News - Cranbourne Star News - 7th September 2023

Devon Meadows Primary School students celebrated their fathers with an early breakfast and a kick of the footy, as part of their Father’s Day event on Thursday 31 August.

Violent robbery

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

A teenager who was part of a gang of up to 16 who inflicted a “violent” and “shocking” robbery of a driver in Cranbourne has been jailed.

Toang Duac, 19, pleaded guilty at the Victorian County Court to armed robbery, violent disorder and car theft as well as possessing cannabis and a counterfeit $100 note.

The 21-year-old victim had been driving

home from work in the early hours of 7 January 2022.

His 2012 Mercedes Benz was blocked in front and behind by two cars that stopped sideways across Stawell Street, Cranbourne.

As four youths approached his car, the victim ran away with his keys.

He was chased by up to 16 people to the Amazing Grace Hotel car park where he was brought to ground.

The attackers, including Duac, punched

and kicked him to the head and back multiple times.

At least three of the mob stabbed and slashed the victim in the lower back. As that occurred, Duac stole off with the victim’s Nike runners.

The gang also robbed the man of his phone, his car keys, and his Mercedes.

That night, one of the group tried to use the victim’s ATM card - which was found in his car - at a McDonald’s in Cranbourne North.

Duac was wearing the stolen shoes when he was arrested with two others later that morning in Cranbourne East. He and others were identified on their own Snapchat videos after the crime.

He was also found with a kitchen knife, a small amount of cannabis and a photocopied $100 note.

The Mercedes was torched and abandoned in Tower Court, Noble Park two months later.

Continued page 4

Story page 16

Do you know someone in Casey who consistently goes above and beyond to make a difference?

An individual or group who demonstrates community spirit and contributes to making Casey a wonderful place to live? Then you should nominate them for a Casey Community Award. Nominations will be open from 9.00 am Monday 18 September until 5.00 pm on Monday 16 October. To learn more about the nomination categories, eligibility, and how to nominate an individual or group, please visit the Casey Community Awards page on the Casey Conversations website. If you need assistance with writing your nomination, please email caseycommawards@casey.vic.gov.au

AFLW at Casey Fields

The Melbourne Football Club have their sights set on Casey Fields, with the Dees taking on the Western Bulldogs at 3.05 pm on Saturday 16 September and the Adelaide Crows at 3.05 pm on Saturday 7 October.

Tickets to the game are $10.00 and under 18s are free. Show your demon spirit and come and cheer on the reigning AFLW premiers. For more information, visit our website.

2024 community facility hire

Looking to hire a space on a regular basis in 2024?

The City of Casey offers a range of facility hire options from large halls to small consulting spaces for your community group or organisation. Expressions of Interest are now open until Friday 29 September. To submit an application, please visit the community centres page on our website. For more information, please contact Council’s Community Facilities team on 9709 9288 or email facilitybookings@ casey.vic.gov.au

Club champs set to takeover Casey

The Under 14 National Basketball Championships, a partnership between Basketball Australia and Casey Basketball Association, is set to take centre stage at Casey Stadium.

To be held from 24 to 29 September, the week-long event is a wonderful opportunity for the local community to come along and watch the best 48 club teams from across the country compete against one another. For fixtures and tickets, please scan the QR code or visit the Basketball Australia website.

New Ground showcase

Bunjil Place is excited to present the 2023 New Ground commission program showcase exploring the theme of borders and boundaries.

Supported by the Sidney Myer Fund, the 2023 New Ground cohort have drawn on their connections to Casey, Cardinia and Dandenong to produce five unique projects. Through dance, spoken word, visual arts, theatre, media and film these artists reflect the depth, talent and experiences of the broader south east Melbourne arts community.

Saturday 16 September, 4.30 pm

Bunjil Place Studio and Library

For more information and to book your tickets, please visit the Bunjil Place website.

Image: Dominic Bui_Relative_photograph by Gabriel Lay.

Trinity targets teen thieves

By Matthew Sims

The South East has emerged as a hotspot for youth offenders arrested in relation to a number of burglaries and car thefts with police concerned about a new and “challenging” space where young children are chasing social media notoriety for their criminal activity.

Victoria Police has been running Operation Trinity across Melbourne since 25 March, leading to 1466 arrests, including 370 arrests in relation to burglaries and car thefts, 1096 arrests in relation to crimes such as drug offences and 45 breaches of bail identified.

Police have extended Operation Trinity to Saturday 4 November.

Southern Metro Region Rob Nazaretian said the operation had caused a drop in the number of burglaries and car thefts.

“These are important arrests which have seen about 30 offences a week reduced down to 18,” he said.

“It is a testament to the work of our members.

“We know how disconcerting it is.” Police have been actively monitoring four boys as part of Operation Trinity:

· A 13-year-old boy arrested 30 times since

2022, in relation to 80 burglary offences, 10 aggravated burglary offences, 16 theft of motor vehicles offences and three robbery offences;

· A 14-year-old boy arrested 13 times since 2022, in relation to 55 burglary offences, 16 aggravated burglary offences, 10 attempted aggravated burglary offences, four home invasion offences and 24 theft of motor vehicles offences;

· A 16-year-old boy arrested 47 times since 2022, in relation to 10 aggravated burglary offences, six attempted burglary offences, 42 theft of motor vehicles offences and his first criminal offences recorded at 10 years

of age; and

· A 16-year-old boy arrested 19 times since 2021, in relation to offences including four aggravated burglary offences, eight theft of motor vehicle offences, one armed robbery offence and one affray offence.

Inspector Nazaretian said most of the offending was driven by young offenders aged between 13 and 16 loosely organised over social media groups and platforms, with the overwhelming majority with no formal connection to known gangs.

“It’s about growing notoriety and social media kudos,” he said.

“We know that they’re associated with one another.

“There are a number of kids who represent a challenge to us.”

The number of car theft offences was the third highest in the Casey area last year, with 762 car theft offences reported, behind Melbourne’s CBD with 973 offences and Hume with 796 offences.

Inspector Nazaretian said other hotspots included Monash, Dandenong, Bayside and Kingston, with Dandenong seeing an increase of 126 car theft offences from 2021 to 2022.

“We’ll go to where the demand is,” he said.

“We know that these kids are very fluid and

dynamic in their activity.

“It is new, it is different, it is challenging.”

The offenders were also targeting more high-end vehicles in the more affluent areas of Melbourne, including BMW, Mercedes Benz, Volkswagen and Audi.

However, the Holden Commodore remained the number one target for theft, with 757 vehicles stolen during 2022, with Ford Falcon and Toyota Corolla in second and third place respectively.

Inspector Nazaretian said police were working with other groups such as social workers to target the factors behind what encourages youth offenders to engage in criminal activity.

“History has show that arresting children and incarcerating them has devastating results,” he said.

“It requires a balanced and nuanced approach.

“It’s unclear whether these efforts will turn anyone around.”

In 2022, Victoria Police recovered 76.6 per cent of all vehicles stolen out of 16,290 car theft offences reported.

In comparison to pre-pandemic figures, this represented an 18.8 per cent reduction from 20,056 offences reported during 2019.

It’s no porkie, these butchers are a cut above the rest

Hard work, a few secret ingredients and only using Australian pork has placed Griffin and Morris Village Butchers at the top across a number of categories in this year’s Australian Meat Industry Council (AMIC) Australian Charcuterie Excellence Awards.

The butchers took out the champion award in the pastrami category for their Wagyu pastrami, gold in the bacon category for their streaky bacon, gold in the boneless leg ham category, gold in the Kranski category for their smoked jalapeno chedder Kranski, bronze in the traditional leg ham category for their ham on the bone, bronze in the chorizo category for their smoked chorizo, bronze in the traditional bacon category for their long rindless bacon and silver in the short loin bacon category for their short cut rindless bacon.

Co-owner Steven Morris said the Wagyu pastrami was special as it used Sher Wagyu with a marble score of nine-plus.

“Sher is one of the best Wagyu in the country,” he said.

“That was quite an achievement for us.”

The team smokes the Wagyu for three hours before applying a special rub and slow cooking it for 10 hours in an oven.

Mr Morris said the team were proud of securing another gold medal for their boneless leg ham.

“Each year, we’ve held the benchmark of

getting a gold medal,” he said.

Mr Morris said one of the keys to their success was only using Australian pork.

“Our smoke ovens are the best in the world,” he said.

“We have great ingredients and incredible equipment.”

AMIC chief executive officer Patrick Hutchinson said the award entries showcased dedication and craftsmanship.

“This year saw double the entries in the Australian Charcuterie Excellence Awards compared to last year, showing how important the awards program is in recognising excellence within the flourishing smallgoods industry,” he said.

“Congratulations to all ACEA winners for their remarkable accomplishments.

“Our entrants’ pursuit of excellence is the cornerstone of our industry’s growth and success.”

The Australian Meat Industry Council (AMIC) is the sole peak Industry body representing the post-farm gate meat industry, including processors, smallgoods manufacturers, wholesalers and distributors through to independent retail butchers and exporters.

Steven Morris and Kerr Griffin with some of their award-winning meats. 357769

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Picture: JOE MASTROIANNI

South East hoon is jailed

By Corey Everitt

A serial hoon facing scores of charges from illegal ‘skid meets’ has been sentenced to three months’ jail.

Cooper Peatling, 25, faced the Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on Thursday 31 August. He pleaded guilty to offences such as reckless conduct endangering serious injury, theft of motor vehicle and property damage, and drug possession and incitement charges.

The offences were committed in areas such as Lynbrook, Keysborough, Truganina and Thomastown throughout 2021.

The court heard that Peatling was part of established hooning rings ‘South East Skids’ and ‘Northern Tea Party’.

They were known for informal meet-ups at industrial estates involving reckless driving and stunts in front of hundreds of people.

Peatling, who held a learner’s licence during the offences, would attend these meetings in a white Mazda van that was registered in his grandmother’s name.

He was apparently known in the community as the ‘One Stop Tyre Shop’ due to the van carrying car jacks and spare tyres for engagement in reckless driving.

Evidence constructed from police reports, data intercepts and from social media such as TikTok and Snapchat showed Peatling’s wellknown white van engaging in the burnouts

On 9 July 2021, the van attended a hooning meet at the intersection of Business Park Drive and Commercial Drive in Lynbrook, police told the court.

