News - Cranbourne Star News - 7th March 2024

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By Violet Li

A residential fire on Spartan Avenue has sparked fury over the undelivered Clyde North Fire Station.

Eight garages and one townhouse were destroyed in the blaze on the morning of Sunday 3 March, less than 400 metres from the proposed station site.

FRV’s Cranbourne senior station officer Geoff Baker, who was at the fire rescue, said if the Clyde North Fire Station had been built, it would significantly minimise the property loss.

A Country Fire Authority (CFA) spokesperson said 12 CFA units along with FRV crews attended the fire.

The incident was under control at 9am and deemed safe at 11.17am.

Two people were taken to the hospital for observation.

Mr Baker recalled that when Cranbourne Fire Station first responded at 8.11am, it was initially a fence fire, but it was quickly upgraded to a structure fire with reports of four garages on fire.

“By the time the fire trucks arrived on the scene at 8.21am, some 10 minutes after response, the fire had destroyed eight garages, a number of cars, one townhouse and damaged seven others,” he said.

“I apologised to the residents for the stress and anxiety they went through and apologised that our response time was not satisfactory.

“That 10 minutes is unacceptable by both FRV and CFA standards.”

FRV’s Service Delivery Standards across all of Victoria are to respond to structure fires within 7 minutes and 42 seconds.

Mr Baker pointed out the irony was the burning site was just opposite the proposed Clyde North Fire Station, which was first identified in 2009.

“It’s been on the card for at least 15 years,” he said.

FRV announced the site for Clyde North’s fire station nearly three years ago, which would be situated on the corner of Matterhorn Drive and Thompson Road.

It was estimated that work was expected to begin in 2021 and finish in 2023.

The construction has not commenced.

Star News talked to United Firefighters Union delegate for Cranbourne Fire Station

Sam Watterson in early February this year, who was frustrated at the failure to deliver the promised fire station as it posed operational difficulties to Cranbourne Fire Station.

A spokesperson for FRV commented in February that planning for the Clyde North Fire Station was underway.

Mr Baker explained that an unsuppressed fire would just continue to spread until it ran out of fuel.

“A rapid response time is critical to cut off that fire before it extends to other buildings,” he said.

“Had an FRV crew been across the road, and responded within a minute, (I have) no doubt in 25 years of professional firefighting that it would have been restricted to maybe a couple of garages.

“That’s why we are calling on Minister for Emergency Services Jaclyn Symes to fund this

Clyde North Fire Station so the residents of Clyde North can have the response time befitting of the risk in the area.”

He said that both CFA and FRV firefighters were working hard to lobby the State Government to provide the funding. FRV 2022-23 Annual Report shows that more than $7 million was allocated to Clyde North, but Mr Baker said the tender was put out some time ago.

Continued page 8

The view along Lobos Lane Clyde North showing the damage to multiple garages. 392643

Picture: GARY SISSONS

Grab the family and come down to the Casey Kids Carnival for a day of fun and excitement on Saturday 6 April.

This free event will be held at the Old Cheese Factory and is one of the City of Casey’s most celebrated and attended events.

There will be lots of free activities, including rides, face painting and a petting zoo.

Are you passionate about supporting your community and want to take your leadership to the next level?

Our Community Leadership Program is back, providing free training for new, emerging and existing community leaders in Casey who want to further develop their leadership skills and learn about community engagement and local government.

There will also be live performances and market stalls, as well as displays by local emergency services and sporting clubs.

Tickets to this event are being snapped up fast. To book, visit the City of Casey website.

Expressions of interest for the 2024 program open on Monday 11 March and close on Friday 19 April.

The program, which is open to Casey residents aged 18 and over, will run from June to October 2024 and will include 10 face-to-face workshops — nine Tuesday evening sessions and one Saturday session.

For more information and to apply, please visit our community consultation website Casey Conversations.

For application support, please email caseyclp@casey.vic.gov.au or call 9705 5722.

It’s time to hear from our valued business community.

The 2nd annual City of Casey Business Insights Survey is open until Sunday 31 March, and all Casey businesses are invited to have their say. This easy and anonymous online survey will take businesses less than 15 minutes to complete. Participants will also go into a lucky draw to win one of four $250 EFTPOS gift cards. To complete the survey, visit our Casey Conversations website or scan the QR code.

Role of Council information session

The City of Casey will return to elected Councillors when local Council Elections take place in October.

To support community members who might be considering running for Council, Casey is hosting some ‘Role of Council’ candidate information sessions.

The sessions are designed to give community leaders and residents the chance to find out more about the diverse range of functions and services local government provides, the role of Councillors and to provide the resources required for candidates for the 2024 Local Government Elections.

March in-person session

Tuesday 26 March

6.00 pm – 8.00 pm

Bunjil Place, Narre Warren

For further details and to book your spot, visit the ‘Council Elections 2024’ page on our website.

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

• Casey events: we’re reviewing our Council-run events to provide engaging, diverse, and accessible events for our community.

• Council’s Immunisation Service: we’re seeking the communities’ insights, to understand where the demands are in the service.

• Disability Access and Inclusion: we’re looking for ways we can improve disability access and inclusion in Casey.

• Affordable and alternative housing for residents aged over 55: help shape Council’s future planning and advocacy for affordable housing choices.

• Safe Around Schools Program: have your say on our Safe Around Schools Program.

Head to the Casey Conversations website to find out more.

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

A ratepayers association has called on the State Government to ban Casey’s ‘class of 2016’ councillors from standing in the 2024 elections.

Casey Residents and Ratepayers Association has written to Local Government Minister Melissa Horne, arguing that the ban should apply to the councillors sacked by the Government in 2020 as well as the two who resigned the night before.

The association questioned what councillors knew about what was going on at the council, as later outlined in the IBAC report.

It said if councillors saw “appalling behaviour”, they should have reported it.

“The fact that two councillors evaded being sacked by resigning the night before the announcement of the terminations should not matter...”

The association is seeking clarity on who will be allowed to stand at the local government elections.

“This matter must be finalised as soon as possible as potential candidates are reluctant to nominate knowing that many of the 2016 councillors have a large amount of money to fund their next campaign.”

CRRA secretary Brian Oates confirmed that the association was preparing to run candidates in the October council elections.

In 2020, Casey councillors were sacked in the early stages of the IBAC Operation Sandon inquiry into alleged corrupt deals involving some councillors and property developers.

As reported recently, several ex-councillors are weighing up re-election campaigns.

Former councillor Rex Flannery – who was not named in the IBAC report and resigned prior to the sackings – has said he would run again with a “clear conscience”.

“I was never going to be sacked for something I was never involved in,” he recently stated to Star News.

“IBAC did make contact with me but I could not give them any information as I was unaware of any transactions between certain

councillors and the developer.

“Yes I have put my hand up to run for council and I am certainly am not ashamed to be doing so.”

He also told Star News that he would reconsider if some of the councillors ‘named’ by IBAC also stood.

The IBAC inquiry report last year found former Casey mayors Sam Aziz and Geoff Ablett accepted more than $1.15 million in payments and in-kind support from developer John Woodman.

They were found to promote Woodman’s interests in several key planning decisions at Casey without declaring their conflict of interest.

It’s yet to be seen whether any of the excouncillors will face criminal charges.

Unless convicted beforehand, they would be free to stand for re-election.

Aziz, Ablett and Woodman have denied wrong-doing.

The State Government was contacted for comment.

Education key amid nearly 200 dog attacks, rushes

By Ethan Benedicto

Dog attacks and rushes have been a recurring problem in the City of Casey, and for the financial year of 2023 to 2024 so far, there’s been almost 200 reports.

According to Callum Pattie, Casey’s connected communities manager, the current fiscal period at the end of February is at 192 dog attacks and rushes that have resulted in an injury.

Michelle Farrow, trainer and owner of Inspire Me Dog Training in Clyde North is adamant that dog owners, new and old inform themselves of the basics of dog training.

She said it is essential to “make sure that the owner has had some training themselves in recall and ensuring they have effective control of their dogs”.

“Getting your dog to come back to you is important - if your dog sees something and gets excited by that, the goal is to get the dog’s attention and focus back on the handler again.

“As opposed to the dog being obsessed by that thing that’s making them excited, or drawing away their focus,” Ms Farrow said.

Mr Pattie said that public places such as parks and streets “are the most common locations for dog attacks, usually involving dogs that have escaped from their home property or that were not being kept under effective control while in public”.

“Dogs that have not been adequately socialised with other animals are also more likely to demonstrate aggression if they find themselves not contained to their property, which can lead to instances of dog attacks,” he said.

With statistics from the 2018 to 2019 period until the 2022 to 2023 period, there has been an average of 252 dog attacks in the municipality, with the highest figure of 283 between 2019 and 2020.

As for Ms Farrow, education is still the biggest factor that could curb the rising numbers, for owners and canines alike.

“Owners can teach their dogs to be dogneutral, and that’s probably what it comes

down to.

“I think a problem with a lot of pet dog owners is they’re not equipped with the skills or knowledge to effectively deal with dogs rushing up to people.

“They tend to allow it to happen since they’re not aware of how to assist them to reduce the frequency or drop their dogs from doing those things,” she said.

Another issue that Ms Farrow highlighted

was the lack of leashes on pets when out on walks, which for her is “unfair to owners that have their dogs on a leash”.

“Their dog might be walking a few metres in front of them and they [owners] don’t notice certain things.

“They might think that their dogs are great off-leash and friendly but you never know what can happen,” she said.

Mr Pattie echoed a similar sentiment, saying that certain key aspects need to be considered to keep the numbers low or prevent these attacks from happening in the first place.

“Keeping dogs securely confined within a property, and ensuring they are always under effective control when out, are key measures to keep pets and the community safe.

“The City of Casey provide incentives for residents to get professional dog training, with discounts on dog registration available for those who successfully complete a course with an Agricultural Victoria-approved dog trainer,” he said.

Employing an experienced dog trainer is something that Ms Farrow has always advocated for, recommending first-time dog owners opt for less aggressive breeds and something that “suits their lifestyle”.

“It’s distressing to see so many novice dog owners that are buying working breeds or breeds that are quite full-on, and they can’t handle them because what happens is they get them and they don’t know what to do with them,” she said.

For more information on dog ownership, registration, and reporting dog attacks, visit the Dogs in Casey page at casey.vic.gov.au/ dogs-casey

Yes volunteer Brian Oates. 365325

Michelle Farrow is the owner of and a trainer at Inspire Me Dog Training at Clyde North. Picture: SUPPLIED

Overgrown fire concerns

By Violet Li

sparked concern, after the rear of the property was overgrown with thick vegetation.

Located at 56-58 South Gippsland Highway, the approximately one-acre block of land is nestled between Tooradin Recreation Reserve and residential areas, including basketball courts.

Edward Owen, who owns one of the houses next door, has long been worried about the lack of maintenance of the rear of the land before he eventually wrote a complaint letter to Casey Council in October stating his concerns.

“The rear of [the] council property is overgrown with thick vegetation, including dead blackberries, tea trees, long grass, and reeds, which is a severe fire hazard, and it has developed into vermin harbourage for rats, snake infestation, mosquito breeding together with an accumulation of rubbish and paper,” he wrote.

“Rubbish and stagnant water due to lowlying ground and poor drainage water is below the drainage pits due to adjacent land being filled over time.

“Cyclone wire fence is in poor condition, old rusty shipping container also creating harbourage for rats and snakes.”

