News - Cranbourne Star News - 9th November 2023

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Thursday, 9 November, 2023

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Program makes a splash

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SPORT

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Arson suspected in fire

Cans for school Lynbrook resident Esther Keji has been collecting recycling bottles and cans for the past five months with the generous help from the community.

Finally, on 1 November, her pay-off day came as Victoria’s container deposit scheme hit the road.

All the money raised from the bottles she’s collected will go towards a foundation that supports children in Uganda.

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Esther Keji with her bags of recyclables in the backyard.

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Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Numbers game

By Violet Li and Emma Xerri A proposed election reform has floated the idea of more Casey councillors, which advocates say would help manage population growth and mitigate donkey voting.

The State-appointed Electoral Representation Advisory Panel (ERAP) is conducting a review of Casey Council’s electoral structure under the Local Government Act 2020.

The Act stipulates all metropolitan city councils must have single-councillor ward electoral structures. It also requires each ward

must have an approximately equal number of voters per councillor within plus or minus 10 per cent of the average.

Casey Council - which has been governed by administrators rather than councillors since 2020 - currently sits on six wards with a total of 11 councillors. The next councillor elections are scheduled for 2024.

In ERAP’s preliminary report, three models have been proposed for the number of councillors and wards.

Model One and Two use 11 single-councillor wards with different criteria to define the

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boundaries, while Model Three has 12 singlecouncillor wards and adopts mainly road and rail infrastructure as ward boundaries.

Hampton Park resident Garry Page, who stood for council in 2016, has rejected the 11-councillor consideration and endorsed the 12-councillor model in his 34-page submission.

He stated for population reasons alone there should be 12 councillors.

The City of Casey 2019-20 Representation Review Final Report found 12 councillors were required to represent 223,917 voters with an

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average of 18,660 voters per councillor at the time of the writing, though the recommendation was never adopted due to the dismissal of the councillors in 2020.

Now, with 252,670 voters, Mr Page believed downgrading to 11 councillors would represent a step backward with an increase to an average of 22,970 voters.

“Therefore, the current population for the City of Casey should actually be 12 councillors for 252,670 electors or an average of 21,056 electors per councillor,” he stated.

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Armed officers were involved in the siege.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Operation leads to arrest An illustration of a proposed three-storey childcare centre in Power Road, Doveton.

Decision looms on $5m childcare build A proposal for a 125-place childcare centre that would replace three residential properties in Doveton is set to be decided.

With an estimated cost of $5 million, the three-storey building will replace single-storey houses at 40, 42 and 44 Power Road in Doveton.

Noel Johnston, an 89-year-old pensioner who lives behind the proposed site, had spoken out against the project on behalf of his neighbours, with one of their main concerns being the noise.

Residing on Oleander Street, Mr Johnston lives right across from a playground and is not keen on another behind him.

“There are nine units here who don’t want it, we’re mostly pensioners and none of us want it behind us.

“We’ve already got a playground with kids yelling and screaming, now we’re going to have a centre behind us doing the same thing,” Mr Johnston said.

The proponent Smart Planning and Design outlined in its application document that the childcare centre would be an essential service for the local community.

With the ability to cater for a maximum of 125 children until the age of five, it allows parents an alternative from the other centres as well as employment opportunities.

Traffic was the other factor that Mr Johnston said should be considered, saying that Power Road is “one of the busiest roads in the area”.

“They’re going to build a childcare centre essentially in the middle of it, it’s dangerous for the kids coming in and out.”

While the planning application has asssured there would be on-site car parks, it also highlighted the proximity of public transport routes that would reduce car dependency.

Another concern Mr Johnston raised was the difficulty for those without access to computers to lodge a complaint against the planning application.

“They won’t give us copies because they said to just look at the computers, but we haven’t got computers.

“And when we wanted to know more they asked us to come down to the council, but we’ve got walkers and walking sticks, half of us can’t even walk,” Mr Johnston said.

As it stands, the application’s advertising process was completed on 6 November and is currently waiting for the final outcome.

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Officers attended a residence at about 1pm to conduct a welfare check on a man, allegedly in possession of a firearm.

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By Ethan Benedicto

Police arrested a 51-year-old Narre Warren man in Narre Warren South on Friday 3 November, after a dramatic siege operation involving a number of road closures and attendance by Special Operations Group members.

Officers attended a residence at about 1pm to conduct a welfare check on a man, allegedly in possession of a firearm, only to find the man had left prior in a car.

The man was located by police in Berwick Springs Promenade and was arrested at about 3.40pm.

The 51-year-old was conveyed to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries sustained during the arrest.

He was under police guard and was expected to be interviewed by police at a later date.

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Breach ends in jail

By Cam Lucadou-Wells A Pearcedale dad who stashed guns in his bedroom while under a firearm prohibition order has been jailed.

Brett Audsley, 43 at the time, pleaded guilty in the County Court of Victoria to multiple firearms and ammunition charges including insecurely storing the guns.

He also pled to cultivating 13 cannabis plants and possessing illegal fireworks, a dagger weapon and 30 grams of ice for personal use.

During a police search on 3 February, police found a loaded .32 calibre revolver with loose rounds in his bedside drawer and a five-shot revolver in a tall boy drawer.

At the time, he was subject to a 10-year firearm prohibition order from 2020.

Judge Trevor Wraight said Audsley’s heavy drug addiction, access to a loaded gun and his violent history created a “dangerous combination of circumstances”.

Audsley grew up in Springvale in a “tumultuous”, violent and neglectful home, with his father cooking meth for bikie gangs, the court heard.

As a child, Audsley would play with his dad’s handguns and was exposed to criminal activity such as cannabis and stolen vehicles stored at his home, it was noted.

He’d used various drugs since his teens, including becoming addicted to Xanax while recovering from a car crash.

According to a psychologist, Audsley was at a point of his life where he was determined to be drug and crime free. He was also becoming open to discussing his childhood traumas.

He’d reportedly performed well during his previous parole period in 2020.

Judge Wraight noted Audsley’s desire to reform and rated his rehabilitation prospects as “reasonable”.

Judge Trevor Wraight noted Brett Audsley’s desire to reform and rated his rehabilitation prospects as “reasonable”.

Picture: CON CHRONIS/AAP However, a “strong message” also needed to be sent for breaching firearm prohibition orders – which were designed to keep the community safe from gun-related violence.

Audsley’s long, relevant criminal record and

the seriousness of offending were also a factor.

He was jailed for two years and nine months, with an 18-month non-parole period.

His term includes 272 days in pre-sentence detention.

Bill defeat

By Corey Everitt Berwick MP Brad Battin spear-headed a last ditch effort by the opposition to stop the State Government’s decriminalisation of public drunkenness which came into effect this month.

State Parliament returned from a week-long break from sitting on Tuesday 31 October, just a week before the decriminalising public intoxication in Victoria was to take effect. Mr Battin took the small window of opportunity to introduce a bill to repeal the new laws.

As Shadow Minister for Police, Mr Battin has led the opposition’s criticisms against the new decriminalisation, arguing the State Government has not taken the proper preparation to keep people safe from harm when police no longer have the power to take the intoxicated into custody.

The key argument to the urgent attempt to repeal was that the laws would come into effect on Melbourne Cup Day. “Its reform is not ready to go,” Mr Battin said on the motion.

Allowing Mr Battin to introduce this repeal bill after years of debate over the issue was firmly opposed by the State Government. Yan Yean MP Lauren Kathage said: “We have passed the legislation, and now we have got other legislation that we want to get through the house – important matters concerning transport, kinder and the circular economy and our environment, things that matter to Victorians, not things that are invented by a local doomsday cult to panic Victorians.”

Mr Battin’s motion to introduce the repeal bill to Parliament was defeated with 26 members for and 49 members against.

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Push to legalise cannabis

By Matthew Sims Legalise Cannabis Victoria has unveiled a bill to make it lawful for an adult to possess a small quantity of cannabis and regulate personal use.

On Wednesday 1 November, South-Eastern Metropolitan Legalise Cannabis Victoria MP Rachel Payne introduced the Regulation of Personal (Adult Use) of Cannabis Bill in the Legislative Council.

The bill would amend the Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances Act 1981 to make it lawful for an adult to possess a small quantity of cannabis (50 grams) or tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) for personal use, to make it lawful for an adult to use cannabis or tetrahydrocannabinol, to make it lawful for an adult to cultivate not more than six cannabis plants for personal use, and to permit an adult to give cannabis by way of a gift to another adult, and related changes.

The bill would also allow sharing between adults but would not allow people under 18 to access or be supplied with cannabis.

Ms Payne said the bill had the potential to reduce harm and law enforcement and justice system costs.

“We can take multimillion-dollar profits out of the hands of organised crime,” she said.

“We can stop the disproportionate negative impacts on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Victorians and young people.

“We can turn the consequence of stigma on its head.”

According to Legalise Cannabis Victoria, more than one-third of Victorian adults have consumed cannabis in their lifetime, with more young people consuming cannabis than tobacco.

In Casey, in the year to June 2023, there were 986 drug use and possession offences recorded.

In 2015/2016, more than $1.7 billion was

spend on cannabis-related law enforcement, including $1.1 billion on imprisonments, $475 million on police, $62 million on courts, $52 million on legal aid and prosecution and $25 million on community corrections.

Ms Payne said beyond the financial impact, the human cost of a drug conviction could be “devastating” to a young individual.

“Research shows that First Nations people, and others from socially disadvantaged groups, are at greater risk of harm from the criminalisation of cannabis.

“People sourcing cannabis through illicit markets may be exposed to violence and the true ‘gateway’ – the dealers who are giving them access to more dangerous drugs.

“There is a safer way of regulating cannabis, which is why leading economies around the world are moving to legalise cannabis consumption – letting adults be adults and grow and consume cannabis in the privacy of their own homes.”

The move would follow on from similar reforms in the Northern Territory and South Australia, which have decriminalised minor cannabis use and possession and now treat it as a civil matter and the Australian Capital Territory, which has legalised cannabis possession, use and cultivation.