On nearby CCTV footage, the white van was seen to perform burnouts, figure-eights and flicking the van dangerously close to about 100 bystanders.

Peatling’s passenger allegedly ‘exited’ the vehicle briefly during the dangerous driving by

sitting on the window with their legs out and holding the roof racks.

Police arrived as Peatling performed a burnout. He promptly exited the intersection at speed, narrowly missing a pedestrian who had to run out of the van’s way.

Peatling would have learner plates displayed in the front and back of the vehicle, while covering the van’s registration plates during this incident.

The prosecution argued that Peatling was not just a participant but an architect of the hooning group’s activities, charging him with inciting others to perform dangerous driving.

He had sent Snapchat messages to call on other associates out to hooning events in the northern suburbs.

At the time, Peatling was on bail after being arrested for failing to appear before court over a suspended driving charge.

Defence lawyer Maria Cananzi argued the seriousness of the offences had been recognised by Peatling and his rehabilitation since being charged and bailed should be considered.

“He has effectively extricated himself from that environment, from those influences, rec-

ognising where he has found himself,” Ms Cananzi argued.

“There has been no further offending in relation to any use of motor vehicle.

“Thechangesinbehaviourhavebeenborne out and are evident to the court in other ways.”

The defence argued he had shown promising changes in his life, including maintaining a full-time job and strong ties to his family, who made a large presence at Peatling’s sentencing.

Magistrate John O’Callaghan said he did not consider Peatling as an ‘architect’ of the hooning meets but he took the list of dangerous driving very seriously.

“That is an entirely different category, significantly different category of serious when it comes to the actual conduct.

“I’m a country person, I was a country magistrate and I’ve seen things I can’t unsee in terms of what has been the consequences of young people.

“I come from that point of view of the seriousness of the offending and also the thefts and dishonesty types of matters.”

Mr O’Callaghan sentenced Peatling to three months’ jail, a community corrections order

and a $3000 fine.

“I don’t put you in the category of a person who wants to hurt people. In fact, my impression of you is that [you] are actually a quite good young fellow,” Mr O’Callaghan said.

“You have people that love you and continue to love you, and that is the strongest thing and the best thing I have heard.

“But actions have consequences, we know that as adults and you as a young man have to accept that.

“The consequences are that people could have lost their life, they could have been materially, substantially been hurt and have their lives affected, and if you think I’m exaggerating, I can tell you I have seen it.“

Mr O’Callaghan made a point of saying he calculated the maximum possible sentence for his charges, which was roughly 95 years and $200,000 in fines, to further demonstrate the seriousness of Peatling’s actions.

“I’ve given you a significant discount which takes into account your youth, your prospects of rehabilitation, I think you are genuinely sorry for what has happened, despite there could be an argument that you weren’t at the time, I think you’ve moved on a bit from then,” Mr O’Callaghan said to Peatling.

“I actually think you have a good future ahead of you. You might say he just sent me to jail and why would he think that? I actually do believe that, particularly because of your family, particularly because of your work.”

Peatling will be under a corrections order for 12 months after his jail time. The CCO includes 100 hours of unpaid community service.

His licence is suspended for 18 months.

Mr O’Callaghan ordered members to clear the court to give Peatling and his family a moment together before he was taken by court security.

Council’s controversial deal extended with recycler

By Sahar Foladi

Greater Dandenong Council has extended its contract with recycling contractor Polytrade Operations, which had been accused of underpaying refugees on visas.

The six-month extension passed at a council meeting on Monday 28 August, to allow the council further time to prepare a competitve tender process for its mixed recyclables processing services.

The contract, which was to end in September 2023, will be extended to 30 March 2024.

Polytrade was recently prosecuted in the Federal Court by the Fair Work Ombudsman for allegedly underpaying five refugees on visas of nearly $200,000 over 20 months at Dandenong and Hallam.

It was fined $138,600, its labour provider Polytrade Employment Services fined $200,375 and its husband-and-wife owners

Man Sang Chen and Pui Shan Ho were respectively fined $27,720 and $8,820.

Polytrade back-paid the five underpaid workers in full - and also backpaid other underpaid workers a further $2.2 million.

When the allegations surfaced, the council stood by its 10-year-contract with Polytrade. On 28 August, Cr Rhonda Garad raised the question of why the council was further extending the contract.

“That contract was novated about a year ago across to a new company called Regroup who are a national based waste company,” Greater Dandenong business, engineering and major projects director Paul Kearsley replied.

“They purchased Polytrade outright.

“What I can advise is that with regard to the inappropriate matters the previous company undertook, this council stood firm in regard to any comments made in regard to

Expressions of Interest (EOI)

for funding through Communities for Children CranbourneSupporting Cranbourne children and families.

Windermere is the Communities for Children (CfC) Facilitating Partner for Cranbourne. We are currently seeking applications from eligible organisations to deliver inclusive and accessible activities in the Cranbourne area, that lead to positive outcomes for children (0 to 12 years) and their families and have a focus on engaging with either:

- young parents up to the age of 24 years, or

- activities for children 0-12 years with disability or additional needs.

EOI deadline: 12pm, Thursday 21 September 2023

- evidence-based activities will be highly regarded. Please contact the CfC FP Cranbourne team for further information on the EOI requirements.

the inappropriate ways perhaps our residents were treated.”

Council had received correspondence from Regroup assuring them of an end to such activities, Mr Kearsley said.

He also mentioned that the fines imposed against Polytrade entities didn’t make up part of the 2022 transactions when Regroup acquired the assets.

“Regroup has not associated with this company and certainly not been exposed to the fines so the outcome does not have any impact on the liability of our business.

“Regroup regularly undertakes visa checks and ... assessments to ensure that they pay all staff the correct amount.

“We are confident we have the necessary systems in place to ensure these historic issue does not arise in the future.”

Mr Kearsley was hopeful that Regroup and a number of significant others will partici-

pate in the upcoming tender process.

“That decision in terms of who is chosen is a council decision and will be reported to the council,” Mr Kearsley said.

Cr Garad said she’s willing to accept the guarantee by the new owners but is also keen for the six-month extension to come to an end.

“The (workers) were in need of money they were working hard and they were ripped off knowingly by these really despicable people.

“On the other hand they were a big employer of refugees struggling to find jobs which is a positive and that’s why council was keen to trade with them.

“If we did it again that would be shameful and that is what we must prevent.

“I would be keen to know what level of due diligence is given, that whoever receives the contract ensures this doesn’t happen again.”

Violent robbery in Cranbourne

From page 1

The hospitalised victim eventually got over his injuries but was saddled with a $15,000 debt on his uninsured car as well as a bill for his ambulance ride.

Living in Cranbourne, the man stated he was reminded daily of the assault every time he drove past the crime scene.

In sentencing, Judge Damian Murphy said it was a “shocking crime” and a “gang crime” all too often fueled by youthful peer pressure.

From a stable, Christian home, Duac had been identified as a talented basketballer with hopes of playing US college basketball.

At the time of the robbery, he was cut off from his parents who were trapped overseas or interstate during a five-month Covid lockdown.

As a result, he had less supervision and fell into a “bad crowd”, Judge Murphy noted.

He had no prior convictions at the time. But Duac had since offended on bail and spent the bulk of his 19th year in adult custody.

“You are at a fork in the road in your life,” Judge Murphy said, noting that Duac’s basketball dreams had been disrupted. He urged him to break the bonds with young criminals.

Being just over 18 at the time, Duac faced mandatory jail for armed robbery in company of others. Several co-offenders were under 18.

It was best for Duac and the community to not risk being contaminated and institutionalised by a long stint in jail, the judge said.

“You’re going downhill, I want you going uphill to a good life in the best country in the world.”

Duac showed little evidence of remorse but for his guilty plea after a sentence indication, the judge noted.

He was jailed for six months, followed by an 18-month supervised CCO including a nonassociation order, drug and alcohol treatment and judicial monitoring.

His term includes 25 days’ pre-sentence detention.

Skid meets at Lynbrook and Keysborough attracted hundreds of bystanders close to the dangerous driving.

Hunter with his dad Brad White. 355304

Rare bird spotted

Cranbourne North birdwatcher Brad White and his son Hunter’s newest discovery has attracted significant attention to the River Gum Creek Reserve in Hampton Park, with a rare sighting of a Brown Honeyeater.

The first spotting in Melbourne occurred at about 4pm on Sunday 20 August.

Mr White said he was excited to bring more birdwatching activity to his home area of Casey.

“It was added to a few social media groups and hundreds of birders are flocking to the location,” he said.

“I think there has only been a handful of sightings in Victoria ever, but this is the first ever in the Melbourne Metro area.”

Between 11 and 15 centimetres in length, the Brown Honeyeater has a long curved bill, a yellowish white spot behind the eye and yellowish tail feathers.

Mr White has been birdwatching for about 10 years.

“I started in 2014 when I hiked the Overland Track in Tasmania with a group of great mates, spending the first handful of my young years in the country I have always been interested in nature and the outdoors, but after seeing a Pink Robin for the first time in real life, birds were definitely added to the life list of creatures to find and photograph,” he said.

“I’ve always liked photography, way back to my 35mm film SLR camera days but when I was asked to photograph a bird and miserably failed, I learned the lesson and caught the bug.

“Thanks to so many amazing birding friends I’m now up to over 600 species seen worldwide and most of them photographed, but still have a lot of Australia to explore.”

Mr White said he has enjoyed having his son join him on his birdwatching outings.

“Hunter is 12 and loves getting out and about on any adventure, birds, ants, rockpools, camping, the list goes on,” he said.

“He finds immense joy in seeing other people happy and loves giving praise and living in the moment.

“I think an outdoor hobby is super important in a kids life, the environment and our flora and fauna is so important.”

Mr White said there were a number of benefits for people of all ages to get outdoors and enjoy birdwatching.

“I believe it’s great for mental and physical health, getting outside, testing the body and the eyes, meeting like-minded people and opening your eyes to what is actually out there,” he said.

“I think being aware of your surroundings helps you to grow and appreciate what we have right in front of us, best of all, it’s free.”