Mr Owen said he had to hire a snake catcher last year in August after snakes had been seen on his property causing unease.

He noted that the potential risks from the land could harm the children who were always

playing at the basketball courts only metres away.

He continued to point out the illegal burning of rubbish only metres from the long grass he had observed.

Casey Council forwarded Mr Owen’s complaint to the head of open space and city greening to follow up, who called him nearly 10 days later saying they had cleaned up the rubbish.

Mr Owen said he could still see rubbish around the site, and he was disappointed that the council did not hand him over to the fire department.

“They may just clean up once,” he said.

“They’re going their own way. They’re not coordinating with the fire officers. They’re not coordinating with the engineer.

“It’s a fire hazard. The whole of this is a fire hazard. If someone throws a match here, and a bit of wind would get the fire going. It would take all those houses there.”

At the time of visiting by Star News on Wednesday 28 February, the rear of the property was still covered with thick vegetation and rubbish was visible. A burnt log was also present next to the land.

Casey manager infrastructure and open space Mardi Cuthbert said an unfortunate oversight had resulted in the site not being

included in the council’s regular maintenance schedule, and as such it had not been regularly maintained.

“Our bushland team has now attended to the grass and blackberries at the site. We are also in the process of establishing a long-term maintenance and service plan that meets our open space standards,” she said.

“The City of Casey endeavours to maintain all of our open spaces in line with our emergency and fire prevention standards, however without reviewing the specific request, we cannot comment on who or why it wasn’t referred to the emergency management team.”

Alleged hoon fights jail indication amid list of charges

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

An alleged high-speed hoon from Berwick will fight scores of charges including speeding up to 262km/h, drag racing on freeways as well as seat-swapping with a passenger while driving on the Monash.

On 5 March, Sushant Mittal rejected a Dandenong magistrate’s sentence indication of jail and a community corrections order. His lawyer had submitted for a three-year CCO and three-year loss of licence with a non-conviction.

Mittal will instead contest up to 110 charges relating to 12 alleged high-speed driving incidents in 2022 and 2023, including counts of reckless conduct endangering life.

His first alleged offence occurred seven months after obtaining his probationary driving licence, a police prosecutor told Dandenong Magistrates’ Court.

It involved allegedly speeding up to 184km/h and overtaking at high speed on the Monash Freeway on a Friday afternoon in August 2022.

“This is literally what I do as a game,” he reportedly said while being filmed by a passenger.

The video was uploaded to social media platform TikTok, titled ‘When she’s home alone’ - which received more than 100 likes.

In April 2023 about 2.30am, Mittal

reached up to 262km/h on the Monash near Narre Warren, overtaking cars at 252km/h, the court heard.

He was said to have then travelled up to 186km/h on Clyde Road – which has an 80km/h speed limit.

Mittal was also accused of racing other cars, such as an instance of up to 217km/h on an 80km/h section of CityLink – in which he overtook 20 vehicles in 83 seconds, it was alleged.

During a videoed incident on City Link, a passenger allegedly referred to an object up ahead on the road saying: “I didn’t even see that bike”.

The court heard that Mittal replied: “See what I mean – it’s dangerous.”

On 16 January 2023, there were five alleged instances of speeding and drag racing in Berwick, Clyde North and Cranbourne North, the prosecutor told the court.

Among his alleged speeds that day were 135km/h on a 60km/h road, 152km/h on a 80km/h road and 136km/h on a 50 km/h road.

Mittal was also accused of swapping seats with his brother while driving on two occasions on the Monash Freeway.

It was alleged the car was set on ‘lane assist’ and ‘cruise control’ during the “stunts”, leaving the car effectively driverless.

The prosecutor said that as Mittal struggled to move from the front passenger seat to behind the wheel, he told his brother: “I told you to move the seat back, c***.”

A passenger filming the situation laughed, the court heard, saying “f***ing hell you c***s are f***ed, bro”.

As a probationary driver, Mittal was prohibited from driving the Mercedes AMG vehicle used in much of the alleged offending. It was seized by police on his arrest and found to be modified to reach high speeds, the prosecutor said.

Magistrate Fran Medina noted that Mittal had no prior convictions and that since his arrest and bail in April, there had been no offending.

She also noted the distress to Mittal’s family who had given Mittal the stability, education and opportunities to “catapult” him ahead in life.

Mittal was a young person clearly enjoying the thrill of his alleged high-speed driving with his friends as well as his notoriety on social media, Ms Medina said.

“The problem I have is you’re a young person not thinking consequentially. Your behaviour shows almost a callous disregard for the lives of others around you,” she said of the alleged offending.

According to psychological reports, he was now expressing remorse.

But he had plenty of opportunities for insight beforehand especially when interviewed by a police officer over alleged speeding of 187km/h on Eastlink in August 2022, Ms Medina said.

“You were given an opportunity to change your ways and you escalated,” she said of the alleged offending.

The magistrate made mention of the times of the alleged incidents - several in the afternoon and early evening - and the long period of alleged offending.

She particularly noted Mittal allegedly didn’t change - even after the Mercedes’ collision avoidance system was reportedly activated in what the prosecutor described as poor conditions and heavy traffic on the Monash Freeway in April. The prosecution alleged speeding of up to 165km/h at the time.

As a young person, Mittal’s rehabilitation was a focus in sentencing, Ms Medina said. But there was also a strong need to “send a message” that his alleged behaviour was “completely unacceptable”.

She described it as a “miracle that everyone is still alive”.

“It’s not a non-custodial sentence from me. It’s far too serious.”

Mittal was scheduled to appear at a contest mention at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on 30 April.

Residential areas were adjacent to the rear of the property.Rubbish outside of the property was visible.Basketball courts are next to the property.

The rear of the council property was overgrown with thick vegetation, including dead blackberries, tea trees, long grass, and reeds. Pictures: VIOLET LI Rubbish and a burnt log.

Amendment worry

By Violet Li

Surrounding communities of Stevensons Brothers Industries (SBI) landfill claim that the operator’s proposed planning permit amendments will lead to increased traffic, dust, and diversion of stormwater to the nearby residential areas.

SBI initiated the amendments to respond to the council’s Planning Contravention Notice on 11 January 2023, which was said to have found that “some works and operations on site are not consistent with the current endorsed plans and that certain documents for endorsement have not been prepared to council’s satisfaction“.

A Planning Contravention Notice is taken when there is a clear breach of the planning regulations, planning permit conditions, unauthorised developments, and illegal uses, according to the City of Casey.

An application to amend the permit was lodged in late February alongside documents for endorsement under relevant permit conditions.

The proposed amendments include a lessstringent wheel wash condition for trucks on the site.

The updated version allows for the use of the wheel wash where ‘appropriate’, stating that a wheel wash on dry days is considered not appropriate as there is a risk that wet wheels would pick seeds or other materials.

At the time of the writing, the amendment has attracted more than 50 objections.

Lindsay Jones* (not their real name), a resident in the nearby Settlers Run estate, said the amount of concrete dust from trucks going out onto Ballarto Road was already huge. And that it would be worse under the proposed “watered down“ conditions.

“They haven’t been able to manage the dust. Their method of management is to use the water truck every now and then to put water on the dust,” she said.

“But that doesn’t go constantly all the time. If you’ve ever driven along there, you’ll see, unless the water truck has just been, there’ll be just a load of dust.

“Watering down that condition is only going to create more dust. It is not a benefit to the community. It’s only a benefit to SBI.”

As a property owner in the Settlers Run estate, Ms Jones also raised concerns over a proposed quarry pit stormwater control which she claimed could lead to leachate runoffs onto

the neighbouring Settlers Run golf course.

The quarry pit, where the landfill cell sits, currently accepts runoff flowing from Cranbourne Botanic Gardens due to topography.

The amended plan notes that the diversion of this stormwater away from the quarry pit is difficult.

To prevent this stormwater from entering the quarry pit, a temporary recommendation is made that ‘a diversion structure is installed along the upper batters of the southern quarry pit wall to divert stormwater around the side of the wall, towards the south-west, into the existing perimeter stormwater drains along this boundary’, which leads to the neighbouring Settlers Run Golf Course.

Ms Jones was worried that stormwater that went through the quarry pit could carry leachate, which would potentially harm the environment if discharged into the golf course.

The amended plan states that rainfall runoff generated in the waste is treated as leachate, while SBI is developing and implementing practices to divert, capture, and extract rainfall within the cell area that does not come into contact with waste.

SBI believes that exacted rainfall should be considered ‘stormwater’.

“If it’s called stormwater in the future and they’re allowed to discharge stormwater into Settlers Run Golf Course, that’s going to not only increase the volume of water coming onto the course but also increase the chance of con-

taminants,” Ms Jones said.

Most of the permit amendments revolve around the site’s traffic management.

Permit Condition 15 has been revised to allow trucks exiting the sites to turn right to ‘serve properties located on the north side of Ballarto Road east of the site’.

The condition originally required commercial vehicles to enter the site via Ballarto Road from the Cranbourne-Frankston Road intersection and exit the site only via Ballarto Road to that intersection.

The amendment notes that as there is no through access to the east of the site, these truck movements will be ‘minimal’.

The proposed amendment on Permit Condition 21 is to permit trucks to be queued in front of Weighbridge 2 on-site as reasonable before 7am to ‘minimise queuing on Ballarto Road’.

The original permit only allows the site to operate after 7am, which means no truck will be in action before that time.

Casey Council is currently liaising with the applicant, statutory referral authorities, and non-statutory referral teams about the application.

The amendments will be advertised until 31 March, which has been extended from the original date of 14 March. Residents can also lodge objections anytime after 31 March if it is before the decision-making by Casey Council.

SBI has been contacted for comment.

Government steps in to return lost deposits

Affected families by the collapse of Victorian builder Montego Homes now can register to claim their lost deposits back.

The State Government is extending the Liquidated Builders Customer Support Payment Scheme to help Victorians whose builders have become insolvent without taking out insurance on their behalf – as required by law.

Around 100 extra Victorians may be eligible for payments from the scheme, joining former customers of Porter Davis Homes who were left without Domestic Building Insurance (DBI) through no fault of their own.

The expanded scheme now covers customers of builders that entered into liquidation this financial year – from 1 July 2023 up until 20 February 2024 – including Montego Homes’ customers.

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.

This extension is occurring under special circumstances and will be funded through the previously announced $13.55 million support package.

The Building Legislation Amendment (Domestic Building Insurance New Offences) Bill 2023 ensures consumers are covered

by insurance before providing any money to a builder under a contract for domestic building work costing more than $16,000.

Under new offences introduced last month into the Domestic Building Contracts Act 1995, if a builder receives money under a Major Domestic Building Contract without holding the required domestic building insurance, a penalty of up to $96,000 is in place

Accused denied bail

By Tara Cosoleto, AAP

An accused gunman has been denied bail after allegedly shooting another man during an altercation, leaving the victim with shotgun pellets in his heart and lung.

Christopher Pasi, 31, made the bail application in Melbourne Magistrates Court on Friday 1 March after being arrested in Melbourne’s southeast.

It’s alleged Pasi fired two shots at the 25-year-old man outside a funeral home in Dandenong about 5am on Monday 26 February. The court was told Pasi and two associates confronted the victim and his friends after they were allegedly caught stealing from a nearby motel.

It’s alleged after the victim produced a tomahawk, Pasi was handed a sawn-off shotgun which he fired at the victim.

