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Thursday, 15 February, 2024
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Renters feel the pinch
Dads ride to fight cancer
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SPORT
Destructive storm
The roof of a car port was picked up by the wind and flew over the property’s house to stop just clear of Leppitt Road. Kerri only moved from Officer to the rolling hills of Leppitt Road less than a month ago. The last thing they expected was sections of their house becoming airborne. Scott was in the car port when it violently gave way, prompting him to run for cover. The roof’s tumble damaged another section by the car port, but thankfully left the main
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part of residence damage free. The council has been contacted for removing the roof off the Leppitt Road. Though the storm brought a major inconvenience to the beginning of their renovations, they remain chipper and are thankful to be one of the few to still have power. Continued page 2
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Car port flies in storm Drivers going through Leppitt Road would have seen what looked to be a roof resting awkwardly right on the kerb going up to Upper Beaconsfield. This is the roof of a car port which was picked up by the wind and flew over the property’s house to stop just clear of the road. The residents of the property, Scott and
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Pakenham and surrounds experienced significant damage and many parts are still without power as a storm which brought severe winds hit Melbourne. The storm that passed through Melbourne on Tuesday 13 February had recorded wind gusts over 120km/h - according to Weatherzone reports - and resulted in about 540,000 lighting strikes within a 600-kilometre radius of Melbourne. The storm hit Pakenham and surrounds in the afternoon, joining the hundreds of thousands across the state who spent the evening without power. Emerald SES was among the state’s busiest units, with 206 callouts overnight. Pakenham Road was closed off at the end of Army Road in the afternoon as a felled tree blocked off the road and damaged powerlines. Traffic lights for the intersection of Army Road and Princes Highway were down but came back online on Wednesday morning. Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) said they received more than 3040 calls for assistance between midday on Tuesday to 9am the following morning. Electricity provider Ausnet’s Outage Tracker showed thousands within the local area without power with no estimated time set for power to return as of Wednesday mid-morning. According to a Facebook post posted at 9.30pm on Tuesday 13 February, about 261,000 Ausnet customers were left without power following the storm. “A combination of extreme temperatures, strong winds and thousands of lightning strikes have caused damage to poles, wires and other electrical infrastructure,” an Ausnet spokesperson said. “As the weather event is still passing through the state and across our network, we anticipate that repairing the damaged network will take multiple days. “We will have a better understanding of how long restoration efforts will take over the next 24 hours and we will communicate updates with our customers via our Facebook page, direct SMS and media outlets.” If you are a life support customer, please activate your emergency plan and call the life support priority line anytime on 1800 818 832. If you require emergency services, call the SES on 13 25 00 and stay away from fallen or damaged wires or assets and assume any wires are live.
NEWS
Destructive storm damage From page 1
Trees blocking Doyle Road in Pakenham Upper. Pictures: COREY EVERITT
Damage adjacent to the car port.
Traffic being managed through a damaged power line on Pakenham Road after a tree fell.
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The roof of the car port was originally here, above the cars, before it would fly across and over the house to Leppitt Road.
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NEWS
Rental pain hitting home A recent survey on rental affordability and stress reveals Pakenham is one of the top spots where renters are feeling the bite in a tough rental climate. The latest iteration of the Rental Pain Index by Suburbtrends, as of February 2024, reveals the suburbs where renting is toughest by weighing the factors of average rental increase over a 12-month period, how much income is going to rent and the vacancy rate. The freshly updated report continues to deliver on Suburbtrends’ commitment to unravelling the intricacies of rental market conditions, uncovering that an overwhelming majority of Australian suburbs are now grappling with severe rental distress. Pakenham scored sixth in the top 25 worst suburbs for renting with a Rental Pain Index Score of 96. This score comes from an average rental increase in the past 12 months of 13 per cent with 33 per cent of income on average going toward rent and a vacancy rate of 0.49. This is not the only South East suburb to make the top 25 for rental pain, Cranbourne sits at 15th with an index score of 94. Cranbourne had an average rental increase of 14 per cent in the last 12 months with 29 per cent of income going to paying rent and a vacancy rate of 0.4. Kent Lardner, who is behind Suburbtrends, underscores the gravity of these findings across the country. “Our latest report unveils a scenario where the fabric of Australian rental living is under unprecedented stress. With states like Queensland and South Australia witnessing over 75 per cent of their suburb groups mired in extreme rental hardship, the financial burden on Australian tenants has intensified like
Picture: ON FILE
Pakenham is in the top 25 suburbs for experiencing the worst ‘rental pain’ in the state. 387659 never before,” she said. Lardner urges policymakers to adopt innovative strategies in response to the index’s findings. “As we step into 2024, the Rental Pain Index not only highlights the severe challenges faced by renters across Australia but also serves as a
call to action for out-of-the-box thinking from our policymakers. “Observing that over 6 per cent of Americans reside in mobile home villages compared to less than 1 per cent of Australians living in caravan parks, it’s time to broaden our perspective.
“In an era where premium quality prefabrication offers rapid, cost-effective housing solutions, our focus should shift towards exploring these faster and more economical alternatives to address the current housing crisis. Innovative policy solutions are crucial now more than ever to alleviate the dire rental stress evident across the nation.”
Crime impact leads to new Neighbourhood Watch group By Corey Everitt A new Neighbourhood Watch (NHW) initiative for Pakenham has kicked off with their first meeting reflecting a desire for more action and connectivity in the community to help prevent crime. The meeting, on the evening of Wednesday 7 February, called for all interested to gather and coalesce their interests in igniting a new Neighbourhood Watch group. Approximately 40 people gathered at James Bathe Recreation Reserve to hear from NHW’s manager, administration and members’ service Nicoll Peschek. Ms Peschek presented the core principles and history of NHW and what kind of activities and impact a local group can have in crime prevention. The meeting was vibrant and active with many questions asked and enthusiasm to take action in the community. A Victoria Police spokesperson attended the meeting, while councillor Tammy Radford and president of Neighbourhood Watch
Attendees of the meeting for a new local Neighbourhood Watch. Cardinia, David Farrelly also attended. Pakenham resident and organiser of the event, Maqsood Ahmad felt vindicated by
Picture: COREY EVERITT
the turnout. “People want to come together and make Pakenham more safe.”
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The group was formed by Pakenham locals who were inspired to take action after seeing the effects of crime on those they know and in the community in general. “There was a lot of volunteer work behind the scenes,” Mr Ahmad said. “I initiated this and brought along community members who have been impacted by crime in the past; there has been a lot of communication with Nicoll, with council and the police.” Now with a successful start and more interest from residents to jump on board, they look to keep the momentum going and establish a formal group. “A lot of valuable information, the police shared a lot as well, I learnt a lot of things and I’m sure all other attendees did as well,” Mr Ahmad said. “We’ll be having a few meetings internally and form a group moving forward, we are exploring and keeping all opportunities open.” If you are interested in getting involved you can inquire at dr_maq@hotmail.com
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STAR NEWS 3
THE LOWDOWN Q&A
with children’s services coodinator at Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre, Kirsty Tucker
Tell us about yourself and your job! I am married with a loving husband for 12 years and we have two beautiful children, I have worked in the childcare industry for almost 30 years. I am the children services coordinator at Merinda Park Learning and Community centre, where we run before and after school care, three- and four-year-old kindergarten program as well as a day care service for children 0-5 years old. What do you love the most about your job? I love my chosen job as I have now found a wonderful work life balance where I am able to work with lots of families to support their children with their growth and development, as well as spending extra time with my own family. If you were an animal, what animal would you be? I would love to be a meerkat, where you could sit at the top of the hill and take everything around you in. What was your most memorable moment during your current job? My most memorable moment so far is being approved to run a sessional three- and fouryear-old kindergarten program. I have seen so many children missing out on valuable learning as the current free programs are full and the childcare system is too expensive for so many families, so being able to offer a free kindergarten program to help children get ready for the school system is the highlight of my current role, this is closely followed by winning the Health Promotion Award for changing the way the before and after care children participate in cooking and eating and cleaning up, and their new healthy menu. What were you like as a kid? I was very shy and quiet, but loved participating in sporting events.
THREE … things to do post Valentine’s Day
1
Clean the kitchen voluntarily if you’re not usually the one to do it.
2
Start to plan for the next anniversary. Never too early to prepare.
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Finish the rest of the chocolate at work, or distribute them to colleagues.
Kirsty Tucker, children’s services coordinator at Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre. 387663 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS What event, past or present, would you like to witness? I would love to be able to attend either the Olympics or Commonwealth Games in Australia. Which six dinner guests, dead or alive, would you invite to dinner? Would have to choose both my Dad and mother in law who have passed away to have dinner with my family so they could have a chance to meet their grandchildren. What three words would your friends use to describe you? Caring, friendly and helpful.
What would you do on your perfect ‘day off’? Relax with my family at a hot rod show. Where is your happy place? My happy place is anywhere being on holidays with my family. If you had to compete on MasterChef, what dish would you cook? A large lasagna with a side salad. Where is your dream holiday destination? To travel the whole of Australia in a caravan with my family, there is way too many beautiful destinations in our own backyard that need discovering before heading overseas.
