News - Pakenham Officer Star News - 4th April 2024

Easter fun at Little Saints

The children at Little Saints Early Learning Centre in Pakenham had a great time in the lead up to Easter, with chocolate eggs, hot cross buns, face-painting and even a special furry visitor.

will include a multi-level adventure play space, fitness zone, a lookout, wetlands and boardwalk for locals and visitors to enjoy the outdoors, while new picnic facilities and public amenities will offer opportunities to stop and rest.

The next stages of construction will also include a regional-level skate park, mountain boarding tracks and a cafe.

A council spokesperson said construction was currently on track for completion in late 2024.

“Extensive civil works are currently under-

way to create usable and level open space areas on the very steep site,” they said.

“Soil removal works are expected to be completed in the coming weeks, which should reduce the dust and number of trucks in the area.

“The footpath and running trails have been marked out onsite and playground equipment installation is scheduled to start in early April.

“The design of the public restrooms is taking shape, with a unique two-level facility required to service the split-level design of the play space.”

Pakenham MP Emma Vulin, La Trobe Federal MP Jason Wood and Cardinia Council Of-

ficerWard councillor Tammy Radford officially turned the sod on Tuesday 10 October, 2023, marking the start of works on the Officer District Park development.

The $7.2 million project received $2.2 million from the State Government’s Growing Suburbs Fund, $4.6 million from the council and $435,000 from the Federal Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.

The Officer District Park was initiated by the council in November 2018, when the council passed the project’s master plan.

The project is set to serve the outdoor and recreational needs for the fast-growing area, as it will be a district level park, an area deemed

of significance to the entire suburb and surrounds rather than just the immediate neighbourhood.

In original timeframes, stage one was planned to commence in March 2020 with an expected completion by November 2022, according to a 2020 document from the State Government.

However with the Covid pandemic, the project was delayed and has been tough for council, with new rising construction prices, to get moving between the government bodies.

For more information on the project, visit creating.cardinia.vic.gov.au/officer-districtpark

Ian enjoys a chocolate egg.

Every thread tells a story

The worlds of clothing and art are set to collide at the Cardinia Cultural Centre, with the Australian Wearable Art Festival announcing its A Wearable Canvas exhibition will be running in Pakenham from Friday 5 April to Wednesday 15 May.

Featuring a collection of works from the festival, the exhibition showcases wearable art created from a range of uncommon materials including ponytail palm, pearl beads, coffee pods, shotgun aluminium, Guinea Fowl feathers and plastic mesh fruit bags along with macrame, weaving and crochet techniques.

Event curator Wendy Roe said A Wearable Canvas is a must-see exhibition for lovers of haute-couture and sculptural art.

“Australian Wearable Art Festival represents a very unique cross-section of high end hautecouture fashion with sculptural art and the detail and technique in each work is fascinating to see up close,” she said.

“Normally presented on a runway, this exhibition is a collection of some of our most spectacular winning works from the last five years.”

The 2023 Australian Wearable Art Festival Supreme winner Isabelle Cameron will have her prize-winning crochet piece Dear Babushka featured in the exhibition.

She said the work was inspired by her Ukrainian heritage and is a chance to challenge mainstream fashion norms, celebrate diversity, inclusivity and personal storytelling through hand crafted clothing and accessories.

“For me, Dear Babushka is not just a work of art; it’s a journey into cherished memories and a celebration of cultural richness,” she said.

“The meditative and labour-intensive pro-

cess of crochet intertwines with bold, contrasting colours and large-scale elements, creating a playful and dynamic silhouette that exudes joy.

“With every stitch, I poured my heart into this piece, infusing it with a touch of nostalgia that invites viewers to embrace their inner child and reminisce about the warmth of family and tradition.”

For more information, visit cardiniaculturalcentre.com.au/exhibitions_event/a-wearable-canvas

Pakenham roads project timber recycled for Scouts

The Healesville-Kooweerup Road Upgrade has donated more than seven tonnes of repurposed timber and roofing to local Scout groups.

The timber was reclaimed from the project’s former site compound on Hall Road in Pakenham South.

A large stockpile of timber was delivered to the Bell Park Scout Camp in Lang Lang to help build the group’s new timber decks, additional shelters and an expanded obstacle course.

The material has also been used to repair several structures within the park including the chapel pews and toilet block after the storm and improve their accommodation chalets.

The camp hosts local Scout groups from the wider Gippsland and south east Melbourne area on a regular basis.

A second delivery was also made to the First Kooweerup Scout Group, who built custom racks to help dry out their tents between adventures.

Bass MP Jordan Crugnale is proud to see the support going to these local Scout groups. “Donating this timber to the Bell Park and

Kooweerup Scout groups will improve their outdoor facilities and is a great way to give this timber a second life instead of going to landfill,“ Ms Crugnale said.

“Seeing this timber used to fix major storm damage is a wonderful outcome as the Scouts can rebuild what was damaged and use the rest to plan an even bigger and better future.

“We’re proud to create new reuse and recycling opportunities and it’s all part of how we are building a better Healesville-Kooweerup Road.“

The Healesville-Kooweerup Road Upgrade is hitting major milestones. Over summer, new asphalt was laid with vehicles now driving on 10km of new road between Southeast Boulevard and Manks Road.

Five upgraded intersections have also been reopened in recent months, with Island Road the most recent, and giving residents and local businesses direct access to the new Healesville-Kooweerup Road.

To complete major works, crews will be finishing the second new bridge over Deep Creek and opening it to traffic in June, as well as paving the new lanes and the approaches to the roundabouts so that vehicles can be progressively moved over to the new road. MRPV has also ticked off some major milestones on the nearby Pakenham Roads Upgrade.

Bringing in enough concrete to fill approximately 50 concrete trucks, the Pakenham Roads Upgrade has poured the deck for the new Princes Freeway bridge - pouring the 850 square metres of concrete to support the new bridge deck, weighing approximately 2000 tonnes.

The Level Crossing Removal Project works in Pakenham have made great progress as well, with the level crossings at Main Street, McGregor Road and Racecourse Road in Pakenham set to be gone this year. LXRP is also on track to open the new stations at Pakenham and East Pakenham in 2024.

Bass MP Jordan Crugnale with Scouts at Bell Park Scout Camp. Picture: SUPPLIED

2023 Australian Wearable Art Festival Supreme winner Isabelle Cameron’s prize-winning crochet piece,Dear Babushka. Picture: SUPPLIED

Vern to combat bureaucracy

By Corey Everitt

A Tonimbuk local is the next to announce their intention to run for council this year, calling on locals to stand for “better democracy” in local government and pushing a hard line against councillors who have “forgotten” to be representatives for the local community.

Vern Hughes lives and works in Tonimbuk and pays close attention to politics from all levels. Recently he took to local Facebook groups to announce his intention to run in the next council elections in October this year.

It wasn’t just an announcement, but a call out for other locals in Cardinia and surrounds to put up their hand as well, not necessarily to join him as a party but to just increase participation.

This is because, though Hughes is concerned with the bread and butter issues of roads and rates in the local community, his push in this year’s election is a broader challenge to entrenched structures and culture of local governments that he thinks have become bureaucratic and out of touch.

“Local government seems to me to be the least accountable of any of the three levels of government,” he said.

“A lot of people talk about Federal and State politics, but there is kind of not a lot of attention that goes on to local governments.”

“What happens I think is that it becomes largely unaccountable, not a lot of scrutiny of what local governments do, whether they do their job well or not.”

Mr Hughes backs his criticism further from his extensive work in social policy programs with NGOs, community services, family services, churches, and in the disability and health sectors.

The tendency Mr Hughes says he has

noticed is how council’s work grows to become more and more within the unelected and largely faceless side of council officers and managers, instead of elected representatives.

“People who have been in local government for a long time, they tend to just get absorbed

Detectives have released images of a man in the hope someone with information will come forward. Picture: SUPPLIED

into the machinery of the council,” he said.

“They have forgotten that they are meant to be a representative of the local community, they have just forgotten that.

“Instead of thinking their job is to represent the community to the council, they think their job is to represent the council to the community.

“They won’t take the community views about something to the council and say these residents are unhappy about something, what are you going to do about it.”

Mr Hughes thinks it comes from the overall natural processes of local governments and elections need to be used as they are purposed for; for the voter to check the inertia and disconnect from the public.

“I don’t think Cardinia is worse or better than others, it’s just pretty typical,” he said.

“Really the paid officers should be there to assist, implement, but over time what happens is the officers become the permanent people there, the councillors come and go.

“The councillors are always at a disadvantage in terms of knowledge of how everything works, knowledge of the council culture and finances and how things get done.

“Over time, the officers naturally come to think that it’s their show, the councillors have to fight hard to remind them that no, they are the elected people and these are just the staff.”

Mr Hughes describes Cardinia as “bloated, excessively bureaucratic” where the shire’s needs for infrastructure and the overall development of the growth corridor suffers.

“The number of hoops to jump through to get things done, it’s far too many, everything should be streamlined,” he said.