The 31-year-old allegedly fired a second shot about seven seconds later which struck the victim as he fled.

The injured man was taken to The Alfred hospital in a serious but not lifethreatening condition. He had to be placed in an induced coma after shot pellets were found in his heart and lung.

Pasi was arrested in Hallam on Thursday and remanded in custody. He’s also facing kidnapping charges stemming from an incident on 30 September, 2023.

It’s alleged he forced a man into his car, drove him to a Cranbourne address and kept him there for an hour, threatening and assaulting him.

Detective Senior Constable Kai Wilkie-Bourke told the court Pasi should not be released on bail because he was a danger to the community.

There were concerns Pasi would hinder the police investigation by contacting his co-accused and tampering with evidence if released, Det Sen ConstWilkie-Bourke said.

Pasi, who represented himself in court, told Magistrate Carolyn Howe he should be released on bail because his one-year-old son was having a procedure next week. Ms Howe refused his application, saying the risk to the community was too high. Pasi was remanded in custody ahead of his next court date in May.

IN BRIEF

Grassfire in Clyde North

The CFA was called to a column of smoke sighting at Tuckers Road at Clyde North at 8.09am on Monday 4 March.

Firefighters found a grassfire that was spreading and requested a further five fire trucks to the scene.

A vehicle was also on fire at the incident.

CFA issued a Community Information warning to alert local residents to the fire due to smoke in the area.

The fire was brought under control at 8.56am.

Victoria Police was called to the scene, with the CFA having a total of six units at the scene.

Life-threatening ute fall

A Cranbourne man has been critically injured after falling off the back of a moving ute in a Dandenong car park on Saturday 2 March.

The 20-year-old allegedly fell from the white Ford Falcon ute at a site off McCrae Street about 6.20pm.

He was taken to hospital where he remains with life-threatening injuries, police say.

for an individual or $480,000 for a company.

The new offences are the first in a suite of reforms the State Government says it will deliver to ensure Victorians can build or renovate with confidence.

Applications for the extended scheme are expected to open in the coming weeks. More details are available at vic.gov.au/liquidatedbuilders-customer-support-scheme

Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives charged a 19-year-old man from Cranbourne East with dangerous driving causing serious injury.

He was scheduled to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 6 March.

A 19-year-old Hallam man and a 19-yearold Dandenong man were both arrested, interviewed and released pending further enquiries.

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

Picture: FILE

Stevensons Brothers Industries (SBI) has proposed planning permit amendments.

Joy through paint

By Emma Xerri

The cream panelled arts shed tucked away in the Old Cheese Factory has become an artistic haven for locals who have found their creative outlet through Painting with Parkinson’s.

Taking over the Hayshed Arts Space every Wednesday since 2006, attendees have found the perfect way to spend a Wednesday morning - peacefully working on a new piece of art with a warm cup of tea and some cake in hand - and are encouraging more people living with neurological disorders to come along.

“People with Parkinson’s don’t think they can paint,” long-time volunteer Christine said.

“But most of the people become quite good and get really creative. Because it’s not about the painting, it’s about the group and it’s about spending a couple of hours with people who are going through what they’re going through.”

Starting the group in response to her own Parkinson’s diagnosis was founder Anne Atkin OAM, whose artwork continues to inspire the weekly sessions, even now in the final stages of her diagnosis.

“Anne is the most inspirational person I’ve ever met,” added Christine, who was delighted to gush about Anne’s achievements and tremendous impact.

“Even though I don’t have Parkinson’s, she has always been a fabulous example of resilience.”

Also inspired by Anne’s work is devout attendee Michael, who came across Anne and Painting with Parkinson’s in 2008 on the search for something to do.

Now, more than a decade on, Michael has just received his 15-year service award for his longstanding contributions to the group, along with Christine who was recognised for

OPINION

LENSCAPE

15 years as a volunteer.

Lovingly referred to as an “instigator” by those in the painting group, Michael’s passion has been fostered by the weekly sessions.

With the space to nurture his artistic tendencies, in an environment full of “friendly faces”, Michael even had the honour of presenting one of his paintings to former Prime Minister Julia Gillard.

But while Michael has been painting all his life, when asked if art experience was needed to come along, both him and Christine immediately answered with an emphatic “no”.

“All the attendees, at all different levels, find really great things to do,” Christine added.

“There is no right or wrong. Everything is a happy accident.

“We keep all the paintings and write their names and dates on them, so it’s something

for the painters to keep to show that there is something they have done and something they enjoyed,” like brilliant painter Geraldine, whose house has become her own personal gallery.

“And it really helps, not with recovery, but with managing the disease, staying interested, keeping your spirits up and finding things you like doing.

“We’re sure there must be more people out in the community who would enjoy coming along!”

Keen painters are also welcome to attend with their carers.

For more information on Painting with Parkinsons, to join or to express your interest as a volunteer, contact Christine at 0412 499 256, or visit them at the Old Cheese Factory, every Wednesday from 10am to 12pm.

Truck boss walks free

By AAP

The man who put a truck driver behind the wheel while high on drugs and short on sleep before he killed four police officers has avoided prison.

Connect Logistics supervisor Simiona Tuteru, 52, was handed a three-year community corrections order on Wednesday, almost four years after he allowed Mohinder Singh to drive a 19-tonne truck.

After a sleepless night, Singh arrived at the company’s Lyndhurst depot and asked Tuteru to break a witch’s curse on him, since his boss was a church pastor. Singh was high on methamphetamine and having visions.

The supervisor placed his hands on Singh’s head and recited a prayer, before asking him to drive a truckload that afternoon, on 22 April, 2020.

Singh drove the truck down Melbourne’s Eastern Freeway and veered into an emergency lane. He hit three cars, includingtwopolicevehicles.LeadingSenior Constable LynetteTaylor, Senior Constable Kevin King and constables Josh Prestney and Glen Humphris, were all killed.

Tuteru was initially charged with four counts of manslaughter, but those charges were dropped about six days before he was due to face trial. He pleaded guilty to a single heavy vehicle offence in 2023, for failing to comply with his duties in the chain of responsibility.

Tuteru, dressed in a suit and tie, remained silent and stared straight ahead as he was handed the three-year community corrections order. He must perform 200 hours of unpaid community work over that time.

Justice James Elliott said Singh was a “very unreliable witness” and rejected his evidence that he told Tuteru he did not sleep before he put him behind the wheel. He also took into account the drawn out court proceedingsTuteru had faced, which included a judge placing a stay on the prosecution’s case and that being taken to the Court of Appeal.

“This proceeding has been a drawn out process conducted in a way … that could not be described as optimal or efficient,” Justice Elliott said.

The prosecution had conceded during pre-sentence hearings that a non-custodial sentence was within range. Tuteru will walk free from court onWednesday.

Singh is serving an 18-and-a-half-year jail term, which was reduced from 22 years on appeal after he agreed to give evidence against Tuteru.

SOCIALLY SPEAKING

Mums are claiming they’re not able to get a booking at the City of Casey’s Maternal and Child Health service. Casey says the service has been fully restored since December 2023. What’s your experience?

Emma Gainsford

We’ve had all of our appointments, youngest born 2021. Some have been cancelled but always another appointment has been made once I called them.

Melissa Jayne Gibb

My now two year old son hasn’t seen one since he was four months old. They kept cancelling and rescheduling and eventually stopped contacting

Liz Pattison

My 2yo was never offered any appointments since birth.. they phoned me last week to offer an eight-week program they have introduced for children identified as disadvantaged due to Covid cancellations and staff shortages.

cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

Creek Trail in Akoonah Park Berwick.

Picture: GARY SISSONS

Veteran attendee Michael presented his artwork to Julia Gillard. 392094

Volunteer Christine is always happy to help enthusiastic painters like Geraldine. 392094

The arts shed has become a sanctuary for these painters. 392094

There are plenty of brushes, paints and cakes available for new members. 392094 Pictures: EMMA XERRI

Musicians wow audience

By Violet Li

Casey Philharmonic Orchestra staged Music by the Lake at Wilson Botanic Park Berwick on Saturday 2 March, joined by a range of local dance troops, choirs, and bands.

Starting around 1.30pm and ending at 8.30pm with the last tint of sunset, the sevenhour acoustic carnival included performances from Casey Concert Band, Cranbourne Chorale, Chantelle and Friends Jazz Combo, MelbourneYouth Chorale, Cranbourne Lions Concert Band, Maori traditional groupTe Hononca O NGA IWI, and Whisky ’n Ice Jazz Band.

The day ended with the Casey Philharmonic Orchestra presenting music from well-known movies like Star Wars, Superman, Spider-Man, and The Incredibles.

Artistic director Vicki Ware said they had just over 2000 people attend across the course of the day and the vibe was really fantastic.

“People were just enjoying sitting out on

the lawn and the amphitheatre, eating and drinking and enjoying music, and kids running around having fun, so it was a really relaxed vibe too,” she said.

“When we played in the evening, everyone was really excited and even standing ovations, clapping after pieces.”

Ms Ware said they were just trying to get their music out there and share it with a wider audience.

“There’s a lot of music and other arts happening around Casey, and we don’t often get together and celebrate, so one of our aims is to get together and just celebrate how much music there is and share that with the community,” she said.

“At the moment with the cost-of-living crisis, a lot of families can’t afford to buy tickets to go to paid performances, so we wanted to run a free event in the park to make our music more accessible.”

Home fires fury: Incident sparks pleas for new station

From page 1

“Their building costs have obviously gone up and exceeded the budget,” he said.

Berwick MP Brad Battin said immediate action had to be taken to finally get the emergency service infrastructure built in Clyde North before more events like this occurred.

“Sadly, we are no longer talking about what could happen, but what is happening due to the absolute failure and incompetence of years of Labor government’s inaction in Clyde North,” he said.

“Residents on Sunday morning were watching their properties up in flames while also staring directly from their street at the empty block of land Labor promised their fire station would stand - it’s absolutely inexcusable.”

An FRV spokesperson said the planning for Clyde North Fire Station was complete.

“FRV will communicate a timeframe for construction once it is established. FRV and CFA continue to ensure the local community is provided with a high level of service.

“The new station will be a significant improvement in community safety. It is strategically positioned so FRV can better respond to emergencies and response times in the area and surrounding suburbs will improve.”

The State Government was contacted for comment.

FRV’s Cranbourne senior station officer at Geoff Baker on the empty site of the proposed Clyde North Fire Station. 393023

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

The view from Laker Blvd showing the rear of the properties. 392643

Picture: GARY SISSONS

A closer view of the garages along Lobos Lane. A concerned fire fighter asked the crowd to move back as the structure started collapsing. 392643 Picture: GARY SISSONS

Chief conductor Kent Ross from Casey Philharmonic Orchestra. 392215

A silhouette. 392215

A very pleasant evening for the concert. 392215

Pictures: ROB CAREW

Section leader Michael Bonsall from Casey Philharmonic Orchestra is playing music from Star Wars. 392215

The whole stage lit up as the sun went down. 392215

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WOMEN INBusiness

Pay gap data welcomed

The recent release of gender pay gap data from 5000 private sector employers by the national Women’s Gender Equality Agency (WGEA) has sparked heightened interest, with its unveiling marking a substantial advancement in our collective efforts to promote gender equality.

“More than just the release of the data is the discussion and debate that surrounds its release. Through the media and through the commentary, you are seeing examples of both understanding and support, and organisational resistance,” said Kit McMahon, CEO of WHISE.