NEWS
Free kinder registration It’s now free for Cardinia Shire families to register their children for three-year-old and four-year-old community kindergarten via the council’s registration portal. From 9 February 2024, the $31 registration fee is no longer being charged, making kindergarten registration free for families. Cardinia Shire Council has received additional funding from the State Government’s Administrative Support Grants to contribute to the administration cost of operating the kindergarten Central Registration and Enrolment Scheme (CRES), enabling council to now provide this service to the community free of
charge. Cardinia Shire mayor councillor Jack Kowarzik said the additional funding, which forms part of the State Government’s Best Start, Best Life reforms, was great news for the Cardinia community. “The kindergarten Central Registration and Enrolment Scheme is a vital service delivered by council that ensures fair access to funded kindergarten programs for all families,” Cr Kowarzik said. “The increased funding is a win for our community as it means council will be able to continue supporting families to access funded kindergarten programs through a simple and
inclusive registration process, at absolutely no cost to them.” Cr Kowarzik said parents could register their child for three-year-old or four-year-old kindergarten at any time using the council’s online kindergarten portal. “Cardinia Shire is home to around 2000 kinder-aged children, and we’re excited to be able to offer each of them free community kindergarten, and now free registration as well.” To register for three-year-old and four-yearold kindergarten, visit the council’s online kindergarten portal at cardinia.vic.gov.au/kindergartenregistration
Kindergarten registration is now free for Cardinia Shire families. Picture: ON FILE
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STAR NEWS 5
NEWS
Woman fends off attacker A man on a bike is wanted over an attack on an “exceptionally brave” jogger on Dandenong Creek Trail last month. Sexual Crimes Squad detectives held an information caravan in Dandenong North on 14 February as part of the investigation. They have released footage of a man they are hoping to identify. A woman was running along the trail, near Outlook Drive just north of Mercer Court, when an unknown man approached her about 3pm on 31 January, police say. She was running in a southerly direction on the trail when she first saw the man on a bicycle. After turning around shortly after to start running north, the same man allegedly approached her from behind and threw her to the ground. The man lay on top of her and attempted to remove her clothing, however the woman screamed and successfully fought him off. He jumped on his bike and took off south towards Tirhatuan Park. “This is a concerning attack on a woman who was simply going for a run through her local park,” Detective Senior Sergeant Glyn Woolley said. “She has been exceptionally brave and managed to fight him off before contacting police.”
The alleged attacker is described as being possibly in his late teens or early 20s, of a thin build and with an olive complexion, potentially of Indian or sub-continental appearance. He was wearing a grey T-shirt, dark coloured pants, slides and socks at the time. Det Sen Sgt Woolley said detectives had canvassed a significant amount of CCTV in the area. Local police had also patrolled the park to attempt to find the man in recent weeks. He said detectives were treating the incident as an “isolated attack”. “We have no reason at this stage to believe the attack was targeted nor have we found any similar incidents occurring in this area over the past few months. “Hopefully by holding this information caravan and releasing this footage today, this will provide us with new lines of enquiry.” The Mounted Branch will also conduct patrols in the area. Any information to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
Police have released footage of a man they are hoping to identify. Picture: VICTORIA POLICE
OPINION SOCIALLY SPEAKING Council Watch has reported that roads are a top priority for surveyed ratepayers. What council roads in Casey need urgent attention? Alyssa Wright Continue the Bells Road extension through Pattersons Road, to meet with Ballarto Road. Mike Schendzielorz I’d start with the ones they have been working on already for years! Leanne Flitton Clyde Five Ways. Craig Marston I’m trying to understand why they resurfaced Cleopatra drive (under the powerlines). Compared to the rest of the roads in Cranbourne it was in mint condition. Linda Vecchio Can we please not start new road works until the rest are finished???? Goodman Scott Glasscocks Road between NWCR and The Promenade! Not only will it take a large amount of traffic off the back roads and help ease congestion at the Littlecroft end of Casey Central, but it would also improve emergency response times into that area east of NWCR. And while you’re at it City of Casey, duplicate/realign Pound Road/ Greaves Road which is a major thorough-
Signs of frustration As a responsible resident of Casey and a ratepayer, I urgently request the new administration to review its policy on road safety signs. There are so many that have been installed lately in Endeavour Hills, and maybe, elsewhere in Casey, as well. They are of different sizes, different shapes and different colours. Together with the large painted speed humps, they represent a real waste of public funds. After the sacking of the mayor and all sitting councillors in 2020, Casey residents would have expected something better from the new administration. Sadly however, I notice that the new administration continues to waste ratepayers money on some bogus projects. As I’ve said to Casey Council before, all my life, I’ve been a strong supporter of road safety 6 STAR NEWS
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fare these days. Leonie O’Connor-Byrne All of them. You’re lucky to find one that’s not rooted and riddled with potholes. Jo Jo All of them ... we keep our cars road worthy, it’s high time all roads were car worthy so we stop damaging our cars on them. Malcolm Wells Would have been easier to ask if there were roads not in need of attention. Ben Bell Thompsons Road/Soldiers Road. Linsell Blvd/Clyde Road is still a joke. All of them! Stop building 100 new estates and onelane roads in and out of them! *** What do you think about Casey’s former councillors mounting a comeback? Jo Victoria Experienced councillors are needed to get Casey back to looking respectable again. We don’t need new candidates, that will campaign on issues, that are beyond the capabilities of a local government. Michael Rogers No thanks! Just focus on roads, rates, rubbish, parks and garden maintenance! Leave your ideology and crusades at the door! measures that include speed humps, roundabouts, traffic islands, street lightings and road safety signs for the safety of pedestrians and all other road users. But I’m 100 per cent against the current policy of the Casey administration in regard to speed humps, road safety signs and signage on the nature strip, along Heatherton Road, Endeavour Hills. In my humble opinion, there should be an independent investigation to find out what are the criteria, if any, that allow land developers, estate agents, business organisations, Rotary clubs and other associations to use that part of Heatherton Road as a signage for advertising their lucrative business, under the guise of promoting social and school events. Do they pay any fees? If yes, how much? To whom? These business people should not believe that all the local residents in Endeavour Hills
LENSCAPE
Casey Cardinia Country Week cricket in the big smoke, North Port Oval, Port Melbourne. 389021 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS are naïve and stupid not to understand their astute strategy for publicity. Many years ago, I was told that Casey signage policy would be reviewed. For God’s sake, let it be done as soon as possible. First to protect the environment; (2) to remove the eyesore; (3) to avoid distractions to motorists; (4) not to obstruct the view of motorists at the intersection of Heatherton Road and Power Road. Eliezer François JP, Endeavour Hills
I was ‘never sacked’ It was stated sacked ex-Casey councillors are weighing up their return to council. To set the record straight I was never sacked. I resigned back in January 2020 and I was never going to be sacked for something I
was never involved in. IBAC did make contact with me but I could not give them any information as I was unaware of any transactions between certain councillors and the developer John Woodman. I have worked in a private hospital in Berwick for 21 years and over that time I have looked after many of my ward residents and ratepayers and to face them on a daily basis would be very uncomfortable if I was in the wrong. I have not and was never associated with any political party that people presume I was attached to. Yes I have put my hand up to run for council and I am certainly am not ashamed to be doing so. Rex Flannery, Narre Warren South pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
THE IGET IT, I THINK BIT
Lose yourself at one of Victoria’s renowned galleries or artist workshops. You’ll find plenty to your taste – or not. And that’s the fun of it. Get curious at cultural institutions like Bendigo Art Gallery. VISITVICTORIA.COM
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STAR NEWS 7
NEWS
Dads riding to fight cancer By Violet Li Three dads from the Casey BMX Club - including one from Nar Nar Goon - were successful in taking up a challenge to raise money for cancer research after riding 205km from Cranbourne to Ballarat on Saturday 10 February. The Ballarat BMX Club hosted a race day on the day, attracting BMX riders from across the state as part of the 2024 Ballarat Cycle Classic. The Ballarat Cycle Classic, in its 17th year, raises funds for Ballarat’s Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute. This year, the aim is $250,000. Casey BMX Club members Brent Bailey from Cranbourne North, Adam Wright from Nar Nar Goon, and Nathan Leworthy from Narre Warren, on hearing of the event, thought it was a great idea to ride from their home club in Cranbourne to Ballarat’s BMX Club event, along the way raising money for the cause. Leaving Casey Fields at 4am on their 20inch BMX racing bikes, they arrived at Ballarat at about 5pm after 13 hours’ journey. Adam said none of the three were professional cyclists, and they only made the decision to go three weeks ago. “I think it just determination that kept us going, and we looked to get it done because so many people have donated money to support such a great cause,” he said. “We’ve now tallied up over $10,000 for the Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute.” Along the journey, they also called into the Frankston Sharks BMX Club, Wyndham BMX, and the Bacchus March BMX Club on the way to Ballarat. The inspiration behind their crazy idea has come from family and friends who have fought this horrendous disease. Adam’s sister Hayley, who is only 33 years old, was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer last year.
Three dads from the Casey BMX Club were successful in taking up a challenge to raise money for cancer research after riding 205km from Cranbourne to Ballarat on Saturday 10 February. Picture: SUPPLIED Adam and Hayley lost their mother to breast cancer when they were children. “We’ve had a lot of people within our club sort of touched by cancer, so we thought it was just a great way for us to contribute,” Adam said. Nathan is not a bike rider nor goes to the gym but has a very personal reason also for this challenge.
When he first heard of this idea from his mates, his response was: “Well I have to try, my wife had cancer, I may not make it, but I am going to give it a red-hot crack!” A support crew followed the team and met up with them at certain sections to facilitate the smooth completion of the journey. The Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute is a world-class cancer research facility based
in Ballarat, Victoria. As Australia’s only regionally based cancer research centre, community funded, and rely on the generous support of the community to continue research into more effective ways to diagnose and treat cancer. To support cancer research, you could donate at: https://ballaratcycleclassic.com.au/ page/BallaratSebasBMX
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Hampton Park’s Ali Rezaie has been nominated in the 7NEWS Young Achiever Awards.