“Even though there is a huge amount of infrastructure work going on everywhere, there is still this huge lag between population and

available services and infrastructure.

“The lag is not being whittled down, it’s getting bigger.”

He said you get a situation where you’re“not really prioritising anything”, where the council is stuck in “chasing money” so they can have “a finger in every pie, spreading themselves thin”.

He doesn’t want to do this alone; he would like to help others who have similar sentiments for better democracy to also stand.

There is no intention to run it as a party or a full ticket, but simply for Mr Hughes to help others start out. He has run in elections before, including as an independent in the 2018 State Election.

He only just lost to the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party for a seat in the upper house.

“I’ve always been interested in trying to get some reform in that direction and this is just a way to encourage people to stand,” he said.

“I’m interested in standing myself; I’m also interested in encouraging and trying [to] help some other people who want to put themselves forward.

“Just a loose grouping of people trying to get a better democracy.”

Regardless of his prospects of being elected, he hopes his efforts will generate a worthwhile discussion this election season.

“It will be a more contested election than we’re used to with a few serious candidates in each ward who have got their own agenda.

“What I would certainly like to see is most of the incumbents lose and replaced with people who want to do things differently.

Officer man, 86, disturbs brazen daytime intruder

Police are investigating an aggravated burglary in Officer that occurred earlier this year.

Investigators have been told an unknown man entered a residence on Mary Street about 2.15pm on 22 February.

It is believed an occupant of the house, an 86-year-old man, was watching television in his bedroom with the door open when he heard noise coming from the next room.

Upon hearing the noise, the 86-yearold got off his bed, and confronted the unknown man who was rummaging through his kitchen drawers.

Officers have been told the man fled out

the front door and away from the property.

Nothing is believed to have been stolen, and the victim was not injured.

“I just think that would be healthy to have a good turnover and I think it’s probably fairly likely.”

Detectives have released images of a man in the hope someone with information will come forward.

He is perceived to be Caucasian in appearance, around 40-years-old and of solid build with short brown hair.

He was wearing a white t-shirt and dark shorts.

Anyone who witnessed the incidents, has dashcam/CCTV footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au

Tonimbuk’s Vern Hughes. Picture: SUPPLIED

THE LOWDOWN

Q&A

Tell us about yourself and your role at Sue’s Roo Rescue!

I have been rescuing kangaroos for 18 years and running a wildlife shelter dedicated to rehabilitating joeys for six years.

What do you love the most about running Sue’s Roo Rescue?

Releasing an orphaned joey back into the wild after I have raised it for 14 months.

What is your most memorable moment from your current role?

My first joey, Jack.

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

The obvious choice would be a kangaroo, but they have such a hard time, so I would choose an eagle.

What were you like as a kid?

I was quiet and always loved animals. What event, past or present, would you like to witness?

I would go back to before 1920 to see thylacines and try to stop people from hunting them to extinction.

Which six dinner guests, dead or alive, would you invite to dinner?

My mum, my four grandparents and my friend Marianne, who are all no longer with us.

What three words would your friends use to describe you?

Strong, caring, loyal.

What would you do on your perfect day off? Sleep.

Where is your happy place?

At home.

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

Some sort of cake.

Where is your dream holiday destination?

Somewhere sunny - the Maldives would be lovely!

with Sue Johnston from Sue’s Roos Kangaroo Rescue-Rehab-Release

THREE … ways to use up your chocolateEaster

1 Add them to your baking Chocolate is the perfect addition to almost every sweet treat, so what better way to get through your many milk chocolate eggs than through baking? Whether it’s homemade hot cross buns, chocolate chip cookies or a chocolate tart, working your Easter chocolates into your dishes is a great way to repurpose.

2

Make hot chocolate

There is nothing worse than a bland hot chocolate, and chocolate eggs are a surefire way to avoid that. Simply grab your favourite mug and pour your hot milk of choice over pieces of Easter chocolate for a perfect ‘chocolatey’ beverage.

Donate!

3

While your Easter baskets might be full, others may have gone without. Reach out to your local soup kitchens and food support groups to see if your bunnies would make a welcome addition to their grocery supplies.

Twice-rejected school facing backlash from residents

By Emma Xerri

An online petition of more than 1400 signatures is opposing a new application for a controversial proposed school near Lysterfield Lake Park.

PARED Victoria lodged a ministerial planning permit application on 15 December 2023, after two previous proposals for new private boys’ school, Lysterfield Lake College, were knocked back by both Casey Council and VCAT.

The boys’ college, which is proposed to be developed at 19-23 Horswood Road, Narre Warren North, was rejected by VCAT due to the site’s unsuitability, and incongruence with state and local planning policies intended to protect the Casey Foothills.

In a recent statement from PARED, it stated it was “hopeful” of the outcome, which is expected in the second half of 2024, and that “the school is working with the relevant areas of government to ensure the success of the application”.

It noted thatVCAT had stated the school is beneficial in planning terms as it meets state policy seeking “a diversity of primary and secondary schools”.

However, located next to Lysterfield Lake Park - which receives in excess of 500,000 visitors and tourists annually - local opponents argue the school would result in visibly intrusive urban development near the park, and a disregard for the rural expanse of green wedge land and its wildlife.

“It’s a shocking situation,” local resident and environmental advocate Karen Cavanagh said.

“The green wedge policies are just so weak.

“Once they get their foot in the door, there’s nothing stopping them from reapplying to expand the school.

“And they have to develop the whole site, because financially there are a certain number of students you need to make running a school financially viable.

“Soit’simportantthattheschoolisrefused

now, because once you’ve got a small school on the site, you can’t stop it from growing.”

Home to a plethora of wildlife in its natural habitat, the proposed site is a “haven” for animals like the kangaroo and the endangered swift parrot, along with seven other endangered species that rely on the park’s environment for survival, she said.

“The land needs to remain undeveloped to serve as a buffer zone between the town and the park.

“You can’t contain animals, they know no boundaries, so it has always been the plan for the animals of the park to be able to overflow into pastures and properties surrounding the park.”

Opponents have also raised concerns about the school’s proposed Kangaroo Management Plan.

Put forward during the VCAT case, the plan proposed the culling and relocation of the kangaroos from their natural habitat.

“I’ve been rescuing here for 18 years now, so my main concern is the kangaroos,” Sue Johnston of Sue’s Roo Kangaroo Rescue-Rehab-Release said.

“I understand it’s not their land - the national park is - but they’ve been grazing that land for years.

“At the moment, the kangaroos are free to go on that property and the next property and the next… but if that is blocked off for them, then that will push them more onto Horswood Road.”

This sentiment was echoed by the petition’s signers, one of which noted in their comment that“humans do not have the right to interfere with the wildlife just because they are ‘in our way’”.

“It’s so overdue for us to learn that without nature and healthy ecosystems we cannot exist,” they wrote.

Through their petition, locals also take issue with traffic implications.

With the school publicly advocating for parents to transport their children to school, and with no viable connection to public transport available, it would add to the traffic from private vehicles, the opponents argue.

They say it goes against theVictorian Government strategy which promotes a reduction in vehicle emissions and a focus on accessible, 20-minute neighbourhoods.

The potential influx of school-related traffic may disrupt park visitors and endanger wildlife, equestrian riders, and their horses. Additionally, the school’s presence is likely to worsen existing traffic congestion on a road

that is already heavily congested, and contribute to increased traffic volume on nearby arterial routes, notably Belgrave-Hallam Road and Heatherton Road, the opponents say.

As well as impacts to traffic, petitioners are also arguing that a school development on the site would mean significantly higher volumes of wastewater and stormwater flowing downhill from the site, affecting the neighbouring lake, dams, wetlands, and Eumemmerring Creek.

“The old Narre Warren North Township Strategy talks about making sure that land north of the township is not developed because the land is not capable of servicing septic systems,” said Ms Cavanagh.

“You’re talking about hilly land and granite boulders all around the ground, which complicate septic absorption.”

The objectors are also concerned by the location of a school at the end of a dead-end road with only one entry and exit lane in a high-risk bushfire area, which is at odds with both Bushfire Management Overlay (BMO) policies and the 2009 Royal Commission recommendations.

It will also test Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny’s commitment to strengthening protections for green wedges, going against one of the key Labor Party promises to hold strong on the Urban Growth Boundary and restricting growth beyond the boundary, the objectors say.

As the matter is currently before the Minister, PARED stated it was “not appropriate” to provide further comment at this time.

Karen Cavanagh, Kate Rousseaux, Ken Russell and Sue Johnston in front of the proposed school site. 398283

Kangaroos grazing on the proposed school site, taken from the neighbouring property.

Sue Johnston. 398283

Community rocked by double drowning

By Keira Jenkins, AAP

The community of two men who drowned while trying to save a toddler who fell into a pool is devastated by their deaths.

Dharmvir Singh, 38, and Gurjinder Singh, 65, leapt into the pool at a Gold Coast hotel to try to save the younger man’s child on Sunday, 31 March.

