CRANBOURNE
cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
Thursday, 8 February, 2024
/Cranbournestarnews
@StarNews_SE
40¢ Inc. GST
Tax shake-up looms
Where’s the fire station?
Road upgrade brings art
Nooy... not out 202
PAGE 3
PAGE 4
PAGE 18
SPORT
Kinder opens doors A new kindergarten funded by Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre (MPLCC) opened in Cranbourne North in January, where the staff says a safe and stimulating environment is provided to foster the holistic development of every child. Story page 10
Lianna, Jayson and Eden at the new kindergarten. 386856 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS
Response ‘failed’ By Violet Li A State Coroner has revealed a cascade of failures by the State’s family violence response centre and child protection service during an investigation of the death of a Casey resident who experienced numerous forms of family violence before she took her own life. Sara Kaber (pseudonym), aged 22 at the time of the death, was found in the backyard of her residence on the afternoon of 3 February 2018. She died due to complications from her injuries on 5 February. Born in Afghanistan, Ms Kaber married her husband in 2013 and entered Australia under a spousal visa in 2015. She had a five-month-old child and was living with her husband’s extended family of seven at the time of her passing. Her husband was present at the home de-
spite an active interim Family Violence Intervention Order that excluded him from the family residence. The coroner report exposed the long-term physical and mental family violence inflicted on Ms Kaber by her husband and his family. She suffered from suicidal ideation and tried to harm herself several times. One of the reported violent acts was on 26 November 2017 when her husband slapped her in the face in a carpark in Cranbourne. Ms Kaber left home with her child earlier after having a conflict with her husband’s family and being assaulted by a family member. The police arrested the husband, charged him with assault, and issued a Family Violence Safety Notice to protect Ms Kaber and her child from the perpetrator. Safe Steps and Child Protection were notified to provide services to Ms Kaber. Their re-
Thinking of
Selling?
sponse was found by State Coroner John Cain to raise several “concerns”. Safe Steps, Victoria’s only 24/7 domestic and family violence crisis response centre, supports victims and survivors with a range of services including accommodation. Unable to secure emergency accommodation, it arranged Ms Kaber and her child into a motel where she had “limited access to supports or practical services to care for a baby”. Ms Kaber left the motel after nine days, stating that she felt lonely and homesick and that she felt safe in the house with her husband alone and without her in-laws. The next and last time Ms Kaber contacted Safe Steps was on 25 and 26 January 2018, a week before her suicide, when she requested its housing assistance and was turned down. The crisis hotline referred her to a homelessness helpline and appeared not to conduct
any risk assessment. Coroner Cain pointed out the agency’s failures to offer Ms Kaber appropriate support while she was in emergency accommodation, to link her with mental health supports, to conduct risk assessments, and to provide her with appropriate services when she called them in January. Safe Steps’ internal review echoed the series of failures and noted that the case management provided to Ms Kaber was “reactive instead of proactive”. A delay by the agency in notifying Child Protection about her return to the family residence was discovered. Child Protection, the other major service involved, was also found to fail to link Ms Kaber with appropriate support such as InTouch, a specialist family violence provider for migrant and refugee women. Continued page 12
With Finning's NO SALE – NO CHARGE & SMART SALE platform YOU can't lose.
Visit our website
Here's your sign!
Call us any time (24hrs) and find out more NOW!
finning.com.au
T 5996 1200 enquire@finning.com.au 12662182-AA03-24
Family fun day Summer Sounds 2024 Summer Sounds 2024 will bring live, local music to Bunjil Place this month. On Saturday 24 February from 5.00 pm, Summer Sounds will once again light up the outdoor plaza as part of the Summer Stage program, with double headliners RVG and Jen Cloher, supported by Play Lunch.
To celebrate the opening of the new library lounge at Cranbourne West Community Hub, a family fun day will be held on Saturday 17 February from 10.00 am to 2.00 pm. There will be lots of free activities, a sausage sizzle and giveaways throughout the day. This is a free event and no bookings are required. For more information, visit the Connected Libraries website.
Presented by Music Victoria’s On The Road Again program, Summer Sounds brings an evening of music and entertainment to the south east. 2024 brings an extra special transformation to the space, with a full concert stage and temporary shipping containers providing weather shelter and food service areas to ensure a great experience – no matter the weather. Tickets are $25. For more details and to book, visit the Bunjil Place website. To support community members who might be considering running for Council, Casey is hosting some ‘Role of Council’ candidate information sessions. The sessions are designed to give community leaders and residents the chance to find out more about the diverse range of functions and services local government provides, the role of Councillors and to provide the resources required for candidates for the 2024 Local Government Elections. February online session Tuesday 27 February 1.00 pm – 3.00 pm
Role of Council information sessions The City of Casey will return to elected Councillors when local Council Elections take place in October.
March in-person session Tuesday 26 March 6.00 pm – 8.00 pm Bunjil Place, Narre Warren
Casey Rainbow Community Picnic Join us at the Old Cheese Factory on Sunday 18 February from 12.00 pm to 4.00 pm for a fun-filled relaxing day out celebrating our LGBTIQA+ community and allies. The Casey Rainbow Community Picnic will have something for everyone, including food trucks, live performances, art and craft activities and more. This is a free event. No bookings are required.
For further details and to book your spot, visit the ‘Council Elections 2024’ page on our website.
Solar solutions available for residents and businesses in Casey Provide feedback on a number of consultations currently open on our community engagement platform, Casey Conversations.
Council has teamed up with Solar Savers to make solar installation easy, affordable and reliable for residents and businesses.
• Casey Community Panel Expressions of Interest
Attend one of the upcoming information sessions to learn more about a switch to solar. February in-person session: • Monday 19 February • 6.30 pm – 8.00 pm • The Chapel at Old Cheese Factory, Berwick
• Smart City and Innovations Community Reference Group Expression of Interest Each session is free to attend however bookings are required. To book and for more information, please scan the QR code.
• Max Pawsey Reserve play space and carpark redevelopment Head to the Casey Conversations website to find out more or scan the QR code.
12666843-MP06-24
April online session: • Tuesday 16 April • 6.30 pm – 8.00 pm
• Berwick Springs Playground public toilet
2 STAR NEWS
|
Thursday, 8 February, 2024
cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
Tax cuts take centre stage By Ethan Benedicto Narre Warren shoppers have welcomed the changes to the stage three tax cuts as the issue looms as a potential hot button issue at the next election. Labor MP Julian Hill, who represents the Bruce electorate, has naturally supported his party’s stance. While the Opposition says it won’t stand in the way of the changes, La Trobe MP Jason Wood slammed the Prime Minister for going back on his word of not touching the stage three tax cuts. However, the Liberal MP said “the Coalition affirms its commitment to achieving lower, simpler and fairer taxes, exemplified by our support for reducing the 19 cent tax rate to 16 cents”. The changes, announced on 25 January by the Federal Government, will see low-income earners receive a larger tax cut than originally proposed. According to the Treasury Department, 13.6 million Australians are to benefit from the redesigned stage three tax cuts, as compared to its previous model which catered to only 10.8 million taxpayers. Effective on 1 July this year, the tax brackets for lower to middle income earners will be changing, with individuals earning $18,000 to $45,000 to have their tax rate reduced from 19 per cent to 16 per cent. Likewise, the next tax bracket of those earning anywhere through $45,001 to $135,000 will have their tax rate change from 32.5 per cent to 30 per cent. Essentially, more money in residents’ pockets allows for a little bit more breathing room, with local shoppers at Fountain Gate Westfield sitting on the fence between spending more or saving more. One shopper said that the changes will “allow me to be better with my money.” “Getting taxed makes me feel like ‘oh I can do whatever with my money since I’m not even earning that much’.” “But since I’m a uni student it would help a lot with organising what I need to pay for my
Labor MP Julian Hill for the Bruce electorate has voiced his support for the redesign. Picture: FILE studies and so on,” the shopper said. Other sentiments juggled between saving and spending, with one lady saying that “everything is so expensive at the moment”. “I think I’ll be spending and saving, but we’re always spending now and we’re not saving anything,” she said. The higher brackets have also changed, with those earning $135,001 to $190,000 being taxed at 37 per cent and anyone earning over $190,000 being taxed at 45 per cent. Bruce electorate MP Julian Hill recently released a statement saying that Labor’s tax cuts
“will provide a real cost-of-living relief to all 13.6 million Australian taxpayers without adding to inflationary pressures”. “In Bruce, the average tax cut will be about $1335 each year, and 89 per cent of taxpayers will receive a larger tax cut under Labor’s plan than under Scott Morrison’s,” MP Hill said. Legislated in 2018, the Treasury’s reasoning for the changes is revolved around the original stage three purposes, which did not cater to the economic impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic and other international conflicts. Prior to these events, further statistics from the Treasury detailed that the Australian economy was meant to be supported by strong global growth, with inflation and interest rates expected to be low. However, since these predictions hadn’t gone through the original intended effects, the government proposed changes to the stage three tax cuts. “Of course tax cuts alone will not fix the cost-of-living crisis so the government is taking action to make sure Australians are not paying more than they should for the things that they need. “A major inquiry has been launched into allegations of price gouging and the competitiveness of retail prices in the supermarket sector, led by the powerful ACCC,” MP Hill said. Low to middle-income households had felt more pressure from the cost-of-living crisis due to a lessened ability to accommodate for the rising prices of essential goods, such as food, healthcare and mortgage payments by going through their savings. The redesign is aimed to ease that pressure, with the current margins aimed at higher-income earners. “Labor is also adjusting the Medicare levy low-income thresholds so people in lower incomes pay less, or are exempt from, the Medicare levy helping more than one million Australians. “Labor’s tax cuts build on the billions of dollars of targeted cost-of-living relief that is already being rolled out. “This includes energy bill relief, cheaper medicines, strengthening Medicare, income
support payment and the largest increase to Commonwealth Rent Assistance in more than 30 years,” MP Hill said. Bracket creep is where one’s income growth causes that person to pay more tax each year but due to the effects of inflation the overall purchasing power is reduced. So with lower tax rates under the redesign, people are taxed less and have more money to keep up with the rising cost-of-living. Women will also see some large benefits from this change, since there are more women within the low to middle-income brackets as compared to the higher brackets. The redesign expected to produce a much larger increase in labour supply which is driven by an increase in the hours worked and the general participation of women that have a taxable income between $20,000 and $75,000. In total, labour supply will increase around 930,000 hours per week, the government said. The Coalition has since backed the stage three tax cuts as of 6 February, with Opposition leader Peter Dutton announcing that his party would be making attempts at amending the bill but would not interfere if those amendments fail. La Trobe MP Jason Wood echoed the same sentiment, stating that “the Coalition affirms its commitment to achieving lower, simpler and fairer taxes, exemplified by our support for reducing the 19 cent tax rate to 16 cents”. However, MP Wood had placed great emphasis on Prime Minister Albanese going back on his word of not touching the Morrison stage three tax cuts before and after the last election. “The Prime Minister’s lies and broken promises means that delivering the stage three tax reforms as they have been legislated is now impossible. “The Coalition emphasises its dedication to combating bracket creep and fostering aspiration, and notes the importance of keeping promises even in challenging circumstances.” For MP Wood, “the overarching assurance of the Coalition is a commitment to keeping promises as a cornerstone of responsible governance”.
Seven pairs of twins enrolled at Hampton Park SC
2024 BERWICK SHOW
Family Funerals
Pakenham 190 Princes Highway Ph: 5941 4888
12658638-AA02-24
12666899-AV06-24
6 Brunt Street Ph: 5996 6822
Drouin
cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
LANG LANG SHOW’n’SHINE & SWAP MEET Sun.11th FEB.
Celebrating 175 years together
Open H orse Show Monda y 11th M arch
Saturday 24th & Sunday 25th February Akoonah Park, Princes Highway, Berwick Proudly supported by
www.davidwbull.com.au
Berwick and District Agricultural and Horticultural Society Inc
A-Z plus more! Art, alpacas, cattle, carnival rides, cooking, craft, dogs, facepainting, fireworks, food, goats, horses, horticulture, motorbikes, photography, ponyrides, showbags, stage entertainment, trade stalls, woodchop.
Cranbourne
2 Porter Place Ph: 5625 2571
Seven sets of twins, back row, Kaiysah, Mikayla, Melanie, Mariahna, Jared, Desmond and Sienna; front row, Makyiah, Taya, Candice, Keira, Amberlee, Kaino and Shanita. Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS
0407 866 049
langlangshownshine.com
LAWN MOWER RACING H
WIT
12665948-MS05-24
to our school’s history.” HPSC’s administration has taken action to ensure that each twin is recognised as an individual, separating them into different mentor groups but keeping siblings in the same house group. This will hopefully allow each twin to develop individually, whilst also making sure that their parents can support them both by rocking their respective house colours on athletics days. The seven sets of twins are sure to leave an indelible mark on the school’s legacy, creating memories and friendships that will endure long after they graduate.
