News - Berwick Star News - 18th April 2024

Treasures from the trees

Berwick woodworker John McMahon can turn a variety of timbers into things of beauty.

The winner of the City of Casey’s Lindsay King Art Award 2024 has made a vase made from Japanese weeping cherries, a delicately shaped mess mate pot with kaleidoscopic butterfly hollows, and an array of wood gadgets for children.

It’s a passion that he’s enjoyed for more than 25 years.

Staying overnight at the store for weeks at time, Harry has been hard at work doing everything he can to protect the business he has worked so hard to establish over the last 15 years.

“I’ve been staying overnight at the store for a week at a time, and then I’ll go home for a couple of days,” he said.

“But I wasn’t there when the last break in happened on Sunday because I had decided to go home that weekend. When I got the call, I just couldn’t believe it.

“After break in number four, we started making plans to move.

“It means I have to reestablish the business, which comes at a great cost, but that’s what I was forced to do. I’ve got to keep the business open to keep my staff employed.

“Because I’m locked into a lease, it’s been difficult, but the lease is coming to an end, so we’re hoping to be in the new location by the end of May.

“I hate to shut up shop in Berwick, because it’s a beautiful place to work, but to have this going on puts a black mark on my time here.

“And I’m sure my customers feel concerned and even unsafe when they come into my shop and see broken glass everywhere, so I can’t wait to move. I really can’t.”

Nestled in Loveridge Walk, just off High Street, Harry’s is one of many local businesses that are suffering from a lack of security cameras in the area.

And the shops of Blackburne Square appear to be part of a particularly troubling hot spot, with break-ins plaguing a variety of businesses, including Alainn Mae, who had an attempt late in March, and Billy Lidz, who had to deal with two attempted breaks in through the back door.

While her perpetrators haven’t been able to get in, Billy Lidz owner Kellie stresses that “there is still a mental and financial toll”.

“I’ve had to have the back door resecured a number of times, once out of pocket,” she said.

“And it’s the stress of waiting up all night for the alarm to go off. It’s definitely not something that you wish for for your business.

“I don’t have any security cameras in store, but I’ve been here for 15 years and I’ve never had an issue until now.

“In the last month I’ve had two attempts a week apart.”

Just next door to Billy Lidz, the staff at Stylemaker & Co Hair Salon have also experienced their fair share of troubling break-ins, with three in less than two years.

While it doesn’t deter “loyal” clients, “when it does happen, the first half of the day is knocked out to deal with everything”, salon owner Zana said.

“It’s extra time and stress that a small business should not have to go through,” she added.

“And it affects our insurance as well.

“I’ve now installed cameras myself, and an alarm system which I didn’t have before because I didn’t think it would be as bad as it is.

“It’s disappointing and it’s stressful and it’s about time for someone to do something about it.” Continued page 15

John McMahon. 399597 Picture: ROB CAREW

Story page 14

Anzac Day 2024

There will be seven services held throughout the City of Casey this April to commemorate Anzac Day. For more information, please visit our website.

Tuesday 23 April

Endeavour Hills

11.00 am: Endeavour Hills War Memorial, Heatherton Road, Endeavour Hills

Thursday 25 April

Berwick

10.40 am: Berwick Cenotaph, High Street, Berwick

Cranbourne

6.00 am, Cenotaph Area, High Street, Cranbourne

Cranbourne

10.40 am: Cenotaph Area, High Street, Cranbourne

Applications open for Community Meals Subsidy Program

Group social meals greatly benefit the community by creating opportunities to connect and celebrate culture and diversity.

Applications are now open for our Community Meals Subsidy Program. The program provides funding to local community groups to provide healthy and nutritious meals at their centre for Casey’s vulnerable or isolated older residents.

To assist community groups with completing the online form, a drop-in session will be held on Tuesday 7 May between 9.30 am and 4.30 pm in the Boon Wurrung and Wurundjeri rooms at Bunjil Place.

Applications close on Friday 31 May.

To find out more about the drop-in session, application process and to submit an application, search ‘meals subsidy program’ on our website, email mealservices@casey.vic.gov.au or contact 9705 5444.

Hampton Park

6.00 am: ANZAC Memorial, Arthur Wren Hall, 16-20 Stuart Avenue, Hampton Park

Narre Warren

6.00 am: Bunjil Place, 2 Patrick Northeast Drive, Narre Warren

Pearcedale

6.00 am: Pearcedale Public Hall, 45 Pearcedale Road, Pearcedale

Expressions of Interest for our Community Leadership Program close at 5.00 pm on Friday 19 April.

This free program is for new, emerging and existing community leaders aged 18 years and over who want to enhance their leadership skills, create new networks and learn more about local government.

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.

Football fun for everyone

Our Women’s Football and Fitness Program is perfect for those who are new to the sport.

This free six week program will be held from 6.00 pm to 7.00 pm on Wednesdays from 15 May until 19 June at the Melbourne Football Club Indoor Training Facility at Casey Fields in Cranbourne East.

Led by friendly female coaches, each session will help participants to improve their fitness, develop their football skills, and learn a bit about how the game works. Plus, you’ll be able to find out how you can continue to have fun with footy after the program has ended.

Participants are also welcome to bring their children to each session as childminders will be on site and ready to assist.

To register your interest, please scan the QR code.

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

• Berwick Village Activity Centre: help us shape the future of Berwick Village and provide feedback on the current structure plan which requires updating.

• Safe Around Schools program: complete the survey to tell us what traffic safety concerns you have around Narre Warren South P-12 College.

• Community Service Organisations Growth and Attraction Framework: we are seeking your feedback on the draft Framework.

• Affordable and alternative housing for residents aged 55 years and over: complete the online survey to help shape our future planning and advocacy for affordable housing choices in Casey.

• Max Pawsey Reserve Master Plan: we are seeking feedback on the changes and updates to the Master Plan.

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

Preserving park’s history

By Ethan Benedicto

The Friends of Wilson Botanic Park will be turning a new leaf on Wednesday 24 April, when the community group’s members will gather at the park’s visitor centre for a day of camaraderie and recounting past events.

The high tea event will be held from 1pm to 4pm, where food and beverages will be accompanied by conversation about the group’s and park’s history as the first step of the Friends’ history project.

Paula Taylor, who has been a member of the Friends for over 18 years said that the new project is dedicated to the foundation of the park and serves as a reminder of its roots and how it came to be.

In a more technical sense, another reason for the project was the eventual transition of park duties to Casey Council; where the Friends were once the keepers of the park, they now serve as the chronicle of its experiences and journey.

For Ms Taylor, the change is a big one, considering that “the Friends had a lot of autonomy and responsibility before,” but are “very supportive of the council”.

“This all started because the council went paperless and we had to take all of our records away from here and get them sorted.

“Then we had this idea when we were sorting out all our materials, we decided that we were turning it into a historical project; one of the things we thought we should do was some oral histories.

“We thought that having a little get-together would give people the opportunity to talk formally about their memories,” she said.

While the Friends have hosted countless events in the past, such as a Valentine’s Day picnic and fashion events at the park, the high tea also serves as the group’s first of many new activities involved in their new phase.

Caroline Humphreys, a local resident who has been part of the Friends for the last two years said that the idea for the high tea “stemmed from the work that [the Friends] have been doing”.

“Gathering the history and really trying to build oral history into what is a lot of materials that have been maintained over the years.

“It’s filling in a lot of those gaps but also being aware that we’re in a time of transition, a lot of people who were originally part of the Friends are getting older.

“It’s really important for us to be able to understand the history and what has led to the

park being what it is,” Ms Humphreys said.

In consideration of their new role and relationship with the council, Ms Taylor said “We have a lot more communication in terms of understanding and we give advice too.

“We do a lot of work towards applying for grants, we also work with the staff in the park for certain activities like mapping all the plants, and we conduct guided tours of the park as volunteers,” she said.

Lex Nieboer, a former member who had been with the Friends for over 30 years recalled the beginning of the group in 1992 and expressed the importance of keeping those memories alive for not just future members,

but for park-goers as well.

“When we started it was only myself and two labourers and my sister and a few others got together and did a video of the park and just tried to get as many of the locals involved in it, so that worked out really well.

“The locals were really for it, they donated thousands for the front gates, the rotundas and such, the amphitheatre and all that; they were all sponsored by families.

“With the local papers, we had two or three and they were all supportive of it too; we tried to get sponsorship for the trees that we planted and the garden was sponsored as well,” Mr Nieboer said.

No conviction expected for Monash Health

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Monash Health has accepted a non-conviction sentence indication over the suicide of a patient at Casey Hospital, Berwick in 2015.

The health service sought the indication in the Victorian County Court for a WorkSafe charge of failing to ensure persons were not exposed to risk.

On 15 April, judge Gerard Mullaly indicated that if the health service pleaded guilty it would be fined no more than $160,000 and without conviction.