Women’s Health in the South East (WHISE) is one of 12 Women’s Health Services delivering a range of services to support gender equality, and women’s health and wellbeing. As part of this work, WHISE provides services, such as consultancy, to organisations on the gender pay gap.

This includes reviewing policies and procedures to address intersectional barriers to equity in the workplace, building capacity to address sexual harassment, and providing advice and support to organisations to implement Victoria’s ground-breaking Gender Equality Act.

“Education and building capacity within organisations on the value and return of gender equality is key,” said McMahon.

“And just as important is organisations and their leaders providing the space, time and resources for organisational learning and change to occur.

“Organisations can’t assume that this work can be done in isolation; it is whole-of-business change – it is not ‘just an HR’ issue.

“It’s also how we design our services, how we promote and attract the best talent, how we are

good corporate citizens, how governance and managing risk occurs, and of course, how much profit is generated.”

To support this, WHISE has released a resource for its partners, members, and stakeholders.

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“The Gender Equality Act 2020 and Victoria’s first Public Sector Gender Equality Commissioner now mandate defined entities in the public sector to promote gender equality in their workplace which includes addressing their gender pay gap,” said Dr Rachel Bush,

Evidence and Policy Lead at WHISE.

“However, many employers feel overwhelmed by the size of this task and are unsure of what is influencing their organisation’s pay gap.

“WHISE developed a guide to provide clear and easy-to-follow steps for understanding the gender pay gap and what structures and systems within organisations are contributing to it.

The resource was launched at WHISE’s International Women’s Day event, Count Her In: Invest in Women. Accelerate Progress, at Chisholm TAFE in Dandenong on 5 March 2024.

“We are really proud of this resource,” said McMahon.

“Importantly, the resource was developed in collaboration with our partners who really want support to understand their pay gap, and how to take action to address it.”

The resource also provides users with ways that the pay gap can be closed.

“Addressing the pay gap starts with understanding that it’s a real and present thing. The data from WGEA tells us that there is not one industry in Australia that does not have a pay gap,” said McMahon.

“The second step is knowing that you can do something about it, which sounds a bit obvious, but we can’t assume that there is broad understanding across industry and community about these matters.”

The WHISE resource, Evaluating the Gender Pay Gap in Your Organisation: A Guiding Resource, is available to download at whise. org.au/resources/a-guide-to-evaluating-thegender-pay-gap

Women, treat yourselves!

This International Women’s Day, why not treat yourself or the women in your life to a day of pampering at Laser Clinics Cranbourne?

Laser Hair Removal, Advanced Skin Treatments, Cosmetic Injectables, and Fat Freezing are just a few of the services offered.

Laser Hair Removal is a popular treatment that can provide long-lasting results.

Say goodbye to shaving and waxing with this advanced technology.

Advanced Skin Treatments can help rejuvenate your skin and address any concerns you may have.

From acne scars, pigmentation removal to fine lines and wrinkles, there is a treatment for everyone.

Cosmetic Injectables are a non-invasive way to enhance your natural beauty.

Whether you want to plump up your lips or smooth out wrinkles, this treatment can help.

Fat Freezing is a revolutionary way to target stubborn fat pockets.

This non-surgical procedure utilizing Coolsculpt® technology can help you achieve the body you’ve always wanted.

We are all about the Science of Feeling Good, we have highly qualified staff utilising the latest aesthetic equipment so you

know you are in the best of hands. Beauty treatments not only improve your physical appearance but also boost your confidence and mood.

When you look good, you feel good, and that’s priceless.

So why wait? Treat yourself or the women in your life to a day of relaxation and rejuvenation this International Women’s Day. You deserve it!

Cranbourne Laser Clinic owner Janet added: “I would personally like to thank my staff who are the real women and heroes of LCA Cranbourne.

“We employ therapists, dermal technicians and nurses, they range in age from my youngest staff in their mid 20’s, others in their 30’s, 40’s & 50’s, we even have staff in their 60’s who are as passionate today as they were in their 20’s.

“The staff represent women from Australia and around the globe as I think we come from nine different countries and you should see yourself represented in them. It’s all about feeling comfortable in your own skin.

“Many thanks to my amazing team.”

Cranbourne Laser Clinic - 8592 6387. Shop 34, Cranbourne Park

The dedicated women at Cranbourne Laser Clinic - Anthea (Clinic Manager), Tegan (2IC), Amina, Momena and Ruby.

Chief executive of Whise Kit McMahon runs a discussion session at Together We can forum in 2022. 281650

WOMEN INBusiness

Reflecting on our history

By Anne-Marie Hermans, South Eastern Metropolitan Region MP

On the mezzanine level of the Victorian State Parliament Library is a small museum of artifacts with one of my favourite things - a Suffragette’s tea set.

A delicate white teapot, cup and saucer with the words ‘Votes forWomen’ crafted around its gold-rimmed edges. I often wonder about the conversations that must have taken place over a cup of tea with a teaset like this.

You might know that suffragettes were activists in the ‘Votes for Women’ campaign. In the United Kingdom the movement started about 1840 and ended in 1920. Some women went to great lengths to make their point, using art, debate, propaganda, attacking property and other extreme acts.

In Australia, the Women’s suffragette movement was peaceful but persistent. Thousands of resilient and bold women joined together to eventually create history. With their efforts in mind, we should never forget the strength of our collective women-hood to make the world a fairer and better place.

A forgotten history – and it happened in Victoria! There is a wonderful moment in world history that can easily be overlooked and forgotten because it was short lived.

Did you know that in 1863, some Victorian women were accidentally given the right to vote when our Victorian parliament passed a law to allow all ratepayers on municipal rolls to vote in Assembly elections?

In 1864, some bold Victorian women took advantage of the oversight and cast their votes for the first time. Can you imagine the victory these women must have felt?

Sadly, the opportunity only lasted a short

On

time, when, after a short debate Parliament restricted the vote to only male ratepayers with the Electoral Law Consolidation Act 1865.

A handful of women from the Women’s Christian Temperance Union and the Victorian Temperance Alliance, with other suffragette groups went door to door to gain the right to vote for Victorian women.

Thirty-three thousand Victorian women signed the monstrous Victorian Women’s Suffrage Petition in less than six months and was tabled in September 1891. Isabella Goldstein and her daughter Vida spent six weeks traveling by train and on foot to gather signatures.

Despite this, theVictorian Legislative Council (Upper House), refused to give women the right to vote. Women in Victoria could note vote until 18 November 1908.

Today, in the 60th Parliament inVictoria, for the first time in history, the Victorian Legislative Council has more women than men and I am honoured to serve in our local community as one of these women.

We all know that women have a lot to offer our world – and we should never forget this!

While we may be hormonal due to our reproductive cycles, feminine body parts and XX chromosomes, let us not forget what makes us strong. In a world struggling with issues of feminine and gender dysphoria, let us not forget the brave women who set an example of who we are and what we can become.

Our mothers, grandmothers, sisters and girlfriends have been role models and many great women like them have forged history before us and alongside us, so we can create a great future for our girls. The next time you turn on your kettle, remember the beauty in our female boldness, resilience, and the many Victorian and Australian women whose persistence gave us all a voice and a future.

Wishing you all a wonderful International Women’s Week – “Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all” (Proverbs 31).

May you never forget your immeasurable value and worth as you celebrate with your next cup of tea.

Fun fact quiz: Did you know?

1. What was the first country to give women the right to vote in 1893?

2. In 1902, what was the second nation in the world to achieve votes for women in

Federal elections?

3. Women only achieved the right to vote and stand for election in 1971 in what country?

4. Prior to Federation (when Australia became a nation on 1 January 1901) did some Aboriginal people in some states likeVictoria, vote in State (colony) elections?

5. When did Aboriginal men and women only received the option to enrol and vote in Australian Federal elections?

6. What is Vida Goldstein (patron name for the seat of Goldstein in Melbourne’s bayside area) known as?

7. Who was the first woman to be elected to Australian parliament?

8. Where was the first and most powerful suffragette campaigners with a group called the Women’s Suffrage League started in 1888?

9. When was AustralianWomen’s Suffrage Society founded in Victoria?

10. What was the first Australian state to officially grant women the right to vote in 1894?

Answers

1. New Zealand.

2. Australia.

3. Switzerland.

4. Yes.

5. 1962.

6. A suffragette.

7. Edith Cowan.

8. South Australia. It started in 1888 with two women – Mary Lee and Mary Colton. They wrote letters to newspapers, held marches and gave public speeches to influence their cause.

9. 1884.

10. South Australia.

International Women’s Day 2024 – and how suffragists women shaped our world.

the mezzanine level of the Victorian State Parliament Library is a small museum of artifacts, including a Suffragette’s tea set.

A safe, harmonious place

We wish to extend a warm welcome to your family on behalf of our school community. At St Kevin’s, our students are at the centre of all that we do. We have a strong commitment to providing a safe and harmonious school environment where successful relationships thrive. Our strength lies in the close partnerships between students, staff, parents and the wider community which is highly valued by us all.

We endeavour to educate our students to develop a foundation of knowledge, skills and attitudes for life-long learning. The school is focused on the students being prepared for a world yet to be imagined and in providing all classes with the right tools to support their engagement in a contemporary learning environment. At St Kevin’s, we build the expectation that each of us has the potential to contribute to the development of our changing world.

We provide an exciting educational program where learning is inclusive, relevant, fun and caters to the whole child. Our teachers cater for the different learning styles of all students where quality educational outcomes remain their constant focus. We strive for excellence, to instil a love of learning into our students and to make school a place where children want to be. This is achieved through the extensive range of academic, sporting and cultural activities organised by the school.

Our school is a Learning Community. In partnership with parents, staff work together to create a culture that enables children to think creatively, confidently express themselves, independently follow their curiosity and manage their learning in an organised and persistent manner to the best of their ability. We expect our students to work hard and to care for each other and to invest in making St Kevin’s a very positive place of learning.

We are so proud of our school, and meeting potential new members of our community brings us great joy knowing that we may be

at the beginning of creating and developing new and powerful relationships. If you have any further questions please do not hesitate to contact us to discuss them. Our school community is vibrant and enthusiastic and we

hope your involvement at St Kevin’s will be enriching, enjoyable and rewarding. We warmly invite you to explore our website, subscribe to a video tour or even book a physical tour so you can see for yourself why

We know you will be impressed.

The incredible benefits of chess in the classroom

Children who play chess might be better versed to take risks than their peers, as well as aiding their arithmetic and rational thinking.

Researchers from Monash University and Deakin University conducted an experiment to examine the effects of intensive chess lessons with more than 400 Year 5 students who had no previous exposure to the game.

Students participated in a 30-hour chess program, endorsed by the World Chess Federation, across a three-week period.

They were assessed on their cognitive and non-cognitive behavioural changes, including risk, time management and ability to focus, for nearly a year after the training had ended.

What it showed was fascinating.

Playing chess from a young age could decrease risk aversion by exposing kids to win/ loss scenarios and competition, as well as teaching children about strategic risk-taking.

In a survey conducted with students 10 months after the chess program, 99 per cent said they wanted more chess lessons, 94.5 per cent had played chess with a classmate in the previous week, and 87.5 per cent said they played chess regularly with friends or family.

The study was led by Professor Asad Islam and supported by Dr Wang Sheng Lee, both from Monash Business School, and Dr Aaron Nicholas, from Deakin Business School.