The Year 7 cohort of Hampton Park Secondary College (HPSC) is one for the books as seven pairs of twins are enrolled. Two sets of twins are identical with the other five pairs being fraternal twins. The unexpected phenomenon has sparked a sense of wonder and togetherness among both students and educators, promising a memorable class of 2029. College transitions leader, Brad Andrews expressed his amazement at the unlikely statistic, stating “In my years as an educator, I have never witnessed such a concentration of twins in a single year level. It’s truly a special occurrence that adds a distinctive touch
Visit Website & Facebook for details including competitions.
www.berwickshow.org.au
LANG LANG SHOWGROUNDS Thursday, 8 February, 2024
|
STAR NEWS 3
NEWS
Where’s the fire station? By Violet Li Communities have been disappointed by a failure to build a new fire station in Clyde North within the original estimated timeframes. They’re now calling for the rapid start of construction. Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) announced the site for Clyde North’s fire station nearly three years ago, which would be situated on the corner of Matterhorn Drive and Thompson Road. The station was proposed to cater to the growing community that needed a full suite of emergency services. Star News reported on 7 April 2021 that State Government representatives attended the unveiling ceremony of the chosen parcel of land, including Fire Rescue Commissioner Ken Block, Parliamentary Secretary for Police, Emergency Services MP Paul Edbrooke, Bass MP Jordan Crugnale, and Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards. FRV estimated that work was expected to begin in late 2021 and finish in mid to late 2023. Three years later, the construction has not commenced with the land sitting empty. United Firefighters Union delegate for Cranbourne Fire Station Sam Watterson said the failure to deliver the promised fire station posed operational difficulties to Cranbourne Fire Station, the nearest fire emergency service to the area. “It took a long time for Cranbourne firefighters to respond to incidents in Clyde North. In traffic, there can be a 15-minute drive, sometimes longer, up to 20 minutes,” he said. “Our standards are to be on scene within 7.7 minutes. The local volunteer brigades frequently fail to respond. It’s not their fault. “Additionally, it takes resources out of Cranbourne, that are there to protect the Cranbourne and surrounding areas, so it
Star News reported on 7 April 2021 that State Government representatives attended the unveiling ceremony of the chosen parcel of land, including Fire Rescue Commissioner Ken Block, Parliamentary Secretary for Police, Emergency Services MP Paul Edbrooke, Bass MP Jordan Crugnale, and Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards. 233699 is really difficult.” Mr Watterson said emergency infrastructure had to keep up with the growing rate of the Clyde North. “It is one of the fastest growing areas in Australia, so it’s just as deserving of having an adequate fire service as any other area,” he said. “People move to these areas, pay a high price for a new house, and they expect infrastructure to be in place to protect their investment and families. “Ambulances have responded to that growth, and they’ve put in a station.” A new ambulance has just opened in Clyde North after two years of planning and constructing.
No explanation was given to the community as to why that fire station hadn’t proceeded, Mr Watterson said. “They [FRV] need to come here and explain to the community why that fire station hasn’t been delivered,” he said. “I’m not sure what the reason is, but I would say that it’s likely a financial reason. I’ve noticed they’ve been busily building SES stations around Cranbourne and Clyde. “There’s a great lack of investment in the FRV at the moment, and you would have seen several news posts about our fleet crisis with vehicles that are not fit for purpose and constantly breaking down.” Berwick MP Brad Battin said the people
of Clyde North were again misled by Labor at election time to win votes, but the delivery to make the Clyde North community safer vanished. “There is a pattern when it comes to the treatment of the Clyde North community, this time it is a fire station that was promised and all the local Labor MPs had their smiling photos taken, but now they all duck for cover and are silent when it comes to explaining why they have failed to deliver,” he said. “Since 2018 the same can be said about the Clyde North Police station, another broken promise that was ‘confirmed’ would be ready in 2022 and all we have is a vacant block of land.” A spokesperson for FRV said planning for the Clyde North Fire Station was well underway. “After extensive stakeholder engagement the design has been signed off, with the City of Casey issuing a planning permit for the site,” they said. “In the meantime, FRV continues to work closely with CFA to ensure the local community is provided with a high level of service. “FRV will communicate a timeline for construction once it is established.” FRV expects the 2022-23 Annual Report to be tabled on the next available sitting day 8 February. FRV was unable to table the Annual Report in 2023 due to a delay in the Victorian AuditorGeneral’s Office (VAGO) completing the audit of our financial statements. A State Government spokesperson said the government was ensuring that Victoria’s fire services had modern, safe, and fit-for-purpose facilities to support firefighters as they worked to keep the community safe. “Fire Rescue Victoria is continuing to progress designs for a new career fire station for Clyde North,” they said.
Surefire permit denied By Emma Xerri Surefire Consulting has once again been unsuccessful in its attempts to receive planning approval for a multi-dwelling development in Hampton Park. The 61 Fordholm Road property, which has already been converted from a single storey detached house into three dwellings without approval, sought retrospective approval for the works, which was ultimately denied. Hoping to have this decision reviewed through VCAT, the applicant argued that the proposal meets the purposes of the Residential Growth Zone - Schedule 2 (RGZ2), as well as meeting the Casey Planning Scheme. Surefire also claimed that the reduction of one on-site car parking space was justified. However, at the hearing on 30 January,
VCAT member Sarah McDonald found “three small dwellings” was too “modest” for a growth zone, which allows housing of up to four storeys. “The proposal does not represent ‘substantial change’. “It is a modest change that is more reflective of a modest development that might be expected in either a General Residential Zone or Neighbourhood Residential Zone.” McDonald agreed with Casey that there was a limited number of higher-density growth zones in the municipality. “Underdeveloping land ideally suited for housing growth and change, which is supported by the provisions and policies of the Scheme, compromises the achievement of the planning outcomes sought and is inconsistent with the orderly planning of the area.”
A proposal for three dwellings was ruled by VCAT as too “modest” for this lot at Fordholm Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS Road, Hampton Park. 387206
FOR KIDS 6 MONTHS & UP!
starcommunity.com.au CONTACT US Phone: 5945 0666 ADVERTISING Visit starcommunity.com.au/advertise Email advertising@starnewsgroup.com.au Phone 5945 0666 EDITORIAL Email dailyeditor@starnewsgroup.com.au
Peter Rabbit
Visit networkclassifieds.com.au Email sales@networkclassifieds.com.au Phone 5945 0600 Published by Star News Group Pty Ltd ACN 005 848 108. Publisher/Managing Director, Paul Thomas. All material is copyright to Star News Group Pty Ltd. All significant errors will be corrected as soon as possible. Distribution PROUDLY numbers, areas and coverage are estimates AUSTRALIAN OWNED & only. For our terms and conditions please visit INDEPENDENT www.starcommunity.com.au
4 STAR NEWS
|
12651769-SN47-23
REAL ESTATE Email seren@starnewsgroup.com.au
Thursday, 8 February, 2024
Order now on aussietoysonline.com.au
Order now on aussietoysonline.com.au
cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
Mourning loved ones Swimmer search
By Violet Li A joint funeral of three Clyde residents and one of their relatives travelling from overseas who drowned at an unpatrolled beach on Phillip Island was held at the Bunurong Memorial Park in Dandenong South on Thursday 1 February. Hundreds of relatives and community members from Melbourne and overseas attended the farewell with devastated hearts. Kirti Bedi and Suhani Anand, both nursing students aged 20, as well as 23-year-old nurse Jagjeet Singh Anand, and their 43-year-old relative Reema Sondhi, lost their lives when they were swimming at the unpatroled Forrest Caves Beach that had a heightened chance of ripping. Mr Singh, a registered nurse with a heart of gold, saved many lives throughout his career. Ms Bedi and Ms Anand, both nursing students, planned to stay home and focus on their studies. Ms Sondhi came to Australia for a holiday to visit her brother’s family and was staying with them in Clyde. It was an excruciating scene at the funeral as family members sobbed and cried, overwhelmed by the loss of their loved ones. Life photos and videos of the four were screened, with their happy faces flashing between their hometowns in India and the beautiful coastline of Victoria. Attendants gathered around the open caskets and laid pedals on their lifeless bodies. One family member said in a eulogy that together they could honour their legacy and cherish the moments the family had shared. “The void has been created, which cannot be fulfilled,” he said. “May the time help us. As I say, the time in the days takes away the grief that is on their part. “Life has to prevail and continue even after
By Emma Xerri
Four people drowned at a Phillip Island beach last month. Picture: GENERIC/AAP IMAGE/DAVE HUNT our loved ones leave us. “And thanks to all the authorities, Victoria Police, all the people who stand by the family who suffered the loss in these hard times.” A cremation service followed the funeral
and their ashes would be taken back to their respective places in India. To assist with the families, donate at gofundme.com/f/phillip-island-tragedy-4-liveslost-pls-help
A 20-year-old Cranbourne man was still missing as of Wednesday 7 February after becoming caught in a rip off Number 16 Beach in Rye on Sunday evening. It is believed the man was swimming with two people, about 100m from the shore, when they were caught in the rip. Emergency services were called to the area off Browns Road and Tasman Drive at around 7pm, and a search of the area commenced with the assistance of the police Air Wing, Water Police, Lifesaving Victoria, Ambulance Victoria and SES units. The man and woman, both in their 20s, made it back to the shore and were in a stable condition at Frankston Hospital, while the Cranbourne man remains unaccounted for. The search for the man resumed on Monday but police said high winds and strong swells were making the task difficult. The incident was among a number of the significant incidents taking place on the weekend. Eight people were rescued at Cape Schanck, just 16km from Rye’s Number 16 Beach, with two of the swimmers requiring hospital treatment. Meanwhile, a man drowned on Saturday after large waves trapped him underneath his capsized tinny in Barwon Heads. A scuba diver also lost his life after being pulled unconscious from the water at Rye Pier on Saturday. Anyone who has information about the incident involving the Cranbourne man is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at crimestoppersvic.com. au
lifestyle meridian 12663885-HC06-24
cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
Thursday, 8 February, 2024
|
STAR NEWS 5
NEWS
Truck fuel of the future Dirty diesel may be on the way out as Cleanaway unveiled a demonstration of a heavy vehicle fuel made entirely of used cooking oil. The fossil fuel alternative from manufacturer Neste is dubbed ‘MY renewable diesel’ or ‘HVO100’. According to Cleanaway, the “100 per cent traceable and circular fuel” requires “no infrastructure modification and minimal capital investment”. And it is claimed to produce 91 per cent less greenhouse gas emissions than conventional diesel. A City of Casey Volvo FE 2020 waste collection truck and a Coles supermarket Volvo FM11 front-lift organics collection vehicle were among the customer trucks at a demonstration launch at Cleanaway’s depot at Dandenong South on 2 February. In partnership with the Federal Government and Cleanaway customers, the demonstration would be used to identify barriers and create a pathway for scaling in the fuel’s introduction. It involves Cleanaway collecting used cooking oil from cafes, pubs and restaurants. The oil is processed into feedstock and delivered to Neste to convert into ‘renewable diesel’ which is then deployed into Cleanaway trucks. “The use of HVO100 in Cleanaway trucks is part of our Blueprint 2030 strategy to reduce the carbon impact of our operations and increase circularity from the material we collect,” Cleanaway chief executive Mark Schubert said. “We’re committed to leading our industry with innovative and fit for purpose solutions that align with our customers’ goals while driving forward to support the achievement of federal emissions targets.” Casey chair of administrators Noelene Duff said the community should “keep an eye out for the bright blue truck operating exclusively
A Cleanaway garbage truck fueled by used cooking oil, rather than conventional diesel. on used cooking oil as it drives throughout Casey”. “This emission reduction initiative is another step in the right direction in council’s commitment towards zero net corporate emissions by 2030 in line with our Climate Action Plan.” Coles sustainability general manager Brooke Donnelly said the fuel would be used by a Cleanaway’s truck collecting organic wastes from supermarkets in South East Melbourne for the next six months. “It’s an excellent example of how we’re working with our suppliers to create a more sustainable future and achieve our sustain-
ability ambitions. “We look forward to learning about the results that we hope will drive change in the industry and fast-track our transition to a circular economy.” Neste’s head of Asia Pacific public affairs Steven Bartholomeusz said the demonstration was staged as the Federal Government was consulting on revising the Fuels Quality Standard to recognise renewable diesel as a fuel. “We hope that data from this demonstration project can provide insights into how renewable diesel can reduce emissions from heavy transport and industry.”
Bioenergy Australia chief executive Shahana McKenzie welcomed the “decarbonisation” opportunities of “drop-in renewable liquid fuels”. “Renewable liquid fuels are an essential piece of Australia’s decarbonisation strategy and will be crucial as a replacement for traditional fossil fuels used within major hard to abate sectors including heavy haulage, marine, construction, rail, manufacturing, mining and agriculture.” Cleanaway is also working with Viva Energy to power its first two hydrogen EV rubbish trucks, expected to be rolled-out in Geelong this year.
OPINION
LENSCAPE
SOCIALLY SPEAKING Most Ambulance Victoria patients in Cardinia Shire are being seen within the recommended 15 minutes, according to new data. Our readers had this to say. Annmaree Porter Unfortunately it’s not ambulance attendance time that is the problem. It’s the time each vehicle is ‘ramped’ at a hospital. They can not discharge a patient in their care until hospital staff take over or admission takes place. Which can be hours, leaving vehicle and crew off the road. The whole system at hospitals needs to be reviewed. Stanley Young Always have had a great response from the local ambos, just recently and I realise it was holiday time I waited like 50 minutes or more for one to arrive being no more than 2k from the station I asked had they been busy (2am), no we are stationed at Dandenong South, but thanks to the men my wife is now on the road to recovery. Laraine Max Papley Excellent wonderful treatment Christine Kemp Less than 10 minutes twice for me. Walker Lee Adriane I got told to find my way to emergency. Been a type 1 diabetic and having an infection
due to HS. I ended up finding my own way and had emergency surgery the next day. Ann Barnes Each time I’ve needed an ambulance they had been there within 15 minutes being a heart attack victim. Maxi Mitchell Be interesting to see what the time is so far this year. What used to take 10 minutes to get out of Pakenham has turned into 30 minutes. Carole Ann Within minutes last year, twice. Kelly Buntine Ten mins and a MICA at our door. Adrian Henstridge We waited four hours then got told to get in a taxi at 2.30am for our 18 month old who had been seen by the virtual ED and they called the ambulance for us because they saw it as urgent, very disappointed. Marilyn Rastall I’ve never had a problem when I’ve needed one. Within 20 minutes and I live in the hills. Mel Ellis Two-to-four hours with a dislocated hip.
THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN Thumbs up
Thumbs up
To the bus driver who gave cycling commuters a lift after their Pakenham-line train was cancelled.
To the boys that made the pool out of pallets and a tarp.
Thumbs up A Jacky Dragon lizard blends into a tree at Cranbourne Botanical Gardens’ Stringybark Picnic Picture: GARY SISSONS area. 375315
6 STAR NEWS
|
Thursday, 8 February, 2024
Thumbs down To leaving broken glass on footpaths.