MrWhite said he was looking forward to his next new or rare discovery in Casey.

“The huge increase in housing and clearing land in Casey is hurting the environment, but we have to work with what we have,” he said.

“I think it’s going to be super tough in the future beating the newly found Brown Honeyeater, but we’ll keep trying.”

SBI fined after odour incident

When a temporary seal on a landfill gas extraction well failed, odour escaped the site, leading to an influx of calls to EPA, the environmental watchdog said.

Only after an inspection of the site did the company provide relevant information, the EPA said. EPA South Metropolitan Melbourne region manager Viranga Abeywickrema said the odour had an impact on the local community.

“Under its licence, SBI must immediately notify EPA of issues like this,“ she said.

“We need to be informed so we can be assured appropriate action is taking place.“

The fine came just a few weeks after EPA escalated regulatory action against the company commencing proceedings in the Supreme Court against SBI Landfill Pty Ltd and its directors, alleging a range of serious non-compliances with Victoria’s environment protection laws. EPA has been actively regulating the SBI Cranbourne site since March 2022 when numerous reports of odour were reported.

For more information, visit epa.vic. gov.au/for-community/incidents/sbiinert-landfill

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN

LENSCAPE

OPINION SOCIALLY SPEAKING

A one goal game requires a double check of the score after the final siren that Beacy won over Olinda

SOCIALLY SPEAKING

Berwick College’s technology students have received a boost to their work, in the form of a donation of brand-new work boots.

Peter McKill Mongrel boots are the best available. Made

in Australia as well.

Peppercorn Deli at Fountain Gate is closing its doors later this month.

Helena Kingston

Ferny Creek. 358142

Thumbs down

To people who don’t grasp the concept of keep left unless overtaking.

Thumbs up

To those who continue to support local small businesses over the large multi-million-dollar chains. Thank you.

Thumbs down

To over development in the older areas of Pakenham.

Thumbs up

To Nar Nar Goon Football Club , Nar Nar Goon Netball Club and Nar Nar Goon Junior Football Club who hosted West Gippsland Football Netball Competition semi final andWest Gippsland Junior Football Competition Grand final! Both days were a huge success, credit to all the volunteers who pulled together to show what an amazing club we have! GO GOON!

Roxanne

Rundell Oh

Thumbs up

To the Casey Cardinia Biggest Ever Blokes Lunch raising funds and awareness of Prostrate Cancergreat effort by all of those involved.

NEWS

By Matthew Sims

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

The Environment Protection Authority Victoria has fined SBI Landfill Pty Ltd $9246 after the company failed to immediately notify EPA Victoria of equipment failure at its Cranbourne site in July which caused an odour incident.

Artists impression. Future Hilltop Park.

Upfront on project impact

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

The proposed Victorian Renewable Energy Terminal at Hastings has recently gone out for environmental impact assessment, a proponent told a ‘Towards 2050’ South East Business Conference on 30 August.

Port of Hastings stakeholder and community relations manager Todd Trimble said it was being “upfront” about environmental impacts of the project in world-signficant RAMSARlisted wetlands.

Given the “sensitive” habitat, the project would have to meet “higher environmental standards”.

And the community was “active and engaged” on protecting those values, he said - noting the scuttling of a recently proposed AGL gas pipeline due to fierce community uproar.

Hastings was named the State Government’s preferred site for the project - effectively a staging port for giant wind turbine towers offshore in Bass Strait.

The offshore wind farms in Portland and Gippsland would help deliver a target of 2 Gigawatts of offshore power by 2032 and 9GW by 2040.

About 15 hectares of the terminal would be built out across “really valuable” sea grasses in Western Port’s bay, Mr Trimble said.

This would minimise the dredging required, and reach no further out than existing port structures.

“We will have to manage that very closely, understanding the impact that we will be having by building across that land.

Arresting art on show

Endeavour Hills police station has been brightened with paintings from local school students.

Acting Sergeant Tyson Jones said Doveton College was the first school to participate, with 30 artworks from junior students now on display.

“I saw a chance to brighten up the bland police station walls and at the same time develop stronger links with our local schools,” he said.

“It gets the younger kids thinking about police and our role in the community.

“They gain an understanding that we are there to help them if needed.”

Acting Sergeant Jones said they have received a number of positive comments on the art from visitors.

“We want to rotate the art works every month, so we seeking other schools in our area to contact me on 9709 7666 if they want to take part,” he said.

“However it is in an existing heavy industrial area so we think that it can be managed.”

Bed-levelling dredging would also be required to build the new “berth pocket”, followed by the pouring of a significant amount of concrete to bear the turbines’ great weights.

The project would still require a one-off 1 million cubic metres of dredging to accommodate the large, deep freight vessels.

After that point, no annual dredging would be required. Strong tidal movements were expected to clean the channels, Mr Trimble said.

In comparison, alternative sites in Port Phillip would require annual dredging, he said.

The staging port was required due to the sheer size and weight of the wind farm components – five times bigger than on-shore turbines, Mr Trimble said.

Hastings would receive the components mainly imported in Europe, and partly preassemble the off-shore wind turbines before they’re fully assembled out at sea.

The 200-metre tall structures would have “significant visual impact”, much taller than the Mornington Peninsula’s next tallest buildings such as the 33-metre tall McCrae lighthouse, Mr Trimble said.

Several years ago, Hastings was overlooked asVictoria’s second major port in favour of Bay West.

In the meantime, its annual freight traffic had dramatically declined from about 500 vessels in the 1980s to about 150.

It meant that the port had plenty of capacity for the new terminal, MrTrimble said.Tracts of available land close to natural deep water shipping channels and the proposed offshore windfarms.

The project would create at least 1500 jobs over two years of construction, with up to 300 on-going jobs at the terminal.

If approved, the terminal’s construction was expected to begin in 2026. Building of the off-shore wind farms would start in 2029, with power generated to the grid by 2032.

With the port’s under-utilised LPG and petrol fuel tanks, there was also an opportunity to be part of a Japanese consortium’s liquidhydrogen supply chain from Gippsland, Mr Trimble said.

The South East Business Conference on 30 August launched the Victoria South East Chamber Council (VSECC), a collective representative body to unite businesses through their local business group or chamber.

Constable Tahery with Doveton College’s works. 357270

Picture: GARY SISSONS

Todd Trimble from the Port of Hastings outlined the vision for the proposed Victorian Renewable Energy Terminal at Western Port. 356200 Picture: GARY SISSONS

Summerset Cranbourne North pre-selling now*

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

Summerset Cranbourne North# is a modern village with resort-style facilities that will redefine retirement living, with the reassurance that there will be a modern aged care home onsite.

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

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

Love the life you choose

Visit

Open seven days a week, 11am - 4pm

Cnr Mannavue Blvd and Retreat Ave, Cranbourne North 03 7068 5642 |

Tell us a fun fact about yourself!

I’ve held the world’s most deadliest snakes! What do you love the most about your job?

The ability to share my passion for animals with others and enable people in the veterinary industry to create change and make a difference in the lives of animals and those who care for them.

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

A poodle with a really good hair haircut!

What would your last meal be?

Lasagna.

What was your most memorable moment?

Cuddling a baby Tasmanian Devil in Cradle Mountain, Tasmania (or maybe should I have said my wedding - no, hubby knows I’m animal obsessed).

What were you like as a kid?

Happy and cheeky.

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

What Earth looked like in the time of dinosaurs. Which six dinner guests, dead or alive, would you invite to dinner?

David Attenborough, Steve Irwin, Kevin Hart, Steve Harvey, Adele and Michael Buble. Could you imagine! Animal conversations turned comedy, with great accents and some of my favourite music! Sounds like a great night to me!

What are you currently listening to/watching or reading?

The Flash on Stan.

What three words would your friends use to describe you?

Caring, talkative and supportive.

What would you do on your perfect day off’?

Anything that involves animals from visiting Gumbuya Park to taking the dogs for a walk around the botanical gardens then coming home and snuggling on the couch with the

with

THREE … ways to participate in R U OK? Day

R U OK? Day 2023 is on Thursday 14 September and is the national day of action to remind Australians that every day is the day to ask ‘Are you OK?’ and start a meaningful conversation whenever they spot the signs that someone they care about might be struggling with life. Here are three ways to support the event.

1 Start a conversation

You don’t need to be an expert to reach out - just be a good friend and a great listener. Use these four steps and have a conversation that could change a life: ask ‘Are you OK?’, listen, encourage action and check in.

2 Register an event Register at ruok.org.au to access resources including posters, the guide to supporting R U OK?, social media tiles, activity sheets, videos and more.

cats, watching Netflix.

Where is your happy place?

In a rainforest surrounded by the sound of birds and waterfalls.

If you had to compete on MasterChef, what

dish would you cook?

Some kind of pasta.

Where is your dream holiday destination?

Tuscany on a hill somewhere with cheese and wine.

3 Donate Donations help deliver new campaigns and free resources to inspire regular, meaningful conversations and expand the campaign’s reach so we are there to support more schools, workplaces and communities.

Lynbrook Vet practice manager Rebecca Nichols

Lynbrook Vet practice manager Rebecca Nichols at the Pet Expo in Berwick. 356547

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Hundreds of cruelty reports

Casey remains a hotspot for reported animal cruelty, according to RSPCA Victoria figures.

The municipality recorded 508 animal cruelty reports – the second highest in the state behind Greater Geelong.

However, against a rising statewide trend, reports were down from 531 the previous year.

On a per capita basis Casey is ranked 58thhighest. Cardinia was ranked 26th and Greater Dandenong no. 52.

RSPCA chief inspector Michael Stagg said he was concerned by the 20 per cent rise in

animals seized or surrendered to the RSPCA inspectorate across Victoria.

He said cost of living pressures may be hindering people from providing food or medical care to their pets.

“Many people also became first-time pet owners during the pandemic and may need further information or support to help them understand how to care for their animals such as providing sanitary living conditions, grooming or preventative health measures.”

The rising numbers were placing a strain on RSPCA’s “near capacity” shelters. The Inspec-

torate spent more than $9 million to care for rescue animals, legal costs and large-scale animal welfare operations in 2022-’23.