The mental-health patient had been found unresponsive in a visitors toilet which had a door handle previously assessed as a suicide risk, Judge Mullaly noted.

Staff were instructed to check the private toilet every 15 minutes to ensure it was left locked and not accessed by patients.

A hospital-wide audit identified ligature points on door handles, leading to them being replaced throughout the hospital’s public areas.

The handle hadn’t been replaced in the visitors toilet due to concerns that the access wouldn’t meet disability-access requirements, a prosecutor told the court.

It was replaced soon after the patient’s death.

Judge Mullaly noted the patient had been in Casey for several months on a temporary treatment order and then as a

voluntary patient.

She had made 11 known suicide attempts. And in the days leading up to the event, she was anxious about her impending discharge from hospital.

Prosecutors argued in favour of a conviction due to the seriousness of the risk, the ease of remedying the risk, Monash Health being put on notice by the audit and the vulnerability of patients in its care.

Judge Mullaly said it was “highly relevant” that Monash Health had no prior workplace safety convictions given its long history operating in a “high-risk environment”.

For that reason, it was entitled to a “merciful sentence” especially given its contributions to the community in the state, nationally and internationally.

Also in mitigation was the case’s nine-year delay.

If the hospital pleaded guilty, it would also indicate Monash Health took responsibility for the incident.

Judge Mullaly considered the “compelling and heartfelt” testimonies from the “much loved” patient’s family.

“Emotions remain raw and the toll on them considerable”.

If guilty, Monash Health had a high moral culpability – being acutely aware of the patient’s vulnerability, Judge Mullaly said.

However the gravity of the breach would be still on the “lower end of the scale” because there was “little true disregard for safety”.

It was unfortunate and should not have occurred but its departure from its duty of care was not “gross” nor a “glaring disregard” from the safety of others, the judge said.

He found the “clunky” system of monitoring the toilet was “not one that satisfactorily dealt with the risks”.

The consequences – if the risks weren’t eliminated - were likely to be “catastrophic”.

Ahead of sentencing, the matter is scheduled for a plea hearing at the County Court on 6 May.

While they were previously a “club of gardeners” according to Ms Taylor, the group is now looking towards keeping the history and spirit of the Friends alive.

Though still in the works, a nursery is planned for the park, where a sale of fauna grown on park grounds will be held twice per year.

The upcoming high tea will be part of this initiative, and while the members are unsure if it is going to be an annual event, they guarantee that the Friends’ presence will still be felt not just throughout the park, but in the community as well.

Coward punch allegation

Police are investigating after a Hampton Park Redbacks player was allegedly coward-punched from behind on Saturday 13 April at Robert Booth Reserve.

While waiting on the sidelines during their reserve-grade game against the Doveton Doves, a spectator recording showed a man in a black hoodie hitting a player from behind, dropping him to the ground.

The hooded man could be seen making his way through the gap in the fence, then moving behind the player where his fist connected with the victim on the right side of the face.

The 28-year-old victim fell to the ground, clutching his head while fellow players and bystanders stood in shock and came to his aid.

The man suffered a facial injury and was taken to hospital with non-lifethreatening injuries.

Victoria Police were contacted and said the incident was currently undergoing investigation.

Monash Health is facing a workplace safety charge after a patient’s death at Casey Hospital. 199744

Members of the Friends of Wilson Botanic Park, from left, Caroline Humphreys, Paula Taylor and Lex Nieboer. Picture: ETHAN BENEDICTO

Art is food for the soul

By Ethan Benedicto

Visions of seascapes, buildings, mountain ranges and the beauty of still life covered the Nossal High School auditorium during Provenance Artists Inc.’s 25th annual art exhibition.

Dedicated to their late founder and artist, Calvin Bell, submissions from seasoned artists and students alike showcased the talent of the local community, with committee member Debra Polman saying that it was exactly what Calvin Bell envisioned.

For Ms Polman and the committee, the exhibition is and has always been“just something we want to do”.

“I think it’s a good idea for local people to get involved in art because you have to go to inner Melbourne to see art like this.

“This is the second biggest in the southeastern suburbs, so we just like to contribute to get artists to paint,” she said.

A maze of canvases, the exhibition which was held from Friday 12 April to Sunday 14 April featured pieces of varied themes and sizes with some select pieces winning the first prize in their respective categories, all delivering the message of art is food for the soul.

With her pieces also displayed alongside many others, Ms Polman said “we don’t make money, we just get enough to make the next show, we’re all about getting the artists to display their works more than anything”.

Theexhibitionitselfwasroughlyfivemonths’ worth of outreach and organising, liaising with the appropriate stakeholders such as Nossal High School and the artists themselves to deliver an experience in which Provenance hoped for everyone to be involved.

Fellow committee member Kiran Singh said, “we put all of our emotions into the work, our soul is in it”.

“If we’re not happy with it, we have to correct it and it never gets shown; we feel bad ourselves and it’s not right so we do it again because the art speaks to us.

“When we work, we don’t know the time, I spend seven to nine hours with just a sip of coffee because you are totally lost in what you’re doing, and it’s a beautiful feeling,” Mr Singh said. The categories and themes for each exhibition change every year, as do the judges with Glenn Hoyle, a renowned realism painter being one of the 25th exhibition’s judges.

However, his position doesn’t prevent him from presenting his artwork, with Ms Polman adamant on Provenance’s invitation for everyone and all forms of art to be presented at their gallery.With art being subjective, both Mr Singh and Ms Polman understand that different people may put a different value on certain pieces.

Nevertheless, it is those interpretations that bring about the beauty of art, with Ms Polman saying that “it’s in the intricacies”.

“Like the leaf one I did, people see that and

Federal MP reflects on ‘priceless’ replica

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

It’s said imitation is the highest form of flattery. A grateful family obviously thought much of Bruce MP Julian Hill in gifting him a ‘minime’ statuette of himself on a throne.

As federal MPs are required to do, Hill declared the gift on the Parliamentary register of members’ interests this month, valuing the piece as “priceless”.

“Statue of me received from a constituent Mr Haidary. 56cm high. Seated on a 75cm high throne. Made in Iran,” Hill described it on the register.

Mysteriously, under the throne is a depicted feather duster with a wrapped bundle of white fabric nearby.

Hill told Star News that “it was a lovely albeit surprising gesture by a wonderful local family who my office has helped enormously”.

“My staff did say ‘what’s wrong with flowers and chocolate’.

“But obviously now if I’m out of the office and they miss me then they can commune with my statue.”

According to the register guidelines, MPs

must declare gifts valued at $750 or more from official sources – that is from an Australian or foreign government office or office-holder.

For non-official sources like Mr Haidary, gifts of $300 or more in value must be declared. Close family and personal friends are exempt.

“I checked the rules and I do need to declare it,” Hill told Sky News.

“I concluded it was made by an artist and shipped from overseas, it probably exceeded the $300 value – but how could I value it? So I valued it as priceless.”

It’s not Hill’s first unsolicited gift from a constituent.

Last year he declared two suits, two white shirts and a “few bags of nuts and dried figs” of “unknown” value from “Mr Hussaini”.

“It became impossible to refuse without causing offence,” Hill wrote on the interests register.

“Mr Hussaini has been requested and has agreed to not bring gifts in the future.”

MP Julian Hill has been gifted a mini-me statuette from a grateful

they see the value because there’s a lot of work put I it. Even the smaller paintings, as long as it’s pleasing to their eye they see the value of it.

“Other people don’t, they can go to Fountain Gate and pick a print because they’re happy with the price, but this is art that can be kept forever,” she said.

With the exhibition finalised, the Provenance committee are looking to gather for a debrief in the coming weeks, with the annual exhibition set to carry onto the coming years.

Asbestos in garden bed

Small pieces of asbestos have been found in Minihans Reserve in Cranbourne.

The City of Casey reported to the EPA that small pieces of bonded asbestoscontaining material had been discovered in a mulched garden bed at Minihans Reserve in Cranbourne, following a proactive inspection program that has so far assessed 30 locations.

The small pieces of asbestos discovered were in a stable, low-risk form, however, the council stated that it was taking this very seriously.

The area would remain closed until council teams had completed a full assessment of the site and the council stated that it was confident at this stage there was no risk to the community.

EPA officers attended the site on Tuesday 16 April.

local family.

Art teacher and Provenance Committee member Deborah Polman received a Highly Commended award for Bush Christmas. 399710 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS Kiran Singh with his artwork in the multicultural category, showcasing a focus on his interpretations of Indian culture. 399710

‘Starry Night Walk’ by local student Lucia Sun, who had worked on the piece for over a month. 399710

Rates, waste charges up

By Violet Li

Casey ratepayers will be subject to an average of 2.75 per cent rate increase and 5.5 per cent waste service charge increase in the next financial year, a draft budget reveals.

Casey Council adopted its draft budget report for the 2024-25 financial year at its April meeting.