Ms Payne said the move would allow the government to work towards better public health outcomes across the state.

“We already have a cannabis market; it just happens to be illicit and unregulated one that costs governments tens of millions in law enforcement and prohibition,” she said.

“Let’s pull the rug out from under the illicit market.

“Victoria can be a leader in cannabis regulation.”

The Legislative Council agreed to adjourn debate on the bill for two weeks.

David Ettershank and Rachel Payne from Legalise Cannabis Victoria give a press conference after the calculation of Upper House results for the 2022 state election at Melbourne Showgrounds in Melbourne, December 2022.

Picture: AAP IMAGE/LUIS ASCUI

Truckload of Lego found

By Kaitlyn Offer, AAP

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A mountain of Lego found in a Casey drug raid was so large police needed a truck to seize it.

The 1130 boxes worth more than $200,000 were discovered on Tuesday alongside a meth lab and boxes of gemstones at a Botanic Ridge house.

Police said there were so many boxes of the plastic building blocks that a truck would be needed to transport them.

A 36-year-old man and a 32-year-old woman were arrested with the man charged with trafficking, proceeds of crime and firearms offences.

He was also charged with possessing a wi-fi jammer, possessing ecstasy and failing to answer bail.

He appeared at Melbourne Magistrates

Court on Wednesday and was remanded to reappear in February.

The woman was released without charge.

“It’s not unusual for police to seize a range of different items from a property as part of an investigation like this, however this is more often drugs or cash,” Detective Inspector Anthony Vella said.

“This is the first time our detectives have seized a Lego collection - let alone one so large that it requires specific transportation to remove it.”

Det Insp Vella described the lab set-up as large and capable of producing a significant amount of drugs, particularly methamphetamine.

Police will allege the Lego and gemstones are proceeds of crime.

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NEWS

Authorities probe ‘arson’

By Violet Li A fire was detected at the Stevensons Brothers Industries (SBI) landfill in Cranbourne around 10pm Thursday 2 November.

Fire Rescue Victoria brought the fire under control around 12.30am on 3 November with no person harmed.

EPA attended the scene and stated the fire was located at the transfer station, also known as Waste Resource and Recovery Facility, and not the landfill itself.

Police investigations are continuing, while it was advised the cause pointed to arson.

No pollution control equipment was damaged by the fire.

Approximately 40 to 50 tonnes of waste was burnt and smoke odours from the site are likely to be short term.

SBI stated they had contained all solid and liquid waste impacted by the fire and the firewater was collected and disposed offsite by a licensed waste contractor.

SBI is getting approval to dispose of the solid fire impacted waste into the landfill.

The location of the fire within the transfer station has been cleared with all surface residue removed and applied to the contained solid impacted waste, pending appropriate disposal.

SBI intends to provide residents a more comprehensive update in the following week.

EPA will continue their investigation into the incident and ensure SBI manages the remaining water and waste so that there is no impact to community and environment.

In August this year, EPA took legal action against the landfill operator for a range of non-compliance with Victoria’s environment protection laws.

The landfill has been emitting odour since early 2022.

Transfer station fire at SBI landfill. 371172 The odour with a rotting-egg smell was confirmed to be hydrogen sulphide.

EPA will run an online community infor-

11th-12th November 2023

Picture: GARY SISSONS mation session on Monday 13 November between 6pm and 7pm to provide further information on the regulation of the landfill.

For more information on the SBI landfill investigation, visit epa.vic.gov.au/for-community/incidents/sbi-inert-landfill

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Helping others this Christmas

Assistant manager Lauren, swimming teacher Mel, swimming teacher Belinda, life guard coordinator Brittany, and aquatics coordinator Jasmine are Picture: ROB CAREW ready for the upcoming four-week water safety program. 371316

Water safety focus

By Violet Li Casey RACE, the YMCA-managed water recreation and aquatic centre in Cranbourne East, is introducing a four-week water safety program for women in the culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) community with little or no water experience.

Currently, swim teachers in Casey RACE provide education for women and their children every Saturday night with informal teaching which focuses on teaching a basic understanding of water safety behaviours.

Starting on Saturday 11 November, the new program will extend the existing informal sessions into a more structured module, making participants more self-assured in their water

skills and safety awareness.

The curriculum includes important lessons on water safety, the role of a lifeguard, understanding swimming equipment, and maintaining vigilance for children’s safety. Aquatics Program Lead at Casey RACE Lauren Weeding said it is clear there is a need for structured learning beyond just facilitating space for swimming from their observations and interaction on the women-only swim nights.

“I recalled seeing a young girl in the deeper end of the pool trying to float, and I stepped in to teach her the correct way. This made me realise we weren’t just opening a space, we needed to create a safer environment,” she said.

“The goal of this program is to educate women and their families in preparation for a

hot summer. We aim to make the water a safer space for everyone, within Casey RACE and beyond.

“It’s a groundbreaking move, helping to fill the void of adult water safety programs, particularly for cultural groups that are most at risk.”

Casey RACE said they hope to continue building on this program and run this course regularly to empower more women and transform lives by offering valuable water safety skills.

The program will run from Saturday 11 November to Saturday 2 December every Saturday from 8.30pm at Casey RACE, 65 BerwickCranbourne Road, Cranbourne East.

For more information, phone Casey RACE on 5990 8600.

The Cardinia Foundation is launching a Christmas Appeal along with a quick response grant round to help those in need during this holiday season.

The Cardinia Foundation is asking the community to join their Share the Joy Christmas Appeal by donating and fundraising to make sure no local is left behind this year.

By donating to the Cardinia Foundation, you’re supporting a network of charities and community organisations that work tirelessly to improve the lives of others.

Your donation will have a ripple effect, reaching those who need it most, not just during the holidays, but also into the future.

You can either donate directly or by starting your own fundraiser on the foundation’s behalf where you think of your creative ways, from Secret Santas to morning teas, to support the community and spread the holiday spirit.

Supporting the Cardinia Foundation means you support the ongoing work to help those in need in the community.

Along with the appeal, the foundation is giving out Christmas grants which go to local charities to increase the number of hampers, gifts and lunches that will go to Cardinia residents.

Charities working in Cardinia Shire who applied may recieve up to $2000 to help them help others, this Christmas.

Applications closed on Wednesday 1 November, and recipients will be announced at a later date. If you wish to donate or raise funds for the Cardinia Foundation’s Share the Joy Christmas Appeal, you can do so at cardinia-foundation.grassrootz.com/christmas-appeal-2023-share-the-joy

THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN

OPINION

Thumbs up

LENSCAPE

To dads, it was incredible to see the ratio of dads out on Halloween with all their little ones trick or treating.

Thumbs down To the aerial culls of our national heritage horses.

Thumbs down To the big supermarkets having less check out staff and longer queues.

Prices have gone up, yet staff numbers have fallen.

SOCIALLY SPEAKING Golfers will soon tee off again at Deep Creek.

The council has found a new operator for the reserve to bring back Pakenham’s top spot for golfing.

Here’s what our readers had to say.

Every man and his dog was at the cricket at Ramlegh Reserve in Clyde North. 371402 6 STAR NEWS

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Mitzi Ross That’s awesome, will be nice to see things up and running again.

Grant Pitkethly This is great news for Pakenham.

Ryan Bell They will struggle to get golf members again, everyone shipped off to Garfield. cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

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STAR NEWS 7

THE LOWDOWN Q&A

with Star News journalist Violet Li

What do you love about working as a journalist?

Get fresh information through talking with different people. I used to believe everything was already up there online until I got into journalism. I think this is exactly the point of journalism: ask the right questions for people to speak out what they’ve been holding to themselves for ages. Let the unknown known.

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

Cat. So I can ignore people all the time and still be loved.

What would your last meal be?

Fried pork buns with soy bean bubble tea.

What has been your most memorable moment so far?

Picking up my cute dog from the street after dreaming about having my own dog for the past decade.

What was your favourite subject in school?

English literature.

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

I miss sports events all the time. I just wish I could be at every grand slam in New York, Paris, Wimbledon, and of course, Melbourne.

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

It has always been torture for me to have dinner with someone I am not very familiar with. I would just invite five of my friends.

What are you currently listening to/watching or reading?

I just finished A Waiter in Paris by Edward Chisholm. It should be relatable for anyone who once worked in the hospitality. Dejà vu. I am reading Empire of Pain by Patrick Keefe right now. It’s about the notorious Sackler family who sabotaged the lives of nearly 645,000 people. Keefe is always my favourite journalist and I highly recommend all of his works. He’s a

THREE …

Remembrance Day traditions Remembrance Day is this Saturday 11 November . Here are three timehonoured traditions practised by communities across the globe.

Violet Li. 365412

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

master of combining facts and narratives.

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

Well, I’ve never watched Masterchef. Believe it or not.

Where is your dream holiday destination?

Romania. I would love to visit on a yearly basis.

What three words would your friends use to describe you?

Looks forever 19.

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

Encourage my partner or my friends to take a day off on Friday as well so we can hit the road and camp in the mountain for a long weekend.

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Respecting the minute’s silence Every year, communities across the world fall silent for one minute at 11am on the 11th day of the 11th month to remember those who have served their country during war.

2

Wearing a red poppy The Flanders poppy was one of the first plants to grow on the battlefields of France and Belgium. After WWI, silk poppies were sold on Armistice Day with proceeds going to a charity for French children and to the Returned Soldiers League (RSL).

3

Flying flags at half-mast On Remembrance Day, flags are flown at half-mast from 10.30am to 11.03am as a sign of mourning and respect. It is said that this tradition stems from sailing ships which lowered their sails at sea to honour an important person or mark a death. There are a number of rules associated with flying the Australian flag at half-mast, including that flags must never be flown at half-mast at night.

If your game of poker requires a 4th player, we’ll play, even if we lose every hand.

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Finding the missing piece

By Tyler Wright The Emerald RSL is on the hunt for information after the images of three servicemen were left in the organisation’s poppy collection.