“In the last 12 months, our Inspectors have investigated more than 10,000 reports of animal cruelty and seized or took the surrender of 2,569 animals across the state,” Chief Inspector Stagg said.

“When we prosecute cases of animal cruelty, our shelter teams may need to care for the animals involved as the court cases progress, sometimes lasting months or years, adding to the pressure already faced by our near-

capacity shelters.”

RSPCA Victoria forecasts the numbers of animals going into its care to reach more than 3340 by 2027 – more than triple the number in 2017-’18.

The most common type of cruelty report included insufficient food, water and shelter, as well as unsanitary living conditions.

Greater Dandenong recorded the sixth highest animal seizures and surrenders (62), ahead of Casey (43, ranked 11th) and Cardinia (27, ranked 27th).

A poorly malnourished Rosie when discovered by inspectors.

Rosie the boxer recovered strongly after being rescued in an emaciated state by RSPCA inspectors.

Libraries welcome colour

Endeavour Hills library has received a burst of colour in the form of a yarn bombing event on Tuesday 29 August.

Casey Council Connected Communities manager Callum Pattie said more than 80 community members participated in the Ageing Positively Crochet for a Cause event, which aimed to raise awareness of elder abuse.

“Casey’s Connected Libraries are the first partners to support the cause by welcoming the yarn bombing of the trees out the front of their libraries at Cranbourne East, Hampton Park and Endeavour Hills,” he said.

“A total of 500 pieces were collected, with around six volunteers piecing together the installations.

“The installation out the front of Endeavour Hills Library was especially created for children who can sit amongst the colours while participating in Story Time.”

Participant Kay Slacik said crocheting something beautiful makes her smile.

“Crocheting makes me happy and calm,” she said.

Participant Lill Dyson said there is a good feeling about crocheting to help others.

“It is very satisfying seeing your completed pieces of art,” she said.

Star News photographer Rob Carew visited the yarn bombing to capture the colourful creations.

‘Instantly said yes’: Students walk for mental health

By Matthew Sims

A group of local Chisholm Berwick TAFE students are lacing up their shoes to raise money for suicide awareness as part of the Out of the Shadows World Suicide Prevention Day Walk event for Lifeline.

Held on 10 September, the Out of the Shadows Walk will involve people across the nation walking for nine kilometres.

Every year, more than 65,000 Australians attempt to take their own life and more than 3000 Australians die by suicide.

People can walk to remember a loved one, as a personal tribute for a friend or family member, or to show support for Australians experiencing emotional distress or mental illness.

Cranbourne West resident and Chisholm Berwick student Nicole Meunier said she and her friends are taking part in the walk as part of the Hill Crew 2023 team.

“When I heard about the Out of the Shadows World Suicide Prevention Day Walk for Lifeline, I knew immediately it was something I wanted to be a part of,” she said.

“I thought I would reach out to my Chisholm classmates to see if they would join my team.

“Many of them instantly said yes.”

With a goal of raising $250, the team total is currently at $781.

Ms Meunier said all of her teammates are passionate about suicide prevention, especially as students currently studying a Diploma of Community Services.

“Many of my classmates, including myself, have personally been impacted by pain of suicide, some have lost loved ones and others have been in crisis themselves,” she said.

“During our studies, we are learning that as future community service workers, we will have to ask an uncomfortable question to our clients: are you are at risk of suicide?

“We are learning how to deal with people

experiencing a crisis and how to ensure they get the help and support they need.”

Ms Meunier said the team wants to increase awareness of the prevalence of suicide.

“Nine Australians lose their life to suicide every day and that is just too many,” she said.

“By creating a class team, I am not only wanting to raise money for a good cause, I want to bring awareness to the uncomfortable topic of suicide.

“I want to pay our respects to those who have lost their life to suicide but also create conversations for all the people battling every day to stay alive.

“Walking nine kilometres is something we have never done before, but we are determined to walk together for a good cause.”

To contribute to the Hill Crew 2023 team, visit outoftheshadowswalk.org.au/fundraisers/hillcrew2023

Support is available. In an emergency, call 000. Call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or go to lifeline. org.au, or contact the Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467 or go to suicidecallbackservice.org.au

Chisholm Berwick students Nim, Jessie, Brodie and Nicole are taking part in the Lifeline Out of the Shadows walk.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Gillian Brown, Brooke Osborne, Lill Dyson, Kay Slacik, Jenny Out, Ria Bywater, Courtney Rushton, Georgia Hillebrand and Malcome Davies. 354864

Pictures: ROB CAREW

Jenny Out and Ria Bywater. 354864

Jenny Out. 354864

Gillian Brown and Brooke Osborne. 354864

Kay Slacik and Lill Dyson. 354864

FOCUS ON … SENIORS ENJOYING LIFE

Early Christmas present

Picture this: You find yourself stranded in a sea of wrapping paper and ribbon, keeping an ear out for the gingerbread in the oven and running through your mounting to-do list in your head.

You’ve heard each Christmas carol about a billion times each, and you still haven’t oiled the deck, fixed that hole in the wall or raked the garden.

We’re all familiar with what a whirlwind the lead-up to Christmas is, and no, you’re not dreaming, it’s nearly time to do it all again!

It isn’t just the stress of all the planning, shopping, catering and present-buying, it’s that nagging feeling that surely it’s impossible for time to pass so quickly. Well, we say no more! No more crazy Christmas chaos! No more panic at the passing of time!

When your days are spent doing things you love, you’ll never look back and wonder where the time’s gone.

And when you’re living in a sparkling, brand new home, you can wave goodbye to the stress of gardening and home maintenance and say hello to no council rates and a lower cost of living.

Now that’s a Christmas present that won’t be re-gifted!

At Lifestyle Communities, life is what we do.We’re about opening up new opportunities, experiences and connections for the people who live in our communities. Why wait when a low-maintenance home and a low-stress life could be yours today?

Give yourself an early Christmas present –a life of opportunity, of peace, and of knowing that the best things in life come to those who reach out and grab them!

Call to speak with one of our amazing team - 1300 50 55 60.

We’re all familiar with what a whirlwind the lead-up to Christmas is, and no, you’re not dreaming, it’s nearly time to do it all again!

FOCUS ON … SENIORS ENJOYING LIFE

SAI Home and Community Care stands as a reliable and consistent aged care provider, committed to providing compassion, connection, and service to our community.

Nestled within the tranquil Mornington Peninsula, with great coverage reaching Cranbourne and Berwick, our legacy of excellence spans over 45 years, during which we’ve been proud to serve our local community. Our enduring presence has earned us the trust of our neighbours, exemplified by our motto, “For Locals, By Locals.”

SAI Home and Community Care is an innovative service that ensures all of the individual needs of clients are taken care of 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

We provide carers that are fully qualified to support the elderly and people with disabilities, with customer service that will exceed your expectations. We encourage you to maintain your independence, dignity and stay in the comfort of your own home for as long as it is safe to do so.

We set ourselves apart as experienced professionals who place the well-being of you or your loved ones at the forefront.With our deep roots in the community, we possess a genuine understanding of the unique needs, values, and stories that shape our region.

Our robust support network is the cornerstone of our care, seamlessly integrated into every facet of our approach. From your very first interaction with us, you’ll sense the warmth of empathy and understanding. We value the individuality of each person’s journey, tailoring our services to cater to their specific needs.

Our caring and dedicated team is committed to providing attentive, respectful, and friendly care.

By choosing SAI Home and Community

Care, you’re not just selecting a service; you’re embracing a tradition of over 45 years of local care and a commitment to excellence that defines us. Our dedication to affordability underscores our belief that exceptional care shouldn’t

come with an overwhelming price tag. We understand the importance of a balanced life, which extends to offering reasonably priced care solutions that align with your budget.

Your well-being is our priority, and we are

devoted to ensuring their comfort within the familiarity of your home.

We understand that the journey to aged care can be challenging, and we’re here to offer our support every step of the way.

Script change welcomed

Consumer, health and doctor groups have welcomed the 1 September start of 60-day dispensing which they say will bring immediate benefits for some of Australia’s most vulnerable people.

The reform doubles the amount of medicines that pharmacists can dispense for stable conditions, on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, from 30 to 60 days - saving patients at least $180 a year and more if they’re taking multiple medicines, the groups said in a joint statement.

The reform has been welcomed by the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, Asthma Australia, Breast Cancer Network Australia, Council of the Ageing, the Lung Foundation, and the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation.

The change is rolling out in three stages, which started 1 September, when the first group of medicines became available for 60-day scripts. It includes treatment for patients living with high cholesterol, hypertension, osteoporosis, Crohn’s disease, cardiovascular disease, gout, heart failure, and ulcerative colitis. Once the rollout is complete, over 300 medicines will be available for 60-day scripts.

Royal Australian College of General Practitioners President Dr Nicole Higgins said: “This change is going to bring immediate benefits for some the most vulnerable people in our community, including people living with chronic and ongoing conditions. It will save patients money and mean fewer trips to pick up medicine and repeat scripts, as well as freeing up GP consultations. The change is happening in three stages, and I encourage people who think they may be eligible for 60-day scripts to talk to their GP.”

Asthma Australia CEO Michele Goldman said: “While asthma medications aren’t included in this first round, we welcome the start of this initiative at the beginning of Asthma Week, for all those Australians living with a chronic condition who can now

afford to buy the medicine they need.”

Breast Cancer Network Australia Director Policy, Advocacy and Support Services Vicki Durston said: “BCNA welcomes the commencement of 60-day dispensing for certain medications. This will make medicines cheaper for people living with chronic disease, including those with breast cancer. Although not released in this tranche, we look forward to the release of hormoneblocking therapies used to treat hormone receptor positive breast cancer in future rollouts of the program to reduce the cost for those diagnosed with breast cancer.”

Council of the Ageing (COTA) Australia CEO Patricia Sparrow said: “The move to 60-day prescribing will make a big difference to the lives of many older people from a health, wellbeing and financial perspective. It’s a practical, common-sense change that recognises that medicines aren’t a luxury, but a necessity.This is an acknowledgement of how crucial it is that everyone can get timely, affordable access to the medicines they need to keep them healthy.”