Professor Asad Islam said it could help model good risk taking behaviour.

“Risk and reward is a concept that is articulated well in the game of chess. Players often sacrifice pawns, knights and bishops if it helps checkmate the opponent’s king and win the game. Such sacrifices are inherently risky because if one’s calculations are faulty, the sacrifice could prove to be fatal, eventually leading to a quick loss,” Professor Islam said.

“Children need to know how to take calculated risks. If children are too risk averse it might prevent them from swimming at the beach, going to a public park or participating in contact sports for risk of injury.

“Later in life, this could also extend to ad-

olescent behaviours such as drugs, smoking, truancy, involvement in crime and in romantic relationships.

“In many life situations, it is also the case that with great risk often comes great reward. However, the line between necessary calculated risk-taking and reckless behaviour is sometimes difficult to determine. Learning chess can help bridge that gap.”

The researchers believe it could show the potential benefits of schools across Australia integrating the teaching of chess in the classroom to help young people deal with risk and reward later in life.

Interestingly, Armenia and Poland have already made chess instruction compulsory in their primary-school curriculum.

St Kevin’s is the school of choice in Hampton Park. St Kevin’s is a fantastic school – come and visit us.

FOCUS ON … CATHOLIC EDUCATION WEEK

Welcome to our school

“As one in faith we learn and grow.” We passionately create the opportunities for our young people to excel as learners, enlightened by faith, animated by love and filled with hope for their unique capacity to make a difference. As our patron saint St. Francis de Sales said,

“Be who you are and be that perfectly well.”

Care, Safety and Wellbeing

We are a happy, inclusive community, where respectful relationships and positive behaviors are the foundation for learning and daily interaction. We encourage our children to be confident and resilient, excited about exploring their potential as learners.

Learning and Teaching

We are a high performing school, with a proven record of accomplishment in learning and teaching. The curriculum and pedagogy is student-centered and personalised in response to the learning needs of each child. Evidence informs the next learning stage to be explicitly targeted and taught.

We value high quality learning and teaching strategies that are informed by best practice and research.

We ensure:

· consistent, structured framework

· strong focus on the Victorian Curriculum Standards

· high expectations for all learners

· Individual student goals

· A student’s age or year level are not barriers for learning

Excellent Contemporary Facilities

We have excellent facilities with permanent, purpose built connected indoor and outdoor learning spaces. Our contemporary environment encourages fluid and flexible use of

spaces to target learning needs seamlessly at the point of need. Our new Multi-purpose Hall is an exceptional resource that is being enjoyed by our entire school community.

How parents can help kids

With school back, it’s easy to focus on the logistics – new school supplies, shoes and uniforms – but an early childhood expert says children need emotional and behavioural support to ensure a smooth transition into the classroom.

Dr Elise Waghorn, education expert and RMIT lecturer, says children need supportive adults around them during school transitions.

“For parents, this is a crucial time to be asking your children how they are feeling about going to school, are they nervous, and what are they excited (or scared) about.

“Framing direct questions to the child like‘You look a bit nervous this morning, did you need to talk?’ or ‘You seem a bit quiet after school today, did anything happen?’ instead of ‘How was your day?’ gives them the opportunity to open up.

“Adults need to provide a calm home life for children to ease into school.

“Avoid any unnecessary stress in their life. For example, you may need to stop any extra-curricular activities in the first 6 months, so the child does not become overtired.

“It is also vital that children have a consistent routine after school, so they do not become overwhelmed, and that they have a well-balanced diet, so they are getting all the right nutrients.

“Some children may become more emotional before or after school. Parents can help by giving their child time and eye contact, listening and being responsive. What might seem trivial to a parent, can be a big deal for a child.

“Children might also require earlier bedtimes, as they will become more tired due to the busier schedule at school.”

In the lead up, Dr Waghorn says parents should focus on talking positively about school and helping to prepare their children by:

· Highlighting the fun and interesting aspects to encourage an optimistic attitude towards school. For example, ‘You are going to make some wonderful new friends’

Experts say you should try and avoid any unnecessary stress in your kid’s life as they go back to school.

Picture: GAELLE MARCEL ON UNSPLASH

or ‘I bet your teacher can’t wait to meet you’.

· Helping to develop their child’s independence skills. Involve them in making their lunch, packing their school bag and getting dressed themselves.

· Encouraging their child to talk openly and express their emotions through prompts like ‘What made you smile at school today?’, ‘What made you laugh?’ or ‘Did anything made you sad today?’

“Finally, each child will approach the school transition differently. Therefore, parents should avoid treating all children the same.”

Parents as Partners

We are committed to

our relationship and partnership with parents to ensure the very BEST outcomes.

St Francis De Sales would love to welcome you and your child.

United for nature

By Violet Li

Community association Friends of the Tulliallan Elms presented a distinctive way to support Clean Up Australia Day on Sunday 3 March, combining tree conservation education and environmental protection.

About 28 community members, including children, joined the activities at 16 Tulliallan Bvd in Cranbourne North in the shades of a lush English elm avenue with 51 trees down each side that were planted in two stages since 1900.

Served as the inaugural Quarterly Friends Gathering, the day started with participants labelling the elm trees with unique tree names given by the kids of the Tulliallan Primary School back in 2019.

“Wespoketotheprincipalandthekidsback in 2019. I asked them to bring the kids to the trees, look at the trees, ask them to imagine the personality of the trees, and give trees names,” president Raavenan Jayaraman recalled.

“One tree was a little bit tilting to the side, so kids named it Tilted Tower.

“That was 2019, and then Covid came, so we didn’t do anything about it. What we did was we printed the name of the trees.”

The unfinished project pre-Covid finally came to a satisfactory full stop in 2024.

“The first we did that way was we tied a jute string around the tree with the name hanging,” Mr Jayaraman said.

“When people go for a walk, they can see the name of the tree and try to connect with whichever tree they like.”

Participants then inspected the trees’ health based on training given by Mr Jayaraman and a checklist and wrapped up the day picking up litter around the area and then sitting down for a beautiful brunch under the trees.

A large amount of rubbish was collected, including fast food packages and water bottles.

Formed in 2018, the Friends of the Tulliallan Elms is a group of neighbourhood volunteers whose main goal is to promote interest, support, and involvement in the preservation,

care, and maintenance of the heritage-listed avenue of Elms trees in the Tulliallan estate.

The next Quarterly Friends Gathering will be held in June.

Jacob makes the leap on 29 February

Fifteen ‘Leap Year’ babies have ventured into the world at Casey and Dandenong hospitals this year.

Among those born on the rare date of 29 February was Jacob – an especially special first child of Noble Park’s Emily and Tyson, pictured.

Speaking from Dandenong Hospital, proud dadTyson said they had been wondering when to mark Jacob’s birthdays in non-Leap Years.

“It will be on 28 February because he was born at 2.55am.

“If it had been after 12pm, it would have been 1 March.”

Jacob weighs 3.4 kilograms, was doing well and already getting showered with visits from family and friends.

“We’re looking forward to getting home.”

There were six Leap Year babies born at Casey Hospital and nine at Dandenong, including baby Anaia who is also pictured with mum Shafiqa.

For the kids

For 35 years, Cranbourne CFA member Debbie Jackson has been tin-rattling for the Good Friday Appeal, raising muchneeded funds for sick children attending the Royal Children’s Hospital.

Debbie is the coordinator of the appeal for Casey Group and this year they’ll reach a huge milestone, raising $350,0000 for the extremely worthwhile cause.

Debbie said each year eight to nine brigades stand on the major intersection of South Gippsland Hwy and Sladen St in Cranbourne and rattle tins, and last year they raised a massive $15,710 for the cause.

“I remember my parents throwing out a donation through the car window to CFA and now it’s my turn to help,” she said.

“You don’t even have to ask people twice to give donations on the day. Most people throw out the window what they have. Anything above a zero and you’re helping out.”

Debbie said she was motivated to keep going after many years because it was such a good cause.

“My job wouldn’t get done if I didn’t have the support of other CFA members on the day. I appreciate everyone’s help and it couldn’t be done without them.”

Debbie said it was important to raise money for the Good Friday Appeal because nurses and doctors could only do so much without fundraising for the children.

“The bigger the total the better it is and the more you can give to the kids, the more equipment you can buy,” she said.

“In the past, I’ve had relatives go to the children’s hospital. Most families know someone who has gone for treatment at the hospital. You give back what you get.

“And every year brigade members and people driving past to donate are excited to be part of the collection on Good Friday.

“It’s a good atmosphere. It makes bridge members want to collect on the day. The kids get so excited to see the fire trucks and all our firefighters collecting.”

People attending the event. 392201

Picture: GARY SISSONS

Emily and Tyson with baby Jacob who was born at Dandenong Hospital on

Cranbourne CFA member Debbie Jackson. Picture: CFA

WHAT’S ON

Mental Health Peer Support

Program Cranbourne Group - Free

The program is based on a 12-step program of personal growth, mutual help, and support. Participants share challenges and solutions in a supportive and structured peer-to-peer format within a confidential, caring, and sharing community.

The meetings are weekly and go for about two hours.

· 10.30am to 12.30pm Thursday, excluding school holidays, 7/9 Selandra Boulevard (Balla Balla Community Centre), Clyde North. For any enquires contact: Grow Victoria 03 9528 2977/1800 558 268.

Narre Warren Family History Group

The next Narre Warren Family History Group meeting will be held on Wednesday 20 March from 7.30pm at the Cranbourne Library conference room with entry via the Casey Radio entrance at 1/65 Berwick-Cranbourne Road in Cranbourne.

Heather Arnold: Enchanted Beneath the Bluff Author Heather Arnold will be this month’s presenter, talking about her new book ’Enchanted Beneath the Bluff’, which tells the stories of some very interesting Melbourne women, who lived their lives on their own terms.

· Wednesday 20 March.

Cranbourne Friends of the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria Inc: Autumn Plant Sale of Australian plants

Location: Royal Botanic Garden Victoria – Cranbourne (Cnr Ballarto Road and Botanic Drive, Cranbourne). The plant sale will be held at the northern end of the Australian Garden. Parking and entry is available nearby (look for the large red banners). A large variety of Australian native plants will be available. A plant list will be available on our website approximately a week before the sale. EFTPOS is available.

A great opportunity to purchase plants and look around the Australian Garden.

· Plant sale dates: Saturday and Sunday 23 and 24 March, 2024. Times: 10am – 4pm on both days.

Berwick Bridge Club

Are you looking for some exercise for your brain

NEWS

that is both fun and challenging?

Berwick Bridge Club is looking for new members. Lessons are held at Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House, 21A Bemersyde Drive, Berwick. The course will run for six-plus weeks on a Monday night.

To reserve your spot phone Maree on 9702 2348.

· There is a free beginner’s course starting on 4 March from 7pm-9pm. No partner required.

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! Share a morning of music, enjoy a cuppa, or scones with jam and cream, and make new friends along the way.

· Enrolments can be made online at ballaballa. com.au/programs or by phoning 5990 0900.

Casey Cardinia Life Activities Club

Are you newly retired or new to the area or just wanting to enjoy your freedom or expand your social life?

Casey Cardinia Life Activities Club can offer you stimulating activities such as weekly social/ chat activities with low-key in line dancing if you want to tap your feet and enjoy an afternoon tea. Day, short and long trips away via coach and flights, a weekly morning coffee club, monthly Saturday country pub lunches, monthly evening dineouts, weekly table tennis club, walking groups, seasonal daytime musical theatre outings, and more.