The two-year-old had been playing on the step of the pool before losing their footing and falling into deeper water.

The deepest part of the pool is 2.1 metres with the shallow end 1m deep.

Police said the father and grandfather were able to get the child to safety, but could not swim and got into trouble in the water.

“Unfortunately they were not able to save themselves,” Superintendent Peter Miles said.

“It’s a tragic reminder of what can go wrong and how quickly it can occur.The two-year-old is safe and well but they’re without their father and grandfather now.”

Victorian Sikh Gurdwaras Council vice president Gurdeep Singh Matharoo said it was a “very sad moment” for the community.

“I can feel the pain,” he told ABC Radio.

“It’s a pain for every family who lost their two fathers in the moment.”

Royal Life Saving chief executive Justin Scarr said there had been a number of drownings in hotel or motel swimming pools over the past few years.

He said there was a need to look more closely at safety guidelines of these pools.

“It may be that the current regime, signing

and fencing is not enough and more needs to be done, given a range of factors including the sorts of activities that people are doing in those pools and perhaps some weaknesses in people’s understanding of water safety,” he said.

Mr Scarr said there had been at least 34 drowning deaths in March across the country.

Over the 2023/2024 summer months, 99 people drowned.

The two men who drowned were holidaying on the Gold Coast from Victoria.

Premier Jacinta Allan said Victoria ran a range of programs when asked if more needed to be done to teach adults and the multicultural community to swim.

“I would certainly encourage everyone to

be safe around the water,” she said.

“Today, I think our focus should be on supporting the family and the loved ones who have gone through such a terrible, terrible tragedy at a time when they were hoping to enjoy a really lovely holiday.”

Mr Scarr said it was important for people of all ages to learn swimming skills and for young children to be constantly watched in the water.

“Ensuring that all Australians, whether they’re residents, migrants, people who were born here or from overseas, ensuring that everyone understands water safety is important,” he said.

Supt Miles said safety measures at the pool would form part of the report police are preparing for the coroner.

Reducing punter harm

Cardinia community members are invited to provide feedback on a draft document aimed at reducing gambling harm in the local community.

Input provided will help shape the final version of Cardinia Shire Council’s Gambling Harm Prevention and Minimisation Policy, which will replace the existing Responsible Gaming Policy.

Reducing harm from gambling is a legislative responsibility of the council and is a key objective in Cardinia Shire’s Liveability Plan 2017-29.

The draft policy is informed by a background paper and initial key stakeholder consultation, which outlines the council’s roles and responsibilities in minimising and preventing the health, social and economic harms associated with gambling in the community.

According to a report from the Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation, more than $35 million was lost to Electronic Gaming Machines (EGMs) in Cardinia Shire in 2022-23 – an average loss of $96,005 per day, or $365 per adult resident in Cardinia.

Studies show gambling losses usually impact those who can least afford them, including those who are unemployed, on lower incomes, or with fewer qualifications.

If you or someone you know is impacted by gambling harm, contact Gamblers Help Southern for a free and confidential chat on 9575 5353 or visit gamblershelpsouthern.org.au

For more information on the policy or to provide feedback, visit cardinia.vic.gov. au/haveyoursay by Tuesday 30 April.

There had been a number of drownings in hotel or motel swimming pools over the past few years, authorities said.

Everyone’s in harmony

Traditional and cultural dresses from Ireland, India, Sri Lanka, and Zimbabwe were proudly on display in the classrooms of Clyde Grammar on Friday 22 March as part of the school’s Harmony Day celebrations.

The school, with students from five continents across Australasia, Asia, South America, Africa, and Europe, has celebrated Harmony Day since it first opened its doors in 2020 and it has become an important and much-loved date in the calendar for students and staff.

“We are proud to have students from different cultures at our school and Harmony Day was a great opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate these cultures together,” Clyde Grammar School principal Leanne Evans said.

As part of Harmony Week, classroom lessons include activities that focus on cultural diversity and inclusivity.

The week culminates in Harmony Day where students wear cultural dresses, and everyone also enjoys music and dance demonstrations from different cultures represented at the school.

This year students took part in a Harmony Day parade and wore cultural dresses from Australia, Ireland, India, Sri Lanka, Mauritius,

Persia, the Netherlands, Turkey, Italy, Greece, Colombia, Chile, and Zimbabwe.

“I really like the parade. My little brother is in Foundation, and this was his first time. I was excited for him because it creates good memories each year. Australia is one family, and every culture is welcome in Australia,” Year 3 student Sahib said.

“I did some dancing that I haven’t done before. I really enjoyed doing the Harmony Day activities,” Year 2 student Aiden said.

Mrs Evans said Harmony Day ‘lifted’ the atmosphere of the school.

“The beautiful costumes, colourful clothing, big smiles, and sense of belonging create quite a buzz that is hard to top,” she said.

“Dress-up days always get the students excited, however, our Harmony Day celebration has a very special feeling due to the lessons that happen during the week and the meaning behind the day.

“At Clyde Grammar we continually encourage the students to be the best version of themselves and to always be kind and respectful to others. Harmony Day reiterates those important life lessons.”

LENSCAPE OPINION

THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN

Thumbs up

To all the volunteers on the gate at the Lang Lang Rodeo who so efficiently scanned tickets and organised parking. The toilets were kept clean and the rubbish bins kept from overflowing. So well done!

Thumbs down

To the people who park in the disabled area.

Thumbs up

To celebrating Easter with family.

Thumbs up

To the volunteers for theYakkerboo Festival Pakenham who are working so so hard to bring something wonderful to Pakenham and working around all the ridiculous council red tape!

Thumbs up

To Thumbs Up Thumbs Down. It gives me a chance to sit for a minute and think about something positive that might have happened in the last week. Unless of course, I might have a specific Thumbs Down item.

Thumbs down

To people who ignore No Smoking signs and puff away at hospital entrances, forcing the rest of us to suffer just to get into the hospital.

Thumbs down

To the smell of sewage and smoke in Pakenham the last couple of weeks.

Thumbs up

To my hubby for getting me a chocolate sausage dog called Snickers for Easter.

Avreen, Agam, Skyla, Lex, and Ryan. 395864

Pictures: LJUBICA VRANKOVIC

Indie, Saron, Viyansh, Anthony, Sahibnoor, and Hazel. 395864

Devyansh, Emma, Ruby, Mudiwa, Ariah, and Rehras. 395864

Ashleen, Austin, Laylah, Rrayan, and Dinaya. 395864

Harmony Day about to begin. 395864

THENOTA BAD VIEW BIT

At the immersive BBC Earth Experience, you’ll see the world from an entirely new perspective. It’s not the only place this happens in Melbourne either. Just wait until you find the thought-provoking art galleries, boundary-pushing theatre and sporting events that ignite something deep inside you. Get ready to see and feel it all, all over the city.

Hats off to uni graduates

By Emma Xerri

Federation University welcomed more than 300 new alumni last month, with two graduation ceremonies held at Bunjil Place on 27 March.

Coming together to celebrate their achievements were this year’s graduates and their loved ones, hearing from the university’s best and brightest, including graduate speaker Danielle Lewis who spoke of the importance of caffeine when overcoming academic obstacles, and urged her peers to “be fearless in the pursuit of [their] goals”.

And Danielle, who is the first in her family to graduate university, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Community and Human Services, has already made some of these goals a reality.

“As soon as my studies finished I moved into a job, so I’m working in the field already and I’m pretty excited to be pursuing my career and furthering myself,” Danielle said.

“I’m already working with a lot of my friends, so it’s really exciting to be moving into the next stage of our lives together.

“And being asked to give the speech on behalf of the graduates was incredible.

“I was super nervous, but so glad that I

New park in Clyde North

A brand-new neighbourhood park has opened within the fast-growing Smiths Lane community in Clyde North.

Located on 35 Burnbank Parade, Lacey Park is the third park to open within Smiths Lane by property group Mirvac.

It joins the popular Banjo Park and Tilion Park, providing residents and the wider community with opportunities to gather, connect, play, and explore.

Inspired by the native Lace Monitor Goanna, Lacey Park is approximately 8000 square metres and features adventure opportunities for all ages.

It includes a sandpit and sand play table, play hut, ropes course, climbing structure, swings, trampoline, slide, large kick-about lawn, and undercover barbecue areas and seating.

did it.”

Working in community services, Danielle has embraced what the university’s vice-chancellor referred to as “Federation’s purpose of transforming lives and shaping communities,” much like IT graduate Amy-Marie Patsalis, whose newfound passion for data is sure to see her navigating the ever-changing tech world in no time.

“It’s surreal. It hasn’t hit me yet that I’ve graduated,” she said.

“But now I’m definitely on the lookout for work that is IT related.

“Because of my degree, I’ve found an inter-

est in data, which I would not have expected, especially because my whole mindset at the start of my degree was around game development.

“Now, I know what jobs to look for, and I’m more experienced and more skilled.”