Lung Foundation Australia CEO Mark Brooke said: “For millions of Australians and their loved ones who live with lung disease, being able to fill two months’ worth of vital everyday medicines for the price of one prescription is a tremendous hip pocket relief amid acute cost of living pain. This change means less unnecessary trips to the GP, freeing up the incredibly overburdened system, and less time for immunosuppressed people spent in crowded waiting areas. From our community’s perspective, those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) will be immediately affected, and for patients with stable chronic conditions it also reduces their risk of missing medication dosages at the end of the month when their script runs out. The crucial job our pharmacists do as part of our health care teams will not change - they will still help people to understand their conditions, advise on monitoring symptoms and improve management of health at home.”

Experience excellence with SAI Home and Community Care.

Breakfast delight for dads

Devon Meadows Primary School students celebrated their fathers with an early breakfast and a kick of the footy, as part of their Father’s Day event on Thursday 31 August.

Star News photographer STEWART CHAMBERS captured all of the fun on the day.

Primary school students mark Father’s Day with picnic

Fathers were the focus of the day at a special Father’s Day Picnic at Quarters Primary School in Cranbourne West on Friday 1 September.

Teacher Sue Warner said the day was a “wonderful success”.

“Quarters Primary School recognised and celebrated our fathers, grandfathers and significant others who play important roles in the lives of our learners,” she said.

“We invited our QPS families to join in a variety of sporting activities together.

“The weather was superb, and everyone had a fun filled afternoon with lots of smiles.”

Student wellbeing and community liaison teacher Shilpa Sanghani said there were plenty of fun activities on offer.

“Everyone was full of energy for the competitive games, Father’s Day art/ craft stations, selfie points and fun activities that took place in the sunshine,” she said.

“Our Junior School Council leaders worked hard in planning and organising this event along with teachers.” Jai with his dad Anthony.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Aisla, Aria and Aura with their dad. Sneh with his dad Hemal.

Oscar and Sebastian with their dad.

Blayne and Cooper with their dad. Kate with her dad.

Principal Kristy Miller and Grade 5/6 teacher Marc Bressan cooking up breakfast. 357615

Staff Nicole Lockhart and Paul McCarrick cooking breakfast. 357615

Owyn and Evelyn with their dad Joshua. 357615

Teachers Narelle Sibly, Ellen Cake, Claire Anderson and Staci Malberg preparing breakfast. 357615

Paul with his kids Sam and Indi. 357615

Staff member Maddy Roberts kicking the footy with the kids. 357615

PE teacher Leigh Stewart playing footy with the kids. 357615

Braxtan having a kick of the footy with his dad Jake. 357615

Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

Sex attacker jailed

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

A man who “terrifyingly” attacked and tried to rape a stranger soon after she got off a bus in Eumemmerring has been jailed.

David Charles Andrews, 43, pleaded guilty at theVictorian County Court to sexual assault, assault with intent to commit a sexual offence, threatening to inflict serious injury and threatening to commit a sexual assault.

He was at the bus stop near Frawley and Olive roads about 3.15am on 17 December 2022 when the victim touched off to pick up a friend’s car before going to work in Dandenong.

Andrews approached her and said: “Hey, hey, what are you doing?

“Oh, I thought you were Jane.”

She walked off, avoiding eye contact.

Along a nearby and “isolated” walking track, she was speaking to her friend on her phone when Andrews tackled her down.

He pinned her to the ground, telling her: “If you yell and scream one more time, I’m going to slit your throat.”

He repeatedly told her he was going to rape her.

In fear, she stopped resisting.

As she lay pinned down in a foetal position, Andrews kissed her head, told her she was a “good girl” and then started “grinding up behind her”, Judge Michael Tinney said in sentencing on 30 August.

Her friend on the phone heard the threats and called triple-000 and then rang the victim back. Perhaps in response to the victim’s phone lighting up or a bystander approaching, a startled Andrews ran away.

Andrews was arrested the next day in Dandenong, which “took off the streets an obviously then-dangerous individual”. He was on bail and a good-behaviour bond at the time.

The victim didn’t submit an impact state-

ment to the court due to not wanting to revisit the events. At the time she stated to police: “If I have a moment to think about it, it triggers me.

“I don’t want to think about it.

“I hate the fact it happened. I hope he doesn’t harm another soul.”

Judge Tinney said he wasn’t satisfied that Andrews was under a drug-induced psychosis at the time. His loading up with ice, GHB and cannabis had been implicated with his deteriorating mental health.

During his “rational” and “targeted” offending, he intended to rape the victim and was “spelling out” to the victim the acts that he had wanted to inflict.

Riding at 232km/h

Police have charged a 26-year-old Langwarrin man with a string of offences after he was detected travelling at more than double the speed limit in Hampton Park on Saturday 2 September.

Police detected the 2015 KTM 1290 travelling at 232km/h on a 100km/h section of the South Gippsland Freeway just after midnight.

“The threat to inflict serious injury was not just a throwaway line,” Judge Tinney said.

The “terrifying”, random sexual offending against a complete stranger in a public place was a“sizeable escalation” from his lengthy list of previous crimes, the judge said.

“You should be ashamed of yourself. But for whatever reason you have virtually no remorse and very little insight here.”

Andrews was at “high” risk of future offending unless he addressed his attitude to drugs, the judge said.

He was jailed for seven years, and eligible for parole after five. His term included 255 days of pre-sentence detention.

The motorcycle exited the freeway and was seen entering a service station on Northey Road, Lynbrook.

Officers seized the opportunity to safely arrest the rider and charged him with engaging in reckless conduct endangering life, engaging in reckless conduct endangering serious injury, driving at a dangerous speed and other traffic offences.

The rider was bailed to appear at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on 7 February 2024.

Officers seized the motorcycle and will retain it until the matter is decided by the courts.

TheCountyCourtofVictoria.

Picture:AAPIMAGE/CONCHRONIS

Push for council diversity

By Matthew Sims

Cranbourne’s Kanu Aggarwal is passionate about tackling discrimination issues relating to racial profiling, unfair treatment towards minorities, hate crimes and bullying.

The 2022 Casey Citizen of the Year award recipient is among 65 women from the 32 Victorian council areas with the lowest female representation taking part in the 12-month Women Leading Locally (WLL) Fellowship program.

Now in its second year, the WLL fellowship was established in collaboration with the State Government, Women for Elections and the Institute for Community Directors (ICDA), with the aim to achieve gender parity within Victorian councils by 2025.

Participants are engaging in campaigning, leadership and governance workshops to equip them with the skills to run for local government.

On completion of the program, participants will be awarded a Women Leading Locally - Community Leader Fellowship, a new designation accredited by ICDA.

Those who complete the eight compulsory fellowship units will also receive an ICDA Certificate in Community Leadership and Governance (Local Government).

Mrs Aggarwal said the fact that Casey had no elected councillors following the sacking of the council in 2020 inspired her to step up to create an avenue for culturally diverse and female voices.

“As a migrant and culturally diverse woman, this country welcomed me and gave me so much and serving to the local community is a way to give back to the community and country,” she said.

“This program is meant to polish the skills and expertise of women leaders so that they can use their voice to represent and empower

others to take action and make a difference.

“As a woman, it involves being a strong advocate for women’s rights and interests, and actively working to create opportunities for women to participate in leadership roles and decision-making processes.”

Victoria set a national record for female representation in the 2020 local government elections, with women making up 43.8 per

cent of elected councillors, with the WLL fellowship program aiming to increase female representation.

Mrs Aggarwal said Casey needs more voices to advocate for its needs.

“A lack of representation can lead to decisions that do not accurately reflect the needs and aspirations of the entire community,” she said.

“It emphasises the necessity of creating avenues for diverse voices, including those of women and other marginalised groups, to be actively involved in shaping the policies and direction of their localities.

“At the moment, I would say that Casey council needs their representatives in the local government to establish the glory of democracy.”

As a teacher, Mrs Aggarwal meets many parents who are seeking guidance during uncertain times and noticing an issue with bullying in schools, she took a stance and helped develop a WhatsApp group for early-years’ intervention for young parents.

“As a teacher and humanitarian, I am a firm supporter of anti-discrimination policies and always vocal about issues relating to racial profiling, unfair treatment towards minorities, hate crimes and bullying,” she said.

“As a governing council member at a local school, I took bullying head-on by communicating with the school the and echoing my voice, sentiments and support against bullying.

“I demonstrated this by selflessly providing relentless hope, guidance and advice to children and their parents in a rather difficult and uncertain situation after the onset of the pandemic, when the education system failed to provide certainty.”

Mrs Aggarwal said she was yet to decide whether she would contest a seat in next year’s elections but would continue to remain active-

ly involved in the community.

“Indeed, to fortify the democracy and uphold the council’s integrity, it is imperative that Casey Council embraces equitable representation of the entire community,” she said.

“This entails a diverse and inclusive council composition that encompasses women, minorities, the culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) community, as well as LGBTQI individuals.

“Such comprehensive representation ensures a holistic and fair decision-making process that truly reflects the collective aspirations and needs of our diverse citizenry.”

Mrs Aggarwal said she is an example of how to rediscover one’s potential.

“I am Australian citizen who migrated to Australia in 2010 with my husband with two suitcases and bundle of qualifications which had zero value at that time,” she said.

“Despite these challenges, I chose to take matters into my own hands and create new opportunities for myself by exploring new avenues and networking with others in my field.

“I want to demonstrate to the community that does not matter what life serves you, you have to get up, roll up your sleeves and take action.”

Local Government Minister Melissa Horne said theWLL program has been transformative for its participants.

“It’s wonderful to see women emerging from the program ready to campaign in the local government elections next year,” she said.

“I look forward to seeing graduates seeking and winning leadership positions in their communities.”

The WLL fellowship program is slated to conclude in April 2024.

For more information on the program, visit localgovernment.vic.gov.au/our-programs/ gender-equity/womens-leadership-program

Netball club secures $20,000 grant for healthier future

By Matthew Sims

The Berwick Netball Club has received a $20,000 grant to improve facilities and promote healthy eating.

As part of the Woolworths Pick Fresh Play Fresh Netball Grants, the $20,000 grant would contribute to new bench seating, a nutritionist and more equipment.