· Come along and get to know us by visiting us on a Thursday at 2pm at Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House or join us on a Wednesday at 10am for a Coffee at Little Sparrow Fountain Gate. For more information, contact enquiry officer Gloria on 0468 363 616.

Cranbourne U3A

Come along to Cranbourne U3A meet new friends and have fun doing interesting classes. We are a not-for-profit group for over 50 retired, or semi-retired people. Our latest class will be Resin Craft, where we will be creating small items such as earrings, necklace pendants, coasters, and more. Great for small gifts for your friends. Come along and give it a try. Class

Let’s meet

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams has brokered a meeting between a “seething” manufacturers body and Treasurer Tim Pallas over land tax hikes.

South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance called for an exemption for manufacturers who have been struck by land tax hikes of up to 300 per cent in the past year.

In a fierce campaign, SEMMA – backed by an emphatic survey of its members - described the hikes as “gouging” manufacturers to cover the government’s “Covid debt burden”.

It’s a move that will cost jobs and investment as well as hinder business’s ability to compete interstate and overseas, SEMMA argues.

A Hallam manufacturer stated its land tax bill soared more than $119,000 in the past year – up from $58,575 to $177,400.

A spokesperson for Ms Williams said: “Gabrielle is facilitating a meeting between Tim Pallas and SEMMA so that SEMMA can raise their concerns directly with the Treasurer”.

SEMMA chief executive Honi Walker confirmed the meeting set for Tuesday 5 March.

The alliance earlier presented to the State opposition’s public forum on tax reform at Parliament House on 27 February.

On the same day, opposition jobs and industry spokesperson Bridget Vallence accused Jobs Minister Natalie Hutchins of being “missing in action” on the issue.

“Consumers are paying more due to Labor’s economic incompetence.

“Every time land tax goes up, manufacturers cannot invest in new equipment, cannot hire new staff or put on additional apprentices, but must raise their prices.

“Minister Hutchins must come out of hiding. Stop ignoring the manufacturing sector which is so vital for our economy and jobs,

pick up phone to the Treasurer to hold an urgent inquiry into the mess Labor has made.”

The increase in land tax rates is part of the State Government’s Covid Debt Repayment Plan introduced in 2023.

“We’re continuing to invest in Victoria’s manufacturing industry to help local businesses innovate and expand as they are key to growing our economy and supporting local jobs,” a government spokesperson said.

The changes to land tax rates and thresholds were “temporary”, the spokesperson said.

“Land tax assessments also move with land values.

“Victoria’s land tax scale remains progressive and ensures that smaller property investors pay proportionally less than those with larger landholdings.”

More than half of SEMMA’s membership comes from Greater Dandenong.

The South East region employs 267,500 people in manufacturing and provides 30 per cent of Australia’s manufacturing output.

materials will be provided for the first 4 weeks to give you an opportunity to try out a large variety of casts and molds. We have lots of samples to give you inspiration.

Our usual craft, music, chess, table tennis, and calligraphy classes are all open to new members. Come along and give it a try. Our rooms are in the Cranbourne Library Admin building, enter from the Casey Radio entrance, next door to L’Arte Cafe. We are open Monday to Friday from 10am to 3pm.

· Our website is - u3acranbourne.org.au. Check it out for more information or come along and talk to one of our friendly members who will show you around.

Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre

Located in Cranbourne North, it has vacancies in the following classes, learn to speak, read, and write in English - all levels, Monday to Thursday; Early Childhood Education classes - four hours on a Friday, government-funded, great to do before enrolling in a Certificate class; Computer classes every Wednesday morning and afternoon and in Hazaragi Wednesday evenings; Crochet and chat every Wednesday morning with a crochet teacher for free.

· Enrol now for our funded three and four-yearold Kinder Program with sessions up to five days a week. 9.30am to 2.30pm every day with structured play.

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?

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.

Berwick Springs VIEW Club

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

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

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

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

For more information, contact Shirley on 0419 878 481 or email berwicksprings.viewclub@ gmail.com

· The club meets on the first Monday of each month in the Berwick Springs Hotel function room from 11.30am, where members enjoy a lunch and then host a guest speaker.

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.

SEMMA chief executive Honi Walker is set to meet Treasurer Tim Pallas over six-figure land tax hikes on South East manufacturers.

THE LOWDOWN Q&A

Tell us about yourself and your organisation! Casey Philharmonic Orchestra (CPO) is a vibrant, young amateur orchestra that aims to present quality music that will delight audiences in the outer Southeast of Melbourne. We started in 2017 with just nine players and have grown to approximately 50-60 regular players. We perform a range of music, including popular, movie themes and classical. We also seek out opportunities to collaborate with other groups in the region, such as Melbourne Youth Chorale and other choirs, local dance schools, concert bands, and music theatre groups such as MLOC (more about the orchestra can be found at cpo.org.au/whoarecpo). I am artistic director for CPO. That means I take the lead in programming and setting the overall artistic vision of the group. A pro-am musician and ethnomusicologist by background, my ‘day job’ is in academia – teaching community development at Deakin University. My research explores community arts and the huge range of benefits they bring to communities globally. As such, I am passionate to extend that in my work with CPO, designing programmes that aim to really connect with local audiences. Orchestral music does not have to be ‘stuffy’ or boring – there is a lot of orchestral music that we all listen to and love in our daily lives, often without even realising it.

What do you love the most about working for your organisation?

Ooh that’s difficult! I love working with a wide range of musicians from all across this part of Melbourne and beyond. I love collaborating with everyone to build a bank of creative ideas that I can turn into concrete programmes. We have a fabulous, hardworking committee, and of course I love my home in the horn section. Horn players rock!

What was your most memorable moment during your current role in your organisation?

with Casey Philharmonic Orchestra artistic director Vicki Ware

I think our first ever concert in 2017 – seeing an orchestra materialise out of nothing in a region with no orchestras! That was exciting! More recently, I think our Star Wars and Harry Potter concerts were amazing – playing to packed halls of people equally as passionate as us about the music and the stories it tells. So many players and audience members came in costume, and we had a fantastic time during the interval taking photos and laughing with each other!

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

I would be a labrador retriever in a loving

home. Happy-go-lucky couch potato, and in love with the world.

What were you like as a kid?

Way too serious. Cautious, quiet and definitely not much of a risk-taker.

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

That’s a tough one. Maybe the day the Suffragette movement won universal suffrage in the early twentieth century? I know that’s kind of nerdy, but I’m passionate about equal opportunity, and people being able to have a genuine say about the issues that impact them. Which six dinner guests, dead or alive, would you invite to dinner?

I don’t really care about superstars and I don’t really have any particular heroes. I’d be most happy with some of my family and/or closest friends. That’s way more than six though. I also had some pretty awesome music teachers in high school, so I’d always jump at the chance to hang out with them.

What three words would your friends use to describe you?

Passionate, persistent, manic.

What would you do on your perfect day off?

A long massage, some good food, and a then quiet spot in a rainforest to just enjoy the silence and perhaps read a book.

Where is your happy place?

Playing music or working on my crochet projects. I can get lost in these for hours.

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

Gnocchi carbonara.

Where is your dream holiday destination?

The Outer Hebrides. I’ve recently been connecting with the Scottish aspects of my heritage (I’m a fifth generation settler of English and Scottish origin), and I’d love to spend some time there practising Gaelic, learning folk music and enjoying the stunning scenery.

THREE … things to do if there’s a fire

1 Call 000

In the event of a fire, it is crucial to immediately contact emergency services by dialing Triple Zero (000). When reporting the fire, provide as much information as possible, including the location, size, and any potential hazards. Stay on the line until the emergency operator has gathered all necessary details.

2 Stay up to date with current warnings

Visit the VicEmergency website or download the app to access realtime information about current fire incidents and warnings in your area. Keep yourself informed about the fire’s status, any evacuation orders, and other critical updates. Regularly check the website for the latest information, as conditions can change rapidly during a fire.

3 Follow VicEmergency on social media

VicEmergency maintains active social media profiles on platforms such as Facebook and X (formerly Twitter). Following these accounts provides an additional channel for receiving timely updates and alerts. Social media platforms are valuable for disseminating urgent information and sharing maps.

VickiWare. Picture:SUPPLIED

Southside unites clubs

With a name echoing across the region, Southside Racing pays tribute to the rich histories of its founding clubs while embarking on an exciting journey forward.

The club’s visual identity seamlessly integrates the iconic racecourses of Cranbourne and Pakenham, fostering unity among members and the wider community.

“The merging of the two clubs is a significant milestone,“ chairman of Southside Racing, Sean Clarkson said.

“We have large training bases at both Cranbourne and Pakenham, and a lot of industry participants in the South East as well, so we’re looking forward to improving our offering from the training point of view.

“We’re grateful and thankful to our members for endorsing the merger. We’re looking to provide them with a better race day experience, and some more opportunities to come to the races.”

Southside Racing stands asVictoria’s second largest racing club.

“This is an exciting opportunity for racing in the southeast,“ chief executive officer of Southside Racing, Neil Bainbridge said.

“This is a club that will conduct more than 60 race meetings annually, train 1500 horses daily, run four gaming venues and offer significant opportunities for our community, and for our members to enjoy racing at two fantastic facilities.

“We look forward to being a significant contributor to the Victorian Racing Industry not only now, but well into the future.”

With a significant contribution to Victoria’s

racing scene, with over a third of the state’s starters, the club plays a pivotal role in shaping the region’s sporting landscape.

Beyond the track, Southside Racing operates four community clubs, offering daily entertainment and hospitality.

With over 500 employees and an annual economic impact exceeding $300 million, Southside Racing serves not only as a premier entertainment and sporting destination but also as a vital economic engine for the region.

At Southside Racing, the mission is clear: to entertain, with a focus on customers and community, while upholding the legacy of its heritage clubs.

The club delivers raceday presentations that embody enjoyment, complemented by tailored hospitality and entertainment.

Its first-class training facilities cater to trainers and industry participants, fostering innovation at every turn.

Southside Racing is committed to creating a platform for active engagement within the rac-

ing community, valuing its social license and striving to provide both social and fundamental value to the rapidly growing region.

Chief executive officer of Racing Victoria, Andrew Jones said this was a big step for the community in Casey and Cardinia.

“The main goal is to make racing better for everybody. Better for members, better for fans, better for trainers, better for jockeys, better for the City of Casey and the Shire of Cardinia, better for the south side of Melbourne,“ he said.

“More scale means more efficiency and more money to invest in all of the things that we want to invest in, and it’s more choice for members and fans.

“I love the new brand. Southside is a great name, and it reflects Cardinia and Casey –young, diverse vibrant growing parts of Melbourne – so there’s lots to be excited about.”

The brand rollout for Southside Racing is scheduled over the coming months, marking the beginning of an exciting new era for horse racing in Melbourne’s southeast.

Southside Racing Chairman Sean Clarkson, centre, and Vice-Chairman Rick Tyrrell accept the club’s new licence from Racing Victoria CEO Andrew Jones. Picture: SUPPLIED

Michelle Webster, Don Duffy and Sonia Morgan. 392151

Former committee members at Pakenham and Cranbourne David Cook, Yvonne Blackwood, Francis Knaap and Geoff Whiffin were interested spectators at the launch. 392151

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Murrundindi helps welcome the new racing entity. 392151

Co-captains inspire Eagles

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Cranbourne Football Club has announced that Zak Roscoe and Dylan Cavalot will lead the Eagles in 2024; the first time in club history that it has gone down the route of cocaptains.