The average general rate and the municipal charge will increase by 2.75 per cent in line with the rate cap set by the State Government, which signifies a drop from last year’s 3.5 per cent.

Council stated that it would continue to commit to support the community through its Hardship Policy and other relief options, including suspension of late payment interests, arrangements to pay, and deferment of legal action for ratepayers experiencing financial stress.

Casey’s waste management costs are projected to be $59.5 million, a 5.5 per cent increase on the forecast level for the last financial year. Council stated that a number of items affected the waste service charge, including population growth, consumer price index increase, the level of the landfill levy, and contractual arrangements for the transfer and processing of waste.

The draft budget outlines a total revenue of $658 million and an expenditure of $460 million, with an underlying operating surplus of $10.5 million.

Rates and charges are estimated to be $317 million of the revenue.

The operational funding is proposed to increase by 16 per cent to $66 million for the 2024-25 budget when compared with the forecast for 2023-24.

Budgets for user fees are projected to decrease by 1.5 per cent compared to the 2023-24 forecast.

The 2024-25 Capital Works expenditure is budgeted to be $107 million, with a focus on renewing and maintaining existing assets and planning for new infrastructure that supports the growing community.

It includes $15.9 million for road projects, $47.03 million for recreational, leisure, and

community facilities, $8.9 million for parks, open space, and streetscapes, and $4.6 million to improve footpaths and cycleways.

The budget for recreational, leisure, and community facilities has seen the biggest increase from last year, a 142 per cent jump from $19 million to $47 million.

Key infrastructure projects for the next financial year include the renewal of the 50-metre Doveton Pool, the conversion of street lighting from Mercury V to LED, Springleaf Recreation Reserve, Hardy’s Road Family and Community Centre, the upgrade of the Tooradin Recreation Reserve Pavilion, the Strathaird Reserve Pavilion, and the Grices Road Recreation Reserve Pavilion, the implementation of the Greening Casey 10-year Planting Plan, the redevelopment of Ray Bastin Reserve, and improvements to TyabbTooradin Road.

The funding for Capital Works from the State and Federal Governments is expected to increase by 155 per cent to $18 million for 2024-25, due to increased activities within recreational, leisure, and community facilities projects.

City of Casey chair of administrators Noelene Duff PSM commented at the council meeting that the council was working in a tight financial environment.

“As many of our community would understand, the State Government has an imposed rate cap on local government in Victoria, and that rate cap this year is 2.75 per cent,” she said.

“And what we do know is that so many of our costs are in far in excess of that.

“So it is a very challenging financial environment that we’re working in, particularly in a growing community and with the demands for infrastructure within this community.”

All residents are invited to view the draft budget report and make a submission up until 5pm on Wednesday 8 May 2024.

Following the exhibition phase, all submissions will be heard at a Special Council Meeting on Tuesday 28 May and the final budget report will be endorsed at June’s meeting.

Toviewthedraftbudget,visitconversations. casey.vic.gov.au/corporatedocuments24-25

City of Casey chair of administrators Noelene Duff PSM commented at the council meeting that the council was working in a tight financial environment. 234014 Picture: FILE/GARY SISSONS

Milestone in safe driving

By Ethan Benedicto

The City of Casey’s learner driver mentorship program celebrated its 15th anniversary on Tuesday, 16 April, unveiling two new vehicles to aid the program’s capabilities.

Provided by the Berwick Motor Group, two Kia Ceratos graced the plaza at Bunjil Place, adorned with a red ribbon.

Joined by representatives from the Department of Transport, the Transport Accident Commission, the Berwick Motor Group and other members of the council, Casey’s chair of administrators Noelene Duff PSM heralded the anniversary as a milestone for the city’s support towards the young people in the local community.

“The City of Casey is very proud to have been part of this program for such a long period, and in particular we are currently supporting 60 learners, and that is an enormous number of young people who would otherwise not have the opportunity to learn to drive,” Ms Duff said.

The Transport Accident Commission’s (TAC) L2P program is a community-based initiative that was developed to assist eligible young Victorian learner drivers who are between the ages of 16 and 21, and who do not have access to a supervising driver, to gain the required 120 hours to qualify for a probationary license.

In its 15 years of operation, there have been 250 people who have obtained their P plates through the city’s program, an achievement that Ms Duff said meant that “not only do we have 250 safer young drivers on the road, but it’s also the path to independence”.

“Particularly in the City of Casey where we’re great advocates for trying to ensure there’s better public transport, but it’s a very big city and it’s very difficult to negotiate long travel times on public transport so having access to a vehicle is really a means to education, to employment, etc,” she said.

The program matches those eligible with a fully licensed volunteer mentor driver who will not only assist learners obtain their required hours but grant them the exposure and experience needed to safely navigate the city’s roads.

For Ms Duff, the volunteers serve as the backbone of the program. She said the council and her are “so thankful to the volunteers who are here today”.

Cop station design unveiled

By Emma Xerri

Designs for the new Narrre Warren Police Station have been revealed, following the release of the Clyde North Police Station designs in March.

Backed by the State Government, the state-of-the-art stations are part of a $78 million investment in Melbourne’s growing south-east corridor, and will provide modern facilities and law enforcement infrastructure for Victoria Police.

Under this investment, Narre Warren Police Station will receive a major upgrade, while Clyde North will receive a brand-new station.

“Our record investments are about making sureVictoria Police has all the resources they need to keep the community safe,” Minister for Police Anthony Carbines said.

“We’re delivering modern police stations equipped with future-proofed design features so our police have the facilities they need now and into the future.”

Member for Narre Warren South Gary Maas MP, also noted that the upgrade to NarreWarren’s current station will go a long way in upholding community safety.

“Victoria Police keep our community safe and I am looking forward to the next phases of delivering this important police

station major upgrade for NarreWarren and surrounding suburbs,” he said.

“The officers and staff at Narre Warren Police Station do so much for our community and I know they are looking forward to the upgrade of their facility.

“The Allan Labor Government is backing our police with contemporary and innovatively designed police stations that will help them uphold the law and promote a safe, secure and orderly society.”

Tenders for construction will be released in the coming months, inviting builders to enter a formal submission to build the stations.

you become ambassadors for the program, you become the advertising to encourage other people to participate.”

The program is funded by the TAC and administered by the DTP, which then the City of Casey coordinates for the local community.

Hatsady Sathongnot, a DTP representative who spoke during the event said that the initiative is more than just a licensing program, where when asked by his children, said that he helps “make other kids have the opportunity that you kids have to make their lives better”.

“For us it’s not about the numbers, it’s changing someone’s life, giving them that foundation to better themselves, and this program is what that’s about - making them a safer driver, teaching them to be good citizens.

“And hopefully they impart that knowledge and their learnings from this program onto their kids and their friends, to have that influence in society and that’s what it’s all about at the end of the day,” he said.

One of the volunteer mentors Irene Luchtwark and her student, Alyssa Byrne, were also present during the event, with Ms Luchtwark recounting her experience with Ms Byrne as “absolutely brilliant”.

“The buzz of seeing a new driver morphing from a nervous or dangerous and overconfident one into a confident and competent driver is what I’m here for.

“The issue we have of course in the City of Casey is so many members of our community are new to Australia and perhaps do not have people that have the confidence or are willing to help them to learn how to drive.

“So the volunteers that have been part of the program, many of you for such a long time, are such a valuable resource and we know that

“It’s also really nice when we can stay in contact and see how they develop and how theirs and our investment is paying off, and it is an investment, it takes time and dedication and nerves, a lot of calm energy and a good dollop of humour to be there from fledgling driver to obtaining 120 hours,” she said.

The celebration ended with all event attendees gathering at the plaza, where Ms Byrne had the pleasure of cutting the ribbon on the two new vehicles, officially making them part of the TAC L2P program.

THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN

Thumbs up

To ParksVictoria and State Gov’t for requesting tenders for the Warneet Jetties Replacement.

Thumbs down

To a cashless society.

Thumbs up

To terrific volunteers selling ANZAC Appeal badges for Pakenham RSL and to the very generous people of Pakenham.

Thumbs down

To people dumping household rubbish around the community clothing bins.

Thumbs up

To the Smiley Brewing customers, who attended the first music bingo at the brewery. So much fun and energy. Was a great night.

The two new cars with Noelene Duff PSM (far right), Alyssa Byrne (middle), Irene Luchtwark (fourth from left) and Hatsady Sathongnot (second left).

Picture: ETHAN BENEDICTO

Minister for Police Anthony Carbines and Gary Maas MP at the Narre Warren Police Station.

Front entry view design for upgraded Narre Warren Police Station.

Arthur and Zaviar are off to the playground at the Teddy Bears Picnic at the Old Cheese Factory in Berwick. 400694

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Time running out for cafe

By Violet Li Cranbourne’s

beloved social enterprise cafe has been given a three-month eviction notice by Casey Council, leaving the business devastated and the community angered.