To cricket-pitch curators - doing their bit to help a spate of big scores in South East cricket. cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
LIMITED TIME
Flexible pricing OFFER
Summerset Cranbourne North homes from $579,000* Our first Australian retirement village with premium aged care, Summerset Cranbourne North# is selling off plans now With over 26 years of experience, 37 villages under our belt and over 8,000 residents across the ditch, we’ve become pretty good at creating the kind of retirement community you want to live in. Summerset Cranbourne North# is a modern village with resort-style facilities that will redefine retirement living, with the reassurance that there will be a modern aged care home onsite. We have homes priced from $579,000 and flexible pricing options to help you secure your dream retirement home today.* The village is conveniently located with easy access to nearby shopping centres, public reserves and the freeway allowing for easy commuting to and from surrounding suburbs, plus it is just minutes away from the local golf club and the gorgeous Cranbourne Botanical Gardens. To find out more about our pricing options and to view plans and pricing, call the Sales Manager, 12663853-JB06-24
Leanne Heathcote on 03 7068 5642. Love the life you choose
Visit our sales suite today Open Tuesday to Saturday, 11am - 4pm 98 Mannavue Boulevard, Cranbourne North 03 7068 5642 | cranbourne.sales@summerset.com.au *Homes are sold under a lease to occupy and are subject to availability. Only Villa 138 left at this price. Flexible pricing arrangements are subject to a higher deferred management fee. Price and stock levels correct as at 2 February 2024. Exclusions apply. For full terms and conditions please visit summerset.com.au/flexiblepricing #Pending completion. Artist impressions, images and facilities are indicative only. SUM5693_FP
cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
Thursday, 8 February, 2024
|
STAR NEWS 7
NEWS
Casey crs muse on return By Cam Lucadou-Wells Casey’s sacked ex-councillors are weighing up comebacks ahead of council elections in October. Eight months ahead of the poll, ex-deputy mayor Rex Flannery has declared he’d run, with several others reportedly undecided. In 2020, Casey councillors were sacked by then-Local Government Minister Adem Somyurek during the early stages of IBAC’s corruption inquiry Operation Sandon. The inquiry report last year found former Casey mayors Sam Aziz and Geoff Ablett accepted more than $1.15 million in payments and in-kind support from developer John Woodman. They were found to promote Woodman’s interests in several key planning decisions at Casey without declaring their conflict of interest. It’s yet to be seen whether any of the excouncillors will face criminal charges. Unless convicted, they would be free to stand for re-election. Aziz, Ablett and Woodman have denied wrong-doing. Ex-deputy mayor Rex Flannery, who was not named in IBAC’s report and has a “clear
conscience”, was “definitely” going to run for re-election. But he may re-consider if some of his excolleagues also stand. “I don’t want to work with them again. It’s not right – my conscience would tell me to withdraw from council.” Any Operation Sandon-related prosecutions needed to be finalised before the October election. “Otherwise we’ll all have a cloud hanging over our heads.” A “bloc” of his ex-colleagues - who were allied to Aziz - should not be running in the elections, Mr Flannery said. “They’ve got a cheek or an audacity to do it.” Liberal ex-councillor Gary Rowe – who said he hadn’t been considering running for reelection - said he wouldn’t want to be “part of a circus” if Aziz and Ablett stood. ALP former mayor Wayne Smith – the longest-serving Casey councillor – told Star News that he was undecided. “I’ve not said yes or no.” Asked what would motivate him to stand for re-election, Mr Smith said: “I was cut off in my prime. I had a lot more to do. “It’s about trying to regain the city. The ad-
ministrators have not done a good job – the people don’t feel comfortable. “Driving around and looking at the city, it looks shocking ... the unmowed grass, the rubbish around the place. Someone needs to make sure they’re on top of it.” He called on the next council to get “back to basics – rates, roads, rubbish and infrastructure that have been neglected by an absent group of administrators.” When asked if ex-councillors would carry “baggage” from the IBAC inquiry, Mr Smith said there were “misconceptions” about what happened at Casey. “There were things said and not said that weren’t as they were reported.” In August, he opposed IBAC’s adverse findings that he’d not declared conflict-of-interests in planning decisions involving developer John Woodman. He declared the process “unfair” and that his responses supplying the “full context” didn’t appear in the final report. Former Liberal-member mayor Susan Serey reportedly texted a comment to The Age, that referenced the death of former Liberal mayor Amanda Stapledon during Operation Sandon. “I hope that if any of the former councillors are alive and haven’t committed suicide, that all of them run and reclaim the city back to
[sic] the people.” Smith said the text was “a bit strong-worded” but agreed with the sentiment. “I see where she’s coming from.” He says he’s not kept in contact with former Casey councillors, except for Liberal member Damien Rosario – who was not the subject of any adverse findings in IBAC’s report. “No doubt he is running. All of sudden he’s got more prominent,” Mr Smith said, adding that he himself had continued to be active in the community over the past four years. Rosario told Star News that he was “undecided” on whether to stand. According to The Age, Serey was also undecided while Rise Up Australia member Rosalie Crestani was reportedly “not ruling (it) out”. Former councillor Steve Beardon, who resigned in 2017, called for voters not to “return to the past”. “Are these former Cr’s even aware of the stink from tips, disgraceful public transport, cost of living pressure? “Casey needs a fresh start…not a return to the past. “I doubt they have a chance if they declare they are mostly membered to political parties. The community expect local councillors to be independent.”
‘Not a new issue’: Art targets Gaza conflict Murder By Nyibol Gatluak
Talented student Tina Saba is using art to express herself and raise awareness about the ongoing conflict in Palestine. The 21 year old from Narre Warren is currently studying a Certificate IV in Visual Art at Chisholm Institute Berwick. Her family has ancestral roots in the West Bank region of Palestine. They migrated to Australia in the late 1990s. “Although I was born and raised in Australia, I spent a lot of my life in Palestine with my family,” Ms Saba said. A proud Palestinian, she is one of three siblings. One of her siblings is still trapped in Palestine with her two young children amidst all the
unfolding brutality. “I fear for their safety every day, it is even difficult to talk to them on the phone due to the heavy surveillance of the Israeli government.” Through art, Ms Saba is hoping to spread awareness, educate others and debunk what she says is propaganda being spread about the conflict. Her latest artwork depicts a watermelon, which represents the Palestine flag. “People think this is a new issue and it isn’t. I have witnessed first-hand the violence towards Palestinians unfold most of my life.“ This started when Ms Saba was a young child and witnessed American colonists who were
Tina Saba, centre, celebrates her outstanding achievement award with friends. 8 STAR NEWS
|
Thursday, 8 February, 2024
brought into the West Bank terrorising Palestinian families. They allegedly displaced her family out of their home by planting landmines around their property. Ms Saba is keen to tell her story and make a difference in her local community. She recently won the Outstanding Achievement Award from Chisholm Institute last year, for her artwork dedicated to Palestine. Ms Saba believes it is imperative for the Australian public to become better informed about the conflict. She encourages people to research and become the cause for change. *Nyibol Gatluak is a student journalist at Monash University
charge over missing man By Kaitlyn Offer and Callum Godde, AAP A man has appeared in court charged with murder over the suspicious disappearance of a young Colombian national in Victoria. Michael Jeffrey Frankland, 49 from Mt Eliza, appeared in Melbourne Magistrates Court on Wednesday charged over the disappearance of 28-year-old Sergio Cuesta last September. Frankland did not apply for bail and was remanded to reappear in April. Mr Cuesta was last seen when dropped by a friend at a Jabiru Drive address in Chelsea Heights, 30km southeast of Melbourne. He had earlier been at a birthday dinner in the CBD, on the night of 16 September. A concerned female friend, who was also at the dinner, alerted authorities after failing to hear from him for five days. Police arrested two men on Tuesday over his disappearance. A 48-year-old Cranbourne man was released without charge. But on Wednesday afternoon the missing persons squad charged Frankland with murder. Three firearms, a pill press, various quantities of what appear to be dried cannabis and cocaine, cannabis plants, a crossbow and a conducted energy device were allegedly seized from a Mt Eliza property. After initial inquiries by local officers, Mr Cuesta’s disappearance was deemed suspicious and the missing persons squad took over the investigation. Prior to his disappearance, he had been living in an apartment on Queens Road and was subject to an expired student visa. He was also on bail in relation to drug offences and was known to have contact with people suspected to be involved in trafficking. Detectives remain keen to speak to anyone with information about his movements in the lead up to his disappearance. cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
We’re building big road projects near you and there will be disruptions
As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re easing congestion by building better roads in Melbourne’s south east. While we work this summer, road disruptions may affect your travel. What we’ve done
Works in progress
Opened the new inbound exit ramp from Princes Freeway to McGregor Road in Pakenham
– Over February, we’re placing the final layer of asphalt on Hall Road between McCormicks Road and Western Port Highway.
Upgraded the Hall, Evans and CranbourneFrankston intersection in Cranbourne West
– In Cranbourne, works are continuing to build new lanes and upgrade key intersections along Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road.
Upgraded four intersections on Western Port Highway – at Thompsons, Hall, Ballarto and Cranbourne -Frankston roads Built new lanes, new traffic signals and a new bridge over Peninsula Link to improve traffic flow and travel times on Lathams Road
– We’re also working to open the Rochester Parade intersection by late February and start upgrading the Camms Road intersection. – In Berwick, early works are underway to relocate utility services on Clyde Road. – There are ongoing works in Beaconsfield as part of the Station Street Level Crossing Removal Project.
While we work, disruptions could affect your travel Kenilworth Avenue, Beaconsfield
Hall Road, Skye
Until early Feb
Westbound detour between Station Street and Soldiers Road
Until Mar
Access to and from Brunt Road closed. Detour via Wattle Crescent
Until 9 Feb Closed between Western Port Highway and Atlas Drive 18 Feb to 1 Mar
Closed between McCormicks Road and Western Port Highway
Cameron Street, Cranbourne
Until late Feb
Closed south of BerwickCranbourne Road
McGregor Road, Pakenham
Until 4 Mar Closed between Webster Way/ Henry Road and southern Princes Freeway roundabout
Princes Freeway, Pakenham
Until 4 Mar Closed outbound exit ramp at McGregor Road
South Gippsland Highway, Cranbourne
Until mid 2024
Closed lanes between Cameron Street and Lineham Drive
Healesville-Koo Wee Rup Road, Pakenham
5 to 7 Feb
Closed to Pakenham-bound traffic between Ballarto and Greenhills Road
Camms Road, Cranbourne East
Mid Feb to Closed at Narre Warrenmid-2024 Cranbourne Road
Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne
cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
Thursday, 8 February, 2024
|
12666133-AA06-24
Check before you travel at bigbuild.vic.gov.au
STAR NEWS 9
NEWS
Dreams in limbo
‘Curse’ claim By AAP
By Violet Li Affected families by the collapse of the Victorian builder Montego Homes are reeling from losing their deposits and their dream houses in the Casey South region. South Melbourne builder Montego Homes went into voluntary administration in January, with Sam Kaso and Shaun Matthews of insolvency service Cor Cordis appointed as administrators to assess the best way to restructure or recapitalise the business. Key initial findings have shown that 63 homeowners are affected by the company not having appropriate insurance in place for deposit holders. According to the Victorian Building Authority, when a building contract is worth more than $16,000, builders are required to purchase Domestic Building Insurance (DBI) for their clients, which would cover incomplete or defective building works. By law, a builder cannot take any payment, including a deposit from the client, until the insurance is in effect and the client has been given a copy of the insurance certificate. Casey South is one of the regions Montego Homes has been active, with more than 50 out of its 171 sales listings fanning across Clyde, Clyde North, Cranbourne, and Cranbourne East. Uninsured creditor Nicole Clarke, who bought a block of land in Cranbourne East, has still been processing the news with a heavy heart. She lost $13,825, which took her over a year to save. “It’s not huge, but it’s decent enough to be upset about this because you can’t get it back,” she said. “Trying to buy anything at the moment in this climate is just ridiculous. Almost impossible. So, saving money for a deposit and then losing it is pretty devastating.” Ms Clarke signed the contract around late November in 2023 and was urged to pay for the deposits over and over in the following month. She eventually paid the 5 per cent deposit on 9 January this year and received an email from one of the directors Lachlan Lyndon saying thank you and wishing her a happy new year. “I am assuming everything is okay,” she said. “Then on 17 January, I found out that they had got into a voluntary liquidation.” Having missed the State Government’s Liquidated Builders Customer Support Payment Scheme that pays out the creditors of 16 collapsed builders during the last two years and closes on 29 January, she had to restart. However, she was hesitant to go out and look for another builder as she lost trust in the industry.
Locals are in limbo after another builder went into voluntary administration. “I don’t want this to happen to me again and have to restart all over again and re-save again,” she said. “I was thinking about selling it [the land]. “This is my first time buying a house. I knew it was going to be difficult, but I didn’t expect it to be this difficult.” Ms Clarke said there had to be harsher penalties for builders who skip the insurance. “These builders need to be held accountable for what they do,” she said. “There has to be some consequence to their action because we’re paying for it.” Paul Elsharouny, another uninsured creditor, lost over $15,000 from a deposit for his single-story house in Clyde North. He signed the contract in March 2023 and immediately paid the deposit. Ten months later, he was in shock when he discovered the collapse of Montego Homes through an email. “As soon they sign a contract with a customer and take a deposit, they should look at the price of some materials and they should purchase as much material as they can to avoid the surprise raise for the material cost. “But obviously they didn’t do that. One year later, when the land is due to be built, they find out that all material costs have been raised by 10 or 20 per cent.” Mr Elsharouny said the government failed to observe and audit those builders. “After what happened with Porter Davis last year, the government should have been
Picture: GENERIC
warned and put more strict laws in place to observe these builders, but this didn’t happen,” he said. “We lost our life savings, and we still need to continue with our life. “We still need to go to another builder and make a new deal according to the current price market, which is more expensive than when we did with our original company.” Shadow Minister for Home Ownership and Housing Affordability Evan Mulholland said Porter Davis should have been a wake-up call for Labor but the serious issues with domestic building insurance non-compliance clearly had not been addressed. “No Victorian should lose a home deposit because of Labor’s incompetence. Jacinta Allan must commit to extending the support scheme until the issues plaguing domestic building insurance are resolved,” he said. Shadow Minister for Planning James Newbury said Labor wasn’t doing enough to protect Victorians and their families from rogues. “Buying a home is tough. New homebuyers shouldn’t also be fearful of a building company collapsing, and losing hard-earned deposits, because the State Labor Government isn’t strong enough to stand up to dodgy behaviour,” he said. A government spokesman told The Age that a bill had been introduced to the Parliament to create tough penalties for builders failing to meet their DBI requirement. The State Government has been contacted for comment by Star News.