Berwick Netball Club vice-captain Chloey Dodds said the grant would allow players to learn the best ways to stay active.

“It’s really good for our young players to learn how to be active,” she said.

“It teaches them leadership skills as well.” Healthylife chief health officer and accredited practising dietitian Simone Austin said eating healthy was the foundation of excelling in any sport.

“Healthy eating will provide energy to fuel you and help your body recover for the next session so you can perform at your best again and again,” he said.

“Having enough nutrients such as protein allows your body to repair tissues, bones and muscles, and grow muscle for those who need and want to.

“Having all the vitamins and minerals again for repair and to support your immune system that can be under stress for those exercising regularly and at high intensity.”

Ms Austin said there were a number of healthy alternatives for people of all ages to consider.

“Always look at ways to choose quality carbohydrates such as brown rice, whole grain bread, potatoes, corn, oats and other wholegrain cereals,” she said.

“Add vegies at meals and snacks, like hummus with cut up cucumber, carrots and some wholegrain crackers before training.

“Take a snack to training if it is going to be a long session or a gap between finishing training and your next meal, such as a sandwich, a tub of yoghurt, a handful of nuts and dried fruit, fresh fruit or a milk drink.”

Woolworths NetSetGO ambassador and

former Australian Diamonds player Catherine Cox said keeping a healthy balance was the key to any physical endeavour.

“You have to fuel your body the right way to get the best out of it,” she said.

“A balanced diet is always the best approach, but if you are regularly active, you

can most certainly enjoy a small treat guilt free from time to time.”

Ms Cox said there were always various options in terms of how to put together each meal of the day.

“I love making a big tub of healthy Bircher for the week as a quick go to brekky,” she said.

“Eggs are my other go-to, poached with a slice of soy and linseed toast, with spinach and roasted cherry tomatoes, often for lunch - easy, filling and delicious!”

For more information about the grants, visit pickfreshplayfresh.netball.com.au

Former Australian Diamond player Catherine Cox AM and Berwick Netball Club vice-captain Chloey Dodds joined Berwick junior players Charlotte, Mishika, Michaela and Emmy to celebrate the new grant. 356182 Pictures: ROB CAREW

Former Australian Diamond player Catherine Cox AM leads training. 356182

The Berwick juniors took part in training games and activities. 356182

Kanu Aggarwal. Picture: SUPPLIED

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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.

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WHAT’S ON

Works on Paper Works on Paper is the new exhibition at South Eastern Contemporary Art Network’s at the Gate 6 Gallery in Akoonah Park.

More than 30 works are on display, either created on or with paper.

Local artists are exhibiting in many mediums, from collage, pastel, print making to painting, charcoal and sculpture.

Visitors are invited to vote for their favourite work as there will be a People’s Choice prize announced at the end of the month.

Gate 6 Gallery is located on the beautiful parklands at the back of Akoonah Park and can be accessed either by driving in from Cardinia Street or by strolling along the creek path from the market area.

The gallery is run by volunteers and is open every weekend from 10am to 3pm.

· For more information, visit secan.com.au

Bush Diwan

In Bush Diwan, six contemporary artists respond to a pivotal moment in Sikh history in Australia by exploring the reclamation of identity, forming, gathering and laying foundations of community. Illuminating two significant, yet little known, moments in Australian history, this project centres on the story of Siva Singh, an early 20th century regional Victorian resident, Sikh community leader and civil rights campaigner.

· Bunjil Place Gallery, Saturday 16 September to Sunday 12 November from 10am to 4pm from Tuesday to Sunday.

Janmashtami Akoonah Park

The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) is hosting Janmashtami, which is a Hindu festival, at Akoonah Park from 5pm to midnight on Thursday 7 September.

The event will consist of various cultural activities, dances and music, including vibrant kirtan, abhishek, aarti, cultural performances, delicious prasadam and spiritual enlightenment.

This event is an opportunity to take in the rich traditions and customs of Hinduism, and to connect with like-minded individuals in the community.

· To register a spot, visit tinyurl.com/janm23

Seniors and Active Retirees in Casey and Cardinia

Are you newly retired,new to the area,wanting to enjoy your freedom, or expand your social life?

Casey Cardinia Life Activities Club can offer you stimulating activities such as weekly social/ chat activities with low key in line dancing if you want to tap your feet and great afternoon teas, day/short and long trips away via coach and flights, a weekly morning coffee club, monthly Saturday country pub Lunches, monthly evening dineouts, weekly table tennis club, walking groups, seasonal daytime musical theatre outings, and more!

Come along every Thursday at 2pm at Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House in Berwick or every Wednesday at 10am for a coffee at Little Sparrow Fountain Gate.

· For more information, contact enquiry officer Gloria on 0468 363 616.

Biodiversity Blitz

Help map and find the Biodiversity in Casey.

During September, Casey Council is celebrating Biodiversity Month by partnering with other South East Melbourne councils to hold the Biodiversity Blitz 2023.

People are encouraged make records of native plants and animals to allow iNaturalist better understand Casey’s biodiversity.

Endeavour Hills Judo Club 50th anniversary

The Endeavour Hills Judo Club is celebrating its 50th anniversary on Sunday 17 September.

· Present and past members are encouraged to RSVP by contacting head coach Janet Lambert on 0414 637 050.

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

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!

You’ll be contributing to community science and showing the world the amazing biodiversity Casey has to offer!

· For more information, visit inaturalist.ala.org. au/projects/biodiversity-blitz-2023-city-ofcasey

DnD at Orana

Dungeons and Dragons (DnD) is an inclusive tabletop, fantasy, role playing game.

Participants work together with other players to go on adventures in the DnD world.

You can act, explore, instigate, solve problems, and tell stories as you bring their chosen character to life within the game world.

Second Saturday of each month, 1pm to 9pm, Orana Community Place, 16/18 Playwright St, Clyde North.

· For enquiries and to book a spot at the table, reach out to Jonathan Whelan at thestoryweaver.dnd@gmail.com.

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

If you’re interested in spoken word but haven’t been to one of the events,come down and check it out. You’ll see artists, storytellers, poets, musicians, comedians and first time performers in a friendly and welcoming environment. Whether you want to take to the stage yourself or just hang out and enjoy the vibes, all are welcome.

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

· Thursday 28 September from 7.45pm, Thursday 26 October from 7.45pm and Thursday 30 November 2023 from 7.45pm. Tickets: tickets.bunjilplace.com.au/8305/8317

Weekly badminton

Badminton for ladies or retired. All welcome.

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

Berwick Activities Club

As the club heads into its 31st year it wishes to welcome new members to join in the many activities on offer such as New Vogue Dancing, which will see you moving in no time. Social Wednesdays where you can join in Carpet Bowls, cards, Scrabble and Table Tennis. Take the opportunity to make new friends and enjoy yourself.

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

· For more information phone David on 0433 566 456 or Bruce 0447 554 475.

Trades & Services General Notices Employment

DISCRIMINATION IN ADVERTISING IS UNLAWFUL

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

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Motoring

caseycc@casey.vic.gov.au • include the application number and site address • include the reasons for the objection, and

caravan brakes, reverse camera, manual and auto gear change, very clean, 1EQ 8OV. $22,000. Call 0432 777061

Skip seals it with smother

By Jonty Ralphsmith

If there was one player in the Southern Football Netball League that would appear from nowhere to produce a game saving smother, it would be Brandon Osborne.

Cranbourne’s inspirational skipper has made a career out of stopping players with his unbelievable closing speed and read of the game.

It’s he who led the team song post-game and, after a solid but unspectacular game, it was he who stood up in the dying seconds when the game was on the line.

Osborne closed quickly when it looked like Dingley’s Tom Morecroft would cap an energetic performance with a red-time goal in the square to put Dingley in front.

The siren sounded as the ball trickled through for a behind in front of the vocal Dingley supporters, giving the Eagles a two-point win.

Dingley did not lead all day but was within touching distance of, literally, stealing it at the death.

In a bruising game of footy, there were several moments in a momentum swinging seven-goal last quarter which threatened to prove decisive.

A big Anthony Fischer hit on tough reigning league-medalist Lucas Walmsley resulted in a yellow card for a player who had, to that point, been so influential.

Walmsley, who had been opened up and smashed, bravely got to his feet quickly when he saw Eagles drawn to a scuffle, kicking it to Lochie Benton in the corridor which resulted in quick metres gained and a goal.

At the last break, Dingley coach Zach Horsley demanded his team ‘take your ripple’ and own the opportunity when it arrived, putting it

on Benton, in particular, to lift.

His vision was a step ahead as he went up a notch in the last quarter, blind handballs and dash making him a potent threat on transition.

Cranbourne led by just seven points at quarter time and one point at the main break, with both teams kicking just three goals in a tough opening half.

The Eagles had the majority of the play but a combination of poor entry kicks and excel-

lent defensive performances by AlexWindhager and Kristen Feehan kept Dingley in it.

Zak Roscoe, who won the first centre clearance of the game to signify he was ready for September, got the second half started with a bang for Cranbourne.

He burst from the centre, took two bounces and, like he has made a habit of doing this season, slotted a goal from the arc.

He kicked another soon thereafter, with Ty-

son Barry also finding the big sticks, the margin at 15 points at three-quarter-time.

But while Roscoe was doing the scoreboard damage up one end, livewire Morecroft was causing headaches up the other.

The Dingoes haven’t had an A-Grade tall marking forward all season, with Morecroft using his smarts to pounce front-and-centre and smartly use the leading lanes that presented, finishing with three goals.

The game opened up in the last quarter on the big ground, with six of the 18 goals kicked after the last break as Dingley played with dare and confidence, and Cranbourne’s attack looking more ominous as Marc Holt got his hands on it a couple of times.

Lachie Lamble, out of Saturday’s game with a concussion, was a big loss given the way the last quarter was played.

For extended periods in the last quarter, the margin was around the three goal mark, including when runner Nick Darbyshire, beston-ground, slotted one from 30.

Luke Bee-Hugo and Roscoe each missed chances to absolutely slam the door shut on a comeback and a resilient Dingoes outfit kept coming.

Manny Dolan and Cam Hansen each converted tough chances early in stoppage time, with Jackson Peet going inside 50 late.