RSL member Christine Weller was sorting through the collection in preparation for Remembrance Day when she came across the photos of the men attached to three poppies, with the person who donated them still unknown.

“I looked on the back and I felt sick because it had their names and where they served,” Ms Weller said.

“Beautiful black and white shots of men who went away to war.

“None of them, as far as we know, were killed over there; just the fact that someone had bothered to put them on the back of poppies, and then crocheted them into them and gave them to us.”

Leading Aircraftman P.J Threlfall, Trooper J.H Searle of the eighth Light Horse in the First Australian Imperial Force, and Private LJ Searle from the second Australian Imperial Force are all pictured on the poppies.

Local historians Jan Shaw and Chris A’Vard have discovered that the Searles, believed to be father and son, came from around the Brighton area and later Kangaroo Flat, according to Ms Weller.

L.J. (Leslie Joshua) Searle, who served in the Second World War, was born in Bentleigh in 1922.

Christine Weller is looking for the person who knitted three poppies with the images of three servicemen. 370666 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS He married Wilma Read in 1959, and lived in Kangaroo Flat for most of his life until his death in 2000.

J.H (Joshua Henry) Searle, the father of Leslie, is believed to have been born in 1895 in Moorabbin. Joshua married Beryl Angus in 1921 and the pair lived in and around the Brighton area before moving to Kangaroo Flat. Joshua died in 1974.

Details of the life of the third man - D.K. Threlfall - are still unknown.

Ms Weller is looking for whoever knitted the poppies.

Anyone with information on who knitted the poppies, or the men pictured, can contact Ms Weller via email at christine@cwcreative.com.a

Remembrance Day services will be held across Casey on Saturday 11 November. 371382 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Casey set to Remembrance Day 2023. remember “We will remember them” Remembrance Day services are being held across Casey to commemorate those who have bravely served Australia.

Community members are welcome to attend the services on Saturday 11 November.

The Berwick service will be held from 10.45am to 11.15am at the Berwick Cenotaph at the corner of High Street and Clyde Road in Berwick.

The Cranbourne service will be held from 10.45am to 11.15am at the Cranbourne Cenotaph at Greg Clydesdale Square on High Street in Cranbourne.

The Pearcedale service will run from 10am to 11.30am at the Pearcedale Public Hall at 45 Pearcedale Road in Pearcedale.

Local organisations are managing all public services, with support from Casey Council.

Forever Lost.

Forever Changed.

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Lest We Forget.

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STAR NEWS 9

NEWS

Podcast tackling climate Farmers in the Port Phillip and Western Port Catchment are taking proactive steps to adapt to the challenges posed by climate change.

To promote climate-resilient farming practices, Melbourne Water is teaming up with local farming communities and agriculture experts to launch a new three-part podcast series titled Ag-Resilience.

The Ag-Resilience podcast series hosted

by Sustainable Agriculture facilitator at Melbourne Water Karen Thomas, aims to provide farmers with valuable information and strategies to help them transition towards low emission and biodiversity friendly farming.

Karen Thomas said: “Through these interviews with renowned researchers and awardwinning scientists, the series offers sciencebased insights and practical advice to farmers, bringing them closer to achieving a climatesmart farm by 2050.”

The first episode of the Ag-Resilience podcast delves into the importance of climate-resilient farming practices and the benefits they bring to both farmers and the environment.

Dr Martino Malerba, a respected authority in the field, shares his extensive knowledge and expertise on how farm dam management can help in reducing methane emissions, increasing biodiversity, maintaining water security, and enhancing community wellbeing.

The second episode in the series features Jessica Kelley, a Masters in Ecology student at LaTrobe University.

Jessica is conducting ground-breaking research on the potential for insectivorous birds (species feeding on insects, spiders, and other invertebrates) to provide ecosystem services in pastures.

In her research, Jessica investigates how insectivorous birds can play a crucial role in maintaining the health and resilience of agricultural landscapes.

The final episode of the series wraps up

The new Ag-Resilience podcast aims to tackle farming challenges posed by climate change and promote sustainable agriculture. with a discussion on the long-term vision of achieving a climate-smart farm by 2050.

Listeners will hear from Professor Lindenmayer who will delve into the importance of climate resilient farming practices and the potential benefits they offer.

The Ag-Resilience podcast series aims to raise awareness about the benefits of climate resilient farming practices, foster knowledge sharing, and encourage the adoption of sustainable methods throughout the Port Phillip and Western Port Catchment.

To stay informed and gain access to this

Picture: SUPPLIED

valuable resource, we encourage farmers, and anyone interested in sustainable agriculture to subscribe to the Ag-Resilience podcast on your preferred podcast platform.

Access to the Ag-Resilience knowledge hub for farmers visit yoursay.melbournewater.com. au/ag-resilience

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NEWS

Education honour

Cop desk hours cut

By Violet Li Community development coordinator Zohra Hasib at Hampton Park Community House has been recognised for her inspirational efforts in Victoria’s adult and community education sector at this year’s Learn Local Awards.

The awards recognise Victorians across eight categories, highlighting the achievements of learners, trainers and leaders, as well as programs and partnerships throughout the year.

Zohra has been listed as one of the four finalists in the pre-accredited trainer category.

Migrating to Australia over 30 years ago, she completed her VCE, Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care, Diploma in Community Services Management, and the ACFE Adult Literacy and Numeracy Program.

She said she was extremely thankful that she made it this far and that it wouldn’t have been possible without the support of her awesome team at Hampton Park Community House.

“I absolutely love working in the community and with our awesome community members,” she said.

“I learn so much from my students and am grateful for all the love and respect I get from these amazing humans.

“Watching my students grow makes my heart fill with joy. Seeing the beautiful smiles on their faces when they get an answer correct, learn a new word, a meaning of a new word or write their first sentences always brings a tear to my eye and makes me realise how much I love what I do.”

According to the State Government, Learn Local plays a critical role in Victoria’s post-secondary system, offering a unique communitybased learning option with a focus on the individual needs of learners.

More than 240 not-for-profit community

Community development coordinator Zohra Hasib at Hampton Park Community House has been recognised for her inspirational efforts in Victoria’s adult and community education sector at this year’s Learn Local Awards.

Picture: SUPPLIED organisations are registered as Learn Locals.

The awards prize pool offers a total of $84,000, with organisation award category winners receiving $10,000, individual category winners $5000 and category finalists $1000.

Winners will be announced at the 2023 Learn Local Awards gala ceremony to be held on 24 November.

See the finalists and find out more at vic. gov.au/learn-local-awards

Springvale and Endeavour Hills police station’s opening hours have been cut in a “backwards step for community safety”, according to the State Opposition.

Victoria Police announced that the 24-hour Springvale station’s counter will only open for eight-hours a day from late November.

Endeavour Hills, which in the past was a 24-hour station, will also be open eight hours.

Both stations will still respond “all hours”.

The nearest 24-hour stations include Dandenong, Glen Waverley and Narre Warren.

Victoria Police stated the “off-peak” counter closures across 43 Victorian stations would ensure as many police officers as possible on the frontline.

“Reception counter hour reductions will occur predominantly during the evening or overnight when we know they are rarely attended,” Deputy Commissioner Neil Paterson said.

“Even when reception counters are unstaffed, police continue to patrol the local community and often, still work within the station.

“Redirecting officers towards frontline policing duties will increase the likelihood of crime being prevented, offenders being arrested, and the community remaining safe.”

Opposition police spokesperson Brad Battin said the cuts would result in “poorer community safety outcomes”.

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STAR NEWS 11

NEWS

Bottles to fund new school

By Violet Li Anyone would be awed by the mountains of black plastic bags with thousands of bottles in Esther Keji’s backyard in Lynbrook.

The single mum of two children originally from Uganda started collecting recycling materials like water bottles and cans about five months ago when the State Government announced its container deposit scheme.

Under the scheme, Victorians are rewarded 10 cents for each eligible can, carton, and bottle they return.

Esther has always believed in the importance of looking after the environment and she reckoned it would be a great opportunity to teach the young children how to recycle things.

A quest for bottles set sail.

She reached out to her Lynbrook communities in early stages of events like wedding, parties, and any kind of celebration.

Gradually, the households would collect bottles in their homes and drop bags at Esther’s doorstep.

People would often ask Esther what she was going to do with the money and her answer would constantly be convincing and powerful.

“I run a small charity and all the money I raise from the scheme will be used to build a school in the refugee camps in Uganda to cater for the educational needs of the children,” she said.

“And after hearing these words, at any

Lynbrook resident Esther Keji has been collecting bottles for five months for Victoria’s container container deposit scheme to support her child-focused charity. 370864 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS event, there is always someone who will think of Esther.”

Paulino Loro Foundation is named after Esther’s late husband, a South Sudanese man who migrated to Australia as a refugee in 2001.

As a man who held firm belief in giving back to the community, he intended to establish a foundation to support children in the refugee camps in Uganda, but misfortune hit first in 2016 when he was diagnosed with advanced

Don’t ignore bowel cancer screening kit

By Violet Li Cranbourne resident Peter Sellers has been encouraging Australians aged 50 to 74 to use the free at-home bowel cancer screening kit amid a declining participation rate.

Peter was diagnosed with bowel cancer three years ago with the toolkit and since then, he has joined Cancer Council and the Australian Government’s National Bowel Cancer Screening Programme (NBCSP) awareness campaign.

Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is Australia’s second deadliest cancer and the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer, according to Cancer Council Australia.

The risk of developing bowel cancers increases significantly and progressively from age 50, while the number of Australians under age 50 diagnosed with bowel cancer has been rising steadily.

People may not have any symptoms during the early stages of bowel cancer, which is why Peter said taking the screening kit was very important.

People aged 50 to 74 are sent a pack of toolkit every two years as part of the NBSCP, yet Peter did not use it until age 64.

“I feel good. Why do I have to do all this?” he said.

“Then it just happened. There is no symptom, and there is nothing in the family of bowel cancer.

“When I had my data and my results back, all my friends who are at my age got the testing done straight away.”