With passion and a keen sense of what they want to achieve, each of these students is sure to live up to the lyrics performed by former students Lachlan and Perry, who sang “we’re the movers and we’re the shapers; we’re the names in tomorrow’s papers”.

And as of now, the latter is already true.

By Emma Xerri

Oakgrove Community Centre is once again opening their doors for a celebration of community pride and collaboration.

Running from 11am to 2pm on 12 April, the Community Expo will shine a light on the many services provided by the not-forprofit organisation and beyond, placing particular emphasis on offerings from the City of Casey and other essential service providers.

“This event is much more than just a gathering,” Oakgrove’s Anu Ravindernath said.

“It’s a celebration of community resilience, resourcefulness, and mutual support.

“Attendees can expect a dynamic showcase of services and resources designed to enhance the quality of life for residents of all ages and backgrounds.

“Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to the area, this is your chance to discover the heart of Oakgrove and all the services it has to offer.”

Representatives from the City of Casey will be in attendance, providing information and assistance on various municipal services, including waste management, community programs, and recreational facilities.

And the expo will also serve as an opportunity for locals to discover the wealth of resources offered by organisations, non-profits, and businesses within their community, from healthcare providers to educational institutions, social services and cultural associations.

“The Community expo Event is a testament to the collaborative spirit that defines Oakgrove,” Ms Ravindernath said.

“By bringing together residents, service providers, and local stakeholders under one roof, the event fosters connections and strengthens the fabric of the community.

“It’s an opportunity for neighbours to come together, share ideas, and work towards common goals that benefit everyone.”

In catering to community members of all interests and ages, the day will also boast certain crowd favourites with a jumping castle and face painting.

Various sports activities will also be on offer for the budding athletes and sports enthusiasts, from friendly matches of soccer and basketball to relay races and obstacle courses.

The expo will also feature a 360 Bus, equipped with interactive games, arts and crafts activities, and comfortable seating areas.

The Oakgrove events have always been a great opportunity for residents to gather. 399173

Amy-Marie Patsalis and Danielle Lewis. 397455

Pictures: GARY SISSONSThe Australian Anthem and the Academics. 397455

Kids playing in newly-opened Lacey Park. Pictures: SUPPLIED

Lacey Park is now open.

Are you gambling more than once a week?

Research shows if you are gambling more than once a week, you are more likely to develop an issue.

FOCUS ON … SENIORS ENJOYING

Join our new Officer club

Are you retired or semi-retired, looking to meet new friends and enjoy some laughter over a cup of tea? Look no further! We are excited to announce the formation of a new Probus club, and we invite you to join us for our first interest meeting.

The meeting will take place on 3 May, 2024, at the Officer Public Hall, at 16/18 Tivendale Rd, Officer. Please arrive at 9.30am for a 9.45am start. Morning tea will be provided, offering a perfect opportunity to mingle and connect with like-minded individuals.

To RSVP for the event, or if you cannot make it but wish to stay informed, contact us directly.Your RSVP will help us ensure we have enough tea and seats for everyone.

Probus is a not-for-profit, non-fundraising organisation dedicated to keeping retirees physically, mentally, and socially active. With 1500 Probus Clubs across Australia, we offer a range of activities, including guest speakers, interest groups, outings, and holidays.

Membership involves a small once-off joining fee of $30, which covers the cost of your name badge and administrative expenses. Additionally, each club determines its own members’ fees, which help cover insurance, administrative support, and venue rental. For this club, the annual fee will be $60.

Join us for our first meeting, and let’s embark on this exciting journey of fun, friendship, and new adventures in retirement.

For more information, contact Jordan at 1300 630 488.

Join the new club for retirees and semi-retirees.

FOCUS ON … SENIORS ENJOYING LIFE

Cooking for one in style

Cooking for a crowd can be challenging, but cooking just for yourself is no picnic either. Most recipes are designed for four people, and quartering a recipe just seems a hassle, meagre and almost pointless – plus somehow in the conversion process, the taste even seems to change.

However, there are alone times when the urge hits for a really tasty lunch or dinner, even if it you cook it just for you. And if a good excuse is needed to crack the bottle of white you’ve been saving, this is it.

Giving your cooking a sense of occasion can do wonders for morale, while adding a candle to the table and using a crystal glass for the wine will take it to the next level – and don’t forget music.

Now what’s needed is an elegant recipe, one that delivers on bags of taste that belie its essential simplicity. The recipe below fits the fill nicely, so go on…get your self-pamper on.

PRAWNS WITH LINGUINE

INGREDIENTS:

· Coarse salt and ground pepper

· 60 grams linguine (about a 2cm-wide handful)

· 1 tablespoon cold butter, cut into pieces

· 1 garlic clove, minced

· Cayenne pepper to taste

· 1/3 cup dry white wine

· 125 grams large prawns, peeled and deveined

· 1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

· Fresh parsley leaves, for garnish

DIRECTIONS:

In a large saucepan of boiling salted water, cook pasta until al dente.

Meanwhile, in a small non-stick pan, melt half the butter over medium heat. Add garlic and pinch of cayenne; cook until fragrant –for about a minute.

Raise heat to medium-high; add wine. Cook until reduced by a third, about a minute.

Add prawns and season with salt and pepper; cook until opaque throughout – one-two minutes. Remove skillet from heat; swirl in lemon juice and remaining butter.

Add pasta and toss to combine. Serve, topped with parsley.

Volunteering is fulfilling

Volunteering as a senior can be incredibly rewarding and fulfilling. There are many opportunities available where your skills, experience, and wisdom can make a significant impact.

Here are some ideas to consider:

· Mentoring: Offer your time to mentor younger individuals or even peers who may benefit from your guidance and expertise. Many organizations, schools, and community programs are always in need of mentors.

· Tutoring: Help children or adults in your community with their education. You could volunteer at local schools, libraries, or community centers to assist with homework help, literacy programs, or adult education classes.

· Senior Centers: Many senior centers have volunteer programs where you can help organize activities, lead classes or work-

shops, or simply spend time socializing with other seniors.

· Nonprofit Organizations: There are countless nonprofit organizations that rely on volunteers to carry out their missions. You could volunteer at a food bank, animal shelter, hospital, environmental organization, or any cause that you’re passionate about.

· Virtual Volunteering: If mobility or health issues make it difficult for you to volunteer in person, consider virtual volunteering opportunities. You could provide online tutoring, assist with social media management for nonprofits, or participate in virtual support groups.

Remember to choose volunteer opportunities that align with your interests, skills, and schedule.Volunteering not only benefits others but also provides a sense of purpose, connection, and fulfillment in your own life.

Volunteering not only benefits others but also provides a sense of purpose within your community.

Graduate over the moon

By Emma Xerri

Now at the Melbourne Museum, the annual Top Designs exhibition, in a continuing partnership with the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA), has 87 creations on display this year, carefully selected from a highly talented pool of more than 1000 VCE applicants.

Among the young artists on display is Waverley Christian College graduate Joshua Roberts, whose piece titled the MOON Project responds to a need for contemporary design and exhibition spaces for emerging designers and artists.

“My piece is a space for young designers and creators to be able to thrive in their work and their practice, and a spot to exhibit their works,” he said.

“I started off with a love for art galleries and reflecting on how fun it is to visit different exhibitions and the sense of calmness it gives me.

“I was also thinking of my own struggles in having access to big spaces where I could do my work and be productive. So, the piece came from a combination of those two needs.”

Having only previously dabbled in architecture through his visual communication studies, the MOON Project served as Joshua’s first endeavour into model building.

“I had never done anything like this before,” he added.

“I’d done vis com projects in architecture, but I’d never built models. I’d never done the physical stuff. So, that was a challenge - in learning all the new methods and how to deal with the new materials and equipment - but also really exciting to see my project realised.

“There were a few times where I was a bit hard on myself for not being able to get things right the first time, because I’m very much a perfectionist.

“But I learnt to just be confident in myself

and know that mistakes are part of the process.”

And Joshua’s risks more than paid off. Nowamasterinmanipulatingwoodveneer, plastic and spray paint, Joshua is furthering his architectural passions at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT), and he hopes his work can serve as an inspiration for current and future VCE students hoping to earn a spot in the exhibition, just like he was inspired by

Major boost for tech studies

By Violet Li

Cranbourne West student Sahaya Merin Victor Babu

has earned herself a generous scholarship and extra opportunities for personal empowerment with her strong passion for driving positive change through her STEM major.

She has been awarded the 2024 Westpac Young Technologists Scholarship, which amounts to $20,000 in total, including travel expenses for the leadership programs across the state and overseas and three years of financial support for her studies.

She is one of the 35 recipients of the scholarship who are passionate about technology and eager to explore its potential for good.

A Bachelor of Software Engineering student at RMIT, Merin has been interested in improving cybersecurity and developing innovative solutions that make technology more secure and reliable for all users.

“I feel like as much as technology has improved in our world, there are a lot of dangerous risks as well,” she said.

“And I feel like I should at least help support the solutions that save people from becoming problematic with technology.

“I’m hoping to further improve the problems associated with technology with the scholarship.”

