News - Cranbourne Star News - 25th January 2024 by Star News Group

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Thursday, 25 January, 2024

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TAFE success story

Transport exec jailed

Toll fines rack up

Athletics clubs join forces

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SPORT

High flying thrills A daredevil stunt pilot from Paul Bennet Airshows thrilled the masses at the annual Tooradin Tractor Pull and Truck Show on Saturday 20 January. Meanwhile on terra firma, the enormous trucks, tractors and hotted-up cars continued the spectacle. More pictures on page 12

Picture: GARY SISSONS

Doctors on board By Violet Li Pearcedale Medical Centre has reopened on Friday and Saturday mornings since 19 January after the community’s joint effort to raise awareness of the GP shortage crisis in town. Two new GPs have joined the centre with Dr Pillay practising on Friday and Saturday mornings and Dr Gauchan expecting patients on Saturday mornings. In 2023, Star News reported that the medical centre had to cut operating hours due to long-time difficulties in hiring new GPs. Owner Dr Farza Rastegar said policy restrictions and zoning rules shut qualified overseas doctors out of the door. Zoned as a ‘metropolitan’ clinic in the Casey-south catchment, the centre is only allowed to hire overseas-trained GPs or accred-

ited foreign graduates who have been working in a Distribution Priority Area (DPA) for at least 10 years before providing services covered by Medicare rebates. DPAs are locations with a shortage of GPs, mainly in regional, rural, and remote areas. Neighbouring areas, including Frankston and Mornington, have been granted DPA, despite having multiple medical clinics. Somerville, located within the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council, shares the same postcode as Pearcedale and has been classified as DPA. Running the only GP service in town with four GPs caring for more than 3000 patients, Dr Rastegar felt the increasing pressure and requested an exemption change to the DPA classification of the catchment around June last

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year, which was not approved. The government stated that the CaseySouth catchment had higher than average levels of GP services. The community was furious about the rejection after it led to the clinic cutting its hours. They talked to different media outlets, including The Guardian and ABC, hoping for a change. Dr Rastegar said one of the new GPs Dr Pillay saw the news on ABC and contacted her. “He works in Warragul and lives in Clyde. He was really keen to help out,” she said. “But I don’t think he will be able to work here permanently. It’s hard for him to work for six and seven days a week. “I don’t want to raise my hopes high.” Dr Rastegar did not hear anything affirma-

tive from the government and she believed nothing would change in the next round of DPA review after a phone call with an official working for the Department of Health. “It was a very condescending conversation. He constantly told me to stop and listen like I am a five-year-old,” she said. “He was trying to explain to me why they can’t change DPA and exempt the area because it’s a competition between doctors. “He was saying there was a competition within general practices, and the practices that have more doctors are going to be more successful and have more patients.” Dr Rastegar said she was shocked to learn general practices were a hunger game in this official’s mind. Continued page 8

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A summer of fun at Bunjil Place This summer, get ready for an unforgettable experience as Bunjil Place unveils Summer Stage.

New library lockers at community centres

For six glorious weeks, the outdoor plaza will transform into a buzzing mini festival with a jam-packed program of events and entertainment, and everyone’s invited.

Connected Libraries and the City of Casey are excited to launch 27/7 library lockers at Cranbourne West Community Hub, Manna Gum Family and Community Centre and Orana Community Place.

Imagine a vibrant and lively plaza space, bursting with energy and activities. At the heart of it all, a stage that promises to host incredible performances and events throughout the summer.

Library members can collect holds and return items at the lockers at a time that is convenient for them.

For more information and to view the program, visit the Bunjil Place website.

For more information, visit the Connected Libraries website.

There’s still time to register for Clean Up Australia Day 2024 On Sunday 3 March, thousands of community members across the nation will work together to clean up rubbish from local open spaces and waterways. You can get involved by joining a registered Clean Up event happening near you or register your own local site and become a site supervisor.

Council Meetings Members of the community are welcome to attend the upcoming Council Meetings which are held in the Bunjil Place Function Room, 2 Patrick Northeast Drive, Narre Warren. Council Meetings start at 4.00 pm and are also live streamed through our Facebook page and YouTube channel. For more information on Council Meetings, or meeting minutes and agendas, please visit our website. Upcoming Council Meetings: Tuesday 20 February

Registration information is available on our website.

Tuesday 19 March Tuesday 16 April Tuesday 21 May

Catch a Carp Day

Tuesday 18 June

To celebrate World Wetlands Day, residents are invited to River Gum Creek Reserve in Hampton Park to enjoy a fun day of fishing. Come along on Sunday 4 February between 10.00 am and 1.00 pm and join the fight against invasive carp. By removing these fish, we will improve the water quality and create a healthier environment for our aquatic animals. Other activities on the day include a live fish display, a water bug activity and a tote bag/badge making activity.

Provide feedback on a number of consultations currently open on our community engagement platform, Casey Conversations.

To participate in the event, you will need to hold a valid fishing licence. BYO fishing rod and net. Bait will be provided.

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Head to the Casey Conversations website to find out more or scan the QR code.

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Bookings for this free event are essential. For more information and to book, please scan the QR code.

Casey Community Panel Expressions of Interest

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Thursday, 25 January, 2024

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Concerning crime trends By Violet Li Casey has seen a surge in burglaries, thefts and property damage reports in the year to September 2023, according to the latest Crime Statistics Agency (CSA) figures. The number of property damages recorded has risen by almost 10 per cent to 1820, which exceeded the pre-pandemic level of 1687 cases in 2019. There were a total of 1630 burglaries in Casey over the past year, a jump of 26 per cent from 1298. Residential aggravated burglaries have soared by 49 per cent to 427. Non-aggravated residential burglaries have increased by 21 per cent to 768. A total of 7642 thefts have been recorded, showing an increase of 44 per cent compared with the previous year and trending back towards the pre-pandemic level. Motor vehicle thefts have surged by 68 per

cent from 645 to 1081. The number of offences related to stealing from a motor vehicle is 24 per cent above the 2022 level to 2577. In Cranbourne, a significant increase in thefts by 30 per cent has been noted with 1002

offences recorded. In Berwick, the number of thefts recorded has been 885, which represented a 24.8 per cent jump compared to the previous year. Clyde North has recorded a soar in thefts by 52 per cent to 573. There were 24,881 home burglaries across Victoria in the twelve months to September 2023 – 4068 more than the year before. Of the 24,881, 12.5 per cent were attempts only. According to Victoria Police, aggravated residential burglaries, particularly those involving young offenders targeting unlocked properties with the intention of finding keys and stealing cars, are a significant concern for police. Victoria Police’s deputy commissioner Neil Paterson said one of the most significant concerns for police heading into summer was property crime, specifically home burglaries. “Summer is traditionally the peak season

for home burglaries and as such, we’re urging Victorians to take some simple steps to help stop opportunistic thieves,” he said. “Our members will continue to patrol known hotspots across Melbourne every evening until dawn as part of Operation Trinity, however, the community also has a strong role to play. “This summer, please be extra conscious of unlocked doors and windows. Offenders are telling us across the interview table that they will try multiple homes until they find one where they can simply walk through the door or climb through an open window.” In Casey, there were a total of 22,519 criminal offences recorded in the year to September 2023, which was a 8.9 per cent increase compared to the previous year. The number of drug possession has been down from 1123 to 953 - a decrease of 15 per cent.

New beginnings: Ali shines in autobody repair scene By Sahar Foladi Born in Afghanistan, Ali Akber Rezaie has already worked his way up to earn a National Championships medal after just three years in Australia. The Hampton Park man migrated in 2019 to join his parents and worked odd jobs wherever available. He decided to take up studies in autobody repair at TAFE and excelled. “Coming to Australia, everything was new – new culture, new language, and new people. It was a complex transition for me. “It can be hard to settle, to find a job or to understand the systems and TAFE helped with that,” he said. “As soon as I started an apprenticeship, I knew this was for me, this is what I was looking for.” He began working at an automotive repair company that sponsored him to study his Certificate III in Automotive Body Repair Technology at TAFE. He went on to win a bronze award in autobody repair at World Skills Australia’s 2023 National Championships and credits his positive experience at Tafe. “Many of the practical skills we learn in class are immediately applied to the job, but the benefit of TAFE is how we also learn the theory that explains how to do it best. “When I entered the WorldSkills Australia competition, my trainer was one of my teachers. “He has been a mentor and has guided me through my career. I wouldn’t be where I

am today without him,” he said. “I am grateful for TAFE in opening my life to meeting such passionate people who have helped me to build my career and life in Australia.” The opportunity has further inspired Mr Rezaie with an ultimate goal to advance and hone his skills in automotive body repair. He recommends other new arrivals to strive for qualifications and skills that will help them land a job to avoid repeated rejections. “Finding a job is important to people new to Australia, and it can get frustrating when faced with repeated rejection, or if you don’t know where to start. “Studying a tuition free TAFE course is a fantastic way to do so without additional financial stress. “There are many services out there ready to help people new to Australia find their feet – all you have to do is have the courage to ask for help and be open to new opportunities!”