A petition to save the L’Arte Central Social Enterprise Cafe, Catering & Florist in Cranbourne East has attracted more than 2500 signatures within three days.

L’Arte Central is a not-for-profit cafe, florist, and art space located at the Casey Administration Building at Berwick-Cranbourne Road.

It provides employment, training, and participation opportunities to vulnerable and atrisk youth.

Director Anthony Cheeseman said he knew very well that the building would be eventually “decommissioned” sometime in the future, but said the council caught them off guard with a short notice.

In May 2023, the council engaged with relevant tenants of the building, including L’Arte, to inform them of the plans for a proposed community hub, as well as the future closure of the building.

The building has been assessed as an “endof-life” asset by the council.

Mr Cheeseman said that a specific timeline for the closure was not pinned down at that meeting, nor were the preferred tenant partners at the new hub other than Cranbourne Library.

He heard nothing afterwards until a month ago, when he was told that the council would not renew their lease and they would have to move out by the end of June this year.

“Basically, the council would work with us [tenants in the building] to get us out over a period of time,” he said.

“But we’re the first ones to be given the

[eviction] notice.

“Our lease expired in October last year, and I kept sending emails to council asking if we are going to get a new lease, they always say they are busy at the moment and they have not made the decision.

“Now I got told that’s why they didn’t give me a lease, because they were never going to give me a letter of offer anyway.”

The March council meeting revealed that the proposed community hub would be completed around 2028, and L’Arte was not identified as a tenant partner.

Mr Cheeseman said all they wanted was another 12-month holdover, which he believed was reasonable considering the completion time of the new hub.

“We won’t be going down without a fight,” he said.

Mr Cheeseman emailed Casey’s chief executive officer Glenn Patterson for help, but

the response staggered him.

“He said my enterprise and the community services it offers is beyond the remit of council,” he said.

“So, the council doesn’t care about people with disabilities. That’s basically what you’re saying by ‘beyond the remit of council’, which is pretty brutal.”

“We’ll look for somewhere else. Just give us the time to look for somewhere else. It’s unfair with what they’re doing.

“If we’re not going to be here, they should be helping us to find somewhere else.”

Mr Cheeseman said the short-notice eviction would leave 45 hardworking locals without jobs, including 30 staff and 15 participants with disabilities.

“They’re very shocked because they don’t know what to do. I think a lot of them have mortgages, personal loans, and families,” he said.

“This social enterprise has been a cornerstone of our community since its commencement in 2019.

“It’s not just a place where we get our coffee, our food, or our flowers. It’s where we connect with each other, share stories, and build relationships.

“The cafe, catering, and florist have provided employment and participation opportunities for many locals.”

Locals have spoken out in support of the cafe and disappointment towards the council.

“It is sad to see that a place so important to the ones who need a special place to flourish gets taken from them,” one resident wrote under the petition.

“There is plenty of time to help these businesses transition to a new home suitable to the special needs of the community. You have

years, yet only give them months.

“We are not just talking about the costs involved, but the necessary time needed for the special people within.

“Disgusting display of inclusivity and caring for the community.”

City of Casey chair of administrators Noelene Duff PSM said the council acknowledged the wonderful work of social enterprises, such as L’Arte, and the positive impact they had on our community.

“The City of Casey has demonstrated how much we value their work via the provision of support in a number of ways in recent years,” she said.

“The Administration Building where L’Arte is currently located will be decommissioned as it is at the end of its life and not financially responsible to retain. With this understanding, all lease agreements with tenants have been of a limited tenure.

“Council first engaged with L’Arte regarding the future of the precinct in 2019, and the Administration Building in May 2023 encouraging them to consider possible new options.

“As much as we want to see L’Arte continue to thrive, they are ultimately a business, and therefore the responsibility to find a new location and plan around the future needs of their business sits with the owners/managers.

“We are strongly committed to supporting L’Arte through this transition as much as possible. This includes linking them with upcoming tender opportunities, and introductions with prospective new landlords or property owners.”

L’Arte was set to have a follow-up meeting with the Casey Council on 19 April to discuss the transition plan.

To sign the petition, visit change.org/p/ save-the-l-arte-central-social-enterprise-cafe-catering-florist-in-cranbourne

L’Arte Central director Anthony Cheeseman is fighting for the future of Cranbourne’s beloved social enterprise café. 400937

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Push for ongoing funding

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

An award-winning South East service is calling for funding to continue its family violence prevention work.

Wellsprings for Women was presented the Fiona Richardson Award for Gender Equity on 12 April for its ground-breaking Be The Voice magazine.

Chief executive Dalal Smiley said the award was timely as the service was lobbying to renew funding for its six-year community education program in the upcoming State Budget.

A recent Wellsprings social media post calling for funding was trolled by what supporters described as “disgusting”, “disgraceful” and “misogynistic” comments.

“Wellsprings’ campaign to secure ongoing funding for Prevention of Violence Against Women received a lot of support on social media,” Smiley said.

“But it also flushed out the kind of attitudes and commentaries that persist in our society which undermine prevention work, perpetuate misogyny, condone violence against women, and deny the seriousness and damaging effects of domestic violence on women and children.

“This is happening despite the glaring fact that at least one woman is murdered each week in this country by a current or former partner.

“We have so much work to do before women feel safe wherever they are and whoever they are with.”

Smiley said the prevention work which targeted migrant and refugee women who face language and cultural barriers was vital to reducing family violence.

“Such programs help women to understand that family violence is more than physical abuse.

“They start to recognise all forms of abuse: emotional, financial, religious, and coercive control tactics.

“If we don’t keep doing this, the rate of women becoming victims to family violence will continue to increase.”

Last year, the State Government provided $788,000 over two years for a separate Wellsprings service to support victim survivors of family and sexual violence as well as funding for the awareness program.

A spokesperson said the government’s “nation-leading work to end family violence” includ-

ed helping refugee, migrant and asylum seeker women overcome barriers to seeking help.

“We are making it easier forVictoria’s diverse communities to access help when they are victims of family violence with a range of measures such as fundingWellsprings forWomen.”

Meanwhile, the project Be The Voice was awarded at Wellsprings by Neighbourhood HousesVictoria chief executive Kier Paterson.

Be The Voice is a digital and print multilingual magazine co-designed with South East women from Indian, Afghan and Arabic-speaking backgrounds.

They provided the stories. And collaborated on three sensitive topics relating to family violence – coercive control, sexual assault, and early and forced marriages.

More than 1000 copies of the magazine have been distributed. It is also available online.

Wellsprings chair Janet Cribbes said the women tackled topics that are “deeply personal and private”.

“This was made possible by ensuring the women feel safe to share and are supported throughout the project.”

A participant said that “sense of security” was the best part about the project.

“Personally, I could easily express all my problems without fear of being revealed.

“We get inspired and understood so much about women’s rights and family.”

Orange Door visit highlights family violence support

By Violet Li

Family Violence Prevention Minister Vicki Ward and Fiji’s Assistant Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection Sashi Kiran visited the Orange Door in Cranbourne on Thursday 11 April.

They talked with the staff and women in Cranbourne, sharing information on how diverse communities can benefit from family violence support services.

Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards was also present during the conversation, sharing insights into how to ensure the safety and strength of the community through the services.

Ms Ward said Ms Kiran became interested in visiting the service after hearing about it.

“There is a Fijian community down here in Cranbourne.We know that if there is coverage of a Fijian minister coming out to visit, the Fijian community will look at it, and they will see that the Orange Door is here to support them,” she said.

Ms Ward and Ms Richards acknowledged that family violence had been a serious issue in Casey as it had the highest incidence of family violence in the state.

“It’s great that we have got the Orange Door here who can offer that support that is needed,” MsWard said.

The Orange Door network provides access

do a call out to the diverse communities that are in the City of Casey to think about working in family violence, in social work as a career,” she said.

“It’s an incredibly rewarding career. It’s an amazing collaborative career, and the outcomes that you can achieve are incredible.

“You are literally changing lives with every person that you talk to and changing lives for the better.”

Ms Kiran stood with Ms Ward and said it was very important to have this multicultural service provider in a place where they trusted each other and could share their experiences.

“Our victims do not have to repeat the story to so many stakeholders and they are actually looked after,” she said.

“I think it’s something that Fiji and the Pacific will benefit greatly from.This service here could really support people under one collective roof.

menced in December 2021 and the one in Cranbourne commenced in February 2023, sitting next to Community Information and Support Cranbourne on Sladen Street.

The Cranbourne access point is currently at a temporary location while the permanent site nearby is being built.

At the temporary Cranbourne site, there are 14 staff providing a service to clients who directly access the service by phone or attending the office.

Since its opening until the end of March 2024, The Orange Door Southern Melbourne has received more than 43,000 referrals and provided support to more than 51,000 people including more than 22,000 children.

