News - Berwick Star News - 14th September 2023

Bushfire heroes

By Matthew Sims

The roar of the bush burning all around you and the roar of flames engulfing trees mere metres from where you are standing.

These memories are among those which have stuck in the mind of Narre Warren CFA brigade members who were among the 8200 volunteers fighting fires during the 2019 and 2020 Black Summer bushfires.

Narre Warren 4th lieutenant Anastasia Barker and father and son firefighters Peter and Grant Lynch were among a number of recipients of the National Emergency Medal presented recently as part of Australia’s Honours and Awards system, which recognises significant or sustained service to others in a nationally significant Australian emergency.

By the conclusion of the Black Summer bushfires, more than 2280 CFA volunteers and staff had been deployed interstate, while more than 8200 had contributed to the response at home in Victoria.

The impact of the bushfires covered 1.5 million hectares, tragically killing five people, destroying more than 400 homes and killing more than 6800 livestock and thousands of wild animals.

Mrs Barker said they were first called out to the Bairnsdale area in the first week of January 2020, where they lived out of tents among hundreds of other volunteers and firefighters.

“It was like a home away from home,” she said.

Each deployment lasted for about three to four days, but Peter said each deployment could be “quite strenuous”.

“You can be spent by four days,” he said.

Peter said while he and his son were working in the same area, they never worked on the same strike team, but he was never worried about his wellbeing.

“We saw each other from a 10-kilometre distance,” he said.

“There was nothing that I could do in the face of that fire.

“I’ve got confidence in our training.”

Grant said his team were involved in asset protection.

“That was the biggest campaign fire I’d been on,” he said.

“Seeing the fires, I was a little bit unsure.

“Once we were there, we knew what our role was.”

Peter said he saw several herds of cattle destroyed, leaving hundreds of pelts.

“They were just incinerated,” he said.

“It just shows the intensity of the heat and flames.”

Ms Barker said the dark red of the sky caused by heavy smoke cover was “surreal”.

“The craziest thing I remember was the colour of the sky,” she said.

“That’s just something that you don’t see.

“It’s just surreal, it doesn’t feel real.”

Peter said the sound of the blaze and the wind was something he would never forget.

“It’s like a hurricane,” he said.

“It’s just a roar of trains or trucks coming towards you.

“Then it’s the sudden silence.”

Peter said he remembered a time when they were fighting a fire in front of them but then heard calls of ‘behind’.

“We’re all primed and ready with our hoses,” he said.

“The embers are igniting where we are standing.”

Grant said he appreciated receiving the NEM.

“I think it’s great to be recognised,” he said.

“It was more about being there for the community.”

Peter said he was “humbled and honoured” to receive the medal.

“I would give it back in a heartbeat if we could save more property and the lives lost.”

“They’re the real heroes.”

Mrs Barker’s work involved battling an ongoing peat fire by spraying foam as a wetting agent.

She said she remembered former Narre Warren captain Paul Hardy telling her husband to not worry.

Continued page 14

NarreWarren4thlieutenantAnastasiaBarker. 358539

Picture:STEWARTCHAMBERS

Young trafficker cops order

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

A drug trafficker who was behind bars for more than 400 days has been released on a CCO after large amounts of cocaine and methamphetamine were seized from his bedroom in Clyde.

Nathan Morgan, 22, pleaded guilty at the Victorian County Court to trafficking cocaine and meth as well as possessing phencyclidine (PCP) and MDMA found during the police dawn raid in April 2022. Police also seized $4250 cash believed to be the proceeds of crime.

In sentencing on 11 September, Judge Simon Moglia noted that the “very significant” 491.6 grams of cocaine was just short of the 500-gram threshold for commercial trafficking. The 172.3 grams of meth was about twothirds the commercial traffickable quantity.

At the time, Morgan was on a community

corrections order. He was remanded after his arrest. Morgan also pleaded guilty to handling stolen goods – a police lanyard, Hermes handbag and bank cards - found in his bedroom in Pakenham in February 2021.

He also pleaded guilty to driving a stolen car on Eastlink during the same month.

Judge Moglia noted the harm that selling illicit drugs caused to young people, who like Morgan were “ill equipped to make properly informed choices about using them”.

“People trafficking at this level must be deterred by stern sentences on those that are caught.” Morgan’s lengthy criminal history including mainly drug and extensive thefts was “entirely consistent” with supporting his addiction, Judge Moglia noted. He had “entrenched” multi-drug abuse including a daily cocaine habit.

However, two years ago, Morgan didn’t

accept the need for mental health and drug treatment. A recent 16-week residential rehab program had reportedly led him to a “different point of view”. He wrote a letter to the court that this was his longest period while “clean” and had “no desire to have anything to do with drugs”.

“I congratulate you for those changes,” the judge stated – but noted the first few months of Morgan’s release into society would be a “testing time”. With the right support and effort, his risk of reoffending was still assessed as moderate to high and his rehabilitation prospects as “guarded”.

Morgan’s childhood was marred by a violent stepfather, disadvantage and substance abuse, with a recent diagnosis of PTSD, the court heard. This somewhat reduced his blameworthiness, the judge noted.

He accepted that regular stints in jail and

Customers heart broken following thefts

By Sahar Foladi

Customers are calling for compensation after a series of break-ins at a Hallam self-storage facility.

Tens of thousands of dollars worth of superhero collectibles and musical instruments are believed to be among the loot stolen from storage lockers at the StoreLocal business on Monday afternoon, 4 September.

A devastated Endeavour Hills couple are bearing the loss of what was more than 10 years of collection.

Kelly Davis shared the news on Facebook, asking the community to watch out online for their collectibles which included superheroes, figurines and comic cards.

“We went down there, the lock was cut off, everything was trashed and they smashed some statues.

“Some of them you can pay $1000 to $3000. The value of our statues is phenomenal.

“One was smashed to pieces - we’d paid $1500 for that alone,” she said.

“Since the post I’ve had five different people say they were there and had their storage broke in.”

Twenty units at StoreLocal were broken into, according to Ms Davis, with some items chucked out in various other units.

“Ninety per cent is gone, there’s hardly anything there except for boxes.”

At the inspection of the break-in, Ms Davis received another call letting her know another one of her lockers was broken into, located right next to the other.

“Some of the collectibles were from my husband’s personal collection. He’s devastated.

“It’s devastating that we must start from scratch again.

“My husband has comic collectible cards and figurines worth thousands of dollars for a small one.”

ered in superhero tattoos, spent thousands on

some of the imported collectibles not found in Australia, which adds an additional “fortune” on freight costs.

Hulk, Deadpool, Batman, Spiderman and other hero statues have been taken or damaged. Ms Davis said they’re yet to find out the true extent of their loss, however it seems they’ve taken everything.

The couple own a fish and chip shop in Doveton, a gym in Cranbourne and a vibrant superhero themed coffee shop in Hallam, not far from the storage unit so to help them swap out collectibles easily.

“When we opened our coffee shop we did it as a superhero theme to get some of the collectibles out of the house for people to see.

“That’s why our collection is bigger than what it normally would’ve been.”

The Davis’ had recently downsized to a house in Endeavour Hills and thought to store

their collectibles at a storage unit.

Many people affected have been “put out” as there’s no insurance coverage as well, Ms Davis said.

The group of people affected by the breakins are working together to seek compensation from the company.

After requesting footage, Ms Davis said she found out the unit had been broken into again.

“And the camera footage doesn’t pick up the faces or number plates.”

Some customers including Ms Davis think the robbers specifically targeted them, backed by great planning.

The company has since asked customers if they’d like to relocate storage units but several aren’t keen, she said.

Police were called to the store where fingerprints were taken for tests, she said.

StoreLocal was contacted for comment.

Jewellery crafted with care

detention put Morgan at risk of being institutionalised. Morgan was jailed for 406 days – which had already been served in pre-sentence custody. He will now serve a 12-month community corrections order including supervision and drug and mental health treatment. This was counter to a CorrectionsVictoria assessment that Morgan was “unsuitable” for a CCO, given his history of breaching several previous orders.

Corrections reported “concerns” about Morgan’s comments during an interview. Judge Moglia said Morgan’s letter to the court put the comments in context.

“I’m prepared to accept there may have been a misunderstanding but time will tell.”

Morgan was warned he was at risk of going back to prison if he breached the CCO.

“Demonstrate that you’re in control of a better life,” the judge urged him.

Citizens take on robbers

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Residents performed a dramatic “citizens arrest” after four masked robbers ambushed two boys walking in Narre Warren North. Police say the four males approached in a car, got out and demanded the pair’s phones on Crawley Road about 3.30pm on Sunday 3 September.

The robbers then fled in different directions, police say.

One of the victims, aged 15, was treated at the scene for minor injuries.

He had been allegedly knocked out with a coward punch to the back of his head by one of the “thugs”, according to a neighbour.

The other victim, 17, was uninjured.

Up to 60 residents joined an immediate search for the alleged offenders who had jumped over fences in their attempted escape. Various police units, including the Dog Squad, were also reportedly at the scene.

Two 15-year-olds were eventually arrested nearby in what the neighbour said was a “citizens arrest”.

“The message was that we aren’t going to take it anymore,” he said.

“The street was abuzz with people and cars trying to find these kids.”

The arrested teens were later released pending further enquiries, police say.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Any information to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au

A $1200 imported Hulk bust was among the stolen goods.

‘Unintended’ target

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

A sleeping teenage boy is believed to be the unintended victim of a targeted shooting into a home in Endeavour Hills, according to police.

The 17-year-old was sleeping when he was shot in the Janmara Court house about 1.20am on Wednesday 13 September.

Several shots were fired from either the road or the street, with two puncturing the secondstorey bedroom’s window.

He was taken to The Alfred hospital in a stable condition with suspected non-life-threatening injuries.

Other family members in the home were not injured. No other homes or cars were struck.

A Mitsubishi Eclipse SUV that was found burnt out at Sweeney Reserve Narre Warren has been linked to the attack.

It was observed doing a “couple of laps” of the court immediately before the shooting.

One of the alleged offenders may have been later burnt, police believe.

“We are in the early stages of the investiga-

tion but we are operating in the belief that it was a targeted shooting,” Detective Acting Inspector Al Hanson, of the Armed Crime Squad, said.

The boy was “extremely lucky” not to have been killed. He was “not known to police”.

“We don’t think he’s the intended target,” Det Act Insp Hanson said.

“We don’t believe anyone in the address (at the time) was the intended target.

“It’s possible it was a mistaken address but we don’t have information to confirm or otherwise.”

He said the shooting was not linked to any others, including multiple shots fired into a family home in Burrows Avenue in Dandenong on Sunday 10 September.

“We do believe both shootings are targeted shootings.

“We don’t have a random gunman driving around firing indiscriminately in Dandenong or Endeavour Hills or surrounding area houses.”

Any information, CCTV or dashcam footage to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au

$30k bonsai theft

Police are investigating after a large number of bonsai trees were stolen from a Narre Warren nursery last week.

Officers were initially called to the Heatherton Road nursery, following reports of theft, in the early hours of Tuesday 5 September.

As part of the investigation, police executed a search warrant at a property in Clairmont Avenue in Cranbourne later the same day, where more than 30 plants were recovered.

The recovered miniature trees were estimated to be worth more than $30,000, with one tree valued at almost $10,000 alone.

Police returned the trees to the nursery and the investigation remains ongoing to locate the offenders.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a report online at crimestoppersvic.com.au

Waste burn leads to fine Environment Protection Authority (EPA) Victoria has fined a man $1923 after finding evidence of burnt industrial waste in Narre Warren East.

EPA Victoria officers visited a work site at Kerrs Lane in Narre Warren East on Wednesday 9 August following reports of noxious smoke coming from the premises.

They found evidence of burnt industrial waste which should have been taken for disposal at an appropriately licensed facility.

EPA North Metropolitan Melbourne regional manager Jeremy Settle said industrial waste could not be burnt in backyard bonefires.

“Everyone has a legal duty to act to protect the environment,” he said.

“The resulting smoke is potentially harmful and for that reason, a fine is appropriate.”

To report any pollution, contact EPA at 1300 372 842 or online at epa.vic.gov.au/report-pollution

Detective Acting Inspector Al Hanson says the boy is believed to be not the intended target.

Police investigate the scene at Janmara Court, Endeavour Hills. 360663 Pictures: GARY SISSONSTwo bulletholes are visible in the home’s topstorey window. 360663

Tell us a fun fact about yourself!

I have the ability to name a song from the drum beat in the first couple of seconds.

What do you love the most about your job?

Being the boss, being able to get more time with my family than I ever thought was possible, and operating my excavator and driving my truck at Parkex Excavation and Concreting.

You recently took part in the Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb; tell us a bit about how you went!

The most physical stress I have put my body through in well over a decade. I can’t say I look after myself, as a concreter and excavator operator my body doesn’t like me that much, so to have completed the climb in seven minutes I was blown away. If I train for it next time maybe I can break five minutes!

What would your last meal be?

My wife’s lasagne, any day of the week.

What was your most memorable moment?

Watching the first breath of my children.

What were you like as a kid?

Ask my mum. No, don’t, I don’t wanna get kicked out of the brigade.

What matters the most to you and why?

Comfort, safety, and happiness for my wife, daughter and son.

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

Live Aid at Wembley.

What would you do on your perfect ‘day off’?