Merin is also ardent about advancing her skills and knowledge related to AI.

“Everyone’s been using ChatGPT a lot and in the universities as well. People are relying on it a lot,” she said.

“That’s what I’m interested in AI, like how to minimise the use of ChatGPT for learning because it might affect your studies. You will not understand everything you learn if you keep relying on it.”

When Merin first chose her major, it was more of a decision directed by societal trends.

“When it was time to choose my course, my parents, my sister, and my friends, all suggested that I should do a technology-related degree because tech is like a booming industry in the world right now,” she recalled.

However, as she finally engaged herself with the course and the scholarship, she realised that her major would help a lot of peo-

ple in society.

“I didn’t have an idea at the start, but then once I entered my degree, I realised how important it was and how much I should contribute to it,” she said.

Merin said she really appreciated the opportunities the scholarship had and would provide.

“There’s a lot of training courses in coding,” she said.

“And there are a lot of leadership programs.

I attended a summit in Sydney. They had a lot of talks about reimagining your future, your life, and how you can support society with a technology-related degree.”

those before him.

“One of my friend’s [work] was exhibited in 2020, so to know that they had done it was really cool because it made me realise that it was something that was achievable.

“There’s 1000 applications and it’s an exhibition of only 87 people, so I think it’s a really cool opportunity to have my work on display, and a huge honour to be surrounded by so many other insanely creative people.

“And having my piece in that exhibit space with all the other amazing works makes it look even better.

“I hope that students attending the exhibition can be inspired in what they can do in their ownVCE endeavours, and realise that the possibilities are endless.”

Top Designs is open to the public at the Melbourne Museum until Sunday 14 July.

Abalone leads to $6k fine

By Violet Li

A Cranbourne East man has received a fine without conviction for trafficking a commercial quantity of abalone.

Junior Finai, 24 at the time of the offending, was involved in a syndicate of 10, known as the Cruse Syndicate, that illegally harvested abalone in Victoria between January and April 2020.

He pleaded guilty in the County Court of Victoria on 21 February 2024 to a single offence and was fined $6,000 without conviction.

On 28 March 2020, investigators observed that Mr Finai and other syndicate members dived west of Crayfish Bay and one of them “made his way out of the water dragging a green mesh catch bag along the shallows while attempting to conceal its contents”, the court heard.

Mr Finai was observed on two occasions “carrying a mesh catch bag containing large quantities of abalone” and was photographed holding a screwdriver, a tool commonly used to shuck abalone.

Approximately 250 abalone were obtained.

A conversation between Mr Finai and another member was recorded later the day regarding the price of abalone per kilogram and how much each member expected to receive after the sale.

On 29 March, other syndicate members were seen in Springvale to sell the illegally harvested abalone from the day before.

Mr Finai was found not to hold a relevant fishery access licence or act on behalf of the holder of an access licence at the time of the offending.

The court also heard that 28 March 2020 was a designated closed day to harvest any abalone in central Victorian waters.

Abalone is identified as a priority species under the Fisheries Act 1995 (FA) and only holders of commercial fishery access licences are permitted to take it for sale.

The annual quota of commercial abalo-

ne fishery inVictoria is 100 or more abalone or 10 kilograms or more abalone including shells.

Trafficking in a commercial quantity of a priority species is a serious offence and offenders could face the maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.

Judge Douglas Trapnell noted that the offence occurred on a single occasion and fell at the lower end of offending of this type given the relatively minor role Mr Finai played in the syndicate.

“Your offending was of a short duration, occurring over the course of a two-day period,” he said.

“Moreover, you were not directly involved in that sale.

“Finally, there is no evidence to suggest you benefited financially from your offending.”

Judge Trapnell called upon the delay of the charge and Mr Finai’s respective pleas of guilty as mitigating circumstances.

Judge Trapnell opined that a $6000 fine without conviction was the “appropriate disposition”, given the seriousness of the offence, Mr Finai’s culpability for it, and his personal circumstances.

“I accept you have not reoffended,” he said.

“I also accept you have a long history of gainful employment and enjoy a stable relationship with your current partner.

“These are protection factors which auger well for your future prospects of rehabilitation.”

Joshua Roberts. Pictures: NICOLE CLEARY,COURTESY OF THE VICTORIAN CURRICULUM AND ASSESSMENT AUTHORITY

A Bachelor of Software Engineering student at RMIT,Sahaya Merin Victor Babu has been awarded the 2024 Westpac Young Technologists Scholarship. 398335

Picture: ROB CAREW

Call for parking solution

By Emma Xerri

Currently sharing their car park with the area’s other facilities, the Timbarra Community Centre is hoping measures can be put in place to safeguard some spots for their patrons, who are struggling to benefit from the centre’s many enriching services.

Located off Parkhill Drive, just next door to Monash Health, Windermere Family Services and Headstart Early Learning Centre, parking for Community Centre staff and patrons has been a consistent struggle, with insufficient spaces to currently accommodate those visiting them and the neighbouring facilities.

For centre manager Kim Peterson, this is especially concerning for the centre’s senior attendees, who use the activities provided as a “lifeline”.

“You might think it’s just a knitting group or a gardening group or whatever it may be, but this is a lifeline for a lot of people,” she said.

“We live in the City of Casey where we’re increasingly trying to support the ageing population, and look at what we can do to keep them interacting to support their longevity and wellbeing.

“Attending these groups could be the most significant part of their day, and if you’ve had to turn away because you couldn’t find accessible parking, then a little thing becomes a big thing.”

Unfortunately for these senior patrons, who look to the weekly activities as a much-needed social avenue, the inaccessible car park has meant many have been unable to return.

“If there’s overflow from the other facilities, they take up a lot of our car park too,” Ms Peterson added.

“So much so that by the time we’re ready to start some of our activities, there’s no substantial parking left for people.

“This has resulted, in the past, with some people not returning because the car park is too hard to access, which is a real shame.

“And it’s hard when you’re getting there at half past eight some days and there’s already no car parks.

“I do my best to get to the centre early to put out witches hats to provide some space for

our mobility-limited patrons, but it’s frustrating when you know people want to attend our services but are at stages of their life that will make doing so a struggle.

“The whole concept of a neighbourhood house is to create social inclusion.”

Regular knitting group attendee and carer, Monica, notes that in order for her to bring her client to the weekly knitting group, this often requires her parking three blocks away.

“I’m a carer for Victoria, and it’s very hard for her to walk three blocks to the centre,” she said.

“Otherwise I would have to drop her off and leave her here alone while I park, which is not very safe.

“Most of the people who come to these groups are older people with various health issues, so it would be nice if there were some signs around encouraging healthier patrons to leave the closer car parks for less abled people.

Or even if we could get permission to park on the grass, because we get fined if we do.

“Of course, people from other facilities have the right to park here, it’s not illegal. But they have to be more considerate.”

This sentiment was shared by fellow knitting group attendee Glynis, who proposes that seniors parking signage could be used as a potential solution.

“Maybe that would trigger their conscience,” she said.

But for Ms Peterson and the centre’s many attendees, there is no single path forward, rather an underlying hope that greater awareness will allow for some measures to be put in place.

“In a perfect world, we would extend the car park. However, I don’t think that’s likely,” she added.

“So the other option is timed parking, which I don’t think will make anyone happy. It

will never be the right amount of time for people, and it will be hard to monitor. And what if there are people who attend our facility and want to stay for more than one thing?

“Other facilities have set aside parking for their patrons, so maybe we could have some parks that are dedicated for neighbourhood house attendees.

“There must be a better way for us to work harmoniously.

“We want all services to be accommodated. We’re not just rattling our cages saying ‘it’s all about me’. I know there are parents who would struggle getting their kids toWindermere Family Services, same too with the kindergarten if you have parents trying to drop multiple kids off.

“The Berwick Neighbourhood Centre is for everyone. We’re not trying to upset anyone, we really just want to make it so that the community has a fair ability to get to these services and activities that we wish to provide.”

The car park is often full to the brim. 398855

Parking on the grass has become a must for some of the centre’s patrons. 398855

The gardening group provides a way to socialise and problem solve with likeminded locals. 398855

For people like Veronica, the inaccessible car park makes attending knitting group difficult. 398855

Positively influencing sales

TAKING CARE

It is often said that ‘people do business with those that they know, like and trust’ and this is indeed true, but what happens if you are trying to do business with someone that you don’t know? Does that mean that there is no possibility of a sale? Of course this can’t be correct, but it will certainly be harder to get someone to purchase in this case so let’s see how this might be achieved in this event.

Personality profiling has become increasingly popular over the years as the tools in this space mature and its relevance to business more and more established. A personality profile is created through an assessment of an individual by a series of questions that provide an insight into their behavioural preferences and hence provides an indication of how they are likely to interact with the world. There are many different instruments in this space (DiSC and Myers-Briggs being two of the most common) and nearly all are based on the theory of Neuro-linguistic Programming (NLP). These tools look at personality from a range of perspectives, e.g. introvert vs extrovert, detailoriented vs big-picture etc and determines where a person would (prefer to) sit on such spectra, i.e. we are all introverted or extroverted to some extent, few people are completely introverted or completely extroverted. One too that I find particularly practical is based around the following four personality styles:

· Action-oriented – people who focus on results, get things done and typically like to be leaders. They love a challenge and are practi-

cal but can get impatient with little time for chit-chat.