On average, the Southern Melbourne Area receives 350 referrals per week which translates to approximately 1400 people per week.

to coordinated help and support for people experiencing family violence and for families needing support for the well-being and development of their children.

MsWard said she wanted to encourage the multicultural community in Casey to look at the sector as a potential employer.

“We can’t work as much with the multicultural communities as we would like when we don’t have as many multicultural employees in the sector as we would like, so I would really

“It’s a service not only to a child or a woman being affected by violence but also to any person who’s using violence.

“They can find support to be able to figure out how their actions and words are impacting so many people, so we could have a longer support system to change their behaviours.”

The Orange Door Southern Melbourne Area network commenced services on 9 November 2021 at a primary site in Dandenong.

The access point in Pakenham com-

The Orange Door Southern Melbourne Area network seeks to tailor a service to the needs of multicultural communities in the local area.

The Orange Door provides access to support face-to-face or via telephone or email.

The Orange Door network in Southern Melbourne is a free service and can be contacted on 1800 271 170 or via sma@orangedoor.vic.gov.au from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday.

For more information, visit orangedoor.vic. gov.au

Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards (left), Fiji’s Assistant Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection Sashi Kiran, Minister for Prevention of Family Violence Vicki Ward, Southern Melbourne Orange Door Hub manager at Family Safety Victoria Shelley Mullens, senior manager Early Help and Entry Point at Uniting Vic/Tas Belinda Berry.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Greater Dandenong mayor Lana Formoso, Wellsprings for Women chair Janet Cribbes, Neighbourhood Houses Victoria’s CEO Kier Paterson and state MP Gary Maas at the Fiona Richardson award presentation. 399855 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

We’re building big near you and there will be transport disruptions

As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re easing congestion by building better roads and undertaking maintenance works in Melbourne’s south east. We’re also removing dangerous and congested level crossings and building the Metro Tunnel.

What we’re doing

In Cranbourne, over the coming months we’re working to open the new northbound lanes on Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road between Linsell Boulevard and Thompsons Road.

In April, we’ll move traffic onto the new southbound lanes on Healesville-Koo Wee Rup Road between Ballarto and Ellett roads in Pakenham South.

On the Princes Freeway in Pakenham, we’ll asphalt the new lane between McGregor and Healesville-Koo Wee Rup roads, and open the new outbound Princes Freeway entry ramp at McGregor Road in May.

Train disruptions: Buses replace trains in both directions

Cranbourne and Pakenham lines 4 to 5 May Caulfield to Westall Road disruptions: Closed roads and lanes

Brunt Road, Beaconsfield Until late AprClosed at the level crossing between Edinburgh Drive and Rix Road

Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road, Cranbourne East Until mid-2024Closed between Berwick-Cranbourne Road and New Holland Drive

Camms Road, Cranbourne East Until mid-2024Closed at Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road

Ballarto Road, Carrum Downs and Skye

Until mid-2024Closed at McCormicks Road with detours and lane closures at times between Boggy Creek and Potts Road Ballarto Road, Pakenham South 7am to 6pm 15 to 20 Apr

Healesville-Koo Wee Rup Road, Pakenham 7pm 15 Apr to 6am 16 Apr

8pm to 5am each night, 16 to 18 Apr

Check before you travel at bigbuild.vic.gov.au

ON … ANZAC DAY

Services around Casey

The City of Casey will support a number of Anzac Day services being held throughout the municipality to honour the occasion. These events are organised by local community groups and proudly supported by council.

Tuesday 23 April

Endeavour Hills

· Cranbourne/Dandenong RSL will be hosting a service at 11am.

· Location: Endeavour Hills War Memorial, Heatherton Road, Endeavour Hills.

Thursday 25 April

Berwick

· Berwick RSL will be hosting a march and service at 10.40am.

· Location: Berwick Cenotaph, High Street, Berwick.

Cranbourne

· Cranbourne/Dandenong RSL will be hosting a service at 6am.

· Location: Cenotaph Area, High Street, Cranbourne.

Cranbourne

· Cranbourne/Dandenong RSL will be hosting a march and service at 10.40am.

· Location: Cenotaph Area, High Street, Cranbourne.

Hampton Park

· Hampton Park Progress Association Service will be hosting a service at 6am.

· Location: ANZAC Memorial, Arthur Wren Hall, 16-20 Stuart Avenue, Hampton Park.

Narre Warren

· Berwick RSL will be hosting a service at 6am.

Breakfast to follow.

· Location: Bunjil Place, 2 Patrick Northeast Drive, Narre Warren.

Pearcedale

· Pearcedale Public Hall Committee Service will be hosting a service at 6am. Breakfast to follow.

· Location: Pearcedale Public Hall, 45 Pearcedale Road, Pearcedale.

Missing RAAF World War II bomber found

Air Force has positively identified a Number 100 Squadron (100SQN) World War II Beaufort aircraft (A9-186) first reported missing in 1943.

The aircraft was discovered recently after a challenging mission in the waters south of Gasmata, Papua New Guinea.

Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Robert Chipman, confirmed the identification of the crash site, which was discovered in 2020. The discovery was made by an Ocean Ecology Pty Ltd dive team working for Dr Andrew Forrest as part of an ongoing search for his uncle, Flying Officer David Forrest, who was lost during a mission to Gasmata while piloting a similar RAAF 100SQN Beaufort.

In February 2022, Dr Forrest’s team returned to the crash site to identify the aircraft. Two members of the RAAF Directorate of Historical Unrecovered War Casualties (HUWC) accompanied the mission to provide historical aviation expertise and support. The A9-186 wreck site is located in 43 metres of water, which meant positively identifying the remains of the aircraft after 79 years took considerable time and effort.

Air Marshal Chipman said the mission involved the use of specialist divers who worked on an aircraft extensively damaged by fire and covered in layers of sediment and marine growth.

“The aircraft identity plate and cockpit lever were recovered from the site and will be returned to Australia under a permit granted by the PNG National Museum and Art Gallery (NMAG),” Air Marshal Chipman said.

“Small amounts of bone material recov-

ered during the identification mission were analysed by anthropologists and DNA specialists. The RAAF’s HUWC team collated the evidence and a Defence Identification Board identified the remains as those of Warrant Officer Clement Batstone Wiggins and Warrant Officer Russell Henry Grigg.

“Unfortunately, it’s with a heavy heart we can confirm that no remains of the other two crew members, Flight Sergeant Albert Beckett and Flight Sergeant Gordon Lewis Hamilton, were recovered.

“We will continue to strive to find, recover and identify our missing service personnel as part of our commitment to honouring their service and sacrifice for our nation,” Air Marshal Chipman said.

The crew of 100SQN Beaufort A9-186 was:

Warrant Officer Clement Batstone Wiggins. Born in Gatton, Queensland, he worked as a school teacher before enlisting in Brisbane in March 1941. Warrant Officer Wiggins was 28 years old when killed in action.

Warrant Officer Russell Henry Grigg. Born in Brisbane, Queensland, he worked as a fruit grower before enlisting in Brisbane in March 1941.

Warrant Officer Grigg was 34 years old when killed in action.

Flight Sergeant Albert Beckett. Born in Launceston, Tasmania, he worked as an apprentice carpenter before enlisting in Tasmania in November 1941.

Flight Sergeant Beckett was 22 years old when killed in action.

Flight Sergeant Gordon Lewis Hamilton. Born in Brisbane, Queensland, he worked as

Michael Galea MP

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a baker’s assistant before enlisting in Brisbane in July 1941. Flight Sergeant Hamilton was 26 years old when killed in action.

“No further recovery is planned for this challenging crash site,” Air Marshal Chipman said.

“A memorial service for the families of all four crew is being planned for 26 April 2024 at RAAF Base Amberley, Queensland.

“Thank you to all those involved in this significant mission; it is especially heartwarming for the families of the four aviators involved to finally know what happened and learn of their final resting place.”

The RAAF acknowledges and thanks Dr Forrest and his team for the efforts and resources that have led to four families provided with closure of their wartime loss.

Dr Forrest said despite so many years having passed, it remained incredibly important for the families to know what happened to their loved ones.

“We must never forget the sacrifices these young men and women made.

“They had their entire lives ahead of them yet were prepared to risk it all to defend our country and our way of life,” Dr Forrest said.

SQNLDR Ash Matic,

Historic Unrecovered War Casualties – Air Force, watches video relayed from the sea floor during the A9-186 investigation.

The City of Casey will support a number of Anzac Day services being held throughout the municipality to honour the occasion. 331025 Picture: FILE/ROB CAREW

FOCUS ON … ANZAC DAY

Australian pilot honoured

The Australian War Memorial in Canberra commemorated the service and sacrifice of Squadron Leader James Catanach at a Last Post Ceremony on 25 March 2024.

James Catanach was part of the escape from Stalag Luft III made famous in the movie The Great Escape. The ceremony occurred on the 80th anniversary of the escape.