Peter believed the earlier you test yourself, the better.

He was in stage 2 when he was diagnosed and all he had was a five-hour surgery.

The recovery took about eight to 10 weeks as the operation wasn’t invasive to his body.

As stated by Bowel Cancer Australia, almost 99 per cent of bowel cancer cases can be treated successfully when detected early.

Peter felt compelled to promote the awareness after he read on the news that fewer and fewer people are getting the test done.

“I wouldn’t be here today if it if I didn’t do it,” he said.

Each year, the Australian Government offers free screening kits to more than six million Australians through the NBCSP. Australian Institute of Health and Welfare found that in 2020-2021, around 40 per cent of people aged 50 to 74 who were invited to screen participated.

In Victoria, about 44 per cent of the eligible 12 STAR NEWS

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pancreatic cancer and passed away not long after.

His family decided to make the foundation his legacy to support vulnerable and disadvantaged children in Northern Uganda refugee camps and host communities, East Africa, and locally in Australia in general.

“We have the foundation choir every Friday in Lynbrook Community Centre and they perform in events in Lynbrook and its neighbourhood,” Esther said as the chief executive officer.

“When we raise money, we also support Cancer Council Victoria because I lost my husband through cancer, and I know what many families are going through.

“Some are still fighting to the end. And we always look to a hope that one day they might have a cure for cancer.”

Paulino Loro Foundation is now supporting 55 children in different schools with more on the waiting list.

Esther said six dollars could feed a child in Africa for a month.

“So if I sell those bottles, I may get around $200 and it will be enough to feed more children for months,” she said.

“I just want to thank my communities for donating these bottles to support our charity.”

She is planning to go to Uganda in January next year to make sure the construction of the school is going well.

Where to deposit your cans Keen recycling enthusiasts can now reap the benefits, with Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) now officially open.

Eligible drink containers can now be exchanged for 10 cents each across hundreds of refund points across the state.

By August 2024, the network is estimated to grow to more than 600 refund points.

Local refund points include: Berwick Springs Hotel; Casey Central Narre Warren South; Thompson Parkway Shopping Centre Cranbourne North; Paint Place Cranbourne; Woolworths Cranbourne West; Cranbourne South General Store; Langwarrin South General Store; Warneet General Store; and BP Doveton.

Reverse vending machines, depots, over-the-counter sites, and pop-up refund points will be the four ways people can return their eligible containers – and depending on the type of refund point, people can choose whether they want to receive the refund in the form of cash, a retail voucher, or an electronic refund.

Victorians can also choose to donate their refund to a charity or community organisation registered with the scheme.

Eligible containers include non-concentrated fruit or vegetable juice, flavoured milk, beer, soft drink and mixed spirits.

Ineligible containers for refund include glass wine bottles, glass spirit bottles, juice bottles over one litre, cordial bottles, milk (other than flavoured milk), concentrated fruit or vegetable juice and health tonics.

In the South East, company Return-It will run the refund points such as depots, reverse vending machines or participating shops.

For more information on the CDS, visit cdsvic.org.au.

· · · · · · · · ·

Cranbourne resident Peter Sellers has been encouraging Australians aged 50 to 74 to use the Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS free at-home bowel cancer screening kit. 371029 aged 50 to 74 took part in the program, a decrease from 46.5 per cent in 2019-2020.

Health Minister Mark Butler said raising the participation rate to 60 per cent would save 84,000 lives by 2040.

“Please put the test somewhere visible like the bathroom as a reminder. Doing the test as soon as you get it could save your life,” he said.

Cancer Council Australia chief executive officer Professor Tanya Buchanan said they wanted Australians to continue to enjoy life to the fullest after they turn 50.

“Staying on top of preventative health

Thursday, 9 November, 2023

screening, including bowel screening, is one of the best ways to be able to enjoy the special milestone moments life has to offer,” she said.

Peter travelled to Bali and America with his families after the recovery and the Covid.

Up til this day, he still insists he has been one of the lucky people who survived the bowel cancer without hurting too much.

“If you forget to check, do the testing,” he said.

“It saves your life.”

For more information on NBCSP, visit cancer.org.au/bowelscreening

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STAR NEWS 13

NEWS

Using her voice for change

By Eleanor Wilson When Berwick children’s author Michelle Write found out her book My Happy Sad Mummy had won the Australian Association of Family Therapy Twenty-ninth Annual Awards, she could only celebrate from her hospital bed at a South-East psychiatric hospital.

It was 2016, and Ms Write, who was diagnosed with bipolar disorder a decade prior, was experiencing a dip in her mental health.

The book itself, which chronicles the tale of a mother’s experience with bi-polar disorder, has strong ties to Ms Write’s experience with mental health.

“When I first got diagnosed, my kids were about six and three,” she said.

“We were really into picture books, we used to read them all the time and it was a great love for us, but I noticed there wasn’t anything appropriate for mental health.

“So I decided to write my own and that’s how My Happy Sad Mummy came about.”

Ms Write has published over a dozen children’s books over the last few decades, including Together Things, about a father and daughter’s experience with depression.

“It’s an easy way to explain that, if a parent isn’t up to doing some of those more challenging, active activities when they’re feeling down, they can still have a bond and they can still do things together, but in a different way.

“It’s just an understanding of what is happening to their parent, and to know that it’s not their fault and that they are still loved.“ It is not a coincidence that many of Ms Write’s books centre on mental health - a topic she tried desperately to find in children’s literature to help explain her illness to her own children.

“A lot of parents think that if you talk about mental health to children they will be scared and panic, yet research shows it’s the total opposite, that if you don’t talk about it they start to internalise it, they start to think it’s their fault.

“So it’s really important to talk about any tough subject, it doesn’t have to be mental health.

“I often can’t find what I’m looking for so I

Berwick children’s author Michelle Write with her books Together Things and My Happy Sad Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS Mummy. 368439

Michelle at home with her golden retriever Bella. 368439

end up writing it and that’s the way I’ve gone with a lot of my projects.“ Yet, it took her many years to realise the power and gravity her written words held in the literary community.

“Not everyone is in a position to be able to use their voice, for whatever reason.

“I write and I think the written word really is my best asset.”

A few years ago, Ms Write decided to stretch her advocacy and education for mental health further and became a mental health consumer consultant, working for families where a parent has mental illness.

She is also an active member of the Victorian Mental Illness Awareness Council (VMIAC), participating in forums to drive systemic

recognised that the current mental health system is not equipped to handle mental health emergencies.

It is in the process of delivering a 10-year timeline of changes to better support the system.

Ms Write’s biggest goal is to achieve a reduction in compulsory treatment and restraint for mental health patients, something she hopes can be achieved through the state’s mental health reforms.

“It’s a system of abuse and [patients] are just re-traumatised over and over.

“That’s what happened to me and I’m just one of thousands, which is why I’m trying to advocate for real change.”

change in the public mental health sector.

It is undoubtedly a passion point for Ms Write, and one that has unfortunately been driven by alleged mistreatment within the public mental health system.

“People in the mental health system, in Victoria in particular, are at the mercy of legislation that allows these things to happen.

“It is a very very threatening, horrible environment to be in.

“I’ve been shackled to beds, put in seclusion, physically and chemically restrained.”

The Victorian Government is currently undertaking an overhaul of the mental health system following 65 recommendations from the Royal Commission into Mental Health.

In its final report, released in March 2021,

Final lights switched on along O’Shea Road

By Matthew Sims Major Road Projects Victoria (MRPV) have completed the end of works along O’Shea Road as part of Stage 2 of the Monash Freeway upgrade, with the last sets of permanent street lighting now turned on after months of work.

An MRPV spokesperson said the streetlights had now been turned on along O’Shea Road, replacing temporary lighting which was in place at intersections along O’Shea Road, ensuring better visibility and safety for all road users.

“A final road safety audit was conducted in mid-October after the permanent streetlights were turned on and prior to the speed limit returning to 80km/hr,” the spokesperson said.

According to MRPV, all traffic lights have been powered and operational since the new lanes on O’Shea Road were opened to traffic in August 2022.

Multiple independent road safety audits have been undertaken on this stretch of road since it opened in August 2022 with no safety concerns raised.

The final independent road safety audit was completed in mid-October when the lighting was commissioned, with no safety issues identified.

In response to community feedback, MRPV installed additional landscaping to prevent vehicles turning across the centre median.

On multiple occasions the project team has passed on feedback to Victoria Police from residents about speeding drivers.

New and upgraded lanes along O’Shea Road were opened to traffic on time in August 2022.

14 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 9 November, 2023

Berwick MP Brad Battin has called for the State Government to clarify the information they have received in relation to safety issues on the road.

Picture: SUPPLIED Berwick MP Brad Battin addressed a question to Roads and Road Safety Minister Melissa Horne about the issue in Parliament on Wednesday 4 October, highlighting the two deaths which occurred on the road earlier this year.

“We have had issues with speed, lighting and traffic lights on this road since the upgrade has occurred,” he said.

“Minister, I ask if we can take the politics out of this, please, and get the information that you have received in relation to safety issues on this road that could have prevented two deaths of people in my electorate.

“It is time that the Berwick electorate got the truth on what is happening on O’Shea Road.”

A number of comments from Berwick mo-

torists and locals on Facebook highlighted safety issues, including comments of people running through red lights.

“Too many people ignore the red lights, I travel through there everyday and I always have to wait for the red light runners,” one user said.

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Thursday, 9 November, 2023

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STAR NEWS 15

NEWS

Garfield back home After missing for six and a half months, a cat named Garfield was finally returned to his home in Doveton.

The cat was found in Hallam, roughly five kilometres from the owner, Neil’s home.

According to Neil, the man who found the cat scanned Garfield with a chip scanner, and after finding out he belonged to someone, contacted the local vet immediately.

After Garfield initially went missing on 29 April, Neil said he and his family “checked animal shelters and put up about 200 flyers around the streets”.

However, there was no sign of the cat.

“I came home from work and I couldn’t find him, and I kept looking the next few days and I still couldn’t find him,

“We put these pamphlets out and we even door knocked a bit.”