Ali Akber Rezaie won the Bronze award in autobody repair at WorldSkills Australia’s National Championship. Picture: SUPPLIED

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Transport exec behind bars By Esther Linder, AAP and Cam Lucadou-Wells A former transport executive has been jailed for up to three years for his reckless workplace behaviour in the lead-up to a crash that killed four police officers. Cris Large was found guilty of failing to follow health and safety standards while working as national operations manager at Connect Logistics before the Victorian officers were killed in a Melbourne truck smash. Connect driver Mohinder Singh was fatigued and high on drugs when his semi-trailer ploughed into the four officers, who had stopped a speeding Porsche driven by Richard Pusey on the Eastern Freeway in April 2020. Large had pleaded not guilty to the charge the most serious under NSW work health and safety laws - in the third case brought by the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator against Connect executives. The prosecution sought the maximum punishment of five years in prison for the systemic failures that led to the deaths of Senior Constable Lynette Taylor, Constable Glen Humphris, Senior Constable Kevin King and Constable Josh Prestney. Magistrate Daniel Reiss on Tuesday ordered Large to serve a non-parole period of 12 months, meaning he will be eligible for release in January 2025. Prosecutor Jennifer Single SC told Sydney’s Downing Centre Local Court that Large should face the highest possible penalty for his offending given the extent of his wrongful behaviour. That included completing false timesheets, failing to ensure drivers were managing their fatigue appropriately and systemic failures to ensure safety measures were followed. “It was so simple to be corrected ... the offender simply had to do his job,” Ms Single said.

A Connect Logistics executive has been jailed over the freeway crash that killed four police. Picture: SCOTT BARBOUR/AAP PHOTOS The heavy-vehicle regulator alleged the truck company, which is no longer operating, risked public safety and contravened its duties by failing to ensure drivers were assessed and monitored for fatigue, drugs and alcohol. The prosecution argued Large’s encouragement of manager Simiona Tuteru to “get the job done at all costs” was a contributing factor in Singh getting behind the wheel of the truck that later crashed into the four officers. “By failing to comply with his duties, (Large) engaged in conduct on a number of occasions that repeatedly exposed drivers and later the

four police officers to a risk of death and serious injury,” Ms Single said. Concerns were raised in the lead-up to the crash about the number of hours worked by some of the drivers, including cases of staff working up to 20 hours a day. The prosecution also successfully sought a prohibition order to stop Large working in the transport sector for 12 months after his release. Large’s lawyers argued his lack of criminal record and the relatively short period covering his offences - which occurred between December 2019 and April 2020 -

were mitigating factors. But Mr Reiss rejected his claims of remorse, noting the tragic events did not appear to have had much of an impact on the former Connect executive. He described Large’s actions as “very deceitful and deliberate” with the officers’ deaths the consequence. Members of the four officers’ families earlier told of their grief in losing their beloved wives, sons and brothers after the hearing moved to a larger courtroom to accommodate those who had travelled from Victoria for the sentence. Large sat with his head down as Andrew Prestney, the father of 28-year-old Josh Prestney, told the court of the “soul-destroying moment” of finding out his son had been killed. Large was handcuffed and led from the courtroom after the verdict was read out. His lawyers indicated he would appeal the sentence. National Heavy Vehicle Regulator’s director of prosecutions Belinda Hughes said the case showed there was a “shared responsibility for drivers to be fit to drive”. The duty rests on the company and senior management just as much as the driver,” Ms Hughes said. “Fatigue isn’t a minor issue; a fatigued driver risks their own lives and the lives of the road users around them. “Our thoughts are with the families of the four officers. This tragedy serves as a sombre reminder of why we must all work together to uphold the highest standards of road safety.” NHVR statutory compliance executive director Raymond Hassall said the NHVR challenged companies to “critically review” their fatigue management practices. “These systems are crucial for ensuring the safety of drivers and the public.”

New library lounge and locker in Casey Connected Libraries (CL) and Casey Council have launched the Cranbourne West Library Lounge with purpose-built lockers at Cranbourne West Community Hub on Monday 22 January. CL members can borrow, return, and renew items at the new lounge. Free Wi-Fi and public computers are available for use. Storytimes and regular programs will operate from the lounge. CL chief executive officer Beth Luppino said the library was thrilled to offer a service for the ever-growing Cranbourne West and surrounding community. New library lockers are located outside at the rear entrance of the building. Libraries members can collect holds and return items at the lockers any time. These lockers are also available at Orana Community Place and Manna Gum Family and Community Centre

The space of the new Library Lounge. 383593 in Clyde North. Ms Luppino said library lockers were easy to use. Members can place holds on the CL App or catalogue.

They can select a locker pick-up location and when their item is available at the locker, they will be notified via email to collect the item at a time convenient to them. Members will also be able to return items using the lockers. City of Casey chair of administrators Noelene Duff said the launch of 24/7 library lockers at various hubs across Casey was a fantastic new way for busy community members to have convenient, round-the-clock access to library borrowing and return services. “On behalf of council, we’re proud to support CL as they continue to adapt and expand their services to support the community’s needs,” she said. The Library Lounge will be open from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday and will be staffed a few hours each day. Library lockers are available 24/7.

Marketer Kiara Bingham, Connected Libraries chief executive officer Beth Luppino and librarian Himaya Nelson are at the new Library Lounge. 383593 Pictures: LJUBICA VRANKOVIC

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Thursday, 25 January, 2024

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IN BRIEF

Toll fines hit home By Matthew Sims

Police have upgraded charges against a 28-year-old Narre Warren man following a fatal hit-run collision in Knoxfield last December. Police have charged the man with dangerous driving causing death, as well as failing to stop and render assistance and unlicensed driving. Police have alleged a car struck a motorbike on Ferntree Gully Road at about 7.20am on 14 December 2023, with the driver of the car, a 28-year-old Narre Warren man, allegedly fleeing the scene. The motorbike rider, a 65-year-old Ferntree Gully man, was taken to hospital where he later died. Police later arrested the man in Frankston on 15 December. The Narre Warren man will next appear at Melbourne Magistrates Court on Monday 22 April.

Berwick man arrested following Hampton East death Police have arrested a 28-year-old Berwick man following the death of a man in Hampton East on Sunday 21 January. Police also arrested a 27-year-old Hampton East man and a 25-year-old woman of no fixed address, with the trio now assisting police with their enquiries. Emergency services were called to an address on Wickham Road at about 3.45pm on Sunday 21 January, after a 33-year-old Ashburton man was located unresponsive. The man was then transported to hospital with life-threatening injuries, where he later died. Police believed the parties were known to each other. The exact circumstances surrounding the incident are yet to be determined and the investigation is ongoing. To report any information, contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit crimestoppersvic.com.au

Mosquito-borne ulcer warning

Peninsula Community Legal Centre chief executive Jackie Galloway. However, Ms Galloway said they were concerned the scheme was failing to adequately support vulnerable people in the metro South East region. “In our view, the WDP scheme is at risk of stalling just at the time when it is needed most,” she said. “A comparison with the system in NSW, which the Victorian system was modelled on, starkly illustrates the problems. “In the 2021/2022 financial year in NSW there were 29,508 WDPs issued to work off fines to the value of $44,200,000, while in the same period in Victoria, only 1504 WDPs were completed to work off $3,504,758 worth of debt.” To be eligible for a WDP, one must have, or be experiencing a mental or intellectual disability, disorder or illness; an addiction to drugs, alcohol or a volatile substance; homelessness; family violence; or acute financial hardship. The WDP scheme allows a person’s spon-

Picture: SUPPLIED

sor to choose the treatment and/or activities which would be best suited to them and keep records of their participation. Ms Galloway said with the number of accredited sponsors falling severely short of demand, the scheme could not begin to meet the needs of those seeking support. “The fines enforcement system is ineffective and disproportionately burdensome for vulnerable members of the community who find it impossible to pay their fines,” she said. “It is also very costly for government. “We are calling on the Victorian government to invest more resources into the WDP scheme to provide better access for vulnerable Victorians to reduce their fines debt and remove them from the enforcement system, while still maintaining the deterrence and reduction of reoffending.” For more information, about how to access the WDP scheme through the PCLC fines team, phone 9783 3600.

Victorians, including those living in Casey, are being encouraged to understand the risks of Buruli ulcer and take precautions against mosquito bites this summer, as cases continue to emerge across the state. New data highlights a growing number of Victorians are presenting with the infection, with 363 cases in 2023 – the highest number recorded since the infection emerged in Victoria in 2004. Buruli ulcer is an infection linked to mosquitos which can cause significant skin damage. The condition can be treated with antibiotics, making early diagnosis and treatment vital. Symptoms for the infection include spots which look like insect bites, ulcers, painful lumps, limb swelling, redness of the skin and occasionally people can develop severe pain and fever. Tips to reduce the risk of contracting Buruli ulcer include covering up by wearing long, loose-fitting clothing, sing insect repellents containing Picaridin or DEET on all exposed skin, limiting outdoor activity if there is a significant uptick in mosquitoes, removing stagnant water where mosquitoes can breed around the home or a campsite, making sure windows are fitted with mosquito netting or screens, washing any new scratches or cuts and protecting with a dressing and washing exposed skin contaminated by soil or water after outdoor activities.