James was born in the Melbourne suburb of Malvern and enlisted in the Royal Australian Air Force in August 1940, aged 18, and trained as a pilot before embarking for service overseas.

James flew with No. 455 Squadron, RAAF –the first Australian squadron to bomb Germany – and between June of 1941 and September 1942 took part in operations against industrial targets in Germany and in support of convoys bound for the Soviet Union.

In June 1942, James was promoted to squadron leader, reportedly the youngest person in the Royal Australian Air Force to achieve that rank. The same month, he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for attacks across Germany.

In September 1942 his aircraft was struck by enemy fire. He landed under fire on the northern Norwegian shoreline, near the Russian border, saving the lives of all on board by avoiding the freezing Arctic waters.

James and his crew were captured and imprisoned in Stalag Luft III. He was among 76 men to escape as part of the Great Escape on the night of 24/25 March 1944.

James and three other prisoners teamed up and reached Berlin before changing trains for Hamburg, but were caught while travelling to the Danish border.

The men were handed over to the Gestapo who interrogated them and told them they would be returned to the prison camp. On the 29 March 1944 James Catanach and his fellow prisoners were cold-bloodedly executed in the

Support for communities commemorating Anzac Day

As Anzac Day approaches, we not only remember those who served on the beaches of Gallipoli and the trenches of the Western Front, but all Australians who have served and sacrificed and the 103,000 who have died in the name of our nation.

“Anzac Day is one of the most significant days of commemoration for Australians,” Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Matt Keogh, said in a statement.

“More than a century since the ANZAC landings at Gallipoli, we continue to gather each year to honour the sacrifice of all Australians who have served in Australia’s name.

countryside by Gestapo agents. James Catanach was 22 years old. He was posthumously Mentioned in Despatches in

June 1944; his Distinguished Flying Cross medal was handed to his next of kin.

The Last Post ceremony is held at 4.30 pm every day except Christmas Day in the Commemorative area of the Australian War Memorial.

Each ceremony shares the story behind one of 103,000 names on the Roll of Honour. To date, the Memorial has delivered more than 3,300 ceremonies, each featuring individual stories of service from colonial to recent conflicts. It would take almost 280 years to read the story behind each of the 103,000 names listed on the Roll of Honour.

“The Last Post Ceremony is our commitment to remembering and honouring the legacy of Australian service,” memorial director Matt Anderson said.

“Through our daily Last Post Ceremony, we not only acknowledge where and how these men and women died. We also tell the stories of who they were when they were alive, and of the families who loved and, in so many cases, still mourn for them.

“The Last Post is now associated with remembrance but originally it was a bugle call to sound the end of the day’s activities in the military. It is a fitting way to end each day at the Memorial.”

The Last Post Ceremony honouring the service of James Catanach was live streamed to the Australian War Memorial’s YouTube page at youtube.com/c/awmlastpost

The stories told at the Last Post Ceremony are researched and written by the Memorial’s military historians, who begin the process by looking at service records and other official and private records before building profiles that include pre-war life, personal milestones and military experiences.

The Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) has developed a digital Anzac Day Kitbag and commemorative package to support Australians conducting their own Anzac Day service, whether that be at home or in the community.

To download the Anzac Day Kitbag, visit anzacportal.dva.gov.au/resources/anzacday-kitbag

For support, Open Arms is available 24/7 on 1800 011 046 or visit openarms.gov.au

“It has served as a cornerstone of our national identity for well over a century. It is a day that brings us together as a nation. It is a day that unites us and transcends our differences.”

Service for ANZAC day will be held at Bunjil place 6am. Dawn service Berwick RSL will assemble at 10.40am to walk to the memorial site at High Street, Berwick for 11am service.

On behalf of the Berwick RSL Sub-branch, especially our veteran community, I would like to thank you the people of Berwick and surrounds for your very generous donations and support as part of our Poppy and ANZAC Appeals. All money raised from these appeals goes directly into supporting the veteran community of Berwick.

LEST WE FORGET

Leuchars, Scotland. C. 1942-04. A group portrait of senior aircrew members of No. 455 Squadron RAAF, at an RAF Station. Left to right: 403403 Acting Flight Lieutenant (A/F Lt) J. N. Davenport, Deputy Flight Commander “A” Flight; 400364 Acting Squadron Leader (A/Sqn Ldr) J. Catanach DFC, Officer Commanding (OC) “A” Flight; 37032 Wing Commander G. M. Lindeman, CO; 402575 A/F Lt L. P. Oliver DFC, Squadron Navigation Officer; 406356 A/Sqn Ldr R. Holmes, OC ”B” Flight.

THE LOWDOWN

Q&A with Cranbourne West uni student Sahaya Merin Victor Babu

Tell us about yourself and what you study at uni!

As a Bachelor of Software Engineering student at RMIT University, I am deeply interested in advancing cybersecurity and crafting innovative solutions that enhance the safety and reliability of technology for users worldwide. Inspired by the trailblazing efforts of tech luminaries who’ve left a lasting positive impact on society, I aspire to contribute to the greater good by creating secure technology. My primary focus lies in harnessing the power of artificial intelligence to develop software applications that address pressing societal needs and assist those facing challenges. Beyond my academic pursuits, I find joy in going to the gym, immersing myself in movies and music, delving into books, and indulging in my favourite cuisines during my leisure time.

What do you love the most about what you study at uni?

We just started learning programming languages so I haven’t been exposed to most of the aspects of software engineering yet. What has been your most memorable moment during uni so far?

Becoming a member of RUSU (RMIT University Student Union) unlocked many benefits and connections such as free food.

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

A butterfly waiting to get out of its cocoon and fly!

What were you like as a kid?

I devoted most of my time to studying, leaving little room for socialising with my friends. I was talkative and confident, firmly believing that academic grades held the utmost importance.

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

I would like to witness the day I was born. Which six dinner guests, dead or alive, would you invite to dinner?

Diana Princess of Wales, Song Joong Ki, Park Hyung SIk, Park Bo Young, Kim Ji Won, Lee Sung Kyung (I know - I’m a big K-Drama fan).

What three words would your friends use to describe you?

Innocent, hardworking, overthinker. What would you do on your perfect ’day off’?

THREE … ways to celebrate Earth Day

1 Community help

Earth Day is on 22 April, and it’s all about taking care of the planet we live in, honouring and celebrating, while also reminding ourselves of the importance of environmental conservation and sustainability. One way to contribute during Earth Day is to take the time to go around your local community and pick up trash and recyclables that have been discarded on the ground.

2 Advocating

Awareness is key in keeping the initiative moving past Earth Day and making it a constant reminder for you, friends and family with everyday living. Engaging through social media, volunteering and even just talking about the issue can keep everyone environmentally aware.

I would spend my whole day at a beach, watch the sunrise, travel on a cruise and watch the sunset.

Where is your happy place? Library.

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

Anything with chocolate in it!

Where is your dream holiday destination? Italy.

3 Sustainability

Opting for more sustainable options in everyday life can make a big difference, such as purchasing second-hand clothing instead of shopping for new ones. Doing so encourages recycling and can be a step forward in moving past so-called fast fashion.

Motorists ‘failing’ basics

New Victoria Police analysis shows more than 24,000 infringements were issued in a single year for some of the simplest of road rules.

The force is urging people to focus on the foundations of good driving, warning even minor mistakes or inattention can have catastrophic consequences.

Such single acts of non-compliance typically account for more than half of road deaths each year.

The analysis - covering the latest financial year - shows almost 8000 infringements were issued for motorists failing to obey traffic lights alone. This includes running red lights, ignoring amber lights and disobeying traffic lane signals.

A further 3000 drivers failed to obey stop signs.

Behaviour at intersections was of particular concern.

There were 2000 infringements for failing to give way at intersections and 1300 for ignoring give way signs.

Roundabouts appeared a mystery to many who entered them from the wrong lane, ignored traffic arrows and didn’t give way when they were supposed to.

To the continued astonishment of police, 4300 fines were issued for people not wearing a seatbelt or not wearing one properly.

Victoria Police hopes releasing the figures will prompt road users to think about their behaviour and how it affects the safety of others – especially people walking, riding bikes and on motorcycles.

Merin. 398335

Picture: ROB CAREW

Foot and Leg pain formula

Foot, knee, and leg pain is extremely common and problematic yet successful treatment with long-term outcomes can be hard to find.

Veteran Musculoskeletal Podiatrist Dr. Paul Dowie, from Foot and Leg Pain Clinics, provided some insight into his winning formula for assisting pain and injuries, which employs all of the following considerations:

1. Underlying Causes and Contributing Factors: Foot and leg pain can stem from biomechanical issues, injuries, overuse, arthritis, repetitive stress, nerve and vascular problems. Accurately diagnosing the underlying cause and contributing factors is essential for effective treatment.