The five-year-old cat was nursed by Neil and his family ever since he was a kitten, and throughout those years built the foundations of a strong familial connection.

When Garfield was finally retrieved, it was a big sigh of relief.

“I was excited, thankful, I Prayed to God that we’d find him and we did,” Neil said.

It was even more meaningful for his children, who had come to accept Garfield’s passing.

“They just said that he’s died and we won’t see him again, they loved that cat and were very excited when we found him.”

As it stands, some new security measures

have been employed since the cat’s return.

While Garfield was free to roam the home, inside and out, a stricter curfew has been employed.

“I normally work three to ten and let him in when I get back from work.

“Now we let him out for only a couple of hours and make sure to bring him in before I leave,” Neil commented.

Garfield had no injuries, with Neil assuming that he probably went on an extended vacation, sightseeing from house to house and place to place.

Neil and his cat, Garfield. 370699 Picture: GARY SISSONS

Fresh facade for Men’s Shed: Members forge new sign The Akoonah Park Men’s Shed has received a facelift, with members working together to forge a new metal sign.

Member Ian McKenzie said a number of steps went into constructing the new sign.

“The committee made a decision to replace the original timber sign with a metal one, prompted by the timber sign’s constant need for cleaning and repainting,” he said.

“The metalwork team was entrusted with the task of designing a replacement, and their proposed design was swiftly approved.

“The blacksmiths purchased the necessary smaller sections and meticulously cut the letter pieces in straight lines.”

Mr McKenzie said blacksmiths John Luppino, Adam Sibert, and Keith Towe then forged the letters ‘O,’ ‘P,’ ‘R,’ ‘S,’ and ‘N,’ while also preparing the frame for welding.

“Jim Grills successfully located and acquired the required 4 by 2.5-metre lengths for the frame, and the components were expertly arranged for the welding process,” he said.

“Noel Phelan played a pivotal role in ensuring the welding was executed seamlessly.

“Once the fabrication was finished, the sign was positioned outdoors, and the welds were carefully cleaned to perfection.”

Mr McKenzie said the most challenging part of the project was fitting the sign onto the wall, using the existing anchor points within the corrugated metal wall.

“To accomplish this, John and Keith handforged six brackets designed to secure the sign in place while also creating a gap between the sign and the wall,” he said.

“The brackets were affixed to the wall, and a small team assisted in holding the sign in position while John executed tack welding to secure it.

The new sign is up, with members Jan Harris, Chris Creedy, Richard Scholten, John Marshall, Maurice Hall, Keith Towe, Phil Phelan and John Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS Luppino among those who helped forge it. 369446

The members start putting the sign up. 369446

John Luppino blacksmithing. 369446

Many hands made for light work. 369446

“The sign was later removed for a comprehensive welding of the brackets, ensuring its sturdiness and durability.”

The final phase involved applying a weather-resistant surface coating to safe-

guard the sign against the elements, carried out by painter Norm Hoskings.

Akoonah Park Men’s Shed caters to all types of men and has a plethora of clubs and hobbies, including fishing, caravanning,

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For more information, contact Doug Hutchinson on 0409 235 547.

Numbers game: Electoral structure review sparks debate From page 1 “It was disappointing to see with an even higher Casey population that the ERAP has chosen to now examine a reduction to 11 councillors.

“The current population of Casey is 365,239 with a forecast growth of 2.8 per cent annually.

Given this growth, the workload of councillors can only increase over the life of the council.”

IBAC’s Operation Sandon Special Report identified councillors’ lack of preparedness for Casey meetings.

The submission also pointed out that an appropriate number of 12 councillors could moderate the impact of donkey voting on the council election results.

Donkey voting refers to the act of numbering the candidates in the order they appear on the ballot paper. It can also happen in reverse.

According to an academic’s statistical analysis of Victorian local government elections from 2008 to 2021, candidates at the number one position would have 45 per cent more chances of being elected than would be otherwise expected in fields of five or more candidates, Mr Page submitted.

The impact of donkey voting would become 16 STAR NEWS

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Steve Beardon is arguing for measures to tackle donkey voting at the next Casey Council election. more pronounced with a larger number of candidates.

The submitted statistics further highlighted that for elections with 10 or more candidates, those at the first position would be 80 per cent more likely to be elected than those randomly selected in the sixth spot.

This meant fewer electors were needed to successfully elect the first candidate compared to electors who preferred the sixth position can-

Thursday, 9 November, 2023

didate, which according to Mr Page, shredded the one vote, one value principle that made sure every person’s vote counts equally.

He stated therefore increasing the number of wards had the effect of distributing candidates across a wider scale.

“This change on average reduces the field [number] of candidates standing in a single ward at a general election. Reducing the candidate fields [numbers] on average has the positive impact of lowering donkey votes.

“Increasing the number of councillors for 2024 to reduce the impact of a donkey vote provides a direct benefit to achieving a result closer to the one vote, one value principle.”

The statistics analysis in the submission has not yet been reviewed by the Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC).

Mr Page said he had raised the donkey voting issue to the government before, but with no result.

He expected a similar limited response for this time.

“If the VEC does not accept my calculations and an academic hasn’t published a paper on this donkey voting issue, then there will be no response in parliament to my submissions,” he said.

Former Casey councillor Steve Beardon agreed with Mr Page in regard to the undermining of one vote, one value principle.

Rather than expressing support for any of the models provided in his submission, he proposed improved methods for ensuring fairness across voting.

“Council ballot papers need be printed randomly to ensure no individual candidate benefits by drawing the top spot,” he wrote.

“Currently they are all printed identically.

“This gives one candidate the significant advantage of the donkey vote. That scenario is contrary to fair and equal elections.”

Mr Page submitted Victoria should employ the Robson Rotation system used in the ACT and Tasmania where each ballot paper contains a different permutation of candidates to minimise the impact of donkey voting.

The City of Casey Council Electoral Structure Review is accepting submissions until 5pm 22 November.

A public hearing will be held following the response submission period for submitters who request to speak.

To make a submission, visit submissions. vec.vic.gov.au/council/544 cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Respecting youth voices Casey Council will host a free community event on Wednesday 6 December from 4.30pm to 6.30pm at Bunjil Place, in partnership with Feifei Curiosity and Respect Victoria to recognise its commitment to gender equality and family violence prevention.

The Respecting Youth Voices to Enable Change event will support the United Nations’ 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, which runs from 25 November to 10 December.

It will showcase 15 of Casey’s diverse multicultural and multilingual youth and what respect means to them through dance, photography and poetry.

Over recent months, participants took part in three workshops that explored council’s strategic objectives A Safe and Equal Casey: A Gender Equality and Prevention of Violence Against Women Strategic Plan 2022-2032.

Held at Lynbrook Community Centre, council was able to capture how the participants explore various art forms to express respect, self-identity, gender diversity and celebrate different cultures, as well as helping them to build positive, equal and respectful relationships.

City of Casey chair of administrators Noelene Duff PSM said the community showcase was an opportunity for community members to support and celebrate the creative and artistic expression of the city’s youth.

“Coming together from different cultures, races and genders, the showcase will inspire us to draw on, learn, accept, and embrace diverse lived experiences and connect through relatable stories to create a welcoming space for learning, growth, and respect,” she said.

“Council looks forward to showcasing the performances of Casey’s youth and displaying their creations, and welcome local community members to attend.”

Bookings for this free event are essential by Friday 1 December. To book, visit trybooking. com/events/landing/1120820

City of Casey chair of administrators Noelene Duff PSM said the community showcase was an opportunity for community members to support and celebrate the creative and artistic expression of the city’s youth.

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of November.

Lifeblood donor experience executive director Cath Stone said Lifeblood is thrilled to be working with Movember to achieve a common goal.

“We know that one in three men will need blood in their lifetime, but only one in 30 donates, which is too low,” she said.

“In particular, young men under 30 are 35 per cent less likely to become blood donors than females of the same age, so this Movember we need more men to have a conversation, donate blood or plasma and support men’s health.

“Giving blood and plasma regularly is also a great way to get to know your own health while saving a life, with heart rate and blood pressure checks taken at each appointment.”

To book a donation, visit lifeblood.com. au, use the Donate Blood app or phone 13 14 95.

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Rex name shame

By Mitchell Clarke Almost one year since alleged corruption was exposed within the City of Casey, a former councillor is still fighting to clear his name.

Former Springfield Ward councillor Rex Flannery, who resigned as deputy mayor just days before the State Government sensationally sacked the entire council in February 2020, says the events of the past 12 months are still “eating” him up.

He has now officially requested that his name is removed from both a councillor honour board in the customer service centre and a wall plaque in Bunjil Place.

“I have never had any involvement into this alleged corruption scandal and therefore I do not wish to have my name associated with past or former councillors who may have brought our City of Casey into disrepute,” he told Star News.

“People look at your name and they see that you’re from Casey Council and immediately they put you in that same mould, which couldn’t be further than the truth.

“It’s just horrible to have been a councillor in that term. It gives you a sickening feeling in your gut and now I have to live with that.“ Mr Flannery argues his name should never have been placed on the plaque celebrating the $126 million Bunjil development because at the time he didn’t support the project.

“I guess I’ve eaten a little bit of humble pie with Bunjil Place. I’ve been able to see the value that place brings to the community but at the time I was against the development and I wasn’t once consulted (about having my name included),” he said.

He also claims former ex-ward partner, Sam Aziz, stated to him that he “wished he never had my name added to the plaque”.

“That was the only time I agreed with him,” Mr Flannery said.

While Mr Flannery hasn’t accused any former councillor of committing wrongdoing, he said anyone found guilty from the IBAC hearing should immediately have their honours stripped.

“They need to have their plaques removed

Rex name shame

By Mitchell Clarke Almost one year since alleged corruption was exposed within the City of Casey, a former councillor is still fighting to clear his name.

Rex Flannery, pictured in late 2015, wants his name stripped from council. 148005 from anywhere within the City of Casey ... whether it’s a plaque in the botanical gardens or in Bunjil Place, I want them removed so they have absolutely no recognition anymore,” he said.

