place is being close to nature with those I love.

THREE … ways to prepare for spring

Spring is right around the corner, the time where the flowers bloom, the sun begins to shine and the trees reawaken from their slumber. Here are a few ways you can prepare for the new season.

1 Do a classic spring clean. There are a number of health benefits to a decluttered and clean home, including improved immune response and decreased stress. Plus, there’s nothing quite like packing away your winter coats for the year!

2

My favourite thing was to ‘help’ my Dad in his workshop, the garden or with whatever he was doing.

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

I would like to witness people, including governments, working together for the good of humanity and the environment. I despair at how self-focused people are becoming with seemingly little thought for others or for the future.

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

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

I think I would cook spanakopita. It is an allround great dish as it contains vegetables, pastry and good cheeses but also requires patience and skill to get it just right.

Where is your dream holiday destination?

My dream holiday destination is a small cabin surrounded by bush on the edge of Cradle Mountain National Park in Tasmania. It has a slow combustion fire, native animals at the doorstep, great walking trails and is close to good restaurants.

3

Get out in the garden. Now is the time to plant bulbs and blooms for summer, clear out gutters and get your garden back into shape after the winder rains and winds. As spring approaches and we spend more time outside, the experience can be enhanced by a well-cultivated and clean garden space.

Take stock of what you can let go of. Spring is a time of re-birth, of letting go of what no longer has space in your life. What are you ready to let perish with the winter cold? What are you wanting to bring in as the sun takes over? Now is the perfect time for reflection and journalling as we move into the next seasonal stage.

Reverend Susan Stott. 350225

Picture: GARY SISSONS

Ex-councillor calls for cap

By Matthew Sims

Former Casey councillor Steve Beardon has questioned the need for councils to cover the legal fees for councillors before court or other legal investigations and called for councils to restrict any and all meetings between councillors and developers without senior council staff present, as the impact of IBAC’s Operation Sandon report.

It follows the tabling of IBAC’s Operation Sandon special report in Parliament on Thursday 27 July.

The investigation centred on four planning proposals involving John Woodman and his clients, including one to rezone land in CranbourneWest as residential to increase its value.

IBAC found former Casey mayors Sam Aziz and Geoff Ablett accepted more than $1.15 million in payments and in-kind support for promoting developer John Woodman or his clients’ interests on council.

Under state law, IBAC is barred from publicly stating people engaged in criminal, corrupt conduct.

However, the anti-corruption watchdog is able to refer alleged criminality to the Office of Public Prosecutions, which would decide whether to pursue charges.

Casey Council corporate governance manager Chloe Casey said the council had an excess payment of $10,000 to cover the legal fees of former councillors, but ultimately it was the decision of the insurer.

“Under the Local Government Act 1989 , Section 76, Indemnity provisions, council is required to cover the legal fees of former councillors, provided they carried out their roles and responsibilities as a councillor in good faith,” she said.

“Council’s insurer will not cover the legal fees if a former councillor is found to not have acted in good faith.

“It will be up to the individual former councillor to cover their own legal costs.”

Casey Council did not name any councillors which received financial support, if any, as part of the Operation Sandon inquiry nor how much they received.

Mr Beardon resigned during his second term in March 2017 and said councillors have a number of ways to seek advice or bring up an issue concerning conflicts of interest or other legal breaches, including speaking with the chief executive, raising issues at weekly briefings or calling a special briefing.

“Councillors govern under legislated guide-

lines and (are) educated extensively upon their election on their legal parameters,” he said.

“Should a councillor stray outside of these guidelines, the onus needs fall back upon the individual councillor to justify.

“Councillors also have senior staff to call on, and advise individually, and collectively on planning or any issue before council, as well as the Victorian Local Governance Association to call upon on any advice needed procedurally.”

Mr Beardon said legal representation paid by councils needed to be capped.

“Councillors found to have purposely conspired to seek personal gain or similar outside

of legislative responsibility need be responsible for all their legal fees.

“At the end of the day, legislation needs be changed to empower council chief executives to have the authority to report any suspected breaches by councillors.

“Cost recovery also needs be sought and guaranteed by a councillor or councillors should a councillor be found to have breached legislation.”

Mr Beardon said the function of councillors was to seek planning and legal advice and set strategic direction based on said advice.

“Councils employ highly educated, experienced and knowledgeable staff,” he said.

“Councillors should never invite or attend meetings with developers, or outside interests, without the presence of senior council staff.

“This is or should be standard protocol.”

Mr Beardon said the community deserved to know how much money was being spent on legal costs defending former councillors.

“A question ratepayers need to ask of Casey council is: how much have sacked councillors collectively cost ratepayers for their legal representation to date, and how much are any further legal expenses estimated to cost ratepayers, now that IBAC has been reported as having referred evidence from its report to the DPP?”

Speaking about the circumstances, decisions and actions which were detailed in the Operation Sandon report, Mr Beardon said he was “terribly disappointed”.

“Elected representatives should never forget it is the community we serve,” he said.

“Public service is, or was once, viewed as honourable.

“Elected representatives were once revered, now communities everywhere search for integrity in politics.

“We need a stronger IBAC to police integrity.”

Former Casey councillor Steve Beardon. 22093

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Govt funds Casey roads

Casey has been selected by the State Government to receive funding to develop, design and plan road safety improvements along councilmanaged roads, intersections and precincts.

Casey is one of 11 local governments to take part in the first stage of the Labor Government’s $210 million Safe Local Roads and Streets Program.

City of Casey Chair of Administrators Noelene Duff PSM welcomed the announcement.

“Our city’s big population needs big investment, and we know that improvements to our road network and road safety are very important to our community,” she said.

“We commend the State Government for recognising and supporting the critical role councils play in identifying and delivering road safety improvements, and we thank the government for this investment in Casey to help keep our growing community safe on local roads.

“We look forward to working with the Department of Transport and Planning and the Transport Accident Commission to plan and deliver these improvements over the coming years and to achieve the best outcomes for our community.”

Others chosen to take part across metropolitan Melbourne are Brimbank, Monash, Yarra and Melton, and in regional Victoria - Moira, Baw Baw, Central Goldfields, Greater Bendigo, Murrindindi and Surf Coast.

The councils will work closely with the Department of Transport and Planning and Transport Accident Commission over four-years to identify, plan, develop and deliver more road safety upgrades on local

OPINION

roads across Victoria.

“Our Safe Local Roads and Streets Program is fostering new relationships between local governments and the Department of Transport and Planning and Transport Accident Commission, so they have the tools in place to deliver the safety improvements needed to

LENSCAPE

THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN

Thumbs down

To the council who put a school crossing outside a brand new primary school but won’t put one at the new high school as their excuses are not enough students, never mind that we have had many near misses of students and cars plus a couple of hit luckily for the students they were OK. A big school that has over 800 students with lots more to come over the next three years and they won’t put in two school crossings to keep our kids safe.

Thumbs up

For getting the road finally duplicated.

Thumbs up

Cos I didn’t see anyone this week walk bare foot in Coles!!

Thumbs down

You can’t even get out of your street in the morning with these stupid roadworks.

Thumbs down

Theweekaftercounciltalkaboutthe lack of “canopy” in Casey, there out cutting back trees in our neighbourhood. Absolute ineptitude again!

Thumbs up

To Glenbrae Celtic Dancers who, along with City of Melbourne Highland Pipe Band, are doing us proud as our Australian representatives at the Festival interceltique de Lorient in France.

Thumbs down

To all the potholes around here causing damage to people’s cars.

reduce road trauma on local roads,“ Minister for Roads and Road Safety Melissa Horne said.

Local government authorities own and operate 87 per cent ofVictoria’s road network and around 33 per cent of road trauma happens on local council-managed roads each year.

Around 132,000km of Victoria’s road network is made up of local roads, making up 87 per cent.

Of the 179 road fatalities in Victoria this year, 90 have occurred on local roads.

The Andrew’s government said this is why the they are partnering with councils to make roads safer across the state.

“Everyone has a role to play when it comes to road safety, which is why we are working with councils across the state to support them in developing and building important safety upgrades to reduce road trauma and save lives on local roads,“ Head of Road Safety Victoria Marcelo Vidales said.

The $210 million package will design and deliver safety upgrades for communities including raised crossings, intersection upgrades, speed cushions, kerbing upgrades, pedestrian islands, safer speeds, roundabouts and other vital safety improvements.

A Safer Local Roads and Streets reference group will also be established to support the development of the planning framework, investment guidelines, tools and resources that will support local governments.

All Victorian local governments will be progressively introduced to the program from late-2023, based on information from the initial expressions of interest process and councils’ willingness to participate in the program.

The program supports the government’s Road Safety Strategy 2021-2030, which aims to halve road deaths and reduce serious injuries by 2030 and eliminate road deaths by 2050.

Best of our businesses

From a beer brewery to a soap business, the finalists in this year’s Casey Business Awards cover a wide array of fields.

The Casey Business Awards recognise and honour business excellence across various industry sectors within Casey, while highlighting the role local businesses play in contributing to Casey’s economic growth and progress. This year’s theme, ‘Innovation and Resilience’, spotlights the capacity of local businesses to adapt, innovate, and persevere during challenging times, underscoring their unwavering commitment to driving progress within their industry.

The finalists across the six categories are:

· Customer Experience: Atura Dandenong, Brember Family Funerals and The Small Business Launching Pad;

· Environmental Sustainability: Bridgeford Group, Ecotrans and Liberty Equipment Hire;

Thumbs down

To the road bridge being built in Camms Road that causes severe vibration in the neighbouring houses.

Thumbs up

To ACE Foundation for all the Glasses and Meal Replacement items they donate to the City of Casey public schools.

Thumbs up

To Amstel Club for winning the best mental and social- wellbeing award for their inclusion programs with umbrella support.

Thumbs down

To the potholes throughout Casey spend more time avoiding them instead of watching traffic.

