News - Berwick Star News - 22nd February 2024 by Star News Group

BERWICK

Thursday, 22 February, 2024

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2024

BERWICK

Berwick and District Agricultural and Horticultural Society Inc

Celebrating 175 years together A-Z plus more! Art, alpacas, cattle, carnival rides, cooking, craft, dogs, facepainting, fireworks, food, goats, horses, horticulture, motorbikes, photography, ponyrides, showbags, stage entertainment, trade stalls, woodchop. Saturday 24th & Sunday 25th February Akoonah Park, Princes Highway, Berwick Proudly supported by

0407 866 049 Visit Website & Facebook for details including competitions.

www.berwickshow.org.au

Open H orse Show Monday 11th Ma rch

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2024 BERWICK SHOW

FOCUS ON … BERWICK SHOW

Andy Fyfe (committee), Matt Clark (sponsor from First National Neilson Partners), Josh Lane (representing Central Victoria Axemen Association), Willem Boon (committee) and Tom Gibson (committee). 388268

Josh Lane representing Central Victoria Axemen Association. 388268

Woodchop contest returns By Emma Xerri The woodchop is making a return after a court ruling inhibiting timber harvesting saw the competition axed. For the Berwick Show, which has hosted the event since the 1970s, the competition has found a way to go on amid the ruling, by moving to sourcing their timber from a privately owned coupe, not from VicForests. And the return of the competition is bringing with it some of Victorian woodchopping’s most renowned names.

“We’ve got the Meyer family, which is a huge family of axemen,” Berwick Show organiser Andy Fyfe said. “As well as Laurence O’Toole Senior and some of the other O’Toole’s, who are quite a famous name amongst the woodchopping community. “Of the 30 choppers who have entered, we’ve also got some four females having a chop as well. “And the accuracy of the choppers and the talent they have to cut the wood without cut-

ting their foot off is something in itself. “It’s quite dangerous and the axes are so sharp, so this along with the noise and the commentary make it exciting to watch.” A variety of different competitions will run across the event, with different grades and log sizes, including a tree competition where choppers have to climb up a tree pole and chop the log at the top of the pole. The event will also feature hand saw and chainsaw competitions, which tend to bring enthusiastic crowds of their own.

“The chainsaws are so noisy, so the kids come running from miles away just to find out what the noise is,” Mr Fyfe said. But while the show has sourced a temporary fix, a change in timber might be necessary to secure the event moving forward. “All the shows across the country have competitions, so being able to secure enough timber is a problem,” Mr Fyfe added. “It looks like the competitions are going to have to make the move to pine like the woodchopping in Europe.”

Remarkable milestone for local event steeped in history For 175 years, the Berwick Show has brought together people from the local district - and afar - to celebrate the agriculture and horticulture industries. And as the region has grown, so has the show. This year’s two-day extravaganza features motorbikes, woodchop and carnival rides. There’s also aplacas, cattle, goats, dogs and more. And don’t forget about the art, cooking, craft, facepainting, food, photography, show bags, entertainment and trade stalls. Plus the fireworks! There is truly something for everyone at the 2024 Berwick Show over Saturday and Sunday, 24 February and 25 February. The Open Horse Show will be held on Monday 11 March.

Animals being washed before showing at the 2023 Berwick Show. 320809

Gus (Red Kelpie), Pepper (Border Collie) and Archie (Kelpie) at last year’s show. 320809

Important Notice

BERWICK SHOW CELEBRATING 175 YEARS

Fireworks will once again be an attraction at this year’s Berwick Show on Saturday night Saturday 24th February at approx. 9.00pm on Akoonah Park Arena. As in previous years, the fireworks will be held only after consultation with local emergency service organisations, in particular the CFA.

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FOCUS ON … BERWICK SHOW

Strumming up country By Matthew Sims Officer South musician Jay Santilli is set to bring her unique and personal country style to the Berwick Show this weekend. The Australian country music artist, who recently took part in the Star Maker competition at the Tamworth Country Music Festival, will be the headline act on the main stage. “I’m so excited to be back performing at The Berwick Show, especially to be headlining the night, something which is really special to me,” she said. “I grew up going to the Berwick Show as a teenager and have performed a few times over the years so I’m really looking forward to coming back and sharing some of my new songs and a few of my favourite covers with everyone.

“One of the things I love about the Berwick Show is the love and support the community has for local artists.” Santilli said she is excited to take on the Berwick Show main stage after the Tamworth Country Music Festival and ahead of her trip to Nashville in July. “I’ve just come back from the Tamworth Country Music Festival where I was a part of this year’s Star Maker competition, so I’m really looking forward to jumping back up on stage and sharing some stories with everyone,” she said. “This performance will be a great warm up for me as I look forward to travelling around the country to tour and then make my way to Nashville in July to record and write some new songs with some incredible writers there.”

South East country musician Jay Santilli is excited to be the headline main stage act at this year’s Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS Berwick Show. 375384

Jasper (12), Tanjil (10), Sierra (7) from The Curls, who all performed live on stage at last year’s Berwick Show. 320809

Listen to Sasha Rechichi at the show. 245182

Weekend stage program has something for everyone studio

Saturday 24 February

· 10.30am The Curls - vocalists · 11am Kane Imeson - vocalist/guitarist · 11.30am Sasha Rechichi - vocalist · 12pm Sterling Calisthenics Club - calisthenics display · 12.30pm Tim Mason Magic - magician · 1pm Cathy-Lea Dance Studio - dance school · 2pm Masquerade Talent Studio - talent studio · 2.10pm Your Best Voice - vocal studio · 2.40pm Masquerade Talent Studio - talent

· 2.50pm Chantelle and Friends - jazz combo Vocal Performance School - singing · 3.30pm school Cranbourne Lions Concert Band’ · 4.30pm concert band Nia and Bill McMartin - vocalist · 5.30pm and guitarist mister sister - blues vocalist and gui· 6pm tarist · 6.30pm Taya Butler - vocalist · 6.50pm Breanne Peters - vocalist and band · 7.30pm MELANi - vocalist

· 8pm Jay Santilli - vocalist · 9pm Stage closes and fireworks Sunday 25 February · 10.30am REN - vocal duo Dance On Academy - dance · 10.50am school Savanah Academy of Performing · 11.20am Arts - performing arts school Evolve Performing Arts - dance · 11.50am school · 12.20pm Tim Mason Magic - magician The Triple Threat Academy’- per· 12.50pm forming arts school

· 1.20pm Midnight Blues - swing band · 1.50pm Ready, Set, Dance - dance school · 2.20pm Fountain Gate Secondary College - performing arts students · 2.40pm Riviere School of Dance - dance school · 3pm Songbird Performing Arts and Youth Theatre - theatre school · 3.30pm Sian Dowler - vocalist · 4pm Sonyta and Emma - vocalists · 4.30pm Stage closes

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Congratulations to Berwick Show on an outstanding

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Thursday, 22 February, 2024

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FOCUS ON … BERWICK SHOW

Celebrating 175 years There are plenty of reasons to head down to the Berwick Show this weekend - with a series of special, and one-off, events. These include a Produce Paddock - only on the Saturday - which will feature local farmers and producers, including a local brewery and gin distillery. You can also check out wooden cut-outs of sheep, horses and cows which have been decorated by local children. The Men’s Shed kindly made the cut-outs, with the works to don the laneway on the way to the animal nursery. There are some special classes at this year’s Berwick Show to mark 175 years. Alongside the usual sections, including art, +

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photography, cooking and craft, among others, there is also: Craftwork - celebrating agriculture exhibits (cattle, sheep, alpaca, goat and poultry). One piece of work any medium eg. knitted, crochet, sew, patchwork, recycled, ceramic, drawing, papercraft, diamond art with open and junior sections. Cooking - old recipe book. General display - old dated ribbon, sash, trophy or prize card won at the Berwick Show. Photography - agriculture theme, with open, junior and photograph taken at the Berwick Show sections.

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Pat with her Year of the Rabbit entry that won Best Exhibit in the Special Classes Homecraft Open at the 2023 Berwick Show. 320809

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FOCUS ON … BERWICK SHOW

New perspective on show By Matthew Sims As one of the youngest presidents leading the Berwick Show in recent times, Berwick and District Agricultural and Horticultural Society Inc president Andrew Spierings is keen to continue to see the Berwick Show pay tribute to its 175-year history while moving into the modern age. “Those traditions are very important,” he said. “We like to keep the essence of those traditions alive and display the best in agriculture and produce.” Mr Spierings said the focus was also on providing a fun day for people of all ages. “As a family event, it’s important that we provide everything people of all ages can enjoy for a fun day,” he said. “We see it as part of our mission.” Mr Spierings said their mission also reached to keep children interested in agricultural and pastoral elements, via attractions like the petting zoo. “There is perhaps now less connection with that agricultural background,” he said. “Children can now enjoy an experience with animals they might not get to meet every day. “That is a very different experience.” Mr Spierings said reaching 175 years was a “significant milestone” for the show society to reach. “It’s a culmination of many generations of people,” he said. Mr Spierings said other highlights include the Kidding Around kids activities, including pony rides, boutique and local food offerings in the produce paddock and the fireworks.

“Putting on a show is an awful lot of work,” he said. “The moment that always makes it worth it is the fireworks. “That sight is the moment you know it’s all worthwhile.” Mr Spierings said the show is only possible with the support of its volunteers and the committee. “These things can’t run without volunteers,” he said. “We’re very lucky to have a very well-established and large group of volunteers. “We’re always looking for additional people to help.” Mr Spierings said the show committee was also indebted to all of the show’s sponsors, including Casey Council as a major sponsor. “We look forward to welcoming the community,” he said. “We are confident that it will be a wonderful day for a family day out.” Casey Council administrators chair Noelene Duff PSM said she encouraged all Casey residents to attend the event and join in on the fun. “The Berwick Show is one of the longestrunning events in the City of Casey and is a much-loved tradition for many members of our community,” she said. “Council is proud to once again support this wonderful event that brings together an array of local groups and businesses across the agricultural and horticultural sectors to promote their programs and produce. “Through grant funding and event support, council is proud to work alongside the Berwick and District Agricultural and Horticultural Society in the delivery of a meaningful and valued event for the community.”

Berwick Show president Andrew Spierings brings experience to the role, having also volunteered Picture: ROB CAREW at the Bunyip Show. 152242

Creating stars since 1990 www.cathy-lea.com PERFORMING 1-2PM AT BERWICK SHOW FOOD COURT STAGE

Charlotte enjoyed the fun activities at last year’s show - pumping water the old fashioned way.

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BERWICK SHOW ON 175 YEARS

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From the history books By Ava Cashmore The Berwick Show Society traces back through the history books to the Port Phillip Farmer’s Society which was established in 1848. The Port Phillip Farmer’s Society has been collectively accepted as the forebear of the current agricultural movement. It was originally formed as the Moonee Ponds Farmers’ Society but changed its name to the Port Phillip Farmers’ Society in the same year as it was formed, namely 1848. In the 1850s, the society branched out to service more regions. Among these new branches, there were two groups representing Mornington, Bacchus Marsh and Gisborne. The founding of the Mornington Farmers’ Society in 1856 was a major step in recognising Cranbourne as an important agricultural centre. The society owned its own market house and shows were held regularly. In 1860, the society was recognised for the improvement it had made in the stock of the district. In the late 80s, permanent grounds for the Mornington Farmers Society were obtained from Sir W J Clarke of Narre Warren where the first show was held in March 1891. Three years later it moved to Buchanan Park Berwick. The Berwick Show Society got off to a very rocky start. The Annual Report of 14 July 1919 records that “Owing to the influenza epidemic, the annual show, which was fixed to take place in March last, was abandoned”. As Melbourne grew The Berwick Show became a very important community event with-

Watching the opening of the Berwick Show in 1967 are, from left, Mr L Moran (show society president), Mr Alex Buchanan MHR, Lady Casey, Mr R Ridge (vice president), Lord Casey adressing the crowd, Mr B M Sneddon (Minister for Immigration), Mrs G Hosking (wife of shire president Gren Hosking), Mr L J Cochrane MLA and Mrs Knights. in the district with special trains running from Dandenong. In 1935 the visiting Royal H.R.H The Duke of Gloucester accepted Honorary Life Membership of the society. The Berwick Show of today is very different to that conducted 170 years ago.