Developing their independence at kinder A new kindergarten funded by Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre (MPLCC) opened in Cranbourne North in January, where the staff says a safe and stimulating environment is provided to foster the holistic development of every child. Located inside the MPLCC, the kindergarten has sessions for three and four-year-old children available up to five days a week from 9.30am to 2.30pm. The centre also has daycare options from 9.30am to 2.30pm for up to five days a week. All the educational programs are guided by recognised early childhood frameworks. A spokesperson for the centre said each child would be valued, respected, and given the opportunity to make choices and decisions to develop their independence. “Our vision is to cultivate a love for learning that lasts a lifetime,” she said. “We believe in nurturing the unique potential of each child and laying the foundation for their future success in a supportive and engaging setting. “We believe in building a strong partnership with parents to ensure the success of each child. Regular communication and involve10 STAR NEWS
|
Thursday, 8 February, 2024
Michelle (centre manager) and Lucy (Kinder teacher) with kinder kids Anum, Lianna, Jayson and Eden. 386856 ment in kindergarten activities along with timely feedback are encouraged.” The kindergarten is currently accepting
enrolments for the upcoming academic year. For more information, contact the centre on 5996 9056.
Just before getting behind the wheel of a 19-tonne truck and killing four police, Mohinder Singh asked his boss to break a witch’s curse on him. High on drugs and short on sleep, Singh believed he had been visited by a witch and was having visions due to her curse. He told his trucking supervisor, Simiona Tuteru, because he was a church pastor. “I hadn’t had any sleep, I was seeing things, I thought I was cursed by a witch and I was traumatised from it,” Singh told the Supreme Court in Melbourne on Tuesday. The pair searched Singh’s truck for items a witch may have left, including voodoo dolls and pieces of hair. Tuteru then placed his hand on his worker’s head and told him: “In Jesus’ name I cast a spell out of you.” The Connect Logistics supervisor then allowed Singh to drive the semitrailer, telling him “you’re right to go now” after the prayer and asked him to drive one truckload, Singh told the court. Singh drove the truck down Melbourne’s Eastern Freeway, veered into an emergency lane and struck four Victoria Police officers. Leading Senior Constable Lynette Taylor, Senior Constable Kevin King and constables Josh Prestney and Glen Humphris, all died at the scene, on the afternoon of April 22, 2020. Tuteru texted another pastor after the prayer: “Just prayed salvation and deliverance with a driver this arvo, broke curses and witchcraft.” The details were aired in court during Tuteru’s pre-sentence hearing after he pleaded guilty to a heavy vehicle offence. Singh is serving an 18-and-a-halfyear prison term for the crash, which was reduced from 22 years on appeal after he agreed to give evidence against his former boss. He was brought from prison to give evidence to the court on Tuesday, where he took to the witness stand wearing a grey prison tracksuit. “I was deeply troubled by fatigue,” Singh said, about the day of the crash. However, Tuteru denies Singh told him he was tired before he drove the truck. Defence barrister David Hallowes SC accused Singh of fabricating his evidence to get a more lenient sentence in his appeal. “You knew by making a statement against Mr Tuteru that that might help in your appeal,” Mr Hallowes asked. Singh said he was telling the truth about his conversation with Tuteru, but accepted his undertaking to give evidence had helped him reduce his sentence. Prosecutor Matthew Fisher asked Justice James Elliott to accept Singh’s version of events, and said the lack of sleep was “part and parcel” of the conversation about the witch’s curse. He called for Tuteru to be handed a “substantial fine” for allowing Singh to drive before the crash, or a “lengthy” community corrections order. “This case comes down to one decision by one man,” Mr Fisher said. “Allowing him to get behind the wheel is a sliding doors moment - it should never have happened.” Families of the four victims attended the court, and Const Prestney’s brother, father and mother gave statements. “The night we lost him, I felt like I wasn’t there for him and I couldn’t protect him,” Alex Prestney said. “It’s February 2024 and we are still debating responsibility of how my brother and his colleagues were hit by a 20-tonne truck on the Eastern Freeway.” Justice Elliott will sentence Tuteru, who remains on bail, at a later date. He was initially charged with manslaughter, but those charges were dropped about six days before he was due to face trial. cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
THE LOWDOWN Q&A
with Royal Botanic Gardens Southern Brown Bandicoot outreach officer Eilish Roberts
What do you love most about your job? I feel so lucky to be able to work at the stunning Cranbourne Botanic Gardens. It’s also a joy to engage with so many different facets of the community to help save a beloved marsupial – the Southern Brown Bandicoot. What is something most people don’t know about you? I wanted to be an author growing up because I loved creative writing – it may still happen! Looking back at when you first entered your current role, what advice would you have given yourself? Don’t underestimate the power of simply having a chat! I’ve learned many insights, found opportunities, and formed some awesome partnerships from serendipitous conversations community members; you never know where it could lead! What has been your most memorable moment in your role so far? Hosting the Big Bandicoot Backyard at Cranbourne Gardens last year is certainly a favourite. It was a three-day event where the community came together to celebrate the species and learn how to help them thrive in the suburbs, complete with a giant bandicoot sculpture and giant sparkly poo to go with it (yes, bandicoots have sparkly poo…). What event, past or present or future would you like to witness? The Beatles’ last public performance on the Apple Corps rooftop. Which subjects did you enjoy at school? Science, English Literature and Japanese. Which five dinner guests would you invite to dinner? Let’s stick with the living – Harry Styles, Rebecca Solnit, Dodie, Graham Norton and Miranda Hart. Where is your dream holiday destination? Currently it’s Japan – I’ve been twice before
Eilish Roberts. 384066
THREE … new things to try to escape the hot weather
1
Tackle an escape room The hot weather can make anyone feel a bit ruffled, so what better way to channel that energy than into a high stakes puzzle. Put on your best detective coat (only if it’s highly ventilated) and attempt to escape the room while escaping the heat.
2
Hit up a museum Melbourne has no shortage of museums to wander through on a hot day. Whether art and history is your jam, or you’re more into film and even sports, there is an air conditioned museum for everyone.
3
Go ice skating There is no better way to combat the heat than to take to the ice. Grab your best knee pads, some supportive friends and family who won’t judge you for sticking to the barrier, and take to the rink.
Picture: LJUBICA VRANKOVIC
and am itching to return. What encouraged you to become a Southern Brown Bandicoot outreach officer? My background is in botany and environmental studies, as well as in science communication, presenting, and education. This role is a fabulous crossover in all these areas – engaging the community in conservation for the Southern Brown Bandicoot, working to improve habitat, and sharing the love for these remark-
able critters. I get to use my science brain as well as my creative side, which is a dream! What were you like as a kid? I was outgoing, loved learning, and never wanted to get in trouble! What’s one question you have never been able to get the answer to? Why hasn’t everyone downloaded the app iNaturalist to record their plant and animal (and bandicoot) sightings?
Retire to Casey Grange Village... From time-to-time selected refurbished villas become available for sale to new residents of Casey Grange Village, Cranbourne West. HURRY - don’t miss out! NO deposit. NOTHING TO PAY until the day you move in.
Book a tour with our sales specialist to discuss your retirement living in this friendly and welcoming community.
Freecall 1800 998 900
Villa 1
CASEY GRANGE VILLAGE > 75 EVANS ROAD, CRANBOURNE WEST
2
2
Availability and pricing correct at publication date. 5.02.2024
$635K 2
For more information about our range of retirement communities, visit: rcavillages.com.au 12668598-MS06-24
cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
Thursday, 8 February, 2024
|
STAR NEWS 11
NEWS
Response ‘failed’ Annelise Hickey was accompanied by Adolfo Aranjuez (left), MIFF member and host, and fellow director Caleb Ribates (right).
The audience watches on as Hafekasi plays on the screen.
Exploring short film By Ethan Benedicto With a run time of roughly 16 minutes, Hafekasi was able to deliver a powerful performance with messages of identity, personal growth and deep-rooted discrimination. Directed by Annelise Hickey, the film features Mona, a young half-Tongan girl and her white Australian mother, and has won multiple awards since its screening, such as the Tribeca 2023 Best Narrative Short Special Jury Mention and the MIFF 2023 Award for Emerging Australian Filmmaker. Other awards include the BIFF 2023 Award for Best Global Short Film and the SCAD Savannah Film Festival 2023 Award for Best Global Short Film: Beyond Identity. When it comes to shining light on issues such as that of identity around race and discrimination, Ms Hickey agreed that films can serve as effective mediums. “I definitely think that through film and stories or television, they’re a good way to express how different people live in the same country. “Films are a good way to explore, and for us to fall in love with characters and see things from a different point of view. “People don’t like being called out and it’s hard to do through art, but it’s still a way,” Ms Hickey said. Delving deep into the crises of finding oneself as a child, the film uses multiple methods to convey the message, through the vibrant colour palette reminiscent of 90s Australia, the use of sound and noises, and the shaky cam whose movement mirrored Mona’s feelings. The narrative is smooth and the story of
Annelise Hickey (middle), speaking to the audience during the Q&A session before the screening. Pictures: ETHAN BENEDICTO Mona, played by Izabelle Tokava, effectively encapsulates how a young girl grapples with who she really is, through familial interactions, through strangers and her own actions. Nothing is forced, not through the hands of Ms Hickey as director or through the character of the mum, who is played by Laura Gordon. Throughout the film Mona is left to her own devices, the mother allows space for her child to experience growth herself and never
intrudes or directs Mona’s feelings. Validation, comfort and peace are what embodied the actions of the mother, and is what allowed for Mona, though through a rebellious act, to discover and take the first step into the world of Tongan culture. The film unfolds softly on the audience, making itself clear of its direction and most of all, is a stellar representation of showing instead of telling.
From page 1 It did not refer her to culturally appropriate support despite the Child Protection Manual suggesting that multicultural services “can provide secondary consultations and case management to address cultural complexities and assist practitioners to work with families in a way which is culturally responsive”. Child Protection also failed to respond properly to the disclosures of family violence perpetrated by the extended family, the coroner found. After a home visit on 24 January 2018, Ms Kaber indicated to the agency that her mother-in-law was upset with her about Child Protection’s continuing involvement with the family and she did not feel safe meeting with the service at home. Aware of the situation, the agency did not undertake any safety planning and did not take any further action to address the family violence against Ms Kaber, the coroner found. Under the agency’s practice guidelines, practitioners are required to undertake a risk assessment to “determine the likelihood of ongoing or future violence towards the non-offending parent and their children” and work with other support services to develop a safety plan to reduce risk. However, Coroner Cain found that Child Protection did not take these steps and “lacked the insight and information required to adequately understand the risk posed to Ms Kaber and her child’s safety and provide meaningful intervention to support their safety needs”. Information sharing across services is also concerning as the evidence showed the agency did not proactively liaise with any of the services involved with Ms Kaber, except Safe Steps, or work collaboratively with those services to support her and her child, the coroner found. The coroner report stated that Child Protection had reported improvements in practice and understanding of working with families involved in domestic violence since this fatal incident.
Record-breaking intake: More than 120 interns sign up Monash Health has welcomed 125 junior doctors for medical internships, with the January intake the largest-ever cohort of medical interns. Interns were placed at Monash Medical Centre, Dandenong, and Casey hospitals across an array of units, including general medicine, mental health, paediatric emergency medicine, urology, and palliative care. They will be put through their paces in emergency departments, and surgical and medical wards, in the next stage of their training to become registered medical practitioners. Over five terms, they will rotate through a variety of units, spending 10 to 13 weeks in each. Deakin University graduate and new Monash Health intern Hinal Patel was inspired to take up a career in medicine by her uncle, who worked in healthcare in poorer communities in India. “I saw the impact he made on patients – they were very comfortable with him,” she said. Hinal was set to start her internship in general surgery at Monash Medical Centre and was looking forward to all the rotations that will follow. “I’m most looking forward to the entirety of the year – the process of growing my knowledge over that time. They say it grows exponentially,” she said. Another 2024 intern, Wing Kei Peony Chan was set tp start her internship in the mental health unit at Monash Children’s Hospital. After completing a Bachelor of Pharmacy 12 STAR NEWS
|
Thursday, 8 February, 2024
Monash Health has welcomed 125 junior doctors for medical internships. and then a Doctor of Medicine at Monash University, Monash Health was first on her list for an internship. “I chose Monash Health because they have a paediatric emergency rotation, which [is] super appealing to me,” she said. Peony set her sights on a career in medicine after her grandpa’s death. “I was very touched by how he was treated, and understanding the desperation of being a family member, I wanted to be there for others who might go through the same thing.”
Pictures: SUPPLIED
Monash Health’s commitment to reserving positions for international students was also an attractive feature to Peony, who came from Hong Kong to Australia to study. “My plan for the moment is to continue my career in Australia and see where that takes me,” she said. Acting chief executive of Monash Health Martin Keogh said the experience would provide opportunities to integrate into different medical settings and provide a solid foundation at the start of their careers.
Deakin University graduate and new Monash Health intern Hinal Patel. “Working at Monash Health is a calling for many of our people – an opportunity to provide safe, high-quality care and make a real difference,” he said. Medical education officer and intern lead Karen Yates said it would be a challenging, but rewarding year for the interns. “They are fully supported by Monash Doctors Workforce and Monash Doctors Education to ensure they reach their full potential,” she said. cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
FOCUS ON … EDUCATION
St Therese’s aims to develop a partnership between parents, teachers, children and the wider community, all working together.