Then there was the chaos ball from stoppage that landed with Morecroft, the smother and the siren.

The Osborne smother, Roscoe goals, Darbyshire scuttle and many more chronicles may all go down as mere clauses, stories to reminisce, on the route to another premiership.

Certainly, it was another exemplar Cranbourne finals performance in an era of resilient triumph.

Long-form cricket is this summer’s hottest new ticket

By Marcus Uhe and Jonty Ralphsmith

Two-day cricket returns to the DDCA in the upcoming 2023-24 season, including for finals, for the first time since before the pandemic forced a premature end to the 2019-20 season.

Each side in Turf 1, 2, and 3 will play seven one-day and seven two-day matches across the 14-round home-and-away season, with one match against each opponent in each format, beginning on Saturday 7 October.

Two-day cricket was slated to return last season, however wet weather in the opening rounds of the season forced alterations to the remainder of the fixture.

Eight rounds will be played before a Christmas break between 17 December and 5 January, with six to be completed upon the resumption.

Two rounds (three and 13) will see two days of cricket played across both days of those weekends.

Finals will begin in March, with round 14

scheduled for the final weekend in February, however dates for finals fixtures are yet to be determined.

In Turf 1, Springvale South and Buckley Ridges will renew hostilities in a grand final rematch in round one at Alex Nelson Reserve in a tricky opening month for each of the last year’s top four, who all play one-another once in the first four rounds.

As a result, the non-finalists in last year’s competition will also play one-another in the opening month, giving the lesser-ranked sides a chance of banking early wins to start the year, and build momentum.

Newcomers to the top flight, Beaconsfield, face Berwick in the traditional ‘Battle of the Creek’ in round two, before a brutal first two-day contest in round three against Buckley Ridges.

Meanwhile, there will be excitement about Dandenong West’s first game back in Turf 2 as the Bulls will face off against Heinz Southern Districts (HSD).

HSD made the semi finals last season and will again be a threat in 2023-24, while Dandy West have strong top-end and have recruited well.

A new look Cranbourne’s first match since its grand final defeat last season will be against Lyndale, before games against Narre Warren and Parkmore.

Parkmore, relegated to Turf 2, and Doveton, down to Turf 3, will be favoured to win their first matches, against Keysborough and Silverton respectively.

One-day rounds: 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 10, 14.

Two-day rounds: 3, 4, 5, 6, 11, 12, 13.

Fired-up Cannons just one win away from grand final

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Casey has won its way through to the Vic League 1 preliminary final with a 3-1 win in an elimination final against Monash University.

The Cannons scored all three of their goals via penalty corners, with their set pieces the most potent on Sunday that they have been all season.

After struggling to find the back of the net from penalty corners all year, Casey went at a 60 per cent strike rate on Sunday, and will look to continue to nab goals in that way against Mornington Peninsula’s watertight defence this week.

Mikaela Davis got an early goal for Casey, with Michaela Bullock and Jess Rowland the other goal scorers, with the early goals allowing the Cannons to dictate the play.

Monash University came out strongly after halftime, with Sarah Sutton-McLellan making a series of saves and the defence forcing the attackers wide.

The Cannons settled midway through the third term, Monash University’s body language dropping as there seemed no way back.

It took until late in the last quarter for the visitors to hit the board, but by the stage the result was a fait accompli.

The key against Mornington Peninsula this week will be shutting down a pair of playmakers in defence, who set up their attacking chains from the back.

As well as averaging more than two goals per game in 2022, they have statistically the best defence in the league, with their structure holding up week after week.

Mornington Peninsula won the first game between the sides 3-1, but Casey was able to shut them down effectively in their most recent meeting, a 1-1 draw.

The Frankston-based club, which finished the season in first place, went down 3-1 in the qualifying final this week toYarraValley, which awaits this weekend’s winner in the grand final.

Whites are back in fashion this summer as two-day cricket returns to the DDCA. 307627

Picture: GARY SISSONS

Jarryd Barker (left) celebrates a goal with Ben Pola. 357900

Picture: ROB CAREW

Determination drives Andi

By Marcus Uhe

Andi Mole’s progression through the ranks of the junior cross country talent pool has continued, finishing second in the School Sports Australia 11-year-old girls competition at the recent Australian Cross Country Championships at Canberra’s Stromlo Forest Park.

Mole’s time of 10.34 for the three kilometre circuit was a personal best for the St Francis de Sales Primary School student, and just three seconds behind the winner, improving nine places from her 2022 result on the same stage.

In an impressive display of her stamina, Mole made a fast start to the race and held her place towards the front of the 42-competitor field for the race’s duration.

As a member of an excellent Victorian squad that dominated the age group, the talented grade five student, who plays basketball at the Frankston Blues and football for Lyndhurst, walked away from the championships with gold medals for the 11-year-old girls 5 x 1500 metre relay, and another for theVictorian team which won its age bracket.

Mole celebrated with her grandparents, father and brother, who attended the championships over 25-28 August, by ordering a meatlovers pizza at the local restaurant.

She credits her improved finish to her training program, which she completes in the morning before going to school, to fit around her other sporting commitments.

“At training I run five kilometres, so increasing the kilometres (makes) three not seem like a lot of kilometres, and I train harder,” Mole said.

“I do most of my training on my own.

“Everyone else has a coach but I don’t do Little Athletics, I just train myself.

“I’ve got footy and basketball, and that helps, and on Saturday I do a five kilometre (run),Wednesday three (kilometres) and Mon-

day three (kilometres).”

On her return to school on Wednesday 30 August, Mole was the toast of the school community, dropping into classrooms to display the new additions to her burgeoning trophy cabinet.

School sports administrator Giuliana Faiola

Demons’ title defence over

By Marcus Uhe

A 79-point elimination final loss to Footscray has pulled the pin on the Casey Demons’ VFL premiership defence in 2023. An understrength Demons side was no match for a rested Bulldogs outfit, going down 22.16 148 to 10.9 69 at Box Hill City Oval on Saturday.

With a four-day turnaround before Melbourne’s AFL qualifying final against Collingwood on Thursday night, a handful of regular contributors did not take to the field for Casey, including Josh Schache, James Jordon, Tom McDonald, Brodie Grundy and Charlie Spargo, while Luke Dunstan suffered a season-ending knee injury in last week’s wildcard clash against North Melbourne.

Youngsters Finn Emile-Brennan and Ziggy Toledo were featuring in just their second VFL contests for the season, Cora Lynn’s Heath Briggs his first, and the gap in experience quickly began to show.

Goals were traded for much of the opening quarter before three goals in a costly four minutes during time-on to the Bulldogs saw them get off the leash at the first break.

The difference in class was apparent early as the Bulldogs found moving the ball the length of the field under little pressure through run and carry, and handball receives. The Demons then allowed the first nine shots on goal in the second term, with Footscray in complete control, but could only convert on three to extend the margin to 41 points.

Ryan Valentine kicked a goal, sandwiched between a pair to Roan Steele, to wrestle back some momentum, but two Bulldogs goals late in the term ensured the ascendency was in red white and blue, to the tune of 35 points.

It was more of the same after the long break, with the Bulldogs kicking the next six as the lead blew out to 72 points.

George Grey kicked a sharp snap running deep into the pocket as one of few Demon highlights for the afternoon, but the margin grew to 91 points late in the final term as the Bulldogs ran riot.

RoanSteele’sfourthandfifthgoalsintime on during the fourth quarter saved the margin from ballooning too far, having reached a game-high of 91 points in the 28th minute.

Veteran James Munro was Casey‘s leading disposal winner with 32 touches, to go with nine tackles, six clearances and a goal, while James Harmes had 25 touches to keep himself in the frame for AFL selection.

A premiership defence flight path, that began with a smooth take off of four wins in the first four contests for Casey, hit turbulence shortly after, splitting the next eight results down the middle with four wins and four losses, unable to win consecutive matches again until a four-game run in July.

Three losses by a combined margin of 11 points to finish the year sunk any momentum heading into September, forced into a play off for seventh position in a wildcard clash against North Melbourne.

What impact the introduction of Brodie Grundy into the side would have had, as a result of Melbourne’s loss of faith in the big-name recruit late in the year, is another difficult intangible to quantify. Dunstan’s consistency at VFL saw him nominated for the league’s Team of theYear, and he should figure highly in the club’s best-and-fairest count, alongside Laurie, Jordon and Jake Melksham.

Schache and Matthew Jefferson filled the hole left by Jacob Van Rooyen’s emergence in Melbourne’s senior side, kicking 29 and 23 goals respectively.

said the school community was extremely proud of Mole’s accomplishments.

“The furthest a student (we’ve had) make it, is regional (level), whereas Andi has made it to the state and national level,” Faiola said.

“She’s very determined.

“For somebody her age, it’s amazing, the

determination and how much she’s willing to train and everything.

“You wouldn’t normally have 11-year-olds doing that.”

Having made such a leap from 2022 to 2023, Mole already has sights on next year’s event. “My goal next year is to come first.”

Double-chance required as Seagulls lose to Sea Eagles

By David Nagel

Inverloch-Kongwak has rubber-stamped its credentials as the team to beat for this year’s WGFNC A Grade netball crown after overcoming a brave effort from Tooradin-Dalmore in Saturday’s second semi-final at Nar Nar Goon.

The Sea Eagles - undefeated after 18 rounds - had one more box to tick to confirm their favouritism…that was to defeat a full-strength Seagulls side after taking advantage of two understrength outfits earlier in the year.

The Sea Eagles eventually prevailed, 53-42, advancing to grand final day where they will defend their crown.

But it came after a tense and exciting firstquarter battle.

The netball was clean and crisp from both sides in the opening stages, with goalers from the top-two teams enjoying some great looks early.

Amy Scott (GA) was the focal point of the Sea Eagles attacking moves, while Alex Maher (GS) took care of business for the Gulls…who had things squared away at 13-all at the first break.

Inverloch ramped up its intensity in the second quarter, capitalising on its gained ball to race away to a 31-23 advantage at half time.

The elite midcourt of Kelsey Buxton (C), Lanni Pryor (WA) and Millie Sadler (WD) started to dictate terms, while Scott continued her crisp shooting under the ring.