· Process-oriented – people who prefer structure, order, rules and a prescribed way of doing things. These people love facts and data but can find it hard to see new ways of doing things.

· People-oriented – relationships, teamwork and communication all matter to these people who strive for harmony. For these people, the journey is more important than the destination.

· Ideas-oriented – these people are fascinated by possibilities and concepts. They love to invent and experiment but can be easily distracted and usually not very well organised. As noted above, nearly all of us will have elements of the above to varying degrees, but typically there will be one or two styles which

will be more pronounced. It should also be clear that a particular style is more likely to find it difficult to engage with another style, for example Action-oriented people love to get straight to the point and may well get frustrated by other styles that prefer to get there by potentially slower routes. Similarly Process-oriented people may well get annoyed by Ideas-oriented people who, from their perspective, seem to wander off the point and may be seen as unrealistic.

However, if it were possible to get a sense of the predominant style(s) of another person, then the potential for you to influence that person would go up since you would know what sort of communication style is likely to have the best chance of success.

And so back to sales. It should be clear that you greatly enhance your prospect of making

a sale if you are able to converse using the preferred style of the other person. For example, it is well worth an Action-oriented salesperson taking the time to build the rapport and relationship with a People-oriented person before even discussing the prospective sale. Often there will be many clues that will betray an individual’s preferred style(s): the words that they use, the topics they like to discuss and even how their office is laid out (e.g. a Processoriented person will have a clean, neat and tidy desk whereas an Ideas-oriented person may well have an untidy desk with papers and notes scribbled everywhere). Taking the time to understand these may well pay off in a big way.

Ian Ash ACC, AInstIB Managing Director OrgMent Business Solutions - www.ombs.com.au

It should be clear that you greatly enhance your prospect of making a sale if you are able to converse using the preferred style of the other person, Ian Ash reports this week. Picture: PATRICK TOMASSO ON UNSPLASH

Students back food parcels

Students from Waverley Christian College mustered a generous donation of roughly 1100 individual items for the Berwick Food Pantry which was collected on Wednesday 27 March.

The initiative for the donation began when head of campus Mark Crnkovic expressed the aspiration for the college to contribute to the local Casey community.

Kathy Scott, campus student chaplain then reached out to Michelle Gould, head of the Berwick chapter for the Food Pantry to organise an in-school donation campaign.

“Michelle and her team tirelessly provide nourishment to numerous families in need, distributing essential food parcels throughout the region,” Ms Scott said.

“During our conversation, Michelle outlined the 12 most crucial items urgently required by the pantry.

“With this information in hand, our student leaders enthusiastically rallied their peers, initiating a spirited competition among year lev-

els to collect the items,” she said.

Of what was included in the donations were buckets of two-minute noodles, canned goods, frozen foods and pasta sauce jars among many

others.

The Berwick Food Pantry has been providing free material aid for local families in need since 2012, with donations from the public such as Waverley Christian College bolstering their capabilities.

On the day of the pick-up, the pantry organised a trailer to transport the collected goods, where photos for memorabilia and commemoration were taken of the students, teachers and representatives from the Food Pantry.

For Ms Scott, her peers and the students, the college “is committed to a recurring initiative of supporting various community care endeavours within the City of Casey each term”.

“Together, we aim to make a tangible difference in the lives of those facing hardship within our community,” Ms Scott said.

From left to right: Rebekah Matthew, Sarah Michael, Jonathan Wijaya, Dani Noy, Tirzah George, Abraham Cheng, Zara Nayagam, Liliana Zeng, Kiarah De Silva, Kathy Scott, Dylan Rodrigo, Mark Crnkovic, Shannara Fernando, Matthew Daniels and Michelle Gould. 397851

Students Zara Nayagam and Abraham Cheng next to some of the food that had been loaded on the trailer. 397851 Picture: GARY SISSONS Michelle Gould (left) from the Berwick Food Pantry thanked the students and teachers. 397851

WHAT’S ON

Lovers Lane Planting Day

Cannibal Creek Catchment Landcare are holding another community planting day at Lovers Lane, Garfield on Sunday 5 May from 9.30am to 2pm.

Help plant out 5000 indigenous tube stock to continue the revegetation of five acres, creating habitat for local endangered species such as Southern Brown Bandicoots.

Bring gloves, sturdy and waterproof footwear, sunscreen, hat, a water bottle and eye protection.

A coffee van will be available, while a morning tea and a sausage sizzle lunch will be provided for volunteers.

· For more information, contact Cannibal Creek Landcare Group on cannibalcreeklandcare@ gmail.com or phone Pam on 0407 876 935.

· RSVP essential for catering by Monday 29 April.

Harewood Heritage Day

Sunday 7 April from 10am to 3pm at 3300 South Gippsland Highway, Kooweerup, next to Tooradin Airfield.

Tours of Harewood House and environmental walks of grounds, local historical displays, historic cars and vintage machinery, period costumes, food stalls, live entertainment, traditional trades and craft demonstrations.

· $15 adult, $10 concession and $40 for two adults and two concessions.

· Proceeds to Kooweerup Regional Health Service.

· For more information, contact Bev Edwards on 0400 584 235 or harewoodcharityday@gmail. com

Learn to play ukulele

The ukulele is a very simple instrument to learn – perfect for the lazy potential musician. No need for the ability to read music, or practise endless scales or devour a whole heap of theory.

The U-Bute Uke Group is a relaxed and happy group which makes magical music together. Bring a love of music and a sense of fun.

Enrol in the ‘Introduction to Ukulele’ 9 week course at the Outlook Community Centre Pakenham, with the view to graduate to join the group. Course begins on Friday 26 April from 12.30pm to 2pm.

· Contact Outlook Community Centre on 5940 4728 for further details. Bookings essential.

Hills with Heart

Emerald photographer Tracey Sharp is running the Hills with Heart project, which is aiming to capture the stories of 50 local families with a exhibition at the Hills Hub later in the year.

· There is a $100 participating fee per family, which will be donated to the CFA or SES brigade of your choice.

· For more information, visit www.sharpmemories.com.au

Emerald Rotary Market

A community market in the heart of the Hills. Crafts, produce, collectables, treasures, hot food, fresh coffee, ice cream and so much more will be available. The market will be located behind the shops off Kilvington Drive and opposite the primary school on the oval on Heroes Avenue.

· For more information, view the website or contact 0408 769 491.

Open mic for artists

Cardinia Creative Community is a space for animators, artists, musicians, writers, poets, comedians, actors, dreamers, visionaries, danc-

Yakkerboo Festival

Kicking off on Saturday 20 April, with a carnival at amusement ride prices. The event will also feature an open mic competition and a spectacular firework display to close out the evening.

On Sunday 21 April, the family festival gets into full swing, commencing with the parade at 10am. From 11am to 4pm there will be unlimited rides for all ages, with the purchase of a $15 wrist band, as well as a line up of local talent to entertain on stage.

· 20 and 21 April

ers, storytellers and creators to come together to support one another to make dreams come true.

· The group meets on the last Friday of the month from 7pm to 9pm, at the Officer Food Truck Park, 474 Princes Hwy, Officer.

· For more information, visit www.facebook. com/groups/870966037793058

Probus Club of Pakenham East

The Probus Club of Pakenham East is encouraging new members to join. Meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month at the Cardinia Club, commencing at 10am.

A short meeting is followed by morning tea and the opportunity to get to know members prior to the introduction of the guest speaker.

Various activities are held throughout the month.

· For more information, phone president Gary on 0428 255 178 or contact secretary Dorothy on probuspakenhameast@gmail.com

Housing Support and Advice

Are you experiencing homelessness? At risk of having no safe place to live? Living in low-cost accommodation with no support?

Visit the Pakenham Library and have a chat with a support worker to discuss available options

and resources.

· Every Wednesday between 2pm to 4pm. Bookings are not required. If you require more information, please phone Pakenham Library on 5940 6200.

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 great afternoon teas, day/ short and long trips away via (coach/flights), Weekly Morning Coffee Club, Monthly Saturday Country Pub Lunches, Monthly Evening Dineouts, Weekly Table Tennis Club, Walking Groups, Seasonal Daytime Musical Theatre Outings, and more! We welcome all you gentlemen out there with time on your hands! Ladies, come along, this is your time to meet like minded people and make those new friends.

· Come along and get to know the club by visiting on a Thursday at 2pm at Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House or join us on a Wednesday at 10am for a Coffee at Little Sparrow Fountain Gate.

· For more information, contact Enquiry Officer Gloria 0468 363 616.