Another nomination for Ali By Emma Xerri Ali Rezaie is continuing to take the automotive world by storm, securing yet another prestigious award nomination. For Hampton Park’s Ali Rezaie, who was born and raised in Afghanistan, the 7NEWS Young Achiever Awards nomination is a testament to the unceasing hard work he has immersed himself in since arriving in Australia less than five years ago. “Coming to Australia, everything was new – new culture, new language, and new people. It was a complex transition for me,” he said. “As soon as I started an apprenticeship, I knew this was for me, this is what I was looking for.” Searching for a stable, lasting job, Mr Rezaie stumbled upon panel beating, and has excelled in his chosen career, all while learning a new language and completing his training at the Kangan Institute. Having already received a Silver Medal in Autobody Repair at the 2022 WorldSkills
Regional Championships, a Bronze at the 2023 WorldSkills National Championships and the honour of being named 2022 Capital S.M.A.R.T Victorian Apprentice of the Year, Mr Rezaie’s work was once again recognised at the Kangan Institute’s Industry Excellence Awards for 2024, where he received the Rising Star Award for his autobody apprenticeship. “I want to push myself and this is the best way to do that. It’s a good chance to learn more things,” he added. The Young Achiever Awards, which began in 2012, serve to acknowledge, encourage and promote the positive achievements of all young people across the country, with the category winners each receiving $2000 in prizes and a trophy, as well as the chance to be named the 2024 Victorian Young Achiever of the Year. Judging for the awards will take place on Wednesday 27 March 2024, and finalists will be presented at an Awards Gala Presentation Dinner on Friday 14 June 2024.
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NEWS
Devastation as trees lost By Violet Li Frances* adored the lush stand of large oak trees next to where she lived. “There were a lot of them, possibly 20. They would have been at least 80 to 100 years old,” she said. “They were gorgeous trees. They changed colours in the autumn and gave beautiful shades. There were birds all around.” Frances was devastated on Wednesday 7 February when she heard the construction noise from the site. “I didn’t go up there the next day because it makes me too sad,” Frances said. A stand of oak trees was cut down and removed for development at the corner of Craig Road and Protea Street in Junction Village, leaving the community overwhelmed with a loss of historical and environmental significance the trees carried. The block of land at 39 Craig Road was sold in 2023 for $2.55m. A listing photo shows the rectangular land of 6778 square metres had a large cover of trees on the right end. When contacted, Casey Council said it was still accessing the application on the land and could not provide relevant information due to privacy reasons. Frances, a long-time resident in the area, remembered that a beautiful old house from the 1940s era used to sit on the land with a spacious garden and a swimming pool. “It’s just sad how all the things of historical significance, the farmhouses and others in our area, are just being torn down for development,” she said. “Apart from the historical significance of those trees and also the fact that they’re so good for the environment, I feel they could’ve incorporated them into their development and made it such a gorgeous development.” Old trees perform crucial ecological roles, such as providing wildlife habitats, contrib-
Seven large oak trees at the front of 39 Craig Road have been removed for development. Three were left at the time of writing on Friday 9 February. 388052 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS
The stump. 388052
The cut-off branches. 388052 uting to species diversity, and capturing and storing carbon dioxide. Frances said those oak trees were very high and spready, which might substantiate their estimated ages. “If you put your arms around one tree, you wouldn’t have been able to touch your fingertips,” she said.
“They were similar to the trees in Cranbourne in the Avenue of Honour.” As an artist, Frances has painted quite a few eucalypts in her career, but she never got around to painting that big stand of oak trees. “I really regret. I’ve only got photographs of them coming down,” she said. At the time of writing on Friday 9 February,
seven large oak trees at the front of the block had been removed as well as some at the rear of the block. The remaining three oak trees at the front were removed on the morning of Wednesday 14 February. The developer has been contacted for comment. * Frances is a pseudonym due to privacy reasons.
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STAR NEWS 9
NEWS
Finding care made easy
With early works now underway, the Clyde Road upgrade aims to improve traffic and liveability in the area.
Upgrade kicks off By Emma Xerri Early works on the Clyde Road Upgrade have begun, with crews working to relocate and protect essential underground services. The works will be located at the intersection of Clyde Road and Kangan Drive, and will add additional lanes on Clyde Road between the Princes Freeway and Kangan Drive, upgrade both freeway intersections and the Kangan Drive/Sir Gustav Nossal Boulevard intersection, and widen the existing freeway bridge. The upgrade also will build and upgrade 1.2km of shared walking and cycling paths to give safer and easier travel options, and install new street lighting, road signage, drainage and
landscaping. With these changes, the upgrade aims to provide more reliable travel times, improve traffic flow, make walking and cycling along Clyde Road safer and easier, and improve general livability in the area. But with these changes come inevitable closures, which will hopefully be aided by appropriate detours put in place to minimise disruption. There will be one right turn lane closure from Clyde Road into Kangan Drive daily between 9.30am and 5pm, as well as a closure on the left turn slip lane into Kangan Drive from Clyde Road, and the pedestrian crossing on the north side of the Clyde Road and Kangan
Drive intersection. However, access to hospitals and educational institutions will be maintained while works are completed, and the upgrade will work to implement changes to relieve bottlenecks surrounding these nearby educational and health institutions. Following the completion of the early utility relocation stage in late 2024, major works will commence at the end of the year through to late 2027, working in unison with recent road and level crossing infrastructure upgrades throughout the south east to provide better connection to the Princes Freeway and surrounding suburbs, as well as complementing future upgrades.
Cardinia seniors are invited to attend new Care Finder information sessions next month to learn about and get help with accessing My Aged Care services. The Care Finder program is a free service which explains and helps seniors to navigate the process of applying for My Aged Care support services, such as cleaning, shopping and personal care. Cardinia mayor councillor Jack Kowarzik said all local seniors are welcome to attend the upcoming information sessions on Tuesday 12 March and Tuesday 19 March from 10am to noon at the Cardinia Civic Centre at 20 Siding Avenue in Officer. “To access My Aged Care support services, seniors need an assessment to determine their individual needs, eligibility, and service suitability,” he said. “I’ve heard the process can be a bit overwhelming for those who have no prior knowledge about it. “That’s why council has partnered with Care Finder providers Wintringham, Monash Health, and Care Connect, to host two free information sessions in March and help educate and support our senior community members to get started.” Mr Kowarzik said all attendees are encouraged to book early to attend. “It’s a great opportunity to get important information about accessing aged care services that may be available to you or your loved ones,” he said. “Attendees will also get one-on-one support and advice specific to their needs and receive help to start on their application to access My Aged Care support.” For more information about the information sessions, email Council’s Ageing Well team at mail@cardinia.vic.gov. au or call 1300 787 624 during business hours. For more information about the Care Finder program, visit cardinia.vic.gov. au/CareFinder
Keeping machetes away from crooks focus of new laws The way machetes are classified will change as part of new laws to boost police powers on illegal firearms and weapon sales. Introduced into Parliament, the Firearms and Control of Weapons (Machetes) Amendment Bill 2024 will amend existing laws to make it easier for police to serve a firearm prohibition order (FPO) on a person. While the scheme has seen Victoria Police issue more than 2,000 FPOs to keep illicit firearms out of the hands of serious and organised crime members, currently FPOs must be served in person which can prove difficult where a person is avoiding police. Under this new Bill, police will be able to stop a person in a public place and direct that they remain there or accompany an officer to a police station or other safe place for up to two hours for the purposes of serving an FPO. Police will also be able to apply to a magistrate for a warrant to enter a premises to search for and serve a person an FPO. Where an individual in detention has declined a visit by a police officer, police will also be able to serve an FPO on that person by registered post. Separately, the Bill will amend the Control 10 STAR NEWS
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of Weapons Act 1990 to ensure that there is no doubt that a machete is a controlled weapon. While machetes are frequently used for legitimate and lawful purposes, such as clearing food crops, gardening and maintaining trails - clarifying to traders that machetes are controlled weapons and proof of age must be checked before sale will help police ensure machetes don’t end up in the hands of minors. The penalty for carrying a controlled weapon with an unlawful excuse is a fine of more than $23,000 or a jail term of one year. It is an offence for a person to sell a controlled weapon to any person under 18, with a fine of up to $3,846. It is also an offence for a child to purchase a controlled weapon, with a fine of up to $2,308. However, the Liberal Nationals party stated the legislation was opposed when it was introduced by them in Parliament last year. According to the opposition, this delay has seen machetes continued to be sold to youths and used in violent crimes, with police not having the powers to proactively remove the weapons from the street.