Where every name is known St Therese’s School is one of the smallest primary schools in the Cranbourne area which allows the staff to proudly share that ‘every name is known’. We welcome diversity, with students attending the school from a wide range of cultures. Differences are embraced to create an inclusive school, rich from learning from one another. From the very first moment a child enters the school, they are invited to encounter God through interactions with students and staff within a calm and nurturing environment. St Therese’s School takes their motto from their
patron saint, Saint Therese of Lisieux, ‘Do all that you do with love’, and strives to ensure that each student grows in faith to be understanding and respectful of one another. Teachers at St Therese’s are focused on ensuring each child learns fundamental English and Mathematics skills to prepare them for their future. In addition, the school offers rich and diverse learning opportunities that include weekly classes in Visual Arts, Physical Education, Japanese and a Digital and Design Technologies program. At St Therese’s Catholic community we envisage a school where:
St Therese’s Primary School “Do all that you do with love”
St Therese of Lisieux
? An individual’s personal relationship with Jesus is nurtured within the tradition of a Catholic community that is prayerful, accepting and loving. ? The wellbeing of each member is nurtured through building positive relationships and respecting the dignity and talents of individuals. ? We are successful learners. Our school is a safe, harmonious and engaging learning environment. Everyone works together cooperatively and is responsible for their learning. St Therese’s aims to develop a partnership between parents, teachers, children and the wider community, all working together. We are
committed to connecting with the local community including our neighbour Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre. To learn more about what St Therese’s has to offer, contact the school on 5996 7525 to book a personalised tour, or visit the school’s website www.sttcbourne.catholic.edu.au We look forward to welcoming you and your family to St Therese’s Primary School. Principal: Felicity Broughton 131 Endeavour Dr Cranbourne North VIC 3977
NOSSAL HIGH SCHOOL - BERWICK A co-educational, academically selective government school for highly able students in Years 9-12
Unique Opportunities. Exceptional Futures. As one of only four Victorian Selective Entry High Schools, we offer a broad range of curricular and co-curricular experiences and programs, strongly influenced by the students themselves who have an active and authentic voice in the running of the school. We offer significant sporting, creative, performing, musical, community, cultural, social, and leadership opportunities to our students alongside a comprehensive academic study program.
St Therese’s Catholic Primary School is a welcoming and happy place where children are nurtured to become independent and responsible learners.
Applications for 2025 enrolment OPEN NOW
To learn more about what St Therese’s has to offer, contact the school on 5996 7525 to book a personalised tour, or visit the school’s website: www.sttcbourne.catholic.edu.au We look forward to welcoming you and your family to St Therese’s Primary School.
131 Endeavour Drive, Cranbourne North Victoria 3977 Telephone: 5996 7525 www.sttcbourne.catholic.edu.au cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
12667530-MS06-24
Principal: Felicity Broughton
http://nossalhs.vic.edu.au/
12667441-AV06-24
Visitors are welcome to attend school tours with the Principal, and information evenings are available throughout the year. We invite you to visit us.
Thursday, 8 February, 2024
|
STAR NEWS 13
FOCUS ON … EDUCATION
A ‘dynamic’ education Victoria’s first fully academically selective coeducational Government High School, and one of only four academically selective high schools in the state, Nossal High School has been purpose designed to suit an adult, academically focused and highly aspirational cohort of students. The buildings are high tech. and ICT rich, mirroring features and approaches usually found in universities. Nossal High School is committed to providing an innovative, inclusive and dynamic educational environment. We aim to challenge our students to be creative and critical thinkers with good communication skills and the resilience necessary to succeed in an ever-changing world. We aim to build their skills, self-confidence, leadership abilities and community spirit through a rigorous but rich and varied, curricular and co-curricular program. We want our graduates to be aspirational, ethical and responsible citizens who conduct themselves with humility and compassion. For further information regarding Nossal High School we invite you to visit nossalhs.vic. edu.au or book a place in one of our Principal run tours or at our upcoming Information Night. When you choose a Victorian Selective Entry High School, you are ensuring your child has the opportunity for an exceptional education at one of only four schools exclusively designed for academically talented students. As proud government schools, each school has a unique approach and a shared purpose in nurturing excellence in young adults from Years 9-12. For further information about Nossal and the other Victorian Selective Entry High Schools visit www.vic.gov.au/selective-
Nossal High School - a dynamic educational environment. entry-high-schools Applications for 2025 enrolment are open. If you wish to be notified when applications open, register your email address at selec-
tiveentry.acer.org/vic/apply . Nossal High School Tours Principal tours run from 9.30am on specific dates throughout the year. Bookings for these
tours are available at https://www.trybooking. com/ CFYUJ. Visit our website at www.nossalhs.vic. edu.au/enrolment-information/ for more information.
At Lyndale Secondary College, our mission is to inspire and equip the next generation with the skills and knowledge essential for thriving in ever-changing world. CLASS OF 2023 VCE RESULTS College DUX: Ciya Joseph – 95.55 ATAR 6.6% over ATAR 90 23% over ATAR 80 46% over ATAR 70 LSC School Median of 29
2025 YEAR 7, SEAL & SCHOLARSHIP ENROLMENTS NOW OPEN OPEN NIGHT – WED 13TH MARCH 12665834-AA06-24
Visit www.lyndale.vic.edu.au Call 9795 2366 for a School Tour Lyndale Secondary College | 14 Halton Rd, Dandenong North VIC 3175 | (03) 9795 2366 | www.lyndale.vic.edu.au 14 STAR NEWS
|
Thursday, 8 February, 2024
cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
FOCUS ON … EDUCATION
Helping your kids’ learning With school back, it’s easy to focus on the logistics – new school supplies, shoes and uniforms. But an early childhood expert says children need emotional and behavioural support to ensure a smooth transition into the classroom. Dr Elise Waghorn, education expert and RMIT lecturer, says children need supportive adults around them during school transitions. “For parents, this is a crucial time to be asking your children how they are feeling about going to school, are they nervous, and what are they excited (or scared) about. “Framing direct questions to the child like ‘You look a bit nervous this morning, did you need to talk?’ or ‘You seem a bit quiet after school today, did anything happen?’ instead of ‘How was your day?’ gives them the opportunity to open up. “Adults need to provide a calm home life for children to ease into school. “Avoid any unnecessary stress in their life. For example, you may need to stop any extracurricular activities in the first 6 months, so the child does not become overtired. “It is also vital that children have a consistent routine after school, so they do not become overwhelmed, and that they have a well-balanced diet, so they are getting all the right nutrients. “Some children may become more emo-
tional before or after school. Parents can help by giving their child time and eye contact, listening and being responsive. What might seem trivial to a parent, can be a big deal for a child. “Children might also require earlier bedtimes, as they will become more tired due to the busier schedule at school.” In the lead up, Dr Waghorn says parents should focus on talking positively about school and helping to prepare their children by: Highlighting the fun and interesting aspects to encourage an optimistic attitude towards school. For example, ‘You are going to make some wonderful new friends’ or ‘I bet your teacher can’t wait to meet you’. Helping to develop their child’s independence skills. Involve them in making their lunch, packing their school bag and getting dressed themselves. Encouraging their child to talk openly and express their emotions through prompts like ‘What made you smile at school today?’, ‘What made you laugh?’ or ‘Did anything made you sad today?’ “Finally, each child will approach the school transition differently. Therefore, parents should avoid treating all children the same.” So, give these tips a go and remember that many other parents are going through the same feelings and thoughts.
· · ·
Experts say you should try and avoid any unnecessary stress in your kid’s life as they go back to school. Picture: GAELLE MARCEL ON UNSPLASH
At Cranbourne Secondary College we are a respectful, responsible, learning community.
Join us on our
Open Evening Wednesday 20 March 2024 5.30 pm - 8.15 pm Open classrooms from 5.30 pm Information session 6.30 pm Formal tours conducted from 7.15 pm (after info session) Scavenger Hunt to go into a draw to win a $500 school voucher* Stawell Street, Cranbourne 3977 www.cranbournesc.vic.edu.au | 03 5996 3544 | cranbourne.sc@education.vic.gov.au
*To be spent at Cranbourne Secondary College 12667326-MS06-24
cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
Thursday, 8 February, 2024
|
STAR NEWS 15
Meet the Principal David Caughey My name is David Caughey, and I am very proud to represent the College and the wonderful community of Cranbourne. Our high expectations for achievement and success are focused on equipping students for a fulfilling life by developing their intellectual, social, emotional, and moral intelligence. The College values of Care, Learning, Community and Contribution are at the centre of our actions and drive our high expectations for learning and behaviour. Our emphasis on student learning also extends to how we teach and support students to take responsibility for their behaviour and actions. The College has been recognised for their outstanding work in relation to School Wide Positive Behaviour Support (SWPBS). The SWPBS framework focuses on teaching the behaviour and strategies to support students to meet the high expectations we share for achievement. At Cranbourne Secondary College we are a respectful, responsible, learning community.
12667327-MP06-24
Come along to our Open Evening on Wednesday 20 March 2024 to find out what Cranbourne Secondary College can offer your young person. We’re here for your future.
CRANBOURNE SECONDARY COLLEGE Stawell Street, Cranbourne Victoria 3977 Phone (03) 5996 3544 | Website cranbournesc.vic.edu.au
Pam Robinson Lyndale Secondary College, situated in Dandenong North, Melbourne, is a distinguished and forward-thinking secondary college with a proud history since its founding in 1961. Over the years, the college has remained steadfast in providing high-quality education to a diverse student body. Our commitment extends to cultivating a vibrant community that actively champions inclusion and celebrates diversity, fostering collaboration between educators and learners to instil essential 21st-century skills. Our school takes pride in its forward-thinking approach, boasting state-of-the-art facilities, including the only Victorian Government School Augmented Reality Immersive Technology Laboratory. This innovative space is where inspiration meets cutting-edge technology, shaping the promising futures of our students. At Lyndale Secondary College, our mission is to inspire and equip the next generation with the skills and knowledge essential for thriving in an ever-changing world. We’ve adapted our classrooms to cater to digital learners, featuring an Augmented Immersive Technology Classroom seamlessly integrating advanced technology into traditional learning environments. Aligned with the Victorian Curriculum and Senior Certificate, this immersive experience transforms abstract ideas into tangible learning, nurturing a profound understanding and passion for knowledge. Investing in both learning and well-being, we empower students with the tools to navigate current challenges and cultivate the innovation and leadership needed for tomorrow. Our Select Entry Accelerated Learning (SEAL) program offers high-achieving students a rigorous curriculum, individualized support, and guidance from experienced teachers, fostering a love for learning and positive environments. By joining the SEAL program, students unlock their potential, gaining a valuable education for future success.
12667328-AV06-24
We extend a warm invitation for you to explore Lyndale Secondary College by contacting us at 9795 2366 to book a tour. Join us in shaping a future of excellence for your child.
LYNDALE SECONDARY COLLEGE 14 Halton Rd, Dandenong North VIC 3175 Phone 9795 2366 | Website lyndale.vic.edu.au 202402059589_1-AV07-24
16 STAR NEWS
|
Thursday, 8 February, 2024
cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
Meet the Principal Fiona Williams
12667406-AV06-24
Every day, as she leads the team at Casey Grammar School, Fiona Williams nurtures a school community that strives for academic excellence while understanding the value of building strong and respectful relationships, and supporting student and staff wellbeing. Since being appointed Principal in 2020, Fiona has continued to build the school’s reputation while introducing innovative programs that capture young minds. These efforts, supported by the team at Casey Grammar School, have seen Fiona and the school earn national recognition. Fiona was named one of Australia’s Most Influential Educators by The Educator. The awards celebrate education leaders and changemakers who have made an impact on students, school communities and the education sector. They also recognise those who demonstrate innovation and creativity to drive Australia’s education industry onwards and upwards. Fiona has also been a Principal of the Year finalist in the prestigious Australian Education Awards. While enhancing facilities for the 1,000-plus students through a program of major building works, Fiona is also building a safe and welcoming environment where students can learn, explore and follow their passions from their very first day at the school. “Our exceptional teachers inspire students to be creative, curious and collaborative learners through programs which explore real world challenges and solutions,” says Fiona. “Our goal is to provide every student with practical, life-long skills to ensure they are ready for the world beyond school and to help each and every student to enjoy respectful relationships and embrace compassion for others.” To ensure students continue to enjoy the highest standards of education in the classroom, Fiona encourages staff and students at Casey Grammar School to be lifelong and curious learners themselves. This approach to life and learning is also one that Fiona follows. “We are very proud of our warm sense of community and of our focus on excellence,” says Fiona. “Together, these grow students with bright minds and kind hearts.”
CASEY GRAMMAR SCHOOL 3 new Holland Drive Cranbourne East Victoria 3977 Phone 03 5991 0800 | Website www.caseygrammar.vic.edu.au
Leanne Evans Leading Clyde Grammar School since the day the school opened in January 2020 has been a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Principal, Leanne Evans. With the support of the school community, Leanne has ensured Clyde Grammar is a welcoming, respectful place that encourages students to question, explore and discover their passions and strengths. “Our school radiates warmth, friendliness and a sense of calm,” says Leanne. “We have a number of values that are important and respect is number one — our learning culture is based on respecting each other. Another key element of the success of Clyde Grammar has been attracting teachers and staff with a genuine passion to work with children and to care for them. That has been paramount.” The co-educational school in Clyde North offers Foundation to Year 4. In Foundation to Year 2 the focus is on establishing strong literacy and numeracy skills and this continues in Years 3 and 4. The Junior School curriculum offers English, Humanities, Mathematics, Science, Languages Other than English, the Arts, STEM, Health and Physical Education, Information Technologies, Religious Education and Personal Development and Civics and Citizenship. “We deliver an academic program that embraces individuality, inspires curiosity and promotes a growth mindset,” says Leanne. “We encourage every student in our care to try their best and to learn from their mistakes. Clyde Grammar’s overarching mission is to empower each child to set personal challenges, believe in their abilities, achieve success and strive towards becoming the best version of themselves.
12667551-FC06-24
“Our school is a place where students want to be because they feel heard and valued. Every child is genuinely known and every child is supported to progress and achieve their very best.”