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Casey-based drivers received the highest number of toll fines across the state during the last 12 months, according to freedom of information (FOI) data obtained by the Peninsula Community Legal Centre. According to the PCLC, about 40 per cent of the state’s road tolls were issued to South East residents, with Casey-based drivers receiving the most with 35,246 fines, followed by Frankston with 16,714, Dandenong with 15,434, Mornington Peninsula with 12,754 and Cardinia with 9046. PCLC chief executive Jackie Galloway said the centre was concerned about the impact the fines would continue to have on vulnerable people who are already struggling due to the ongoing cost of living and housing crisis. “The areas in our catchment where the highest numbers of fines were issued last year also have some of the most disadvantaged postcodes in the state,” she said. “This means our fines team is seeing an increase in the number of people who are already struggling to put food on the table and pay their rent who simply don’t have sufficient funds to pay their fines, even though they want to do the right thing.” In the year to July 2023, more than twothirds of the clients who sought help via PCLC’s fines clinic were experiencing financial disadvantage, while about 50 per cent had a disability and/or mental health issues. According to PCLC, their clients’ average fine debt was $13,000, while some clients had as much as $70,000 worth of fine debt. According to Fines Victoria’s data, the value of toll infringements at the enforcement stage in PCLC’s catchment area in the South East for the 2022/23 financial year was close to $30 million. Ms Galloway said the government needed to look at ways to better support people who were unable to pay off their fines in a timely manner. “We are particularly concerned about the fact that the fines system is a common entry point into the criminal justice system for vulnerable people who are not trying to avoid their fines, but who simply do not have the means to pay,” she said. “There is an urgent need for the government to help these people pay off their fines in other ways, rather than crippling them with life-long debt and the threat of criminal sanctions.” Fines Victoria has operated the Work and Development Permit (WDP) scheme since 2017, which aims to help vulnerable people pay off their fines. The scheme has allowed people to work off their fine debt via a number of therapeutic programs, including financial counselling, educational and vocational courses, treatment by a health practitioner, volunteering, and drug and alcohol counselling. PCLC has been supporting the scheme since 2019 with a special project using funding from the Victorian Legal Services Board to make the scheme more accessible.

Narre Warren man charged following fatal hit-run

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Thursday, 25 January, 2024

STAR NEWS 5

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Happy 101st birthday! By Ethan Benedicto Being a centenarian is no easy milestone, but moving forward from that is another feat entirely. Rosalina Manantan turned 101 on 15 January 2024, making her a step closer to being a super-centenarian who is typically aged 110 and over. This also makes Mrs Manantan one of Victoria’s rough estimates of 1432 people who have hit triple digits, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics December 2018 quarterly population report. Milagros Manantan Reyes, the eldest daughter at 74 years old said during her mother’s party that she’s “just so thankful to the Lord”. “Because without any medications, without any maintenance, just vitamins and drinking some red wine, there haven’t been any big health concerns,” Mrs Reyes said. After sisters and relatives laughed at her banter, Mrs Reyes reiterated that she was confident in her mother’s health. Nanay Rosa, which translates to mother Rosa, is what the 101-year-old has been fondly referred to, and has only ever had one “not so serious problem”. “The first time she was here it took us six months to clear a calcification in her lungs, but that was not really serious or anything. “She’d rest here and then have all these pathology tests and then it was all normal, she didn’t have anything,” Mrs Reyes said. Mrs Reyes came to Australia in 1987 and decided to bring her mother to her home in Hampton Park a few years later in 1993. When her husband died in 1990, Mrs Manantan received most of her support from her children, all of who were overseas at that point. “I was providing for her all the time, so I had to bring her here so I could just look after her. “Everyone wants their parents to come here, for a better life and that was my purpose,” she said. Instead of continuously sending her mother money, Mrs Reyes felt that bringing her to Melbourne was a more viable option, where she could provide help in many more ways. Mrs Manantan was more than a welcome presence in her new home, with Mrs Reyes recalling that she had been a boon to the household chores. “She was able to help me in so many ways, wash our clothes, ironing, cooking, and at that time she was still 70 so she could do that. “When I’d come home from work there’d be food and all the washing’s done, she was good help to me as well,” Mrs Reyes said. From 1998, Mrs Manantan also saw continued support from the Australian Filipino Com-

Milagros Manantan Reyes (left) with members from Young Generation watching a video from cousins overseas.

Rosalina Manantan being greeted by Young Generation members during her 101st party. Pictures: SUPPLIED munity Services, a not-for-profit organisation that promotes Filipino migrants’ wellbeing. The AFCS also advocates for better economic, cultural and political rights in Australia, all of which Mrs Manantan had access to. In the same year, she also became part of the Young Generation Senior Citizens cub, or YG for short, which saw the communal gathering of elderly Filipinos who engaged in activities and held gatherings. For Mrs Reyes, who is also getting older, one of the more difficult things to manage was her mother’s dementia. “I don’t know how many years it’s been now that she’s got dementia, but that’s it really,” she said.

In response, she sponsored her younger sister Elma to help care for their mother in 2019, as arthritis had caught up to her. “After I retired I felt old, arthritis here and arthritis there, so my sister’s the one looking after her now,” Mrs Reyes said. Mrs Manantan has resided in Elma’s and her husband John’s residence since 2019, which so happens to be the same venue of celebration for her 100-year birthday in 2023. Mrs Reyes’s explanation for her mother’s longevity is familial and genetic, quoting two other family members in the United States who have also hit the centennial milestone. She had a first cousin in LA who died when she was nearly 102.

OPINION

LENSCAPE

Milagros Manantan Reyes on the left and her mother Rosalina Manantan on the right. Another first cousin who Mrs Manantan had grown up with is living in Seattle, Washington, and is 100 years old. Mrs Manantan had always been a strong believer and a frequent churchgoer, but as her age caught up to her, she had been saying her prayers at home. Mrs Reyes attributes part of her mother’s healthiness to her strong faith, a quality that has essentially become part of Mrs Manantan herself. As of now, Mrs Manantan resides in her daughter Elma’s and husband John’s home in Cranbourne North and spends most of her day resting and reading the bible.

THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN Thumb down To Casey Council not mowing the lawn.

Thumb up To Tooradin Tractor Pull & Truck Show.

Thumb up To the old clothes dyeing day at Wilson Botanic Park Berwick!

Thumb down To people who dump batteries in the rubbish bin and cause fire in the recycling trucks.

Thumb down To the upcoming KFC in Berwick.

Ashan Madhushanka Walgamage batting for Beaconsfield Cricket Club has eyes for the ball delivered by Berwick bowler Mitchell Shirt last Picture: ROB CAREW Saturday. 384311

6 STAR NEWS

Thursday, 25 January, 2024

Thumbs down To all the overgrown grass in the parks and alongside walking paths. cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

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Thursday, 25 January, 2024

STAR NEWS 7

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Community rallies By Violet Li A fundraising campaign has been launched to support the funeral expenses of a Cranbourne East man who drowned on Friday 12 January. Sahil Panwar, a 25-year-old man originally from Haryana in North India, was swept out to sea in the vicinity of the Bourne Creek Trestle Bridge at Kilcunda Surf Beach at about 8.30pm when he was trying to retrieve his sunglasses in the water. He was found unresponsive on the beach about an hour later. Coming to Australia in 2016 as a student, Mr Panwar was a hard-working cabinet maker before the tragedy. He was also a beloved husband, son, brother, and friend, known for his infectious laughter, warm spirit, and zest for life, according to his cousin Sunil Kumar who launched the GoFundMe fundraising page. “His absence has left a void that can never be filled, but together, we can alleviate the financial strain that has descended upon his family,” he wrote on the GoFundMe page. Mr Kumar said Mr Panwar’s wife was shattered learning about the sudden death of her husband. He set up the fundraising campaign to assist the family in covering funeral costs, memorial

Pearcedale Medical Centre. 368433 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Sahil Panwar at the Yarra River. services, and other unforeseen expenses. “Every contribution, no matter the size, will make a meaningful impact and show his family that they are not alone during this difficult time,” he said. “The pain of losing a loved one is immeasurable, but our collective compassion and support can make a tangible difference.”

Picture: SUPPLIED The campaign has a target of $55,000 and the family has received around $53,000 after seven days of fundraising. Mr Panwar’s body has been transported back to India. Mr Kumar said his family would go back to India soon for the funeral. To help, go to gofundme.com/f/help-sahils-family-in-the-wake-of-tragic-loss

Call for caution around inland waterways Paramedics and lifesavers are urging Victorians to take care in and around inland waterways this summer, following an uptick in fatal and non-fatal inland drownings in Victoria. Life Saving Victoria (LSV)’s 2022-23 drowning report showed there were 19 fatal drownings at inland waterways during the last financial year – a 14 per cent increase on the 10-year average. There were also 12 non-fatal drownings at Victorian inland waterways – a 13 per cent increase on the 10-year average. Local populations at holiday hotspots such as townships along the Murray River can double or even triple during the summer months, however, LSV research and evaluation manager Dr Hannah Calverley said even locals were at risk of inland water incidents. “In Victoria, inland waterways record just as many, if not more, fatal drownings as our coastal locations,” she said. “What’s more concerning, is over a third of inland drownings occur within the person’s own residential postcode it’s locals drowning in their local waterways. “It’s important to not be complacent about water safety wherever you are, be that at home or visiting the local river or lake.” Rivers and lakes present many unique drowning risks and Ambulance Victoria (AV) director emergency management Justin Dunlop said it was important to be aware of the hazards to avoid putting yourself at risk. “Getting in trouble while swimming in a river, lake or dam isn’t the only danger – a lot of our callouts to inland waterways are where people have unintentionally found themselves in a body of water from things such as slips and falls,” he said.

Rivers and lakes present many unique drowning risks. “We’ve seen several cases such as people tripping and falling into a marina or lake while attempting to board a houseboat, which has resulted in fractured bones. “These situations can be more dangerous because the patient is totally unprepared to be in that body of water and can sustain significant injuries.” Around two-thirds of drownings at inland waterways involve alcohol or drug use. Dr Calverley added that unexpected water entries were a real concern all year round. “While summer is a busy time, incidents can also occur during cooler months, with a significant portion of these cases resulting from accidental entry where the individual never intended to get into the water,” she said. “It’s crucial here that when visiting waterways people take note of their surroundings and stay away from the water’s edge to avoid slipping in.