Thursday, 15 February, 2024
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STAR NEWS 11
NEWS
Merv McCormack at his not quite rabbit-proof fence. 388057
Rabbit proofing in the yard. 388057
Keeping the rabbits out By Violet Li Botanic Ridge residents are urging Casey Council to solve a local rabbit plague after several years of exhausting and futile battles with the invasive species. Richard Francis, president of the Vertebrate Pest Management Association of Australia and a zoologist who works to remove rabbits in the Casey area, removed 100 of them on one night a week ago. “Still, you can’t tell any difference,” he said. Resident Merv McCormack said the area was just crawling with rabbits in the early morning and at sunset. “They’re eating our roses, thorns and all. They’ve ruined a couple of my garden beds. We’ve had to take extra caution of putting barricades around our gates,” he said. “They dig under everywhere. I put up plastic mesh, and they just eat it and make a hole and go through. “It cost me a fortune in star pickets, and they just crash from the front yard. You look at the house and all you see is bloody star pickets.” When Mr McCormack moved in about a decade ago, the area was all farmland and there were no issues with rabbits. “They had all their burrows in the farmlands and were quite content,” he said. “But with all the development and subdivision in the area, they’re being forced out of where their natural habitat was. “All that area that the rabbits were quite happy in is not available to them. They just go roaming around everywhere.” Mr Francis said a combination of productive agricultural land and the sand dune systems around Cranbourne and Botanic Ridge contributed to ideal conditions for rabbits to breed. “Rabbits like to create warrens and these old tertiary dunes are ideal for them to burrow in, and then you’ve got the low-lying alluvial areas with nice vegetation to feed on,” he said. “Rabbits have a very high reproductive rate. But they still need a safe place to sleep and to breathe, and they still need to have access to food. And in Cranbourne, they’ve got all those things very close by.” Mr Francis said there were limited methods that could be used to deal with rabbits in the area because of the existence of an endangered species called the Southern Brown Bandicoot. The bandicoot was assessed as endangered in the 2021 Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act Threatened List Victoria. A key population of the species lives at and around the Cranbourne Royal Botanic Gardens. “There’s a reluctance to bait rabbits in case bandicoots are also affected by the baiting,” Mr Francis said. “There’s no actual evidence that the bandicoots are affected, but as a precaution, baiting is not used in areas where there are Southern Brown Bandicoots.” Fumigation, warren destruction, and shooting are the techniques used in the area to remove rabbits, according to Mr Francis. Fencing is also an option, but it is not used widely as it also affects the bandicoots and stops them from moving and dispersing. 12 STAR NEWS
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A local rabbit. 388057
Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS
A hole eaten through Mr McCormack’s rabbit fence. 388057 In 2016, Cranbourne South was one of the parts of Melbourne to trial test the RHDV1 K5 virus that targeted feral rabbits. When asked about the efficacy of the new virus, Mr Francis said it did not go well in areas where breeding was quite constant. “In order for the virus to work, there needs to be a period of time where rabbits aren’t breeding, and they need to get exposed to it during that time,” he said. “It works very well in dry areas. If you go more inland Australia where breeding only happens at particular times of the year, then the virus has worked quite well there. “They breed almost constantly in the Cranbourne area because the environment is mild and there’s always enough food.” Drought years were a different story, but Melbourne already had two mild summers in a row, two years of what would be called mild conditions where rabbits have been breeding continuously, Mr Francis said. When Mr McCormack realised individual efforts would not be able to cope with rabbits in June 2023, he went straight to Casey Council. He claimed the council advised him to con-
Thursday, 15 February, 2024
Rabbit fence. 388057
tact the Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA). The council helped him contact the EPA and one EPA officer visited the site in the same month and advised him to contact the Department of Agriculture, Victoria. Mr McCormack said he heard back from the department eight months later. Ultimately, though, rabbits fall under the Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994 as an established pest animal and it is individual landowners who have an obligation to prevent the spread of, and as far as possible, eradicate rabbits from their land. According to their website, effective rabbit control requires an integrated approach using a combination of control measures and it is important to work with neighbours, rather than individual properties. It also says you can talk to neighbours - and your local Landcare group - about forming a coordinated plan. “Good planning is essential for maximising the effectiveness of your rabbit control program, while minimising impact on other animals. Consider rabbit density, distribution and habitat as this will determine what actions are appropriate,“ their website says. Some gardeners use blood and bone to de-
ter rabits, and chicken wire - but ensure it’s buried into the ground. When inquired, Casey Council said they were aware that rabbit numbers were currently high in Casey and across Victoria more broadly, which was due to increased food availability from two-to-three years of high rainfall which had triggered ideal conditions for breeding. “To manage rabbits in Botanic Ridge, the City of Casey has mapped warrens throughout the park network and a contractor has been engaged to deliver on-ground rabbit control works, with works scheduled to commence in early March 2024,” a spokesperson said. “The presence of the EPBC Act listed (endangered) Southern Brown Bandicoot in the Botanic Ridge area limits the use of other control methods such as Pindone. Similarly, the use of 1080 baiting is constrained by the presence of domestic dogs in the Botanic Ridge area. “The City of Casey is also working with Agriculture Victoria to notify private landowners of their obligations to control rabbits.” Mr McCormack said people needed to keep following up on the rabbit plague, otherwise no change would happen. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
USP: Why it’s important TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS IAN ASH
The key is to work out how you supply goods and services that is different to anyone else and describe this clearly and succinctly, Ian Ash says. Picture: GENERIC unique selling point and these days there is precious little that you can do or produce that could not be replicated by some other business given sufficient resources and training. What typically makes a product or service unique is the way in which it is sold. As Simon Sinek wisely noted: “People don’t buy what you do; they buy why you do it.” So, the key here is to work out how you supply goods and services that is different to anyone else and describe this clearly and suc-
cinctly. At first sight it may be tempting to talk about how you are better, cheaper or faster than anyone else or are more customer-focused etc, but you need to take care here since many businesses will claim to offer superior quality, lower prices or better customer experience than the rest and so these things won’t necessarily be seen as “differentiators”. Most customers these days expect these things as a given and the vast majority of SMEs will find it difficult to compete with larger customers on price anyway due to the buying power of the latter.
Developing a powerful USP is therefore not quite such an easy task and there are a few key principles to help here: Don’t try to appeal to everyone, make sure the statement relates to your target audience Be specific about the one thing you do better than the others Be succinct - in marketing, ‘less is more’ and you want customers to understand it quickly Ian Ash ACC, AInstIB Managing Director OrgMent Business Solutions - www.ombs.com.au
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Do you know what your USP is and does this matter anyway? A USP is a ‘Unique Selling Point’ or ‘Unique Selling Proposition’ which is a short marketing statement that differentiates a product, service or brand from its competitors. It therefore forms part of a business’ overall Value Proposition (which describes the advantages and benefits of using the products and services to the customer) and as it turns out, it does matter, let’s explore why. A winning ingredient of success for any business is being able to supply products or services to its customers which are better than the competition, but how will customers know that these products and services are better if they haven’t used them before? This is the role of marketing which the Oxford Dictionary defines as “the activity or business of promoting and selling products or services, including market research and advertising”. It is the process that enables sales – the more effective your marketing, the more likely you are to increase sales. Marketing itself covers a wide range of functions all the way from identifying and defining the USP, through to decisions about how and where best to place the marketing messages, e.g. websites, magazines, billboards, radio and TV etc (the “marketing channels”) and finally what format these should take, i.e. the look, feel and sound of the messages themselves. There is much that can be said about all these areas, but today we’ll focus on where it all starts: identifying and defining the USP. As the term implies, we are looking for the
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Thursday, 15 February, 2024
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NEWS
Thousands spent on travel By Ethan Benedicto and AAP Local representatives are among the fray as Victorian MPs received backlash for the amount spent on international travel expenses in the past year. A total of $28,319 in taxpayer funds was spent by four MPs representing the southeast, two of who are in the Upper House, on trips to North America and Asia. According to statistics from the Victorian Independent Remuneration Tribunal, each MP has an international travel allowance of $10,765 per annum, which is used to perform public duties overseas. Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas was America-bound, spending a total of $6216 on a flight to Chicago, Illinois to attend a Neetroots Nations Conference from 11 to 22 July 2023. In a statement outlined in his travel report, Maas said that the reason for his travel was that “communication techniques and platforms are evolving and changing quickly. “I want to research the latest platforms and techniques from progressive parties and organisations to be able to provide information and receive feedback from constituents via different platforms,” Maas said. Throughout the trip, Mr Maas attended all three plenary sessions and nine training/professional development panels over the conference’s three days. He further stated in the report that he would “thoroughly recommend this conference to other members of parliament.” He added that it’s for those “who are interested in improving or keeping up with the latest communication strategies and organising tools for their electorates.” In the electorate above, Narre Warren North MP Belinda Wilson joined Upper House member Lee Tarlamis on a trip to India from the dates of 6 to 18 September 2023. Costing a total of $4575, Mrs Wilson’s travel statement said that the purpose of the trip was to further build on the relationship between Victoria and India. The delegation trip was aimed at “strengthening our bilateral ties, exploring potential business opportunities, and to further understand the shared values and interests between Victoria and India,” she said. Her travel report included further details and statistics on trade dynamics between Victoria and India, as well as an emphasis on strengthening bilateral ties. According to the Members of Parliament guidelines, an MP may claim the international travel allowance for travel and transport costs to perform their public duties. In addition, the allowance also covers accommodation, meals and incidentals when an MP is overseas.
Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas travelled to Chicago in the U.S. for a Neetroots Nations event. Pictures: SUPPLIED
Ann-Marie Hermans MP travelled to Armenia to attend an AIJAC event.
In that February trip’s travel report, he began by acknowledging that “the largest Indian population in Victoria is in the South Eastern suburbs.” “I travelled to India to strengthen the relationship between Victoria and India. “Make contacts with business executives and government officials, and comprehend the shared values and interests of our governments to inform my job as their Legislative Council representative,” Mr Tarlamis said. An extensive itinerary was included in Mr Tarlamis’ report, one that detailed his attendance at events, meetings with ministers and visits to landmarks. Both Mr Tarlamis and Mrs Wilson provided a recommendations section on the report, where they provided their advice regarding their findings. To attend an Australia Israel and Jewish Affairs Council (AIJAC) parliamentary research event, Upper House MP Ann-Marie Hermans was the other southeast representative to travel overseas. While not specifically detailed in her personal travel report, Mrs Hermans travelled with Rowville MP Kim Wells to Yerevan from 7 to 20 July 2023. Costing a total of $5868, Mrs Hermans’ travel agenda was included in Mr Wells’, where both parties dedicated their travel to the south-east’s many Armenian communities. “The Armenian community have reached out to develop relationships with members of parliament and want to be heard.