CLYDE GRAMMAR SCHOOL 110 Smiths Lane Clyde North VIC 3978 Phone 03 8903 4500 | Website www.clydegrammar.vic.edu.au 202402059589_1-AV07-24
cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
Thursday, 8 February, 2024
|
STAR NEWS 17
NEWS
Artworks transform road Five Indigenous artwork panels were unveiled in the green space on Cranbourne-Frankston Road on 22 January, as part of the Hall Road Upgrade. Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards joined the unveiling with Bunurong artist Adam Magennis. She said it was wonderful to see this new rest area on Cranbourne-Frankston Road transformed with Mr Magennis’ amazing artwork. “These newly installed art panels are a fantastic way to honour and celebrate the Bunurong people’s history in the southeast,” she said. Each of the five designs, designed to naturally weather and rust on the surface, are based on sketches of native flora by Mr Magennis before they were brought to life in partnership with local businesses Nuttshell Graphics and Western Port Laser Cutting. Over the next 12 months, Mr Magennis will return to the green space to paint the panels’ shadows onto the adjacent path, highlighting the different seasons in accordance with the Bunurong calendar, further adding to the artwork’s impact. These paintings will indicate where the sun sits during the seasons of the traditional owners of the land. The upgrade will also feature more of Mr Magennis’ artwork at a newly installed rest
Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards (right) is unveiling the Indigenous artwork panels with Bunurong artist Adam Magennis (left). Picture: SUPPLIED area between Edinburgh Drive and Taylors Road along the new shared walking and cycling path. These pieces, sitting on top of the hill on Hall Road, will be installed after major works
of the roadworks are completed in March. Major Road Projects Victoria (MRPV)’s support of Indigenous employment and businesses is a major part of our Program Delivery Approach (PDA), which ensures all MRPV con-
struction partners meet social procurement requirements to support Indigenous businesses, social enterprises, and jobseekers from across Victoria. The Hall Road Upgrade is on the home stretch of construction, having completed three of four planned major intersection upgrades across Cranbourne West and Carrum Downs so far. Signalised intersections have been installed at McCormicks Road, Western Port Highway, and the newly aligned Evans and CranbourneFrankston roads to add capacity, improve traffic flow, and create safer journeys for motorists and pedestrians travelling through Carrum Downs and Cranbourne. The project’s next major milestone will be the opening of two new traffic lanes along Hall Road between McCormicks Road and Western Port Highway, creating two lanes of traffic each way on this section. The project will also reopen Taylors Road with a new signalised intersection after an extensive rebuild to accommodate additional drainage. The Hall Road Upgrade works in unison with other completed and ongoing Victoria Big Build projects, such as the Lathams Road, Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road, Western Port Highway, and Thompsons Road Upgrades to improve infrastructure for the rapidly expanding south-east region.
WHAT’S ON Cranbourne West Library Lounge Family Fun Day
Berwick Farmers Market
We invite you to come along and join in the fun as we officially launch the Library Lounge to the Cranbourne West Community. Face painting, giant bubble, performers, storytimes, giveaways, sausage sizzles, and animal petting zoo Saturday 17 February, 10.15am arrival, with formalities and ribbon cutting from 10.30am – 11am, at Cranbourne West Community Hub, 4 Flicka Blvd, Cranbourne West.
The Berwick Farmers Market has been trading for 18 years and it represents the only genuine Farmers Market in the South Eastern Suburbs, by definition a genuine farmers market is predominately fresh local farm-origin produce and no craft. Resulting of customer demand a decision has been made to trade twice a month after years of trading on the second Saturday monthly, trading is now extended to the fourth Sunday. February markets are Saturday 10 and Sunday 25 February at The Old Cheese Factory, 34 Homestead Rd Berwick, 8am – 12.30pm.
·
Narre Warren & District Family History Group General Meeting A volunteer, non-profit group whose primary aim is to support both family and local history within the City of Casey and the Shire of Cardinia. It serves the communities of Narre Warren, Narre Warren North and East, Berwick, Harkaway, Pakenham, Cranbourne, Beaconsfield, and surrounding areas. The general meetings are not all online. President Jane will be sharing the many avenues in the Lorraine Taylor Research Room to begin your family or local history research or knock down a brick wall without using Ancestry or Find my Past. Cranbourne Library Centre, Wednesday 21 February 2024
·
Balla Balla Community Centre Located in Clyde North, the centre has vacancies in the following classes: Introduction to Cre-
·
Linda Sell, trading as Nar Nar Goon Fresh, an orchard located at Nar Nar Goon, grows and sells apples, pears, and plums, and has been going to markets since the mid-80s. Picture: SUPPLIED ative Writing, Conversational English, Yoga, Zumba, Playgroup, Balla Balla Bubs (0-12 months). Morning Melodies is back! First date for the year is 13 February. Share a morning of music, enjoy a cuppa, or scones with jam and cream, and make new friends along the way. Enrolments can be made online at 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. Day, short and long trips away via coach and flights, a weekly morning coffee club, monthly Saturday country pub lunches, monthly evening dineouts, weekly table tennis club, walking groups, seasonal daytime musical theatre outings, and more. Come along 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.
·
Cranbourne U3A We have commenced our classes and are happy that the new classes are proving to be very popular. Our Ballroom dance class has commenced and it is a lot of fun. You do not need a partner, just come along and give it a try. The Tai Chi class is also going well. We have room for new members if you are interested. Our usual art, music, calligraphy, quilling, knitting, sewing/patchwork, chess, Italian, and Table Tennis groups are all back and enjoying lots of laughs and good company. New members are always welcome. If you would like to join us pop into our rooms, we are open Monday to Friday from 10am to 3pm. Our website is u3acraqnbourne,org.au for more information. Our rooms are in the Cranbourne Library building - enter from the Casey Radio entrance next door to L’Arte Cafe.
·
from an outlet near you
12664292-KG07-24
18 STAR NEWS
|
It's FREE
Thursday, 8 February, 2024
SCAN TO FIND YOUR OUTLET starcommunity.com.au/find-my-newspaper cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
networkclassifieds.com.au Trades & Services V Electricians
Placing your classified advert is so easy...
SHEPHERD ELECTRICAL A GRADE ELECTRICIAN
Online: networkclassifieds.com.au (24/7) Phone: 1300 666 808 (Open 8.30-5pm Mon-Fri) Email: sales@networkclassifieds.com.au
Qualified & Licensed For prompt & reliable service No job too small • EV Car Charges. Lights, Power Points, Phone, & TV Points. CCTV. Rec 23156. Call for a free quote Mark 0401 523 330
Grow your business with
(include your name, address and phone number)
We accept payment by: VISA/MASTERCARD/EFTPOS
TRADES & SERVICES
(1.5% credit card processing fee applies. Cheques and money orders can be posted in or hand delivered to our local office)
Ask about our discounted ongoing advertising rates and how choosing more newspapers gives your advertising more impact and saves you money...
V Fencing & Gates
SAXON FENCING
From plumbers to pest control, carpet cleaning to building services, dry cleaning to computer repairs, lawn mowing and more, Network Classifieds has been connecting local businesses with the local community with our Trades and Services each week. 12435765-SN02-20
Deadline for all classifications is 11am Wednesday
1152285-PB36-14
V Air Conditioning
trical J.L. Hutt ERVleICcE 24 HshmOentUsR SE Rec: 17824
Be cool this summer
in all
Specialising efurbi • Entensions/R ations y Switches Electrical Install Upgrades /Safet • Switchboard FREE QUOTES small • House Rewires CC TV or big too No Job & • Phone /Data/ TV Repairs om.au te jlhuttelectr ical.c w. ww • Oven & Hot Pla ce Repairs • Hot Water Servi s • Security Alarm s • AC Installation
• Brivis Evaporative Cooling • Daikin & Rinnai Splits • Pensioner discounts • Evap & Split Service Specials 12522605-AV46-21
Jason 1300 64
REC 17042 PIC 38148 AU 06212
Palings, Pickets, Colorbond Fences & Gates Prompt and Reliable Service
Phone 0419 775 259 or 8751 4016
“Since advertising in the local News our enquiries have increased immensely and we continue to get great results” ă 'DPLDQ
Speak to our classified team and find out how easy it is to advertise. Start building your brand today and be seen every week in Network Classifieds Trades and Services.
C1101420-JO46-13
SUPPLY ONLY TRADE & DIRECT TO PUBLIC Unbeatable Prices on: • Paling Fencing • Colorbond Fencing • Picket Fencing • Sleepers • Steel “H” & “C” Sections • Hardware • Woven Fence Extensions • Posts & Poles • Gate Frames made to order
A H FENCING & TIMBER PTY LTD
4 698
24 Vesper Drive, Narre Warren Mon-Fri 7am - 3.30pm
Call 1300 666 808 12463531-SG40-20
V Guttering V Electricians
License No.43391
• SPECIALISING IN ALL TYPES OF CONCRETING/ CONCRETE PATTERN, SLABS • FOUNDATIONS ETC. • ALL DOMESTIC & INDUSTRIAL
NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL FREE QUOTE ANY TIME RING 9700 4378 C63804-BG25-8
Call Sam 0401 731 959 V Antennas
STAR STAR
Pakenham Gazette Berwick / Cranbourne / Pakenham Star News
Pakenham Gazette Dandenong Star Journal Endeavour Hills Doveton Star Journal Berwick / Cranbourne / Pakenham Star news
Andrew Craven Concreting www.andrewcravenconcreting.com.au Phone Andrew on
0408 585 508, 5998 1127 Support your local tradesman for ALL your concreting needs!
24 HOUR SERVICE
L&L ELECTRICS All Types of Domestic & Commercial Work
★
Pressure Cleaning/Solar & Window Cleaning Satisfaction Guaranteed from $165
V Kitchens
FREE DESIGN-CHEAPEST PRICE Specialise in: - Kitchens, vanities, laundries, wardrobes, storage.
★
For a free quote call: (03) 9191 6548 • 0423 595 388 Email: sales@lnkitchens.com.au Showroom: 4 Henderson Street, North Sunshine
Call Chris: 0416 079 689 - 5940 7264
ADVERTISE UNTIL SOLD*
POWERFUL VACUUM LEAVES NOTHING BEHIND
Call Jeff on
Jason 1300 644 698
GUTTER CLEANING
0411 314 104
t 6OJU 4JUFT t (BSBHFT t %SJWFXBZT t 1FSHPMBT t 1MBJO $PMPVSFE t 4MBUF *NQSFTTJPO t 'BVY #SJDL t &YQPTFE "HHSFHBUF C1085227-JO32-13
12619667-SM29-23
SAME DAY TV ANTENNA SERVICE
20% off Exterior Window Cleaning with any Gutter Clean
12564021-MS34-22
INSTALLATION / SERVICE / SUPPLY
J.L. Hutt Electrical
A & F CONCRETING
1198421-ACM37-15
12528315-DL51-21
• Split systems • Evaporative cooling • Air conditioning • Hot water service
12438941-CG04-20
SAM’S AIR CONDITIONING
12597361-JC14-23
V Concrete Products & Services
0488 816 557
9705 6288
Celebrations
www.fairbairns.com.au
FAST FRIENDLY EFFICIENT Phone 7am-8pm | installmyantenna.com.au
l Specia on Prices ond Colorb
section of Network Classifieds.
5998 7796
• 40 Years Family FR Owned & Operated QUO EE TES • 25 Year Warranty • Senior/Pensioner Discount #1 in CRANBOURNE
12612952-KG24-23
V Trades Business Profile
12601160-AI17-23
V Deadline
$
29 .00
• All advertisements must be pre-paid. For $29.00 you get a 4 line, ONE ITEM ONLY advertisement, restricted to “For Sale” or “Motoring” items only for private advertisers, run initially for 13 weeks or until sold. Additional lines will be charged at $3 per line per publication. • After your advertisement has run for 13 weeks you must call us each fortnight to renew it for a further 2 week period AND reduce the price of your item by a minimum 5% for items in the “For Sale” section or 3% for items in the “Motoring” section. This process may continue until you have sold your item. If we do not hear from you we will assume you have sold your item and your advertisement will not appear. • The sale price must be included in the advertisement and the only alterations you may make are to the PRICE of your item. • Business advertisements, rental hire, pets & livestock and real estate are not included in the offer. • The publisher reserves the right to decline any booking for the purpose of ongoing gain. Run my advert in: 2 papers - $7 extra 3 papers - $14 extra 4 papers - $21 extra 6 papers - $30 extra
ADD A PHOTO FOR AN ADDITIONAL $8.00. 12593772-AA11-23
cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
Thursday, 8 February, 2024
|
STAR NEWS 19
NEWS
Position description value TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS IAN ASH
Having a documented and agreed perspective on the role between manager and employee can head off many potential issues, Ian Ash says. Picture: GABRIELLE HENDERSON ON UNSPLASH spective on the role between manager and employee can head off many potential issues especially regarding ownership as noted above, but there are many other benefits that can be derived as well.
General Classifieds
Plumbing
V
V
1 HOUR EMERGENCY PLUMBING
SEWER BLOCKAGES – MACHINE CLEANED
1158529-PB42-14
ESTABLISHED 30 YEARS STANDARD RATES ON WEEKENDS gjlawplumbing.com.au 7 DAYS 0419 136 181 - 0419 136 151
ECONOMY TILING All Bathroom Renovations • Bathrooms • Toilets • Kitchens • Decks • Water proofing • Walls and Floors
C1072232-JJ4-13
Tiling
V
SPOT CASH paid for estate jewelry, gold, opals and loose gems. For an obligation free assessment call 0427 699 396
V V
Wanted
Massage Therapists
ADVERTISERS, in this section are qualified practitioners and offer nonsexual services.
Employment
Pets & Services
V
Anyone advertising a puppy, dog, kitten or cat in Victoria for sale or re-homing will need a source number from the Pet Exchange Register and a microchip identification number. It is now an offence to advertise unless the source number and microchip identification number is included in the advertisement or notice. For further information, call 136 186 or visit animalwelfare.vic.gov.au
Free Quotes
Call 0432 550 066 or 8707 5522 V
Tree Lopping/Surgery
Joey’s Tree Services 12403296-RC44-18
No Job Too Big or Small Storm Damage Specialists All size Removals & Pruning Block Clearing Experts Stump Grinding & Mulching Firewood / Mulch Sales Fully Insured | Pensioner Discounts
Find local work in the Best Price Guaranteed
Employment section of Network Classifieds.
Free Quotes & Free Call. Joey 1800 205 544 | 0404 114 113
General Classifieds Garage Sales
SUBURB
ESS EET ADDR
STR
HAVING A CLEAN UP OR DECLUTTERING YOUR HOME? Advertise your GARAGE SALE here
$
CALL 1300 666 808
6cm (H) x 3cm (W)
or email sales@networkclassifieds.com.au
20 STAR NEWS
|
Thursday, 8 February, 2024
Only 33.00
12644936-SM44-23
V
Positions Vacant
V
ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE
12423634-SN31-19
Trades & Services
A well-defined Position Description provides clarity for anyone moving into the role. It necessarily forms a great basis for a job advertisement if the role is vacant and is going to be advertised internally and/or externally
Telephone Sales Representative at
Network Classifieds!