Linsey Boddy (GK) and 100-gamer Renee Pilkington (GD) were typically strong in defence, getting hands in to make life difficult for Maher and Kelly Haynes (GA).

The reigning champs extended their lead in the third, with Ella Sadler (GA) adding some razzle-dazzle to the Eagles forward moves.

Tooradin did well to win the final term, but the main damage had been done.

The Gulls looked a much-stronger outfit this time around, with Ebony Dolan (GK) adding great strength in defence, and they will go in confident against Nar Nar Goon this week.

The Goon looked hungry and intense in Sunday’s first semi-final win over Dalyston, keeping its premiership hopes alive with a 4638 triumph at Bass.

Coach Meg Evans had her team fired up for the big occasion, with the Goon girls chasing the intercept with real intent.

They led 13-10 at quarter time, but stoked things up even further with a bone-crunching second stanza.

Both teams threw themselves at the contest, with the efforts of Dalyston coach Alana McRae (C) seeing her hit the deck on more than one occasion.

It was very fair netball…but both teams could sense the moment.

Via the efforts of players like Olivia Hamilton (C), Meaghan Winter (WA) and sharpshooter Kyra Esler (GS), the Goon kicked out to an eight-goal lead at half time to establish its grip on the match.

Dalyston came hard, as expected, but the Goon defence of Zoe Parker (GK), Hannah Carney (GD) and Chantelle Dale (WD) held firm to guide their team into a preliminary final against the Gulls.

Tooradin won the only contest between the teams this year…54-41.

Kayla Bratic gets denied by a handy Inverloch defence. 357893 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

James Munro was one of Casey’s best in its loss to Footscray on Saturday. 325648

Picture: ROB CAREW

Andi Mole with her three medals she earned from the recent Australian Cross Country Championships. 357640 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

Andi sets off for a run around the school grounds. 357640

Stingrays done and dusted

By Jonty Ralphsmith

A strong game to Gippsland’s Tew Jiath has led Gippsland to an 11.14 80 to 7.14 56 win over Dandenong at La Trobe University on Sunday.

The energetic rebounder strengthened his draft case by pouncing on Dandenong’s inefficiency in the forward half, taking marks, kicking long and using his athletic traits.

He finished with 29 disposals, six tackles and 13 rebound 50s.

“Tew was enormous today,” Power coach Rhett McLennan said.

“I thought his ability to read the footy and make good decisions with ball in hand and when it was in the air was sensational.

“He keeps getting better every week.”

It was another case of what could have been for the now eliminated Stingrays.

Nick Cox’s side had the wind in the first quarter and had the better of Gippsland but, for the second consecutive week, was unable to convert the ascendancy onto the scoreboard.

Bottom-aged players Cooper Hynes and Harvey Langford had likeable moments, but the Stingrays trailed by three points at the first break, beaten in the midfield.

Zane Duursma linked up with Willem Duursma in the last play of the first quarter, getting the Stingrays on transition, which was a theme of the first quarter.

Ahead on the scoreboard and with the wind on their backs, Gippsland played with freedom in the second quarter and extended the lead to 24 points, Gippsland always front runners from there.

In the absence of Xavier Lindsay, who was missing with hip flexor tightness, Lane Ward stepped up with his gut running netting him 30 disposals, and his ball use on the run also stood out.

Lachie Smith had a big day in the ruck with

25 hitouts and 20 disposals, while bottomaged Tooradin key-position player Jehi Esler stepped up to the plate of leading the defence. Esler finished with 16 disposals and played his role well, with Wil Dawson, who has become a staple in the backline, going forward after copping a hit early and playing through pain.

Midway through the third quarter, the Rays were able to tighten the screws and lift their in-

tensity, closing to within two goals.

Berwick product Riak Andrew had an enormous 10-minute patch, taking four intercept marks and laying a big tackle in defence to allow Dandenong to continue pressing.

Talismanic skipper Cooper Simpson scored two goals at crucial junctures, including one from stoppage in the third quarter to keep the Rays within touching distance.

The Stingrays brought pressure all day, but

Stars of West Gippsland selected in squad

By David Nagel

The dominance of Inverloch-Kongwak has been recognised with the Sea Eagles leading the way with nine members of a 50-strong West Gippsland Football Netball Competition (WGFNC) 2023 Team of the Year (TOTY) squad.

The WGFNC will announce the final composition of the 2023 TOTY at the league presentation night on Monday 11 September.

All 12 senior coaches were asked to put forward nominations from their respective clubs, with 63 players being shortlisted to make this year’s team.

Players needed to play 12 home-and-away games to qualify for the squad, with highquality players such as Taylor Gibson (Kilcunda-Bass) and Toby Mahoney (InverlochKongwak) therefore deemed ineligible.

This year’s squad contains some familiar faces, with Nar Nar Goon skipper Trent Armour looking to become the first player to receive five TOTY selections, with Cora Lynn hot-shot Nathan Gardiner and Phillip Island coach Cam Pedersen seeking four-time selections.

Of the 50 players selected in the squad, only 18 have made the team before, leaving a plethora of players set to make their TOTY debuts.

Of those, seven come from the Sea Eagles with Nick Baltas, Tom Hams, Will Hams, Ethan Park, Bailey Patterson, Jarvis Pryor and star defender Tate Short all in contention for first-time selections this year.

Of the nine Sea Eagles selected, only Lewis Rankin (twice) and Oscar Toussaint (once) have earned selection in the past.

Tooradin-Dalmore and Warragul Industrials are next best with six selections in the squad, followed by Cora Lynn, Nar Nar Goon and Phillip Island with five.

At the opposite end of the scale, Bunyip has one player selected in the squad in Alex Dijkstra, while Korumburra-Bena match that total with young-gun Jay Walker being rewarded for an outstanding season through the midfield.

356287

The final TOTY will consist of 24 players, with a coach and captain to also be recognised this year.

2023 WGFNC TEAM OF THE YEAR SQUAD

BUNYIP

· Alex Dijkstra

CORA LYNN

· Nathan Gardiner

· Ryan Gillis

· Lachlyn Peluso

· Luke Ryan

· Billy Thomas

DALYSTON

· William Clarke

· Brayden Duve

· Curtis Murfett

GARFIELD

· Joel Batson

· Angus Emery

· Zac Soutar

INVERLOCH-KONGWAK

· Nicholas Baltas

· Tom Hams

· Will Hams

· Ethan Park

· Bailey Patterson

· Jarvis Pryor

· Lewis Rankin

· Tate Short

· Oscar Toussaint

KILCUNDA BASS

· Anthony Daraio

· Ben Eddy

· Nathan Foote

· Dale Gawley

KOOWEERUP

· Mitchell Cammarano

· MatthewVoss

KORUMBURRA BENA

· JayWalker

NAR NAR GOON

· Trent Armour

· Deon Boavida

· Jeconiah Peni

· Nate Pipicelli

· DermottYawney

PHILLIP ISLAND

· Hayden Bruce

· Daniel Pearce

· Cameron Pedersen

· Jack Taylor

· MaxWalton

TOORADIN-DALMORE

· Liam Adams

· Hayden Bertoli-Simmonds

· Lewis Hill

· Brent Macaffer

· Adam Oxley

· Cooper Shipp

WARRAGUL INDUSTRIALS

· Todd Beck

· Michael Debenham

· Matthew Herbert

· Mason McGarrity

· Travis Ogden

· Sam Russell

their corridor usage and chained ball movement made them much more dangerous in the third quarter.

But, trailing by 13 points and needing to kick against the wind in the final quarter, Gippsland held its nerve.

The Power kicked two goals in the first two minutes, and while Dandenong was doughty and much more opportunistic when the game was on the line, they left their run too late.

“I thought the boys really played for each other at the end,” McLennan said.

“They played to instructions quite well and tried to play field position even though Dandenong were coming on really hard and we were down a couple of rotations.

“It showed a fair bit of character to play a competitive game of footy when we were running out of petrol tickets.”

The 24-point final margin, extended by a goal due to an ill-discipline double 50 metre penalty when the Rays realised the game was over, belied how tight it felt until the final four minutes.

With quick midfielders Billy Wilson and Harry DeMattia and defender Kobe Shipp leading the go-at-all costs mantra, the Rays gave themselves every opportunity given the predicament they found themselves in.

Shipp had an enthralling duel with Zane Duursma, both players having strong games, with top-10 lock Duursma kicking three goals and Shipp collecting 25 disposals to make himself an important rebounding ingredient.

A glimpse into the future saw 2025 draft prospects Jobe Scapin and Noah Hibbins-Hargraeves line up on each other, with HibbinsHargraeves taking six marks and kicking a last quarter goal, while Scapin had some nice moments.

Lively Fountain Gate forward Coren Giliam finished the day with his arm in a sling, while speedy Drouin boy Ricky Mentha only played a minimal part due to illness.

Devon down

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Devon Meadows has been knocked out of the MPFNL finals series, going down 19.14123to12.1183toMorningtoninthe Division 2 Preliminary Final.

A seven-goal opening term from the Bulldogs put Devon Meadows on the back foot, and they were never able to sustain momentum for a long enough period.

A season-best eight-goal haul to Jackson Calder was a decisive factor, with Panthers key forward Patrick Ryder kept to just four goals.

Perry Lewis-Smith, previously listed at several VFL clubs, helped Mornington win the midfield battle, with his team leading at 52 points at the last break, before cruising home.

Youngsters Ty Kirkwood and Riley McDonald and the experienced Dean Kent and Joel Hillis were named in the best for the Panthers, while Jack Harmes played his best game of the season. Reaching preliminary final week is a big step forward for Devon Meadows, which established itself as a team to watch last year, before being knocked out in the first week of finals. A tough finals win last week against Karingal will be confidence boosting for the youngsters, whose development this season has been expedited by the well-drilled core group.

Mornington will take on Somerville in this week’s Division 2 MPFNL Grand Final.

Ty Kirkwood was gallant in a losing cause. 356296 Picture: ROB CAREW

Reigning league best and fairest winner Brent Macaffer has been selected in a 50-strong squad for the 2023 WGFNC Team of the Year.

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Dandenong’s season has come to a close. 358186

Picture: JAZZ BENNETT