“Firstly, the Armenians have requested that the Victorian Parliament establish a Parliamentary Friendship Group with Armenia. “The objective of the trip to Armenia is to decide whether we will support a ‘Parliamentary Friends of Armenia’ and/or be members of the group,” the report said. This report provided an extensive summary of the trip and included a section listing their achievements which included improvement in bi-partisan relations and further understanding of Armenia’s diplomatic tensions. Premier Jacinta Allan supported the availability of claiming international travel allowance to backbenchers. Ms Allan said that “there is an independent process that sits over the decisions around members of parliament’s allowances and rates of pay, that’s what it should be.” “We all have a responsibility that should we choose to take up these allowances, we need to do it responsibly.” This comes as the Premier herself recently announced that while the city hasn’t been announced, she would be making a trip to India sometime later this year. Travel reports for each MP are available to the public for viewing and can be accessed through their respective Parliament of Victoria website. There, one can personally see an MP’s expenses, as well as other items such as their trip itinerary, objectives, the reason for travel and a breakdown of their findings throughout the trip.
Dr Zareh Ghazarian from Monash University weighed in on the appropriateness of the international trips, stating that “there’s political risk for MPs who take on these trips because of exactly what’s happening.” “I think any sort of expenditure by government is going to be scrutinised by the public, especially in times where there is great interest in cost of living, cost of living pressures, housing affordability.” A political scientist from Monash’s school of social sciences, Dr Ghazarian added that “these trips should be opportunities for MPs to try and enhance their knowledge and their skillset, and help them make better or more effective policy decisions.” “But of course, these are the rules, it’s not as if MPs have acted illegally or done something that is improper, they’re acting within their existing entitlements. “Really it’s up to the community to then pass judgement on whether those sorts of trips and the justifications the MPs had made pass what the community standards are. “Whether they believe they are getting value for money from the trips and sorts of investments that are being made in their MPs’ travel arrangements,” Dr Ghazarian said. Upper House MP Lee Tarlamis made his second trip to India that year with Mrs Wilson, spending a total of $4689 for a stay from 5 to 18 September 2023. A few months earlier, Mr Tarlamis made his first trip to India between 10 to 19 February, costing $6194.
Voice of the people: No joy in ex-councillors returning By Ethan Benedicto Berwick residents aren’t too keen with Casey’s sacked ex-councillors eyeing a comeback on the October election this year. At Berwick High Street, two elderly locals were appalled by the news, with one of them saying “yeah no, it’s not something I’d be voting for.” “I think that one councillor shouldn’t be up there, that’s what the name says to me,” one of them said, but did not mention a name. The other replied saying “hopefully he wouldn’t get re-elected.” “How could he? When his name’s been slandered, tarnished and everything else,” her friend said. In 2020, then-Local Government Minister Adem Somyurek sacked the Casey councillors during the Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission’s probe, called Operation Sandon. An inquiry report in 2023 found that former mayors Sam Aziz and Geoff Ablett accepted more than $1.15 million in payments and donations from developer John Woodman. 14 STAR NEWS
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Thursday, 15 February, 2024
There is no confirmation as to whether any of the ex-councillors will be facing any criminal charges. Another resident, when asked if it was a good idea for any of them to run again, said “clearly not”. “I don’t know much about it, but based on general information and the news, I would say no, that’s not very fair.” A local who frequented the cafes said that the idea should never have been entertained. “Well everyone’s obviously lost trust, a hundred per cent. “Look, we’ve run without it for all this time, so they’re going to need to build some trust if they ever want to see themselves up there again,” she said. Ex-deputy mayor Rex Flannery, who was not named in IBAC’s report and quit before the council was sacked, declared he would run for election. A number of other ex-councillors, such as Damien Rosario and Wayne Smith are still undecided. Some ex-councillors have called for any charges arising from Operation Sandon to be finalised before October’s council election.
The Bunjil Place opening in 2017 (from left), with former Casey CEO Mike Tyler, and excouncillors Rex Flannery, Amanda Stapledon, Timothy Jackson, Milla Gilic, Susan Serey, Sam Aziz, Jason Wood MP, Wayne Smith, Geoff Ablett and Damien Rosario. 174129 pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
Intruder behind bars Smoke alert By Violet Li By Cam Lucadou-Wells An ice-addled and armed home intruder who erratically fled in a stolen car and veered off the road to avoid a police intercept in Narre Warren South has been jailed. Trent Harrison, 39, of Dandenong, pleaded guilty to a range of charges at the Victorian County Court including dangerous driving, unlicensed driving, aggravated burglary, car theft and breaching bail and intervention orders. In June 2022, Harrison sent a ‘dick pic’ and text messages to a Hampton Park woman. She responded she was reporting him to police, adding “you deserve everything you get”. “Yeah so will you in the next 20, you’ve been playing me the whole time now it’s my turn,” Harrison typed back. Within 20 minutes, Harrison was armed with a meat cleaver and an axe multi-tool trying to break into her home. He pried open two outside French doors with the cleaver despite the victim’s attempts to keep them shut. She was flung backwards as he forced his way into the home. Another occupant was cut on the wrist by wood that flew off the door. Ranting and raving, Harrison rifled through bedroom drawers before stealing car keys and the victim’s Commodore. Later that night, police attempted to intercept the car in Hampton Park. But Harrison fled out of sight despite police activating their lights and siren.
Picture: AAP IMAGE/CON CHRONIS Air Wing officers observed the Commodore being driven with headlights off on the wrong side of a wet road. Harrison narrowly missed a head-on crash while overtaking on Pound Road, Narre Warren South, and drove off the road to dodge police stop sticks on Filmer Crescent. Despite police demands to get out of the car, Harrison tried to accelerate his Commodore which was bogged in mud. An officer smashed the car window and
twice tasered Harrison, who was eventually pulled from the car and arrested. Harrison later admitted he was affected by meth at the time. His victim described to the court her terror and continued flashbacks. Her car was subsequently a write-off. In sentencing on 8 February, County Court judge Kellie Blair noted Harrison was motivated to steal rather than assault during his armed break-in. His erratic driving while in a “poor state” was a “serious” example of dangerous driving. The judge noted Harrison’s “significant” prior criminal history but also his long battles with mental illnesses, drug abuse and a significantly neglected, deprived childhood. According to a psychologist expert, he’d require extensive community supports including medication management and a rehab facility to address his “chaotic mode of living”. His high risk of reoffending would otherwise be heightened by drug use, unstable accommodation and a lack of routine, the court heard. In a “difficult” sentence, Harrison was convicted and jailed for 16 months – which includes about a year already served in remand. He will then serve an 18-month community corrections order including supervision, judicial monitoring and drug and mental health treatment. He was disqualified from driving for a year.
A fire was detected at Hallam Road Landfill on the morning of 8 February. EPA was alerted by the site operator Veolia about smoke emanating from an intermediately capped landfill cell. Fire services were not required. The area was isolated for safety and doused with water. The landfill gas wells in the immediate area were closed and additional cover material was applied, which was to prevent airflow into the landfill cell to remove oxygen as a fuel source for the potential sub-surface fire. A Veolia spokesperson said they were not aware of any offsite impacts and would continue to monitor. “Our operations minimise these occurrences, and our procedures enable us to respond immediately to such matters if they periodically occur,” they said. No further actions were issued to Veolia by the EPA. EPA will continue to monitor the situation including Veolia’s ongoing odour monitoring and management. If you need to report odour issues from the site, contact EPA at 1300 372 842 or epa.vic.gov.au
FOCUS ON … DISABILITY
Limited spots are still available for the SEC cooking groups.
Cooking lessons for all
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fry for our first week. Everyone was shown how to prepare ingredients safely. All ingredients were ‘taste tested’ first, giving everyone an insight into what the ingredients would taste like when added. The wraps were quick to make, cheap, tasty, and healthy. Cooking groups can be a social experience with one other participant. It is also therapeutic and a great way to learn how to eat healthier and purchase ingredients on a budget. We also offer private cooking sessions if preferred. Unfortunately, we have limited spots for the cooking groups, so if you are interested, please call us or contact supportembraceconnect. com.au
12633268-JB37-23
We have started our cooking groups at SEC. The cooking groups are facilitated on Tuesdays and Thursdays, with another day available for one-on-one cooking with Roger. The spacious venue has a well-equipped kitchen that allows all participants to be creative as each cooking group prepares and cooks two recipes. Roger facilitates the cooking groups. Roger worked as a chef in the UK for a few years before moving to Australia. His passion has always been cooking, preparing meals, and creating recipes. Our participants prepared Mediterranean chicken wraps, and Udon noodle chicken stir
Thursday, 15 February, 2024
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STAR NEWS 15
NEWS
Temple hearing postponed By Violet Li A planning permit hearing for the controversial $4.5m Hindu temple in the Mornington Peninsula Green Wedge has been postponed for seven months at the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) after an amendment was submitted for assessment. Non-profit multilingual Hindu organisation Melbourne Ayyappa Seva Sangam (MASS) is seeking approval for a place of worship on the corner of Dandenong-Hastings Road and South Boundary Road West in rural Pearcedale. A Peninsula Green Wedge Protection Group has been established by the affected locals to oppose the proposed development and advocate the protection of Green Wedge land across Victoria since February 2022. As Mornington Shire Council failed to decide within the statutory 60 days, the application was referred to VCAT. The nine-day hearing was originally set to run from 19 to 29 February 2024. MASS submitted the amended proposal in January and sought a postponement, which was given the green light by VCAT on a practice day hearing on 6 February. The hearing will now be held from 2 to 12 September 2024. Resident Craig Gobbi, who represented more than 80 locals at the VCAT hearing, stood against the postponement as the community had been aiming for the day for a long time. He said it would potentially cost them some more money because of the legal preparation needed to pause and restart near the new date. Mr Gobbi also had to cancel his annual leave, which he said was difficult to work out on such short notice. He pointed out the other party missed the deadline for submitting an amended plan, which was 30 business days before the hearing. “They’ve missed that deadline, so we believe that the only way they can get these plans accepted is if they push the date back as well,” he said. A spokesperson for MASS said an extensive amount of work had been undertaken with a view to addressing key issues in dispute and hopefully narrowing the issues between the parties in the VCAT proceeding over recent months. “As part of this process, an amended pack-
A planning permit hearing for the controversial $4.5m Hindu temple in the Mornington Peninsula Green Wedge has been postponed at the Victorian Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) after an amendment was submitted for assessment. 365405 age of plans and associated documents has been circulated, as previously foreshadowed to the parties,” they said. “We formed the view that it was in the interests of justice to allow the parties further time to review the amended package of plans and associated documents, and we sought an adjournment of the hearing to allow for that to occur. “The statutory authorities all supported such an adjournment, however, the objector parties did not, and the tribunal has made a determination in this respect after receiving submissions from parties.” The amended plan has sought to extend the operating hours, which were from 7am to 10am and 5pm to 8pm. This would be changed to 7am to 2pm and 4pm to 8pm. A proposed temple lake would be relocated and the staircase areas from the temple to the lake would be reduced by nearly half to retain more native vegetation. The height of the eating hall would be reduced from 12.288m to 10.794m and the colour of the roof would be changed from ‘copper gold colour’ to ‘colourbond terrain’ to ‘minimise any visual impacts’. The colours of the temple and shrines roof would be changed from ‘copper gold colour’ to ‘colourbond manor red’ to minimise any visual impacts. There would be a wider-angled crossover entrance from South Boundary Road.