Motoring
Gardener
V Are you a persuasive communicator with a passion for sales? Are you looking for a flexible, casual, or part-time role that allows you to showcase your skills and earn some extra income? Look no further! Network Classifieds, a leading online and print classified advertising platform serving multiple mastheads across Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, and NT, is seeking enthusiastic Telephone Sales Representatives to join our dynamic team. About Network Classifieds Network Classifieds is at the forefront of connecting buyers and sellers across multiple regions in Australia. With a strong online and print presence, we help communities find the perfect deals, services, and opportunities. As a Telephone Sales Representative, you'll play a crucial role in driving our sales efforts and expanding our network. What You'll Do • Engage with potential customers over the phone to promote our advertising solutions. • Build and maintain strong customer relationships. • Understand customer needs and provide tailored advertising solutions. • Meet and exceed sales targets and performance goals. • Collaborate with a motivated and supportive team. Requirements • Strong communication and interpersonal skills. • Confidence in making outbound sales calls. • Motivated, goal-oriented, and results-driven. • Ability to work independently and as part of a team. • Previous sales or customer service experience is a plus, but not required. How to Apply If you're ready to take on this exciting role with the flexibility you desire, we want to hear from you! Please send your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your relevant skills and why you're interested in joining Network Classifieds as a Telephone Sales Representative to Sue Hall, Classified Advertising Manager, at sales@networkclassifieds.com.au. Join us in helping our diverse communities connect, buy, and sell through effective advertising solutions. Be a part of the Network Classifieds team and make a difference in the world of classifieds!
Situations Wanted
Required 1 day per week ongoing work. Phone: 0427 699 396 Positions Vacant
NEED NEW STAFF?
12565959-HC35-22
Sometimes the simplest of things can have immense value and perhaps because these things are so easy to do, they can get either overlooked or postponed as something to work on when there is a spare moment, which of course there never is. One such business item that comes to mind is the humble Position Description or PD. Simply put, a good Position Description should define the bounds of responsibility of a specific business role. One of the reasons that these often don’t exist is that a manager may well assert that ‘everyone knows their role’ but in practice it is not unusual for a boss and a team member to be out of synch here, especially when it comes down to ownership of specific areas within the position. If they are written at all, many Position Descriptions just define the tasks to be undertaken but the problem with this is that over time tasks may change and different systems, tools and/or processes may need to be employed. If this is the case, then the PD will require ongoing maintenance and update. However, although tasks and tools may change, the responsibilities within a role generally do not, so if the PD is written with regard to these, it needs to only be written once or at least require only minimal update. At first sight, it would seem that the only purpose of a Position Description is to define the role for the person actually operating within it and while this is obviously a key objective, there are many other benefits that derive from having such a document. Apart from anything else, having a documented and agreed per-
(although it is very important to note that any job advertisement should not read exactly like a PD since the role itself should also include a level of selling!). This should be essential to anyone involved in recruitment for the position and if well written, also reflects well on the professionalism and organisation of the hiring business itself. Of course, it’s always possible that the role could be filled from within, and since the PD should provide a complete picture of the expectations of the position, internal applicants can easily determine their suitability for it. Although potentially contentious, I hold a firm belief that Key Performance Indicators or KPIs (i.e. those key measures used to assess performance of an incumbent in the role) should be kept quite separate and documented elsewhere. As noted above, if well-written, a PD should clearly define the boundaries of the role and require little or no change over its lifetime. However, KPIs will be different every time – targets will inevitably change as will the associated timeframes and so these should be captured in their own document. This separation keeps things clearer, simpler and easier to manage for everyone. Finally, the good old ‘less is more’ adage applies here and so generally a position should not need to be more than a couple of pages in length. The first page should describe the role at a high level and then define the specific responsibilities. It is useful to structure these so that similar aspects are grouped together and bullet lists will do much to simplify understanding. The second page can then be used to describe the specific skills, qualifications and personal attributes required for the role in order that a good personality fit can be achieved. Ian Ash, ACC, AInstIB Managing Director OrgMent Business Solutions - www.ombs.com.au
Fill your position online www.networkclassifieds.com.au V
Professional
DISCRIMINATION IN ADVERTISING IS UNLAWFUL The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 1995 makes it unlawful for an advertiser to show any intention to discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy, race, age, marital status, political or religious belief or physical features, disability, lawful sexual activity/sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS status or on the basis of being associated with a person with one of the above characteristics, unless covered by an exception under the Act. As Network Classifieds could be legally liable if an unlawful advertisement is printed, Network Classifieds will not accept advertisements that appear to break the law. For more information about discrimination in advertising, contact your legal advisers or the Equal Opportunity Commission.
Buy, Rent & Sell in the
Real Estate section of Network Classifieds.
12667087-MS05-24
cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
SPORT
Risk-free Nooy cashes in By David Nagel A return to what he knows best has propelled Cardinia (3/446) opener Alex Nooy (202 not out) to the individual highlight of his career as the Bulls racked up a huge score against Carlisle Park at a slow Hunt Club Oval on Saturday. Nooy joins his former skipper Neil Barfuss as the only two first XI players at the Bulls to make a double-century after an epic 80-over vigil that contained 19 fours. The 29-year-old shared a blockbuster 244run partnership with Travis Wheller (132), who struck his second century of the season – and his own career-best score – to rubber-stamp Wheller’s credentials as one of the best allrounders in CCCA cricket. Nooy’s journey to his epic innings has been an intriguing one. His previous highest-score of 143 not out came in 2016/17, a season before he put his name in the spotlight with an incredible knock against Emerald in November 2017. Chasing 107 off 22 overs to claim outright points, Nooy hit 10 sixes and nine fours on his way to 103 not out. The Bulls’ chase was all over in 8.2 overs! “I think so,” was Nooy’s succinct response to the question; was Saturday’s double century the best innings of his career. “The hundred at Emerald always gets spoken about but, to be honest, that was probably the worst thing that happened to my cricket, scoring that hundred so quickly. “Since then, I’ve tried to score 100 off 50 balls all the time, but yesterday was back to the grind; back to the grind of when I was making 500 or 600 run seasons. “The ground was big, but quite slow, so we did a lot of running, but I had a clear head and that helped with my patience, I think. “I had success early batting that way, but the last few years I’ve definitely tried to become something I’m not. “I’ve been overly aggressive; and when you are overly aggressive you give chances. “That’s cost me since the Emerald game; you think you can do it all the time…but that’s definitely not the case in cricket.” The classy left-hander said his phone had been running hot since his magnificent innings; which hadn’t fully sunk in yet and was not yet fully appreciated by the man himself. “Not really to be honest, but I’m getting a lot of messages with people congratulating me on getting the 200,” he said. “It feels weird; it feels like getting 180 or 190 almost seems bigger, but low 200’s just doesn’t seem real. “But I’m super-pumped about it; and
Alex Nooy was back to his brilliant best for Cardinia on Saturday, cracking a career-high 202 not Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS out against Carlisle Park. 311879 wouldn’t have got there without my teammates. “Certainly Hynesy (Jacobus Hynes), he came out in over 63 or 65, something like that, and if I didn’t have him over the last 15 or so overs, I wouldn’t have got through. “I was done by 60 overs, sitting on 120 or 130, and I was content with that; because it’s been a long time between drinks for me. “The relief getting to 100 was crazy, a great buzz, but he told me to keep going and to not waste the opportunity. “I didn’t take a lot of risk all day; scored a lot along the ground, so thought I may as well keep pushing on with that style of play.” Nooy said the rapid emergence of Hynes, and continued brilliance of Morteza Ali and Wheller; and provided a safety-blanket this year. It was a comforting tool that he was keen to dispense with on the weekend. “I don’t have massive expectations anymore; with Trav, Matt Welsh, Hynesy, he’s come
good this year, and Morteza, and that takes the pressure off and probably lowers your expectations. “I sort of feel like I’m covered if I take a risk and go out, but on Saturday I thought, ‘today’s my day. “I took the leg-side out of my game; probably scored 20 percent of my runs there, but a lot was through the off-side. “If you play across the line, you give chances, don’t you?” Nooy was rocked early in his innings; struck on the collarbone by Vikings’ opening bowler Jaan Balasuriya who surprised him with a shock short ball at a much quicker pace. But Nooy marched on, sharing partnerships with Ali (38), Welsh (18), Wheller and an unbeaten stand with Hynes (36 not out). It was incredible day in CCCA Premier Division on Saturday, with five legitimate stars of the competition choosing the same day to post career-best scores. Bulls’ Nooy and Wheller were joined by
Pakenham’s Chris Smith (210 not out) and Tooradin pair Cal O’Hare (164) and Josh Lownds (116) on an amazing opening day of two-day cricket. Nooy put his usually feisty self to one side to praise his long-term opponents for their achievements. “I’m genuinely happy for those blokes,” he confessed. “Early doors you do a bit of sledging and don’t see eye to eye at times, but we’ve played for a long time now and all shared success. “We’re ruthless when we cross the white line, me as much as anybody, but I genuinely respect those players. “It probably makes it sink in more, looking at Smithy, being impressed by his innings and then thinking, ’hang on, I’ve done the same thing on the same day’. “If I didn’t make runs and I saw Smithy do that, I’d be thinking, ‘how did he do that’. “Just thinking about it now, it’s definitely made it more special sharing a big day with those types of quality players. “I respect those blokes; they all score heavily…and it clicked for us all on the same day.” Nooy, who smashed his way through the 4000 run-barrier (4139 at 29.57) on Saturday, agreed that being a young father had changed his perspective on the game. “There’s something to it you know…you hear it all the time, even in international cricket,” he replied. “Even after the game the boys were saying, ‘you have to come back for a drink’, but I wanted to get home and see my son. “It definitely changes your perspective about what’s important in life. “I’ve got a 16-month-old, and cricket’s on the backburner now; I’ve actually missed games this year and been okay with that when I wouldn’t have been in the past. “I love the blokes I play with and have a very competitive nature; that keeps me in the sport, but I’d be content to hang them up when the time is right. “I just want to make sure the club is in a good position before I make that decision.” CCCA PREMIER DIVISION R12: TWO-DAY (DAY ONE) Merinda Park v Pakenham 8/367 (Chris Smith 210 not out, Bevin Corneille 4/82). Kooweerup v Devon Meadows 9/228 (Trent Delaney 67, Jakeb McVicar 55, Luke McMaster 4/40, Joel Anderson 3/33). Carlisle Park v Cardinia 3/446 (Alex Nooy 202 not out, Travis Wheller 132). Clyde v Tooradin 5/399 (Cal O’Hare 164, Josh Lownds 116, Nick Shannon 3/117).
· · · ·
Junior netball relationship breaks down on the brink By Marcus Uhe The junior netball landscape in the South East for season 2024 has been thrown a curve ball just weeks ahead of the first centre pass being thrown after a breakdown between the South East Premier Netball League (SEPNL) and Outer East Football Netball (OEFN). After a joint statement announcing that the leagues would be joining forces in 2024 to provide a junior netball competition made up of both SEPNL and OEFN clubs on 16 January, OEFN announced on Monday 5 February that it had decided to not partner with SEPNL for 2024, sighting issues with SEPNL’s governance structure and a lack of affiliation with Netball Victoria. “Following numerous meetings with internal and external stakeholders Outer East Football Netball are not satisfied that the governance structure in place and as proposed by the SEPNL group is workable, nor do we feel comfortable with the current state of the intended incorporation, particularly SEPNL Office Bearers also holding official roles within participating clubs,” the OEFN’s statement said. “Added to the fact that there is nine weeks to the start of the season and the SEPNL cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
Outer East Football Netball and the South East Premier Netball League will not run a combined junior netball competition in 2024. Picture: SUPPLIED group is no further advanced with their affiliation with Netball Victoria, we have come to the decision to not partner with the SEPNL group for the 2024 season in the junior netball space.” Lani Mannays, president of the SEPNL, is also President of Berwick Netball Club, while
vice president of SEPNL, Dean Ziesler, is the current president of Beaconsfield Netball Club. SEPNL is aligned with Netball Victoria but is not affiliated. OEFN said it would remain open to working with Netball Victoria and SEPNL to establish a competition from 2025 onwards, and stressed that the upcoming junior season would not be compromised by the decision to not partner with SEPNL. “(OEFN) will continue to pursue a junior netball competition for clubs in the South East as we stated following our Competition Structure Review in August 2023. “This decision does not have any impact on Outer East FN’s A, B, C, D and 17U Blue netball competitions in any way, as they follow the Senior Football fixtures released at the beginning of December 2023.” Mannays said she fears that clubs will lose faith in the SEPNL based on the OEFN’s statement, stating that the League’s governance is above board and has followed legal requirements. Through the implementation of an underlying committee with representation from all six SEPNL clubs, Mannays is confident that
any fears of conflicts of interest involving League and Club officials has been alleviated. “The only thing that they are questioning is who runs it, but we have been completely transparent about it from the beginning,” Mannays said. “We can’t step away from Berwick and Beaconsfield at the moment, because we were voted as presidents at the AGM before this started. “I think if we were trying to hide, that would be a different story, but we haven’t from day one, and if we weren’t mitigating it by giving all of these clubs a voice, that would also be another issue.” Mannays said SEPNL will still aim to run a junior netball competition this season to ensure that junior netballers have a place to play in the South East without the travel associated with OEFN clubs. “We just want the kids to play; ultimately we will do whatever we have to do to make it happen,” she said. “We’ve got our teams picked, our selections, Berwick and Beaconsfield are really strong clubs, we’ve got all of our teams filled. “We’ve got the community backing us so we’ve got to do what we can for them as well. Thursday, 8 February, 2024
|
STAR NEWS 21
SPORT
Riley Siwes got the big wicket of Triyan De Silva on a day won by Dandenong West. 386709
Pictures: ROB CAREW
Triyan De Silva looks to launch one over the fence.
Bulls take the upper hand By Jonty Ralphsmith Dandenong West (2/44) has edged ahead at the halfway mark in the battle for premiership favouritism against Heinz Southern Districts (149). The Bulls sent HSD skipper Craig Hookey back to the sheds inside two overs of its Turf 2 Dandenong District Cricket Association clash, with Peter Atkinson setting the tone with the ball. The veteran pace bowler didn’t concede a run off his first three overs, with two early wickets putting the onus on established players Brent Patterson and Triyan De Silva. The first six scoring shots being boundaries was indicative of both Anthony Brannan’s unashamedly attacking captaincy and the quick outfield at KM Reedy Reserve. Runs started flowing as both looked set for a long stay; partnership batting the key on a rare hot and fatiguing day for bowlers across the southeast. So tight was Atkinson and offside-dominant was Patterson that Brannan at one stage set an 8-1 offside field, but the Cobras opener continued finding gaps and keeping the score ticking along.