Berwick Springs VIEW Club

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

The club currently supports seven students of varying ages with their education expenses and are about to take on an eighth student. The club meets on the first Monday of each month in the Berwick Springs Hotel function room from 11.30am, where members enjoy a lunch and then host a guest speaker. 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

Yakkerboo Festival Committee member Meagan Zarr and Keeper of Mr Yakkerboo Graeme Moore with Mr Yakkerboo himself at last year’s festival. 331595 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Locals impress in Coates

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Gippsland Power opened its 2024 Coates Talent League campaign with a win over Dandenong on Good Friday at Belvedere Reserve, winning 16.13 109 to 14.9 93 in a high-tempo, free-flowing day of football.

The visitors had a narrow lead for most of the day in a quick and hot game of footy, but players from both teams showcased their weapons.

In his first game for the season, Stingray Noah Mraz started excellently, winning several important contests in defensive 50 to prevent the visitors getting off to the hot start that they threatened to.

The Narre North Foxes junior and AFL Academy representative got his hands to plenty of aerial contests in defensive 50 and finished with 24 disposals in a strong start to the season.

FellowdefenderBenHopkinswasalsostrong from the first bounce, with his six first-quarter intercept marks helping limit Gippsland’s lead to only seven points at the first break.

Following a 27-disposal game against Geelong Falcons last week, the teenager, also North MelbourneVFL contracted, played with a blend of competitiveness, nous and dash to again finish with a team-high 26 touches.

The‘Rays kicked four goals in the seven minutes either side of quarter-time to briefly hit the lead as Vic Country aspirant Harry Doughton showcased his finishing ability in a second consecutive pleasing outing where he was given midfield minutes.

Thereafter, Gippsland was able to wrestle back momentum for the most part, with hardworking midfielder Tom Hanily a pillar through the four quarters for Gippsland.

Hanily enhanced his midseason draft credentials with 32 disposals, seven tackles and a goal.

“I thought Tom was really good – his ability to stay strong over the contest all throughout the game was excellent,” Power coach Rhett McLennan said.

“He linked in well and shared the footy well.”

Gippsland got out to a 12-point halftime lead before Berwick junior and Haileybury College student Tairon Ah-Mu imposed himself on

the contest in the second half.

The 2023 under-16sVic Country representative kicked three goals, including the first of the second half.

At 198cm, Ah-Mu used his size well in ruck contests and took five marks, alongside nine hit-outs.

StarVic Country duo Xavier Lindsay andWillem Duursma helped Gippsland pulled away from the Stingrays late in the third quarter, the

Warriors are ready to roll

By Jonty Ralphsmith

The Pakenham Warriors have added depth and class to their women’s unit for the 2024 season.

After having a young roster in 2023, the Warriors have added import Erica Meyer and former NBL1 player Bree Whatman.

Their addition, alongside the valuable experience that the likes of Hayley Letts and Chloe Zielinski gained last season, has increased coach Rob Dielemans’ belief in what they can achieve this season.

“The expectation this year is we need to be making finals,” Dielemans said.

“We understand we have a significantly better group and deeper group than last year.

“Our ability to score with the ball should be significantly better.

“We’ll be able to defend with different looks and we’ve spent a lot of time on defensive half-court structures during the preseason to make people better at defending one-on-one and in group situations.

“The way the game plans and structures have come together – girls are fitting in really well with it and they have a grasp of the major concepts at this point.”

The experience of Whatman is set to shine through with the coach lauding her ability to bring her teammates together.

“She adds class, finishing, leadership, shooting and scoring ability that sometimes you sit there and go ‘this is good fun to watch’,” Dielemans said.

“Her ability to read the way things are being defended, particularly when it is around her, is phenomenal to be fair.”

Fellow recruits Meyer and Youth League graduate Gemma Hancock both add important size to the team, measuring 6’3” and 6’4” respectively, set to complement the class of returning import Haille Nickerson.

“(Meyer) will be a great defensive presence around the rim for us and she gives us an interior presence, not just guarding the basket and changing shots but at the other end, she’s a legitimate post target to look at.

“It makes us a very different looking team in the way we play.

“Whilst having some scoring ability she is also a great passer out of the post as well, so there will be opportunity for inside-outside play for the guards.”

The women’s season kicks off on Sunday at Cardinia Life against Hume at 1pm as part of a double-header with the men’s game.

“Willem’s always doing the work and you can see his ability to run and understand how much space (there is) and when he can get the football is very difficult to teach and he’s got a fantastic knack for turning up in the right place in the right time.”

With the Power leading by 17, there was a premium on the first goal of the last stanza, with Stingray Noah Hibbins-Hargreaves standing up and delivering.

The highly-regarded bottom-aged player took a crunching one-on-one mark and calmly finished a difficult set shot two minutes into the quarter.

He did similarly 12 minutes later as the margin again blew out, with the Vic Country player finishing with three goals from 10 disposals in a promising display.

Dandenong’s defence, which contained local lads Kane Hurst (Berwick) and Tahj De La Rue (Pakenham), held up well for the last 15 minutes to resist several Gippsland forward forays.

The margin, ultimately, proved too big to overcome and the weight of the Power’s entries eventually saw them kick a late sealer.

The Power played 10 debutantes in the season-opener with McLennan buoyed by their signs.

“I thought they all played their roles really well,” McLennan said.

“We had two brand new rucks who worked their way into the game and their ability to compete and help on the ground was excellent and our forwards looked really exciting, particularly the bottom-aged guys who looked to be creative, which was exactly what we want.”

pair finishing with 51 disposals and three goals between them as they each showcased their class.

“(Lindsay’s) last half I thought was fantastic,” McLennan said.

“I thought the way he moved and got from contest to contest and used the footy with the class we know he’s got, was a real contributing factor to us keeping Dandenong at arm’s distance throughout the day.

Other locals in action included Fountain Gate junior Coren Giliam, who was flashy and kicked two goals, Devon Meadows’ Toby Sinnema, Beaconsfield’s Jordan Doherty, Officer debutant Brodie Snooks and Warragul Industrials’ Alixzander Tauru.

Having played strong footy across the first fortnight, the Stingrays will be looking to rectify a 0-2 record against GWV, while Gippsland will have winning form behind them when it faces Bendigo.

Depth critical for Warriors

By Jonty Ralphsmith

The Pakenham Warriors men’s season is set to get underway on Sunday with the team again putting forward a strong roster in 2024.

Following promotion from Division 1 last year, a season the Warriors won 13 games in the home-and-away season, Pakenham has added import Malik Colvin-Seldon.

The athletic 6’8” entertainer is set to require significant attention from opponents this year and while his class will change games throughout the year, it’s also set to free up other players.

Having competed strongly in practice matches against NBL1 sides, coach Rob Roberts is confident in the talent of his side, with Cody Frederickson returning from college and Cal McNiff also set to play a significant part.

“I think we can really go eight deep without changing much on the court so that will be a big benefit to us,” Roberts said.

“We’ve got guys sitting on the bench who could go to another state championships side and start, comfortably.

“We are pretty big height-wise and physically on court so teams will have trouble (against us) when it comes to that big spot as well.”

While maintaining their key players, a focus of preseason has been ensuring the Warriors’ synergy is there from round one, given the additions.

“We’ve talked about it at our practice matches and scrimmages and we can see already that the things we weren’t happy with at the start have already changed and we’re confident with what we’ve built it to,” Roberts said.

“That’s the benefit of having the extra time (with the championship competition starting later), I think our defensive structure is what will help us, we’ll stop teams from being able to put high scores on us as well as adding scoring power through Cody (Frederickson).”

The men’s season gets underway this Sunday, 3pm at Cardinia Life as part of a double header with the women’s game.

Rob Roberts is confident for the season ahead. 296143

Picture: ROB CAREW

Hayley Letts is among the young talent that got exposure last season. 333282

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

It was a tight tussle between Dandenong and Gippsland. 398645

Picture: BLACK FOOT PHOTOGRAPHY

Kohut senior scores ace

Steve Kohut senior ensured the 2024 Easter four-round Cup was one to remember, nailing a hole-in-one on the 16th hole during Saturday’ second round.

The brilliant day continued for the Kohut family with Steve Kohut junior winning the A Grade on countback.

Here’s how the rest of the week played out. GARFIELD GOLF

Yet another great week weather wise for anything outdoors with some much needed rain due to arrive Monday into Tuesday.

The Easter four-round Cup kicked off on Good Friday with a field of 85 lining up.

Clint Williams was the star of the day as he parred the course getting the A Grade win with a great round of 40 points playing off his low mark of just four.

Peter Marquis returned to the winners list by scoring a count back win for the B Grade event from Ben Barrett with a round of 39 points.

A final count back score of 35 points was required to finish in the money.

Matt Skinner provided the other highlight of the day by scoring an eagle two on the 15TH hole.

OnThursday, a good size field of 84 presented for a game of single par with a final round of square required to finish in the money.

Kevan McMillan broke a run of outs to get the A Grade win by a count back from Ray James with a round of plus three.

However it was James who scored the day’s highlight with a great eagle two on the par four second hole.