“They’ve disgraced themselves and they’ve disgraced the council. They’ve taken something away from me that I totally enjoyed. I loved serving the Casey community. I just want some clarity as to what way it’s going to go.”

Since his resignation, Mr Flannery has been working in an operating theatre at a local hospital. He said he has every intention to run for council again in 2024.

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

“I want to get back into serving the community again. I want to run again and I want to get my name back on the honour board for the right reasons. At the moment it’s a dishonour board,” he said.

Star News understands Mr Flannery has put forward his request to be heard by the administrators at the next council meeting, slated for Tuesday 2 February.“It’s up to them now but a year later, this is still eating at me. I need closure and this is one way that I can get it,“ he said.

“I played no part in any downturn or sacking of the council and I feel it’s my duty to say that I don’t want to be a part of or in any way

Bunjil Place. associated with the 2016-20 term.”

Casey’s governance manager Rhys Matulis said: “Given the IBAC investigation, it would be inappropriate to comment on that matter. Council has received and will consider Mr Flannery’s request in due course.”

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According to Red Cross Lifeblood, one in three people in Narre Warren North will need blood during their lives.

Australian Red Cross Lifeblood is also uniting with global men’s health charity Movember this month to inspire millions of men across the country to donate blood or plasma.

Women outnumber men as blood and plasma donors in Australia despite the fact men are more likely to be eligible to donate and make a successful donation.

To even the score, artist Travis Garone, who co-founded the Movember charity back in 2003 to help save men’s lives, has designed a limited-edition bandage that will be rolled onto the arms of blood and plasma donors throughout the month

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STAR NEWS 17

NEWS

Festival lights up Berwick More than 10,000 people enjoyed a spectacular display of fireworks, live entertainment and rides as part of Diwali Festival celebrations in Berwick on Sunday 5 November.

Organised by The Bright Events and held at Federation University’s Berwick campus, the festival also included kids entertainment and a variety of food stalls and market stalls.

Otherwise known as Dipawali or the Festival of Lights, Diwali is India’s biggest and most important holiday of the year and important to all Hindus.

The festival gets its name from the row (avali) of clay lamps (deepa) that Indians light outside their homes to symbolise the inner light which protects them from spiritual darkness.

More than 10,000 people attended the festival.

Picture: BJ PHOTOGRAPHY

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Name and contact details of submitters are required for council to consider submissions and to notify such persons of the opportunity to attend council meetings and any public hearing held to consider submissions.

The closing date for submissions is 17 November 2023. A submission must be sent to: • City of Casey Team Leader Strategic Planning and Reform Amendment C284case PO Box 1000 Narre Warren VIC 3805 • or by email to: planningscheme@casey.vic.gov.au • or via the City of Casey website: http://conversations.casey.vic.gov.au/c284case

If you wish to learn more about the amendment, Council officers are hosting two informational drop-in sessions which are available for the public to attend:

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Any person who may be affected by the amendment may make a submission to the planning authority about the amendment. Submissions must be made in writing giving the submitter’s name and contact address, clearly stating the grounds on which the amendment is supported or opposed and indicating what changes (if any) the submitter wishes to make.

The planning authority must make a copy of every submission available at its office and/or on its website for any person to inspect free of charge for two months after the amendment comes into operation or lapses.

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The amendment proposes to replace the Municipal Strategic Statement at Clause 21 and Local Planning Policies at Clause 22 of the Casey Planning Scheme with a Municipal Planning Strategy at Clause 02. The amendment also introduces new local policies within the Planning Policy Framework at Clauses 11 to 19.

The amendment is required to ensure that the Casey Planning Scheme reflects adopted Council strategies and to make the Planning Scheme consistent with the new structure of planning schemes introduced by Amendment VC148 in 2018.

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STAR NEWS 19

WHAT’S ON Casey Cardinia Life Activities Club

·

Coastal Colours Art Exhibition The Coastal Villages Art Group invites you to attend their annual art exhibition, Coastal Colour.

Local artists will be showcasing their various talents and original artwork will be available for purchase.

Artwork for sale includes pastels, acrylic, paintings, sketches, water colour, photography, mixed media and textile art.

Venue: Warneet Motor Yacht Club, 21 Rutherford Pde, Warneet.

Official opening: $10 entry Friday 10 November 7pm – 10pm (includes finger food, one beer/wine, or soft drink, and raffle entry).

Exhibition: Free entry Saturday 11 November 10am – 4pm. If you have any questions, contact Helen Clow 0419 389 753 or Sanda Cox 0400 648 915.

·

Cranbourne U3A Cranbourne U3A has commenced Term 4 with lots of fun activities planned for its members.

The club recently had a busy Open Day and have welcomed some new friends to its Tai Chi and Art classes.

New members are welcome to come along from 10am to 2.30pm on weekdays for lots of fun

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

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

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

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

· Picture: S L ON UNSPLASH

and laughter.

Classes in calligraphy, art, chess, sewing, knitting and card making are also running.

Members and tutors will be available to show attendees through the rooms and assist you.

Light refreshments, tea and coffee will be served.

Cranbourne U3A’s rooms are in the admin building of the Cranbourne Library, entering from the Casey Radio entrance.

·

Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre

·

Seated Movement Sessions (Chair Dancing) Would you enjoy exercising from the comfort of your chair?

V

Public Notices and Event

Public Notice - Chief Executive Officer Reappointment In accordance with section 94(4) of the Local Government Act 1989 (Victoria), notice is hereby given that the Board of CaseyCardinia Library Corporation (“Library Corporation”) trading as Connected Libraries intends, at its next Board meeting to be held on Tuesday 28 November 2023 commencing at 4.00pm, to pass a resolution which would result in the reappointment of Elspeth Luppino as the Chief Executive Officer of the Library Corporation for a 3-year contract effective 1 January 2024, without the position being advertised. For any enquiries, please contact Janine Galvin, General Manager Organisational Development, by email at janine.galvin@connectedlibraries.org.au or by mobile on 0409 230 264.

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Thursday, 9 November, 2023

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The club currently supports seven students of varying ages with their education expenses and are about to take on an eighth student.

Throughout the year, the club has a couple of special fundraisers, as well as casual morning tea and lunch for interested ladies.

The club is always looking for new members in all age groups.

For more information, contact Shirley on 0419 878 481 or email berwicksprings.viewclub@ gmail.com The club meets on the first Monday of each month in the Berwick Springs Hotel function room from 11.30am, where members enjoy a lunch and then host a guest speaker.

·

Tom Gleeson’s Gear Hard Quiz Overlord, Master of Tasks and Gold Logie Winner Tom Gleeson has taken the Brass Mug on the road for the past two years with Hard Quiz Live.

Now he’s giving audiences around the country an opportunity to see a master stand-up at work with his new live show Gear.

Thursday 7 December 2023 from 7.30pm at Bunjil Place. Tickets from $54.90. For more information and tickets, visit cmdy.live/ GLE23NarreWarren

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Do you enjoy craft making?

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Casual attendance is welcome.

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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.

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Join the Berwick Activities Group for some seated movement sessions including fun and uplifting songs and different styles and eras of music. An opportunity to get moving and enjoy the company of others.

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Are you newly retired or new to the area or just 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 enjoy an afternoon tea.

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.

The club is also hosting a formal Christmas lunch on Tuesday 5 December at Dandenong Club. Come along and get to know us by visiting us on a Thursday at 2pm at Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House or join us on a Wednesday at 10 am for a Coffee at Little Sparrow Fountaingate.

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

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SPORT

A cup day to never forget

By David Nagel The famous ‘three-handle loving cup’ will not be returning to Cranbourne this year but it hasn’t stopped local trainers from having a huge impact across the first two days of the four-day Melbourne Cup Carnival.

Gold Trip, last year’s Melbourne Cup winner for Cranbourne trainers Ciaron Maher and David Eustace, finished 17th in the great race as he struggled to combat the much-firmer conditions.

Stablemates Ashrun and Interpretation flew the flag for Cranbourne this year, with the Maher/Eustace combination finishing fourth and sixth respectively.

But Cranbourne trainers would have a huge say on the biggest day of the Australian racing calendar…training exactly half of the winners on the 10-race card.

The training team of Trent Busuttin and Natlie Young got things rolling early, when Forgot You broke a long run of outs in race two.

Warmonger then won for Mick Price and Michael Kent Jnr in race three, before The Maggstar gave Tetyana Furdetska her biggest thrill in racing in race six.

The Te Akau team – recent additions to Cranbourne and spearheaded by Mark Walker – then scored with Skew Wiff in race nine, before the Busuttin/Young camp finished off a great day for the stable by securing a winning double in the last.

A despised outsider for punters; five-yearold gelding Pascero was back to his enigmatic best, bursting clear late to win the $150,000 Paramount+ Trophy (1400m).

Beginning from the widest gate, 16, Pascero was snagged back by jockey John Allen and given an economical run at the back of the field.

Allen was blocked for a run until the 200, but found a gap as the field kicked past the clock-tower to give Pascero the fifth win from his 20 career starts.

Young was thrilled after the race; knowing the $50 outsider was primed to outperform his lucrative odds.

“He galloped on Saturday morning and I was like ‘Oh my god’, because he galloped like that before he won at Rosehill,” Young said excitedly post-race.

“He just puts one in every now and then.

“You’ve got to be watching; you can’t be sleeping or napping, or sitting in the office… sometimes you just see that gallop and think he can win.

“Everyone I saw today, I said ‘I think he’s our best after Forgot You’, and it paid off.”

Young said some simple time in the paddock had helped bring the gelding back to his brilliant best.

“Last start when he raced, he just looked a bit dry in the coat, so we got him back out on the grass for two weeks,” Young explained.

“Basically, he’s had three gallops since he came back, and he’s just had that electric turn

Natalie Young, training partner with Trent Busuttin at Cranbourne, is all smiles after a winning double on cup day at Flemington. 372162 Picture: REG RYAN/RACING PHOTOS

Blake Shinn drives Forgot You to victory in race two at Flemington on Picture: PAT SCALA/RACING PHOTOS Tuesday. 372162 of foot again today.