“Children also need to be actively and constantly supervised around all water, appropriate lifejackets should be worn when boating and fishing, and alcohol should be avoided until after you’ve finished being around the water to ensure you remain vigilant.” Mr Dunlop said people planning to visit rivers and lakes this summer could prepare themselves by knowing how to get help in remote areas and learning cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). “If you see someone in trouble in the water, call Triple Zero (000),” he said. “If you’re in a remote location, you can also use the Emergency Plus app, which uses smart phones’ in-built GPS functionality to help a Triple Zero (000) caller provide location details. “Open the app and you’ll be able to tell the call taker your location coordinates, as well as three words which can be used to pinpoint your exact location.” How to stay safe around inland waterways this summer: Read the signs around waterways to familiarise yourself with the dangers, which differ at each body of water and even at different sections of the same river or lake. Learn how to swim and know your limits. Never swim alone and let people know where you’re going. Be alert around waterways, whether you’re planning to enter the water or not, this includes keeping watch on children while they’re in and around water. Whether in a boat, taking part in water sports, or swimming, people should also wear a correctly fitted lifejacket.

· · · · ·

Doctors on board From page 1 “My small business can’t afford $30,000 recruitment fees. I questioned him if he was telling me because our clinic is smaller, we are destined to fail,” she said. “He said he did not mean that, but he thought our clinic got too many patients for the number of doctors. Why can’t the patients go somewhere else? “I said because my patients are local and some of them are elderly. They can’t drive. And he was like, so you want the government to change the guidelines for 10 elderly patients?” The conversation did not go anywhere, Dr Rastegar said. “It was a really heated and upsetting conversation. My heart was pounding for four hours after the call,” she said. “I am going to fight this because I don’t think this is right. The location on the map should not override the health and well-being of 3000 patients. “But I don’t think they would change [DPA] at all. If I shut down tomorrow, I don’t think they care.” In a statement to Star News, federal Health Minister Mark Butler said they knew Melbourne’s outer south-east was continuing to grow and it was becoming more difficult to get into a GP. “There is no higher priority in health for the Albanese Government than rebuilding general practice,” he said. “That’s why we are undertaking a wide-ranging review to urgently investigate how to more equitably distribute doctors and other health workers around the country, through the Working Better for Medicare Review. “The government funds a range of programs and incentives to encourage GPs to relocate in addition to DPA.” The Working Better for Medicare Review is expected to be completed in 2024.

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Cybercrime guilty plea An Endeavour Hills man has been sentenced over buying stolen information from an online criminal marketplace. Wangzhen Jiao, 32, pleaded guilty at the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court to possessing data with the intent to committing a computer offence. He had allegedly used an invite-only website Genesis Market which sold log-in credentials, browsing history, autofill form data and other sensitive data. The man allegedly purchased ‘bots’ containing about 650 compromised credentials. Such “digital fingerprints” can be used to mimic a victim’s access credentials to access their online accounts. Jiao’s home was raided by police on 5 April. He was arrested and his laptop and phone seized. On 19 January, he was sentenced to a 12-month community corrections order.

Genesis Market was shut down after an international investigation led by the FBI and assisted by Australian Federal Police and state police units including in Victoria. The website had access to more than 1.5 million compromised computers, according to the AFP. AFP Cyber Command acting assistant commissioner Chris Goldsmid said cybercriminals were constantly looking for ways to exploit the community for financial gain. “The public should take steps to protect themselves against this sort of crime including regularly changing passwords, ensuring they are unique to different accounts and enabling two-factor authentication.” Dutch Police developed a portal to check if your personal details were compromised on Genesis Market. Visit politie.nl/checkyourhack If you believe you’ve been a victim of cybercrime, report it to police at cyber.gov.au

Jiou Wangzhen, 32, was arrested at his Endeavour Hills home in April 2023. He later pleaded guilty to the cybercrime of buying compromised personal data. Picture: AFP

FOCUS ON … MEDICALLY SPEAKING

GPs vital in combating future pandemics, says RACGP The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has called on the Federal Government to back GPs and practice teams in managing future public health emergencies including pandemics. It comes following the college’s submission to the government’s COVID-19 Response Inquiry Panel. RACGP president Dr Nicole Higgins said GPs and practice teams should never be forgotten. “GPs must be formally recognised as frontline healthcare providers in pandemic preparation, response, and recovery,” she said. “Anything less will compromise our ability to keep our communities safe. Unfortunately, GPs are not sufficiently embedded in the planning process, and we are, to some extent, treated as an afterthought. To change this, we need cross-jurisdictional and inter-agency collaboration, and for GPs and practice teams to always be front of mind. “Practices must also be properly resourced so that we can do our jobs properly. At various times in 2020 and 2021 we felt like we were doing all we could with one arm tied behind our backs. Access and supply of personal protective equipment was an ongoing headache, and provisions should have been made to recognise GPs and practice teams as frontline healthcare workers to ensure we were protected with ad-

RACGP president Dr Nicole Higgins. Picture: RACGP.ORG.AU equate supplies. In the years ahead, planning must include distribution channels for PPE that are responsive to local requirements.” Dr Higgins also warned of the impact of onerous compliance campaigns. “Compliance activity at the peak of the pandemic was the last thing hardworking GPs and practice teams needed during a stressful and desperate time,” she said. “First, in early 2021, we were hit by a compliance campaign relating to new COVID-19 telehealth items, and then we were whacked with

further compliance activity concerning COVID-19 vaccine administration. The fact sheet on the vaccine items was 27 pages long, and we were genuinely doing our best to understand the billing requirements and make sure we were claiming correctly. Yet the Department didn’t seem to care about any of this, and instead of focussing on education and the development of accessible, easy-to-understand resources that are widely promoted, we were targeted for potential compliance breaches. “I call on government to give us a break. As we stressed in our submission to the Australian National Audit Office in June last year, this was very disruptive and placed undue pressure on GPs operating in a tense and uncertain environment. We were doing all we could to adapt and change our practice processes so that we could continue providing care to patients in our communities, and the timing and nature of the compliance activities was unnecessary and unhelpful. So, in future, please cut us some slack, and focus on education rather than officious compliance crackdowns.” The RACGP president also said important lessons could be learnt about information campaigns and targeting particular populations. “Let’s learn from COVID-19 and make sure we are doing all we can to enhance public health knowledge,” she said. “Governments should consider all popu-

lations, with no patients left behind. So, for example, at least initially, there was minimal accessible information for pregnant people about the risks if they or their baby contracted the virus. In future, we must make sure there are mechanisms to better target responses to the needs of people including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients, those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, refugees and asylum seekers, people in rural and remote areas, aged care residents, pregnant people, and patients with a disability. “Misinformation about the virus and vaccine rollout, especially on social media, was a huge problem. We consistently called for the government to fill the information vacuum and boost public awareness campaign efforts and this must be a priority for future public health events. The college stands ready to work with government and apply the lessons learned from this pandemic to best protect our communities in the years ahead.” The RACGP has provided submissions to a number of consultations and inquiries relating to the impact of COVID-19 including the 2020 Senate inquiry into the COVID-19 response, the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety on the Impact of COVID-19 on Aged Care Services, the ANAO audit of the COVID-19 vaccination program, and the inquiry into longCOVID and repeated COVID infections.

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Study support available By Matthew Sims Berwick’s Emma Kirschner’s has taken one step closer to achieving her dreams to work in a police lab, thanks to The Smith Family’s Learning For Life education support program. The former Shepparton High School student joined the program in Year 7 due to her high attendance record and has now transitioned into The Smith Family’s tertiary scholarship program. The Learning for Life education support program provides financial assistance from a sponsor to help families meet the cost of school essentials like uniforms, books and excursions, support from a Learning for Life Program Coordinator to connect the child and their family to local learning opportunities and other supports and access to The Smith Family’s out-of-school mentoring and educational programs to help children get the most out of their school years. Now 21, Emma has begun her preparations to tackle a Bachelor of Science at Swinburne University, towards working within forensic science with goals to carry out lab work in a police environment, while also pursuing her art as a side passion. “It was incredibly helpful,” she said. “It just allowed me to explore my creative side. “My family was struggling a bit at the time.” The program has also been possible thanks to the support of Officeworks’ Back to School appeal. “It’s been my second home at this point,” Emma said. The Smith Family chief executive Doug Taylor said they were aiming to increase their sponsorship base from 62,000 to 100,000 by 2027, so even more of the one in six young Australians living below the poverty line today can

receive support. “Learning for Life, which is enabled by generous Australians, is a game changer; it means that every child we help can access what they need to make the most of their education. “Our research shows that 85 per cent of students on our support program who were in Year 12 in 2020 were in education, employment, or training two and a half years after leaving school, so we know our program has a long-term positive impact.” More than 2200 families responded to an annual survey carried out by The Smith Family, with 88.3 per cent of respondents indicating they were worried to some degree about being able to afford all school supplies their children would need in 2024. Mr Taylor said educational supplies were the first things to fall by the wayside during the increase in the cost of living. “The families we support make impossible decisions every day about how to prioritise the limited resources they have,” he said. “Housing, food, and power are top of the list, but the cost of these essentials have all risen rapidly, meaning educational essentials like uniforms, books, a laptop and the internet are increasingly hard to afford.” “Laptops and the internet are as essential as pens and paper in the 21st-century classroom. “Every Australian would agree that all children should have the same opportunities as their peers at school, so they can achieve their potential.” For more information or to support the program, visit thesmithfamily.com.au/programs/learning-for-life Berwick’s Emma Kirschner has been supported in her studies since Year 7 thanks to The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program. 384209 Picture: LJUBICA VRANKOVIC

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STAR NEWS 11

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Pulling out all the stops Roaring engines, death-defying plane stunts and the smell of burning rubber were among the smells and sounds on offer at this year’s Tooradin Tractor Pull and Truck Show over the weekend. The annual event attracted thousands of people on Saturday 20 January, with attractions also including a stunt plane display, a helicopter and carnival rides. President Allyn Reeve said the event was “very well supported” with about 150 trucks competing for prizes and 38 tractors competing in the Tractor Pull, with competitors coming from South Australia, New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria. He said he was grateful for the Tooradin community’s ongoing support of the event and for the committee’s hard work to organise the day. Star News photographer GARY SISSONS got up close to the high-octane machines to capture all of the fun.