The amended version of the temple. The overall site coverage would be reduced from over 6900 square metres to over 6700 square metres. Mr Gobbi said MASS “fudged about the edges” and made no real improvement. “That does not change our objections,” he said. The proposed temple attracted more than 300 formal objections since the submission of the planning application from December 2021 to April 2023. Opponents say that the temple would impose unacceptable impacts on the environ-
Picture: MASS ment, flora, and fauna, and produce unacceptable visual impacts, noise, and light pollution, traffic congestion and accidents, and fire risks. The MASS spokesperson said as the matter was currently before the VCAT, it was not appropriate for them to comment on the merits of the case, or particular issues that might be in dispute. Mornington Peninsula Shire Council turned down the original proposal during a meeting on Tuesday 31 October to define its position for the VCAT proceedings. It has yet to assess the amended version.
‘Disgusting attack’: Email targets Hindu organisation By Violet Li A hate email targeting MASS, which the multilingual Hindu organisation found “most troubling”, was exposed on a VCAT practice day hearing on 6 February. The email, sent on Friday 26 January, and titled ‘Disgrace’, wrote that the temple was
the “biggest piece of s*** eyesore ever”. “You want to destroy sensitive green wedge land for your eyesore. Religion sucks,” it wrote. “Religion should be banned. All it does is breed hate and wars. “You guys are the minority. You don’t need these ugly pieces of s*** everywhere.”
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“We don’t agree with what they said. This is a planning issue. It has nothing to do with religion. And we respect all religions. “This attitude does not in any way represent my stance, perspective, point of view, the stance of our core group, or any group members whom I personally know. We will not tolerate this type of behaviour.”
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Pearcedale resident Craig Gobbi, who was present at the meeting, said on behalf of the Peninsula Green Wedge Protection Group that the person who wrote the email was not affiliated with the group by any means. “The email was appalling. It was an explicit and disgusting attack upon the MASS community and on all religions,” he said.
The Community Grant Workshop is an online webinar starting at 6pm, Monday 19 February. Cardinia Foundation, Cardinia Shire Council and South East Water will partner to present the online Community Grants workshop, exploring the different grants available to community groups and charities across the Cardinia Shire region. Participants will gain valuable insights to help develop effective grant applications, including exploring successful examples and understanding the application criteria and benefits of various grant programs. Workshop participants will have an opportunity to ask questions in an interactive Q&A session, and will receive resources to support their grant applications.
Find out more at tinyurl.com/Cardiniagrant2024 The Cardinia Foundation (formerly Casey Cardinia Foundation) is a philanthropic Community Foundation, raising funds for local community groups throughout the Cardinia Shire, with funds dispersed through an annual grants program. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
Angela’s leading the way By Emma Xerri Now approaching the completion of her latest project, senior project manager Angela Vorng is excited to add the Hall Road Upgrade to the list of things she can point out to her kids on their daily drives to school. Born in Cambodia, where she grew up surrounded by devastation of the civil war, Ms Vorng and her family fled the country to start a new life in Australia at the age of 13. It was only two years later that Angela, despite the difficulties of attending a school in a new language, happened upon her dream career. “A female engineer from Monash came to my school in Year 9 or 10, and it was at that moment that I thought, ‘I would like to wear that hard hat’,” Ms Vorng said. “So I was pretty focused after that session on my goal to become an engineer.” But the Monash University alum admits the course had its challenges. “First year was pretty hard. I actually failed two subjects, which goes to show that it’s okay to fail sometimes. But I managed to do really well in my second and third year. “After I graduated I worked in the private sector, specialising in high rise buildings and bridges. “But I realised I didn’t want to just sit behind a screen and do calculations, so I decided to begin navigating work across different councils, from Dandenong to Cardinia and then Knox. “I spent nearly 10 years in local government but it wasn’t enough of a challenge, so I moved to the rail sector, where I worked for seven years. “And recently I thought, I’ve done pretty much everything there is to do in rail, so let’s go back to roads, and that’s how I landed my current senior project manager role at Major Road Projects Victoria.” With the Hall Road upgrade now approaching completion, Ms Vorng is able to reflect on the success of the project and acknowledge the importance of her own part in the project, a certain leadership that has not always been
Major Road Projects Victoria senior project manager Angela Vorng is helping to break down the barriers faced by women in engineering. afforded to women in the industry. “I feel really connected to the project. I started my work on Hall Road in 2019, so I’ve been involved at a business, budgeting and federal funding level,” she added. “To see this huge milestone finally achieved
is a big relief, and I’m really excited. “Each time I drive past I’ll be able to tell my kids ‘Mummy was involved in this’, so it’s a legacy. “And it’s a completely different industry from when I started. When I was moving from
company to company, I was probably the only female there. “There were times when my managers on site wouldn’t listen to me because I was a female, and I would have to stand my ground. But now there are women in leadership roles and working on site in things like traffic control. Even our female cadets are fantastic. “Having women in the interview process is also so important. I will always make sure that, as well as skillset, we are looking at attitude and mindset, and giving young girls the opportunity to do the same work as their male counterparts.” And for Ms Vorng, who claims she has never been good at maths or science, this type of support is crucial. “I think lots of girls fear STEM careers because it means they need to be good at maths and science, but honestly, I still don’t know my times tables and my kids always laugh at me. “Of course, there are still times when I doubt myself, especially because I’m not a native speaker. So I always feel like I need to do more to showcase myself. “But the things I have gone through have made me more resilient.” Between her career success and the masterful way she manages the busyness of her personal life, Ms Vorng is an example of what women can achieve when they set their mind to it, engineering or otherwise. “My home life is hectic. I have four kids who are in school and play sports. My husband also works in the construction industry and has early starts, so my mornings are filled with making lunches and their favourite fried rice for afterschool snacks, before hopping on virtual meetings. So by 10am, I have already done half a day’s work. “A lot of the time your mindset is the key drive, especially for women who are often made to feel that you can’t have a successful career while being a wife and a mum. “But we underestimate our power as females. “We can do just as much as our male counterparts.”
Police probe alleged road-rage incident in Cranbourne Police are investigating an alleged road-rage collision in Cranbourne on Saturday 10 February. A motorcyclist and a driver of a blue Audi Sedan ran into a dispute on Thompsons Road in Cranbourne at about 7.50pm. It is alleged the motorcycle rider pulled up alongside the Audi and punched the mirror of the vehicle before continuing ahead. The Audi has then accelerated into the motorcycle resulting in the rider being thrown from their bike and colliding with a vehicle travelling in the other direc-
tion, it is alleged. The motorcyclist, a 25-year-old Cranbourne East man, was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The driver of the car, a 21-year-old Clyde North man stopped after the collision. Investigations into the incident are ongoing. Anyone who witnessed the collision or the lead-up, has CCTV or dashcam footage, or any other information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
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Teeing off for Cornerstone The annual Take a Swing for Charity Golf Day is set to raise funds for well-loved Dandenong charity Cornerstone. A target of more than $50,000 will help build a multi-purpose space at Cornerstone for storing food items and emergency relief as well as a drop-in space at its community garden. It will help double the centre’s hours of operation and support up to 300 extra people a week. Already, Cornerstone provides multiple sitdown breakfasts, lunches or dinners per week, along with emergency food parcels, a mobile laundry and shower and a community health nurse for the homeless. “We just had one of our biggest lunches for this year,” chief executive Naomi Paterson said. “We’re seeing more people and lots of new faces in crisis at the moment - people struggling with bills and regular payments and struggling to find affordable housing.” The 15th annual golf day, jointly supported by Greater Dandenong Council and industry sponsors, is being held at Kingston Heath - one of the finest golf clubs in the world and host to the 2028 President’s Cup. It has long been regarded as a chance for businesses to give back to the community. The event has raised $650,000 for 17 local charities, helping thousands experiencing food insecurity, poverty, homelessness, domestic violence and health issues. Funds have also supported programs to remove barriers to employment and to assist people with disabilities. Organiser Sandra George advised for those not into golf to consider donating an auction item or attending the dinner and auction. Take A Swing for Charity Golf Day is on Tuesday 20 February at Kingston Heath Golf Club. Details: Sandra George at sandra.george@cgd. vic.gov.au or 0419 362 745.