“And Johnny Allen; barrier 16 today, he just put him in a spot, went to go to the rail, came out, he’s a great jockey…I love Johnny.

“He just rides a peach every time.”

Young said a loyal ownership group was ev-

John Allen gains a saloon passage to win the last race on cup day on the Busuttin/Young trained Pascero. 372162 Picture: GEORGE SAL/RACING PHOTOS

ery chance of partying hard.

“First Light Racing, they’ve been a massive supporter of ours, and they’re going to go nuts out there later tonight,” she said with a beaming smile.

“There’s a big crew of them, and that’s what it’s all about right, having a win on cup day;

not having a runner in the cup, but getting a double, it’s just the same.”

The Busuttin/Young team will be hoping their winning form continues when Everlasting Kiss represents the stable in Thursday’s $1m Group 1 Kennedy Oaks (2500m).

Diwell delivers on Premier Cricket debut

By Jonty Ralphsmith Cardinia Cricket Club all-rounder Brooklyn Diwell made her First XI debut for Dandenong on the weekend.

The 17-year-old has been an intimidating figure for the Bulls with her stump-to-stump bowling for several years, prior to her arrival on the Premier Cricket scene this season.

Diwell’s first month of the season was unceremonious, bowling 14 overs across four matches, taking just one wicket at an economy rate of 4.3.

But on Sunday, her performance was the major positive for the Panthers in a disappointing five-wicket loss to Ringwood.

Batting at eight, she top-scored with 21 off 60 deliveries to save some face and see her side to 126, before taking 1/12 off her two overs, coming on early in the match after Thivyaa Mahendran struggled for rhythm in cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

her opening spell.

“She bleeds Cardinia,” said Bulls First XI coach Bradey Welsh.

“She loves the joint and grew up there.

“She still trains with us during the week and she’s grown up playing with the guys.

“She didn’t really want to leave, but we’re so proud of her because no-one really knew who she was, but we did, and we’re glad now that she’s getting noticed because she’s very talented.”

The daughter of former hard-hitting local all-rounder Danny, she’s known around the club for her natural ability; not blessed with height, she has found different ways to challenge batters.

Welsh lauded Diwell’s leadership and character, with the stump-to-stump bowler developing her mindset in recent years.

“In juniors, opposition kids would talk about her and they were genuinely

fearful,” Welsh said.

“I think she took 31 wickets one year; 29 were bowled.

“When I first saw the way she ran in and bowled, the way she moved made it look easy.

“She picks things up really quickly and the control she has with the ball in her hand is exceptional.

“She’s a very intelligent young lady.

“Even at 13-14 you could have an adult conversation with her and she would pick up things very quickly.

“She just wants to get better and is happy to take feedback and criticism.”

A naturally defensive batter, she leaned on that skillset to help Dandenong bat time on Sunday, but has expanded her game in the last 18 months, punishing bowlers who get too straight.

“When she hits the ball now, it stays hit,” Welsh said.

Brooklyn Diwell made her 1st XI debut for Dandenong on Sunday. 371723 Picture: SUPPLIED

Thursday, 9 November, 2023

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STAR NEWS 21

SPORT

Nathan Lambden took 6/51 to lead the Swans’ bowling attack against Camberwell. 267264 Picture: ROB CAREW

Swans soar

By Marcus Uhe

(L-R) Melbourne Stars General Manager Blair Crouch, City of Casey Chief Executive Glenn Patterson, City of Casey Chair of Administrators Noelene Duff, Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards, Cricket Victoria Chief Executive Nick Cummins and Casey South Melbourne Cricket Club president Shaun Picture: ROB CAREW Petrie celebrate the opening of the new pavilion at Casey Fields. 370886

Pavilion to call home

By Marcus Uhe Casey South Melbourne Cricket Club president Shaun Petrie declared the new pavilion at Casey Fields “the best thing I’ve ever seen” following its long-awaited opening on Saturday 4 November.

Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards, City of Casey Chair of Administrators Noelene Duff and Cricket Victoria Chief Executive Nick Cummins were among the key dignitaries on hand to open the pavilion on Saturday prior to hosting the WBBL contest between the Melbourne Stars and the Sydney Thunder.

The redeveloped multipurpose pavilion at ovals four and five has female friendly player change rooms, medical testing facilities, a dedicated first aid room, a media room, an indoor training space and an office and administrative space, jointly funded by the City of Casey, the Victorian Government Community Cricket Program and Cricket Victoria.

Petrie believes the facility will set the benchmark for Premier Cricket clubs and is excited for the opportunities the new space will afford after a difficult period for the club while the facility was under construction.

“It’s what Premier Cricket clubs should have, but what we’ve got is probably the best,” he said.

“We’ve been running the club basically out of people’s car boots.

“We had a shipping container where everything was stored and we couldn’t get to it half the time, it was an absolute nightmare.

“The big spacious change rooms will accommodate women, which is pretty important, we didn’t have that before.

“The scorers have their own rooms, there’s two beautiful viewing areas for both grounds, so it’s going to be amazing.”

Of significance for Petrie is the ability to showcase the club’s history and memorabilia at the pavilion and facilitate the growth of the club’s social platform.

The pavilion can seat roughly 180 people according to Petrie and is a major improvement on what they operated with previous to the redevelopment.

“We had very small change rooms and no real social area where we could hold functions, and that’s been the case since we moved out there,” Petrie said.

“The club has worked extremely hard to maintain that connection between players, parents and supporters but it’s been incredibly difficult, because we’ve got nowhere to meet, basically.

“That’s the fabric of cricket clubs, footy clubs everywhere, (and) without that, you’ve got nothing.

“The club’s been going since 1862 so you can imagine the types of incredible memorabilia that we have, and we haven’t been able to present it anywhere. Now we can.

“Down the track once it gets organised we’d like to be able to offer that space to other sporting clubs, community groups.”

Speaking at the opening, Duff said the pavilion will help the City of Casey become one of Cricket Victoria’s “premier metropolitan cricket and community precincts.” ““These upgrades have transformed this space into a multi-use community facility to benefit the precinct’s multiple users,” Duff said.

“Particularly, the inclusion of female friendly and accessible facility designs means that we are better equipped to support various users now and into the future.”

Casey South Melbourne’s excellent start to the new Premier Cricket season has continued with a thrashing of Camberwell after dominating with both bat and ball.

After batting an extra five overs to see former captain Michael Wallace reach his century and declaring on 6/355, the Swans needed just 66 overs to skittle the Magpies for 177, thanks in large part to a six-wicket haul from Nathan Lambden.

Lambden took the first four wickets of the innings, including two in the 13th over, to have the home side reeling at 4/27 while staring down the barrel of a monster chase.

He had former Swan Atharv Deshpande, fellow opener Henry Walsh and skipper Shorye Chopra all caught, and bowled vice-captain Liam Fitzpatrick, continuing on from his excellent game the week prior against Greenvale.

Wickets fell in clumps for Camberwell, with the Swans not allowing partnership to form at any stage, the largest stand lasting 46 runs between Ben Shields and Reuben Jamieson for the eighth wicket.

Shields was Lambden’s sixth wicket, making it consecutive five-wicket hauls for the right arm seamer, finishing with 6/51 from 17 overs.

Earlier, the Swans batted an additional five overs with Wallace reaching his hundred on the last ball of the opening over.

He was dismissed for 101 as the Swans added 33 runs to last week’s total.

Undefeated from three contests, the Swans sit second on the Premier Cricket ladder with the best net run rate in the competition at 1.31.

Next week’s clash with Kingston Hawthorn at home holds extra significance as the club will have access to the brand new pavilion at their home ground for the first time.

Fast-starting Flyers fall short in WNBL season opener

By Marcus Uhe A second quarter in which the Southside Flyers were outscored by 16 points proved costly in their opening match of the new WNBL season, falling to the Melbourne Boomers by seven points on Saturday night.

Last season’s runner up did not score in the final five-and-a-half minutes of the second quarter in the 70-77 loss, in a rematch of last season’s semi final series, and the first match of the Michelle Timms cup, awarded to the winner of the season series between the two sides.

Bec Cole’s three-point shot with 5.28 remaining in the half tied the scores at 26 before the Boomers scored 14 unanswered points to close the half for a 40-26 lead.

From there, Melbourne never looked back, leading for the remainder of the contest on its way to a perfect start to the new campaign.

The margin was shaved to just three points late in the contest as the Flyers mounted a final quarter fightback, but the Boomers held their nerve when it mattered the most.

The Flyers made the early running by scoring the first nine points of the contest in front of a raucous home crowd at Rowville’s State Basketball Centre with the length of Nyadiew Puoch and returning champion Mercedes Russell influential on the defensive end of the floor.

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Carly Ernst made some excellent plays for the Flyers on the defensive end of the floor.

Picture: PICS BY TRE But the Boomers’ second unit found their feet to close the margin to just two points at the first break.

Baskets were traded early in the second period before the calamitous period in which the Flyers couldn’t score swung the momentum of the contest in the Boomers’ favour.

Defensive miscues from the Flyers and excellent shooting from their opponents made for a frustrating few minutes as they entered the changerooms down 14 at the long break.

It was a 20-point ball game midway through the third quarter with the Flyers unable to con-

Thursday, 9 November, 2023

tain Melbourne’s plethora of scoring options.

Cole and Puoch led the fightback in the third term to cut the lead to nine at the final change, giving the home side a chance of a comeback to kickstart the season.

Russell’s instant chemistry with Maddison Rocci in the pick and roll was effective as Southside made steady increments back into the contest during the fourth quarter.

A pair of defensive stops, finished by Cole at the other end of the floor, cut the lead to three late in the fourth quarter but the Boomers managed to hold the Flyers at bay.

Southside had their chances to snatch a win, however, with the final minute not lacking for drama.