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Agricultural and horticultural exhibits remain a significant component of the show. The Berwick Show’s cattle exhibit is one of the largest outside the Royal Melbourne. Currently, the Berwick Show aims to assist community groups like Scouts, Rotary, schools, churches and CFA by giving them an opportunity to promote themselves, promote the agricultural and horticultural industries within the district, educate the community regarding the rural history and heritage of the area and enhance the lives of the community, children in particular who may have never seen a farm animal.

While at the show, you may see long-time show attendee and Berwick resident Ann Keys riding her bike between stalls. “The Keys family has been involved in the show since the 1800s” she said, mentioning that she had “been doing trade space since 1994”. Ann stated that the show is “one lovely big community event”, with something for everybody. Whilst the show unfortunately does not “get volunteers like it used to” it is still a “huge community event”. For more information and event details, visit berwickshow.org.au

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Ann Keys from the Berwick Show Society Committee on her famous bike. 320809 Picture: ROB CAREW

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Show patrons enjoy an afernoon tea among the motors in 1925. berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

FOCUS ON … BERWICK SHOW

Record-breaking ’74 event By Ava Cashmore Fifty years ago marked the day the Berwick Show ran the most successful show in the 125 years of the society’s history, according to an article in the Gazette at the time. The Berwick Show offered a varied program, appealing to a record crowd of more than 4600 people, allowing the society to reap

a profit that would continue to develop and expand the show, it said. Gate takings that day were $3701.50, $657 more than the previous record. The 1974 show did increase the admissions price by 20c that year, from 60c to 80c, which may have accounted for some of the financial gain, however there were many factors contributing to this success, it said.

Stellar weather before and on the day of the show and the visually appealing atmosphere of Akoonah Park greatly improved the vibe on the day. Entries in all of the competitions across the show including the woodchopping and horse events obliterated old records. Nineteen-year-old Sandra Crow, of Clyde, won the “Sun” Country Show Girl at the show.

This champion Angora buck held the attention of these young people at the 1974 Berwick Show. The buck was exhibited by Capt L Meyer, Wongala Goat Stud, Hastings and the young admirers are Louise, Peter and Maree Batcherlor, from Mt Eliza.

Sandra was a secretary and worked locally in Berwick. Sandra wore a white frock and a jacket with a navy blue trim for the competition, and was crowned Miss Show Girl of 1974. The show recognised the leadership of society president Bert Rae, and his “dedicated band” of other officials who cooperated to coordinate such a successful event.

Nineteen-year-old Sandra Crow, of Clyde, won the “Sun” Country Show Girl at the 1974 Berwick Show.

2024 Berwick Show

175 Years Young Congratulations to the Berwick Show on celebrating its remarkable 175th anniversary! What an incredible milestone showcasing an enduring spirit and community dedication which continues to make our show a much-loved local event. As a Berwick local, I thank you for a lifetime of joyous memories and wish our Berwick Show every success for many more years to come.

1/31 Princes Hwy, Dandenong VIC 3175 AnnMarieHermansMP

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Ann-MarieHermans.com.au ann-marie.hermans@parliament.vic.gov.au Looking back more than 100 years. berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

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SPORT

From left, Rob Brown, Belinda Wilson MP, and Simon Fenech. 389423

Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

Lewins Turner and Simon Fenech embracing after their speeches. 389423

Fruitful expansion By Ethan Benedicto Fruit2Work announced the opening of its Hallam branch on Friday, 16 February, making it the first hub for the organisation in the southeast. The organisation is a not-for-profit social enterprise, as well as a registered charity that delivers fruit, milk and pantry items to workplaces. A factor that makes Fruit2Work stand out, however, is that they are known for providing opportunities to those who have been caught in the justice system. Providing these people with work and helping them turn a new leaf, Simon Fenech, the organisation’s general manager, said that the work is “hard, but rewarding”.

“As someone who has made mistakes, Fruit2Work is created by champions, and a champion in my eyes is someone who has lost their way and decided to do something different,” he said. Fenech himself had previously been involved with drugs and crime after a workplace accident in 2008, where he found that prescription medication and physical therapy did not ease the pain. With their other branch catering to Melbourne located in Laverton, this new branch will see a sizeable expansion of their operations and services. Titled the Lewins Hub, the branch was named after one of the organisation’s members, Lewins Turner.

Diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, Turner said that he owes Fruit2Work his life. “If I didn’t have Fruit2Work I’d be dead, I’ve got pancreatic cancer, you know what I mean? “There would have been no hope, even when I had my own place I was going downhill,” he said. Turner came down to Melbourne in 1995 and eventually found himself involved with drugs, until the end of 2018. When he was looking at going back to jail, Turner then decided to appeal bail and reached out for help through First Step, an organisation that supports people addicted to drugs and alcohol. It was there that he was suggested to Simon for work.

“I thought to myself that if I don’t do something drastic, I’m going to lose my place, lose my animals, and lose everything. “I owe Fruit2Work my life, to Simon and Rob who stuck by me - even when there were ups and downs.” Rob Brown, Fruit2Work’s chief chance creator who had his own challenges with the law, said that the organisation’s vision “resonated personally.” “To be able to give people a chance, who don’t typically get a chance, made a whole lot of sense. “Not just because it’s a nice thing to do, but it has societal impact and financial impacts as well. Continued page 11

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Casual facility hire Looking to hire a space on a casual basis? We offer a range of facility hire options from large halls to meeting rooms for your celebration, community group or organisation.

Casey Business Breakfast Ready to make your Casey business greener and more profitable? Join us for the Sustainability Business Breakfast on Tuesday 5 March at 6.45 am at Bunjil Place. Hear from inspiring leaders about the circular economy and enjoy a delicious breakfast while you network with like-minded Casey businesses. To book your spot, visit the Bunjil Place website or scan the QR code.

Last minute registrations for Clean Up Australia Day Join thousands of volunteers across Casey who will take part in Clean Up Australia Day on Sunday 3 March, as we work together to clean up rubbish from our open spaces and waterways. To sign up as a volunteer, visit the Clean Up Australia Day website.

To see what facilities are open for casual hire in 2024 and to submit an application, please visit our website. For more information, contact Council’s Community Facilities team on 9709 9288 or email facilitybookings@casey.vic.gov.au

Council Meetings Members of the community are welcome to attend the upcoming Council Meetings which are held in the Bunjil Place Function Room, 2 Patrick Northeast Drive, Narre Warren. Council Meetings start at 4.00 pm and are also live streamed through our Facebook page and YouTube channel. For more information on Council Meetings, or meeting minutes and agendas, visit our website. Upcoming Council Meetings: Tuesday 19 March Tuesday 16 April Tuesday 21 May Tuesday 28 May (Special Council Meeting) Tuesday 18 June

Provide feedback on a number of consultations currently open on our community engagement platform, Casey Conversations. Baden Powell Reserve playground concept design.

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Renewal notices will be sent out shortly, so now’s the best time to make sure your furry friend’s details are correct.

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Improving disability access and inclusion.

You may be eligible for a reduced registration fee or refund if you hold an eligible pensioner card, if your pet has recently been desexed or has passed away. To find out more, visit our website or scan the QR code.

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

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2 STAR NEWS

Thursday, 22 February, 2024

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NEWS

Jail time for burglars By Cam Lucadou-Wells A pair of brazen burglars who went on a twoweek spree of daylight break-ins across the South East have been jailed. Jovan Culibrk, 27, was found guilty by a Victorian County Court jury of four burglaries, two attempts, car stealing and other thefts. His accomplice Matthew Messenger, 28, pleaded guilty to burglary and theft charges as well as three car thefts. The June 2022 crime spate targeted homes in Narre Warren, Glen Waverley, Springvale South, Lynbrook, Berwick and Blackburn. It kicked off with Messenger’s $152 petrol drive-off in a stolen ute at a Narre Warren servo on 9 June. Later the same morning, Culibrk attempted to break into a CCTV-monitored home in Narre Warren. About 7am, an awoken resident heard a banging noise. He saw a masked Culibrk using a screwdriver to dislodge the back sliding door from its tracks. The resident screamed, and Culibrk escaped over a back fence and into the stolen ute with Messenger. The same day, the pair broke into a Glen Waverley home, stealing jewellery, $8000 cash, a passport, Medicare card and car keys. They returned hours later to steal the victim’s $36,500 Toyota Camry. Soon after, the burglars cased a Lynbrook home while in the Camry. They then broke in, opening the garage door and loading jewellery, a phone and a CCTV hard drive into the boot. They were however later identified on neighbours’ CCTV footage. Culibrk broke into a home in Berwick the same day, stealing jewellery and designer

The County Court of Victoria. Picture: AAP IMAGE/CON CHRONIS handbags. The victim told the court that the break-in instilled fear in her young children who were the first to discover the crime scene. On 11 June, the pair terrified residents in a Springvale South home. Culibrk tried to force his way in with a crowbar. After an occupant told them to “f*** off”, Messenger tried to kick in the front door. The resident armed himself with a kitchen knife and confronted the intruders, who then fled in a vehicle. In sentencing on 20 February, judge Damian Murphy noted the “major and continuing” impact on the victim who was unable to sleep and stayed up late monitoring his security cameras. Finally, Culibrk burgled a Blackburn home, stealing $10,000 of jewellery, passports, a will, keys, bank cards and bank account details. Later $1000 was withdrawn from the victim’s bank account.

The co-accused were arrested on 22 June in the stolen Camry at Culibrk’s mother’s house. Messenger was found with a prohibited Taser in his shorts pocket. A stolen Toyota HiAce van with stolen plates was also found at the property. Some of the items stolen from the burglaries were recovered at the scene. The Narre Warren-raised Culibrk’s rehabilitative prospects were rated as “fair”, according to Judge Murphy. At the time of the crime spree, Culibrk was on bail. He had a long history of committing burglaries, thefts, drug trafficking and driving offences. In the past, he’d re-offended while on a community corrections order and a drug treatment order. And his not-guilty plea showed a lack of insight and remorse, Judge Murphy said. On the other hand, during his latest remand, he’d completed a rehabilitation course and passed clean drug screenings. Judge Murphy said the WA-raised Messenger was entitled to “significant leniency”, with no prior convictions, a significant work history and an albeit late guilty plea. He’d shown remorse, shame and embarrassment over his crimes, and a desire to engage in psych therapy for anxiety and PTSD, the judge noted. On the other hand, Messenger is currently bailed over three outstanding burglaries and thefts at factories and warehouses. Culibrk was jailed for up to five-and-a-half years, with a three-year and three-month nonparole period. His term includes 607 days in pre-sentence remand. Messenger was jailed for up to three years and two months. He’ll be eligible for parole in 21 months.

Something for all with bumper Bunjil program By Emma Xerri Bunjil Place’s Summer Stage program has continued in the sparkliest of fashion with their Glitter Groove Queer Party. The program, which is running until the end of February, is taking over Bunjil Place’s outdoor plaza to deliver a range of ticketed and free events spanning everything from trivia nights to weekly yoga and the intriguingly named musical plants workshops. Taking to the plaza stage on Friday 9 February was an explosion of powerhouse performances and colourful self-expressions of love and diversity, as 150 attendees enjoyed Glitter Groove: The South-East’s Summer Queer Party. The evening was of particular importance to local members of the LGBTQIA+ community, who have long awaited such a public celebration of queerness after previous attempts throughout Casey were thwarted by conservative protest. But the clouds looming over past events were not enough to dim the sparkle of the

performers and their glittering looks, leading the crowd in a night of non-stop song and dance hosted by Brenda Bressed, and sharing in drinks and conversation with their favourite performers. While the upcoming events may be lacking in spandex and dazzling eyeliner, the remainder of the Summer Stage program promises to make up for it with fun-filled variety. Continuing every Sunday afternoon are weekly Sunday Sessions, along with the upcoming Quiz Meisters Trivia Night on Thursday 22 February, and Summer Sounds 2024 on Saturday 24 February. Weekly yoga is also taking place every Friday morning, and if yoga isn’t your scene, try your hand (or leg, or foot) at weekly pilates on a Wednesday. And the Summer Stage program has also ensured there is plenty in store for the kids, with after school workshops Kidstruments and Musical Plants now underway.