Greater Dandenong mayor Lana Formoso and Cornerstone chief executive Naomi Paterson take a swing at Kingston Heath ahead of the charity golf Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS day on 20 February. 386693
‘Valuable habitats’: Biodiversity makeover for saved park A recently-saved parkland in Noble Park is blooming with native grasses and wildflowers as part of a new council design. In 2021, Greater Dandenong Council bought the parkland with a stand of 26 river red gum trees from the developers of Yarraman Village estate. It averted the woodland’s destruction after VCAT approved a further eight townhouses on the Hanna Street reserve. Since striking the deal, the council’s parks officers have been transforming the site. The new gardens have supported the continued good health of the red gums and created an attractive space for humans and wildlife, a council spokesperson said. It started with an assessment of tree health, then a plan to repair soil health. Building rubble was removed and mulching and understorey flora was planted at the
Wildflowers in the biodiverse garden in Hanna Street, Noble Park. 386536 Picture: GARY SISSONS base of trees. Two native grass species Weeping Grass and Wallaby Grass have been used as part of
a successful turf trial. “Historically lawns in Greater Dandenong have consisted of exotic grasses from over-
seas, which can become problematic weeds when they escape managed lawns,” a council spokesperson said. “Native grasses benefit a biodiverse environment.” Bollards were also installed to keep out vehicles. The project is part of the council’s program of planting ‘biodiverse gardens’ across the city. “Through careful plant selection and appropriate garden management practices, Biodiverse Gardens help turn open space into valuable habitats for native species - including the Yellow-Tailed Black Cockatoo,” the spokesperson said. “A healthy biodiverse environment is also essential for human health and wellbeing.” For information on creating gardens for wildlife, go to greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/ gardens-for-wildlife
'Elmo's Circus Dream' is coming to Bunjil Place, Narre Warren!
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WHAT’S ON Various activities are held throughout the month. For more information, phone Pam on 0427 067 823 or Kevin on 0455 877 737 or e-mail probuspakenhameast@gmail.com.
Duck race at Noojee Hotel Saturday March 16 from noon to 5pm at the Nooj Pub River Flat. Each year, Variety Bash teams band together and organise a family friendly event aiming to raise as much money as possible for disabled and disadvantaged kids of Australia. Bring your family and join in on the fun, as there will be two duck races in the Latrobe River behind the hotel, an ice cream van, kids amusements, a petting zoo, market stalls, face painting, a barbecue and much more.
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Housing Support and Advice Are you experiencing homelessness? At risk of having no safe place to live? Living in low-cost accommodation with no support? Visit the Pakenham Library and have a chat with a support worker to discuss available options and resources. Every Wednesday between 2pm to 4pm. Bookings are not required. If you require more information, please phone Pakenham Library on 5940 6200.
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Open mic for artists Cardinia Creative Community is a space for animators, artists, musicians, writers, poets, comedians, actors, dreamers, visionaries, dancers, storytellers and creators to come together to support one another to make dreams come true. The group meets on the last Friday of the month from 6.30pm to 8.30pm, at Chathly’s Kitchen in Officer at 43 Siding Ave, Officer. For more information, visit www.facebook. com/groups/870966037793058
Casey Cardinia Life Activities Club Upper Beaconsfield CFA members Mike, Nancy, Ian, Stefan and Harrison manned the sausage sizzle at last year’s Upper Beaconsfield Village Festival with a helping hand from Pakenham MP Emma Vulin. 320120
Upper Beaconsfield Village Festival
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The Upper Beaconsfield Village Festival is running from 9am to 3pm on Sunday 18 February at the Upper Beaconsfield Community Centre at 10-12 Salisbury Road. Kicking off with the annual Tower Run event at 8am at Charing Cross Reserve, the event
Riding for the Disabled Australia To gain an understanding of the Riding for the Disabled Australia (RDA Pakenham) and meet the horses, riders and volunteers, attend the RDA open day. The open day will take place from 10am to 2pm on 17 February 2024 on the corner of Bald Hill Rd and 5 Mile Rd. For any inquiries call or text Liz on 0407 442 231
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Family history classes Berwick Pakenham Historical Society are holding a series of family history classes run by Heather Arnold and Jane Rivett-Carnac on the 3rd Thursday of the month from February to November. Classes commence 15 February at 11am to noon at the museum at 85 Princes Highway, Pakenham with entry via the service road at James Street. No booking required.
·Begin your family research
Narre Warren and District Family History Group Inc is hosting a session on Wednesday 21 February at the Cranbourne Library Centreto help with easy ways to find your local family history.
Group 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 having to use Ancestry or Find my Past.
will also feature an art and photography exhibition, a motorbike expo, Men’s Shed kids crafts, CFA, CWA, SES all in attendance, rides for all ages, food trucks, stalls, stage acts, entertainment, circus and imaginative play for the little kids, face painting, tennis and more. For more information, visit ubvillagefest. org.au
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Bunyip Show A community show once a year which families can attend. Please encourage your friends and family to attend from 9am to 3pm and get behind this local community event. On Sunday 24 March at the Bunyip Recreation Reserve.
2024 Parklea Pakenham Show Wheels on the Farm
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Saturday 16 March, PB Ronald Reserve. Free entry to the show featuring rural excellence, marvellous art and craft displays, iconic events and competitions, multi-cultural demonstrations along with new and returning attractions for people of all ages. For more information or to enquire about a trade stand, email pakenhamshow1@bigpond.com.
Probus Club of Pakenham East
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The Probus Club of Pakenham East is encouraging new members to join. Meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month at the Cardinia Club, commencing at 10am. A short meeting is followed by morning tea and the opportunity to get to know members prior to the introduction of the guest speaker.
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 great afternoon teas, day/short and long trips away via (coach/ flights), 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 the club by visiting 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 0468 363 616.
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Berwick Springs VIEW Club Affiliated with The Smith Family, the Berwick Springs VIEW Club is a not-for-profit organisation, with the aim to fundraise to support Learning for Life students. The club currently supports seven students of varying ages with their education expenses and are about to take on an eighth student. The club meets on the first Monday of each month in the Berwick Springs Hotel function room from 11.30am, where members enjoy a lunch and then host a guest speaker. For more information, contact Shirley on 0419 878 481 or email berwicksprings.viewclub@ gmail.com
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BUSINESS PROFILE
Roll up to Elmo’s circus Step right up and join the spectacle of Elmo’s Circus Dream tour coming to Narre Warren. This thrilling theatre show takes you on an enchanting journey with Elmo and your Sesame Street favourites as they discover their hidden talents and dreams at the circus. Get ready to be entertained by their amazing acts, catchy songs, and heart-warming moments that will leave you smiling from ear to ear. It all begins with Elmo’s enchanting bedtime story about the circus. As Elmo falls asleep, he is magically transported to his dreamtime circus where he is warmly greeted by his friends Abby, Cookie Monster, Grover, Bert, and Ernie. The show bursts into high energy as the talented cast sings and dances to the iconic Sesame Street theme song, but with a twist -they are embarking on an exciting adventure to the circus. With their vibrant costumes and catchy tunes, they express their deep desire to join the circus and become part of its magical experience. From hilarious clowning and daring stunt attempts to mesmerizing dog acts and captivating dance routines, the stage comes alive with their boundless energy, skill, and infectious enthusiasm. But the excitement doesn’t stop there. Brace yourself as internationally renowned circus performers take the stage, showcasing their extraordinary talents. Prepare to be spellbound by their impressive acrobatic displays, jaw dropping juggling acts, and mind-bending illusions that will leave you in awe at their incredible feats. Elmo’s Circus Dream is more than just a show – it’s an immersive experience that ignites the imaginations of children, encourages self-expression and teaches valuable life lessons in a fun and engaging way. Get ready to be dazzled as the magic of the
Elmo will be joined by popular Sesame Street friends during the show.
Elmo joins a spectacular circus show coming to Bunjil Place this month. circus unfolds before your eyes, leaving you with unforgettable memories and a renewed belief in the power of dreams.
Magic tricks are a part of Elmo’s Circus Dream.
Elmo’s Circus Dream is at Bunjil Place Theatre, 2 Patrick Northeast Drive, Narre Warren on Saturday 24 February 10.30am, 1pm and
3.30pm and Sunday 25 February 10.30am, 1pm and 3.30pm. Bookings: bunjilplace.com. au
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Call or visit us online! networkclassifieds.com.au Thursday, 15 February, 2024
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STAR NEWS 21
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Football family at Catani By David Nagel There’s something special about the football club - and the people that play for it - at Catani. It’s an amazing place where special memories are made, and strong friendships are formed, in a small community that is as tight as any you will ever see. And the opportunity has now arrived for young families to join the party after the Catani Junior Football Club recently became affiliated with the West Gippsland Junior Football League. It means Catani has now become a standalone junior football club once again; with a new and vibrant committee keen to make the dream of having Under 10s, 12s and 14s pull on the famous navy blue at Taplins Road this season. And there’s a very strong incentive for families to make it happen. Not only is Catani looking for new players to join its family-friendly community, but the club is offering ‘No-Fee’ football for those who play at the club. Catani JFC President Rhiannon McFarlane explains in more detail. “We’ve been very fortunate to have some great sponsors and have some tremendous donations come in, so we’re offering ‘No-Fee’ football for all players,” McFarlane said. “That’s everything, all uniforms, even a training top, all your fees, everything for free. “We understand the cost of living is making it hard for everyone, so it’s a great opportunity for people to get involved at a great club and do it without the added costs. “Catani is not far from the bigger towns around the region, so we’re really hoping we can attract young families through the doors.” The Catani JFC president said it was massively exciting to have the junior club back in town. “It’s really important for small communities like Catani to have juniors,” McFarlane said. “The football club at Catani is so important to the community and in order to keep that thriving we need to get people in young and playing juniors. “It’s a really strong family club; we know names like the McFarlane’s, McDonald’s, Fitzpatrick’s, Williams’ and all of those, and we just want people to come out and enjoy the atmosphere that we’ve known about for so long. “We’ve got a vibrant committee, full of energy and passion, and we’re keen to have a great year and build it up over the years.