Coffee from a shop, Bunnings, a little bit of work done at home (lawns, backyard etc.), pub with a playground for lunch, ice-cream, barbecue and a couple of beers with my one and only to finish.

Where is your happy place?

Anywhere that work is off my mind, as well as in a fire truck.

with Narre Warren CFA firefighter Jason Parkinson

THREE … ways to support the National Week of Deaf People

Running from Monday 18 September to Sunday 24 September, the National Week of Deaf People (NWDP) is a weeklong national celebration of Deaf individuals and the Australian Deaf community, coinciding with the International Day of Sign Languages on Saturday 23 September. The theme for this year is ‘A World Where Deaf People Can Sign Anywhere’. Here’s three ways to support the local and broader Deaf community.

1 Learn Auslan

What better way to connect with the local Deaf community than learn how to communicate with them. There are a number of courses or apps available to learn how to sign, even if it is just a few simple signs.

2 Find an event

There are plenty of events catering to the Deaf community and welcome for all attendees, such as silent dinners.

3 Donate

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

Chilli caramel crispy pork belly with Viet slaw

and Nam Jim dressing. Where is your dream holiday destination? Seeing gorillas in their natural habitat.

Donate directly to Deaf Australia or Deaf Victoria to directly support their advocacy and campaign work.

Narre Warren CFA firefighter Jason Parkinson. 358958

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

You don’t need all the safety gear, until you do.

You might think putting on the safety gear will take longer than doing the job.

It could be that you’ve done it a thousand times before. But that doesn’t reduce the risk. You may not come back in one piece.

Check you’ve got the right safety gear for the job, visit worksafe.vic.gov.au/safety-gear-farm

It’s never you, until it is.

THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN

Thumbs up

To the lovely people that helped my lovely Mum last Wednesday in Pakenham when she fell over in the car park. To the gentleman that came to Mum’s aid providing the towel and the lady with the tissues and calling the ambulance. My whole family are very grateful to you all for looking after our dear Mum, wife and grandmother. So thank you, you beautiful people.

Thumbs down

To the way some people treat the kids working in fast food.

Thumbs down

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

Thumbs up

To ROC - Officer Football Club for their Reserves team making the grand final, first time in almost 20 years a senior side’s made the granny.

$10m in mistaken riches

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

After a mistaken $10 million windfall, a disability support worker has been sentenced upon trying to flee the country with some of the proceeds.

Thevamanogari Manivel, 41, formerly of Dandenong North, pleaded guilty at the Victorian County Court to recklessly dealing with $4 million of proceeds of crime.

It all started with a “significant” accounting error by cypto-currency business Crypto.com on 13 May 2021.

Instead of refunding Manivel’s partner $100, a staff member typed in an account number 10474143. It resulted in $10,474,143 being transferred into Manivel’s bank account. Discovering the overpayment, her partner told her to immediately transfer it to a joint account at a different bank.

That day, she went to a bank at Casey Central shopping centre and withdrew $10 million by bank cheque and $5000 in cash.

The bank cheque - along with $80,000 electronically - was deposited in the joint account that day.

Crypto.com didn’t realise the overpayment until an audit seven months later. By that point, the joint account was down to just over $8 million.

Manivel’s bank contacted her saying the deposit was a mistake, requesting that she return the $10 million.

Claiming she thought the message was a ‘scam’, she transferred $4 million to a Malaysian-based bank account.

In March 2022, Manivel was arrested with a one-way ticket to Malaysia and $11,750 cash attempting to board a flight at Tullamarine international airport.

Born in Malaysia, she had migrated to Australia in 2015 with a plan to save up money to sponsor her three children to join her.

To that end, she’d toiled in hard physical labour, including as a farmhand, hotel cleaner and a disability support worker. She also studied in aged care, pathology collection and community services.

In a police interview, Manivel had claimed her partner had told her he’d won the money.

In sentencing on 8 September, Judge Martine Marich said the partner’s explanation for the millions was “too good to be true – and it was not true”.

Prosecutors couldn’t prove Manivel had a “sinister intent” until she was notified by her bank of the mistake. At that point, she “yielded” into cynical self-interest to “short cut” her way to her financial goal, Judge Marich said.

The judge noted Manivel’s previously “ex-

emplary” character with no prior criminal history and a diligent work ethic.

Most of the $4 million had since been recovered, which was “unusual” in such a case, the judge noted.

Judge Marich noted that Manivel was assessed with trauma and on anti-depressants during an “extraordinarily difficult” seven months’ stint in remand.

She also faced the possibility of deportation – though she was able to apply for a permanent visa to address Australia’s shortage of aged care workers.

Manivel was jailed for 209 days – which was already served in pre-sentence detention.

She will serve an 18-month community corrections order with “intensive compliance”. It included 200 hours of unpaid work and mental health treatment and a night curfew all during the first six months.

It was an early morning departure for the students.

VCAL students walk 42 kilometres to raise vital funds

By Matthew Sims

A group of VCAL students and teachers from Narre Warren South P-12 College completed a walking marathon on Monday 4 September, trekking from their Amberley Park Drive campus all the way into Flinders Street Station.

The group of 14 Year 11 and 12 students raised $100 towards FoodBank, State Schools’ Relief and to the ACE Foundation ahead of the 42-kilometre journey.

The walk was a way for the school to give

back to organisations which had provided their support to the school for a number of years, according toVCAL teacher and participant Flynn Wilkinson.

“FoodBank have been donating food to our school for years now,” he said.

“State Schools’ Relief have been helping families access uniform and booklist items for years and earlier this year saw the ACE Foundation provide eye testing and free prescription eye glasses for dozens of students in our primary school.”

MrWilkinson said the students completed

the journey after about 55,000 steps.

“The weather was kind with an eventual top of 22 degrees proving a bit warm before the light to medium rain from Caulfield and the eventual torrential downpour we all had to deal with down the bottom of Williams Road at Como Park,” he said.

“Students and staff didn’t bat an eyelid.

“We were on the move for almost 10 and a half hours, seeing us reach Flinders Street station at 7.15pm.”

Mr Wilkinson said a highlight of the students’ contributions was a selfless act

from Toby Ihle.

“A particular shout-out to Toby Ihle who fell ill over the lead-in weekend and couldn’t participate, but insisted that the money he’d donated remain part of the total donation of the group,” he said.

“Solidarity amongst the group is certainly a feature of events such as this.

“Thanks to Trudi Godkin and Kirsten Roe for meeting us at the Dandenong Skate Park with water bottles and energising lollies to keep us going.”

Pictures: SUPPLIEDThe students arrived at Flinders Street Station at about 7.15pm.

A Berwick Springs Titans Junior Football Club Titans fan shared her love for the team on Elephant Rock in Upper Beaconsfield. 359886

Picture: GARY SISSONS

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Teachers in short supply

By Matthew Sims

The Australian Education Union (AEU) Victorian branch has welcomed the announcement made by the State Government to introduce scholarships for secondary teaching students, but has said more needs to be done to secure a consistent supply of teachers as schools continue to operate with limited numbers.

An investment of up to $93.2 million would provide new scholarships to support teaching degree students, with the scholarships set to be available to all students who enrol in secondary school teaching degrees in 2024 and 2025, with final payments if they then work in Victorian government schools for two years after they graduate.

Estimated to support about 4000 future teachers each year, the total scholarship for students who complete their studies and then choose to work in government secondary schools would match the HELP fees charged by the Commonwealth Government for Commonwealth Supported Places – $18,000 for a four-year undergraduate program or $9000 for two years of postgraduate study.

Berwick Lodge Primary School principal Henry Grossek said it was a “good win” but fell short of supporting students wishing to become primary teachers.

“I would argue for the last 10 to 15 years governments of all persuasions have not supported the needs of the teaching profession well enough,” he said.

“The children of today deserve the best that we can give them.”

Mr Grossek said Covid had brought a lot of issues to the fore, spurring a number of teachers to take family leave, moving to part-time work or wanting to work as casual relief teachers.

“It is extremely difficult,” he said.

“Term 2 was really quite dreadful, Term 3 has been marginally better.

“We are still plugging holes every week.”

Mr Grossek said their school was currently trying to fill seven vacant positions.

“There’s not that many people applying,” he said.

“The quality is not as strong.”

Mr Grossek said he was optimistic about the future and said he was indebted to the entire school community.

“It’s a team effort,” he said.

“They support me just as much as I support them.”

Casey Fields Primary School was among the local schools searching for new teachers, with at least nine vacancies for teachers over the past two months.

The announcement arrived shortly after the AEU held a protest on the stairs of State Parliament on Friday 8 September demanding immediate action from Premier Daniel Andrews.

AEU Victorian branch deputy president

Justin Mullally said the announcement was a positive step forward.

“Teachers, education support staff, and principals have been calling for clear action to address the workforce shortage, and today the government have responded,” he said.

Mr Mullally said more still needed to be done to retain existing school staff members.

“Right now school staff are stretched covering gaps because of teacher shortages – they are going above and beyond to ensure students have access to the learning programs they need,” he said.

“This effort is taking a toll causing too many to become burnt out, take extended leave, or leave the profession altogether.

“Retention payments are one of the many solutions the government can implement now to acknowledge the key role of teachers, education support staff, and principals, their valuable work, and encourage them to stay in the

Gwen’s 84 reasons to keep volunteering

By Matthew Sims

At 84, Palliative Care South East (PCSE) volunteer Gwen Clough said she has no plans of stopping.

The Hampton Park local has been volunteering providing palliative care and other end-of-life support since 2003.

“To me, it is an honour and a privilege to be a PCSE volunteer,” she said.

“The way I see it, I’m giving a little bit of my time to someone who is running out of time and improving their quality of life.

“Who wouldn’t want to do that?”

Mrs Clough said she helped people with a life-limiting illness make the most of their remaining time.

“I remind them they are still living and help them continue to do things they enjoy like shopping or going out for lunch, engag-

ing in conversation about life, love and the world,” she said.

“There have been times when I have cried with them, even laughed with them.

“I think the most important thing to remember is not to treat them differently because they are dying.

“They are still alive and they need to be respected.”

Mrs Clough said she though palliative care would have been helpful following the loss of her two husbands 36 years ago and 28 years ago respectively.

“I’m not afraid of death as I’ve travelled this road before,” she said.

“The first time was the fear of the unknown, the second time was the fear of the known.

“I was very lucky to have had the support of a loving family and some very good friends.

“I doubt that I would’ve got through it without them.”

Mrs Clough said it was never too late to start volunteering.

“Give it a go,” she said.

“It is amazing how many people appreciated the support of palliative care.

“Being a palliative care volunteer has been the most rewarding volunteering I have done in my almost 60 years of volunteering.”

For more information about how to volunteer at PCSE, visit palliativecaresoutheast. org.au

Mrs Clough is also in the running for the Westfield Local Heroes competition, with the finalist with the most community votes set to receive a $20,000 grant for the organisation they represent.

profession.”

AEU South East secondary school member Simon Cole said the students deserved better treatment.

“As teachers, we are dedicated to educating our students and supporting them in their learning,” he said.

“However, these shortages are stretching staff beyond their capacity and it’s students’ learning that suffers.”

Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas said National Teacher Workforce Action Plan was investing $1.4 billion in school workforce initiatives, including $204.8 million through the 2023–24 state budget

“The number of teachers in Victoria has grown at twice the national average and that’s no accident,” he said.

“We’re delivering a range of initiatives that have seen more than 5000 additional teachers registered by the end of 2022, compared to 2020.

“State Government investments have been focused on giving all students an equal opportunity to make the most of a first-class education system delivered by great teachers in excellent classrooms and schools.”

Berwick MP Brad Battin there was a greater impact felt in the growth corridors as new schools and established schools are competing for staff members from the same pool of candidates.

“InVictoria, the teacher shortage is impacting at all age levels and year levels,” he said.

“The more difficult solution is to review how we educate children, what is in the curriculum and are we overloading staff with unnecessary areas in day to day learning that should be part of home learning and values.

“Until we are serious in making change in education, there will be unwarranted pressure on teachers, and a reluctance for people to enter teaching in the future.”

Teachers, principals, and education support staff protested on the steps of Parliament on Friday 8 September calling for the State Government to tackle the teacher shortage crisis. Picture: SUPPLIED

Palliative Care South East chief executive Kelly Rogerson and volunteer Gwen Clough.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Casey Council falls below the mark

By Matthew Sims

All of Casey Council’s key service areas, as well as overall performance, showed a decrease in the latest Local Government Community Satisfaction Survey results.

The council achieved an index score of 50 in overall performance, six index points below last year and one point below the interface council average.

The most significant decreases occurred with the appearance of public areas and sealed local roads key service areas, each dropping by nine index points to 50 and 44 index points respectively.

Casey Council administrators chair Noelene Duff PSM said the council acknowledged that the scores indicated a decline in satisfaction.

“We’re already implementing measures designed to drive improvements and ensure we’re delivering services to the standards expected by council and the community,” she said.

“The decline in scores was a trend seen across both the state-wide and Interface averages for all measures.

“This was particularly evident in relation to sealed local roads, which can largely be attributed to three consecutive years of La Nina weather patterns and the unprecedented soaking rains that contribute to accelerated road pavement deterioration.”