2. Individual Variability: Each person’s pain experience, tolerance and response to intervention is unique, so understanding the nature of the condition, and tailoring indi-

If you need assistance with foot, knee or leg pain, injuries, arthritis or children’s growth and development concerns you can consult Dr. Dowie.

vidual treatment plans is crucial.

3. Conservative vs. Surgical Approachs: Depending on the severity and nature of the condition, treatment can vary from con-

servative to surgical. In most cases a nonpharmaceutical approach provides better long-term healing outcomes, often helping to avoid surgical intervention. Weight bearing strategies, strengthening and condition programs, physical therapy, structured rest and natural regenerative injection therapies, such as Prolotherapy or PRP, are all excellent strategies to assist healing before considering surgical approaches.

4. Orthoses Assistance: Custom orthotics, braces, splints, walker boots, strapping and taping can all be very helpful to either support, immobilise or treat. Such devises can help improve gait, relieve joint and tissue stress, improve mobility, enhance stability and comfort.

5. Multidisciplinary Care Options: Some cases benefit from a multidisciplinary approach with various specialists working together to

A specialist orthodontist on our doorstep

He then completed a Doctor of Dental Surgery in Canada. Following this, he practiced general dentistry for 20 years before returning to complete a Masters in Dental Science degree specialising in orthodontics. He has been a specialist orthodontist since 2000.

Kip’s a widely respected lecturer at local, national and international level and an honorary fellow at the University of Melbourne where he teaches the postgraduate orthodon-

tic students. Kip has examined for the University of Melbourne at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons and the Australian Dental Course. He is a Member of the Royal Australian College of Dental Surgeons and the Pierre Fauchard Academy.

Kip’s hobbies include swimming, cycling, skiing, golf and triathlon. Kip has been married to his wife, Leah, since 1987. They have three children together; Matt, Laura and Renee. Kip is a grandpa (KipPa) to Noah and Orlando and enjoys spending time with the entire family; old and new. The household

is filled with a dog Nala, and two cats, Gucci and Dior. Kip has an intense passion for his work. He loves orthodontics and the results achieved from treatment. He is always happy to see how pleased his patients and their families are with the results. You’ll be comfortable with his easy-going nature and sense of humour. He’ll treat you like a member of his family and your children as if they were his own.

South East Orthodontics is located at Suite 5, Level 1/18-24 Clyde Rd, Berwick.Phone 9330 0702 or visit their website at www.seortho.com.au

provide comprehensive care.

6. Appropriate Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation plays a vital role in restoring function and reducing pain. Targeted strengthening and conditioning programs can play a crucial role in successful treatment.

7. Lifestyle & Activity Modifications: This can help to help alleviate stress on affected joints and tissues.

8. Patient Education: Educating patients about their condition, treatment options, and selfcare techniques can greatly assist long-term wellness.

If you need assistance with foot, knee or leg pain, injuries, arthritis or children’s growth and development concerns you can consult Dr. Dowie at his Foot and Leg Pain Clinic in Berwick.

· Ph 1300 328 300

Dr Kip Homewood, a specialist orthodontist at South East Orthodontics.

John’s woodcraft vision

By Violet Li

John McMahon has more than enough to offer when it comes to woodcrafts.

A visit to his workshop in the Berwick District Woodworkers Club would stun you with a variety of his crafts: a vase made from Japanese weeping cherries that he encountered in his friend’s front garden, a born-again decomposed rotten elm plate, a delicately shaped mess mate pot with kaleidoscopic butterfly hollows, and certainly, the wood gadgets for children.

The 2024 Lindsay King Art Award winner, John has been dealing with woods and contributing to the handmade toys the club makes for local children’s charities since he became a member in 1996.

A lot has changed over the years.Woodwork used to be tucked away somewhere in the club or their owners’ cabinets. Now, they are displayed at an annual exhibition in July as part of the CaseyWinter Arts Festival, a new agenda that started about four years ago for people see the craftsman’s spirit.

But the stage is not big enough. Now, John has been brewing a bigger vision for the appreciation and conservation of his lifetime devotion: to establish Australia’s first National Woodcraft Collection and Exhibition Centre in Berwick.

“It’s a two-fold vision. We also want to develop a craft hub,” John said.

“We’re talking about all sorts of craftwork, like metalwork, glasswork, and pottery work. People, clubs, or individuals who are trying to set themselves up as professionals, and are still in the early days, can hire these rooms.

“And the general public will come in, and they’ll be able to see all the woodwork and all these people doing all these other craft works at the same place.

“This is all part of the vision, and we want to

BUSINESS PROFILE

develop it as a major tourist attraction, but we also want to develop it as a community-based thing where people get encouraged to mix and become friendly and get that support and communal in.”

For the past three years, John has been promoting this vision amongst all the local, State, and Federal MPs and the council to make it move ahead.

“Some of the Australian timbers are renowned around the world for their quality and their character. And we’ve got woodworking practitioners that are world famous. And when they make something, it finishes up in galleries all around the world,” John said.

“But we don’t have anywhere in Australia that collects Australian woodwork as part of

the National Estate.

“What happens is a museum or a gallery might get a piece of a table or a chair or a cabin, and they put that one piece of woodwork in a big room that’s got all paintings already. When people come in to see it, they see all the paintings but don’t pay any attention to that bit of woodwork.”

For woodwork collectors, the common fear is that when they die, all their woodwork will finish up at the local op shop, including pieces that are worth thousands of dollars, John observed.

“I’ve always felt that, done the right way, any bit of woodwork can be considered a piece of art,” he said.

Motivated by the perspectives, John has

been trying to encourage people to consider that they’re producing art and get them to perceive it as art.

“Five years ago, a lot of our club members would come here, and they’d just make the toys, and they’d make themselves a box to put stuff in for home,” he said.

“But now when they come here and they do their box, they take a bit more pride in it, a bit of care in it, and they think about more what the finished product is going to look like, and they put more work into it, making it into a piece of art.

“And the community is starting to see that [as art] as well.”

John’s approach to woodcraft has been philosophical in nature. A process appearing laborsome to an outsider gives him “a chance to be creative” and“an escape in his mind from other things”.

His favourite part is oiling. The oil soaks into the wood and coats shininess around it. It depends on the wood on how many coats of oil need to be used. The more coats of oil you put on, the shinier it will get.

“You usually start with anywhere from two to three coats of oil. But then depending on the wood, you might finish up putting 10 or 12 coats of oil on,” he said.

“You leave it for about 10 minutes for it to soak in, and then you rub it all off. All the excess oil gets rubbed off.

“When the oil soaks in, it soaks in more in some places than in other places. Then you have to wait for anywhere from 12 to 24 hours to do another coat.

“You do your second coat; you just keep repeating that until it’s no longer soaking oil anywhere.

“If you’re doing 12 coats, it’s 12 days just doing the oiling. But you’re only spending 10 minutes a day doing it.”

Celebrate Dutch culture at the Holland Festival in Scoresby

The upcoming Holland Festival, organised by the Rotary Club of Casey, will take place entirely indoors at Caribbean Gardens in Scoresby, spanning 7000sqm under the roof.

Free parking for 4000 cars will be available for attendees.

This festival aims to celebrate and unite the Dutch diaspora while also raising funds for charitable causes such as Interplast and Wheelchairs for Kids. The event will feature a children’s carnival and various food vendors indoors, set amidst beautifully manicured gardens and a picturesque lake. Attendees can expect ample seating indoors.

The Holland Festival successfully returned in 2017, 2019, 2022, and 2023, drawing approximately 4000 visitors each year. This upcoming edition will mark the 50th anniversary since the inaugural festival.

With over 30 Dutch food options provided by more than 25 vendors offering a variety of hot and cold dishes, both savoury and sweet, the culinary experience promises to be delightful. But the food is just the beginning. Attendees can also look forward to encountering historical reenactments including soldiers from the 1560-1640 Dutch-Spanish War, as well as around 50 Dutch exhibitors and vendors.

Notable sponsors like John Behrend Instruments, Hanson Building Materials, and Plunkett Crane Trucks, along with others, have already pledged their support. The event is set to feature a liquor license, live performances including bands, choirs, and singers in both Dutch and English from 10.30am to 6pm.

Moreover, there will be an all-day sjoelbak tournament catering to all age groups, offering fantastic prizes to winners. Carnival rides for children, along with various other Dutch cultural experiences, will enhance the festival’s offerings.

Importantly, 100 per cent of the proceeds generated from the event will go towards supporting Rotary-backed charities.

Compagnie Batavia will be at the Holland Festival on Koningsdag, 27 April, this year… You won’t want to miss them. This will be history come to life…

Compagnie Batavia 1600-1630 is Australia’s premiere 80 years’ war living history group. The recreation of elements of a Dutch militia company from the early 17th century including staff, Pikeman, musketeers and camp followers wearing clothing and using equipment that are exact replicas as worn by soldiers and

civilians of the period. Diverse activities undertaken such as cooking, sewing, coin striking, leatherwork, starting fire with flint and steel and setting up a tented encampment help bring the Dutch golden age to life.