Back row from left; Jackson Peacock, Cash Jenkins, Darryn Jenkins, Antonia McFarlane, Rhiannon McFarlane (President), Jacqui Williams (Secretary) Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS and Lauren Peacock (Treasurer). Front row; Jake Williams, Luke Williams and Alex Peacock. 387841 “It’s one club at Catani; seniors, juniors, netball…we’re one club and we all take care of each other.” McFarlane explained that boys and girls of all levels are all welcome to play in ‘Mixed’ competitions at the club. “We’d love to have a standalone girls’ team down the track, but right now all of these teams will be mixed for boys and girls,” she said. “We’ve been accepted into the West Gippsland Junior Football League, so we play clubs like Nar Nar Goon, Tooradin, Kooweerup, Warragul, Drouin, Nyora…all those towns…and that’s really exciting. “If we can field 10s, 12s and 14s…that would be amazing.” Catani Junior Football Club will launch its season at the ‘Friday Night Lights’ family night, beginning at the Catani football ground at 5.30pm this Friday 16 February. Launch? There will be a jumping castle, a slip-andslide, inflatables, people in costumes, and the club will start registering players. McFarlane said there’s one thing that can be guaranteed. “Whoever comes along can expect a warm welcome; everyone belongs here; everyone, of
Luke Williams can’t wait to play for the Catani Junior Football Club this season. 387841 all ages and abilities, will be made to feel part of the club,” she said. “We want everyone to feel welcome and feel
like they have a place to call home. “Our priority is to have kids out on the field and having fun.”
Moon rises quickly for Stockdale after four straight wins By David Nagel A locally-trained Pakenham galloper has captured the imagination of the racing world after a rags-to-riches rise through the ranks and winning four races in 13 days! Pakenham trainer Frankie Stockdale has found the secret to success for his six-yearold gelding Dubai Moon, who made it four wins in less than two weeks on his home track at Pakenham on Thursday night. Stockdale shocked the racing world when he ran Dubai Moon at Moe on Saturday 27 January, just 24 hours after an eight-length win at Hanging Rock on Australia Day. Dubai Moon saluted once again, with Stockdale backing him up just five days later at Pakenham on Thursday 1 February. He once again clobbered his rivals, winning by five lengths, before making it four from four just a week later on Thursday night. Stockdale can’t believe his turnaround in form. “He was getting beat at the picnics, but should have been winning races all the time, I thought, on his trackwork,” he said. “His working was real good, we put him over a few steeplechases to wake him up a bit and now he’s putting in, he’s trying, he wasn’t 22 STAR NEWS
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Thursday, 15 February, 2024
Frankie Stockdale, middle of the five, with connections of Dubai Moon after his runaway win at Pakenham. 388789 trying too hard, that’s all. “He doesn’t have to do a lot, he’s hard, tough, fit now, we tick him over, keep him happy, eating and drinking, and he’s fine.” Stockdale may aim for five wins in 21 days at Mooney Valley on Friday night, but the horse will always come first. “It’s a nice little race for him, a Benchmark-64 again, so sort of like the same race he just won,” he said. “But he might have felt it a bit today; I had a look at him in the yard afterwards, he was having a bit of a puff…he knew he’d been around, so we might just pull up a bit.”
The Frankie Stockdale-trained Dubai Moon wins his fourth race in 13 days at Pakenham on Pictures: MORGAN HANCOCK/RACING PHOTOS Thursday night. 388789 pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
SPORT
A familiar sight as Kooweerup’s Chris Bright punishes one to the boundary. 388170
Devon Meadows celebrates after keeper Will Halton holds on to a hot chance to remove the dangerous Luke McMaster. 388170
Dillon delivers for Demons By David Nagel It feels a little strange to write this - but three teams that lost by a combined total of 463 runs walked away with their heads held high in the CCCA Premier Division on Saturday. An extraordinary opening day of round 12 left Merinda Park (368), Carlisle Park (447) and Clyde (400) with virtually impossible runchases on the weekend, but all three acquitted themselves well. Normally you would expect one of the bottom three teams in the competititon to roll over and die in such circumstances, but the three remaining teams in the relegation battle can head into the final two rounds of the season with their confidence in check. The one game that retained a competitive balance heading into day-two was the clash between Kooweerup (9/255) and Devon Meadows (9/228) at Denhams Road, where the Demons had a tricky run-chase on their hands. And at 2/31 it became even trickier after Lucas Ligt (16-3-55-3) and Tom Rowe (10.1-0-402) removed Lachie Ramage (1) and Suchintha Lakshan (3) in quick succession. Kooweerup’s two big guns - Luke McMaster (36) and Chris Bright (58) - then chipped away nicely at the total, but the Demons were 4/114 with both of those players in the sheds. We might look back at this game as the ‘changing of the guard’ for Kooweerup, with Steven Dillon (75) and Mitch Davey (40) taking responsibility to get their team across the line. It’s no coincidence that Dillon and Davey were chosen as co-captains for the Demons’ successful Kookaburra Cup campaign recently, with both recognised as future leaders of the club. At age 29, Dillon has already experienced leadership responsibilities throughout his career at other clubs, but held no such place in that ‘leadership’ status at Kooweerup. That domain was held by Bright, Michael Giles and now McMaster, but Dillon’s growth as a cricketer has been outstanding. This has well-and-truly been his breakout season, with 338 runs to his name; 157 (82 not out and 75) of those being match-winning. He also sits equal-12th in the competition with the ball, taking 15 wickets for the season. While Dillon has matured as a cricketer, Davey looks finally set to realise his enormous potential after back injuries threatened to ruin a highly-promising junior career. Standing roughly 195cm, his combination of pace, bounce, and being a lefty, makes him a difficult proposition to handle. And his clean hitting also makes him dangerous with the bat. Both forms of his game are still nowhere near their top, but Saturday’s innings will give him the confidence to take things to the next level. Dillon and Davey put on a crucial partnership of 80, taking the score to 4/194 and the Demons to relatively safe ground. They made hard work of the remaining 35 runs for victory…passing the Panthers seven down. Cody Miller (18) then made his highest Premier Division score for the season, in a campaign that has only consisted of six hits. Who knows…those runs could be highlyvaluable come late March. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
CASEY CARDINIA CRICKET ASSOCIATION
PREMIER REVIEW - ROUND 12 - DAY 2
Steven Dillon continued his breakout season for Kooweerup with a match-winning 75 against Devon Meadows. 388170 Ligt took bowling honours for the Panthers, with his three wickets well supported by Rowe and Lucas Carroll (14-1-78-2). Kooweerup host Merinda Park in round 13, while Devon Meadows face a tough trip to ladder leaders Tooradin. Clyde (9/288) will take a healthy dose of momentum into this week’s crunch game against Carlisle Park after the Cougars produced their highest score of the season against Tooradin (5/399). The Cougars produced an incredible looking scorecard, with the top-10 on their list all making double figures. Nick Miles (74) knocked in his first halfcentury for the season, while classy left-hander Michael Vandort (54) produced his highest score from 12 completed innings. Teddy Fonseka (38) and skipper Zac Davis (25) were others to shine bright as the Cougars did well to bat out their 80 overs. The Seagulls threw the ball around on the weekend, with nine bowlers having a trundle. Josh Lownds (3/30) completed a spectacular all-round performance - backing up his 116 from day one - while Ben Mantel (2/23) chimed in with the last two wickets to fall. The Gulls host Devon Meadows this week,
while the Cougars head to Carlisle Park for a must-win encounter. The Cougars just need to win to confirm their Premier Division status next season. Carlisle Park (212) proved it will be a tough nut to crack for the Cougars this week after the Vikings batted deep against Cardinia (3/446). There’s no ‘rule-book or master-plan’ on how to bat when you’re chasing 447 for victory, but the Vikings decided it was best to dig in for the long haul. Hasintha Jayasuriya (55) took his seasontally to 291 with an impressive second halfcentury, while skipper Ben Perry (60) broke through the 300-run barrier after a back-toback 50. Perry has now made 331 for the season and is the highest scoring Viking, just ahead of Kasun Balasuriya (325). Jaan Balasuriya (23) and David Nutting (17) made some valuable lower-order runs to push the home side past 200. For the Bulls, skipper Dean Henwood (3/32) jumped into the top-10 wicket-takers for the season with a typically tidy spell, while Matt Welsh (3/44) joined his captain in the threewicket club. Josh Browne (2/40) was also impressive…
Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS
taking the key wickets of Perry and Mark Henry (11). Cardinia host Pakenham this week in what should be a cracking game of cricket. And Pakenham (8/367) had little trouble defending its huge score against Merinda Park (249) after James Close (3/48) did some early damage with the ball. The improving youngster removed Tyson Bertrand (3) and Bevin Corneille (15) before the score had reached 20 to put the Cobras on the back foot from the get-go. The silky-skilled Daniel McCalman (64) looked in glittering touch for the home-side, while Luke Dinger (79) surprised with a midorder cameo. Dinger faced 124 balls and cracked 10 boundaries, adding significantly to the 12 previous runs he had made in the Premier Division this season. Jordan Bertrand (22) and Rajan Rana (18) also dug in for the Cobras, who perished with 13 overs left to bat. Dale Tormey (2/48) and Chris Smith (2/49) joined Close as multiple wicket-takers for the Lions; with Smith backing up his magnificent 210 not out from day one. Three Votes: C Smith!
Thursday, 15 February, 2024
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