Deirdre Pilkington got one up for the ladies by winning the B Grade event with a score of plus two.

On Saturday, a great field of 128 turned out for the second round of the Easter Cup with Steve Kohut snr providing the week’s highlight with a hole in one on the 16TH, to go with his runner-up place to Darren Manley with a round of 42 points.

Manley scored an excellent round of 44 points.

Steve Kohut jnr made it a great day for the family by scoring the A Grade win with a final count back score from Peter McNeish with a total of 38 points.

Trevor Thompson won the B Grade event with a signed for card of 41 points whilst the C Grade event was a three-way countback, with Peter Kelly coming out on top with a score of 40 points.

A final score of 34 points was required to go down the line and was achieved by a total of 34 players.

Shane Male, showing some good recent form, scored 36 points playing off his mark of three.

Whilst a total of seven A Grade golfers played or bettered their handicap for the day, including Chris Davies, Steely Mateariki and Leon Mateariki.

Brenton Hollingworh is a golfer enjoying a hot run of success, having won last Sunday’s event with a great winning score of 44 points.

The veteran’s tour travelled to Trafalgar on 25 March with a field of 105 presenting for a

game of single Stableford.

Our very own John Scale had a great day out by finishing runners up for the A Graders with a handicap beating round of 39 points.

A good day was had by all that attended although it was played in very cold conditions on a course in great condition all followed up with an excellent meal to complete proceedings.

The next veteran’s event is at Traralgon on the 22 April.

There is a regional challenge, East, West & South Gippy at Meeniyan on 15 April via a shotgun start, with five tee times set aside for Garfield Members.

For all enquiries contact John Scale.

Next Saturday is the April Monthly Medal.

RESULTS

· WGVA Veterans/Trafalgar 25 March/Single Stableford/Field of 105

A Grade: Robert Piner (Drouin) 39, C/B, second John Scale (Garfield) 39.

B Grade: David Rash (Morwell) 38, second Royce Thompson (Lang Lang) 37.

C Grade: Laurie Snowball (Trafalgar) 40, second Graeme Higgins (Warragul) 37.

Down the lines went down to and including 32 points (34).

Nearest the pins went to 2nd Alan Bogan, 5th Tim Tulloch, 11th Trevor Male, 13th Greg Donoghue, 15th John Curtain.

· Sunday/Single Stableford/Field of 36

Winner: Brenton Hollingworth (17) 44, second David Kitchen (21) 39, third Steely Mateariki (8) 38 C/B.

Down the lines went down to and including

37 points (6).

Nearest the pins went to 8th Graeme Coates, 9th & 11th David Manning, 13th David Kitchen, 16th Darren McKerrow.

· Monday/Single Stableford/Field of 54

A Grade: Andy Armanasco (16) 36, second Gavin De Jager (22) 35 C/B.

B Grade: Don Macdonald (29) 39 C/B, second Daniel Phillips (24) 39.

Down the lines went down to and including count back scores of 33 points (10).

Nearest the pins went to 4th Trevor Guille, 8th KarliVan Der Horst, 9th Jim Accettura, 11th Frank Groen, 13th Barry Hay, 16th Heath Barclay.

· Tuesday /Ladies/Single Stableford/Field of 15

Winner: Deanna Hargreaves (30) 45, second Jill Gay (21) 41, third Karli Van Der Horst (17) 40.

Nearest the pins went to 4th Bernie Clark, 8th Deanna Hargreaves, 11th Nola Kerslake.

· Thursday/Single par/Field of 84

A Grade: Kevan McMillan (10) plus 3 C/B, second Ray James (5) plus 3, thirdTom Fowler (22) plus 2.

B Grade: Deirdre Pilkington (31) plus 2, second Alex Green (27) SQR C/B, third Geoff Clingin (27) SQR C/B.

Down the lines went down to scores of SQR (10). Eagle: 2nd Ray James.

Nearest the pins went to 4th Tom Fowler, 8th Michael Carrigan, 9thTrevor Franklin, 11th Harry Elyasie, 13th Nick Hoghton, 16th Trevor Male.

· Good Friday/Single Stableford/Field of 85

A Grade: Clint Williams (4) 40, second David

Top three breaking away in Darts league

By Marcus Uhe

A pair of thrashings from Predators and Cheers in round six of the South West Gippsland Dart League sent an ominous message to the remainder of the competition about the strength at the top of the table.

Billed as the match of the round, pitting the undefeated Predators against a team in fourth on a three-game win streak, Predators comfortably took care of business with a 12-3 win over Gembrook.

Steve P went ton-less, but strong performances from Jordan and Nathan covered his shortcomings, such is the strength of the team.

Likewise, a spread of contributions from Cheers saw them exterminate Mud Rats 13-2. Ant threw seven tons and Shane three,

joining Liam in the top five of the tons count.

Snipers, meanwhile, completed just the second 15-0 sweep of the young season in a frightening display, showing no mercy against the winless Hoodies.

Dean steered the ship for Snipers with six tons, to reclaim his spot at the top of the tons leaderboard.

Snipers, Cheers and Predators not only occupy the top three ladder positions, but the top seven places on the tons leaderboard, such has been their collective dominance this season.

The undefeated streak of one side will come to an end this week, however, when Snipers and Cheers go head-to-head.

Elsewhere, Just Social has recovered from a rare losing streak, bouncing back with an

11-4 win over Generals.

26ers and Fore played out a thriller, while Dart Vaders and Railway also scored victories.

Results R6: 26ers 8 v Fore 7, Cheers 13 v Mud Rats 2, Predators 12 v Gembrook 3, Dart Vaders 13 v Bullseyes 2, Snipers 15 v Hoodies 0, Just Social 11 v Generals 4, Railway 10 v Dart Attack 5.

Ladder: Snipers 24, Predators 24, Cheers 24, Gembrook 16, Dart Vaders 16, Mud Rats 16, Just Social 12, 26ers 12, Fore 8, Generals 8, Railway 8, Hoodies 0, Dart Attack 0, Bullseyes 0.

Fixture R7: Hoodies (12) v Bullseyes (14), Dart Vaders (5) v Gembrook (4), Snipers (1) v Cheers (3), Predators (2) v Generals (10), Mud Rats (6) v Fore (9), Just Social (7) v Railway (11), 26ers (8) v Dart Attack (13).

Manning (7) 39, third Tim Cornell (9) 37 C/B.

B Grade: Peter Marquis (18) 39 C/B, second Ben Barrett (25) 39 C/B, third Steve Bloomfield (20) 39.

Down the lines went down to count back scores of 35 points (14). Eagle: 15th Matt Skinner.

Nearest the pins went to 4th Phil Barling, 8th David Manning, 9th Tim Cornell, 11th Martin Atkins, 13th Gary Bassett, 16th Tony Mafodda.

· Saturday/Single Stableford/Field of 128

A Grade: Steve Kohut jnr (7) 38 C/B, second Peter McNeish (7) 38, third Chris Davies (8) 37.

B Grade: Trevor Thompson (12) 41, second Peter Glasscock (12) 38 C/B, third John Blair (13) 38.

C Grade: Peter Kelly (19) 40 C/B, second Joe Tonso (16) 40 C/B, third Hayden Newnham (17) 40 C/B.

D Grade: Darren Manley (24) 44 second Steve Kohut snr (23) 42 C/B, third Rod Norton (26) 42.

Down the lines went down to count back scores of 34 points (33).

Nearest the pins went to 4th Hayden Newnham, 8th Tym Davey, 9th Brenton Hollingworth, 11th Bob Collins, 13th Chris Kondarios, 16th Hole-in-one: Steve Kohut snr.

· Saturday/Ladies/Single Stableford

Winner: Kerrie Davey (10) 34 C/B.

Nearest the pins went to 4th & 8th Kerrie Davey, 16th Amanda McLure.

-Terry Webster

ClintWilliamswontheAGraderoundonFridayafterparringthecourseatGarfield. 330461

Picture:STEWARTCHAMBERS

Can You Help Save Local Jobs in the South-Eastern Region?

Dear Friends,

We urgently need your help to halt the closure of a vital transport link which is threatening to destroy manufacturing in the south east, impacting thousands of local jobs.

The Level Crossing Removal Program (LXRP) is going to close Progress St in Dandenong South so the government can tick-a-box and say they have removed another level crossing.

The level crossing in Progress Street will not be replaced with a road-over-rail or road-under-rail alternative but will be completely closed to through-traffic cutting off a critical link to the Princes Highway and the Monash Freeway.

We need to be doing everything we can to support major industries in our south-eastern region who provide thousands of local jobs and create the training opportunities for our young people to be future-ready.

We need your help to halt the closure of Progress St.

Scan the QR code below to sign our online community petition so we can show the Allan Labor government the people of Berwick, Cranbourne, Dandenong and Pakenham are prepared to stand up and protect our local businesses.

If you are concerned about other road or rail projects in your neighbourhood, contact my office on 9794 7667 and let’s work together for a better future.

Yours sincerely

Ann-Marie Hermans MP