· Health andWellbeing: Best Of Home Care, Be Your Best Physiotherapy and Recovery in Mind;

· New Business: Blanc Bakery, Imagine Childcare & Kindergarten Cranbourne and Thirty Eight O Six Brewing;

· Professional Business Services: CFM Air Conditioning, Hey Dee Ho Music Casey and In the Game; and

· Small Business: Elemental Electronics, L’ada Soaps & Scents and The Arch Edit.

As the awards program enters its next phase, the judges will conduct a site visit of each of the 18 finalists to determine the award winners.

Winners will be announced and celebrated at the Casey Business Awards Gala event on 5 October 2023.

For more information on the finalists, visit businessincasey.com.au/casey-business-awards-2023-category-finalists

Thumbs up

For all the parents successfully getting the kids and themselves out of bed 20mins earlier each day so your driving pattern is not erratic so everyone safely gets where they need to go while we legitimately whinge about some of the unnecessary inconveniences of the duplication process.

Thumbs up

To all the wonderful people who make my life easier, who help and assist me as i am on a mobility scooter. Thank you.

Thumbs down

To the people allowing two cats to roam free at night. I am so scared for our possum friends, especially baby Muppet.

Doing it on one leg at Tooradin. 354153 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Intersections will be one aspect of orad safety in Casey under improvement. Intersection of South Gippsland Highway and Thompson’s Road. 353402

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Search for bargain petrol

By Matthew Sims

Casey motorists did not escape the rising cost of unleaded fuel over the past week, with the average price of fuel across Casey at about $2.0255.

Data from fuel price monitoring apps and websites, such as PetrolSpy Australia, show that the cost of unleaded fuel from many Casey outlets was between $1.759 and $2.249 over the past week.

Facebook commenters from across Casey were vocal in their frustration.

We are being robbed in Berwick... every week,“ Darren Pollard said.

“No one says a thing.

“The three servos are always so much more than anywhere else.“

Chantelle Park said Berwick’s fuel prices were a “complete rip off“.

“It goes up and down like a yo-yo it is a necessity and you need it to run your car,“ David Boyce said.

Lavanya Sriram said the prices often differ across the same brands of service stations, with a quick comparison showing a BP in Cranbourne North with a price of $1.82 and a nearby BP in Cranbourne West with a price of $2.25.

“Same day, same brand, same quality,“ she said.

“Not so far from one another.

“Prices are so different.“

Ms Sriram said she is always keeping an eye out for the prices to drop.

“I look out for the day it is closest to 180 cents, usually on a Tuesday or Wednesday.

“I know some friends who use app price locking.“

Speaking on buying an electric or hybrid vehicle, Jimbo Bau said switching to electric was not worth it yet.

“Going electric in this state is not viable as they put surcharge on cars, the high electricity rates plus the cost of the vehicles in this country,“ he said.

Bonnie Kovacevic also agreed that electric was not an appropriate option for most families.

“Electric is not an option as we are not equipped well enough to charge,“ she said.

“I cannot afford to shell out for a new electric 7-seater vehicle with the rise in costs of living for everything else.

“Unfortunately fuel is a non-negotiable.“

Commenter Kate said she bought a brandnew hybrid car about 12 months ago.

“All my other cars were five to 10 years old, so it’s the most expensive thing I’ve ever bought,“ she said.

“It is such a good investment!

“I buy the ethanol fuel about once a month instead of ULP every week, so my fuel costs are kept low.

“I feel bad for my son and his friends who are all struggling with older cars and high fuel prices.“

Australasian Convenience and Petroleum Marketers Association chief executive Mark McKenzie said motorists should always expect fuel prices to fluctuate and keep an eye out for the best deals.

“Contrary to what many assert, in any given local market, fuel prices typically vary by up to 8-10 cents per litre,“ he said.

“Consequently, motorists should always shop around and one of the best ways to do that is to use the various fuel price apps that are now available.“

Mr McKenzie said a number of factors influence the price of fuel, including reduced production post COVID, the Russia Ukraine issue, and uncertain global economic conditions, three unplanned outages of refineries (i.e. refinery shutdowns) in the Middle East and SE Asia and the Federal Government’s fuel excise.

“Fuel prices are impacted by global and national factors and wholesale fuel prices (determined almost entirely by global factors) account for an average of 85 per cent of the retail price motorists pay at the pump,“ he said.

“In all, there are more than 12 factors that impact fuel prices.“

On Tuesday 1 August, the federal fuel excise increased to 48.8 cents per litre, up from 46 cents per litre this time last year.

At a retail price of $2 per litre, the Federal Government collects 67 cents per litre, which makes it the single biggest cost component of the price motorists pay at the pump (i.e. ‘International prices’ include global oil price plus global refined price).

Mr McKenzie said different business models also dictate the different approaches to pricing, with 32 per cent are company owned and company operated, 30 per cent are dealer owned and dealer operated, 22 per cent are independent and 16 per cent are company owned and dealer operated.

“Different businesses adopt different approaches,“ he said.

“In all, the nation’s 8030 service stations are operated by more than 3400 independent businesses – the majority of whom are small and medium-sized enterprises – and they all compete with each other for motorist’s business.“

RACV corporate communications head Eleanor Colonico said it was hard to predict how fuel prices would change.

“The trend for fuel prices over the coming weeks will be subject to various influences, such as levels of competition in different suburbs, wholesale prices and taxes, and other factors,“ she said.

“There are often considerable price differences for fuel even in the same suburb or town.“

Picture: GENERIC

Dementia aid

Encara is pleased to announce a new Dementia Rehabilitation program for people living with Dementia in the communities of the Mornington Peninsula Shire and the City of Casey, aged over 65.The program is free of charge to eligible participants and is fully funded by the South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN). The in-home Dementia Rehabilitation program aims to improve access to allied health-led rehabilitation activities to support independence and wellbeing. Led by a team of allied health professionals, the program combines therapeutic interventions, education, and personalised care, integrating allied health with holistic modalities including art therapy and music therapy.

What is Dementia Rehabilitation?

The World Health Organisation defines rehabilitation as “a set of interventions designed to optimise functioning and reduce disability in individuals with health conditions (not just after an acute event) in interaction with their environment.” Rehabilitation helps people to maximise their independence, relationships, and quality of life. It gives people opportunities to retain or regain skills and activities theymayhavelostorbeatriskoflosing.Rehabilitationincludessupportingpeopletodevelopalternate strategies and supporting care partners. Why is this program needed?

Dementia is a significant and growing health and aged care issue in Australia that has a substantial impact on the health and quality of life of people with the condition, as well as their family and friends. As the condition progresses, the functional ability of an individual with dementia declines, eventually resulting in the reliance on care providers for all aspects of daily living. In south eastern Melbourne, approximately 11,000 people are living with a diagnosis of dementia, with nearly a third of this group residing in the LGAs of the Mornington Peninsula Shire and the City of Casey. The Royal Commission into Aged Care and Dementia guidelines recommend optimising independence and

wellbeing through access to allied health professionals. Without treatment, people with dementia may decline faster and enter aged care facilities earlier.

What support will the program provide?

The Dementia Rehabilitation Program runs over 12 weeks and offers personalised care, evidence based interventions, and a collaborative approach led by a team of allied health professionals. The program aims to empower individuals with reablement and engagement activities whilst supporting their families and care partners with education about living with dementia.

The program includes:

· Expert team of caring professionals specialised in dementia care;

· Personalised interventions to promote independence and quality of life;

· Home visits by OccupationalTherapists to assess and support daily living activities;

· Podiatry assessment and ongoing therapy for comfortable footwear and overall foot care;

· Physiotherapy sessions to improve balance, strength, and mobility;

· Access to additional allied health services, including Dietetics and Speech Therapy;

· Ongoing care plans post program;

· Aromatherapy, Art Therapy and Music Therapy; and

· Ongoing education and support for participants and their families

How to make a referral

The program is now open for referrals, with the first intake commencing in July 2023. People aged 65+ years old living with dementia in the Mornington Peninsula Shire and City of Casey are eligible for the Dementia Rehabilitation Program. To find out more, or make a referral, visit Encara’s website - www.encara.com.au or give our team a call on 1300 761 965 If you have an enquiry about the program please email dementia@encara.com.au.

Shop local - Lynbrook Village

In an age dominated by supermarkets and multinational chains, it is heartening to witness the rise of dedicated local businesses that prioritise quality, community, and sustainability. Two such shining examples are Mick, proprietor of Gippsland Premium Meats, and Hussain, the proud owner and operator of Lynbrook Fruit Plaza.

Mick and Hussain have not only chosen to operate businesses in the Lynbrook area but raise their young families here. Gippsland Premium Meats, is a haven for meat lovers seeking high-quality, locally sourced produce.

Mick’s commitment to sourcing premium meats from nearby farms not only supports local farmers but also ensures customers get the freshest and most delicious cuts possible.

Hussain’s, Lynbrook Fruit Plaza, is a paradise for health-conscious shoppers seeking fresh fruits and vegetables. Hussain takes pride in offering an extensive range of locally grown, organic, and seasonal produce.

By doing so, he not only supports local farmers and suppliers but also encourages the community to embrace a healthier lifestyle. Leftover produce is collected by local charities and church groups ensuring that not only are those in need are supported but waste is reduced.

Let’s support local retailers like Mick and Hussain! By doing so, we not only ensure access to high quality products but also build stronger, more vibrant communities that cherish their uniqueness and uphold the values of sustainability and togetherness.

So, the next time you plan your shopping, consider stepping into these local gems, and experience firsthand the joys of supporting local businesses. Shop Local, Shop Lynbrook Village!

Hussain, the proud owner and operator of Lynbrook Fruit Plaza.

Mick, proprietor of Gippsland Premium Meats.

Making a real connection

See Country through the lens of our First Nations people in this touring exhibition on loan from TarraWarra Museum of Art.

WILAM BIIK, which means‘Home Country’ in the Woiwurrung language of the Wurundjeri people, invites visitors to appreciate how first nations people see, listen and connect to Country.