Coach Steve O’Brien made the announcement to the squad on Monday night, which represents a changing of the guard with talismanic leader Brandon Osborne stepping down from the post he has held since 2018.

The much-loved defender took the Eagles to back-to-back grand finals, including the premiership in 2022.

Neither player has permanently led their own side before with the pair keen to lead a rejuvenated Eagles outfit in 2024.

“It’s a massive honour,” Roscoe said.

“Playing juniors at Cranbourne, and then seniors, and now getting the opportunity to follow Brandon who has been captain for six years, it’s a privilege to back that up and take a young group and hopefully teach them what we have learned growing up so we can stay competitive.”

Setting the standards for the young players will be critical as Cranbourne looks to sustain its period of success.

The club will field an under-19 side this season after not getting one up last year, with several set to also push for senior footy.

“I want to make sure we’re not taking any short cuts so the younger guys coming into the club know what to expect and understand what senior footy is about,” Roscoe said.

“I want to give them a good example of that.”

While Roscoe came second in the league best and fairest in 2023 and won a best afield medal in a premiership side in 2022, Cavalot’s external status is much less known.

An in-and-under midfielder who has been in the leadership group for several years, Cavalot made his senior debut against Hampton Park in round 1, 2016, playing in the premiership side that year and has since played

88 games for Cranbourne. Cavalot missed the 2022 premiership with an ankle injury, but bounced back last year, playing all 21 games and was commonly referenced by O’Brien as an important piece in

unlocking weapons Roscoe and Jarryd Barker.

“For me, words can do a lot, but actions do more, and our group do respond well to big one percenters, big hits and putting your body on the line,” Cavalot said.

“That revs them up and gets them playing their best, so that’s something I’ll be aiming to bring.

“I’ve been at this club for a while now and have looked up to all the captains I’ve played under and they’ve given the rest of the group inspiration.

“They’re a bunch of legends so I’m pretty keen to lead them alongside Zakky.”

Roscoe is confident in the Cranbourne squad’s ability to once again contend, despite expectation it will drop off following a series of departures headed by forwards Marc Holt and Kirk Dickson.

“On paper, I’m still stoked with our 26-28,” Roscoe said.

“Teams might take us lightly but I think we’re going to have a pretty good side out there, and everyone is on the same page and buying in so I think we will be a tough team to face every week.”

The club is set to confirm the full leadership group in the next few weeks.

ROSCOE ON CAVALOT

“He’s like Brandon.You stand behind him and he’s laying 100 tackles and putting his head over the ball all day, and you stand taller.”

CAVALOT ON ROSCOE

“He’s a work horse. He goes all day. I haven’t played with anyone else who can run as hard as this guy does on the field and he’s one of the smartest footballers as well, he’s so on top of things. One of Zak’s best attributes is the way he can spread his knowledge and talk about certain scenarios in the game and make it really understandable for everyone else.”

Cutting back after strong display earns title-belt two

By David Nagel

Clyde boxer Stephanie Lee Cutting has continued her phenomenal rise up the ranks by claiming the Women’s International Boxing Association (WIBA) Super Featherweight championship at Melbourne Pavilion on Friday night.

Cutting’s unanimous points-decision win over former champion Pam McClelland takes her professional record to 6-0 after an extraordinary first year in the pro-ranks.

The former Berwick and Cranbourne footballer had her first professional bout on 17 March last year, and claimed her first titlebelt with a third-round knock-out of Fijian Maureen Chand to claim the WBF Australasian Lightweight title in mid-December.

Cutting’s Melbourne debut was won via a majority points decision, but her most recent four fights - ahead of Friday night’s victoryall come by way of knockout.

She landed the most telling blows against McClelland, applying pressure from the middle of the ring in her black and white trunks.

She used her solid right-hand with precision, rocking McClelland on occasions with her power and accuracy.

The judges agreed with Cutting’s powerful display; with the three adjudicators scoring the fight 57-56, 59-54 and 57-56.

It’s been a rapid rise for Cutting, who continues to deal with the trauma of a workplace injury that instantly curtailed a promising football and kick-boxing career.

She returned to the ring to begin a boxing career and had a busy schedule in 2023, winning fights in March, June, July, October and December.

But it’s now time for a rest, with the 33-year-old to finally give her wary and aching body a break from the grind.

“I’ve just left a meeting with my coaches and we’ve decided to have a break; to help overcome a couple of injuries that I’ve accumulated over the last 12 months, due to such a busy schedule,” Cutting said.

“It’s taken its toll, physically, mentally and

emotionally; and not just on me, on my loved ones as well.

“But we’re keeping an eye on some big fights coming up over the next month, to see who the next competition might be and the possibility of claiming a third belt.”

Cutting has a small tear in her right shoulder, which has limited her punching power in her two most recent fights.

“It will come good; but it’s time for a couple of months off before we book another fight; maybe looking at August or September before we come back,” she said.

“My nutritionist, and right through my coaching group, they all agree it’s the right time to give my body a rest before I burn myself out, enough is enough.

“The message is; imagine what you can do if you give the body a rest and come back fresh later in the year.

“And they’re right; I’ve been running on an empty tank over the last couple of fights and been fighting a little bit injured.”

Cutting is now ranked number-five in Australia in the Super Featherweight class and has a world ranking of 41….which is rapidly on the rise.

She explained that for the first time in her career, she felt a sense of calm in the ring on Friday night.

“That was the first time I’ve had a sing on the way to the ring and felt comfortable in the environment,” she said.

“I felt like; I’ve actually done it, I felt accomplished for the first time and was really proud of myself.

“I’m at a place now where I can start talking about what I went through and helping others…which is what I want to do.

“Mental health issues are a big thing, and

I just want to try and prevent anybody from going through what I went through after the workplace injury.

“I’ve got more eyes on me now, and that will give me the opportunity and platform to do what I want to do.”

Her current head-coach is boxer Blake Caperallo, with ex-fighter Sarah Howett and former world champion‘Neekz’ Johnson also in her corner on Friday night.

“I can’t thank them enough; they’ve been with me through the journey and were there to pull me through again this time around,” she said.

“There support has been unbelievable.”

Cutting has defeated Audrey Mosig, Kullasatree Nualsomsri, Nantachat Wanpeng, Siriphon Chanbuala and Chand and McClelland in her six professional wins.

Stephanie Lee Cutting celebrates her big win on Friday night with head-coach Blake Caperallo and her support team of former boxers Sarah Howett and Neekz Johnson. 393132

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Cutting remains undefeated after claiming a second title belt at Melbourne Pavilion on Friday night. 393132

Dylan Cavalot (left) and Zak Roscoe have been announced as co-captains at Cranbourne. 393328

Picture: JONTY RALPHSMITH

Lambden lights it up

By Marcus Uhe

A stirring fightback from Casey South Melbourne has locked-in a home preliminary final in Victorian Premier Cricket next weekend, after defeating minor premiers Prahran by five wickets on Sunday.

The Swans successfully defended 271, rolling Prahran for 245 in response, having recovered from spots of adversity throughout the captivating two days.

MichaelWallace’s departure in the fifth over reduced the Swans to 2/6 on day one, having lost Yash Pednekar for a duck, and with Ruwantha Kellapotha unavailable for selection through injury.

Wicketkeeper Devin Pollock, promoted to number four, became the innings’ mainstay, forming valuable partnerships with Ashley Chandrasinghe and Chris Benedek in a salvage mission.

Chandrasinghe was dismissed for 25, adjudged to have obstructed the field in a bizarre dismissal where a pull shot ricocheted back into his body and struck his hand.

The trio of Pollock (86), Chandrasinghe and Benedek (45) took the Swans to 3/155, but Benedek and Lachlan Sperling fell in quick succession, threatening to undo the hard work that stabilised the innings.

A captain’s knock from Luke Shelton (70) got Casey South Melbourne to a defendable score, and critically saw them bat for 90 overs, seeing out a full day.

But the Swans knew they had to make the running on day two, as a draw would see Prahran progress, as the higher-ranked side on the table at the end of the home-and-away season.

A 127-run opening partnership was far from the ideal beginning to the bowling innings, but a Shelton breakthrough saw the Swans roar back into the contest.

The spinner had Cameron Hemp pinned on the crease and given LBW for 61, before Jackson Fry grabbed the edge of the Hemp’s opening partner, James Billington, for 63 shortly after, opening the door for a comeback with two fresh batters at the crease.

Three more wickets fell before the break, to make Prahran 5/164, with the game well-andtruly in the balance.

Prahran dug in for the long haul, knowing that preserving their wickets and fighting for a draw would be enough to see them advance.

Shortly after the halfway point in the innings, the run rate plummeted below three, as maidens became to accrue.

But the Swans never gave up; two quick wickets to Nathan Lambden and one to Sperling saw Prahran lose 3/12, and at 8/193, only two results looked possible.

The ninth-wicket pair added 34 and soaked up a valuable 12 overs, as time remaining in the day in the day became a factor, until Fry made yet another breakthrough on the final ball of the 84th.

With six overs remaining, Shelton’s strike bowlers continued to charge in, a single wicket

away from a famous Swans victory.

And in the 89th over, it happened: A Lambden yorker rattled Aidan Wheeler’s off stump, securing the result.

The wicket was Lambden’s fifth, in a 25over spell to lead the attack, Fry taking 2/43 as the only other multiple wicket-taker.

Casey South Melbourne will put their feet up next week, before facing the winner of Richmond and Ringwood at home on the weekend of 16 and 17 March for a spot in the grand final.

The Swans defeated Ringwood in a T20 contest at home this season, but did not face Richmond.

Kellapotha will be racing the clock to prove his fitness, recovering from a toe injury.

It’s over for Eagles as Bulls put on a clinic

By Jonty Ralphsmith

The mantra of runs on the board in finals wasn’t the recipe for success in the Dandenong District Cricket Association (DDCA) Turf 2 semis on the weekend, as Parkfield and Dandy West won after bowling first.

Bandits skipper Steve Cannon’s move of sending HSD in proved a masterstroke, while Dandy West’s class shone through when it mattered most against Cranbourne.

DANDENONG WEST (1) v CRANBOURNE (4)

Malinga Bandara has led the uber-talented Dandenong West to a semi-final victory over Cranbourne, just two weeks after being bowled out for 56 against the same opposition.

Missing Turf 2 Team of the Year all-rounder Jakeb Thomas, who took seven wickets in that game, was morale-destroying for Cranbourne, but even he would have struggled to defend the paltry 88 the Eagles’ batters put up at the home ground Dandy West play so well.

The quick bowlers put the Bulls on the front foot, but it was Bandara who took the life out of the game.

The leg-spinner took five of the last six wickets, finishing with figures of 5/10 off 11.1 overs. Dandenong West chased that down inside 33 overs and will be buoyed by Shaun Weir’s efficient 44 and Venuk Hemachandra looking ominous in passing 50.

PARKFIELD (2) v HSD (3)

It was the big score Travis D’Souza has been threatening to make all season; and it couldn’t have come at a more crucial time.

After the Sanjay Kahawatte-led bowling attack put Parkfield on the front foot at the innings break late on day one by bowling the Cobras out for 155, it was all D’Souza.