This tractor lost control and ran off the track and had to be towed and pushed from the track. 382227

Black fumes poured out of this tractor. 382227

Part of the Truck Show on the day. 382227

Drivers had to push their machines to the limit. 382227

This old truck was in the tractor pull, it was called Resurrection but that didn’t appear to be the case. 382227

Burnouts were one of the crowd favourites. 382227

Flames from ShowFX Australia was another

Kids getting an advantage by climbing on the gate. 382227 12 STAR NEWS

Thursday, 25 January, 2024

Machines came in all shapes and sizes. 382227

A roaring engine works hard to pull its load. 382227 cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Ash Keating with his exhibition PRESSURE at Bunjil Place.

Ash Keating is using paint-filled fire extinguishers to make large-scale outdoor paintings.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

A live painting at Bunjil Melbourne-based contemporary artist Ash Keating will paint live on stage to a 12-piece ensemble by internationally acclaimed composer and producer Ryan Ritchie at Bunjil Place on Saturday 10 February. The performance LIVE PRESSURE is part of his new exhibition PRESSURE at Bunjil Place. Mr Keating and Mr Richie have collaborated on numerous projects since 2003; this will be their most ambitious undertaking to date, according to the two of them. LIVE PRESSURE is said to widen the sen-

sory experience through lighting and the dynamic music improvisations of Mr Ritchie’s 12-piece ensemble. Mr Keating works within an expanded contemporary field through painting, performance, sculpture, video, and intervention. His large outdoor murals, created with paint-filled fire extinguishers, can be found across Melbourne. Over the past decade, he has cultivated a studio-based practice, working on canvases that allow for greater experimentation within the controlled conditions of an indoor space.

Presented as one work in nine parts, PRESSURE is a sequence of paintings scaled to encompass and invite the viewer into a field of shifting colour and exuberant gesture. Drawing on the tradition of action painting that welcomes spontaneity and improvisation, Mr Keating has refined a distinct methodology of intuitive actions and markmaking using varying propulsion and gravitybased techniques. Looking back to the raw energy of his sitespecific outdoor paintings of the early 2000s, he has approached PRESSURE as a testing ground – a new body of work created as a cel-

ebration of experimentation, that draws upon 20 years of practice and the memories deeply held in body and mind. Ryan Richie is a Melbourne-based composer performer and producer. He is the founding member of orchestral jazz electro ensemble The Raah Project and the artist behind live hip hop/jazz ensemble True Live. His original work draws influence from the traditions of contemporary jazz, minimalism, hip-hop, and dance. Ash Keating’s exhibition PRESSURE has been ongoing until 17 March 2024 at Bunjil Place.

FOCUS ON … DANCE, MUSIC AND DRAMA

Ballet Scholars at Cathy-Lea Studios Kayla Paturzo and Isabelle Lam are two highperforming Ballet students from Cathy-Lea Studios. Kayla was presented Cecchetti Excellence Award for achieving 100 per cent in her grade 4 Ballet examinations, and Isabelle received the Cecchetti excellence Award for receiving 100 per cent in her grade 5 Ballet examination. Both girls were selected for the Cecchetti Ballet Junior Scholars Program in 2023. In the program, they took classes with world class Ballet coaches on Sundays throughout the year. At the Cecchetti Medal Awards, an elite Ballet competition, Kayla placed second in the

Rose Medal section and Isabelle received an Honourable Mention in the Bronze Medal section. But their exceptional achievements are not only in Ballet. Kayla and Isabelle also both achieved 100 per cent for their ATOD Jazz exams and Isabelle received 92 per cent for her ATOD Tap exam. Both girls have also won many awards at dance competitions in Ballet, Contemporary, Lyrical and Jazz styles. Cathy-Lea Studios provides exceptional training in Dance and Performing Arts, developing diverse and versatile performers. Cathy-Lea Studios have been leader in performing arts training in South East Melbourne

since 1991, offering tuition in Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Contemporary Dance, Hip Hop, Lyrical, Acrobatics, Drama, Singing, Musical Theatre and Instrumental Music to students of all ages and abilities. Enrolments are now open for 2024 with classes catering for students of all ages and abilities aged 18 months to adult. With more than 150 classes per week in Dance, Music and Drama, Cathy-Lea is sure to have a class that meets your needs. Enrol now or book a free trial at www.cathy-lea.com Isabelle and Kayla at Cecchetti Ballet Medal Awards.

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WHAT’S ON Hampton Park Australia Day

The Hampton Park Progress Association is hosting its free annual Family Friendly Fun Day on Australia Day. FREE: Rock climbing, Jumping castle, Fairy floss, Face painting, Hot dogs, Slushies, Music performers, Children’s play activities, Vendors (henna tattoo, books, flight simulator, Berwick Air League, radio broadcast simulator), Emergency services trucks and displays (Ambulance Victoria, Hampton Park Fire Brigade, State Emergency Service, Victoria Police, Neighbourhood Watch Casey) 26 January 9am-12pm, 16-20 Stuart Ave, Hampton Park, Formalities at 10am

Seated Movement Sessions (Chair Dancing) Would you enjoy exercising from the comfort of your chair? 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. Timbarra Community Centre, 20-26 Parkhill Drive, Timbarra Way, Berwick. $8 per session. Contact admin@berwicknc.com.au or phone 9704 1863. Wednesdays from 10.45am to 11.30am.

Balla Balla Community Centre The centre has vacancies in the following classes in 2024: Introduction to Creative Writing: Thursday mornings commencing 8th February for 8 weeks Conversational English- small friendly class each week Computers for the Home and Workplace: Friday mornings 10.00am -12.30pm commencing 2nd February for 8 weeks Yoga: Beginner classes available on Thursday afternoons and Thursday evenings Pilates: Tuesday afternoons and Wednesday evenings Zumba: Tuesday evenings Playgroup (1-4 years) Balla Balla Bubs (0-12 months) Get Your Art On – Children’s Art: Monday afternoons after school Morning Melodies is back!: The first session is Tuesday 13 February and the following ones will be held on the second Tuesday of each month. Enrolments can be made online https://ballaballa.com.au/programs/ or by phoning 5990 0900

Casey Cardinia Life Activities Club 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.

MIFF Summer Screenings at Bunjil Place The program will kick off with the MIFF Shorts Program showcasing four short films each influenced by the life and cultural experiences of the filmmakers. The next three nights will screen a feature film each from 8pm, following live music performances from 7pm. 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 10am for a Coffee at Little Sparrow Fountain Gate. For more information, contact enquiry officer Gloria on 0468 363 616.

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Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre For more than 30 years, the centre has provided a range of high-quality childcare, community services, educational classes and spaces for hire. Explore diverse activities and engage with fellow community members at their open day this weekend. Lots of free family fun, sausage sizzle, animal nursery, popcorn, and fairy floss.

Berwick Springs VIEW Club Affiliated with The Smith Family, the Berwick Springs VIEW Club is a not for profit organisation, with the aim to fundraise to support Learning for Life students. 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.

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Do you enjoy craft making? Join Berwick Activities Group’s Elizabeth to discover the world of papercraft and have a chat with like minded people. You will be introduced to a range of papercraft techniques through a new project each week. Casual attendance is welcome. Timbarra Community Centre 20-26 Parkhill Drive, Timbarra Way, Berwick. $5 per class, all materials supplied. Contact admin@berwicknc.com.au or phone 9704 1863. Tuesdays from 10am to noon.

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Thursday, 25 January, 2024

STAR NEWS 15

NEWS

Fun summer at Botanic Gardens These summer school holidays, Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria is hosting a range of free and paid events to entertain and encourage children to play, connect, and learn in nature. The Wind in the Willows For family entertainment and live interactive theatre, The Wind in the Willows is running at Melbourne Botanic Gardens until 28 January, celebrating over 35 years at the gardens and presented by The Australian Shakespeare Company. The Head Chief Rabbit will transform the audience into rabbits with a waggle of the ears and a wiggle of the nose. The ‘young rabbits’, will be encouraged to get involved in the action, scream out loud, and sing along. Nature Play For children who enjoy getting creative, crafty, and messy, Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne is hosting Nature Play: free family-friendly, nature-based activities until 25 January. Under the shade of the eucalypts in the Kids’ Backyard, Learning Facilitators will teach children about the different plants and animals that call the Australian environment and our Gardens home through a range of nature-inspired play activities. Kid’s Explorer Bus At both Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne and Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne during these school holidays, children can ride free on the Kid’s Explorer Bus. This is a 30-minute tour designed especially for families where children and their loved ones will experience the sights, sounds, and scents of the Gardens, and learn why plants are so important for our planet. For further information, visit rbg.vic.gov.au and click ‘What’s On’

Nature Play.