The exhibition features new work from nine contemporary artists and is curated by Wurundjeri, Dja Dja Wurrung and Ngurai Illum Wurrung woman Stacie Piper.

Artists include Paola Balla (WembaWemba,

Gundijtmara), Deanne Gilson (Wadawurrung), Kent Morris (Barkindji), Glenda Nicholls (Ngarrindjeri, Yorta Yorta), Steven Rhall (Taungurung), Nannette Shaw (Tyereelore, Trawoolway, Bunurong), Kim Wandin (Wurundjeri), Arika Waulu (Gunditjmara, Djapwurrung, Gunnai), and the Djirri Djirri Wurundjeri Women’s Dance Group (Wurundjeri, Dja Dja Wurrung, Ngurai Illum Wurrung).

Ms Piper said experiencing Country through a First Nations lens provided an opportunity to affirm and re-establish a fundamental connection with Country.

“My hope is that each person walks away inspired, in awe of the beauty of Country, and empowered with a personal sense of connection and responsibility.”

WILAM BIIK is on display now until Friday, 8 September and is the final stop on a twoyear, state-wide tour.

From the earth to the sky, the next exhibition at Walker Street Gallery is Planetary Gestures.

Through this group exhibition, artists direct us to where the sea meets the sun and dare us to imagine a future that respects the many

EXHIBITION

perspectives derived from the different custodians of the planet.

Cycles of movement and time will be explored by local and international artists, including Amrita Hepi, Susie Losch, Raqs Media Collective, Rirkrit Tiravanija, Jimmy John Thaiday and Trevor Yeung.

Planetary Gestures runs from 26 September to 3 November.

Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre is at 1-9 Walker St, Dandenong. Visit greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/arts for more information.

Left: Nannette Shaw (Tyereelore, Trawoolway and Boonwurrung/Bunurong), ‘Kelp Vessel’ 2021, kelp, native Tasmanian wood, river reed 13 x 21 x 14 cm. Courtesy of the artist. Photograph: Andrew Curtis Right: Kent Morris (Barkindji), ‘Barkindji Blue Sky - Ancestral Connections #4’ (detail) 2019, giclee print on rag paper. Edition of

cm. Courtesy of the artist and Vivien Anderson Gallery.

Connect to our Country at Walker Street Gallery. WILAM BIIK gallery view,2023. Courtesy of artists. Rags Media Collective,Deep Breath Film Stills,gallery view.

High unemployment rates

By Emily Laing

Casey’s unemployment rates have been higher than state and national averages every year since 2010, and 2023 is proving no different.

In the quarter to March 2023, Casey’s unemployment rate was 4.5 per cent, higher than that ofVictoria (3.7 per cent) and Australia (3.6 per cent).

During the pandemic quarter to March 2021, Casey sat at a huge 7.8 per cent, despite the state and national averages sitting between 6.6-6.7 per cent.

The trend has lasted over a decade, and local organisations have different ideas about what could be contributing to the inflated statistic.

Wise Employment Business Manager Lisa Ryan said the driving forces behind unemployment are “multi-faceted“.

“The inability to afford a car and with the vast majority not having a driver’s licence limits job opportunities, as they rely on public transport with limited schedules,“ she said.

“Physical limitations, such as mobility issues or chronic pain, and mental challenges like anxiety or PTSD, affect their ability to perform certain job tasks.

“Moreover, many jobs require prior experience, making it challenging for those without relevant work history.“

City of Casey Acting Manager Growth and Investment Daniel Fokkens said Casey’s high cultural and linguistic diversity challenges may play a part.

“The City of Casey is the most populated local government area in Victoria, with close to 30 per cent of the population from CALD backgrounds,“ he said.

“It has been difficult for some residents from our CALD community to secure meaningful work due to limited local work experience and a lack of awareness about working in

specific industries.

“Many residents are also ineligible to participate in government funded employment services due to visa conditions.“

However Mr Fokkens said there are options for those facing these difficulties.

“In the effort to help combat unemployment levels in the City of Casey, Council facilitates industry information sessions for the community, where they can hear direct from the employers about their industry and the jobs on offer,“ Mr Fokkens said.

“We also engage with local businesses to assist in making their recruitment process more simplified and inclusive.

“Therearealsoanumberoffreecareercounselling services available to residents through the State Government Skills and Job Centre program to assist them in identifying their goals

and providing pathways to employment.“

Ms Ryan said challenges facing the CALD community “compound the unemployment issue“.

“Limited English proficiency hampers their job prospects, and cultural differences in job application and workplace interactions can create difficulties and discrimination,“ she said.

“Additionally, despite being highly skilled and experienced, some face the frustration of their qualifications not being recognised in Australia, resulting in applying for entry-level positions only.“

Community Information and Support Cranbourne’s Leanne Petrides said she has witnessed the upward trend in unemployment over the past decade.

“We have certainly seen unemployment in-

creasing over that period,“ she said.

“Many people are employed in retail/service industries and often on a casual basis which is hit hard during downturns.

“The current cost of living crisis is seeing more competition for part-time jobs as people look for second jobs or leave retirement to look for work.“

Ms Petrides said government payments are also getting in the way of meaningful employment.

“JobSeeker as a payment is just not enough, and is actually even a barrier for serious job seeking activities,“ she said.

A report from the University of New South Wales and the Australian Council of Social Service found 60 per cent of individuals living on JobSeeker payments are living below the poverty line.

This is even higher (72 per cent) for those living on parenting payments, and also affects 34 per cent of those living onYouth Allowance.

Those on JobSeeker receive a reported $269 per week below the poverty line, while those on Youth Allowance are an enormous $390 per week below the minimum liveable wage.

With inflation hitting petrol prices, housing and groceries, the “breadline“ payments are less and less effective for staying afloat.

Ms Ryan likewise said she has seen the cost of living crisis“significantly“ affectingWise Employment participants, “leaving them with limited funds after paying rent, leading to tough choices between paying bills or buying food“.

“This financial strain has led to mental health issues like increased anxiety and depression,“ she said.

“The situation is exacerbated by the rental housing crisis, forcing people to find alternative, generally substandard, accommodation, often opting for shared living or seeking support from family and friends or facing homelessness.”

‘Most rewarding step you will take’: Changing the narrative

A drug and alcohol support program, Path2Home, launched in Cranbourne West on Monday 7 August.

Nas Recovery Centre, a community based alcohol and other drugs (AOD) and mental health treatment in Greater Melbourne has brought the Path2Home project to Cranbourne, specifically targeting the African communities.

The eight week program is targeted to support the vulnerable African populationyouth from 15 years of age and up along with their families.

Managing director, Nyachan Nyak said the launch “demonstrated success“ and “reflected the need“ for the program in Casey.

“Over 40 people had turned up despite it being a more private event,“ she said.

“People continually reached out and had a genuine interest in Path2Home.

“It was very successful.“

Cranbourne was chosen as the new home for the program as the team saw a gap missing in crucial care for Casey’s migrant African population.

“City of Casey is home to many migrants, especially the African population, and the lifestyle shift may come with struggles and issues that develop into a need for help,“ Ms Nyak said.

“Mental health and substance abuse does not discriminate and this community are experiencing their fair share of these issues and seeking little to no help, due to many barriers.

“Here at Nas Recovery Centre, we want to close that gap by providing culturally tailored wrap around support that is evidence based and flexible.“

Ms Nyak said she understands seeking help can be a difficult choice to make.

“However it also may be the most rewarding step you will take,“ she said.

“People do not recover in isolation and we can’t solve all problems overnight, but you can begin to move forward through seeking help.

“We will guide you through the entire re-

covery process and provide you with the support you need to achieve your recovery goals, all we ask of you, is to give recovery a chance.“

Participants of the program are able to attend three days a week to participate in group therapies as well as being offered individual support.

“We provide comprehensive assessment and intake services, education, information and advocacy to consumers of substance use disorder and associated mental health challenges,“ Ms Nyak said.

The program also delivers social events for clients to re-integrate with the community in healthy ways.

Path2Home was launched with the help of Department of Justice and Community Safety to provide tailored rehab program, necessary resources and therapeutic guidance to the youth struggling with alcohol and other drugs (AOD) related issues.

“We are dedicated to creating a safe and inclusive space where individuals can overcome substance disorders and mental health

challenges,” Ms Nyak said.

“Our treatment services are culturally sensitive, community-based and are targeted to improve outcomes, reduce offending rates and foster the overall well-being of African communities.”

Nas Recovery Centre also offer family support, case management, drugs and alcohol intensive day programs, counselling, road safety behaviour change and much more.

Nas Recovery Centre can be reached by phone and email.

Charles Frimpong and Nyachan Nyak from Nas Recovery Centre. 351468

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Sixty per cent of individuals on JobSeeker are living below the poverty line.

Picture: GENERIC

Pentavite* Kids Daily Calcium + Vitamin D3, Daily Multivitamin or Daily Immune Support 60 Gummies

Blackmores* A Fall Asleep 60 Tablets B Deep Sleep 60 Tablets C Beauty Sleep 60 Capsules

SPECIALS ON SALE FROM 9TH - 23RD AUGUST 2023. IN STORE ONLY. AVAILABLE AT PARTICIPATING DISCOUNT DRUG STORES. NOT ALL ITEMS AVAILABLE FROM ALL STORES. FAILURE BY SUPPLIER TO DELIVER OR OTHER UNINTENTIONAL CAUSES MAY RESULT IN SOME ITEMS IN THIS CATALOGUE BEING UNAVAILABLE. UNLESS OTHERWISE STATED ACCESSORIES SHOWN ARE NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE. PRICES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO CORRECT PRINTING ERRORS. VALUE CALCULATIONS ARE BASED ON RECOMMENDED RETAIL VALUE AS PROVIDED BY SUPPLIERS. ALL CATALOGUE PRICES ARE GST INCLUSIVE. PRODUCTS MAY VARY FROM STORE TO STORE AND ARE SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY. ^SAVINGS CALCULATED BASED ON THE RECOMMENDED RETAIL PRICE AS PROVIDED BY THE SUPPLIER AND NOT NECESSARILY PREVIOUS IN STORE PRICE. * ALWAYS READ THE LABEL. FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. THIS MEDICINE MAY NOT BE RIGHT FOR YOU, READ THE LABEL BEFORE PURCHASE. IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST, TALK TO YOUR HEALTH PROFESSIONAL. INCORRECT USE COULD BE HARMFUL.

cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

Thursday, 17 August, 2023

Academy a Hallam gem

The Hallam Secondary College Sports Academy is one of the longest running and most successful programs of its type inVictoria.