After a Rocci free throw with one minute remaining to cut the lead to one, she drew an offensive foul on the inbounds pass from Boomers point guard Jordin Canada, giving the Flyers possession under their basket.

Cole drove the lane on the inbounds play but her shot was unable to drop after circling the rim.

Russell grabbed the offensive rebound and found Cole again, this time behind the three point line, but her shot was short as the Boomers secured the rebound.

From there, the Flyers were forced to foul their opponents and hope to claw their way incrementally back into the contest, but had no such luck.

Cole was a shining light for the Flyers with a game-high 25 points, while Russell fell just shy of a double-double with 15 points and nine rebounds.

While many of the team statistics reflected a close contest, the 16 rebound differential was a stark outlier in the Boomers’ favour.

Southside head to Canberra on Wednesday for a midweek clash with the Capitals and go further North on Saturday for a grand final rematch against Townsville. cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

SPORT

Pirates’ patience prevails

By Jonty Ralphsmith Parkmore delivered the most mature batting performance so far in 2022-23, timing its fivewicket win over Heinz Southern Districts to perfection.

The Pirates, who forecast a slow start due to unavailability in the XI, have had a couple of tough losses to start the season, but fired with the bat at KM Reedy Reserve.

The visitors won with 18 balls to spare, with five of the top six batters reaching at least 40 as partnership batting was the successful recipe against a well-regarded HSD lineup.

Recruit Kyle Gwynne led the way with a patient 57 off 176; fellow opener Ammar Bajwa also strong with his 43, absorbing pressure and willing to see off disciplined spells.

At number three, Amal Athulathmudali also spent valuable time at the crease, as did Jaime Brohier, who finished off the chase.

Meanwhile, entering the day having already taken a sizeable chunk out of Keysborough’s target of 146, Dandy West cruised to first innings victory before pressing on to an outright.

After setting the tone late on day one, Shaun Weir came out firing again on day two, eventually dismissed for an entertaining 62, his second half century of the season.

Nuwan Kulasekara got a-run-a-ball 71 and

youngster Bailey Howarth spent valuable time in the middle to give the Bulls a 73-run lead.

Noman Khan then did early damage with the ball as Kulasekara and spinners Malinga Bandara and Shaun Weir also chipped in to keep the Knights to 76, Dandy West’s second innings effectively a formality to get the four required runs for outright victory.

At Casey Fields, the quicks did the damage for Cranbourne, who set Parkfield a target of 275.

Jakeb Thomas, Marty Kelly and Tim Fathers collectively bowled 31.4 of the 64.4 overs and picked up eight wickets, each at an economy rate well under two.

Nick Cramer and Suliman Iqbal saw off the new ball for the Bandits before Kelly’s two wickets.

After some excellent lower-order hitting last week, Thomas was rewarded for his discipline with three strikes in his second spell.

Partnership bowling put the pressure on Parkfield as batters got tied down and there was no release at the other end.

Fathers, so often the unrewarded bowler running in with the breeze in his face or playing a role to allow teammates to thrive, bowled 11 tireless overs and claimed 3/12.

At Sweeney Reserve, Lyndale was too good for Narre Warren.

Picture: ROB CAREW

Jaime Brohier muscles a ball to the on-side. 371011

Great games the theme as softball season heats up B Grade women were up next with Cobras taking on Penguins Black, a seven-run third innings helping the former to a 14-8 win.

In the second Women’s B-Grade game Goldstars started strong against MVP with a 10-run first innings and never looked back, with a comfortable 19-7 win.

Rounding off the day was the men’s competition.

There was an arm wrestle on diamond one between Cobras Grey and MVP. With the lead changing a couple of times Cobras won an entertaining game 10-8.

Cobras Maroon and Apache both started strong in their game, with the score 1-1 heading into the third innings.

Home-runs to Apache’s Kane Bell and Nathan Mackey, and doubles for Justin Teohaere and Joshua Dallas saw them to a comfortable 10-1 win.

By Contributed Things are heating up in the Casey Softball Association with round five producing some classic contests.

Wednesday evening saw the Ladies A Grade face off under lights; beginning with Emerald against Casey Red. The pitchers held strong early but Casey scored eight in the last three innings for a comfortable 8-1 win.

A home run to Melissa Spencer, meanwhile, helped break the game Doveton Dragons’ way in a 12-6 win after an even start in their bout with Young Guns.

Comets flew out of the blocks for a big 10run first innings against Cobras.

However, Cobras kept chipping away, to take out a thrilling 13-11 win.

Penguins White and Berwick Chickasaw played an entertaining game, both scoring four in the first innings.

Things are beginning to heat up in the Casey Softball Association. 367607 Chickasaw held an 8-4 lead at the bottom of the third, but Penguins never gave up, scoring five, highlighted by a home run to right field by Ros Cook to take out a thrill-

Picture: SUPPLIED

ing 9-8 win.

Consistent batting, and strong pitching from Geronimo’s Sandra Whalley, saw them have a comfortable 9-2 win over MVPs.

Up and down day as Cranbourne goes down to Keysborough CRANBOURNE BOWLS Weekend Pennant Results It was once again a ‘licorice all sorts’ of results for Cranbourne on Saturday with some teams firing and others struggling to combat some in-form opponents.

Cranbourne 1 team travelled to take on Keysborough 1 and the results were a bit mixed.

Both teams won two rinks each, but the two rinks won by Keysborough were outstanding and the Cranbourne lads had no answer.

Best rink of the day belonged to Jammie Corney (Skip), Matt Stevens, Karen Hickson and Joe Byrne winning 28-19, with an honourable mention for Gavin Wright (Skip), Steve Bentley, John Stanley and Chris Deal winning 18-15.

Cranbourne 1 (65) was defeated by Keysborough 1 (106). - 41 shots and 4 points.

Cranbourne 2 hosted its neighbours Narre Warren 1 in a tough game all day. Both teams won two rinks with the Narre team coming out on top with an overall win by 14 shots.

Best rink for Cranbourne was the team of Ian Barrenger (Skip), Peter Colthup, Marijan Bobetic and Barry Graham winning 18-16.

Cranbourne 2 (69) was defeated by Narre Warren 1 (83). - 14 shots and 4 points.

Cranbourne 3 travelled the road to take on Noble Park 1 and again saw a close game with both teams winning two rinks each.

Best rink of the day was Bill Sherriff (Skip)

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cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

These teams are a 12-a-side and even though Cranbourne won two rinks to one, Burden Park 3 came out winning the overall game.

The best rink was skipped by Steve Muhi, with Jeannie Tomlin, Jo Alsop and Sarah Richardson, winning 20-16.

Cranbourne 5 (47) was defeated by Burden Park 3 (53). - 6 shots and 4 points.

Midweek Pennant: Round 2 The October gusty winds probably affected all clubs today.

It’s very frustrating when you’ve released the bowl on line and it appears good weight, and then a gust of wind comes across the green and takes off with your bowl across the head or inevitably the wind holds the bowl out when you’re expecting it to come in.

However, whomever deals with the conditions better usually comes out on top.

Besides that, all the teams had good games and the company was very pleasant.

Cranbourne 1 travelled to Mordialloc and despite the conditions, a couple of teams struggled and yet only went down by two shots in the end. Winning one rink and losing two, Cranbourne just fell short.

Best rink was skipped by Nick Arnold, with Bill Bradbury, Bill Sherriff and Vic Butera winning 25-9.

Cranbourne 1 (54) was defeated by Mordialloc 1 (56). - 2 shots and 2 points.

Cranbourne 2 hosted the visiting Noble Park 1 team and had its colours lowered by two

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Kristi Hickson was part of a winning Cranbourne rink against Noble Park on Picture: SUPPLIED Saturday. 319467 with Dermot McConville, Rob Scott and Kristi Hickson winning 27-16.

Cranbourne 3 (80) defeated Noble Park 1 (71). + 9 shots and 14 points.

Cranbourne 4 hosted Willow Lodge 1 on the synthetic at Cranbourne and again we had a game where the teams playing won two rinks each.

Best team of the day was skipped by Tony Whalley, with Hans Worsteling, Roger Roscoe and Stuart Walters, winning 33-9.

Cranbourne 4 (84) defeated Willow Lodge 1 (62). + 22 shots and 14 points.

Cranbourne 5 also hosted their opponents Burden Park 3.

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rinks to one.

Cranbourne had its chances, but a couple of thirds and skips stepped up to provide Noble Park 1 with the overall win.

Best rink was that skipped by the current man of the moment, John Kent, and his team of Rob Scott, Kath Dudink and Dennis Tomlin winning 30-10.

Cranbourne 2 (57) was defeated by Noble Park 1 (61). - 4 shots and 2 points.

Cranbourne 3 travelled to Noble Park to take on their number-two team and the team continued its great season start by again winning all three rinks and winning them well.

The team skipped by Tony Whalley won by seven shots and the team skipped by Brian Caddell won by eight shots.

But the team of the day was skipped by Ron Fenton, with Liz Hughes, Olive Stanley and Frank Male winning 24-9.

Cranbourne 3 (63) defeated Noble Park 2 (33). + 30 shots and 16 points.

Cranbourne 4 playing at home took on Chadstone 2 in the 6-a-side game.

Both teams won a rink each, however the Chadstone team won the overall contest by six shots.

Cranbourne’s winning rink was skipped

by Tony Hughes, with Steve Muhi and Helen Blake winning 21-16.

Cranbourne 4 (34) was defeated by Chadstone 2 (40). - 6 shots and 2 points.

-Derek Maguire

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Thursday, 9 November, 2023

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STAR NEWS 23

For more info visit smct.org.au/childrens-remembrance-2023

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CHILDREN’S REMEMBRANCE SERVICE There are no goodbyes for us.

Wherever you are, you will always be in my heart.

- Mahatma Gandhi

Please join us for our Children’s Remembrance Service and share special memories with those you love.

SUNDAY 3 DECEMBER SERVICE STARTS AT 5:00PM Springvale Botanical Cemetery

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Thursday, 9 November, 2023

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