Co-ordinated by the Department of Government Services on behalf of Victorian coun-

BUSINESS IN FOCUS

cils to gain insights into the community’s views across a range of services and performance measures, independent market research agency JWS Research conducted 800 phone interviews with a representative sample of the Casey community to compile the results.

Ms Duff said the council would continue to focus on improving the local road network and maintaining its public spaces.

“We’ll continue to invest in renewing and resealing our local road network and meet the standards set out in our Road Management Plan,” she said.

“We recently awarded four new contracts to deliver mowing services for our open spaces under a new arrangement designed to achieve better maintenance standards.

“We’re confident this will improve performance in maintaining our public areas and in turn, enhance community satisfaction.”

Other decreases included value for money falling from 52 to 49 index points, overall council direction decreasing from 50 to 43 index points, customer service dropping from 71 to 67 points, waste management falling from 69 to 67 index points, community decisions decreasing from 52 to 48 index points, consultation and engagement dropping from 50 to 47 index points and lobbying falling from 50 to 47 index points.

Ms Duff said while council’s Connecting Casey advocacy campaign undertaken in 2022 was “more subtle and nuanced than previous election approaches”, “it used evidence-based content designed to engage audiences and in-

fluence stakeholders, focusing less on public and political agitation and more on building strong, lasting relationships and representing the community”.

“In the lead up to the State Election, more than $1.3 billion in local election commitments were made by both parties, a reflection of our successful advocacy efforts.

“While our score relating to lobbying has declined, we want to assure residents we remain committed to advocating to other levels of government to invest in Casey to help us keep up with growing demands for infrastructure, particularly in roads and transport.”

In 2023, almost all councils which participated in the survey received lower overall performance index scores than in 2022, with the overall performance index score for allVictorian councils falling by a statistically significant three points, from an index score of 59 in 2022 to 56 in 2023.

Ms Duff said the council would look at the community’s feedback to refine its service provision moving forward.

“We are committed to building and improving all areas of council’s services and we will use the community feedback provided in this survey to review our services and consider where improvements can be made,” she said.

On Facebook, Casey resident Dorian Day said Casey Council should look at lowering land rates.

“That would be a good start I’m sure everyone would agree on,” he said.

Kip’s a star

Kip Homewood has taken out Berwick News’ Tip-Stars competition this year. Kip, from South East Orthodontics, has won an overnight stay for two at Hyatt Place Hotel in Scoresby.

Runner-up Matt Ketteringham from Barry Plant received a $250 gift voucher for Berwick Village Jewellers.

A big congratulations to both Kip and Matt, and thank you to everyone who participated in Tip-Stars this year.

New community will keep buyers young at heart

Halcyon Evergreen’s first home buyers, Paul and Diana Abel, are excited to immerse themselves in community living when they move into their new home next year.

Originally hailing from the United Kingdom, Paul and Diana have lived in Australia for more than 36 years and are currently residing in Frankston, Victoria.

Paul runs his own carpentry business and Diana is working from home, assisting with the business’ administration.

“I’m semi-retired and Paul is aiming to retire next year,” Diana said.

“Being in our mid-60s, we’re looking forward to making the most of our move to Halcyon Evergreen.”

The couple had been considering a move to a lifestyle community for some time, but still did a lot of research before purchasing at Halcyon Evergreen.

“We’d looked around at all the options and weren’t interested in retirement villages,” Diana said.

“But then we came across Halcyon Communities on Facebook and signed up for a tour of Halcyon Berwick. We were very impressed by the quality of the homes, which is a huge compliment given Paul’s background in carpentry!”

“The decision was made for us, but we still consulted our children, who were very excited. They said we’ve worked hard all our lives and now it was time to enjoy it.”

The couple were also very impressed with the expansive facilities that Halcyon Evergreen will offer.

“We’re both quite social, so we’re really looking forward to meeting lots of people and trying new things,” Paul said.

“At our age, you need to respect where you’re at physically, so the health and wellness facilities will be important for us as we get older.”

“We want to make the most of everything on offer to keep us young at heart.”

Diana agreed and said they are excited to

try something new.

“We’ve never played pickleball, but we’ve been watching videos and it looks so fun,” she said.

“There’s so much on offer, right on our doorstep.”

Halcyon Evergreen will feature 295 homes and state-of-the-art leisure and lifestyle fa-

cilities including a gold-class style cinema, games room, social kitchen/dining/bar, enclosed pool, spa and health and wellness precinct.

Halcyon Evergreen’s first home buyers, Paul and Diana Abel.

Kip Homewood has won an overnight stay for two at Hyatt Place Hotel in Scoresby.

Matt Ketteringham received a $250 gift voucher for Berwick Village Jewellers.

Halcyon Berwick Open Day

Open Day 7th October 11am–2pm

A community designed for over 50s living

Halcyon Berwick will be celebrating the one year anniversary of its clubhouse opening by holding an Open Day on the 7th of October. This will be a chance for you to come by and explore how much our community has grown over the past year. Plus, enjoy a free sausage sizzle with drinks and treats available.

Some of the things that you’ll be able to do on the day include:

• Explore our resort-quality clubhouse facilities

• Learn how to play pickleball or lawn bowls on our sporting grounds

• Grab a free bite to eat from the sausage sizzle with drinks and sweets as well

• Explore our display homes and our community

• Get to know some of our friendly homeowners

Scan the QR code to find out more or call 1800 050 050

You can do as little or as much as you’d like, whether you’d like to swing by for a quick tour or stay the entire day, the choice is yours.

Attendance is free and you’re welcome to bring along friends and family.

Register for the Halcyon Berwick Open Day via the QR code below, or you can let our team know on 1800 050 050.

Help save the reservoir

By Harry Jensen, Save the Beaconsfield Reservoir Action Group

Save the Beaconsfield Reservoir Action Group and the Officer and District Community Association are holding a public meeting on October 11, at 7.30pm in the R.G. Porter Social Rooms, Officer Recreation Reserve, 20 Starling Rd, Officer.

We are inviting interested members of the Cardinia and Casey public, and members of Save the Beaconsfield Reservoir Action Group, to attend a public meeting on why Beaconsfield Reservoir should be saved.

Members of the public are encouraged to attend and bring along friends and family. We have arranged guest speakers including Dr Jaqueline Watt OAM, president of the Australian Heritage Advocacy Alliance, Emma Russell, Australian historian from History at Work, representatives of fishing associations such as VICFish and the Victorian Trout and Redfin Fishing Group, as well as politicians.We would love to have your attendance and it will give everyone an opportunity to ask questions. Refreshments will be available after the meeting.

We are also currently running a GoFundMe appeal to save this reservoir for future generations. This can be found in a post lower down on our Facebook page, so please join our Facebook members to see our articles. If you can provide a donation as many have, it will help our campaign.

In 2018, Melbourne Water MW) presented the community with four options for an upgrade to Beaconsfield Reservoir. Those options included:

· Do nothing (not an option due to ANCOLD safety upgrade requirements on all state reservoirs).

· Full decommissioning (remove dam wall completely - not regarded as acceptable).

· Full dam safety upgrade (the preferred option by Save the Beaconsfield Reservoir Action Group, the majority of the local com-

munity and general public - more expensive to construct than option four, but no final costing provided by MW).

· Partial decommissioning (MW’s preferred option - cheaper construction cost indicated by MW, but no specific final cost presented by MW).

The community have made it very clear to MW and the Minister for Water that they have chosen MW’s option three, full dam safety upgrade, for Beaconsfield Reservoir. However, MW and the Water Minister have informed us that they only support option four, partial decommissioning.

The following are some factual details about the history of Beaconsfield Reservoir and why it’s important to fight to save it for the public and future generations. In 1912, Prime Minister Andrew Fisher informed the Victorian Premier, William Alexander Watt of the need to provide drinking water for the construction site of the Federal Government’s Flinders Naval Base. A new reservoir was needed to deliver piped drinking water, in place of the water which had been supplied in barrels, due to the undrinkable water quality available on the Mornington Peninsula.

This was the catalyst for building Beaconsfield Reservoir, which was part of an immense Mornington Peninsula Water Supply Scheme of over 100km in length. Beaconsfield Reservoir was constructed as a holding basin be-

tween 1916 - 1918 and supplied the lower reservoirs of Frankston, Mornington, Dromana, Bittern, and the all important reservoir for HMAS Cerberus at Crib Point. Currently, Beaconsfield Reservoir is all but forgotten now, located in picturesque bushland between O’Neil Rd Beaconsfield, Hughendon Rd Upper Beaconsfield and Dickie Rd Officer. The Save the Beaconsfield Reservoir Action Group Committee (SBRAG) are convinced that it has cultural significance and heritage values and needs to be preserved for the Australian public and this view is supported by our 1200 current members. MW should not be allowed to demolish it before the public and Parliament have had an opportunity to be consulted on this decision!

Without any community consultation or discussion prior to 2018, MW made the decision to decrease Beaconsfield Reservoir’s current “decommissioned” water volume from 525 megalitres to a relatively minor 90 megalitres.That’s a reduction in stored water capacity of 83 per cent, or in other words that is a loss of five out of six MCGs in water surface. Can that be called an “upgrade”? In addition, this “upgrade” also includes removing the top 8 metres of the 105 year old reservoir’s historic wall and pushing it over the side.That’s some“upgrade”.

It has been stated by some MW executives that this decision is more about a financial decision to save on weekly maintenance inspections. In 2018, MW informed the public that it would

leave a depth of 2 metres of water with a mere 30 megalitres capacity. However, this decision was changed in 2019 after I brought to MW’s attention that the Emergency Services Commissioner, Andrew Crisp, advised Brad Battin, our then local MP, that the reservoir could be used for aerial fire fighting. As a result, MW changed the water’s proposed height from 2 metres to 4 metres with an increase in water volume to 90 megalitres, in order to allow helicopters to collect water for firefighting.

MW’s decision to dramatically reduce the water capacity from 525 to 90 megalitres will have devastating consequences for residents in surrounding communities due to greater bushfire risk. The flora and flora within the Beaconsfield Nature Conservation Reserve will also be at greater risk due to the loss of this water which they have become reliant upon for 105 years. The current mature trees and ecosystems will begin to dry out and suffer from drought conditions, resulting in many dying, thereby further hastening climate change and severe bushfire conditions in the area.

It is a question that everyone should think about writing to Melbourne Water’s corporate site. You may get a response similar to the reply that our committee received from the Water Minister, Harriet Shing MP this week, explaining that Melbourne Water’s decision to drain and bulldoze Beaconsfield Reservoir is simply based on community safety. We need to continue to ask why, and what are the visible safety issues MW are concerned about? The reservoir operated for 70 years at its full 912 megalitres capacity, with water continually being supplied from Tarago Reservoir on a 24/7 basis, and there weren’t any safety concerns mentioned then. In fact, so much water was being delivered to Beaconsfield Reservoir, that it was overflowing out of the spillway and creating a constantly flowing Gumscrub Ck.

Facebook: Save the Beaconsfield Reservoir Action Group

Email: SaveBeaconsfieldReservoir@gmail.com

Council’s controversial deal extended for six months

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-andwife 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 re-

gard to 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 participate 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.”

Refresh for biosphere

The Western Port Biosphere has hit refresh on its brand and strategy for the next decade following confirmation of its UNESCO status and a growing presence in shaping the future for the Western Port Biosphere Reserve.

Western Port Biosphere Reserve Foundation chief executive Mel Barker said there were many factors that made this the perfect time to present a fresh face to the world, particularly the stakeholders and communities that supported a vision that would ensure the preservation of the reserve’s environment for future generations.

“We are celebrating the 20th anniversary of successfully advocating for Western Port’s recognition and acceptance into the international UNESCO Biosphere network,” Ms Barker said.

“This is the first time since the establishment of the reserve that we have reviewed and updated its brand.

“The recent acknowledgement of our progress by UNESCO, substantial funding for blue carbon development from the Victorian Government and growing partnerships with traditional owners, community and with public and private sector organisations enables us to confidently move forward to address the numerous challenges facingWestern Port.”

The foundation’s top priorities encompass several key areas:

· Advocating for the creation of a strategic framework forWestern Port.

· Advocacy relating to commercial development proposals for Western Port proposals forWestern Port.

· Enhancing community awareness and pre-

serving ecologically vital and internationally significant habitats, including Ramsar wetlands, blue carbon ecosystems (mangroves, salt marshes, and seagrass), and Bryozoan reefs.

· Establishing a biolink to connect the nationally significant Western Port Woodlands on the Bass Coast, while ensuring effective

communication between neighbouring sand quarries and the community.

· Securing support to develop critical biolinks to maintain and support the reserve’s biodiversity.

The reserve foundation has also presented a new Western Port Biosphere logo, which wraps

representations of flora and fauna associated with the reserve with habitat and community. It is more distinctive and contemporary, the foundation said, lending itself to easier recognition over time in digital communications channels through which the Foundation has been increasing its reach over recent months.

FOCUS ON … EARLY LEARNING & PRIMARY

Making mistakes is crucial for kids to learn

It’s important for children to learn that it’s OK to make mistakes, a parenting expert says.

Dr Justin Coulson is the author of nine parenting books and co-host of Channel Nine TV show Parental Guidance.

“From toddlerhood to teenage years, one thing is certain – we all make mistakes,” he said.

“How we handle mistakes and how we learn from them in childhood can set us up for life.”