Many graduating students have had successful careers either as professional athletes or in associated sports-related occupations.

Ourprogramhashelpednumerousathletes get drafted into the AFL/AFLW and NRL while also providing opportunities for students to enrol in several US College sporting programs.

Our number one focus is academic performance and excellence.

We provide an extensive range of educational options under the new VCE model, including a range of exciting pathway options whilst assisting students in pursuing a career in the sports industry.

The new VCE model is underpinned by applied, hands-on learning in HPE, Year 10 sports science and more than 15 unique offerings in vocational education and training. We have strong links with Universities, TAFEs, apprenticeships, registered training organisations, state sports organisations, community and elite sporting clubs, organisations, and various talent pathways.

Our sports have a range of external elite coaches, focusing on athlete development and developing good people in our community.

The Sports Academy is a select entry program.

Students interested in becoming a student of the Academy must go through an interview and screening process and adhere to their academic studies, individual learning plans and strict criteria set by the College.

Students must provide an academic history, sporting background and references to ensure that this is the right program for them

before being selected.

Students are also required to attend SelectionTrials on (DatesTBC). Note students must

be enrolled as full time Hallam Senior College students before being accepted into the sports academy.

2024 Applications are now open for students in years 10-12. Please see the website for more information. Note places are limited.

Hallam Secondary College Sports Academy. 2024 Applications are now open for students in years 10-12.

FOCUS ON … EDUCATION CHOICES

Vibrant learning community

Cranbourne Secondary College is a dynamic learning community committed to equipping students so they can grow, contribute meaningfully, and enjoy life in the world they encounter.

The College delivers an outstanding and holistic educational program that integrates academic, social, emotional, and moral learning.

The College mission is to equip learners for a fulfilling life by developing their intellectual, social, emotional, and moral intelligence. The broad, personalised curriculum and pathway options are delivered in a caring and engaging learning environment underpinned by a community culture of inclusion and participation.

Living our values of care, learning, community, and contribution is integral to the process as is our honouring of student voice. Ensuring students influence their school experience and learning journey is important to us because that’s what empowers them and makes all the difference to their learning outcomes. It’s why our students are increasingly motivated and happy at school.

Our teaching and learning know-how implemented in modern, fit-for-purpose facilities and a safe, genuinely caring context gives us our edge. Evidence-informed learning and positive behaviour frameworks ensure teachers and students know what they must do to get the best out of themselves. This enables our students to develop their goals into meaningful pathways beyond school.

We’re continually building on our strong and proud history, going from strength to strength by ensuring the education we deliver in partnership with parents, educational experts and members of the wider community remains real, relevant, innovative, and impactful.

Recently, the College has benefitted from

a range of upgrades to facilities and grounds resulting in high-quality learning and recreational spaces for students as well as a new two court stadium that includes retractable seat-

ing for approximately 1000 students. A further $9 million upgrade will be occurring through 2023 and 2024.

Book a tour to find out more about our ex-

cellent programs and to experience our wonderful facilities.

At Cranbourne Secondary College we are a respectful, responsible, learning community.

A dynamic learning community at Cranbourne Secondary College.

Narre Warren & District Family History Group AGM

Members and friends are invited to join in person or via Zoom to hear the story of The Melbourne Socialite and the Turkish Diplomat.

Patrick Ferry tells the story of the whirlwind romance of Florence (a member of a very prominent Victorian squatter family) and Chefik (the Turkish diplomat) while demonstrating the various types of records held at the National Archives of Australia (NAA). Members and friends are invited to join for lunch at noon at L’Arte Central, with the presentation starting at 2pm, followed by the AGM. Lunches must be ordered by the Thursday prior and paid for on the day.

Patrick Ferry’s presentation will open the meeting at 2 pm, our Annual General Meeting will follow. · For more information, contact secretary@nwfhg.org.au.

Book Week Costume Competition

Show Connected Libraries your best Book Week outfits and enter their Dress Up competition to be in with the chance to win some great prizes!

How To Enter:

Take a photo of your child dressed as their favourite book character in celebration of Book Week 2023.

Post the photo to Facebook or Instagram, telling Connected Libraries which book character your child is dressing up as.

You must tag their Facebook page or Instagram page in your post to enter.

Your child will go into the draw to win a Robinsons Book Store Voucher.

If you are posting on Instagram, make sure your account is not on private.

Facebook/Instagram stories will not be entered into the competition.

Prizes are Robinson’s Bookshop Vouchers ranging from $25-$100.

· You have to be in it to win it!

Gridiron in the South East

The South Eastern Predators Gridiron Club is welcoming people of all ages to come and learn a new sport in an inclusive and friendly environment.

No experience necessary.

1 Newport Road, Clayton South.

· For more information, visit sepredatorsgridiron. com.au

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 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 amphitheatre - with 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.

25 Years of Song

The Casey Choir Spring Concert is being held at the Lakeview Room in the Cardinia Cultural Cen-

NEWS

tre 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

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 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.

Father’s

Day Dining at Amstel

Join us in our bistro and celebrate Dad!

We have dining options available for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

Breakfast 8am - 10am

Lunch 11.30am - 2.30pm

Dinner 5pm - 8.30pm

These are all a la carte and will have our delicious bistro menu with so many choices for all the family. We will be sharing our breakfast menu with you soon.

Bookings required via our online booking system.

Bookings are limited to a maximum of 20 per booking.

Book now to avoid missing out.

· Amstel Club, 1000 Cranbourne-Frankston Road, Cranbourne on Sunday 3 September, 8am-8:30pm. Picture: SUPPLIED

· 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 Road Recreation Reserve; $5.

Bewick 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

Pilates

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

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

Classes held Tuesday afternoons and Wednesday evenings.

$90 per term (10 weeks).

· Hall 2, Balla Balla Community Centre, Selandra Blvd, Clyde North on Tuesdays 1pm-2pm 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, 5:30pm6:45pm and 7pm-8:15pm.

Science Week

Intro to EV3 Coding & Robotics facilitated by StemBuddy Coding & Robotics.

Afternoon tea will be provided. Free event, book in early as session will fill fast on 5990 0900.

· Balla Balla Community Centre, Selandra Blvd, Clyde North on Sunday 27th August 1pm -3pm.

Kids Pastry Cooking

This fun hands on Children’s cooking program will teach your child the basics of pastry making - how to use yeast, make rough puff pastry and shortcrust pastry.

Week 1: cinnamon scrolls and an appletart. Week 2: mini cookies and cream cheesecake and cinnamon and sugar flavoured palminers. Starting 2nd September for 2 weeks. Phone 5990 0900 - only a few places still available.

· Balla Balla Community Centre, Selandra Blvd, Clyde North.

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 6:30pm-7:15pm

Road to recycled plastics

By Matthew Sims

A number of Casey’s road surfaces will soon be mixed with recycled plastics as part of a new RMIT University-led project.

Supported by the Australian Research Council, Austroads and nine other Victorian councils, the project will incorporate recycled plastic from consumer and industrial waste, including notoriously stubborn soft plastics, into asphalt as a performance enhancer.

Project lead and RMIT Associate Professor Filippo Giustozzi said the team will also produce best-practice guidelines on the use of recycled plastics in asphalt roads.

“These guidelines will enable local governments, which control 80 per cent of the nation’s roads, to begin wide-scale adoption of this innovative recycling solution,“ he said.

“If Australia’s 537 local governments each used a small amount of recycled plastic in the many roads they resurface each year, then nationally we’ll have created a large end-market for recycled plastic.“

Associate Professor Guustozzi said extensive laboratory studies conducted by RMIT for Austroads show these mixes are mechanically, chemically, and environmentally sound.

“The performance of roads can actually be improved with the additions of recycled ma-

terial, such as plastic and rubber, to be more durable against traffic and resistant against ageing,“ he said.

“These studies tell us that adding specific types of plastic in the right way can generate greater rutting and fatigue resistance.

“In some instances, the performance of the mix was similar to some of the more expensive polymersusedinroadsandsubstantiallyhigher than conventional asphalt mixes.“

The partnership with Victorian councils and Austroads will now translate these findings into applied solutions that enhance the sustainability of our roads.

Austroads chief executive Geoff Allan said

there was increasing interest in exploring the viability of repurposing recycled waste plastic.

“This project builds on the work completed last year that confirmed recycled plastics can be successfully incorporated in road infrastructure without detrimental effects on the environment, the health and safety of the workers, or the future recyclability of plasticmodified asphalt,“ he said.

“A major contribution of this project will be to develop evidence-based guidance that will provide certainty to road managers about the use of recycled plastics in road surfacing applications and thus lay the foundations for this solution to be embraced nationally.“

Nurturing students

At Marnebek School, we firmly believe that students must be at the centre of everything we do, and as such, we take great pride in the diverse array of services and programs we offer to empower our students for a brighter future.

Our dedicated teaching staff are supported by a large Allied Health team consisting of speech pathologists, occupational therapists, a physiotherapist, and a psychologist to ensure we can differentiate classroom learning tasks to the students point of need and ensure they can access the Victorian Curriculum.

One of our school’s strengths is individualised attention and support. Recognising that every student has unique strengths, challenges, and aspirations, we have carefully designed personalised learning plans to cater to their specific needs.

Our committed team of educators and specialists work collaboratively to provide tailored guidance and resources, ensuring that each student reaches their full potential.