Film time

Picture: SUPPLIED

The Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF) will return to Bunjil Place in February to present some of the best from the recent film program on the big screen. Presented over four nights under the stars, this event will screen some of the most popular films from MIFF 2023, which you can enjoy alongside live performances, Q&As with filmmakers, and drinks and food. Running from 1 to 4 February, the program will kick off with the MIFF Shorts Program showcasing four short films each influenced by the life and cultural experiences of the filmmakers. The next three nights will screen a feature film each from 8pm, following live music performances from 7pm. City of Casey chair of administrators Noelene Duff said the council was proud to be able to offer unique cultural experiences to local audiences through our world-class entertainment precinct Bunjil Place. “The MIFF Summer Screening Program promises to be a great local night out for film lovers or those just wanting a unique summer experience,” she said. “With live music performances, filmmaker Q&A sessions, a delectable menu, and refreshing drinks, all complemented by an outstanding lineup of Australian and international films, you don’t want to miss this cinematic celebration at Bunjil Place. Join us for a mesmerising experience under the stars, where film, culture, and entertainment converge.” Tickets are $10 per night, or $35 for all four nights – and include a complimentary drink on arrival. To know more about the film program, visit bunjilplace.com.au/news/ miff-summer-screenings-2024

Skating for a cause, Adam is ready for 160km journey By Sahar Foladi

Let us come together as one people to give thanks for our beautiful land. Australia embraces people from different cultures and countries, and we are proud to call our nation home.

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Let’s celebrate AUSTRALIA DAY together

A skating enthusiast, Adam Morrow is set to skate for 16 hours passing through Greater Dandenong from Dockland to Phillip Island. The more than 160km skate is set on March 14 from 10pm, as Mr Morrow hopes to make it to Phillip Island by 2pm the next day. “All of the night skating will be on bike paths and around Dandenong I will be on back streets and footpaths. “Nothing I haven’t done before, so I’m confident skating that sort of terrain.” Although it all started because of his love for adventure and skating, this project sets itself apart as Mr Morrow will be raising funds for charities close to him, Love Your Sister and the Heart Lung Transplant Trust Victoria. Besides having a double lung transplant himself, he has also had few friends pass away due to cancer. “A friend of my wife had a double lung transplant which gave her many years of life with family and friends. “Later she battled with cancer (unrelated to the transplant) and passed away.” After he met with Sam Johnson, founder of Love Your Sister charity, and found that he’d unicycled around Australia as a fundraiser, Mr Morrow says he knew it was the right cancer charity “for his crazy skate.” He has already raised more than $1000 with an ultimate goal of raising as much as possible. He is backed by a few skate centres and on his trip to Phillip Island. Mr Morrow’s journey can be followed on his social media pages, on Facebook Epic Inline Maintenance and Instagram epic_inline_ maintenance as he regularly posts his training. To donate, https://www.mycause.com. au/p/317641/adams-epic-skate

Adam Morrow. 16 STAR NEWS

Thursday, 25 January, 2024

Picture: SUPPLIED cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

SPORT

A partnership between Berwick and Cranbourne is set to see up to 900 athletes descend on Edwin Flack Reserve during Pictures: CENTRE SUPPLIED the early weeks of February. 384788

Berwick and Cranbourne Little Athletics Centres will work together for the next few weeks.

Clubs relay the message By Jonty Ralphsmith Berwick and Cranbourne Little Athletics Centres have announced a strategic partnership during the resurfacing of Casey Fields – the traditional home of Cranbourne athletics. Both centres individually have more than 400 members, putting both in the top 10 across Victoria in regards to participation numbers, with the partnership set to see up to 920 junior athletes descend on Edwin Flack each Saturday from 27 January. The full dates for the Edwin Flack Reserve extravaganza are on back-to-back Saturdays -

27 January and 3 February - then Saturday 17 and 24 February. The decision to combine efforts aims to ensure uninterrupted competition opportunities for all athletes during the Casey Fields resurfacing, ahead of upcoming regional and state competition period. Athletes from both Berwick and Cranbourne will now benefit from an increased level of competition, contributing to their growth and development in the sport. The amalgamation of these two athletics centres will not only foster healthy competition but will also play a pivotal role in cultivat-

ing stronger friendships among athletes. Cranbourne will provide Berwick with prominent training times leading up to the Little Athletics Victoria State Championships, which will be hosted at Casey Fields. This collaborative training initiative aims to familiarise athletes with the upgraded track, providing them with the invaluable opportunity to train where they will compete. Both centres emphasise the positive impact the partnership will have for the success of athletics in the region. The decision to join forces has been endorsed and signed off by the committees of

both centres, reflecting their shared vision for the future of athletics in the region. “We wanted to keep all the kids in the local area, so the only way forward was to reach out and work together,” said Berwick Competition Manager Steve Woolfe. “You don’t want to be forcing parents to get up early on a Saturday morning to drive 45 minutes and find an athletics centre to compete at. “It brings in a stronger competitive streak to each week, creates a greater atmosphere, and there will be the opportunity for newfound friendships and so forth.”

Netball leagues combine Youngsters in the spotlight for junior competitions By Jonty Ralphsmith

By Marcus Uhe Junior netball in the South East is set to be the biggest beneficiary of the partnership between the developing South East Premier Netball League (SEPNL) and Outer East Football Netball (OEFN). In a joint statement from representatives of both organisations on Tuesday 16 January, including OEFN Chief Executive Brett Connell and Netball Coordinator Matt Blanchard, and Lani Mannays and Dean Ziesler from the SEPNL, it was announced that a junior competition would be formed featuring teams from both competitions. This would allow for “stronger competition and pathways into the relative senior club grades,” the statement read. “South East Premier Netball League (SEPNL) and Outer East Football Netball (OEFN) are pleased to announce that following a number of productive meetings, they will be joining forces in 2024 and partnering to support and develop community netball further in the South East region of Melbourne,” the statement said. “This junior competition will be provided competition management and administrative support by OEFN, in partnership with SEPNL. “While a number of details still need to be worked through, both parties agree that working together, in good faith and for the good of the game, it will bring longer term benefits to community netball in the region.” Junior netball fixtures for 2024 are yet to be released. Clubs that fielded junior sides in 2023 included Narre Warren, Pakenham, ROC, Beaconsfield, Berwick and Hampton Park in the U13s and U15s, while the U17 Blue competition included clubs from the Yarra Valley such as Wandin, Mt Evelyn, Olinda Ferny Creek and Seville. Beaconsfield, Hampton Park, Berwick, Cranbourne and Berwick Springs have all cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

South East Premier Netball League club Beaconsfield will have its junior sides compete in a combined competition with Outer East Football Netball clubs. 357890 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS committed to playing in the SEPNL in 2024, with Beaconsfield and Berwick departing OEFN’s senior netball competition. Further affirmation of the new league’s emergence came on Tuesday when it announced it had secured affiliation with Netball Victoria. The decision was made after “careful consideration of the benefits and opportunities” affiliation will bring to stakeholders, such as players, supporters and clubs, the SEPNL Board said in a statement. Key benefits of affiliation for the league include accessing more support and resources from Netball Victoria, increased exposure through participation in state-wide competitions, and fostering collaboration amongst other netball competitions. “We believe that this affiliation will be beneficial for all parties involved; our league members, clubs, players and supporters; Netball Victoria; other state-wide associations; local media outlets; schools; businesses; community organisations; etc,” the SEPNL Board’s statement said. Netball Victoria declined to comment.

The Casey Cardinia Cricket Association (CCCA) was well represented at the Victorian Metropolitan Cricket Union (VMCU) carnival throughout January, with a suite of talent on display. The CCCA was done proud by the under12s in the J Browne Plate, the team reaching the grand final but ultimately falling 92 runs short on Sunday. Skipper Manmeet Singh Gabbi and middle-order bat Jackson Francis both made 34 off 39, but CCCA never threatened knocking off WRJCA’s massive 3/232 off 40 overs. Gabbi’s knock came after he top-scored in the semi final against SECA to steer his team towards a tense one-wicket win, with Kaiden Sibelle-Strang (34 not out off 60) also critical after Blake Tongue’s three first-innings wickets helped give the CCCA a chance. After losing its first game of the carnival against RDCA, the CCCA stormed into the final on a six-game winning streak which included that tight semi final win. Tyson Larner was a prominent player throughout the tournament, finishing the earlier fixtures on a high with 53 off 42 to help his team to victory over BHRDCA. Larner also started strongly with the bat, his 40 off 43 a big factor behind his team’s first win of the tournament in round two, while he also showed his talent with the ball, taking 5/12 (6) to help bowl MPCA out for 82. The fast scoring Gabbi also showed glimpses of his best, with a half century at better than a run a ball kick-starting his campaign. Tongue (3/13 off four in round 3) and Francis (46* off 60) also contributed through the round robin phase of the tournament. In the Under-14 Nolan Cup, CCCA managed to win just one of its six round-robin matches but there were still promising displays. The round two win over FTGDCA was set up by Tye Whitnell tearing apart the middle order with 4/17 (4.4) before Ranveer Sharma and Diluth Aluthwatta played an important 64-run opening stand. Opening bowler Khushpreet Singh (3/21 off eight) did his part despite the loss in round one; Dihela Thilakarathna took three impor-