Dr Coulson shares his top tips on mistakemaking:

· Calm the storm

Emotions can start to rise as your child tries a task for the first time, or learns something new.

“They’ll try and try and then – bam – it all ends in tears,” he says.

“The item is thrown, the artwork screwed up and your little one is kicking their legs on the floor.”

Dr Coulson says it’s easy to jump in and try to fix the problem for them.

“But the best option is to wait calmly and quietly for the temper to subside and tears to dry,” he says.

“Then, when they’re calm, encourage them to try again.

“It may take some gentle guidance from you but, in the end, they will feel proud that they achieved their goal and they learned something along the way – if at first you don’t succeed, try and try again.

· Fear of failure

Parents with school-aged kids often tell Dr Coulson they see their child becoming despondent or disengaged with schoolwork and after-school activities.

“This presents an opportunity to connect with your child and find out what’s really going on,” he says.

“Often it can be a confidence issue down to fear of failure.”

He urges parents to explore the ‘worst case scenario’ with their child - what would happen

if they did try and fail? How bad would it be and what would they learn from it?

“Sometimes, by taking them down the path of failure, they can actually feel empowered to take control and move from fear to acceptance by trying something new,” he says.

· Attitude

As with everything in life, having a good attitude can change your perspective.

“Having a ‘never mind, try again’ attitude can really help take the fear out of mistakemaking and help children place their mistakes into perspective,” Dr Coulson says.

“Bouncing back from mistakes is a valuable lesson in resilience – something that will stand your children in good stead in life.”

· Lighten up

Kids learn by example.

“If they see you bounce back from a fail, they are likely to bounce, too,” Dr Coulson says.

“Share with them your success and failure stories.

“Throw in some humour to make them laugh. There’s something about laughter that can really lighten up the‘heaviness’ and fear of mistake-making.”

Share the outcomes and learnings, too, so kids know that mistakes can lead to understanding and new beginnings or different ways of doing things.

· Practice again and again

Researchers have found that our kids feel pressure when we ask them to do something perfectly.

“But when we ask them to do something over and over again, the pressure comes offand they improve,” Dr Coulson says.

“The mistakes don’t matter because it’s about quantity rather than quality…but with quantity comes the expertise that practice promotes, which ultimately drives quality.

“This builds competence for kids, which is incredible for their resilience.”

The Western Port Biosphere Reserve Foundation has set forth a new vision for the UNESCO recognised site. Picture: SUPPLIED

It’s show time in Doveton

From the best showbags to cuddly creatures, this year’s Doveton Show will have something for visitors of all ages.

Running from 10am to 4pm on Sunday 17 September at Myuna Farm in Doveton, there will be stage and farm entertainment, rides, art and craft displays, train rides to tour the farm, animals, free face painting, market and food stalls and emergency service representatives including SES, CFA, Victoria Police and Neighbourhood Watch Casey, as well as live entertainment including magic shows, local musicians, singers and performers.

Committee member Damien Rosario said the show was nearing its 20th year.

“The Doveton Show was conceived as a low-cost alternative to the Royal Melbourne Show for the local residents to attend without having to travel into the city to enjoy a family day out,” he said.

“With the rising costs of living and families having to reduce spending, the Doveton Show provides the opportunity to have fun without breaking the budget.

“The Doveton Show Committee works hard to plan and balance its budget and costs responsibly to ensure that the show is sustainably run.”

Mr Rosario said the show was managed and ran by volunteers and the community’s support.

“The show hosts local businesses, community groups, performing arts, sporting clubs as well as arts and crafts, enabling them to fundraise for their important activities,” he said.

“The City of Casey and Myuna Farm’s unwavering support to the Doveton Show Committee has helped us make the show a huge success.”

For more information, visit dovetonshow. org.au

‘Steel-ing’ the spotlight at WorldSkills championships

By Matthew Sims Berwick

College student Justin Wilson has proved his worth on a national stage in metalworking and engineering, taking home a bronze medal at the 2023 WorldSkills Australia National Championships recently in the VET in Schools VETiSMetals and Engineering competition.

Held from Thursday 17 to Saturday 19 August at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, the event involved people showcasing their skills obtained via vocational education and training.

The third place was made more special for Justin with his father David being a key part of the competitions, having designed the section he competed in, as well as being a trades teacher at Ringwood Training, where Justin undertakes his VETiS Metals and Engineering course.

After placing first in the regional competition, Justin qualified for the national competition, which involved competitors having to design and complete a project over a three-day period, as well as a short written test.

“We had to make everything from scratch,” he said.

“It was pretty stressful, but I had a plan for what I was going to do.

“I’m really happy with how everything came out.”

Justin made a sheet metal tool box and a tool tray during the competition.

He said he had a few hours to spare near the end and took his time to refine the work as much as possible and said he was “thrilled” with a bronze medal.

“I just put in the extra effort,” Justin said.

He said he loved seeing his work come to life from design to construction and seeing a work come together piece by piece.

“It can be very fine work,” Justin said.

In his spare time, Justin said he has built a number of functional works, including a workbench and a birdcage.

Hero firefighters awarded

From page 1

“He said, ‘Mate, nothing’s going to happen to her, she’ll be fine’,” Mrs Barker said.

“It was something that I needed to do.

“I’m not a person that can stand by and not do anything.”

Peter said CFA volunteers were always the first ones on scene in any emergency.

“We’ve always been the ones that step forward,” he said.

“Where others run away, the fire fighters run towards.

“I was very glad to be a part of it.”

Mrs Barker said one of the most significant things was seeing the ‘thank you’ messages she received from people in the townships and signs put up thanking the visiting fire fighters, as well as receiving free cups of coffee from local residents.

“That hits hard, that meant a lot.

“It is overwhelming,” she said.

Berwick College student Justin Wilson took home the bronze medal for his tool box creation at the 2023 WorldSkills Australia National Championships. 358840

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

He said he was looking to become an apprentice in carpentry after school with engineering as a potential backup.

“It’s very humbling.”

Peter said he had not yet unpacked his ‘go pack’ from his trip.

“I need to be prepared and ready to go,” he said.

“You just never want to be caught off guard.”

Reflecting on what lessons the Black Summer bushfires had taught firefighters or Australia at large, he said the main lesson was that the next major bushfire event was something Australia needs to be ready for.

“We can’t change the past,” he said.

“This year could be another big fire season.

“It’s something that we prepare for.”

Doveton Show committee member Damien Rosario, treasurer Stefan Koomen, the KC Neighbourhood Watch Dog and chair Michelle Ryan. 359568

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Father and son Peter and Grant Lynch were proud to receive the National Emergency Medals for their service during the 2019/2020 Black Summer bushfires. Picture: SUPPLIED

Narre Warren firefighter Peter Lynch. 358539

FOCUS ON … DISABILITY

New chances

Support Embrace Connect began in 2020 by Donna, who has spent her whole life in Casey, growing up in Hampton Park and residing in Berwick for the past 14 years with her four kids.

I was working in aged care and endured a workplace injury, causing me to find a new avenue of work. I was misplaced and believed I would never work again at the time and then I decided to reeducate myself. I have always loved helping others and thought this would be the perfect opportunity for me to work in a field where I could do just that. Once I completed my studies, I was supported to gain employment through a Disability Employment Agency and started working in Disability Support which I loved.

Sadly the company did not have the same outlook of support as I had, so I decided to leave and start my own business and Support Embrace Connect (SEC) was born.

I am very passionate about not only supporting participants but also my employees, we have social get-togethers and I do upskill training with my team regularly. Our team are easy going and adaptable people who have compassion and drive to help participants access the best support possible while improving their daily lives with meaningful community access, and engagement as well as daily life skills and support with so much more.

At SEC we have an individualised care plan for each person we work with, and we also run groups for cooking, art, and walk and talk groups to support our participants in access-

ing the community and being a part of it. We have had great success with our small groups, with participants looking forward to the next group running and catching up with participants out in the community they have met. Our newest group is for all of the Pokemon lovers, where they meet up in the community and play Pokemon together and battle each other.

We pride ourselves on having regular scheduled support with regular workers and go above and beyond for them. We are not just about turning up and taking them for a coffee and dropping them home. We are ensuring we are impacting their daily life and helping them with their steps toward their NDIS goals. We have seen fantastic growth in the participants we support in many different areas of their lives, and our team thrives on seeing the growth and personal development of the people they are supporting.

When asked for, we work in care team meetings to help the other services engage with the participant so that everyone is on the same page and the participants get a better outcome from all services. A team that communicates and supports the person in need will always have better outcomes than those who are disconnected and unaware of new changes and challenges of the participant; it’s also best practice for the participant as they do not have to repeat everything to each person.

For further information contact director Donna Poole 0484 679 364 - manager Brenda. supportembraceconnect.com.au

The unique ‘flying choir’

Melbourne Youth Chorale’s Flying Free Choir made a huge leap on Saturday 2 September at MYC’s 2023 Showcase Concert when they performed publicly for the first time to an audience of 200 people. Over the last 18 months these amazing children have developed their musical skill and confidence under the nurturing guidance of Monika Harris, Fiona Moseley and Indra Kreismanis. Through this time they have performed to each other, to their parents, to other choristers, and now this huge milestone, the public debut.

Supported by some choristers in MYC’s Heffernan Choir, the Flying Free Choir performed “It’s A Small World”. This beautiful song encapsulates the heart of MYC - that no matter who you are there are so many things that we all share, including the universal language of music.

At MYC we believe that everyone deserves the gift of music. The Flying Free Choir is unique, specifically tailored to children with additional needs. Children are enabled to learn music skills at their own pace, thoroughly and without overwhelm, while also exploring communication and

socialisation skills. Whether or not a child has a disability, this accessible program promotes self-expression and confidence, empowering children to achieve their best.

The Flying Free Choir is on Wednesdays 4.30pm-5.15pm at Hampton Park Secondary College. There are no set fees - MYC operates on a ’donate what you can afford’ basis. In some circumstances NDIS funding can be allocated to the Flying Free Choir. For more information, contact Kerry at manager.myc@gmail.com

The Flying Free Choir is unique, specifically tailored to children with additional needs.

Support Embrace Connect.

Report reveals ‘failures’

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

An IBAC anti-corruption report had exposed a “litany of governance failures” at Casey Council, says the council’s chair of administrators Noelene Duff.

Speaking at an IBAC-hosted webinar on 8 September, Ms Duff issued a stark quote from US political figure Henry Kissinger that “corrupt politicians make the other 10 per cent look bad”.

Local governments needed “fundamental shifts” in policy and behaviour to “regain community confidence and credibility”, she said.

Reflecting on IBAC’s recent Operation Sandon report into alleged corruption by Casey councillors and property developers, Ms Duff said it was a “very sobering read”.

“The council chamber appeared to have become a stage rather than a place where serious decisions should be made to plot the future direction of the city.

“It has been distressing to reflect on some of the evidence collected by IBAC, the events documented, the conversations taped and the stories by witnesses could actually occur.”

In 2020, all Casey councillors were sacked by the State Government during IBAC’s Operation Sandon probe into alleged corruption.

Ms Duff was appointed as the head of a three-person administration panel to replace the councillors until elections in October 2024.

“Walking into an organisation where a council has been sacked for suspected serious corruption is quite an experience,” she said.

“Depriving a community of their elected representatives for nearly five years is a pretty big price to pay.”

The administrators focused on“cementing” the “best practices we could find” for Casey to do business.

In the past there had been an “us and them”

division growing between officers and councillors.

Councillors were diverting the council from its “proper business” through “endless notices of motion” .

Some “simple examples” were councillors getting involved in house-numbering and the detailed allocation of sports facilities.

This diverted the council from “managing the massive challenges of growth”.

Ms Duff also raised the councillor group’s “apparent culture of silence” with councillors not speaking up about the behaviour they observed.

She said more immediate means of challenging suspected corrupt behaviour was a “necessity”.

Political parties had mechanisms to act, but councillors did not. Mayors may or may not have the skills to manage, and council chief executives have only “limited” tools to intervene, she noted.

Ms Duff also agreed with IBAC that a higher level of councillor training was required, particularly for new councillors.

IBAC had reported councillors not reading material before voting on planning decisions, but rather relied on other councillors’ direction.

“If this is a widespread practice in the sector, that is a significant concern.”

The Sandon report made 34 recommendations, including fundamental changes to the state’s planning process to reduce corruption risks.

It found that councillors Sam Aziz and Geoff Ablett promoted developer John Woodman and his client’s interests in exchange for payments and in-kind support.

They both failed to declare this conflict of interest on many occasions, IBAC found.

Casey chair of administrators Noelene Duff, who outlined ways for councils to regain public confidence. 234014

Picture: GARY SISSONS

Small Business THE HEART

OF BEACONSFIELD

Central Hotel

Welcome to the ultimate SOUTH EAST social hub, Cental Hotel Beaconsfield. Your destination for all things fantastic. Experience entertainment and nightlife like never before, all in the vibrant ambiance of our Beer Garden. Find us at 1 Old Princes Highway, Beaconsfield, 3807, Victoria, nestled in Australia’s scenic beauty. Your one-stop shop for an unforgettable time, right here.

Little Warriors Physio for Kids

Does your child have difficulty with movement or cannot keep up with their friends? Is your child slower to gain their gross motor skills or have they been diagnosed with a genetic/neurological disorder where they need some help to gain skills to help them live life? At LittleWarriors Physio for Kids, we use play and movement to empower your child to gain the skills they need to be a part of their world. We make physio fun!