We prioritise creating an environment that nurtures resilience, respect, and responsibility among students, staff, and parents alike. By instilling these values, we aim to cultivate a positive learning atmosphere where students feel safe to express themselves and embrace diversity.

Integral to our approach is the strong partnership we build with parents and caregivers. We firmly believe that effective education is

a collaborative effort, and we actively involve parents in their child’s learning journey. Regular communication, parent-teacher conferences, and workshops by our Allied Health team, ensure that we work together to support

Empowering Lives

Monarch Community Health Service: Empowering Lives with Unmatched Dedication and Comprehensive Support.

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

At MCHS, we understand the importance of community engagement and the role it plays in enhancing one’s quality of life.

Our community access support services are designed to facilitate meaningful participation and social inclusion.We work closely with individuals to identify their interests and connect them with relevant community resources, activities, and events. By fostering social connections and expanding opportunities, we empower individuals to lead fulfilling lives.

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

Our experienced team provides personalised support and training in areas such as communication, personal hygiene, household management, budgeting, and more. Through tailored programs and individualised attention, we empower individuals to acquire and enhance life skills, enabling them to reach their full potential.

Recognising that every individual’s needs are unique, MCHS offers in-home support and personal care services to ensure comfort, dignity, and assistance tailored to specific requirements.

Our compassionate and trained support workers provide personalised care, assisting with activities of daily living, personal hygiene, and household tasks.

Whether you require assistance for a few hours a day or round-the-clock support, our dedicated team is committed to providing reliable and compassionate care within the comfort of your own home.

Our team at MCHS is driven by a shared passion to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals with disabilities. Through our comprehensive services, including community access support, development of life skills,

and in-home support/personal care, we strive to address the unique needs of each individual and empower them to achieve their goals.

When you choose MCHS as your disability support provider, you gain access to a network of professionals who are dedicated to understanding your needs and tailoring their support accordingly. Our commitment to personalised care, combined with a comprehensive range of services, sets us apart and ensures that you receive the holistic support necessary to lead an independent, fulfilling life.

Experience the difference that MCHS can make in your life. Contact us today to discuss your individual needs and embark on a journey of empowerment, skill development, and enhanced well-being. Together, we will pave the way for your success and enable you to thrive in all aspects of life.

· https://monarchcommunityhealthservice.

au/

· hello@monarchcommunityhealthservice.au

· +61 493 518 386

Monarch Community Health Service: Empowering Lives with Unmatched Dedication and Comprehensive Support.

student’s growth and progress. Certain conditions apply to be eligible to attend the school. Our staff are happy to discuss the enrolment criteria further with you. If you have any queries concerning the enrolment

process, please do not hesitate to contact us on 5996 3858 or fill out an Enrolment Enquiry Form on our website: www.marnebek.vic.edu. au or contact us via email: marnebek.sch.cranbourne@education.vic.gov.au

students with additional learning needs.

Our school vision is to create a stimulating and engaging environment that enables students to embrace learning and achieve their full potential. We do this by building students’ social, emotional and physical wellbeing, empowering them to become active and valued members of their community.

Students are at the centre of our school. They develop a broad range of leadership skills and confidence to become active in their learning. Our school values – Resilience, Respect and Responsibility – underpin the school vision.

We encourage and welcome you to contact the school to arrange a tour. Please see our contact details below.

Marnebek School, Cranbourne East.

Back pay for workers

The Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO) has sanctioned a waste management company more than $375,000 after they five vulnerable migrant workers were underpaid almost $200,000 for work at waste management facilities in Melbourne, including a facility in Hallam.

School upgrade welcome

Cranbourne South Primary School students now have the facilities they need for a great start in life with the Andrews Labor Government completing an upgrade at their school.

Jordan Crugnale MP for Bass and Pauline Richards MP for Cranbourne officially opened the Cranbourne South Primary School’s $5.9M million upgrade.

This project includes refurbished and modernised classrooms and facilities, a new administration and learning building, and upgraded carpark and playing fields.

“This transformational project will ensure the true spirit of Cranbourne South is embedded in the design of the new buildings, with First Nations artwork and light filled spaces putting students at the heart of this beautiful school,“ Ms Richards said.

“We’re making sure that our schools have the best facilities, and that every child is given every chance to succeed.”

School Captains conducted an in-depth tour of the new build highlighting what they love about their school and how the new facilities will enhance their education.

“What an honour to join with this amazing school community in the official celebrations today,“ Ms Crugnale said.

“Thank you to the wonderful School Captains, Principal Corcoran, her dedicated team for being so welcoming - the tour was insightful, imbued with meaning and wonderful to see pride of place at its best too.“

In the past nine years, the Andrews Labor Government has invested $14.9 billion in building new schools and more than 1,700 school upgrades. The government says the investment will ensure every child can get a great education, schools can cater for Victoria’s growing population and government schools are better equipped to prepare students for the 21st century.

The workers were underpaid a total of $194,249 over a period of just 20 months in 2018 and 2019 when they were employed to sort waste at facilities in Dandenong and Hallam, which were then operated by Polytrade.

The five affected workers were on protection visas and bridging visas (pending approval of applications for protection visas) after arriving in Australia as refugees from southern Asia and spoke limited English.

The Federal Court has imposed penalties of:

· $138,600 against Polytrade, now known as PT 349 Pty Ltd, for being an accessory in the underpayment of the workers;

· $200,375 against PTES 928 Pty Ltd (formerly Polytrade Employment Services Pty Ltd) for directly underpaying the workers - PTES 928

Pty Ltd was set up as a labour provider, employing workers and supplying them to work at Polytrade on an on-hire basis; and

· $27,720 and $8820 respectively, against Polytrade’s owners, husband-and-wife Mr Man Sang Chen and Ms Pui Shan Ho, for also being accessories in the underpayments.

PTES 928 Pty Ltd has now back-paid the five underpaid workers in full and has also made a further $2.2 million in back-payment to workers not involved in the FWO’s legal action who had been underpaid since 2012.

Acting FairWork Ombudsman Kristen Hannah said blatant underpayment of visa holders in Australia was not tolerated.

“We treat underpayment of migrant workers particularly seriously,“ Ms Hannah said.

“These workers can be vulnerable if they are unaware of their entitlements or reluctant to complain.

“Visa holders have the same workplace rights as all other workers.“

Ms Hannah said workers with any concerns were welcome to contact the FWO for free advice and assistance.

“Any employer that blatantly underpays migrant workers’ basic entitlements risks facing significant penalties,“ she said.

“The five workers here were paid only slightly more than half of what they were entitled to.“

FWO investigated after receiving a referral from the Australian Workers Union.

Inspectors discovered that the five affected employees were paid a flat rate of $22 per hour regardless of when they performed work, despite being required to perform night, weekend and public holiday work. Some of the workers gave evidence in court that they worked 12-hour shifts, usually six and sometimes seven days per week.

This resulted in underpayment of workers’ minimum wage rate; overtime rates; loadings for casual, night and shift work; and penalty rates for weekend and public holiday work, under the Waste Management Award 2010.

Laws relating to minimum engagement periods, advising employees of their terms of engagement, payment of superannuation entitlements, record-keeping and issuing pay slips in the required form were also breached.

Justice John Snaden said the conduct was “wantonly naïve, at best“.

“At worst, it involved a deliberate and cavalier disregard of important Award safety net obligations,“ he said.

Justice Snaden said the five workers were paid between 53 and 58 per cent of what they were required to be paid under the Award.

“On any view, those are damning figures,“ he said.

Justice Snaden also said the contraventions were “made worse by considering the personal circumstances of the relevant employees”.

“All are from migrant backgrounds and have limited to negligible written and verbal English skills,“ he said.

Justice Snaden found that Polytrade and Mr Cheng “must pay heavy prices” for their active involvement in the contraventions, “not merely to ensure that they are brought to account for what they did; but also to serve as a warning to others who might be minded to be similarly involved in egregious Award underpayments”.

The FWO filed 138 litigations involving visa holder workers, and secured $15 million in court-ordered penalties in visa holder litigations, in the six financial years to June 2023.

Employers and employees can visit www. fairwork.gov.au or call the Fair Work Infoline on 13 13 94 for free advice and assistance.

Anti-welfare rhetoric change

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Bruce Labor MP Julian Hill – whose electorate included as many as 5678 Robodebt victims – says attitudes to welfare recipients must change.

In a speech to Federal Parliament on 3 August, Mr Hill echoed the Robodebt Royal Commissioner’s words that politicians needed to abandon the political narrative of ‘taxpayer versus welfare recipient’.

“Politicians need to lead a change in social attitudes to people receiving welfare payments.

“Anti-welfare rhetoric is easy populism and useful for campaign purposes. It is not recent; nor is it confined to one side of politics.”

Government stats suggest as many as 9393 Robodebt victims lived in Greater Dandenong and Casey.

Mr Hill spoke on the impact in Bruce, “one of the most disadvantaged electorates in the country”.

“Do those opposite really know what it’s like to sit down week after week with vulnerable poor people sent fake debt notices for $20,000 or more for money they didn’t owe?

“How many years does it take to repay a debt like that at $10 a week? It’s more than 38 years.

“But it’s not even the financial pain or the trauma—it’s the sense of injustice and fairness, and the further loss of dignity.”

In July, Royal Commissioner Catherine

Holmes handed down a report on Robodebt –an ‘income-averaging’ measure used by Centrelink to illegally claim $2 billion in purported overpayments from 433,000 welfare recipients between 2015-19.

“Robodebt was a crude and cruel mechanism, neither fair nor legal, and it made many people feel like criminals,” the report stated.

“In essence, people were traumatised on the off-chance they might owe money.”

In 2020, the Federal Government settled a $112 million class action to compensate Robodebt victims.

FormerPrimeMinisterScottMorrisonrecently said he was the subject of a“political lynching” by the current Government over the report.

“This campaign of political lynching has once again included the weaponisation on quasi-legal process to launder the government’s political vindictiveness,” he told Parliament.

“They need to move on.