Kat Zowthabag.

Montego Homes had advertised house and land packages in the Casey South region, as well as Pakenham and Officer. 387659

Registration suspended Following the appointment of administrators to the Victorian builder Montego Homes, the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) has suspended the registration of the company’s nominee director Todd Searle (DB-U 60627) pending a show cause process relating to the causes of the administration and the company’s operating practices. The VBA issues an immediate suspension to protect consumers while a disciplinary process is completed. The VBA is concerned that almost $900,000 may have been received by Montego Homes Pty Ltd by way of deposit or otherwise, in relation to 64 sites where there had been no domestic building insurance obtained, as required. These allegations call into question the company’s operating practices regarding deposits and insurance and influenced the VBA’s decision to immediately suspend Mr Searle. The VBA is currently investigating these deposit-taking practices within the powers under the Building Act 1993 (the Act). Nominee directors are expected to act professionally and also have a statutory duty to ensure their companies comply with the Act and regulations, the VBA said. These are the reasons for proposing disciplinary action against Mr Searle personally, the VBA said. Mr Searle has been invited to show cause why the proposed disciplinary action should not be taken by making either a written or oral representation in response to the notice received. Mr Searle may apply to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal for review of the immediate suspension. Montego Homes had advertised house and land packages in Casey South region, Pakenham, and Officer. The builder went into voluntary administration in January, with Sam Kaso and Shaun Matthews of insolvency service Cor Cordis appointed as administrators to assess the best way to restructure or recapitalise the business.

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Thursday, 22 February, 2024

STAR NEWS 3

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For the love of community By Violet Li Clyde North resident, former Sri Lanka chess champion, early childhood teacher, and mum Vineetha Wijesuriya has been nominated as Citizen of the Year in the Casey Community Awards 2024 for her dedicated and excellent community service. An epitome of the best possible employment of multiple social identities, she runs weekend chess classes and free school chess sessions. She writes books to encourage children to connect with nature and distributes them free through councils and family daycare workers online. She makes her own Sri Lanka women’s magazine Aalokaa and distributes issues free through physical and online channels. She volunteers at different festivals and shows when she’s free. If you count on all the little good things she’s done, the list will probably not be exhaustive. “I am always doing a lot of community service. It’s in my blood,” Vineetha said. There are always behind-the-scenes stories to tell when it comes to an immigrant devoting her heart and soul to her new home. Looking back, every detail of her life slotted into a narrative of hardships and harvests, struggles and rebirth, and frustration and serendipity. Born in Colombo, Sri Lanka, in a family with two brothers and one sister, Vineetha lost her father to an accident at the age of 10. Her elder brother soon quit the university and shouldered the family responsibility to support his siblings’ education. Luckily, all the young ones were good at studies. Inspired by her sister who learnt chess from the school and eventually was selected to

Clyde North resident, former Sri Lanka chess champion, early childhood teacher, and mum Vineetha Wijesuriya. 389390 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS compete in the tournament, Vineetha decided she should also give it a go. And the rest, as they say, was history. Eleven Sri Lanka Chess Championships from 1989 to 2008, third place in the world varsity chess championship in Malaysia and representing Sri Lanka in 29 international chess events. In 2009, Vineetha came to Australia with her husband - who had a master’s degree to pur-

sue - and her 10-year-old son. A doctor in Sri Lanka, she soon discovered she could not practise in Australia because of the language requirements for a medical degree. At least two years of onshore study were required, but the family could not afford the hefty tuition fee at that time. Never a person to sulk, Vineetha quickly moved on to the silver lining behind the cloud. She joined a chess company called Chess Kids and became a coach in 20 Victorian schools. During the same period in the morning, she worked as an assistant librarian at the Resurrection Primary School in Keysborough. It was the period when she got the free time to play all sorts of chess tournaments in and for Australia. She won the Australian best female chess player award in the 2009 Australian Chess Championship. In 2012, she won the title again. She represented Australia in chess championships and won two gold medals: the 2012 Asian Amateur Women’s Chess Championship and the 2014 Oceania Chess Championship in the women’s category. After securing her Australian residence, the chess player aimed to transition back to a fulltime job. To be able to do that, she needed a degree. Education had been always Vineetha’s Plan B. She always believed education would take children further. “Children are the power in the society. When they grow up with a good education level, they will become good citizens,” she said. With a good deal of experience as a chess coach already, she forged ahead to complete

Certificate III and a Diploma of Children’s Services. She then worked for five years at Monash Children’s Centre as an educator and student supporter. Another five years were spent at YMCA Clyde North. During Covid, she graduated with a four-year Bachelor of Education degree within three years at Swinburne University and became an early childhood teacher. “It was not a very smooth life, but I think we met the right people,” Vineetha said, referring to her assistant librarian job at the Resurrection Primary School back in the day when she first set foot in Melbourne. “When I sent my son to that school, the principal offered me a job because they knew my previous learning. They also gave my son a scholarship,” she recalled. “We struggled and we worked hard to pay things. I once even delivered the Star’s papers.” Vineetha and her family eventually settled in Casey in 2016 after a house purchase, rounding off their nomadic way of living, typical among newcomers. They moved from town to town over the years. Keysborough, Ballarat, Glen Waverly, and the end of the circle, Clyde North. Thousands of kilometres from Sri Lanka, Vineetha still holds on to certain rituals from an early age: meditation. She meditates for half an hour to one hour every day. She goes to the temples when she has spare time. “Life is actually beautiful,” she said. Vineetha won the La Trobe Community Award in 2020 and 2024. She has also been nominated as Citizen of the Year in Casey in 2022.

Smooth travels: Major works finished ahead of schedule

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and reducing congestion for the 112,000 combined motorists who use these roads every day. Since construction began in 2022, the project has created more than 850 direct jobs, and more than 42,000 tonnes of asphalt have been laid. Victorian Minister for Transport Infrastructure Danny Pearson said they were getting on with delivering the biggest and most transformative suburban roads upgrade program in Victoria’s history across Melbourne’s outer suburbs. “This project will better connect local communities in Melbourne’s outer south east to jobs, healthcare, and education – while greatly improving traffic flow along Hall Road,” he said.

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Major works on the Hall Road upgrade are now complete, nine months ahead of schedule. Drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists will benefit from improved journeys in Melbourne’s outer south-east. This means 17,000 daily motorists can now use Hall Road’s 5.2 kilometres of new lanes and signalised intersections at McCormicks Road, Taylors Road, Western Port Highway, and Evans and CranbourneFrankston roads. The Hall Road upgrade project was delivered by equal funding of $141.25 million each from the Australian Government and the Victorian Government. Final asphalting works will be completed in March, with minor close-out works underway until late 2024. The Hall Road Upgrade will build on improvements already delivered through the Thompsons Road and Hallam Road Upgrades, along with improvements on the Western Port Highway and Lathams Road – significantly improving safety

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Clearing the backlog Hospital to face court

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Bruce MP Julian Hill has welcomed a clearing of a backlog in citizenships, partner visas and humanitarian visas in the past 12 months. He said the Government was “committed to cleaning up (former Home Affairs Minister) Peter Dutton’s shocking mess”, including 500plus new staff to clear the visa backlogs. “After a decade of Liberal decay and dysfunction, Peter Dutton left behind a complete mess, with over 1 million visa and citizenship applications backlogged in his black hole of a department. “For the first time in more than five years the Australia’s Humanitarian Program has been delivered in full, and wait times for almost every visa have been slashed.” Temporary partner visa finalisations were up 54 per cent in July-December 2023, compared to the same period in 2022. Permanent partner visas were up 158 per cent – the largest increase in at least 17 years, Mr Hill said. Despite a 23 per cent increase in applications, the permanent partner visa waiting list was down from 54,000 in June 2021 to 29,335. Citizenship approvals had also increased 13 per cent. “Efficient visa and citizenship processing is not a luxury for people in South East Melbourne - it’s an essential service in a multicultural society,” Mr Hill said. “Knowing that family members can visit for special occasions, and allowing families to be together.” Since February 2023, 14,390 Resolution of Status visas have been ‘fast tracked’ for refugees on Temporary Protection Visas or Safe Haven Enterprise Visas across Australia. As of 31 January, there were about a quarter (5685) of RoS applications remaining. “Thousands of TPV and SHEV holders lived

Wicki Wickiramasingham says many refugees are still waiting for permanent visas. 235665

Julian Hill welcomed the increase in citizenships and visas granted in the past year. 384998 Pictures: GARY SISSONS through years of migration limbo due to the previous Liberal Government’s policies,” Mr Hill said. “The majority of these visa holders, who have lived in Australia for a decade or more, have now been granted their permanent visa so they can build their lives and businesses with certainty.” However, refugee advocates say thousands of asylum seekers and refugees are still in wait. Dandenong-based advocate Wicki Wickeramasingham welcomed the Government’s progress but said long-frustrated RoS holders were still yet to reunite with their overseas families.

He cited the case of a refugee who was granted a RoS and had been estranged from his overseas partner and three adult daughters for 17 years. Despite paying $22,000 in fees, he has been waiting 12 months for family reunion visas. Also many asylum-seekers were languishing up to four years in the legal system to appeal against their visa refusals, Mr Wickeramasingham said. Others were still waiting for an interview after lodging visa applications several years ago. “People still in the courts are struggling. Some of them don’t have a Medicare card or work rights. They’re forced to work illegally for day-to-day living and to support their families back (in their homeland) - some of them are unable to pay the rent. “The Government should withdraw the applications from the courts by making a decision on their visas. “My request to the Labor Party MPs is please look after the Tamils. They are in danger if they return to Sri Lanka. Don’t allow them to go back against their wishes.”

Monash Health has been charged over the death of a mental health patient at Dandenong Hospital. The charge stems from the patient taking her own life while being treated in the hospital’s mental health unit in February 2022, according to WorkSafe. WorkSafe alleges that the health service failed to ensure, so far as reasonably practicable, that persons other than employees were not exposed to health and safety risks. The matter is listed for a filing hearing at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 13 March. It is the second current Worksafe prosecution of Monash Health relating to a patient’s death in mental health treatement. The charge over the death of an acute mental health unit patient at Casey Hospital in 2015 will be next heard at the Victorian County Court on 4 March. A further WorkSafe case relating to a 2021 assault of a nurse at Monash Medical Centre is scheduled for Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 24 June.

Dandenong Hospital. 296906

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Thursday, 22 February, 2024

STAR NEWS 5

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Indigenous names plan By Violet Li Casey Council has endorsed eight Indigenous names for the roads within the Casey Fields sporting precinct in Cranbourne West. The precinct has several unnamed roads that are already open to the public. The council had received requests from Emergency Services, Geographic Names Victoria (GNV), user groups, and members of the public to name the roads to improve wayfinding and emergency response times. The council’s Geographical Naming Officer (GNO) engaged with Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation (BLCAC) to encourage the use of Indigenous language to ‘increase equity in recognising underrepresented groups’. BLCAC provided four words with themes of

Indigenous flora and the use of the facility. To echo the recommendation, the council’s Sustainability and Waste team accordingly contributed a list of Indigenous flora names. The endorsed names are Marngrook (Ball), Tili Terrin (Play), Brungilo (Eucalyptus), Woolepe (Tea-Tree), Pendula, Poranthera, Hypnum, and Manuka. Casey administrator Miguel Belmar said it was a really fantastic thing about those names being used and local communities being able to find their ways using names that represented the ongoing and continued contact of our indigenous community. The cost of the street sign manufacture and installation was a total of less than $5000, available through the 2023-24 operational budget for minor works.

Mosques open doors By Emma Xerri Sunday 25 February marks the seventh annual Victorian Mosque Open Day, in what is a supremely important year for faith and unity throughout the Muslim community. Focusing on solidarity with Palestinians both at home and abroad, the day will serve as an invitation to connect, engage with and better understand one another, in the comforting spaces of the mosques many locals frequent. But the day will also be an opportunity for Victorians to learn more about the Islamic faith and its diverse cultural practices. From henna tattoo art and hijab tutorials to guided mosque tours and open dialogue about Islamic beliefs, locals are invited to partake in their mosque’s celebrations, sharing in a meal and hopefully uniting over their shared humanity.