The CCCA Under-12 Grand Final squad, back row, left to right; Robert Fuller (AssistantCoach), Brody Francis, Kaiden Sibelle-Strang, Shayne Larner (Coach), Kade Russel, Jackson Francis, Neven De Rose and Nathan Francis (Assistant-Coach). Front row; Brody Larner, Cody Sharam, Lachlan Bell, Tyson Larner, Manmeet Gabbi, Charlie Perry, Blake Tongue, Picture: SUPPLIED Heath Lacey. 384983 tant wickets as part of a strong bowling display in round three, while Sharma scored a steady half-century in round four. During a solid campaign with the bat, Aluthwatta also took three wickets; and Murphy Hancox led the attack in round five. The Under-16 Crusaders won their first four matches of the round robin, enough to qualify for the semis, where they were undone by FTGDCA. CCCA had several standouts with the ball, led by Ethan Wood, who took a scalp each match, finishing with 14 wickets across the seven games, while Will Setford (11 wickets), Dylan Aluthwatta and Jasjit (both six wickets) were also strong. Darcy Freeman’s two half centuries, including one in the semi final, stood out with the bat, while Gurnoor Momi and Dev Narayan Brojesh both played classy knocks. The under-18 team was winless across five rounds with Kye Prior the clear standout with the ball, taking seven wickets, while Liam Simpson played two important lower-order cameos. Thursday, 25 January, 2024

STAR NEWS 17

SPORT

Bulls bounce back By Jonty Ralphsmith Two of the Turf 2 games in the Dandenong District Cricket Association are in the balance at stumps on day one. Heinz Southern Districts (HSD) was the only team able to grasp a clear advantage ove its opponent, reaching 9/254 against Keysborough. It’s a disappointing outcome for the Knights, which dug deep last week to upset Cranbourne and was close to upsetting the Cobras earlier in the season. The headline-grabbing result of the weekend was Parkmore bowling Dandenong West out for 104, but the all-round strength of the Bulls’ bowling lineup saw them respond by dismissing the Pirates for 77 on a tricky wicket. The internationals shone, with Nuwan Kulasekara taking five wickets and Malinga Bandara three. Narre Warren reduced Cranbourne to a solid 175 as no-one was able to go on with their starts, the Magpies sitting at 3/44 in response. Like Cranbourne, Parkfield was solid but the dismissal of a set batter as it tried to gain ascendancy has kept the match in the balance. The Bandits set Lyndale 173 after a fourthconsecutive strong opening partnership between Nathaniel Cramer and Dishan Malalasekera. Summary: (Day one) Narre Warren 3/44 v Cranbourne 175, Dandenong West 104 v Parkmore 77, Lyndale v Parkfield 173, Keysborough v HSD 9/254. Ladder: Dandenong West 50 HSD 39, Parkfield 39, Cranbourne 30, Lyndale 30, Parkmore 24, Narre Warren 21, Keysborough 15. DILUM SASANTHA IMPRESSES Left armer Dilum Sasantha played an important supporting role on Saturday; Parkmore pleased with his progress this season. Bowling first change to an unbeaten opening partnership, Sasantha’s vigour put pressure squarely on the batters and created opportunities for his team. He had to bide his time to start the season, his only senior game before Christmas being against Parkfield. But a second XI four-wicket haul against Cranbourne was wedged between a series of impressive displays, enough to earn a call up for Round 10’s win where he helped dismantle Lyndale. Taking the wickets of Anthony Brannan and Nuwan Kulasekara, alongside Matt Collett underlines his progress. He finished with figures of 3/25 off 14. The protagonist of the bowling lineup, however, was Ammar Bajwa who picked up 5/16 in

By Marcus Uhe

Talal Shahzad was excellent with the ball for Narre, alongside Damien Gamage. 384314 Picture: LJUBICA VRANKOVIC 5.5 overs, three of the scalps caught in close underlining his control. TWIN FIVE-WICKET HAULS Narre Warren pace bowlers Damien Gamage and Talal Shahzad each picked up five wickets to bowl Cranbourne out for 175 in 58 overs. Extraordinarily, Gamage, who has been on the edge of the First XI all season, bowled 16 overs on the bounce. The first-change bowler picked up the first five wickets and conceded just 30 runs in an unrelenting spell. “The thing with him was staying patient on his line and length,” said skipper Ben Swift. “He barely missed his spot the whole day, it was a good display of bowling. “He bowled really well last week and carried that into this week. “He rolled his fingers on the ball and the pitch was a bit tacky so I thought he’d get a bit of purchase out of it and he gave me no reason to take him off.” Swift was also pleased to see Shahzad get rewarded for his hard work. The teenager had just four wickets this season coming into Saturday and never more than one in a match. Shahzad appears to be finding his feet as a bowler who can control the middle overs and do damage with the older ball, having initially

been brought into the side last season to open up. “I could definitely see him cementing a spot in the ones, there’s no reason he can’t keep doing what he’s doing because he’s got a vested interest in it,” Swift said. “As he continued to work on that consistency and fills out a bit, he’ll be harder to face because he gets it to pop up a bit.” The Magpies have been increasingly competitive throughout the season as they have gelled as a team and new names have taken responsibility. TRIYAN DELIVERS Triyan De Silva’s season so far has been a metaphor for his side: indifferent with the bat, lionhearted with the ball. On Saturday, the Cobras - and De Silva - were able to turn their fortunes with the blade around, scoring 9/254 against Keysborough. Brent Patterson gave them a solid foundation, before De Silva took every opportunity to score, his 70 off 86 a reminder to the competition of his talent with bat in hand which his club will hope to see consistently in the last two months of the season. The middle-order bat had got starts in five of his nine hits leading into last weekend but a high score of 45 reflected his inability to play a match-winning hand.

Kookaburra Cup and Country Week time By David Nagel It’s set to be a huge start to February for the Casey Cardinia Cricket Association (CCCA) with T20 Kookaburra Cup grand finals and Country Week representation both steadily building on the horizon. The Kookaburra Cup grand finals will take place at the home ground of Devon Meadows, Glover Reserve, on Sunday 4 February, with both the Premier and District Division premierships to be played for on the day. The blockbuster double-header kicks off with Cranbourne Meadows looking to win back-to-back District Division Kookaburra Cups against a talented team from Lang Lang, who made their way to the big dance in controversial circumstances. The Swamp Tigers were defeated by Nar Nar Goon/Maryknoll in the semi-final, but progress to the grand final after the Marygoons were disqualified for playing an ineligible player. The elite-level Premier Division title will then go up for grabs, with Kooweerup and Merinda Park set for an epic battle with both being undefeated after three round-robin rounds and semi-finals. Merinda Park skipper Mat Campbell can’t wait for the challenge of taking on the reigning champs. “Merinda Park has been starved of success, and once we won the first two games, we really 18 STAR NEWS

Thursday, 25 January, 2024

Swans fall short by 12

Officer left-arm quick Cooper Pursell will be a key cog in the CCCA Country Week team that will take on the best of the best in Melbourne beginning on Monday 12 February. 366806 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS identified this as a great opportunity to have some success,” Campbell said. “We identified that we wanted to attack it really hard. “We’ve planned heavily off-field to get where we are now…and we’re excited

by the challenge.” The CCCA has also announced its 14-strong squad that will represent the association at Melbourne Country Week, beginning on Monday 12 February. Joint leaders have been announced, with Kooweerup’s Chris Bright and Pakenham captain Dale Tormey leading a strong squad into battle. Officer opening bowler Cooper Pursell will fly the flag for the District Division clubs, while six of the eight Premier Division teams will form the nucleus of the squad. The squad will train on Wednesday’s at Tooradin in the build-up, with a team presentation to take place on January 31. CCCA 2023/24 COUNTRY WEEK SQUAD Morteza Ali Cardinia Chris Bright Kooweerup (C) Brad Butler Tooradin Steven Dillon Kooweerup Will Halton Devon Meadows Lucas Ligt Devon Meadows Luke McMaster Kooweerup Ben Parrott Tooradin Cooper Pursell Officer Rumesh Ranasinghe Merinda Park Dylan Sutton Tooradin Dale Tormey Pakenham (C) Travis Wheller Cardinia Jason Williams Pakenham

Losses in consecutive weeks has seen Casey South Melbourne fall from first to fifth in Victorian Premier Cricket in the last fortnight. Returning to Casey Fields on Saturday, the Swans were unable to chase Geelong’s total of 224 in a One Day contest, falling 12 runs short after 50 overs. A strangely wet surface greeted the two sides in Cranbourne, with Swans skipper Luke Shelton electing to bowl first to their visitors from across the other side of the city. Nathan Lambden and Jackson Fry bowled typically tight in the opening overs, offering limited scoring opportunities to Geelong. Lambden beat the bat consistently and made a handful of appeals for LBW, but failed to convince the men in charge. Frugal bowling saw Cats opener Hayden Butterworth run a risky single on the awaiting arm of Ashley Chandrasinghe, who was alert to the opportunity and broke the opening partnership on 40. Devin Pollock then snaffled a diving catch to his right in the following over to remove Ryan Aikman, leaving the visitors with two new batters at the crease after 12 overs. An 87-run stand then eventuated for the third wicket, ended again through a Chandrasinghe run-out of captain Joshua Larkin. Consistent wickets kept the pressure on Geelong, with no batter passing 50 but plenty making starts, bowled out on their final ball of the innings for 224. Casey South Melbourne skipper Luke Shelton bowled excellently in the middle overs, taking 2/42 from nine overs, Lambden the only other multiple wicket-taker with 3/38 from 10. Chandrasinghe and Ruwantha Kellapotha made an excellent start to the run chase, making their way to a 109-run opening partnership until Kellapotha was forced to depart for 46. Michael Wallace and Devin Pollock then both came and went in quick succession, leaving Chandrasinghe and Chris Benedek to steady the ship. Chandrasinghe quickly found himself as the lynchpin of the innings, in part due to a lack of contributions from his teammates, his wicket for 65 proving decisive in the Geelong defence. Benedek’s 34 was the highest individual score in the middle order that felt the pinch of a climbing required run rate. The Swans batted out the 50 overs but could only reach 8/212, succeeding second place in the process. With three rounds remaining, there’s still time to make up the gap - only six points separate the Swans from Carlton in top spot, with three teams tied for second place on 49 points. Three two-day games conclude the home-and-away season; the Swans’ run home beginning at Northcote on Saturday.