Casey Osteopathic Health Services

Casey Osteopathic Health Services has been helping the Beaconsfield and greater Melbourne community for over 23 years. It consists of five Osteopaths who all hold a double degree and are members of Osteopathy Australia. The Myotherapist holds an Advanced Diploma and is also a qualified remedial massage therapist.

Beaconsfield Automotive Services

For years, Beaconsfield Automotive Services has been devoted to customer satisfaction. Our array of services covers everything from batteries to diagnostics, guaranteeing your contentment. We take immense pride in our work, striving to stand out.With a focus on excellence, we ensure that every customer departs content. Experience the distinction with Beaconsfield Automotive Services - where your vehicle’s well-being is our paramount concern. 94 Princes Hwy, Beaconsfield VIC 3807. Phone: (03) 9707 4468.

Tudor Insurance

Tudor Insurance Australia has been providing peace of mind in the local area since 1985. We ensure the protection of your personal and business assets, enabling you to get on with life

with confidence. Our customised insurance offerings are designed through collaboration with you, understanding your unique needs and risks.We are your trusted local partner, offering tailored coverage from Home & Contents, Car, Landlords and all Business Insurances, for any industries. Count on our local expertise and support from quote to claim. AFS LICENCE 243 299 | ABN 19 876 513 568.

Secret Headquarters

Welcome to Secret Headquarters (SHQ), your family-owned haven for comic books and collectibles in Melbourne, Victoria. Since 2012, we’ve thrived, starting at Berwick’s Akoonah Park Market, and blossomed into our brickand-mortar store in Beaconsfield in 2015. Our eventslikeFreeComicBookDayandHalloween Comicfest unite our community and showcase local creators. Explore comics, graphic novels, toys, and more at 3/2 Beaconsfield Emerald Road. Join our nerdy haven! P: 0437 933 790.

Beaconsfield Mowers

Beaconsfield Mowers, your go-to source for all things lawn and garden, provides a comprehensive range of products, repairs, and equipment services. Featuring renowned brands like Husqvarna, Bushranger, Gravely, Stiga, and more, we offer blowers, lawn mowers, chainsaws, and ride-on mowers, along with expert advice. Our seasoned mechanics offer on-site consultations and mowing demos, ensuring the right equipment fit. Count on us for reliable maintenance and servicing, backed by Owner Daniel Collard’s 35 years of industry insight. Discover exceptional repairs for various mower and power tool brands. Beaconsfield Mowers: Your garden’s best friend.

Beaconsfield Auto Electrics & Mechanical

For more than four decades, Beaconsfield’s reliable auto-electrician and mechanic have faithfully served the community. Family-owned and operated, Beaconsfield Auto Electrics & Mechanical has been a steadfast presence since he late ’70s, offering a comprehensive range of automotive electrical and mechanical repairs, including expertise in automotive air conditioning. Stop by to meet the dedicated team behind this enduring local business.

Beaconsfield midfielder Tylah Stokoe drives the Eagles forward against Lilydale. 338716

Picture: GARY SISSONS

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Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre

Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre is a not-for-profit community managed centre, with a volunteer Committee of Management that provides strategic direction and oversight.

For more than 30 years, the centre has provided a range of high-quality childcare, community services, educational classes and spaces for hire.

Fun Filled Community Open Day is on Saturday 14 October. Explore diverse activities and engage with fellow community members. Lots of free family fun, sausage sizzle, animal nursery, popcorn, and fairy floss.

Ageing Positively month by the City of Casey with free events every Wednesday in October including morning tea with homemade scones and jam, sausage sizzle in the park, gardening activities.

Free Computer classes through the Be Connected program for senior residents commencing Wednesday 11 October.

Four free sessions with help available on-site for the elderly who struggle to get online - Monday 16 October to Friday 20 October.

· For more details, visit merindapark.com.au or facebook.com/MPLandCC

Narre Warren and District Family History Group

Goronga: A hill station garden in the Dandenongs.

L’Arte Central Social Enterprise Cafe Training Room 2/65 Berwick-Cranbourne Road, Cranbourne East and via Zoom.

Berwick Pakenham Historical Society president

Elizabeth Fraser OAM will be talking about her home Goronga, at Pakenham Upper.

The 60-acre farm was established in the 1870s, and 20 years later began the establishment of gardens around the house.

Elizabeth’s chance encounter with a member of the Australian Garden History Society at an open day then lead to a two-year project to record the history of the property and the publication of a book in September 2022.

You can join the group for a lunch and social gathering at noon in the L’Arte Central Social Enterprise Cafe Training Room.

The Dendrobium Pink Ballerina. 358302 Picture: ANYES SALAMA

Lunches do need to be pre-ordered (by Thursdays before the meeting) and paid for on the day.

For more information, contact Eileen at secretary@nwfhg.org.au

· 2pm, Saturday 16 September – General Meeting.

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.

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.

· The gallery is run by volunteers and is open every weekend from 10am to 3pm. For more information, visit secan.com.au

Berwick Orchid Club Spring Show

Flowering plant displays, flowering orchids for sale, growing information and demonstrations. 112 High Street, Berwick. Plenty of free parking, wheelchair access. $5 adults and $3 concession.

· 23 and 24 September

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.

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.

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.

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

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!

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

· 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

Berwick Activities Club

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

· Membership is only 10 dollars with a $5 weekly attendance fee which includes morning tea. For more information phone David on 0433 566 456 or Bruce 0447 554 475.

FOCUS ON … SCHOOL HOLIDAYS Racing champion in town

Get ready race fans, because something thrilling is about to hit Fountain Gate!

On Thursday, September 14, at 6pm, the Fountain Gate LOWES store is set to host a meet and greet event that’s sure to get your heart racing. Racing champion Cam Waters will be making an appearance in store ahead of the upcoming Sandown 500 race, and is more than eager to connect with devoted fans.

This event not only gives fans the chance to meet the incredible racer but also offers a fantastic opportunity to get up close and personal. Cam Waters, one of Tickford Racing’s finest, shared his enthusiasm for the upcoming Sandown 500 race, saying, “It’s great to have the Sandown 500 back on the calendar, we won it in 2017, and hopefully, we can do it again.”

His determination and passion for racing are evident, and his fans can’t wait to rally behind him.

Cam Waters himself recognises the significance of this event, stating, “For the team, we’re obviously Melbourne-based so to have a home race is fantastic and to be able to get along to Fountain Gate and see all the fans at LOWES the night before we hit the track for the first time is amazing!”

Waters’ appreciation for the fans who support him and his team is heartwarming and speaks to the close-knit racing community.

In addition to the chance to meet Cam, fans will have the opportunity to take home a piece of the excitement. 300 posters will be available for fans to get autographed by Cam Waters, and the best part is that these posters are absolutely FREE. It’s a gesture of appreciation, allowing fans to leave with a cherished memento from this special event.

But that’s not all! LOWES is taking the excite-

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attire

Get ready race fans, because something thrilling is about to hit Fountain Gate on Thursday, 14 September, at 6pm, at the Fountain Gate LOWES store.

WHAT’S ON

ON … FOSTER CARE MONTH

Help children in need

Are you ready to make a lasting impact on a young life? Partner with Berry Street this Foster Care Week and join their dedicated team committed to nurturing and empowering children and young people on their unique journeys.

As a Berry Street foster carer, you’ll support local children and young people at a crucial moment in their life.

As one ofVictoria’s largest providers of outof-home care, Berry Street provides children and young people who have experienced trauma with a safe and secure place to live.

For over 145 years, they’ve supported children and young people in Victoria at whatever point in their journey that they need help.

“Childhood is a journey, but not every child has the same opportunities, which is why we need foster carers to play an empowering role in a child’s or young person’s life,” said Melissa Robertson, Berry Street’s team leader of Foster Care Recruitment, Assessment, and Training.

“This Foster Care Week, we’re encouraging Gippsland residents to start their foster care journey - you never know where it will take you. The team and I will be there to support you every step of the way, as you learn and grow in your new caring role,” she said.

Berry Street welcomes foster carers from diverse backgrounds, cultures and experiences.

For more information and to start your foster care journey, visit berrystreet.org.au/ fostercare

Partner with Berry Street and support a local child.

More support for kinship and foster carers

The State Government has boosted practical support for Victorian kinship and foster families with a help desk service that assists carers in their important roles in our community.

The Care Support Help Desk, launched in 2022, assists carers navigating the children and families service system to access important information and vital documents for children in their care, including

birth certificates and Medicare information. The service also eases the administrative burden on Child Protection practitioners, giving them more time to actively engage with children, families and carers.

The service, run by the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing, operates from 9am to 5pm on weekdays. Find your closest team at services.dffh.vic.gov.au/foster-care or by calling 1300 475 170.

Be a positive influence

Local foster care agency, OzChild is looking for families who might be interested in opening their homes, and their hearts for a few nights, weeks or months to a child in need.

At OZCHILD they believe that a child has the right to live within a stable family home, not in staffed residential care facilities or hotels.

Chief executive officer Dr Lisa Griffiths says too many children are growing up away from family, residing in group homes with other children they don’t know.

“Without the stability of a family home many become disconnected from school and the community, which leads to a lifetime of disadvantage,” Dr Griffiths said.

That’s why the agency is keen to hear from individuals and families in Melbourne’s western and south-eastern suburbs who would consider becoming foster carers.

Australian Institute of Health and Welfare Child Protection data indicates that in Victoria there are almost 10,000 kids in care, some live with close family or next of kin, but many are placed into foster care. With an increasing number of local children in need of temporary homes, OzChild is on a desperate search for people who can help.

“Every child, no matter the age or their circumstances, deserves to be supported with the opportunity to heal, grow and thrive. We can and we must do better.

“But we can’t do it alone. We need the help of kind-hearted members of the community, those who think they can provide a safe and positive living environment, pass on simple life lessons like how to ride a bicycle or how to brush your teeth.” says Dr Griffiths.

People from all walks of life can be foster carers, including empty-nesters, singles or

couples who identify as LGBTQIA+. It does not matter what your cultural background is, and no qualifications or work-experience is needed.

Carers receive initial training and ongoing education, along with financial assistance and access to a network of professionals and a vil-

lage of carers offering support and guidance, especially for new carers.

“We want to make sure our carers have the tools and resources they need to succeed, that includes access to school drop off and pickup services, babysitter reimbursements, school holiday programs and allowances to ensure

caring for a child or young person can fit in with your personal circumstances,” adds Dr Griffiths.

Fostering not only benefits the child in your care, many foster parents find that fostering enriches their family life and teaches their own children invaluable life lessons about empathy, kindness, and understanding.

“The decision to care really can change the lives of many, and create a brighter future for generations to come. I encourage anyone who has the capacity to care to take the first step today, I have never met a carer who has regretted the decision, only those who say they wish they’d done it sooner.”

To learn more about becoming a foster carer with OzChild interested individuals are encouraged to visit ozchild.org.au. The organisation’s dedicated team is ready to provide information, answer questions, and guide potential foster carers through the application process.

OzChild is appealing to families who may be interested in foster care.

Tips for work-life balance

TAKING CARE IAN ASH OF BUSINESS

I wonder how many people reading this article are feeling overworked or know someone that is? Burnout is the scourge of our times and unfortunately tends to be suffered most by conscientious people.

Ask them why they are working so hard and they will invariably tell you that they are doing it for the family, yet ironically if you were to ask the rest of the family about the situation, chances are that they will complain they rarely see the hardworking business owner and worry about the impact on their health.

So here are my five top tips for achieving a reasonable work-life balance:

1.Set time aside each week to work on the business

When I set my own business up years ago, this was the best advice I received.

If there is a lot of seemingly urgent stuff that needs to get done, it is often the important, non-urgent stuff that gets overlooked.

Yet this is where the gold is. This provides the circuit-breaker you need to determine what really matters, prioritise, restructure, replan, even invoice customers.

This can be the space where new ideas flourish and a perspective on the big picture can be taken.

2. Define your company structure

If your business has staff, ensure you have a clear and documented organisational structure with well-defined roles and responsibilities.

This provides a great opportunity to iden-

tify others who could take on some of what you are currently doing and not only alleviate your own workload but also increase the responsibility and job satisfaction of other staff members.

There is a general rule that states if a staff member can do something 70 per cent as well as you, they should be doing it. If you are a sole proprietor, then this equates to identifying the key functions in your business and ensuring that specific time is

allocated to these as required each week.

3. Prioritise your work

When I ask people in business if they have enough time to do everything that they would like to get done, I am yet to find anyone who says they have.

The only antidote to this is to effectively prioritise. This is the basis of efficiency and why some people seem to achieve so much whereas the rest of us wonder at their output.

The key here is to distinguish between tasks that are urgent and/or important.

Urgent and important tasks must obviously be done first but time needs to be allocated for the important (non-urgent) stuff.

Often the latter can easily get dropped or rescheduled but it is these that have the most profound impact so apply point one as above.

4. Put boundaries around family life

Easier to say than do when there appears to be so much going on in the business and so many deadlines to achieve, however, this will enable you to come back to work with a fresh perspective and actually improve efficiency.