“For the government to now condemn me for holding a view that they shared and sustained for more than three years after I left the portfolio is rank hypocrisy.”

Mr Hill said the former PM was casting himself as the “victim in chief”.

“He is not the victim. The real victims were Australians sent fake debt notices for money they did not owe.

“The real victims were those Australians who committed suicide, and those who loved them.”

L to R: School Captain Arizona Dean, School Captain Giselle Da Silva, Jordan Crugnale MP, Pauline Richards MP, Smudge the therapy dog, School Captain Lara Alder and School Captain Mia Elliot. Picture: SUPPLIED

Brave firefighters honoured

The Country Fire Authority (CFA) has celebrated the recognition of the efforts of about 300 volunteer firefighters and staff members during the 2019-2020 Australian bushfire crisis.

At a ceremony on Saturday 12 August at Berwick Church of Christ in Berwick, firefighters from across Victoria’s South East in CFA’s District 8, including Cardinia and Casey, received the National Emergency Medal, which recognises significant or sustained service to others in a nationally significant Australian emergency.

Deputy Chief Officer Trevor Owen presented the medals and said they were an important recognition of the valiant efforts of CFA members.

“The National Emergency Medal is a formal recognition that Australia appreciates the efforts and contributions of CFA members during the 2019-2020 bushfire crisis,” he said.

“It is a great honour to receive this medal and I hope it goes a small way to thanking our members for their service.”

Deputy Chief Officer Owen said he was proud of all CFA members’ efforts.

“As firefighters, we save lives, homes and our precious environment,” he said.

“There is no greater sacrifice than putting your life on the line to save and help another.

“As volunteer firefighters, we respond 24/7, 365 days of the year because we choose to.

“We’re ordinary people doing extraordinary things in the service and protection of others.”

Nar Nar Goon brigade secretary and brigade safety co-ordinator Kylie Shanks was among the recipients and said being a recipient of an National Emergency Medal was a great honour.

“When we volunteer, we make the choice to support our communities in all situations,” she said.

“We are not after recognition; we just want to support our communities during their most vulnerable times.”

Pearcedale brigade members were among the National Emergency Medal recipients.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Narre Warren Fire Brigade brother and sister Jayden and Brittaney Keen received a National Emergency Medal.

Narre Warren Fire Brigade’s Brittaney Keen.

Narre Warren Fire Brigade’s Anastasia Barker were among the National Emergency Medal recipients.

CFA Deputy Chief Officer Trevor Owen.

CFA Deputy Chief Officer Trevor Owen presented Berwick Fire Brigade’s Craig Durdin with a National Emergency Medal.

MP backs cannabis bid

A South Eastern Metropolitan MP is advocating for cannabis law reforms, after research revealed half of Australians think cannabis should be taxed and regulated like alcohol and tobacco.

Legalise Cannabis Victoria MP for the Upper House, Rachel Payne, said the party is seeking “sensible and meaningful reform” to end the criminalisation of personal use cannabis.

It comes as new Essential Report research found 53 per cent of Labor voters and nearly 50 per cent of Coalition voters were in agreement over cannabis regulation.

Ms Payne said the polling shows the “Australian war on drugs does not work”.

“The cost of prohibition from cannabis-related law enforcement spending takes not only an enormous economic toll, but it does nothing for harm minimisation in our community,” she said.

“If a majority of voters think the same, isn’t it time our government got on the right side of history by reforming outdated laws, in line with community expectations?”

Just 26 per cent of people are opposed to the regulation and taxation of cannabis, the report found, offering a signal that many Australians would support change in the field.

The polling follows the Legalise Cannabis Party simultaneously introducing their Regulation of Cannabis for Personal Adult Use Bill 2023 inVictoria, New SouthWales andWestern Australia in June.

The fresh polling is indicative of a positive trend in support for cannabis legislation reform, with the last National Drug Strategy Household Survey recording support of adult cannabis use of 41 per cent; up from 35 per cent in 2016.

The 2019 National Drug Strategy Household Survey indicated 74 per cent of Australians believe the consumption of cannabis should not be a criminal offence.

Fellow Legal Cannabis Party MP David Ettershank said the numbers were a clear vindication of support for the party’s reform calls.

“The Australian population is clearly well ahead of our major political parties and it’s time for those parties to catch up and act,” he said.

“Instead of the perpetual criminalisation and marginalisaton of people for cannabis use, Australians want taxation and regulation.

“Our regulation bill will be a first step in ending the cannabis black market, and a first step in cannabis education and community safety.”

‘Lost opportunity’

From page 1

Projects often assessed as having a risk of compromise such usually have a capital investment of $5 million to $30 million, according to NSW Planning.

The Cranbourne West site was sold in late 2021.

“The 123 hectares of employment land at 635 Hall Road and 690Western Port Highway that was subject to the rezoning proposal to residential under Planning Scheme Amendment C219, which was ultimately refused by the Minister for Planning, was sold late 2021,“ said City of Casey Acting Manager Planning and Building Kathryn Seirlis.

“A planning permit application was submitted to Council in late 2022 to allow for Bulk Earthworks, Removal of NativeVegetation and Development of a Retarding Basin.

“The application is going through the planning process and has not yet been determined.“

Ms Seirlis said the application will be considered in accordance with the current industrial zoning and Cranbourne West Precinct Structure Plan.

In a council meeting agenda document for Tuesday 15 August, council noted its “commitment to respond to recommendations made by IBAC in relation to its investigation into Operation Sandon“.

Progress “against the implementation of this action“ is expected to feature in quarterly reports to the community as part of the 2023/24 Annual Action Plan.

“Where legislative reform has been recommended in relation to planning matters, council welcomes the opportunity to provide input to this process along with the broader local government sector,“ the document said.

The IBAC operation also examined how effective Victoria’s prevention strategies are in ensuring integrity in the state’s planning process.

Operation Sandon found that in relation to planning matters, council processes were insufficient to prevent improper conduct, manage conflicts of interest and maintain integrity.

In response, the IBAC has made new planning recommendations aiming to reduce the incentive for corrupt conduct in planning matters, create more transparency around justification for future propos-

als, and delegate decision making to council planning officers and an independent panel.

The Operation Sandon report made 34 recommendations to address corruption, including 11 specific to planning.

IBAC has recommended that the Premier report publicly on the action taken in response to the relevant recommendations by 27 January 2025, and that the Minister for Planning and relevant departments report to IBAC on the implementation of their relevant recommendations within 12 months.

The City of Casey council reported local policies will soon reflect procedures to “strengthen governance controls“.

“Consistent with Recommendation 18, council confirms that ongoing training akin to the recommended mid-term refresher training is being embedded in work underway supporting the organisation and community to Return to Elected Council from late 2024,“ the council wrote.

“This includes a robust induction and ongoing training program to support elected Councillors.“

In response to Recommendation 23, the council confirmed “en-bloc voting“ has been “a retired practice“ since Casey’s Councillors were dismissed in 2020.

The council also addressed Recommendation 24, which will see council amend its practice in relation to the recording of council minutes “to capture the names of Councillors who speak on each motion and the names of those who vote for and against each motion irrespective of whether a division is called.“

Changes will be made consistent with clauses 68.14 and 68.7 of the council’s Governance Rules.

Former Casey Councillor Steve Beardon. Picture: SUPPLIED

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Send your application letter and resume to:

planning-applications

Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the Responsible Authority.

An objection must:

•be made to the Responsible Authority in writing to, Manager Planning, P.O. Box 1000, Narre Warren 3805 or emailed to caseycc@casey.vic.gov.au

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

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

The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before: 4 September 2023

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

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

• 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.

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12623034-SM30-23

SPORT Netball clubs not wanted

By Marcus Uhe

Berwick and Beaconsfield Netball Club’s future in the Outer East Football Netball League could be sealed as early as Monday 21 August at a league board meeting.

As part of the League’s structural review, the majority of football and netball clubs confirmed that their preference is to host as many fixtures as possible with both netball and football at home on the same day.

A subsequent question regarding the feasibility of standalone netball clubs was then asked, where a majority of clubs expressed that standalone netball clubs created fixturing issues.

Following the feedback from clubs, draft recommendations on the future of the competitions were distributed to clubs, who will be given the opportunity to provide feedback on the recommendations this week.

Berwick and Beaconsfield, as standalone netball clubs, were not included in the drafted plans.

Monday night’s board meeting will consider the feedback provided by clubs on the drafts, before making a decision on the final recommendations.

President of the Berwick Netball Club, Lani Mannay said the club did not anticipate the results of the survey and were left disappointed by their exclusion to the draft.

“We are one of the few clubs that field all 10 teams in the league – all our juniors, A B C and D grade,” Mannay said.

“We thought, we’re valuable to the league because we field all our teams, we do all the right things, we host our games, we’ve managed to survive without a football club, we’re still financial, we pay our bills.

“We thought we would get the support from

everyone to keep us in the league, because we actually do the right thing, and we substantiate them having a junior league.

“It doesn’t seem justifiable when you’ve got clubs there that, all along we’ve been told that you have to field all 10 teams, and if you don’t field all 10 teams then you’re probably looking at not being part of the league anymore.

“We did all that, the only thing was, we didn’t follow a football club, but that wasn’t our choice.

“We didn’t choose for Berwick to leave or go to another league.”

Berwick Football Club chose to leave the Outer East competition for the Eastern Foot-

Casey Cannons ambushed

By Jonty Ralphsmith

It was an unsuccessful trip to Werribee for both the men and women Casey Cannons.

The women went down 3-2, with Skye McDonald slotting both the goals.

It’s a surprise defeat for the women which comprehensively beat Werribee 4-0 earlier in the season, among a slew of strong performances against lower ranked teams.

The men, meanwhile, have had a difficult period, but challenged top-placedWerribee, falling short 2-1 with skipper Matthew Light the goal scorer.

Next up for the women is Knox, which they beat 3-0 last time, while the men have a winnable game against Eastern Christian Hockey Organisation.