“Mosques are always open and always welcoming places,” said Islamic Council of Victoria president Adel Salman. “And this year we have a record number of Mosques participating. “As well as being a sacred space for prayer and reflection, they are places where communities gather, learn from each other and share.” And Mr Salman urges people to take part in the Open Day to extend their support for those who are suffering. “How can we not take this opportunity to stand with the innocent men, women, and children…and the millions of people around the world, including here in Victoria, that are showing their support? “Visiting your local Mosque is a great way of expressing your compassion and solidarity with your neighbours.”

Site plan of Casey Fields sporting precinct showing road layout and endorsed Indigenous road names. Picture: CASEY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA

OPINION SOCIALLY SPEAKING

LENSCAPE

Axe at the ready for a wood chop at the Berwick Show. 389785 6 STAR NEWS

Thursday, 22 February, 2024

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

What was your experience in/after Tuesday 13 February’s severe storm? Bianca Iemmola Our 30 year old fence fell down. Gaye Guest Flooded road with crazy drivers creating waves as they drove through the deep water so it lapped up on our property and driveway, bark and leaves flying through the air furiously, no nbn, consequently no landline, no power down one side of the house so much investigation why this was the case ...eerie as five years ago this week we did have severe storm damage and as we watched the “newer” infrastructure survive the wind and rain grateful for stringent building codes and that we survived. People can mock climate change but with earthquake tremors and crazy weather patterns, we need to do better with environmental sustainability. To our politicians with many homes still not back on the grid we need homes fuelled by both gas and electricity for weather events like we are experiencing. You have to be able to heat, cook, etc when you cannot leave the house because of severe weather conditions. What we have all realised is how much we all rely on the internet and when it’s down and what we do! It is heartbreaking to see how much food has had to be thrown out because of the lack of generators in places of gathering that we rely on like supermarkets and shopping centres. Authorities need to have round table conferences ASAP and plan and ask the question “how can we prepare for more climate change events to stop all this waste”. Cash is king when you cannot access your money online. berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

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Tributes for orchard legend One of the region’s great horticulturalists William ‘Bill’ Montague OAM has died at the age of 97. The founder of Montague Orchards – who started his company at age 22 - passed away at home on 6 February. His family described him on social media as having an “unwavering passion for quality fruit production”, planting his first orchard in Narre Warren North. He acquired orchards and built cold-storage facilities, steering a thriving business that’s spanned three generations of family. Among his innovations was being the first to introduce controlled atmosphere storage in Australia in 1967 as well as the first to wax supplied fruit in 1977. The business has also famously created many new varieties of apple.

When he started out, Montague supplied fruit to hospitals across Melbourne. He was also a member of Dandenong Hospital Board for 10 years . He was also an honorary member of Rotary Club of Dandenong, as well as a patron and supporter of the arts and charities. In 2007, Montague was awarded the Order of Australia Medal for his services to the fruit industry. He was also inducted in the Australian Fresh Fruit Company Hall of Fame and named a Friend of the International Dwarf Treefruit Association of America. Montague was described by his family as a keen Collingwood fan and “self-proclaimed best fisherman of the Bay”. Ray, Tim, Hamish and Scott Montague continue to run the enduring family business.

Bill Montague OAM, pictured in 2006, was known as a legend in the fruit industry. 390487 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Bill Montague was centre stage at the opening of a new environmentally friendly packing facility at Montague Orchards in 2021.

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Tim Montague, William (Bill) Montague, Ray Montague and Scott Montague celebrate 10th anniversary of Jazz in 2016.

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Thursday, 22 February, 2024

STAR NEWS 7

FOCUS ON … MEDICALLY SPEAKING

Foot and knee pain help Most people suffer foot or knee pain at some point in their lives but it can be difficult to find effective treatment with long-term results. Foot and knee pain expert and musculoskeletal podiatrist, Dr. Paul Dowie explains, “Many foot and knee conditions are misdiagnosed and incorrectly treated, often because only symptoms are treated and the cause and contributing factors of the pain or injury are not being addressed.” With 25 years experience in musculoskeletal medicine Dr. Dowie has been the chosen practitioner to some of the world’s best athletes, providing proven solutions to help alleviate pain, heal injuries and even delay or eradicate the need for surgery. He provided us with the following insights into common foot and leg complaints and treatments. Bad foot posture can continually pull your body out of alignment, placing undue stress on other joints and tissues throughout the body, contributing to pain, injury and arthritis. Consulting a lower limb, musculoskeletal expert who has an understanding of complex foot and leg biomechanics, is essential in ascertaining the exact nature of your condition and providing appropriate treatment. Many foot and knee conditions, e.g. plantar fasciitis symptoms, knee, heel and ankle pain, injuries and degenerative conditions are incorrectly treated with cortisone injections, anti-inflammatory medications and arthroscopies. These may provide some temporary relief but do not fix these conditions and can delay healing and even cause further tissue damage. To achieve safe, effective, long-term outcomes

Any foot or leg pain, call Dr. Dowie at his Foot and Leg Pain Clinics in Berwick. in assisting pain, injuries, degenerative conditions like arthritis and function and mobility concerns, the latest medical research supports the following strategies: 1. Assisting load management, to reduce forces and stress placed through the joints

and tissues. 2. Encouraging joint and tissue repair (often with natural regenerative therapies i.e. Prolotherapy and PRP). 3. Improving joint and tissue function, range

of motion, strengthening and conditioning to assist long-term healing. If you have any foot or leg pain, you can see Dr. Dowie at his Foot and Leg Pain Clinics in Berwick and other locations across Melbourne. Call 1300 328 300.

Always Hear for you In a bustling world where noise often dominates, our ability to hear can easily be overlooked. Yet, for Gerald Liew and Jacqueline Coyle, founders of Always Hear, hearing is cherished as a precious gift. Their vision of revolutionising the audiology industry gave birth to an independent clinic that goes beyond just hearing aids and assessments. Always Hear is about providing compassionate, expert care that erases the stigma surrounding hearing loss. As March 2024 approaches, we find ourselves on the brink of World Hearing Month—a time to raise awareness about the importance of hearing health. At Always Hear, this mission is ingrained in their clinic ethos. Beyond their clinical offerings, what truly sets Always Hear apart is their compassionate team. Comprising of individuals who understand that hearing loss is not just a medical

condition but a deeply personal journey, they provide support and understanding every step of the way. Their team is dedicated to making a tangible difference in people’s lives. Always Hear’s commitment to accessibility is evident through their government accreditation program, ensuring that quality hearing care is within reach for all. This dedication extends even further with their free micro-suction wax removal (normally valued at $120) promotion throughout March 2024 —an initiative aimed at promoting hearing health awareness. As we mark World Hearing Month, let’s not just acknowledge the importance of hearing health; let’s actively support initiatives like those offered by Always Hear. To book an appointment, please contact our friendly staff on 039131 3212 or email us at contact@alwayshear.com.au. We are always here so you can always hear!

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Thursday, 22 February, 2024

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FOCUS ON … MEDICALLY SPEAKING

Care boost The Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) is encouraging Victorian GPs, future GPs, and nurse practitioners to boost their skills in helping patients with opioid dependence. It comes amid a severe shortage of doctors prescribing medication for opioid dependence. The college has responded by relaunching its Medication Assisted Treatment for Opioid Dependence (MATOD) training program. RACGP Victoria chair Dr Anita Munoz urged those eligible to sign up. “This is an opportunity to make a difference and learn more about these lifesaving medicines,” she said. “The face of opioid dependence is changing, with more people facing addiction to pain medications such as codeine or oxycodone. “Our detailed training builds expertise to support people with opioid dependence, and safely administer medication assisted treatment, which is the top line form of treatment for people with opioid dependence. “It involves patients taking medications such as buprenorphine or methadone to safely wean themselves off opioids and stabilise their lives without experiencing excruciating withdrawal. It’s been proven to work; we just need more doctors delivering the treatment.” Dr Munoz said the program addresses a pressing need. “There is a severe nation-wide shortage of GPs who regularly prescribe the medications used to treat opioid dependence and Victoria is no different,” she said. “We want to change that, so no one misses out on the care they need. Timely care and treatment, including medication assisted treatment, can make all the difference. Our program aims to increase awareness and boost the number of GPs, future GPs, and nurse practitioners able to help people with opioid dependence. “Doctors who have already completed the training say it’s practical and useful for daily practice, giving them confidence to safely help their patients. It is a comprehensive and flexible program, designed to fit in around the busy lives of GPs with online or hybrid training options. I encourage all GPs and future GPs to sign-up to better understand this rewarding area of medicine. “There is so much more work to be done in this space, including helping more people access medical interventions to treat opioid dependence. “One area where we need a long-term solution is a soon to be introduced ban on GPs administering opioid dependence treatment medicines as a private script. “The federal government offered a temporary reprieve until 30 June this year; however, we need to make it permanent. We are supportive of increased access to opioid dependency therapy through pharmacy, but GPs still have a vital role to play. “We must also keep fighting the stigma surrounding alcohol and other drug use, including opioid dependence. There is nothing to be gained from putting these patients in the ‘too hard basket’ and throwing the book at them in the judicial system, they need care and under-

GPs back call for public education on Medicare

A report from the National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre found that there were 1788 drug-induced deaths Australia-wide in 2021, with opioids including morphine and oxycodone the primary opioids involved in overdose deaths, followed by heroin. standing, and the right kind of treatment. It’s really the same as patients with diabetes accessing lifesaving insulin. Medicated assisted treatment is a medical intervention that can help people turn their lives around.” Last year, the RACGP applauded the federal government’s decision to add lifesaving opioid dependence treatment medicines to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme. The college also welcomed the government delaying the impending ban on GPs administering opioid dependence treatment medicines, such as long-acting buprenorphine, as a private script until 30 June this year. A report from the National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre found that there were 1788 drug-induced deaths Australia-wide in 2021, with opioids including morphine and oxycodone the primary opioids involved in overdose deaths, followed by heroin. The MATOD training offers the flexibility of online-only training or a hybrid model of online and face-to-face options. The online MATOD program is a self-paced, self-guided online program, with modules designed to boost confidence and understanding of the basic concepts of opioids before identifying ways to implement opioid agonist therapy in practice. The hybrid option consists of some selfguided learning online, as well as face-to-face workshops led by an experienced GP who is a current prescriber of opioid agonist therapy. Those taking part can interact with their peers, learn from others, share their own insights, take a close look at clinical scenarios, and ask plenty of questions. The program is continuing professional development (CPD) approved activity under the RACGP’s CPD program, and on completion all participants will be recognised as an authorised prescriber for medication assisted treatment for opioid dependence.

WE MAKE CASEY CARDINIA SMILE

The Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) has thrown its support behind the Consumer Health Forum’s calls for the federal government to fund public education that fully explains the Medicare system to the public. RACGP president Dr Nicole Higgins said public education on Medicare could help people navigate the health system better and improve their health. “We’re living in an age where people are being swamped with pseudo health advice and marketing for products and services which aren’t evidence-based and could be dangerous. “Improving health literacy is essential to ensure people know where to turn for expert health advice to live healthier – that is their GP,” she said. “Our health system is incredibly complex, and there is very low health literacy in Australia. “If people had a better understanding of Medicare and health literacy, they would be better equipped to navigate the system and improve their health. “Many Australians simply don’t understand Medicare. When it started in 1984, it was designed to subsidise the costs of patient care by about 85 per cent, and the patient paid the rest, which is the gap or ‘outof-pocket’ fee. “So, Medicare rebates belong to the patient – it’s the government’s subsidy, to help pay for your care. “Like everything else, healthcare is becoming more expensive. With other cost of

RACGP president Dr Nicole Higgins. Picture: RACGP.ORG.AU living pressures, it’s more important than ever that Australians have a sound understanding of Medicare, so they can manage their health and stay well. “If people manage their health with their GP, they’re less likely to go to hospital, and it will help their hip pocket, as well as government budgets and taxpayers. “Significant reforms to Medicare are occurring that many people aren’t aware of. Peoples’ entitlements are expanding with MyMedicare, but having a regular GP or practice is essential to access these entitlements. This reform is about improving health and wellbeing – the research shows having a regular GP results in better health and satisfaction.”