Malinga Bandara was the pick of the Bulls. At the other end, De Silva was typically punishing when he went hard, a lift over square leg for six off Nuwan Kulasekara highlighting his form. Just as that pair looked like wresting momentum back, though, Patterson holed out on the leg-side boundary to spinner Malinga Bandara. It was a relative procession for the visitors from there. Bandara set a trap to get Scott Brown soon
thereafter and also deceived Anuda Akmeemana, Jett Kearney and Liam Jansen to finish with 5/43 off 18 overs. In between that, leggie Riley Siwes, who copped tap last week, got the big wicket of De Silva lbw and built pressure in his 10 overs. The middle-lower order showed less resistance than in previous weeks for HSD, bowled out for 149. Needing to face 27 overs to finish day one, the dismissals of Matt Collett and Nathan Power had the Bulls on the ropes early before Shaun Weir (31 not out, off 83) and Brannan (8 not out, off 60) batted for stumps, Dandy West currently 2/44 off 27. Meanwhile, Keysborough has put itself in a position to threaten Parkmore’s quest for finals. Led by a gritty 46 to Christo Otto, the Knights reached 166, with Anant Singh and Hennadige Fernando also making handy contributions later in the piece after opener Anir Motupalli took the shine off the new cherry. Lefty Dilum Sisantha continued his strong form for the Pirates with three wickets but, with his team missing its big-hitting skipper due to suspension, the game is in the balance. At Parkfield, spinner Nick Jeffrey spun a
web around Narre Warren, taking 5/12 off his 17 overs to help bowl the Magpies out for just 88. A 50-run opening partnership set the platform with the blade, with the hosts 22 runs behind with seven wickets in hand, which will enable the Bandits to chase an outright win. The other game remains reasonably in the balance, with Cranbourne having bowled Lyndale out for 135 and sitting at 5/97 at stumps. Despite needing just 39 to win with five in the shed, the Eagles will know there is still work to do, having lost six wickets early on day two needing a similar number of runs to win against HSD in round five. Harsaroup Singh, one of the overnight not out batters, was the pick of the bowlers, picking up three wickets at an economy rate of under two. Lyndale must win to keep its finals hopes alive. Day One Summary: Parkfield 3/66 v Narre Warren 88, HSD 149 v Dandenong West 2/44, Cranbourne 5/97 v Lyndale 135, Parkmore v Keysborough 166. Ladder: Dandenong West 52, HSD 45, Parkfield 45, Cranbourne 36, Parkmore 32, Lyndale 30, Narre Warren 21, Keysborough 15.
Strong win as Tootel comes up trumps for Cranbourne CRANBOURNE BOWLS Cranbourne teams seeking to play finals had a pretty good day of bowls on Saturday. We had three teams playing at home and two away. Cranbourne 1, playing on the front grass green, took on Mulgrave Country Club 2. In a good close game of bowls, all players did their very best but, in the end, Cranbourne was too strong and took the overall points by winning three rinks to one. Best rink of the day was skipped by Jay Tootel, with third Gavin Wright, second Danny Meyer and Lead Chadd Tootell winning by 12 shots. Cranbourne 1 (86) defeated Mulgrave Country Club 2 (79): + 7 shots and 16 points. Cranbourne 2 took on Burden Park 1 at their home ground and ran into a raging storm. Burden Park was ready to play and took apart our team easily by three rinks to one. Best rink by us was skipped by Steve Hickson, with third Terry Byrnes, second Barry Thomas and Lead Gwen Scott winning their rink by one shot. Cranbourne 2 (57) was defeated by Burden Park 1 (99): -42 shots and 2 points. Cranbourne 3 travelled to Churchill Waverley Golf to take on their number one team. Did they do a good job, you bet they did, winning by three rinks to one. Best rink was skipped by Tony Collins, with third Bill Sherriff, second John Stanley and Lead Kristi Hickson winning by the barest of margins…one shot. Cranbourne 3 (84) defeated Churchill Wa-
·
·
·
22 STAR NEWS
|
Thursday, 8 February, 2024
Best rink of the day was skipped by Robbie Sorensen, with third Bruce Harper, second Olive Stanley and Lead Michael Schwab winning their game by 24 shots. Cranbourne 5 (77) defeated Noble Park 3 (39): + 38 shots and 16 points. MIDWEEK PENNANT On a glorious day for bowls Cranbourne had two teams playing away and two teams playing at home. Cranbourne 1 travelled south towards the beach to take on the powerful Parkdale 1 team at their home ground. In an enthralling game both sides endeavoured to get the upper hand, but it was Cranbourne who eventually triumphed even though Parkdale won two rinks to one. Best rink was skipped by Nick Arnold, with third Peter Elgar, second Barry Graham and lead Loui Magri guiding the team to victory. Cranbourne 1 (52) defeated Parkdale 1 (50): + 2 shots and 12 points. Cranbourne 2 played at home and took on Willow Lodge 1. Both teams were looking for a win here as it would help consolidate our ladder positions. Well, what a game and what a day. Prior to lunch Willow Lodge shot out of the boxes and playing some good bowls had the Cranbourne teams under pressure with their three rinks holding leads of 14 shots, 10 shots and 9 shots. Following the break, a transformation came over the game and our rink that was down by 14 got back to only lose by one shot. The rink that was down by nine got in
·
Karen Hickson sends one down for Picture: ROB CAREW Cranbourne. 375564 verley Golf 1 (55): + 29 shots and 16 points Cranbourne 4 played at home on the synthetic and took on Moorabbin 4. These two teams are currently second and third on the ladder and they battled out in the heat all the way to the very end. Winning two rinks each, Moorabbin weathered the storm better than Cranbourne and took the overall win by six shots. Best rink was skipped by Steven Boyd, with third Gerry Dudink, second Kath Dudink and Lead Brian Turton winning 24-16. Cranbourne 4 (70) was defeated by Moorabbin 4 (76): - 6 shots and 4 points. Cranbourne 5 played at home on the back grass green against Noble Park 3. For the second week in a row this team has played some great bowls to win all three rinks and take the overall by 38 shots.
·
·
front by one shot before finishing all square. Our team of Skip Tony Collins. third Derek Maguire, second Lesley Deal and Lead Kristi Hickson just worked away at their opponents lead and eventually got up by four shots to give the team the overall game and majority of points. Cranbourne 2 (68) defeated Willow Lodge 1 (65): + 3 shots and 12 points. Cranbourne 3, also playing at home, took on Mulgrave Country Club 5. Winning all three rinks, Mulgrave took the chocolates and the points as they were just too good for our lads. Best rink for Cranbourne 3 was skipped by Brian Caddell, with third Dermott McConville, second Monica Peers and Lead Jeanne Tomlin finishing within two shots of their opponents. Cranbourne 3 (40) was defeated by Mulgrave Country Club 5 (64): - 24 shots and 0 points. Cranbourne 4 travelled to Keysborough to take on Keysborough 4 in the 6-A-Side game. Winning one rink each, the home team proved too strong and got up to win by two shots. Cranbourne 4 (37) was defeated by Keysborough 4 (39): - 2 shots and 2 points. We can only wish our teams all the very best for the next round. Also, I’d like to thank our supporters and fellow members who were supporting Cranbourne 2 and 3…the players really appreciate it. -Derek Maguire
·
·
·
cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
SPORT
Beaconsfield’s Kobe Shipp is among the Casey signings. 356635 Picture: JAZZ BENNETT
Star signings By Jonty Ralphsmith
Australia’s best pacer, Leap To Fame, will line up in Saturday night’s $100,000 Group 2 Cranbourne Cup. 387826
Picture: SUPPLIED
Leap To Fame in cup By David Nagel Harness racing royalty will descend on Cranbourne on Saturday night with Australia’s best pacer - Leap To Fame - set to contest the $100,000 Group 2 Cranbourne Cup (2550m). The champion Queenslander has been at the top of his game in recent times and confirmed his superstar status by winning the iconic $500,000 Group 1 Hunter Cup at Melton on Saturday night. That triumph followed a run-away victory in the Inter Dominion Final in mid-December, when trainer-driver Grant Dixon guided Leap To Fame to a famous home-town victory at Albion Park.
Leap To Fame’s Hunter Cup win was his 32nd from just 42 starts and lifted the five-year-old’s career earnings to over $2milion. Dixon, and owners Kevin and Kay Seymour, plan to use the Cranbourne Cup as a stepping stone to further glory. Following the Cranbourne Cup, Leap To Fame will head north to New South Wales to contest the $100,000 Newcastle Mile on February 23…earning qualification for his final goal of this preparation. No horse has won the ‘big three’ in harness racing - Inter Dominion, Hunter Cup and Miracle Mile - in the same season. Leap To Fame will have his shot at history in the $1million Miracle Mile at Menangle
on March 9. Dixon said Leap To Fame was now earning support right across the nation, and not just from his native Queensland. “At home, the crowds really get behind him, it’s unbelievable, but he had a lot of support there tonight as well,” Dixon said after the Hunter Cup win. it’s just a great thrill to be a part of his journey. “This is what you do it for; you keep doing the babies hoping to get one like this.” Leap To Fame’s appearance in the Cranbourne Cup is a major coup for the club and a ringing endorsement for the move to a new slot.
Swans batters digging in for the journey By Marcus Uhe Casey South Melbourne’s batting line up heeded their skipper’s request for big scores and more runs this week in a much-needed return to form against Melbourne University in Victorian Premier Cricket. Luke Shelton told this newspaper last week that a return to pre-Christmas form with the bat would be the key to arresting a three-game losing streak that saw the Swans slide from top spot to fifth in January. An unbeaten 153 from opener Ashley Chandrasinghe and a swashbuckling 97 not out from Lachlan Sperling delivered on that mandate, helping the Swans reach 5/371 at the close of play at University Main Oval, with the opportunity to bat-on next week. It’s Chandrasinghe’s third hundred of the campaign, to go with three further half-cen-
turies, taking his season tally to 680 runs at an average of 68, keeping his name firmly in the mix for a return to the Victorian side. Chandrasinghe formed meaningful partnerships with Ruwantha Kellapotha (20), and Chris Benedek (43) in a reminder of the quality he brings to the Premier Cricket competition. Where he played his natural anchoring role at the top of the order, Sperling took full advantage of the platform that had been laid, crunching his 97 off just 59 balls. His innings featured 14 fours and two sixes as he and Chandrasinghe put on 157 for the sixth wicket. With the Students struggling at 13th, the Swans have been presented a golden opportunity to boost percentage and Net Run Rate which could have a vital impact on finals seedings.
Lachlan Sperling hit a quick-fire 97 off 59 balls for Casey South Melbourne on Saturday. 231267 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS
Casey Demons have confirmed several arrivals and re-signings as preparations for the 2024 season ramp up. Locals Mitch Sybkowski (Beaconsfield), Andrew Green (Cranbourne) and Kobe Shipp (Beaconsfield) have all put pen to paper. Sybkowski crosses from Frankston VFL, where he played 14 games in 2023 and got some time in the midfield. Green’s arrival is the latest chapter in a remarkable rise from the Northern Territory, while fellow defender Shipp arrives after a strong season in the Talent Pathway where he was a regular for Dandenong and represented Vic Country. Lysterfield junior Kai Windsor, the brother of Melbourne draftee Caleb, has also put pen to paper following an injury-riddled season for Box Hill, as has Dingley local Caleb Lewis. The marquee recruit so far is Leo Connolly, who has seven games of AFL experience with St Kilda, with his speed an asset for the Dees. Youngsters Brayden La Planche (Eastern Ranges), Oscar Van Dam (Tasmania Devils) and Eddie King (Richmond Junior Football Club) are other recruits the Dees have secured. Van Dam hails from the same local club, North Launceston, which coach Taylor Whitford steered to back-to-back premierships in 2018-19. The loss of stalwart midfielder Jimmy Munro to Cora Lynn, and addition of several emerging talents, has Casey set to enter the new season with a much younger list. The club, however, is confident in the leadership of skipper Mitch White and believes Roan Steele can take a step forward with his footy to help fill that void. Ned Moodie, Ziggy Toledo-Glasman, Max Gregory, Tyler Edwards, Ryan Valentine and Charlie Peters have all re-signed for the season, with several more spots still up for grabs. Meanwhile, Cora Lynn premiership coach David Main has been promoted to midfield coach, while Pakenham’s Tom O’Loughlin joins the coaching panel. Casey’s practice match schedule and VFL fixture will be finalised soon, with round one set to be played on the weekend of March 23-24.
Panthers brave but still on the hunt for elusive victory By Jonty Ralphsmith Disciplined bowling almost saw Dandenong steal victory against Geelong, which appeared to be cruising in the women’s Vic Premier Cricket competition. The Panthers batted first and put 6/180 on the board, Geelong appearing in control of the chase until the death overs. Needing 23 off the last 36 balls, the Geelong batters, both whom were established at the crease, were unable to find the boundary which saw the game reach the last over, which Cardinia’s Brooklyn Diwell was entrusted to bowl. cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
Unfortunately it was a formality by that stage, her skipper needing to bring the field up and the first ball going to the fence. On a day where the Panthers managed only two wickets, Bhanuka Mahendran was the pick of the bowlers with 1/24 off 10 overs. Jessica Matin was the prime batter who helped Dandenong stay in the game at the halfway mark, scoring 54 off 81 with Sophie Strickland also playing a nice hand of 34. Dandenong’s search for an elusive win continues this weekend against Plenty Valley.
Sophie Strickland played a part in the middle-order with the bat. 368258 Thursday, 8 February, 2024
Picture: ROB CAREW |
STAR NEWS 23
Become a Berry Street foster carer In our community, some children are not always able to live with their family.
Enquire today berrystreet.org.au/fostercare
Ph. 1800 816 037
24 STAR NEWS
|
Thursday, 8 February, 2024
12633882-JC37-23
Become a foster carer and support a local child at a crucial moment in their life.
cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au