Women

Results: Brunswick 1 v Yarra Valley 4, Knox 1 v North West 1, Monash University 1 v Mornington Peninsula 2, Werribee 3 v Casey 2, PEGS 2 v WestVic 3

Ladder: Mornington Peninsula 39, Yarra Valley 38, Casey 35, Monash University 29, Knox 19, Brunswick 18, Werribee 17, WestVic 16, PEGS 11, North West 10

Fixture: North West v Monash University, Casey v Knox, Mornington Peninsula v Brunswick, Werribee v WestVic, Yarra Valley v PEGS

Men

Results: Eastern Christian Hockey Organisation 2 v North West 4, PEGS 2 v Old Xaverians 1, Brunswick 1 v Yarra Valley 1, Monash University 0 v Melbourne Sikhs 5, Werribee 2 v Casey 1

Ladder: Melbourne Sikhs 39, PEGS 34, Old Xaverians 31, Brunswick 30, North West 29, Monash University 26, Werribee 16, Yarra Valley 11 Eastern Christian Hockey Organisation 8, Casey 3

Fixture: Melbourne Sikhs v Brunswick, YarraValley v PEGS, NorthWest v Monash University, Casey v Eastern Christian Hockey Organisation, Werribee v Old Xaverians

ball Netball League (EFNL) in 2020 and Beaconsfield Football Club followed suit in 2021, but the netball clubs chose to stay.

Mannay said there was “no way” that Berwick could field teams in the EFNL and the club did not wish to play on a Friday night.

“Lot of those clubs that were in the South East Football Netball League (SEFNL) got pushed out to play at Dingley or play on a Friday night,” she said.

“That’s not what we play for; we play so that we can be part of that footy-netball atmosphere.

“I can’t speak for Beaconsfield, but for us it was a no-brainer (to stay).

“We wouldn’t be able to do that, we’d end up like Cranbourne.”

Cranbourne fields a single senior netball side in the Southern Football Netball League’s OpenB1 competition.

Outer East CEO Brett Connell sympathised with Berwick and Beaconsfield, stressing that both are operationally sound and well-run, but insisted that the league was beholden to act in the best interests of the majority of clubs.

“It’s not a conversation that we wanted to have, but the majority of clubs wanted that, and that’s what this structural review was about,” Connell said.

“We’re not in the business of stopping or decreasing participation.

“From our angle, we’re losing two strong netball clubs; we’re losing 250-300 participants at a senior level.

“It’s not a decision we made lightly, and what we did really focus on also was the junior structures we had in the South East that we would still support, as we said we would.

“We had to go with the workshop feedback as well as the survey results which were pretty convincing, saying that (clubs) want to play all (their) games at home on one day, and that standalone netball is an issue.”

Mannay said the club would not enter their juniors into the Outer East competition if they felt that the senior netballers were “not welcome”.

The club confirmed in a statement on its Facebook page on Wednesday 9 August that they will participate in a competitive netball competition in 2024 and will “ensure our players, families and community are always our first priority.”

Beaconsfield Netball Club was contacted for comment.

Casey outmuscles United

Seventh placed Casey has backed up a strong 5-1 win with a 7-0 smashing of Pakenham on Saturday.

The Panthers scored two first half goals before overpowering the visitors with a five goal second half onslaught.

Both teams have top-two tests next week, with Casey to face Mentone and Pakenham will be up against Hampton Park, which consigned it to a 20-0 loss earlier in the season.

Meanwhile, with finals on the horizon, and possibly something more, top-placed Hampton Park continued its strong form with a 6-0 pile-on against Mount Eliza.

The Sparrows were forced to work hard against a side which has struggled for momentum this year after two early goals, but finally

broke away late.

They scored two more goals in the space of 60 seconds with 15 minutes of regular time remaining, before two more in the dying stages.

Results: Aspendale 2 v Seaford 3, Bunyip District 3 v Rosebud 4, Mentone 1 v Mount Martha 0, Hampton Park 6 v Mount Eliza 0, Casey 7 v Pakenham 0.

Ladder: Hampton Park United Sparrows 50, Mentone 39, Seaford 34, Aspendale 32, Rosebud 32, Bunyip District 29, Casey 26, Mount Martha 25, Mount Eliza 13, Pakenham United 9, Barton 1.

Fixture: Mount Eliza v Barton, Mount Martha v Aspendale, Pakenham v Hampton Park, Mentone v Casey, Seaford v Bunyip District.

Pakenham was outclassed

Casey skipper Matthew Light has done what he can in a tough season for the Cannons. 330473

Picture: GARY SISSONS

Berwick Netball Club’s future in the Outer East Football Netball League could be decided as early as next week. 331979 Picture: ROB CAREW

SPORT

George Grey snagged one goal and had 15 touches for Casey on Sunday. 325648

Demons slip in standings

By Marcus Uhe

A disastrous second half in front of goal saw the Casey Demons blow a golden opportunity to guarantee a finals position against Carlton on Sunday, falling eight points short of the Blues at Ikon Park.

The Demons kicked 3.13 in a frustrating second half of a contest they trailed all afternoon, finishing 9.15 69 to 11.11 77.

The Blues led by 15 points midway through the first quarter before goals to Charlie Spargo and Kynan Brown within 90 seconds of one-another put the Demons back in the hunt, Kynan displaying some fancy footwork by snapping on the spin.

The Blues made the running again early in the second term, a volley to former Essendon small forward Ned Cahill taking the lead to 26 points after 17 minutes.

The game threatened to blow out but the Demons leaders stood tall when required, answering back with four of the next five to close the half only nine points down.

Mitch White, Luke Dunstan, Matt Buntine and Bailey Laurie all did their best to kick-start a sputtering Demons outfit that was being held at arms-length by Carlton.

Goals to Matthew Jefferson and George Grey gave Casey two of the first three of the second half and they continued to snap at the heels of a dogged Carlton outfit playing to keep their finals chances alive.

Clean ball movement saw the Demons take the ball from end-to-end on both occasions at speed, catching the Carlton defence off-guard.

Grey’s major in the ninth minute took Casey’s score to 8.3 before trouble set in.

It’s next 10 scores were behinds, with eight misses and two rushed, Josh Schachethemajorculpritwiththreebehinds.

Carlton didn’t have its kicking boots on either, managing just 2.5 in that period, but the fine margins proved critical.

A goal to Tom McDonald in the 13th minute of the fourth quarter put the Demons out of their misery, and reduced the lead to just four points, but was quickly responded to by Carlton to restore a 10-point buffer.

Grey missed a chance to cut the lead to under a kick in the 24th minute, before the Blues held on for a gripping victory, despite losing the inside 50 count 17-5 in the final term.

Not a single Demon kicked multiple goals in a disappointing display.

Dunstan was as industrious as ever, finishing the contest with 39 disposals, one goal and seven tackles to lead the way for the Demons, Laurie not far behind with 30 disposals and a goal himself.

While the reigning champions remain likely to qualify, sitting a game clear of eighth position in sixth, they are now at risk of playing in the wildcard round, two sudden-death clashes pitting seventh against tenth and eighth against ninth, before the final series gets underway.

Defeating Carlton would have meant the lowest they could finish was seventh, with one round remaining in the homeand-away campaign.

The Demons close their home-andaway season on Sunday against Brisbane at home.

Eagles lose thriller to determined Dees

By Jonty Ralphsmith

The race to the top five looks over in Division 1 of the Southern Football Netball League (SFNL), but the seedings remain up in the air after an intriguing Saturday of footy.

Ahead of clashes with lowly Mordialloc and St Kilda City, Cranbourne had a chance to all but secure second spot on the ladder at Newcomen Road, but went down to Springvale Districts by eight points.

That has seen Dingley rise to second following its win over Chelsea, while the Dees are also in with a shot of finishing behind Cheltenham, if they beat Port Melbourne away, then St Paul’s McKinnon at home.

Cranbourne is now forced to hope one of Dingley or Springvale Districts slip up to avoid the elimination final.

The Eagles had their chances against a steely Springvale Districts, but were made to rue a 2.7 to 0.1 third quarter which kept the Dees ahead by seven at the last change.

Cranbourne then had the initial play in the last quarter, before the Demons wrested momentum and got a confidence-boosting win.

“We’ve always had the belief, but (Saturday) showed we can win no matter who we pick,” coach Kris Thompson said.

With Matt Wetering out for the season, the absence of George Angelopoulos was amplified, for he is another experienced avenue to goal.

But Stefan Feehan was swung forward and kicked two and was among eight goal kickers.

“The reason we won was because of our selflessness and our pressure was outstanding,” Thompson said.

“We haven’t had to kick high scores, we defended the ground really well and have gone with more of a hybrid forward line.”

Strongly-built teenager Angus Cooper didn’t hit the scoreboard but was impressive on debut, while Jeremy Dang brought pressure and Liam Giove laid nine tackles in the victory.

Adam Read, Daniel Helmore and Corey Hutchinson kicked a goal each and were each crucial to the intensity brought, while Mason Russell put forward a skipper’s performance and Daniel Spence was praised for his effort in the backline.

For Cranbourne, Zak Roscoe showed glimpses of his best early, with a damaging 10 disposal, two goal opening term in the midfield, while Dillan Bass and Jake Cowburn were named best.

Marc Holt was kept to just one goal by John Walker, while Kirk Dickson didn’t play, but positively, small forward Tyson Barry played his first game back in the reserves and could be an x-factor in September.

Meanwhile, Port Melbourne pipped St Paul’s McKinnon by a point, so are in prime position to finish fifth, while an eight goal sec-

ond half staved off a Chelsea Heights challenge for the Dingoes.

Results R16: Chelsea Heights 10.7 67 v Dingley 13.10 88, Mordialloc 0.6 6 v Cheltenham 17.16 118, Port Melbourne 11.10 76 v St Paul’s McKinnon 10.15 75, St Kilda City 7.6 48 v Bentleigh 7.12 54, Springvale Districts 9.9 63 v Cranbourne 7.16 58.