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berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

Thursday, 22 February, 2024

STAR NEWS 9

NEWS

Rainville (left), Erano, Dyon, Laurice and Danilo are picking up fallen tree branches. 389618

Marjorie (left) and Yesha, volunteers for the INC Giving Project. 389618

Rey Camba seems to be turning over a new leaf! 389618

Jerica Manguic (left) and Jo Davey (manager of the centre). 389618

Cleaning up post-storm By Violet Li There is nothing more timely than a Clean Up Drive after a massive storm that turned Berwick upside down. A Clean Up Drive, hosted by the INC Giving Project on Sunday 18 February, restored the Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House and its surroundings to the utmost way they were before the tempestuous weather. About 200 volunteers joined in the cleanup, from young preschool children, teenagers, senior citizens, and whole families. They inspected the community house, adjacent parklands, and streets, picking up rubbish and large fallen branches. Many large bags of rubbish and branches were collected. Volunteers also cleaned the community house, specifically the playgroup area. A free pancake breakfast and a sausage sizzle lunch were provided to thank all volunteers for their time and energy. The INC Giving Project is a project of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) that en-

courages volunteers to contribute to their communities through outreach initiatives, community service projects, and philanthropic contributions. The activities through the Giving Project are not religiously affiliated. Kate Pangilinan, a member and event organiser, speaking about the project, said there would be community service programs coming up every month this year all around the state and even around the globe. “In the following months, we’ll be doing blood donation and more clean up drives. We plan to do a winter drive. We’ll be giving out free winter goods,” she said. “In the past, we’ve done lunch box drives. We give out free lunch boxes and school snacks.” Ms Pangilinan said the project had been around for quite a few years, but this year it was a relaunch. “The reason why we do it is we just want to give back to the community. We just want to be able to help people wherever we can,” she said.

Group photo at the end of the clean-up. 389618

Picture: GARY SISSONS

Federation Uni to bring back innovation series events Thought leaders from across the state will be sharing their insight into various challenges and opportunities in the South East Melbourne region during a new series of events hosted by Federation University Australia at its Berwick Campus. These events are free and designed to generate thinking, awareness and change within the South-East region. The first event, “towards net-zero”, discussing what to expect as the world moves towards a net-zero economy and how this could affect the economy will take place from 5pm – 7pm on Thursday 22 February at Federation’s Berwick Campus, 100 Clyde Road, Sir Nossal Boulevard, Berwick. Vice-chancellor and president, Professor Duncan Bentley said “following the success of these events in Gippsland, we are excited to start delivering these events in Berwick and look forward to welcoming local businesses, organisations, and residents to our campus”.

Leaders will be sharing their insights during a new series of events hosted by Federation University Australia at its Berwick Campus. Picture: ON FILE

OPEN DAY 2024

www.sfx.vic.edu.au

Saturday 16 March 10.00 am - 2.00 pm | Berwick Campus | Officer Campus

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10 STAR NEWS

Thursday, 22 February, 2024

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

From course to properties

The Cranbourne Golf Course is on the market. 150994

Lewins Turner (middle) cuts the ribbon, with Rob Brown (left) and Simon Fenech (right). 389423

Fruitful expansion From page 1 “The most important thing this hub does is it gives us access to a cohort of people who need a chance to get from here to our other hub in Laverton, it’s too far away,” Brown said. He added that the southeast provided the organisation with a large number of customers, which with the lack of a hub, made it difficult to cater to from the west. Narre Warren North MP Belinda Wilson also attended the grand opening and gave a short speech on the organisation’s importance. “For me, life’s about opportunity and I wouldn’t be in my position without someone believing in me, believing in what you can do, and that’s what this organisation does,” she said. Ms Wilson was excited about the avenues the new hub could explore, saying that the “opportunities Fruit2Work creates are life changing.” “By offering the opportunity for employment to people who may not be able to find it elsewhere, Fruit2Work enables them to re-enter the job market and improve the likelihood of rehabilitation. “It’s my job to advocate for local community organisations to ensure they have berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

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Lewins Turner next to the Hallam hub’s sign. 389423 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS the support and resources they need to deliver the essential services they provide to our community,” she said. For Turner, Fruit2Work is family, people who gave him a chance when he thought it would never come. “When they said to me that they were going to name the building after me, I couldn’t believe it - I haven’t stopped crying in five days! “This place has continued to help people, and I couldn’t ask for any better feeling,” Turner said.

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Cranbourne Golf Course, owned by the Cranbourne Country Club (CCC), has been listed for sale after 70 years of operation. Peter Sagar and Paul Callahan of LAWD have been exclusively appointed by the CCC to sell the property via an expressions of interest campaign, with Patrick McNulty and Tom Byrnes of Charter Keck Cramer acting as transaction advisors. The property has been utilised as a golf course since 1954 when the Cranbourne Country Club established a club that welcomed golfers of all backgrounds and religions in response to the exclusion of Jewish players from private clubs at the time. The net proceeds of the course sale will be placed in a foundation to assist Jewish communal projects and organisations. The course comprises approximately 70.4 hectares of residential-zoned land and has over 1.7 kilometres of dual road frontage onto Glasscocks Road and Huon Park Road, providing “existing connection to all infrastructure and offering prospective purchasers the opportunity of acquiring a ‘ready-to-go’ infill development site of scale”. A spokesperson of CCC said the property represented the last remaining site of its scale in the Casey area with no other competition of relevance expected, creating a unique offering. “The Cranbourne Golf Course presents a viable solution to assist the Victorian Government’s aim of providing 800,000 homes over the next 10 years,” they said. LAWD senior director Peter Sagar said this property offered maximum certainty on delivery, which was critical for all major developers. “Whilst there is sadness in the closure of the Cranbourne Golf Club, we look forward to the opportunity to assist so many in need within our community,” said CCC president Brad Wein. The sale followed the Cranbourne Golf Club’s merger with Huntingdale Golf Club into a redeveloped course at the latter’s site in Oakleigh South in 2022. The merger was said to be completed in late 2025.

* Drink tickets redeemable for house beverages only. If you are a Pakenham Racing Club Member, please call the Club to process your Trackside Garden Party ticket. 03 5940 6600

@ events@pakenhamracing.com.au

www.pakcup.com.au

Thursday, 22 February, 2024

STAR NEWS 11

NEWS

Concerns grow over odour By Violet Li Surrounding communities of Stevensons Brothers Industries (SBI) landfill have been disgusted by the latest surge of a reportedly ‘rotten egg’ odour, but the cause is yet to be identified. On the first weekend of February, the Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) received 73 odour incident reports in the vicinity and started the investigation. When inquired, a spokesperson from EPA said it received a notifiable incident report from SBI on Saturday 3 February that there had been a potential failure of odour management infrastructure at the site and that several actions had been taken to fix the problem. “However, those actions did not immediately rectify the problem and we received community reports complaining of a rotten egg smell,” they said. “Our landfill experts are conducting odour surveillance around the facility and in the community. That is continuing until we are satisfied that SBI has the problem under control.” A different story seems to have been presented at an SBI Community Consultative Committee (CCC) meeting held on Tuesday 6 February, where representatives from SBI reportedly stated that the hydrogen sulphide (H2S) monitors on site did not show any sign of detection, according to an update from the CCC on the meeting. After conducting odour surveys onsite and offsite, SBI believed the odour could not be attributed to the landfill and suggested the origin was the sheep from the property directly next door to them, according to the CCC’s update. SBI stated on its website that five full-time SBI employees had had their noses calibrated in accordance with EPA guidelines. CCC member and Brookland Greens resi-

dent Nick Ter-kuile, present at the meeting, said it was the first time the community had ever heard about sheep. “This [the landfill odour incident] has been going on for 18 months. So I don’t think anybody could believe the sheep was true,” he said. “Residents have smelled the odour constantly for the last two years. We know what it is better than any others. “Most people and I will take what EPA says,

not the SBI because it’ll be like believing the person had broken into your house saying that they didn’t do it.” While the mention of sheep seemed quite ‘laughable’ to the community, Mr Ter-kuile pointed out that no authority had been able to identify what the issue was. Representatives from SBI told the meeting that they reported to the EPA - on the day of the most odour complaints - they changed a carbon filter in their leachate storage tank headspace as a precautionary action. An update from SBI on its website on Saturday 10 February noted that ‘identifying alternate odour sources to that of SBI was not done to shift blame’. “These are qualitative observations by suitably qualified and trained personnel,” the update wrote. A week following the untraceable odour, EPA attended the landfill site on Saturday 10 February after a new wave of community odour reports. EPA officers detected landfill odour at an offsite location approximately 500 metres from the closest edge of the landfill, an onsite location approximately 100 metres west of the site entrance along Ballarto Road, and onsite leachate storage tanks, which were approximately 180 meters from the site entrance. A H2S parts per billion (ppb) monitor located in the northern boundaries of the site recorded an average of 0.3 ppb during 9-10 February with a maximum of 9 ppb at around 4am on Friday 9 February. According to EPA NSW, about half of people can smell H2S at a concentration of around 8 ppb. However, the odour sensitivity varies among individuals as some people can smell it at 0.5 ppb. “Exposure to these low concentrations of H2S may cause irritation to the eyes, nose or throat, and difficulties in breathing in people

with asthma,” the EPA website writes. “Repeated exposures at these levels can also understandably cause anxiety and distress and result in indirect symptoms such as headaches and nausea.” The source of the odour has also not been identified, but SBI noted in a February website update that a treatment system for the leachate storage tank was ‘now being investigated for points of weakness in the treatment train’ and ‘a long meteorological is being sought to eliminate interference by meteorological fluctuations’. SBI identified the leachate storage tank as a potential offsite odour source in April 2023 and accordingly upgraded the extraction system on its headspace. The odour continued to upset the community, with 69 new air pollution reports coming up from 12 to 16 February. SBI believed that about 45 per cent of the reports could not be attributed to the landfill based on the wind direction. “Statistically, given the high percentage of reports that cannot be attributed to SBI based on wind direction alone, rationalises that the percentage of false reporting within the remaining reports, to be reasonably high as well,” its update wrote. A maximum H2S of 21 ppb was detected on the morning of Tuesday 13 February at the northern boundary of the site at around 5.30am. The same monitor showed 9 ppb at 4.55am, 5 ppb at 6:32am, and 3 ppb at 7.42am on the morning of Friday 16 February. No trace of H2S was detected at other times in the week. A new H2S scrubber is due to go online on 1 March and a new flare on 15 March subject to the approvals being granted by Energy Safe Victoria.

South-east benefits from home ownership scheme: MP By Emma Xerri South-east residents can expect to receive more home-buying assistance later this year, with the Help to Buy scheme joining the successful Home Guarantee Scheme. The Home Guarantee Scheme - made up of the First Home Guarantee, Regional First Home Buyer Guarantee and the Family Home Guarantee - has already helped eligible homebuyers secure finance sooner through government support. In just Melbourne’s South-East, more than 3905 people have been helped into a home thanks to the scheme - the second most popular region for the scheme in Melbourne. “I know what it’s like to be raised by a single mum and how important having a roof over your head is,” Federal Member for Bruce, Julian Hill MP said. “So many local families and young people

have been priced out of the housing market. “There’s no single solution but Labor’s Home Guarantee Scheme is helping. Since May 2022, 3905 more people in South-East Melbourne have been helped into home ownership. The Help to Buy Scheme will help thousands more.” The government supports eligible homebuyers with an equity contribution of up to 40 per cent for new homes and 30 per cent for existing homes, and homeowners will only need a minimum 2 per cent deposit to participate. The scheme also promises to provide lower ongoing repayments, subsequently enabling long-term relief. With all states having agreed to move forward with the legislation, the Help to Buy scheme will run nationally later this year. “Right across the country Help to Buy will

be life changing, bringing home ownership back into reach for thousands of Australians, particularly renters,” Minister for Housing, Julie Collins MP said. “It won’t just be a leg up into home ownership with savings from a smaller deposit – it will provide long-term relief to Australians who are part of the scheme. “In fact, Help to Buy could help eligible new homeowners save hundreds every month on their mortgage. “Our government has already helped more than 86,000 people into home ownership, and Help to Buy will mean even more Australians have this opportunity. “Our ambitious housing reform agenda is working across the board – more help for homebuyers, more help for renters and more help for Australians needing a safe place for the night.”