Ashley Chandrasinghe continued his excellent form for Casey South Melbourne with 65 on Saturday against Picture: ROB CAREW Geelong. 266416 cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

SPORT

Cobras living on the edge By David Nagel Winning games of cricket is one thing…but feeling the euphoria and excitement of prevailing in a thrilling finish is the most enjoyable experience in sport. Kooweerup and Tooradin have won 16 games between them this season in CCCA Premier Division, but haven’t experienced the adrenalin rush, while Cardinia’s four wins have also come comfortably. Pakenham has had one or two close calls; but isn’t it ironic that teams that sit outside the top-four seem to get the most serious bang for their buck. Devon Meadows prevailed in a thriller against Pakenham in round six, while Carlisle Park was on the edge of its seat on the way to a round three triumph over Clyde. On Saturday, Clyde and Merinda Park joined the ‘euphoria’ party! The Cougars have won their only two games for the season over the last fortnight, with Saturday’s one-run win over Devon Meadows releasing the feeling of excitement. The Panthers needed one run to tie; two runs to win, when Ankush Rana trapped Jamie Cape LBW with a full ball. The Cougars went off; the most enjoyable feeling in sport - even though it only lasts for seconds - was all theirs. As for Merinda Park…well, it’s simply been greedy in recent times. On Tuesday 16 January, Cobras’ skipper Mat Campbell struck a four through mid-wicket – off the last ball of the match - to win a thrilling Kookaburra Cup semi-final over Pakenham. Just five days later, Campbell experienced a similar euphoria once again. He was in the middle when 23-year-old Liam Bertrand secured victory over Carlisle Park with just two balls remaining in the match, and the ramifications are huge… ROUND SUMMARY Merinda Park (9/192) has kept its faint finals hopes alive and almost certainly secured a place in CCCA Premier Division next season after a stunning victory over bottom-placed Carlisle Park (9/190). The Cobras are now just one game and percentage outside the top four after Liam Bertrand (60 not out, off 34 balls) played a true ‘season-defining’ innings. Batting at six Bertrand shared a brief partnership with Cobras’ number-three Daniel McCalman (44 off 57), with the pair ready to launch with 10 overs remaining and 73 runs required for victory. But when McCalman fell to Senal De Silva (8-1-27-2) just four balls later, Bertrand had the task of guiding the lower order to a 70-run

Cambell Bryan helped lay the platform for Merinda Park’s thrilling victory over Carlisle Park on Saturday. 265739 total with just nine overs and five wickets left in the tank. The next equation; 39 to win from five! The hard-hitting Bertrand then took control, propelling the Cobras to consecutive overs of 10 and 16 to set up the victory. The Cobras needed four runs to win from the final over. A single to Bertrand was followed by the run out of Harwinder Singh (0), who sacrificed his wicket to get the ‘hot-hand’ back on strike. Requiring three to win off four balls, Bertrand then cracked back-to-back twos to win with two balls left in an epic contest. Bertrand carved six boundaries and one towering six during his knock, with his skipper Mat Campbell (0 not out) a proud and relieved man as they met in the middle of the pitch. “If he hits one, you don’t want to be behind it, because he can really hit a cricket ball,” Campbell said. “He hit along the ground, he picked his bowlers and picked the right ball…it was a fantastic innings for his cricket club.” McCalman and Cambell Bryan (24) laid the

platform for the Cobras…before Bertrand applied the finishing touches. Meanwhile, Clyde (9/216) produced a remarkable come-from-behind victory over Devon Meadows (215) at Glover Reserve. The Panthers had the upper hand, requiring 22 runs for victory, with six wickets in hand, as the last bowl was delivered of the 33rd over. 22 runs; 43 balls, six wickets to do it with… the Panthers had this one sealed! Fast-forward 34 balls later and the Panthers were dead and buried as Ankush Rana (6.3-041-3) produced a match-winning spell for the ages. Rana transformed figures of 0/40 into 3/41 with three wickets for one run from the last seven balls that he bowled. The last of those trapped Jamie Cape (0) in front, giving the Cougars their second big win in eight days. The Panthers had lost their last six wickets for 20 runs. Chris Cleef (62 off 45) then got the Devon Meadows reply off to a flyer, taking 13 and 15 off overs two and three to have the home side

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

at 0/35 after the third. He then handed over to Jakeb McVicar (68 off 67), who shared a 57-run stand with Steve Robinson (27 off 30) and a 55-run union with Trent Delaney (20 off 27). But when Delaney and McVicar departed in consecutive balls, at the hands of Max Adams (8-0-54-4) and Daniel Lever (8-1-52-1) respectively, panic set in for the hosts. Nathan Worsteling (1) then became the fourth scalp for Adams, before Rana puffed out his chest and took revenge for his earlier belting. CCCA SCOREBOARD CCCA R10: Devon Meadows 215 def by Clyde 9/216, Tooradin 6/146 def Cardinia 9/143, Pakenham 3/142 def Kooweerup 140, Merinda Park 9/192 def Carlisle Park 9/190. Ladder: Tooradin 102, Kooweerup 102, Pakenham 78, Cardinia 54, Devon Meadows 54, Merinda Park 42, Clyde 30, Carlisle Park 18. R11 Fixture: Devon Meadows (5) v Pakenham (3) (Friday 11am), Tooradin (1) v Merinda Park (6), Cardinia (4) v Clyde (7), Carlisle Park (8) v Kooweerup (2).

Cranbourne top team scrapes home in absorbing classic CRANBOURNE BOWLS On a humid Saturday with temperatures reaching 28 degrees Celsius, Cranbourne teams returned to play the last five roundrobin games before finals. In Division 1 our Cranbourne 1 team took on our neighbours, Keysborough 1. Played in very good spirits this game had it all with skill, tactics, and very hard-fought rinks which you’d expect at this level. With both clubs winning two rinks each and following 83 hard fought ends, the scores were level. With nothing much between the teams, Cranbourne just edged out Keysborough for a very hard-earned win. This win puts the team back in calculations to avoid relegation and even make the finals… we await the next game. Best rink of the day was Skipped by Jay Tootell, who had a day out, along with his Lead, Chad Tootell, second Danny Meyer and third Gavin Wright winning their game by 13 shots. Great effort by the whole side and now onwards and upwards from here. Cranbourne 1 (83) defeated Keysborough 1 (81). + 2 shots and 14 points. Cranbourne 2 travelled to play top of the ladder Narre Warren 1 under the roof at the Panther Dome. cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

It was a ‘nearly’ day for Cranbourne on Saturday, who celebrated two wins from five matches in Picture: ROB CAREW Pennant Bowls. 375564 Narre Warren is undefeated and we were hoping our teams could inflict their first loss for the season. However, this was not to be and the Narre Warren team won all rinks handsomely to win the game by 81 shots…congratulations Narre Warren on an outstanding day of bowls. However, one game doesn’t make a season and the Cranbourne players will come back bigger and better. Cranbourne 2 (45) was defeated by Narre Warren 1 (126). - 81 shots and 0 points Cranbourne 3 hosted Noble Park 1 and

played on the back green. This game was always going to be a tough game for Cranbourne to win and thus is how it played out. Both teams won two rinks each, but Noble Park got up to win the overall by three points. Must mention best rinks being the team Skipped by Tristan Vorbach, third Neil Drummond, second Bryan Biasci and Lead Louis Magri who won the rink by 16 shots. Our other great rink was Skipped by Harry VanSoest, third Roger Roscoe, second

John Stanley and lead by Scott DePiazza winning the rink by 14 shots. Unfortunately, our two losing rinks just couldn’t stem the flow and we eventually went down by three shots after 84 ends. Cranbourne 3 (76) was defeated by Noble Park 1 (79). - 3 shots and 4 points. Cranbourne 4 travelled to Willow Lodge to take on their No 1 team. As for the previous Cranbourne teams we won two rinks and lost two to go down in the overall by four shots. Best rink was Skipped by John Kent, third Bill Sherriff, second Steve Bakker and Lead Neil Fotheringham who won by five shots. Cranbourne 4 (68) was defeated by Willow Lodge 1 (72) - 4 shots and 4 points. Cranbourne 5; 12-A-Side, travelled to Burden Park to take on their third side and didn’t they do just that. Playing some great bowls, this team won all rinks to come away winning the overall game by eight shots. Best rink of the day was Skipped by Steve Muhi, third Jacqui Warner, Jeanne Tomlin and Monica Peers who won by five shots. Cranbourne 5 (51) defeated Burden Park 3 (43). + 8 shots and 16 points. -Derek Maguire Thursday, 25 January, 2024

STAR NEWS 19

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Thursday, 25 January, 2024

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