In his excellent book ‘Rest’, Alex SoojungKim Pang describes how ‘work’ and ‘rest’ are essentially two sides of the same coin, i.e. you can’t be truly effective in one unless you are effective in the other, but more importantly, you will be spending time with people who matter most, i.e. those you are actually working for!

5. Don’t be afraid to say no

Conscientious people want to achieve, and they don’t want to let people down.

To them, meeting commitments is extremely important since it also reflects on their character.

However, in these busy times, too often we make commitments before really thinking through whether they can be achieved or not.

Taking the time to consider whether a request can be truly accommodated by factoring in required resources, other competing priorities and available bandwidth may lead to the conclusion that something cannot be done.

If so, far better to disappoint early on than agree to something and fail to deliver by the committed date.

This is far more painful for everyone.

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

Bravo, beauty therapist

Berwick’s SANA Skin Clinic beauty therapist Karla Jaudzems has taken out the Junior Therapist of the Year award at this year’s Australian Beauty Industry Awards.

Held on Sunday 27 August, about 700 of the country’s most aesthetically clinical, creative, and entrepreneurial minds gathered at The Star in Sydney to celebrate the best achievements within the industry.

Ms Jaudzems was recognised for forming warm and trusting relationships with her clients through a strong focus on skin and body treatments, striving to improve her clients’ self-confidence through helping them to look and feel their best, ultimately heightening their overall sense of wellbeing and positivity.

Long-time MC Will Fennell led the evening as the 36 winners were announced.

SANA Skin Clinic also reached a spot into the finalist ranks in the categories of Australia’s best team of the year, best customer care and Victorian clinic of the year.

SANA Skin Clinic’s Georgia Clements was also named as a finalist running for the junior therapist awards.

Established in 2015, SANA Skin Clinic is a boutique style clinic offering a clean, relaxing, inviting and nurturing atmosphere with a philosophy that general well-being is not only the new currency, but also leads to a more vibrant, healthy appearance, improved confidence and overall better results.

Partnered with dermatological grade skincare prescriptions, the SANA team work on the perfect balance of custom compounded home care and accompanying high end in-clinic treatment option along with in-clinic naturopathy.

Mocha Group founder and chief executive LindaWoodhead said the Berwick community should be proud of Ms Jaudzems’ achievements.

“Karla is the perfect example of an up and coming industry leader and will make an excellent ambassador for the awards program this year,” she said.

SANA Skin Clinic beauty therapist Karla Jaudzems received the Junior Therapist of the Year at this year’s Australian Beauty Industry Awards. Picture: SUPPLIED

“As with all our 2023 winners she is now looked to as one of the brightest young stars of the beauty industry.”

Achieving work-life balance is a key part of sustaining a successful business. Picture: UNSPLASH

Spring show set to blossom

By Eleanor Wilson

Berwick Senior Citizens Hall will be transformed into an orchid oasis later this month, as hundreds of plants move in for the Berwick Orchid Spring Show.

A plethora of native and exotic orchids will be sized up for awards and prizes, while hundreds of plants will also be available for plant lovers to purchase.

Berwick Orchid Show president Murray Harding said the show is an annual delight for the community.

“I can tell you almost everybody has an orchid story,” Mr Harding said.

“You’ll be at a show and people will con-

stantly come up and have stories about the orchid mum had before she died, or an orchid they were given as a gift.”

Mr Harding’s own passion for the flowering plant came when he was asked to look after his father’s orchids.

He now has a personal collection of about 10,000 plants - a “hobby gone mad” for the orchid expert and judge.

“It is probably the most prolific flowering plant in the world, there’s only a couple of continents that don’t have orchids.”

The Berwick Orchid Spring Show will take place on 23 and 24 September from 9am to 4pm, with orchid experts attending to offer horticultural advice.

Berwick Orchid Club president Murray Harding holds a Dendrobium Falcorostrum.

Picture: ROB CAREW

A Dendrobium Pink Ballerina.

Picture: ANYES SALAMA

The Paphiopedilum Insigne is an Asian species of slipper orchid.

Picture: ANYES SALAMA

The Miltassia Estrellita is an Oncidium type orchid with large star shaped flowers.

Picture: ANYES SALAMA

Ascocenda Princess Mikasa Blue.

Picture: ANYES SALAMA

A Dracula Lucifer is one of hundreds set to be displayed at the spring show.

Picture: ANYES SALAMA

Your regional newspaper offers so

‘Fit’ team in fine form

A group of Berwick locals have pushed their bodies to the limit as part of an endurance event.

Taking place on Saturday 26 August, the event involved competitors from across the state filling out the Melbourne Showgrounds combining running and functional workout stations across four different categories.

Body Fit Training Berwick studio owner Baelee Kireka-Mark said the event consisted of eight one-kilometre runs with a functional workout station following each run.

“To support its expansion into the Asia Pacific region, Hyrox partnered with Body Fit Training (BFT) who are now the official training partner to the fitness racing event and provide a specific training program for their members that are competing, in the lead up to the event,” she said.

“This Hyrox specific training took place for 10 weeks prior to the event, every Sunday, to provide the members with the preparation required to take on the event.

“Our training at BFT is aligned very closely with the sport of Hyrox itself, hence the partnership, so our members are very well conditioned to the demands of the event.”

Ms Kireka-Mark said the training program required hard work from the competitors

“The hard work they put into their Sunday sessions took a lot of extra commitment and dedication to build the endurance required for the event which can take anywhere upwards of 90 minutes,” she said.

“BFT Berwick had over 30 members, aged from 17 to 62, compete across the solo, doubles, and relay divisions.

“It was great to see every one of our athletes not just cross the finish line, but achieve great finishing times as well.”

Ms Kireka-Mark said the teams and duos combined members of different ages, members and coaches competing alongside each other.

Individuals who had never done anything like this before competing in the event entirely on their own,” she said.

“We were extremely proud of all of our members who competed on the day and grateful for those who came down to support them.

“Our members are already looking forward to next year’s event, and we are sure we will have even more members representing BFT Berwick at the next Hyrox race.”

The Berwick BFT team.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

The sled push event.

The event was a team effort.One of the Berwick members on the row machine.

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SPORT

At Carrum Downs Recreation Reserve on Sunday, Endeavour Hills claimed its maiden premiership over Frankston Dolphins 13.16 94 to 11.11 77. This is the story of how they did it.

Falcons now flying a flag

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Amid a swarm of fans, rhythmic drumming from the Frankston Dolphins cheer-squad and bellowing support for both teams, there was a sense of calm at the Endeavour Hills threequarter-time huddle.

Like at quarter time and halftime, the Falcons trailed Frankston, forced to play catch up after being beaten in the contest in the first quarter.

But the game was on Hills’ terms.

The saying ‘that the will of depth players to stand up in big moments wins flags’ proved true in the premiership quarter when a suite of unheralded defenders put their bodies on the line.

They absorbed an avalanche of Dolphins momentum, conceding 15 inside 50s, but only three goals, to lose the third quarter against the zephyr by just six points.

There was a series of huge plays in defensive 50 midway through the quarter to keep the margin manageable.

Ben Holland got an important fist in front of a one-on-one tussle in the goal-square to see a ball through for a behind.

Ben Swift got a touch to a kick into the goal-square from 60 that carried the pack and would otherwise have been a goal.

A Liam Hasler smother soon thereafter gave the fatiguing defence a momentary let-up from repeat stoppages, before a contested intercept mark to skipper Nathan Reid prevented their fleet-footed smalls getting to work.

Endeavour Hills faithful could have gathered together post game to write a song about the efforts of their doughty defenders on Sunday.

It was rightly an echo-chamber of praise.

Jimmy Archer was another who played with typical September grit, his one percenters in the first stanza earning praise on the sidelines from onlookers and coach Matt Peake at quarter time.

But at the last break, Peake needed to ground the group and harness the energy for a 13-year-old club seeking its first premiership after tasting grand final heartbreak in 2017-18.

The positivity and belief was embedded in the conscience of players, with Peake just needing to provide the spark for them to go once again.

It lit something in Jacob Grant, who played a special last quarter.

The Falcons’ intensity lifted from the start of the fourth, but they had only four behinds to show for a dominant first five minutes of play.

When Frankston finally got momentary territory, Grant laid a driving tackle on a more se-

nior opponent who would’ve tasted the turf as he was driven into Carrum Downs Recreation Reserve.

A minute later, he kicked the first of the quarter, working deep inside 50 to take a huge contested mark on the goal line when a set shot from Alex Cann fell short.

All season, the Falcons have been hoping to see as little of Grant as possible, cheering for the teenager’s selection at the Dandenong Stingrays andVic Country - but he turned it on at the crucial 11th hour.

Goals had been flowing all day, but the pressure dialled up in the final quarter, with Grant’s major breaking a 13-minute gridlock.

After that, though, Endeavour Hills never looked back.

Bailey Baumann, who was the first to wear the flag like a cape in the celebrations, won a clearance soon after, putting it in the direction

of Liam Hasler.

Those two have formed a potent one-two punch in the midfield in 2023 and are a big reason, alongside John Rafferty, why the clearance numbers have looked so good.

But in a grand final, it was a Hasler tackle which was crucial as he pounced on his opponent quickly, finding Cann, who took a onehanded mark inside 50 on the boundary line.

To give Endeavour Hills the lead for the first time in the second half approaching stoppage time, he kicked it from Dom Sheed territory.

Endeavour Hills continued coming, eventually wearing out the Dolphins, with Grant able to extend the margin beyond a goal and give his team breathing room.

When Hasler got a goal on transition deep into stoppage time, the lid was just about off, Endeavour Hills bringing sizzling heat and their style of footy.

Momentum building strong with Rays through to prelims

By Jonty Ralphsmith

If you want to get an indication of the progression of female footy in recent years, download the Coates League app and watch the first five minutes of the second quarter of Dandenong’s quarter-final win over GWV.

Having been challenged by the Rebels in the first quarter, who kept the Rays to just one goal with plucky defence despite giving up territory, the Stingrays went bang-bang.

Ruck Elli Symonds went inside 50 through the corridor but her kick was intercepted. She kept running, reading the exit kick like a book and, with surging velocity, hit it sweetly from outside 50.

Going up against fellow Vic Country ruck Laila Lappin, a year older than her, Symonds clearly won the duel with 21 hitouts to 12, while she also accumulated 20 possessions as well as that goal.

That piece of individual brilliance shifted the tide Dandenong’s way in a 9.11 65 to 0.1 1 win at Shepley Oval.

Two minutes later, fellow ruck Zoe Besanko had a similar moment of class.

The 179cm bottom-aged player weaved her way past three GWV opponents, walking the tightrope of the boundary line before snapping her conversion to increase the margin to 19 points.

It was one of Besanko’s five shots on goal, as she stood up inside 50, with Sophie Butterworth having just one shot on goal after scoring six times in each of her previous four games.

Dandenong had too much class on every line, with Meg Robertson and Abbey Tregellis getting it started in the middle.

Jemaya Bressan was also impressive, while Ruby Murdoch and Jemma Ramsdale ensured that the Rebels’18 inside 50 entries weren’t capitalised upon.

The win made it nine on the bounce for the Stingrays, who will this week take on Oakleigh, which consigned them to their last loss.

The Stingrays will enter full of confidence, though, their prime movers in form, bottomagers standing up and the 18-point defeat to Oakleigh in round five moreso down to a lack of polish and conversion rather than skill.

Zoe Besanko celebrates one of her two goals on Sunday. 359433 Picture: ROB CAREW

Alex Cann gives Endeavour Hills the lead. Premiership winning coach Matt Peake with skipper Nathan Reid.

Ben Virgona’s emotion on the final siren.Ryan Johnson celebrates as he is awarded his best-on-ground medal.

Players get around Jacob Grant after one of his last quarter goals.

The players celebrate the club’s maiden premiership. 359434

Picture: ROB CAREW

Magpies have will to win

By Marcus Uhe

Tom Miller found himself at the right place at ‘exactly’ the right time.

With a miscommunication between Wandin defenders forcing a scramble in the defensive 50, Hamish West’s attempted mark was brought to ground.

Awaiting a handball off the deck was Miller, the vice-captain whose position was under question after a syndesmosis injury sustained late in the season.

As the clock ticked down, he turned side-on to the goal face, snapped with his right foot, and watched with delight as the ball rolled through the unguarded goal square to put his side back in front by three points in the turbulent second semi-final, with a spot in the grand final at stake.

The hours in the pool, the weeks spent in a moon boot, the multiple expert opinions sought on his best recovery process and the diligence shown to get back on the park, was all worth it.

But with just 21 minutes played in the final term, the game was far from won.

In unfamiliar territory with a game up for grabs in the final minutes, the Magpies’ lategame situational training kicked into gear, finding uncontested marks to keep the precious seconds ticking away.

This Wandin side, however, won’t go away easily.

Through a chain of handballs on the wing, a rushed kick in the 28th minute saw them penetrate the Magpies’ defences for a final forward thrust.

Where Miller held his composure, Damien Furey, arguably Wandin’s best for the afternoon, fumbled and lost his feet on the slippery surface with the goals beckoning.

Swamped by relieved NarreWarren defenders, a series of stoppages deep in the forward pocket took more precious seconds away.

A rushed kick out of the backline was swallowed by Jordan Spencer 60 metres from goal, but the siren sounded as he pushed back off his mark.

Magpies flocked and hugged, before sprinting to the goal line to prevent Spencer’s kick from going through.