Federal Bruce MP Julian Hill.

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12 STAR NEWS

Thursday, 22 February, 2024

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Guiding youth on the road By Violet Li David Jefferies from South East Community Links (SECL) has been nominated for the 2023 Volunteering Awards after more than 13 years of mentoring young drivers under the agency’s L2P program. He was acknowledged under the Volunteer Commitment category for his sustained and substantial record of commitment to the community and the organisation. The L2P program, funded by the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) and completely free, matches young learner drivers with volunteer mentor drivers who help them meet the required minimum of 120 hours of supervised driving with a supplied car before they can apply for a probationary licence. The start of a decade-long service was very easy. In retrospect, there was an interest and a sign-up, David said. “I am a member of the Lions Club of Wheelers Hill, and I’ve been there for about 25 years. Back then, I think we had a person come from SECL and gave us a presentation about this L2P scheme,” he recalled. “A few of us volunteered to sign up and have a go at doing it. “I thought I’d enjoy it. And there you are. The rest is history.” Having mentored 91 learners and currently on the road with five boys, David has long come up with his own ‘mentoring syllabus’. Instead of organising driving for just one or two hours as most mentors do, he would go out for three or four hours with the kids and plan the best for behind the wheel. “We might drive into the city and do hook

Afghani learner Shuk and David Jefferies are about to hit the road. turns, and we’d like to go right around the out to Western Ring Road and go right around it over the West Gate Bridge,” he said. “One of my favourite drives is to drive down from Dandenong to Frankston along the beach road, then to Mornington down Mornington Main Street, then onto the windy road that goes to Dromana, then up Arthur’s Seat, and eventually come back to Melbourne on the Peninsula Link Freeway. “It gives the kids a good big variety of differ-

Picture: SUPPLIED

ent conditions.” Working with young people has allowed David to understand the generation. Most of the learners are from the Dandenong area, where a large ethnic varied population is present. He has mentored young people from Afghanistan, China, India, Pakistan, and Egypt. “We discussed a wide range of subjects, like school, employment, and immigration,” he said.

“Immigration is a big one. “I’ve got quite a few young people who started off as migrants and then they’re Aussies!” Speaking of the award nomination, David was not aware of it until someone told him about it. When asked why he thought he would be nominated, he said: “Probably because I’ve been there so long, and I’ve done a fair bit of mentoring.” “I just like doing it.”

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

Hallam Mosque Open Day 2024 The Victorian Mosque Open Day is an annual event that seeks to bring the Victorian community closer to Muslims around the State. Join us on the 25 February for a day of fun, faith, and friendship. 131-133 Belgrave-Hallam Rd, Narre Warren North 11am-4pm Activities: Q&A, gift bag giveaways, sausage sizzle, refreshments, Hijab try on, Hena corner, guided mosque tours, lollies for kids, get a better understanding of your local Muslim community

Berwick Show The annual Berwick show is on this weekend (24 and 25 February). Celebrating its 175th anniversary, the show offers entertainment for all ages and a variety of competitions to participate in. The agricultural show will be held at Akoonah Park, Princes Highway, Berwick. For more information, please visit https:// berwickshow.org.au/ or contact 0407 866 049

Berwick Farmers Market The Berwick Farmers Market has been trading for 18 years and it represents the only genuine Farmers Market in the South Eastern Suburbs, by definition a genuine farmers market is predominately fresh local farm-origin produce and no craft. Resulting of customer demand a decision has been made to trade twice a month after years of trading on the second Saturday monthly, trading is now extended to the fourth Sunday. The next market is Sunday 25 February at The Old Cheese Factory, 34 Homestead Rd Berwick, 8am – 12.30pm.

Berwick Bridge Club Are you looking for some exercise for your brain that is both fun and challenging? Berwick Bridge Club is looking for new members. There is a free beginner’s course starting on 4 March from 7pm-9pm. No partner required. Lessons are held at Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House, 21A Bemersyde Drive, Berwick. The course will run for 6+ weeks on a Monday night. To reserve your spot phone Maree on 97022348.

Balla Balla Community Centre Located in Clyde North, the centre has vacancies in the following classes: Introduction to Creative Writing, Conversational English, Yoga, Zumba, Playgroup, Balla Balla Bubs (0-12 months). Morning Melodies is back! First date for the year is 13 February. Share a morning of music, enjoy a cuppa, or scones with jam and cream, and make new friends along the way. Enrolments can be made online at ballaballa. com.au/programs or by phoning 5990 0900.

Casey Cardinia Life Activities Club Are you newly retired or new to the area or just berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

Berwick Springs VIEW Club

Four-year-old Talia with her calf, Grace. 320809 wanting to enjoy your freedom or expand your social life? Casey Cardinia Life Activities Club can offer you stimulating activities such as weekly social/ chat activities with low-key in line dancing if you want to tap your feet and enjoy an afternoon tea. Day, short and long trips away via coach and flights, a weekly morning coffee club, monthly Saturday country pub lunches, monthly evening dineouts, weekly table tennis club, walking groups, seasonal daytime musical theatre outings, and more. Come along and get to know us by visiting us on a Thursday at 2pm at Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House or join us on a Wednesday at 10am for a Coffee at Little Sparrow Fountain Gate. For more information, contact enquiry officer Gloria on 0468 363 616.

Cranbourne U3A We have commenced our classes and are happy that the new classes are proving to be very popular. Our Ballroom dance class has commenced and it is a lot of fun. You do not need a partner, just come along and give it a try. The Tai Chi class is also going well. We have room for new members if you are interested. Our usual art, music, calligraphy, quilling, knitting, sewing/patchwork, chess, Italian, and Table Tennis groups are all back and enjoying lots of laughs and good company. New members are always welcome. If you would like to join us pop into our rooms, we are open Monday to Friday from 10am to 3pm. Our website is u3acraqnbourne,org.au for more information.

Our rooms are in the Cranbourne Library building - enter from the Casey Radio entrance next door to L’Arte Cafe.

Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre is a not-for-profit community managed centre, with a volunteer Committee of Management that provides strategic direction and oversight. For more than 30 years, the centre has provided a range of high-quality childcare, community services, educational classes and spaces for hire. Explore diverse activities and engage with fellow community members at their open day this weekend. Lots of free family fun, sausage sizzle, animal nursery, popcorn, and fairy floss. For more details, visit merindapark.com.au or facebook.com/MPLandCC

Seated Movement Sessions (Chair Dancing) Would you enjoy exercising from the comfort of your chair? Join the Berwick Activities Group for some seated movement sessions including fun and uplifting songs and different styles and eras of music. An opportunity to get moving and enjoy the company of others. Timbarra Community Centre, 20-26 Parkhill Drive, Timbarra Way, Berwick. $8 per session. Contact admin@berwicknc.com.au or phone 9704 1863. Wednesdays from 10.45am to 11.30am.

·Craft Classes

Do you enjoy craft making?

Affiliated with The Smith Family, the Berwick Springs VIEW Club is a not for profit organisation, with the aim to fundraise to support Learning for Life students. The club currently supports seven students of varying ages with their education expenses and are about to take on an eighth student. Throughout the year, the club has a couple of special fundraisers, as well as casual morning tea and lunch for interested ladies. The club is always looking for new members in all age groups. For more information, contact Shirley on 0419 878 481 or email berwicksprings.viewclub@ gmail.com The club meets on the first Monday of each month in the Berwick Springs Hotel function room from 11.30am, where members enjoy a lunch and then host a guest speaker.

DnD at Orana Dungeons and Dragons (DnD) is an inclusive tabletop, fantasy, role playing game. Participants work together with other players to go on adventures in the DnD world. You can act, explore, instigate, solve problems, and tell stories as you bring their chosen character to life within the game world. Second Saturday of each month, 1pm to 9pm, Orana Community Place, 16/18 Playwright St, Clyde North. For enquiries and to book a spot at the table, reach out to Jonathan Whelan at thestoryweaver.dnd@gmail.com

Weekly badminton Badminton for ladies or retired. All welcome. Mondays 7pm-9pm and Wednesdays 12pm2.30pm at Hallam Badminton Club, Frawley Road Recreation Reserve; $5.

Thursday, 22 February, 2024

STAR NEWS 13

THE LOWDOWN Q&A

with Pakenham Garden Club member Margaret Macdonald

What do you love about being a member of the Pakenham Gardening Club? I love going and visiting beautiful gardens and meeting with other gardeners and sharing their knowledge. If you were an animal, what animal would you be? A cat. I could lie around and sleep a lot and be pampered. What would your last meal be? Anything I did not have to cook myself. What has been your most memorable moment/s so far? The birth of my three children. What was your favourite subject at school? Geography. What event, past or present, would you like to witness? Weddings of my grandchildren. Which five dinner guests, dead or alive, would you invite to dinner? My husband, grandmother and my three children, so they could meet their great grandmother. What are you currently listening to/watching or reading? Back Roads on the ABC and Gardening Australia. If you had to compete on Masterchef, what dish would you cook? Golden syrup dumplings. Where is your dream holiday destination? Canada and the inside passage to Alaska. What three words would your friends use to describe you? Hopefully kind, quiet and dependable. What would you do on your perfect day off? Travel the Great Ocean Road.

Margaret Macdonald, proud member of the Pakenham Garden Club.

THREE … ways to prepare your home for a severe storm

Buy a generator. A generator can be a vital life line if the power goes out but make sure they are used correctly.

Inspect the roof and fix any damage that may lead to leaks. This can also help prevent any damage caused by strong winds.

Move everything in your garden that may fly and damage your property or a neighbours, especially a trampoline!

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14 STAR NEWS

Thursday, 22 February, 2024

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Thursday, 22 February, 2024

STAR NEWS 15

NEWS

Lounge a hit Assessing your business A Family Fun Day was held at Cranbourne West Community Hub on Saturday 17 February to celebrate the opening of Connected Libraries’ (CL) new library lounge. A formal ribbon cutting started the day, followed by various free activities including face painting, giant bubble, Storytimes, giveaways, a sausage sizzle, performances, and an animal petting zoo. More than 1000 people revelled in the joyful atmosphere, and the library attained lots of new members afterward. The new Cranbourne West Library Lounge was launched in January at Cranbourne West Community Hub. CL members can borrow, return, and renew items at the new lounge. Free Wi-Fi and public computers are available for use. Storytimes and regular programs will operate from the lounge. The Library Lounge will be open from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday and will be staffed a few hours each day.

TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS IAN ASH

What does a great business look like? There are many criteria against which to assess one and chances are everyone will have a different perspective but getting very specific (I mean quantifiable wherever possible) does help to provide a better sense of where the business is really at. So here are 10 simple statements for which you need only answer yes, no or don’t know. Read each statement carefully since you may find yourself providing reasons why you believe you can say ‘yes’ even though the actual data result says otherwise. For each ‘yes’ answer, allocate 10 per cent and sum up at the end to get an overall percentage evaluation. All staff work less than 50 hours per week on average every month. The business has been profitable every year for the last three years. I have a profit and loss budget for each month of this financial year. I have data to show that the business will be cash-flow positive over the next six weeks. I know my sales conversion rate and what factors affect this. I have an organisation chart for my business with a Position Description for each role. I have defined and documented company values which are known by all staff and actively applied. I have defined and documented what is unique about my business and know why people should use my business instead of

Librarian and outreach officer Himaya Nelson. 385228

· · · ·

Casey administrator and Connected Libraries board member Miguel Belmar. 385228

· · · · Connected Libraries chief executive officer Beth Luppino. 385228 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

Fabian with his kids Phoebe and Clara at the Family Fun Day. 385228

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Anyone advertising a puppy, dog, kitten or cat in Victoria for sale or re-homing will need a source number from the Pet Exchange Register and a microchip identiﬁcation number. It is now an offence to advertise unless the source number and microchip identiﬁcation number is included in the advertisement or notice. For further information, call 136 186 or visit animalwelfare.vic.gov.au

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16 STAR NEWS

Thursday, 22 February, 2024

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Look at the statements that you did not say ‘yes’ to. Do you know what data to collect and how to use this to derive improved business performance? All businesses are different and companies will put different weightings on each of the above but these item cover areas that often don’t get the analysis they deserve and improving the focus on these will surely improve overall business performance. Ian Ash ACC, AInstIB Managing Director OrgMent Business Solutions - www.ombs.com.au

Are you a persuasive communicator with a passion for sales? Are you looking for a flexible, casual, or part-time role that allows you to showcase your skills and earn some extra income? Look no further! Network Classifieds, a leading online and print classified advertising platform serving multiple mastheads across Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, and NT, is seeking enthusiastic Telephone Sales Representatives to join our dynamic team. About Network Classifieds Network Classifieds is at the forefront of connecting buyers and sellers across multiple regions in Australia. With a strong online and print presence, we help communities find the perfect deals, services, and opportunities. As a Telephone Sales Representative, you'll play a crucial role in driving our sales efforts and expanding our network. What You'll Do • Engage with potential customers over the phone to promote our advertising solutions. • Build and maintain strong customer relationships. • Understand customer needs and provide tailored advertising solutions. • Meet and exceed sales targets and performance goals. • Collaborate with a motivated and supportive team. Requirements • Strong communication and interpersonal skills. • Confidence in making outbound sales calls. • Motivated, goal-oriented, and results-driven. • Ability to work independently and as part of a team. • Previous sales or customer service experience is a plus, but not required. How to Apply If you're ready to take on this exciting role with the flexibility you desire, we want to hear from you! Please send your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your relevant skills and why you're interested in joining Network Classifieds as a Telephone Sales Representative to Sue Hall, Classified Advertising Manager, at sales@networkclassifieds.com.au. Join us in helping our diverse communities connect, buy, and sell through effective advertising solutions. Be a part of the Network Classifieds team and make a difference in the world of classifieds! 12667087-MS05-24

Facilities Officer Gleneagles Secondary College is currently seeking a highly skilled Facilities Officer. We offer a fantastic working environment, outstanding conditions, with flexible working options, underpinned by variety and autonomy. This is a full-time ongoing position, working 7:30am to 3:30pm. Key Responsibilities: • Maintenance of the building, gardens, and grounds of the College • Undertake appropriate renovation work as identified in collaboration with the college Principal. • Work through maintenance log requests and liaise with the Maintenance team as required. • Comply with Occupational Health & Safety and Work Safe standards. • Attend maintenance team meetings. Trade qualifications or experience highly desirable, conditions negotiable. For more information, including remuneration, contact the college Principal, Chad Ambrose 9708 1319 or gleneagles.sc@education.vic.gov.au

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All businesses are different and companies will put different weightings on each of the 10 statements in the article. Picture: MICROSOFT 365 ON UNSPLASH

Motoring section of Network Classifieds.

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

SPORT

Making dreams come true By Jonty Ralphsmith Berwick hobby runner Harry Bell is set to run 100 kilometres to raise funds for Make A Wish Foundation on Saturday 23 March. Motivated by the carrot of bringing happiness to people enduring tough circumstances, Bell is set to run from Berwick to the city, passing monuments including the MCG and Botanical Gardens, before finishing at St Kilda’s Esplanade Hotel. “The more funds we get leads to more wishes being made into reality and it means these kids and families can have the joy they deserve,” Bell said, noting the aim is to raise at least $5000. “They’re going through something that no one deserves to go through, so the more we can raise, the more joy we can bring to them and the more happiness they get in a critical situation.” Having been involved in environments which have raised money for charity, Bell conceptualised the run several months ago but locked it in only 40 days out from the event – last week. Bell has run as far as 70 kilometres in one hit before, and identified a top 20 finish in the Two Bays Ultra Marathon on the Mornington Peninsula last month as a confidence booster. After 70kms it’s a pandora’s box, we’ll see what happens,“ Bell said. “As soon as I hit the 70-80 kms mark, knowing I’m doing it for a fundraiser and and for kids who are critically ill will get me across.“ Remarkably, given the number of long runs he already has under his belt, Bell only took up running seriously eight months ago after close mate and Aussie triathlete Jordan Holt initially got him into cycling during lockdown. “My bike went in for a service 8-9 months ago and I wanted to keep my fitness up for the week it was in and I haven’t ridden my bike since,“ Bell said. “So the whole idea of a runner’s high was a

Picture: CINDY BELL

Harry running the Two Bays Ultra Marathon. 390059 catalyst and it was a good mental break. “I can escape from gym and work for half an hour, or an hour – which has become five hours, ten hours – and shut off from the world and I saw the returns pretty quickly from it.” Currently, Bell is running about 120 kilometres per week, and will peak at 140-160kms, before tapering off in the days immediately prior. Also including gym, Bell is currently training for 14 hours per week, alongside full time work.

On 23 March, Bell is set to wake up at 2.30am and get food in, before taking off at 4am eating substantially every two hours during the run alongside his water, gel and carbohydrate mix consumption – and hoping to finish with a beer at the Espy 10 hours later. “I’m finishing there so that everyone who has been involved, from Make A Wish, to people raising funds, can get altogether and it can be a celebration of the funds. “Make A Wish is going to bring the kids joy,

but also the families during such a tough time so if we can get everyone together will be a good environment to highlight what they’ve done and what they will do for the kids. “So now we’ve just got to run the 100 kilometres and get it done.” Donate via the following link: https://fund ra i s e. m a k e a w i s h . o rg . a u / f u n d ra i s e r s / harrybell/100km-to-make-a-wishFollow Harry’s day-by-day build up via his Instagram: ’Harrrybellll’

Berwick’s Evglevski gunning for Olympic ticket to Paris By Jonty Ralphsmith Berwick shooter Sergei Evglevski is well-positioned to qualify for the Paris Olympics later this year thanks to excellent performances at qualifying events in Brisbane and Sydney. The 2021 Olympian has come first in all three of the qualifying events so far, with formidable scores of 579, 584 and 585 giving him a handy lead on other Australians competing for the 25-metre rapid fire event. Evglevski’s event consists of two halves, with each half involving three ‘time’ series. Shooters first fire five shots at a target across eight seconds, twice, before doing the same thing across six seconds, and then four seconds, with that making up a half. There is a maximum of 10 points per shot, with points therefore being calculated out of 600 as participants take 60 shots. Effectively, it means that in 45 of Evglevski’s 60 shots when he scored 585, he hit the bullseye. Evglevski will shoot in Brisbane again in early March and at Rio De Janeiro, with the outcome of those events set to determine whether he maintains first position and gets a ticket to Paris. The 26-year-old shoots out of the Yarra Pistol Club in Lysterfield and is coming off a strong 2023 which addressed his major shortcoming in Tokyo: mindset. Entering his first Olympic campaign having not competed internationally since 2019 due to the pandemic led to him shooting well below his best. After competing with the world’s top 10 prior to Covid-19, and winning silver at the 2018 Commonwealth Games, Evglevski finished 17th at Tokyo with an underwhelming score of 572. “If I’m successful in getting to Paris, what I can take away from Tokyo is definitely some discipline,” Evglevski said. “Being my first Olympics, there was a lot of berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

Sergei Evglevski has taken a big step forward since his first Olympic campaign 390461 Pictures: JONTY RALPHSMITH

Sergei Evglevski shoots out of the Yarra Pistol Club in Lysterfield.

tically last year. A silver medal at the International Shooting Sport Federation World Cup in JanuaryFebruary 2023 in Jakarta set the tone for an excellent season. Evglevski was also part of the Australian team which won a quota for the Olympics at the Oceania Championship in October-November – the right-handed local coming second overall behind teammate Scott Anderson. “My training now will be very technical,” Evglevski said. “I’m focusing on the physical aspect of the shooting building up strength.

“And my aim and technique of pulling trigger as smoothly as possible. “Shooting and especially in my event, you need to build up your strength and resistancebuilding strength. “The gun itself might not be too heavy but when you’re holding it out in one hand and it’s 1.5-2kgs of weight and you’re trying to be as steady as possible and trying to aim and hit something smaller than apple in a certain amount of time, it’s difficult. “And also cardio, because you want to be able to bring your resting heart rate down so that’s not taking over.”

sleepless nights and I doubted myself in the sense of – am I ready to be here? Can I perform? Have I done the training? “I didn’t perform the best I could but I was proud I gave it my all and didn’t give up. “I can’t change the result but that attitude is definitely something I can take to Paris.” The son of six-time Olympian Lalita Yauhleuskaya, Evglevski’s maturation as a shooter since 2021 is exemplified by his results on the international circuit in 2023. Demonstrating his confidence to rise against the world’s best, Evglevski’s average score was higher internationally than domes-

Thursday, 22 February, 2024

STAR NEWS 17

SPORT

Berwick batters collapse By Marcus Uhe An incredible fightback with the ball from Buckley Ridges saw it complete a remarkable comeback in what became a comfortable victory against Berwick in the Dandenong District Cricket Association’s Turf 1 competition’s penultimate round. Berwick flew out of the gates thanks to a rollicking hundred from Matthew Hague and a half-century from Jarryd Wills before falling in a heap in a loss that could have disastrous consequences on their finals hopes. At 1/196, Hague’s departure for 107 started a collapse in which the Bears lost their next four wickets without a run scored, and finished all out for 221 in the 54th over. All-rounder Ishan Jayarathna took four of the top six wickets in a wicked spell of reverse swing, while veteran spinner Westley Nicholas also took four, and Michael Davies the remaining two. The Bucks cruised to 2/92 at stumps on Saturday, before wrapping up the chase before the tea break on Sunday for a six-wicket victory. Roshane Silva (61) and Ben Wright (58) shared in a 115-run partnership for the fourth wicket that erased the majority of the deficit, while Jake Cronin (47) and Josh Holden (45) both made excellent contributions. Hague backed-up his century with 2/27 with the ball as the Bears’ only multiple wicket-taker. The loss sees the Bears fall out of the top four despite having occupied a position for much of the season, now needing a win over Springvale South at home to progress to the finals next week and for other results to fall in their favour. Buckley Ridges, meanwhile, remain in third place. At Narre South, a final over thriller saw Springvale South suffer a second-consecutive defeat, this time at the home of the Lions by six runs. After the pitch was deemed unsafe to use on Saturday due to moisture in the surface, the game was shortened to a 45-over one-day contest to be played on Sunday. The Lions won the toss and chose to bat