Ladder: Cheltenham 60, Dingley 46, Springvale 46, Cranbourne 44, Port Melbourne 40, St Paul’s McKinnon 36, Mordialloc 16, Bentleigh 16, Chelsea 12, St Kilda City 4 Fixture R17: Bentleigh v Chelsea Heights, Port Melbourne v Springvale Districts, Cheltenham v St Kilda City, Cranbourne v Mordialloc, St Paul’s McKinnon v Dingley

Locals continue to shine for Vic Country

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Vic Country has gone down 5.6 36 to 7.10 52 in its second game of the Girls Under-18 National Championships in a tight tussle against Vic Metro.

The game featured 10 locals as well as Dandenong coach Josh Moore mentoring the forwards and Gippy’s Nathan Boyd taking care of the midfielders.

For the second time in the carnival, Gippsland bottom-ager Ash Centra ran amok, amassing a team-high 23 disposals, to go with three clearances and four marks.

In a game that was largely tight and congested, devoid of free-flowing play, every time Centra got her hands on the footy, she stood out.

Mikayla Williamson was also excellent with her toughness at the contest and intent to break away, and she was fed for much of the day by Rays’ teammate Elli Symonds.

Symonds was also among the better play-

ers, winning the ruck duel comfortably. She returned to the field after sending a shiver up onlookers’ spines when she came from the ground in the third quarter with what looked like a nasty arm injury.

After missing the first game, Ruby Murdoch played off halfback and had a difficult assignment, matched up on top-five probable Alyssia Pisano.

Murdoch, however, didn’t lower her colours, as Pisano, who has kicked bags of goals for fun this year, was kept to just the one.

Although quieter than the first game, Gippsland defender Amber Schutte had her moments.

Key forward Sophie Butterworth, meanwhile, waxed well with teammates inside 50, leading into space on several occasions and converting both her shots on goal.

Also in action for the Stingrays were: Jemma Reynolds, Bianca Lyne, Zoe Besanko and Meg Robertson Ash Centra

Picture: ROB CAREW

Springvale Districts proved too good for Cranbourne. 353281

Picture: ROB CAREW

Liam Giove and Zak Roscoe contest a hardball.

Excitement builds for Cup

By David Nagel

CranbourneTurf Club (CTC) has been recharging its batteries through winter and is about to embark on an exciting journey towards the feature event on its racing calendar in late November.

Thursday 17 August marks 100 days until the $500,000 Ladbrokes Cranbourne Cup will be run over the mile journey of 1600-metres on Saturday 25 November.

The Ladbrokes Cranbourne Cup will again hold the status of a Saturday standalone metropolitan meeting, meaning the focus of Spring racing will be on Cranbourne.

The quality of the fields, both in the Cup and in the support races, has been excellent in recent years and the CTC is looking forward to another quality day of racing on track, and outstanding entertainment off it.

Cup Day at Cranbourne is one of the biggest social events in the City of Casey and the CTC is looking forward to making this year’s Cup the biggest edition yet.

Interest in Cranbourne Cup Day has already been extremely high and hospitality sales are well ahead of last year.

The CTC has also been busy - in collaboration with the Cranbourne Harness Racing Club, Racing Victoria, Harness Racing Victoria and the State Government – in playing a key role in the development of new horse stalls

at the track.

The horse stalls are an exciting addition to the facilities at Cranbourne, and will be offi-

Doveton hitting peak form

By Jonty Ralphsmith

That’s what Doveton needed.

After being challenged early by Keysborough, capable of producing ominous footy for short periods, the Doves kicked 12 goals to two after the main break, playing the game on their own terms.

It was the perfect way to celebrate club stalwart Michael Henry’s 200th game with his team putting their highest score on the board since a round seven win at Caulfield’s small Koornang Park.

Ruck Dylan Chapman exposed the gulf in class between he and his direct opponent, helping Doveton smash Keysborough in clearances all day at Reid Oval.

Yet the hosts’ ball movement and inside 50 connection in the first half kept a high-octane Keysborough in the hunt.

Cooper Sheppard was hot early for the visitors, able to capitalise when his team rebounded from defence and got it to the open side of the ground.

“I gave them a pretty big spray at halftime,” coach Michael Cardamone revealed.

“I probably took it out on the whiteboard a little bit but it wasn’t the way we wanted to play.

“To Keysborough’s credit, they moved the ball really well and got us on the spread, and in and under, and were harder at the contest in the first half.

“I just said ‘we have to bring that hunger and get the game on our terms’ and I think we did that in the second half which is pleasing.”

There was a stark shift in the second half, with five third quarter goals to two giving the Doves a 20-point lead at three-quarter-time, before a Daniel Zajac conversion early in the last made a certainty of the result.

It was party time in the last quarter, with Henry taking a screamer, Johns kicking his first goal for the club and a Harley Primrose goal from outside 50 all getting the loyal Doves supporters loud and rowdy.

Keysborough ran out of puff late as Doveton was able to control possession, take uncontested marks and cruise to the finish line.

That allowed Ricky Johnson’s energy as a high half-forward and Deekon Stapleton, moved into the midfield rotation after starting in defence, to shine.

Matthew Stapleton was an intercepting force and held the back line together all day, while Johns was the key beneficiary of Chapman’s tap-work, helping the Doves bring their trademark toughness.

“He’s been playing well but his form probably hasn’t been to the level he would want,” Cardamone said of Matthew Stapleton.

“He’s taken some time to ease into it after not playing (in) the first eight to ten weeks, but he’s an ex captain of the club and premiership player, and he’s super important for us and someone we’ll rely on heavily in finals.”

The ‘Burra proved that after a tumultuous season, their ladder position belies what they are capable of, youthful faces and better fitness in 2024 likely to help put them on the path back up the ladder.

Anthony Brannan’s experience in attack was a big factor in their competitiveness in the first half, while Brice Giacomantonio showed positive signs in just his second game of the season.

Doveton has Black Rock next week to finish the home and away season, before a week off, Saturday’s win guaranteeing them third spot on the ladder.

The club is confident it will regain Jake Basa, Will Smith, Max Sheppard and Sam Muirhead to hit the first final running.

Keysborough, meanwhile, will finish the season at home against Hampton Park, who they consigned to their most disappointing game of the season in the first bout between the sides.

The Spiders, meanwhile, had a comfortable home win over Caulfield, led by a bag of six to Kyle Hendy.

Results: East Brighton 21.26 152 v Black Rock

5.7 37, Doveton Doves 14.12 96 v Keysborough

6.8 44, Hampton Park 16.8 104 v Caulfield 7.7 49, Highett 5.17 47 v Skye 3.7 25, Murrumbeena 12.12 84 v East Malvern 12.9 81

Ladder: East Brighton 64, Murrumbeena 56, Doveton Doves 48, Hampton Park 40, Highett 40, Skye 26, East Malvern 24, Caulfield 24, Keysborough 14, Black Rock 4

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

cially opened by Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards this Friday 18 August.

Horse welfare and amenities for trainers,

strappers and staff, as well as owners and patrons, was at the forefront of the design and the contributing parties are delighted with how the project has come together.

The CTC will also return to its core business of racing this weekend, with an eight-race card set down for Sunday 20 August.

With the Spring Carnival just around the corner, some of the big names of the Cranbourne training ranks will be in attendance as they begin to fine-tune their preparations for Spring glory.

Cranbourne trainers had a huge Spring carnival last year, highlighted by the win of Gold Trip in the Melbourne Cup.

Local trainers Ciaron Maher and Dave Eustace would love to add a second loving-cup to the mantlepiece of their training headquarters.

The Cranbourne Training Centre is an important part of club operation and continues to play a pivotal role in the broader racing industry.The centre produced over 1000 winners in the 2022/23 season including 12 Group-1 winners.

The Cranbourne training ranks will be bolstered shortly, with the CTC looking forward to welcoming Te Akau Racing to its community.

Te Akau is a successful multinational racing entity and the CTC is proud that it has chosen Cranbourne as the base for its Australian operation.

Gippsland future star sets the bar high in rep footy

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Gippsland prime mover Xavier Lindsay was among eight local players to take part in a boys Under-17 Vic Country representative match on Sunday.

Lindsay has been in a rich vein of form for the Power, averaging 29 touches and six tackles in the last four games as an inside midfielder.

He again showed his ability to slip through stoppage and gather loose groundballs against Queensland.

A 2022 Under-16 All-Australian player, Lindsay’s transition to the higher level has been seamless as he has naturally put on size and looks threatening when his team is chaining possession.

After showing he had the physicality to match it with some of the best in the country in the first half, he was moved to his preferred wing position after the main break.

The 17-year-old’s game sense and nous stood out, as did his work rate as he clogged up defensive 50 on multiple occasions and directly set up a third quarter goal with a snap in traffic.

He also found himself on his own for large chunks late in the game as Vic Country clung to a narrow lead, briefly surrendered it, then won with a kick after the siren to Murray’s Jack Whitlock.

Dandenong midfielder-forward Cooper Hynes had two important moments of composure in the clinches in defensive 50 late to resist Queensland scores.

When the visitors kicked what looked to be the winning goal, Hynes, the son of former Frankston VFL captain John, released a teammate to get it going forward from centre for Vic Country.

Tough midfielder Harvey Langford also found plenty of the footy as he has done all year for the Stingrays.

Narre North Foxes junior Noah Mraz also showed glimpses, rotating through the ruck and as a key defender who took some important marks, while Harrison Doughton was competitive in attack.

Gippsland also had halfback Max Stobie and wingers Max Donohue and Julian Callahan in action, while Alix Tairu was squad listed but absent on game day through injury.

Uncle Brynn scored a runaway win in the 2022 Ladbrokes Cranbourne Cup. The countdown is now on with this year’s cup now 100 days away. 307621 Picture: ROB CAREW

Xavier Lindsay was impressive on Sunday. 353840 Picture: GRAHAM DENHOLM/AFL PHOTOS

Brodie Howie celebrates his goal after Matthew Stapleton set it up from defence.

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Picture: ROB CAREW

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