The attempted torpedo was unsuccessful,

however, meaning Narre Warren was home.

The relief on the faces of those in black and white was evident for all to see, deep breaths sucking away the oxygen in an already packed change rooms post-game.

For Shane Dwyer, the comfort blended with pride at his side’s ability to respond to adversity, having fallen behind and facing a Bulldogs onslaught in the final quarter.

“We were nine points down in the last quarter and we could have rolled-over,” the victorious coach said.

“To dig deep and get the win, is pretty good.

“We practice that, we do scenario footy almost every week at training.

“Three minutes to play, we do it against the twos, we’re either three points down or nine points down.

“It was good to see them get back into it and do it the way that they did.”

The bitter breeze at Officer brought with it a calming hush before the opening bounce, as silence descended across the outer in anticipation of a battle rife with expectations, connotations and stars on every line.

Wandin wasted no time in getting on the scoreboard, Aaron Mullett goaling within 30 seconds to instantly spark life into the contest.

The Magpies steadied and kicked the next two with their backs providing great drive, before Wandin responded with two of its own, Clint Johnson and Joel Garner keeping the Bulldogs in the contest against the flow of play.

The siren blew with three goals apiece in the opening quarter, both outfits making uncharacteristic errors as the height of the contest intensified, words exchanged as they separated to their respective huddles.

The strengthening wind blew Narre Warren’s way after the first change, further enhancing the steely forward press as Wandin struggled to move the ball.

Its midfielders found one-another with ease in the clinches, matching their Magpie counterparts at stoppages, but came uncharacteristically unstuck when ball hit boot, lacking the necessary penetration.

For all Narre Warren’s control, however, the only scoreboard pressure came via a goal from Tom Toner, for just a seven-point lead.

Todd Garner, Chayce Black and Leiwyn Jones withstood countless entries, and finally

received reward through the crafty Patrick Hodgett’s navigation of the wind at the other end to tie the scores.

Weight of numbers eventually tolled for the Magpies, as Lachlan Benson’s first secured an eight-point lead at the long break.

WithWandin slow to get into its groove after the interval, goals to West and Toner saw the Magpies stretch the lead to a game-high 22.

Shallow entries, perhaps a product of playing and training on the smaller playing surface at their home ground, were punished on the counter-attack by composed ball users in the Narre Warren forward 50, West and Riley Siwes the chief protagonists.

Wandin needed a response, and found one through Mullett, his cat-like reflexes on display against a diligent Cameron Miller, close to goal, reviving his side’s heartbeat after a Todd Garner rebound.

It was a brief period of respite for the Bulldogs, snowed-under by Magpies entries but holding firm in the eye of the storm.

West and Siwes could have put the game almost beyond reach with set shots, but both failed to score in moments of reprieve for the Bulldogs as momentum began to shift once more.

When Furey nailed a set shot from deep in the pocket in the shadows of three-quartertime, a 10-point buffer at the final break set the table for an anxious final term.

Wandin coach Nick Adam told his group he wanted a fight at the final break, and his side threw the first punch, Hodgett kicking his second to cut the lead to three.

Stoppage superiority and surge football gave Johnson his second, andWandin the lead, the first since late in the first quarter, momentum proudly wearing red white and blue with Narre Warren appearing to tire.

When Johnson kicked his third just minutes later to put his side nine points up, many thought a boil-over was set to unfold.

Narre Warren simply don’t do close games; this season’s average winning margin was 74 points for a percentage of 227.5.

Not since the 2022 grand final had a game involving the black and white been this indispute this late, and the Wandin surge was looking irrepressible, having held the Magpies goalless for close to half an hour.

A Jesse Davies goal broke the drought in the seventeenth minute, before the final 10 minutes of drama took hold, in which the Magpies simply found a way, Miller’s goal a checkmate in the epic chess battle showcasing the best of what the division has to offer.

“It comes down to training; we train for it knowing that, in finals, it can happen and they executed really well,” Dwyer said.

“We haven’t kicked a score that low for a while, but that’s finals footy.

“When you’re down and you’ve got to score, it becomes more chaotic and high risk.

“You get it forward and hope something goes your way, which it does.”

West was fantastic for Narre Warren, finishing with three goals, having found a role for himself among the higher profile names such as Will Howe and Jake Richardson, who were rendered ineffective by their Bulldog opponents in Todd Garner and Jones, respectively, for much of the afternoon.

The versatile Peter Gentile was a welcome addition, having been relieved of VFL requirements, while Cameron Miller held Mullett incheck when he was playing deep-forward.

“We didn’t kick the footy very well all day and they got out of our forward line all day pretty well,” Dwyer said.

“We knew they were trying to get over the back and whatnot, and our backs were really good, but we got a break, we might have got 22 points up at one stage, and then we took the foot off.

“They got us on the outside a bit, which we spoke about straight after the game with our midfielders.

“It is something to learn from, we got dragged in a little bit, whereas they had Garner in there and they feed it out to (Patrick) Bruzzese and (Cody) Hirst, and away they go.

“They’re a very good side.

“You can’t afford to have a lapse or anything like that because they’ve got a stacked midfield and forward line, and they’ll hurt you.”

Joel Garner’s and Furey’s influence around stoppage was immense for the Bulldogs, while Black and John Ladner’s drive out of the back half was important all day.

The Magpies’ path to the grand final secure, a hot day awaits at Yarra Junction next week when Wandin tackle Woori Yallock.

Numbers swarm the football in Saturday’s bruising battle between Narre Warren and Wandin. 359431 Picture: GARY SISSONS

Doveton downed in prelim

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Injuries finally proved too much for Doveton to overcome in Division 2 of the Southern Football Netball League.

Reintroducing key players who suffered untimely injuries has been a late season juggling act

On Saturday, one of those players, Jake Basa, was a late exclusion with injury, while Michael Henry, backing up for the third consecutive week, was out of the game by quarter time.

The tough Jake Ingaliso was receiving treatment and visibly sore at the first break and Dylan Bayley exited the game with a shoulder injury midway through the second quarter.

Shaun Semmens was part of the on-ball mix and Mitch Pierce ran hard on the wings, just three games into each of their 2023 campaigns.

Despite the wounds, the Doves still competed well in the first half.

They had more possession, but couldn’t penetrate with deep, dangerous entries

But it was Murrumbeena’s ability to find space and free players on the spread which would have been coach Michael Cardamone’s concern at the first break.

Basa’s absence was hurting and eventually proved insurmountable when rotations also became a prohibiting factor behind the club’s post-stoppage run.

After Murrumbeena slotted the first, Cam Williamson massaged a snap from the boundary line to get the Doves on the board.

Pre-game there was talk that someone would need to kick a bag if Doveton was to kick a winning score.

Williamson was always going to be most likely, and he threatened and delivered.

Wookey medallist Mendis returns to the Lions den

By Marcus Uhe

Former Sri Lankan all-rounder Jeevan Mendis has recommitted to Narre South Cricket Club for another season of DDCA cricket in a blow for opposition clubs.

The 2022-23 Alan Wookey medallist starred in his first season in the DDCA, topping the leading wicket-taker list with 25 at an average of 16, while also finishing as one of the league’s highest run scorers.

With an eye to coaching when his playing days come to a close, Mendis secured an assistant coaching position with Premier Cricket club, Dandenong, but will continue to ply his trade at Strathaird Reserve on Saturdays, while offering his knowledge and expertise to skipper Kyle Hardy and the coaching panel.

Narre South coach Matthew Brooks said he was excited to have Mendis recommit to the Lions as they push to return to the top four.

“He’s got three kids at Narre South, he loves it, which was a big reason why he wanted to stay and play with us, and try to get better opportunities on the coaching front,” Brooks said.

“With two day cricket coming back, I think we’ll see more of how good a player he is.

“Especially with the ball, being able to attack with the two-day format, I think he might be a bit more of a handful, which is obviously a good thing for us.”

As part of a revamped bowling attack featuring former Beaconsfield quick Callan Tout, English import Alex Cruickshank and all-rounder Joel Zietsman, who featured sparingly in last season, Brooks expects Mendis to have more tactical flexibility at the crease this season, particularly in

the longer format.

“I think that weapon we’ve got with him, not bowling the one-day 12 overs, he can bowl bulk overs and we can attack with him this year,” Brooks said.

“We’ve added some quicks around him that we didn’t really have the depth of quick bowling stocks (last year).

“When he was coming on to bowl, he was always having to defend, but this year we’ve added a few where we think we can really attack with him, which is only going to help us, which is a really nice luxury to have.”

The Lions’ season begins at Arch Brown Reserve when they face Berwick on Saturday 7 October.

Several times in the first half when his side needed a spark, Williamson provided energy.

He took a hanger in the second quarter and slotted a goal from 40.

He and Sam Muirhead each finished with small bags of four, but those were the only goal scorers for the Doves, who went down 15.9 99 to 8.9 57.

Murrumbeena was dangerous on transition, Ingaliso’s happy knack of floating in front of his opponent, and Matthew Jameson’s crucial wins on the last line of defence both key.

But eventually the dam wall burst.

After an aggregate of just seven goals in the first half and with the Doves on top by five points at the long break, the Lions responded with seven third-quarter goals.

Will Smith was classy in the midfield all day, but the 31-point three-quarter-time margin proved too much to overcome with the Lions

running hot and too stylish.

Ricky Johnson’s run helped the Doves turn defence into attack off half forward, while James Gascard was also gallant.

But despite those ingredients working well this season, the Doves lacked a clear tall spearhead, putting responsibility on the dynamic Williamson to carry the burden of being the primary scorer.

Fleet foot in the midfield and a tall forward will be the clear target areas under the new coach in 2024, the Doves coming off a narrow grand final defeat in 2022 and the weekend’s preliminary final exit.

With Matt Stapleton, Shannon Henwood, Michael Henry and Will Smith leading an ageing contingent, the Doves will hope emerging players can take strides with their footy next season.

A grand weekend of tennis

By David Nagel

The champions of the Berwick and District Tennis Association have been crowned after a wonderful weekend of action at the Pakenham Regional Tennis Centre.

Rain threatened to put a dampener on Saturday’s grand final matches, but the players patience was rewarded as the skies cleared and all grand finals were completed.

Pakenham took out the prestigious Rod Osborne Shield, while the Section 15 Singles grand final between Beaconsfield and Berwick went all the way down to the wire.

Scores were tied at four sets and 33 games each at the conclusion of the match, meaning a super tie-break was required to decide the winner. Berwick won the tie-break 10-5 to take out the premiership.

GRAND FINALS

SATURDAY

Osborne Shield

Pakenham 2 4:30 v Drouin 1 2:27

Section 1 Rubbers

Officer Red 2 4:30 v Berwick 1 3:33

Section 2 Rubbers

Berwick White 0 2:32 v Cranbourne 2 4:31

Section 3 Rubbers

ClydeWhite 1 2:23 v NarreWarren North 2 4:30

Section 4 Rubbers

Narre Warren South 2 4:25 v Cranbourne Red 0 0:12

Section 5 Rubbers

Cranbourne Black 1 3:32 v Cranbourne Yellow 2 4:34

Section 6 Singles

Berwick White 2:32 v Clyde 6:44

Section 7 Singles

Narre Warren 4:30 v Officer Blue 4:34

Section 8 Singles

Narre Warren 3:24 v Cranbourne 5:34

Section 9 Singles

Officer 3:26 v Clyde 5:37

SUNDAY

Section 10 Singles

Berwick Blue 7:46 v Upper Beaconsfield 1:24

Section 11 Singles

Clyde 6:44 v Narre Warren Green 2:28

Section 12 Singles

Beaconsfield 5:37 v Berwick 3:31

Section 13 Singles

Narre Warren Green 4:38 v Beaconsfield 4:36

Section 14 Singles

Narre Warren Green 6:43 v Narre Warren Gold 2:22

Section 15 Green Ball Singles

Beaconsfield 4:33 v Berwick 4:33

Berwick won the super tie-break 10-5 to take out the premiership.

Section 16 Doubles

Narre Warren 4:30 v Beaconsfield 2:19

Section 17 Doubles

Pakenham 2:21 v Beaconsfield 4:33

Section 18 Doubles

Berwick White 2:24 v Hallam 4:26

ASSOCIATION JUNIOR PENNANT

Open Boys C ERT C1 2 3:39 v BDTA 4 7:56

14C Boys

Peninsula 1 2:16 v BDTA 5 8:59

14C Girls ERT 1 1:13 v BDTA 5 9:59

12B Boys Tennis Geelong 0 1:23 v BDTA 6 9:62

Rob Osborne Shield Premiers, Pakenham, from left; Lachlan O’Gorman, Brayden Raynor and Dylan Pettigrew. 359428 Picture: ROB CAREW

Cameron Williamson gets hang time at the top of 50, his ensuing goal giving the Doves a lift. 359438 Pictures: ROB CAREWMatthew Jameson comes in from behind to spoil Beena spearhead Steve Tolongs.

Jeevan Mendis has recommitted to Narre South Cricket Club for the upcoming DDCA season. 321398 Picture: MARCUS UHE

Now for the main course

By Marcus Uhe

Sein Clearihan joked after his side’s preliminary final win that Emerald and Berwick Springs are now so familiar with one-another that that they could go out for dinner together.