Arriving at the crease at 2/12 and needing to face a hat-trick ball against Charles Gartside Medallist Triyan De Silva, D’Souza calmly

guided his team to stumps and then controlled proceedings on day two.

D’Souza played his natural game, bringing up a maiden senior century in the dying stages, following several starts for Parkfield this season.

He did it with a slashing cut short for four in front of a series of club legends watching the talented Parkfield junior guide the club he’s poured his heart and soul into through to a grand final.

D’Souza also bowled an important spell with Nick Jeffrey after tea as HSD unsuccess-

Cougars ask the question

By David Nagel

Clyde Cricket Club President Ben Knowles has confirmed informal talks have taken place between he and the Dandenong and District Cricket Association (DDCA) about a potential move of the club to the DDCA for next season.

But Knowles was quick to add.

“If it was to happen; we’ve just taken step one of fifty in the process,” he said.

“I have met with the DDCA, I’m not going to lie, but all we are doing is our due diligence for our members on what’s out there.

“We do this every five years as part of our strategic plan and it’s no different this time around.

“Every club should be pro-active; finding out information on what’s out there and then giving their members the right to vote.

“But currently there has been no motion passed by members to move to the DDCA.”

Knowles said several items of interest were being considered by the club; who currently reside in the Casey Cardinia Cricket Association (CCCA).

“There are a number of things on our strategic plan that we have to look at,” he explained.

“One thing we have never got off the ground is girls’ cricket; the DDCA has a really strong girls’ cricket competition compared to the CCCA at the moment.

“The development of our youth is something else we’re looking at as well; the DDCA is looking closely at its junior set-up and development and it all sounds exciting.

“We don’t have kids for the sake of having kids; you want to grow them and promote them and push them as far you can…and do it as quickly as possible.”

Knowles conceded there was still plenty to work through before a potential move could take place.

“The main basis of the chat with the DDCA was to ask; if we do come into the competition, how would that look being a synthetic (pitch) club in a turf-based competition,” he said.

“The DDCA has its own internal review going on; how does its structure work; and they could potentially be making some changes to the way they are set up.

“The DDCA is being proactive and trying to work through some challenges; and once we have more information we can go back to our members and assess things from there.”

Clyde has had a couple of tough years, playing its cricket at Ramlegh Reserve in Clyde North, while its traditional homebase at Pattersons Road in Clyde has undergone extensive renovations.

Knowles confirmed the ground and facilities at Pattersons Road would be back in operation for next cricket season.

“We were hoping to be back there this year; but I recently received an invitation to an official opening that will take place in early April,” he said.

“We’ve had discussions with the (junior) footy club about wall-space; honour boards…logos on doors, that type of thing.

“It will be available later in the year… after the footy club has got rid of the kinks.”

fully looked to stabilise the pair picking up six wickets between them.

It followed Kahawatte setting the game up with an 18-over opening spell, which claimed four HSD top-order batters.

De Silva could not have done any more, assessing the match situation well and going through the gears in a 138-ball 90, as he was eventually forced to hit out or risk running out of partners.

He then bowled 23 overs at Parkfield, including eight late on day one, with his two wickets giving HSD hope.

Knowles, vice-president of the CCCA, said relationships with clubs in the competition were currently sound.

“We’ve got good relationships with those clubs and we’re good friends with those clubs,” he said.

“We’ve had no reports, suspensions or sanctions; we’ve had a pretty good year, it just hasn’t translated onto the pitch.”

Clyde currently sits seventh in the eight-team CCCA Premier Division; and for the second year running, narrowly avoided relegation.

Sanjay Kahawatte set the game up for Parkfield. 392170 Picture: ROB CAREW

Nathan Lambden’s five wickets helped Casey South Melbourne defend 271 against Prahran. 204668

Picture: ROB CAREW

Talent driving VNL Demons

Casey Demons Netball is gearing up for an exciting start to its 2024Victorian Netball League campaign with the Championship and 23-under teams well prepared as they head into a fresh new season.

During an intense pre-season, Head Coach Steve Murray has been diligently building his Championship squad, making strategic additions to enhance the team’s dynamics ahead of their round one showdown with Geelong.

The dynamic Ash Gill joins the squad, bringing her elite skills to the Demons’ midcourt.

Additionally, Sacha McDonald makes a welcome return after her stint with the London Pulse in the English Vitality League.

The defensive end sees the return of Gabby Dwyer after a decade with Peninsula Waves, providing valuable experience and height to the circle.

Captain Sharni Lambden, returning from the 2023 season, is eager to see how the new combinations gel together.

The team also benefits from the presence of Poppy Douglass and Shannon Freeman, both members of the 2023 ANC Championship team, Magpies Netball.

Foundation athlete Emma Ryde, in her sixth season, continues to be a reliable target in the goal ring.

The goaling mix is further enriched with the inclusion of McDonald, offering the coaching team plenty of options to challenge their opposition.

Coaches Murray, Meagan Dell, and Donna Marsh are excited about the prospects in both attack and defence.

In the mid-court, the team boasts speed, sharpness, and grit, led by the experienced Tayla Honey and Lambden.

Sarah McCabe, stepping up from Division One, adds another zippy option in the middle.

Defensive prowess is assured with the likes of Lambden, Shannon Freeman, and Dwyer ready to cause chaos for the opposition goalers.

The 23-Under side, led by Coach Travis Pretty in his second year, is a blend of experience and youth.

New faces in Demons colours for 2024 include goalers Malia Seumanutafa, Kaylah Loulanting, and Grace van Tilberg, adding depth to the goaling circle.

The mid-court sees a combination of talent with Charlize Buskermolen, Mikayla Phillips, and Mollie Helmot joining existing Demons, Selene Chadwary and Olivia Hamilton.

The defensive end, led by captain Ella Rees, brings a mix of experience and youth with Lupe Fonua, Iliseva Sovau, Ellie Brasser, and Abbey Whitaker.

Prettyispleasedwithhowthecombinations have shaped up during pre-season matches.

After the Casey Demons Season Launch at Casey Fields, the team is focused on their upcoming matches.

Casey Demons Netball President Rebekah Bogos expressed excitement about bringing elite netball back to the grassroots community in April, with the Demons to host Hawks Netball at Casey Stadium on Wednesday 3 April.

“We are thrilled to offer our Casey Netball community the first look at our new Demons line-ups,” Bogos said.

“It’s a fantastic chance for everyone to enjoy ’Girls Night In’ while supporting Share

the Dignity and raising awareness for Period Poverty.”

Casey Demons Netball Memberships are available to purchase at https://www.trybooking.com/COUJV

Heads held high after brave battles from Cranbourne

CRANBOURNE BOWLS

WEEKEND PENNANT

On a glorious day for bowls - once the early cloud abated - the Ferntree Gully and Cranbourne Division 4 Section 8 teams did battle in the Section (Grand) Final at Noble Park Bowling Club.

Noble Park’s greens are in pristine condition and this game was played on Green 1; we were expecting a very tight and close game as you would when you get to grand finals.

Sure enough, the game had its swings and round abouts, but at the exact half-way mark Cranbourne held a four-shot lead as the teams headed for a break.

After lunch, the game again swung and Ferntree Gully had taken a 10-shot lead as the teams faced the final handful of ends.

Encouragement from the crowd urged the Cranbourne players to fight for everything; and try they did.

Cranbourne levelled the scores and it came down to the final couple of ends to decide the final.

Cranbourne was edged out by Ferntree Gully, who won the grand final by two shots.

As much as it hurt, congratulations go to Ferntree Gully and we wish them best in the Division finals.

Cranbourne 3 can hold its heads high.

Each week, all 16 players did something to support the team and it resulted in this team of wonderful people earning their title shot.

But, let’s not forget, Cranbourne and Ferntree Gully have both been promoted to Division 3 for next season.

On behalf of the Board, both Weekend and Midweek Selectors, along with the players, members, family and friends, we thank you for your efforts and congratulate you on

a wonderful achievement.

Be proud of yourselves, your efforts, just as the club is of you all.

We must thank Noble Park for being great hosts.

The barbecue and hospitality were great and the spirit and sportsmanship afforded by everyone was terrific.

It was a great day; congratulations one and all.

MIDWEEK PENNANT

Division 3,Section 8: Preliminary Final

Cranbourne 2 travelled to Pakenham to take on CardiniaWaters 1 in the preliminary final.

Under cloudy and cool skies, the match began with both neck and neck, but just prior to lunch Cardinia Waters had stretched their lead out to 22 shots.

Following some sustenance, the heart, pride and spirit of the Cranbourne Club came to the fore and they slowly chipped away, reducing Cardinia’s lead, to six shots.

Unfortunately, Rob Scott’s team, who were down by one shot, dropped four shots over the last two ends, but these were as the result of shots played by the third and Skip that took our bowls out.

Thus, this team went down by five, 19-14.

John Kent’s team of third Lesley Deal, second Kath Dudink and Lead Chris Deal, came back from 5-17 down after 12 ends to achieve an honourable draw 18-18; what a brilliant effort.

Our third team at one stage was down 7-17 after 13 ends but fought back to be 1819 before the opposition grabbed a one and a two on the last two ends.

Final score for Steve Hickson’s team was 18-22.

The sun came out after the lunch break; the wind blew, and the players had to make adjustments.

The game was played in a sportsmanlike way and in a very good spirit with Cardinia Waters 1 defeating Cranbourne 2, 59-50.

We wish both Cardinia Waters 1 and Pakenham 2 congratulations on reaching not just the Section Final, but also obtaining promotion to Division 2.

May the best team win.

Overall, the Club, Board, Midweek Selectors and players have excelled this season.

At some stages we had a lack of numbers, unavailable through illness or injury, but our great emergencies ensured we never forfeited a game and we just did the best we could.

Our thanks also go to our Greens Keeper, Greens Director, bar personnel, and to Robbie Sorensen and Mick Feeley for the work they do around the club, especially on game days.

And to ‘Hans Heroes’, who are a wonderful bunch of humans that look after our club, both inside and out; and to Maria and Fritz who water and tend our gardens.

To our raffle ticket sellers and to everybody that does something to help the club, many thanks.

That just leaves the players, who without we can’t play.

Thank you for understanding we’ve done everything we could to make midweek successful.

All teams held divisions and we have the basis for making teams better next season.

Go Cranny.

-Derek Maguire

Casey Demons NVL Championship Team for 2024. Back from left; Gabby Dwyer, Poppy Douglass, Ash Gill, Steph McNay and Sharni Lambden (Captain). Front row; Sinead Lumsden, Sacha McDonald and Tayla Honey. 393200

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Casey Demons 23-Under squad. Back from left: Grace van Tilberg, Ella Rees (Captain), Kaylah Loulanting, Ellie Brasser, Lupe Fonua, Abbey Whitaker and coach Travis Pretty. Front row; Charlize Buskermolen, Mikayla Phillips, Mollie Helmot and Olivia Hamilton. 393200

The Cranbourne 2 Midweek Pennant team. Back from left; Kath Dudink, Lesley Deal, Harry VanSoest, Chris Deal, Derek Maguire, Gerry Dudink and John Kent. Middle row; Kristi Hickson, Rob Scott, Dennis Tomlin, Steve Hickson and Team Manager Cheryl Wright. Front row: Scott De Piazza. Absent team members: Brian Turton and Phil Nielsen. 393470 Picture: SUPPLIED

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