Ishan Jayarathna’s four wickets helped Buckley Ridges defeat Berwick this weekend. 386712 Picture: ROB CAREW but immediately found themselves in-trouble, with an opening spell from Jackson Sketcher reducing the hosts to 3/25, the in-form Vineth Jayasuriya joining his captain, Kyle Hardy and promoted wicketkeeper Riley McDonald in the sheds for single-figure scores. It was left to Jeevan Mendis (76) and Alex Cruickshank (50) to rebuild the innings, with both hitting crucial half-centuries in a 111-run partnership, before the returning Brad Parker’s 39 helped the home side to reach 8/211. Sketcher finished with 4/35, with Jarryd Straker held wicketless. The Bloods made a similarly poor opening to their innings, as opening pair Mitch Forsyth and Ryan Quirk were both removed in the opening two overs. Jordan Wyatt played the corresponding role of Mendis, hitting his third half-century of the season in an innings of 75, before falling victim LBW to Mendis’ leg spin. His departure initiated a collapse of 5/40, and when Straker fell at 9/161, the task ahead

of the Bloods seemed too much. Paul Hill then almost did the impossible, a brilliant 44 nearly snatching the game from Narre South’s grip. He hit boundaries to the leg side and manipulated singles with Josh Dowling as the two chipped away at an unlikely victory. With three overs remaining, the Bloods needed 16 off the final 18 deliveries. Hill’s confidence was up, clearing fielders on the deep mid-wicket boundary despite being just a single wicket away from losing the contest. The final over began with the Bloods needing just eight runs, Hardy trusting Jawed Hussaini with the critical responsibility. He bowled two dot balls to open the over, before Hill went for one too-many leg side boundaries, this time picking out Hardy on the fence on the third delivery. Hardy was the hero with the ball for Lions, taking 5/51 to decimate the opposition’s mid-

dle order, and catapult his side to second on the table. Despite the result, Berwick’s loss means the Bloods secure top spot on the Turf 1 ladder for a second consecutive year, ensuring home ground advantage for the first two weeks of finals, should they require it. North Dandenong has blown its chances of making a late run for the top four, falling short of St Mary’s’ total of 151 at Carroll Reserve on the back of a stunning performance from Saints captain-coach Susantha Pradeep. Pradeep top-scored with the bat for his side with 59 before taking 5/37 to keep the Maroons to 141. Pradeep played a stabilising role in the middle order after opening pair Wendyl Pires and Chameera Fernando were both removed without scoring. The Saints reached 151 after 69.3 overs on day one, but secured two North Dandenong wickets before the close of play to stay in the hunt. Jawid Khan was moved from his usual opening position to five, but could only manage two runs as part of a middle order that struggled to impact the contest. Clayton McCartney stood tall with a captain’s innings of 56 but was left wanting for fellow contributors, Syed Mehmood the nextbest scorer with 33. Deeshan Umagiliyage took 5/54 to join his captain with a five-wicket haul, his second for the season, in a win that keeps St Mary’s hopes of staying up in Turf 1 alive. Should the Saints defeat Hallam Kalora Park next week and Beaconsfield fall to the Maroons, the Saints could edge Beaconsfield out of the top flight on percentage. Beaconsfield was thrashed by Hallam Kalora Park this weekend by 172 runs. 73 to Jordan Hammond and 70 to Ben Hillard helped the Hawks reach 7/289, before rolling the Tigers for 117 in 45 overs on Sunday. Spinner Charith Keerthisinghe took 4/32 to lead the Hawks’ attack with the ball, Riley Clark top scoring with 27 in a side missing his brother, Tyler. The Tigers were made to bat again, reaching 1/35 when play was called.

Final-round feast a smorgasbord of Turf 1 possibilities By Marcus Uhe Thirteen rounds of action in Dandenong District Cricket Association’s Turf 1 competition have boiled down to a handful of juicy fixtures in the final week with plenty up for grabs. Of upmost importance is a replay of a one-wicket thriller between Buckley Ridges and Narre South that will have an enormous bearing on who secures not only second place and the all-important double chance, but who will likely finish fourth, and face an away elimination final. That is, unless Berwick upset Springvale South, in which the loser could fall out of the four altogether. Narre South holds second heading into the weekend, but only by a point, and will cede the advantage to the home side in a loss. Two of the form teams in the competition will offer an intriguing contest, a chance for Narre South to prove that recent results against highly-fancied sides in Berwick and Springvale South weren’t flukes. Buckley Ridges, however, are extremely hard to beat at home, and have finally settled

The task is ahead of Jarrod Goodes and his Berwick side if they wish to return to the top four Picture: ROB CAREW this week. 389338 on an XI they feel can challenge for the flag. Their batters are firing on all cylinders at an ideal time, but face the best bowling trio in the league of Alex Cruickshank, Callan Tout and Jeevan Mendis, none of which will

be overly familiar with Park Oval. Second place is also in-play for Hallam Kalora Park, if they do what is expected in knocking-off a resurgent St Mary’s, and playing conditions or wet weather at Park Oval’s

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clash sees the points shared. It’s an outside chance, but a chance nonetheless. Berwick can climb back into the four but only if they get the better of Springvale South at home. Narre South and Buckley Ridges have proved it’s possible in the last fortnight, but it will be a big ask, and almost unfathomable to think of the Bloods losing three weeks in a row. North Dandenong and Beaconsfield will play what will effectively be a ‘dead-rubber’ in regards to finals calculations, but it’s not a clash either side would wish to lose. Relegation is still a chance for Beaconsfield, should they lose, and St Mary’s win and jump them on percentage, but with the Saints facing Hallam Kalora Park, the Tigers should be safe. North Dandenong, for its part, will not want to finish the season on a six-game losing streak. Tips: BUCKLEY RIDGES v Narre South, Berwick v SPRINGVALE SOUTH, HALLAM KALORA PARK v St Mary’s, Beaconsfield v NORTH DANDENONG.

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100 for wonderful Waduge By Jonty Ralphsmith ‘Do they sell popcorn here?’ That was the apt call from one of Hasindu Waduge’s Fountain Gate teammates on Saturday after he took Lynbrook spinner James Kellett for 22 runs en route to an unbelievable century. Waduge brought up three figures with a six which sailed 15 metres over long-on, stationed right on the fence, a shot which captured the essence of his fearless innings. “(Teammate) Rodni Kumara told me I was on 99 so there was no point of knocking and getting a single so I thought I would have a crack,” Waduge said. “And I think that probably sums up Hasindu and what he brings to our side and the way he bats,” president Justin Smith added. “He’s not afraid to attack the bowlers, hit shots and get us off to good starts. “He’s got us off to some really good starts and taken the pressure off.” “It’s one of the best innings I’ve seen this year and one of the best I’ve seen at Fountain Gate for a long time.” Waduge is the second highest run-scorer in the DDCA Turf 3 competition behind Jackson Marie - the only player who could argue he has played a better knock this season. It captivated, entertained, intimidated and undoubtedly worried fellow premiership aspirants given it’s the finest of a long line of important knocks the Gators’ bat has played this season. The century came off 66 balls at a strike rate of 152 - excluding his knock, the aggregate run rate on a tricky Marriott Waters Reserve wicket was 2.78 across the course of the match. The opener’s last 44 runs came off 17 balls; once he was set, he was swinging to try and clear the carpark at Marriott Waters Reserve. After bringing up his 50 with a sweeping

Hasindu Waduge poses for a photo following his stunning knock. 389858 Picture: JONTY RALPHSMITH cover drive for four, Waduge had a 15-minute period and the sort of momentum cricketers dream about: a willow crunch echoed around the venue after every ball he faced. He forced the fielders to run to the rope more than he had to run between the wickets. Underlining just how splendidly he struck the ball, his knock contained just two singles. Alongside 15 boundaries and three maximums were a series of twos and threes, most of which were shots which plugged metres inside the rope. Opening with the patient Karan Singh, Waduge gave himself time to assess conditions,

Flyers return in great style By Marcus Uhe Southside Flyers marked a return to the basketball courts after an international break in the Women’s National Basketball League with a tight three-point win over the Sydney Flames on Sunday. The steady head of veteran point guard Leilani Mitchell was critical down the stretch, nailing a three and assisting on a Mercedes Russell layup in a pick-and-roll in the final minute, before nailing a free throw to push the lead to three points ahead of the game’s final possession. She then pressured Flames guard Paige Bradley the length of the court as she attemped the final shot of the game, resulting in a miss, the Flyers sneaking home 81-78. With the scores tied on 62 at the beginning of the final quarter, the Sydney crowd was treated to a thrilling 10 minutes of basketball that saw five lead changes in a seesawing battle. With reigning league MVP Cayla George, Sydney looked likely to pull-away on multiple occasions but the Flyers managed to find an answer time-and-again. A savvy Nyadiew Puoch converted on a Mitchell missed layup with just over four minutes to go to secure a one point lead at 75-74, an advantage the visitors never relinquished. Mitchell assisted Rocci on a wide-open corner three after collapsing the defence on a drive to the basket to push the lead to four, before a scoreless near-two minutes heightened the tension even further. Sydney cut the lead to two with 1.16 remaining as pressure got the games stars, as Mitchell missed a three and George turned the ball over in the half-court. Cheryl Chambers called a timeout with 37 second remaining, resulting in the perfectly executed Mitchell-Russell pick-and-roll with two seconds remaining on the shot-clock. Sydney managed to score on the next play, before intentionally fouling Mitchell, where she converted that critical free-throw. The match was an arm-wrestle for almost the duration of the game, a 10-point lead to the Flyers in the second quarter the biggest lead of berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

his first 11 balls yielding just two runs before he exploded. Waduge pounced on anything short or straight throughout his innings, swinging hard knowing he only needed to clear the infield to get value for his shots. At the other end for most of his innings was skipper Chanaka ‘Ted’ Sampath, whose productive 35, built off brute strength, released the pressure and complemented his partner well. Most runs in the first half of his innings came through the cow corner to mid-wicket region, before he sprinkled in elegant strokeplay through the ‘V’ with the same damaging effect.

Lakers skipper Jay Walia continued attacking with his field settings to try to thwart the right hander’s momentum which allowed him to inflict maximum pain in the first 23 overs. After taking Kellett’s first over for five fours, all swinging straight through the line of the ball, Waduge tried to repeat the dose in his second, only to be caught and bowled. It was an anticlimactic end to an innings which showed the very best of DDCA power hitting, and brought a grinding halt to the Fountain Gate onslaught. From 1/145, the Gators slipped to to 192 all out, keeping the door ajar for Lynbrook. The Lakers lost three wickets before stumps on day one but remained in the hunt thanks to a deep batting order which has been on show on several occasions this season. Despite falling to 7/73, Walia, batting at 10, nearly dragged his team over the line on Sunday with a brave 44 off 46 before the nagging consistency of Rodni Kumara proved too much. Kumara finished with 5/31 off 20.1 as the clear standout bowler of the innings. Fountain Gate’s tail was then forced to dig in to stave off the brief threat of a reverse outright when Lynbrook all-rounder Sithara Perera reduced them to 6/64, just 76 runs ahead with plenty of time in the game left. The Gators ultimately held on, getting their fruits and cementing a finals spot off the back of a jaw-dropping batting display. Waduge now has 509 runs for the season including two centuries and four 50s. “At the start the pitch was a bit tough, some balls stayed down,” Waduge said. “When Ted came to the wicket, it was really easy to bat because I had no pressure - he was hitting shots as well “I was backing myself to clear the field and was hitting it very well.”

It’s all ahead for Swannies By Marcus Uhe Casey South Melbourne’s is facing the prospect of a tricky chase at home next week as it eyes a top-four finish in Victorian Premier Cricket. Opponents, Footscray are 7/279 at the close of play on day one, having been sent in by Luke Shelton. The Swans made an excellent start to the innings thanks to the returning Jackson Fry, who removed Footscray’s key batters in Dylan Brasher and Travis Dean for minor scores. The third-wicket partnership for Footscray, however, saw the advantage swing to the visitors’ favour. Aiman Nadeem and Mitchell Jamieson were the roadblocks, putting on 120 before Jamieson was caught at square leg off the leg spin of Ruwantha Kellapotha.

The Swans took consistent wickets in the middle order to have the visitors at 7/223 but let the Bulldogs off the leash with as Jay Vine and Dylan Kight added 56 for the final wicket, both finishing the day unbeaten. Spin proved effective on the Casey Fields surface with Kellapotha, Shelton and Lachlan Sperling bowling 61 of the 94 overs. Upcoming quick Harry Hoekstra bowled just four. The Swans will need to take the remaining three wickets and chase the resulting target if they wish to climb into the top four at season’s end. In the other contests that will determine the Swans’ fate, Ringwood (second) is defending 226 against Carlton (third), while Prahran (first) is 1/32 in pursuit of Geelong’s 265 (fourth). A Swans win will likely see them finish third, securing a double-chance.

Leilani Mitchell was huge for the Flyers in the dying stages of their win over Sydney on Sunday. Picture: PICS BY TRE the match at any stage. Southside shot a superior percentage in all three categories, most notably 10 per cent better in three-point shooting, while 16 bench points to seven proved telling. Sydney star George was kept to just 14 points in 37 minutes while Russell scored 18 to lead Southside in scoring. Mitchell and Lauren Jackson added 15 each for Southside. Southside sits second with two games to play in the WNBL season but must win its remaining matches to secure a finals birth, with Bendigo, Melbourne and Sydney close behind on winning percentage. The Flyers will play Townsville on Wednesday night in a rescheduled clash after the first was postponed due to a late-January cyclone, before closing the regular season on Saturday against Adelaide.

Ruwantha Kellapotha took 2/110 for Casey South Melbourne on Saturday. 267264 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS Thursday, 22 February, 2024

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