When the final siren rung on the gripping second semi-final between Emerald and Berwick Springs last weekend, spectators walked away wanting more; not even a buffet of fourand-a-half quarters of high-octane, high-scoring football with stars on every line could satisfy even the hungriest of appetites.

Well, in a positive development for those of Bombers or Titans persuasions, grab your plate and make a beeline for your favourite Bain Marie - the football gods are granting the wish.

In the four meetings between the two sides this season, with results split down the middle at two wins apiece, the final margin of the total combined scores is separated by just seven points.

The biggest single margin – 25 points to the Bombers at home in round 10 – only coming after a final quarter surge from Clearihan’s side blew the game apart, having trailed late in the third quarter.

The second – 19 points – was in the most recent bout that required extra time.

In round three, it was on Tom Nelson’s boot after the siren who was unable to capitalise, while round 16’s three-point win saw the Titans storm back from a 36-point deficit and sneak home on a Hayden Stagg wonder kick from outside 50.

Any way you configure it, the stars are aligning for another classic.

David Johnson looks fit again after succumbing to injury in the semi final, ditto Callum White who missed that contest through injury, but both will have his hands full with one of Bailey Delves or Riley Hillman.

The Bombers will need to find a match-up for Stagg, who had his way with the Bombers last week, while Tom Nelson oozes x-factor and has made a name for himself in big moments late in the year.

Clearihan believes his side are underdogs, having made to qualify the hard way rather than skipping the preliminary final queue.

“You’ve got to embrace the week,” he said.

“It’s all done now, it’s up to them.

“Berwick Springs will be ready to go as well,

it’s a grand final.

“You go out there and do your best, and hope for the best.

“We have to keep to our structures, be controlled and composed and hit the scoreboard.”

For Emerald, a flag would frank their credentials as the best side all year, having led from the front from start to finish.

The Titans, however, are chasing history, a first premiership in the club’s short history and the chance to send Rod Benstead out on

a high, having made the decision to step-away from coaching in 2024.

The extra week’s rest is set to give the Titans an edge in the fitness stakes, but Emerald were the best side all year for a reason, and won’t go down without a heck of a fight.

The tip; the rapid rise of the Titans to continue, sneaking home by nine points in another belter.

First bounce: 2.20pm on Sunday 17 September at Don Road Sporting Complex, Healesville.

Benstead steps away but Titans in very good hands

By Marcus Uhe

From classmates, to premiership teammates, to co-coaches; the next evolution in the friendship of Hayden Stagg and Chris Johnson is set to take place at Berwick Springs next season, with the two taking over as the club’s senior coaches in 2024.

Recruited at the end of 2022 with an eye to the long-term future of the club from the committee, the two will replace Rod Benstead next season, who told the club late in the season that he would be stepping down from his current position.

“It’s a job that takes a full-on commitment and I didn’t think I could give it,” Benstead said of his decision, with an eye to spending more time with his young family in 2024.

“I felt really comfortable with Staggy and Johnno, I felt a little bit of guilt that I got them across and then was stepping aside, but when I told them, it dawned that it was a real opportunity for them.

“I’ve said from the start, they’re fantastic leaders in their own right and I’m really happy to be handing over to two fantastic people who I expect will do an amazing job.”

Johnson and Stagg first met at Beaconhills College, before teaming up at the Narre North Foxes in their junior days and later NarreWarren Football Netball Club as adults.

While the two took separate paths beyond their days shared at Kalora Park, the two were reunited as part of a deliberate recruiting approach from the Titans as they strive to forge an identity during the club’s formative years.

Both took on playing assistant roles in their first seasons at Mick Morland Reserve in what was Stagg’s first official coaching capacity, while Johnson’s teaching background gave him an early indication of what the role would entail.

“Coaching is something that I’ve always done and been interested in,” Johnson said.

“As for work, it’s something that I’m really passionate about, seeing players progress, especially the younger talent coming through.

“I was an assistant coach this year at Berwick Springs with ‘Staggy’, and the opportunity came about that Rod was moving on, and we thought that it would be a good challenge and something that we’d both be able to help build at Berwick Springs from our experience, and thought ‘why not?’.

“We have a really strong relationship and when the opportunity came up to coach and co-coach, I didn’t hesitate to share it with Hayden.

“We work really well together and always have.”

Stagg said he was thrilled to take on the role, having viewed coaching as a long-term option for him when his playing days come

to a close.

“It’s been on my mind for a little bit now,” Stagg said of coaching.

“I’ve always wanted to stay involved with footy and coaching is the obvious next step after playing.

“The opportunity bobbed-up at Berwick Springs as an assistant, I didn’t think coaching would pop-up this quick but I thought it would be a great opportunity.

“I think staying a part of the club and everything and learning, you’re always learning the game of footy and teaching all the younger and older boys as well, it’s just great being a part of it all.”

Assisting the two from the sidelines will be the experienced figure of Dean Urwin, father of current Titan Brent and former assistant coach of both Stagg at Johnson at Narre Warren.

With his influence and the two’s experiences at successful programs such as Narre Warren’s, the vision for the club’s progression is clear as day.

“We have the philosophy that we want to be the club everyone wants to come and play for, but no one wants to play,” Johnson said.

“We’re more than likely going up to premier division.

“With Staggy and I’s experience, he’s had a really good career at Narre and I had a strong career at Cora Lynn, we really think that if we can merge our ideas together, not only through training really hard and being competitive, but having fun while doing so, I think we’re going to go quite well.”

But before their tenure can begin, one thing remains on the to-do list for 2023; send “Beanie”, the club’s ‘heart and soul’ out on the best possible note, with a premiership on Sunday.

“I don’t think he gets enough recognition from everyone,” Stagg said of his coach.

“To get the club from where it was to now, he should be so proud of himself.

“He gives you tingles down the spine every time he talks, pregame or during the game.

“The first flag for the club, it’s something that doesn’t happen in a short frame of time.

“It would be the best way as a coach for him to go out.”

Johnson agreed.

“To get that grand final win would not only mean a lot to us, but the club would really pay back all the hard work he’s done,” he said.

“Even through the recruiting process last year when we met ‘Beanie’, he’s a very likeable guy. You can tell he’s the heart and soul of the club.

“That’ll give us a lot of motivation this week.”

Nic Jansen (front) and Riley Hillman will have much more to fight for than just the football on Sunday, with a premiership up for grabs in the Division One grand final. 357897 Picture: ROB CAREW

Hayden Stagg (L) and Chris Johnson (R) will take over from Rod Benstead (centre) as senior coaches at Berwick Springs next season.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Johnson sets the bar high

By Jonty Ralphsmith

A big Ryan Johnson mark and set shot conversion from 40.

A punter could have put their house on that unfolding at some stage of Endeavour Hills’ grand final win over Frankston Dolphins at Carrum Downs Recreation Reserve on Sunday.

Johnson has been a focal point of a strong collective Falcons attack in 2023, kicking 39 goals in 17 games, with his game built off reading the footy and beating his man oneon-one.

That play unfolded early in the first quarter, Johnson having plenty of space to protect the drop zone and use his strength, making a statement to the Dolphins to not give them space to switch and slingshot.

It was a warning sign not heeded

While the best-on-ground did not kick another major, he was involved in plenty of scoring chains and his overhead marking saw him an acceptable choice for best-on-ground.

“I’ve been a key defender my whole life at Knox, until I crossed to Endeavour Hills this year,” Johnson revealed.

“I wanted to go up forward this season, but I like a lot of space to myself and the boys gave me that today.

“I didn’t get on the end of many but I set up a few which is what I looked at.

“It’s making sure we’re not one personcentric and everything stems from that.

“Us as a forward group have a good understanding and are really good at isolating a player who has a hot hand for a 10-minute period.

“We lacked a little bit of run in the first final and generated that which was better for us forwards.”

Johnson was limping around post-game

during the celebrations, with coach Matt Peake revealing he played through soreness.

“Ryan won the medal but his ankle was pretty buggered from pretty early on, so that

Cannons fire parting shot

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Mornington Peninsula’s experience proved too much for Casey Cannons to overcome in a preliminary final at the State Hockey Centre on Sunday.

Despite Casey having much of the play for the first half, it was Mornington Peninsula that was able to seize its opportunity on counterattack.

The stable and senior Mornington Peninsula lineup had slicker polish than a Cannons side in their first season competing at Vic League 1 level.

Casey was able to hit back reasonably quickly via Jess Rowland to go into halftime with the scores locked at 1-1, but the match ebbed Mornington Peninsula’s way after the break.

As she has done all season, goal keeper Sarah Sutton-McLellan was able to stave off several shots on target, with April Picton also fighting valiantly.

But the attack did not have enough opportunity, with Leandra McLauchlan, who dominated the first half, off with a hand injury.

She got Casey’s ball movement flowing and had the game on her team’s terms early, with her exit from the game a clear turning point.

Mornington Peninsula’s Courtney Taylor was able to get off the chain and set her team up from the back, which is what the Cannons knew they had to stop.

The Cannons were left to rue a missed penalty stroke that would have given them the lead against the flow of play, with Mornington Peninsula able to find the back of the net late against a fatiguing defence.

Despite the loss, the season represented a big step forward for the squad, who adapted to the standard increase with aplomb, competing with the top teams for extended periods despite the relative inexperience.

shows the character of the guy,” Peake said.

“He kept pushing through.”

Endeavour Hills best

Sean Van Velsen: The ruck didn’t win the

medal, but he was arguably best-on-ground, dominating the hitouts, tapping to dangerous areas and taking some big marks.

John Rafferty: For a midfielder, Rafferty can take a big grab. Has the power to bust his way out the front of stoppage and allowed the Falcons to turn around their contest work.

Jimmy Archer: Courageous defender who epitomised what the win was built on, willing to put his head over it, and a factor behind the quick Frankston forwards being kept quiet.

Ryan Johnson: Awarded the best on ground medal, he kicked his goal in the first quarter and again marked everything that came his way inside 50. A big finish to a big season, his first as a forward.

Liam Hasler: Had a groundball gather at full pace in the third quarter that was AFL-like. Hit the post with the running shot, but it would have brought the house down. Elegance and work rate both stood out.

Ben Virgona: Kicked one of the best finals goals you’ll ever see on the boundary line in the second quarter, with his weight going away from the goal face. One of half-a-dozen moments where he stood up when he needed to.

Brendan Moldrich: A winger whose run allowed Endeavour Hills to slingshot and play the game on their terms.

Alex Cann: Took some big marks inside 50 and was vocal at the quarter breaks.

Premiership-winning 22: Ben Holland, Tobias Griffin, Liam Hasler, Ricky Boccari, Ben Swift, Ben Virgona, Bailey Baumann, Rohan Scott, Nathan Reid (c), Sean Van Velsen, Jacob Grant, Harrison Malone, John Rafferty, Daniel Cann, Ryan Johnson, Alex Cann, Mitchell Anderson, Travis Hall, Devlyn Hasler, Sam McLean, James Archer, Brendan Moldrich.

Magpies wings clipped as Wandin skips the queue

By Marcus Uhe

A shock defeat of first-placed Narre Warren in Saturday afternoon’s second semi-final saw Wandin book its ticket in the Outer East’s AGrade netball grand final in two weeks’ time.

A seesawing affair saw the Bulldogs reel-in a three-quarter time deficit to defeat the Magpies 53-50 at Officer Recreation Reserve, forcing the Magpies to earn their spot in the decider the hard way.

Narre Warren started slow out of the gate, as it got back into its groove following a week off, trailing 12-15 at quarter time, but quickly found its touch in the second term with a dominant 19-10 quarter for a six-goal lead at the long break.

Wandin clawed its way back in to the contest in the third term to shrink the lead to just four goals, before tightening the clamps in the final quarter with a stellar defensive performance, holding the Magpies to just seven goals while shooting 14 themselves.

It was NarreWarren’s second-lowest scoring quarter of the year, just ahead of the six they managed in a quarter against Beaconsfield in round nine.

But the Wandin defence, led by Maddy George and Ruby Tidd, appear to have solved part of the Narre Warren equation; the Bulldogs held Narre Warren to two of their lowest scores in the campaign, and even got the better of the Magpies at home in one of their few losses this season, which featured an eightgoal quarter.

Narre Warren extracted revenge in the return clash at Kalora Park later in the season, but a 2-1 head-to-head record in Wandin’s favour will give them a mental edge ahead of a potential grand final bout.

The Magpies will play Mt Evelyn in the preliminary final, which took care of business against Beaconsfield in the other semi-final.

The Rovers led at every break in the game, putting their foot down after halftime to break free from the Eagles’ grip in in the 52-35 win.

A five-goal half time lead quickly became nine early in the third quarter as the Rovers nailed five of the first six goals.

Where Mt Evelyn shooters Rory Barr and Kaila Swindell were clinical in their goal circle, Beaconsfield’s were not able to capitalise on their opportunities to the same degree.

28 goals to 16 saw the Rovers cruise home in the second half to set up the clash with Narre Warren, a side they have beaten twice in 2023 including as recently as round 17.

Ryan Johnson busts through a tackle. 359763

Picture: ROB CAREW

Bec Cheater and her Cannons teammates were outdone by Mornington Peninsula on Sunday. 347266

Picture: GARY SISSONS

Wandin goalkeeper Ruby Tidd didn’t give Clare Vearing an inch of space on Saturday. 359430

Picture: GARY SISSONS