The Compagnie also undertakes pike and musket drill according to the statutes of Price Maurits von Nassau to the beat of the drum and the waving of the flag.

Group members have attended events in the Netherlands such as Bourtange, Slag Om

Heligerlee and Slag om Grolle linking up with like-minded living history practitioners and taking part in large scale battle reenactments and living history displays.

Holland Festival 2024 – 27 April at Caribbean Gardens, Scoresby.

More information:

· info@hollandfestival.org.au

· hollandfestival.org.au

Marianne from Montrose at a previous Holland Festival playing a Street Organ that goes by the name of Marianne.

Compagnie Batavia 1600-1630 is Australia’s premiere 80 years’ war living history group and will be attending the festival.

John McMahon with his crafts in the Berwick District Woodworkers Club. 399597

Picture: ROB CAREW

Nawroz Festival a success

The Bakhtar Casey Nawroz Festival 2024 held on Saturday 13 April in Hallam was a resounding success.

Drawing a crowd of more than 2000 enthusiastic community members, the festival offered a vibrant showcase of rich cultural heritage, featuring an array of traditional activities, games, and entertainment.

A notable highlight of this year’s festival was the introduction of kite-flying activities, a first in the history of the Afghan community inVictoria.

Kite flying holds deep cultural significance, traditionally observed during major celebrations such as Eid and Nawroz (the Afghan New Year).

Alongside this, attendees enjoyed a variety of other engaging activities including the eggcrushing game, jumping castle, face painting, Henna, marble games, carom board, chess, and more.

As the afternoon progressed, the crowd was treated to live music performances while also taking the opportunity to explore the exhibition on display.

This exhibition featured a compelling collection of portraits, painted two years prior by local artists, under the poignant theme of“Lest We Forget Afghanistan”.

It served as a heartfelt tribute to the sacrifices made by the veterans and the resilient people of Afghanistan.

The festival also welcomed guests, including Narre Warren North MP Belinda Wilson, Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas, Greater Dandenong mayor Lana Formoso, La Trobe MP Jason Wood, and representatives from various community organisations. Market stand.

Breaking point: Berwick businesses hit by crime

From page 1

Local police are hard at work investigating the break-ins, of which they have received four reports between 21 February and 27 March 2024 on the northern side of High Street.

While they recommend not keeping cash on the premises after hours and securing the store as measures to improve security, for stores such as Harry’s and Stylemaker & Co, who already have their own cameras and alarms installed, this has simply not been enough.

City of Casey manager for connected communities, Callum Pattie, stresses that “council does not currently fund, install or operate CCTV in public areas, such as shopping strips, parks, playgrounds, reserves, walking paths, car parks or on residential streets and roads”.

And that “there currently is no legislation that requires council to install CCTV in public spaces.”

Mr Pattie also claims that “there are simple, practical and cost-effective strategies business owners to take to safeguard their business and property”.

“These include training staff in security procedures, keeping things locked up, installing your own cameras, alarms and signs and getting to know your business neighbours.”

However, Harry firmly believes that “there’s enough money coming out in rates from businesses around the area to support [cameras].”

“It is time to put security cameras up around the place,” he added.

“Especially in popular areas where the restaurant precinct is, because people are coming out late at night.

“And during the winter months, when it’s pitch black by around six o’clock, the workers, particularly women, who are working late in the beauty industries, are having to walk through dark car parks, where a lot of the lights are currently out.

“When they built the building I’m in, they had cameras, and quite good ones, because it was at the back of a bank. But over the years, the cameras have not been monitored and they have since died.

“I suggested I monitor the cameras, because I’m here seven days a week, but that didn’t happen.”

And Harry is well aware that the job of monitoring such CCTV footage is not the council’s responsibility, nor does he expect it to be.

Rather, he hopes the council can assist them in providing the cameras, and authorising access for the local business affected to certain CCTV spots that they otherwise do not have permission to access, a sentiment that is shared by Kellie at Billy Lidz who believes perpetrators are “targeting where they can’t be seen”.

“I strongly believe businesses need to look after themselves as well,” Harry said.

“In this area, we need to get everyone together and organise to have cameras placed in certain, crucial positions.

“If we can get council to support it by contributing cameras and providing us access to certain spots, then we would be happy to do our own monitoring, without adding an extra burden to them.

“We have a number of businesses who have cameras and are trying to pick up number plates, so we are active, but to get ideal coverage, we need council’s permission.”

‘Absolutely buzzing’: Eid Chand Raat brightens night

A second Eid Chand Raat held by small business Mannat’s Collection hit Clyde on Tuesday 9 April, following its successful leg in Dandenong.

More than 500 people attended the night.

The night started very busy as women, children, and families started to pour into the building to browse through the variety of dress stalls.

Girls and women came to get their henna done by the henna artists on the night.

“This is the best thing about Chand Raat festival. People can walk in and find everything they need to get ready for their Eid under one roof,” the business owner and organiser Galsum Foladi said.

“Another great benefit is that it’s a chance for the community to get together, socialise, smile, and spread laughter.

“Some families attended the event telling us they were new residents of Clyde moving from Tarneit, as it’s a developing suburb, and they absolutely enjoyed and loved their experience.

“We had mouth-watering delicious snacks and food such as gol gappay, chicken rolls, samosas, karak chai, chaat and so much more that everyone was able to enjoy after feeling tired from all the walking and shopping.”

Ms Foladi said overall it was a great vibe.

“It was absolutely buzzing,” she said.

“It was so busy that towards our pack-up time, we had to ask everyone to leave so we could pack up, and even then, some stayed behind.

“For next year we definitely plan to hold another event in the same place, but we plan to extend the hours longer until 12am.”

Narre Warren North MP Belinda Wilson.

Pictures: SUPPLIED The Bakhtar Casey Nawroz Festival 2024.

Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas.

Marketplace Berwick. 387659

Facepainting fun.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Winners all-round at Cup

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Everyone was a winner at the second annual Oyiti Foundation Cup in Dandenong on 12-13 April.

That’s how Oyiti Foundation for Multicultural Youth head Nyibil Amum described the buzz of 200 players vying for trophies at the Hoops 24/7 centre.

The aim was to promote young people’s mental health. To bring young people together and urge them to help one another.

Mental health professionals, Victoria Police and youth workers were also on hand to connect at the event.

Amum described the second staging of the event as “spectacular” – which had swelled to 25 teams from as far as NSW and masses of volunteers.

Greater Dandenong mayor Lana Formoso attended both days, including the trophy presentations.

Amum said he had to limit the number of teams due to the small venue. It was hoped to stage the tournament in the bigger Dandenong Stadium next year.

“The message is whoever comes is a winner. Rather than spending that time at home, they were spending time with other young people, keeping fully engaged with organisations.

“We’re looking forward to keeping the conversations going.”

Amum set up the Oyiti Foundation and the tournament in memory of his late son Oyiti, a talented young leader who played college basketball in the US and took his life three years ago.

Now with State Government support, the foundation runs a weekly homework club,

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basketball training and monthly mental health awareness sessions for more than 20 youths.

This year, it has launched facilitator training for sports coaches and leaders of womens groups and faith groups.

The initial intake of nine has trained with

mental health professionals in order to help young people in their midst.

“There were many people who wanted to be facilitators in the program. We had to have people go through an interview process and we chose the best.”

A

There are also plans for a podcast

mental-health professionals as guests.

· Lifeline 13 11 14

Your say on future of Berwick Village Activity Centre

For the last five weeks, residents of Casey have been able to share some fantastic ideas, possible opportunities and help shape the future of Berwick Village Activity Centre.

The feedback will feed into updating the existing Berwick Structure Plan (2011). Structure plans outline how an area will grow and develop in the future based on community goals, background research and policies.

In line with a strategic objective of the Council Plan 2021-25, Casey aims to deliver sustainable infrastructure and activate spaces that cater to our community’s needs.

The community’s observations, creative ideas, and feedback will be crucial in helping Council to shape a plan that aligns with the Long-Term CommunityVision 2031, which is to become a more connected, bold and resilient community.

City of Casey Chair of Administrators Noelene Duff PSM said Council is eager to work closely with the community to ensure the

structure plan is future-proof for years to come.

“Berwick Village Activity Centre is much loved by the community. It is an area we are extremely lucky to have in Casey, with its unique village character, active community and a number of independent businesses,’’ she said.

“We want to be able to provide our residents with the best experience possible whilst utilising the space appropriately and maintaining the village charm to be enjoyed by our generation and beyond.

“Our community is the heart of Berwick Village so it is important we hear all about the opportunities, issues and fantastic ideas from those who use the space which will help Council develop the updated structure plan.’’

If you haven’t done so yet, there are various ways to have to get involved. You can find out more on the Casey Conversations page. Consultation closes onTuesday 23 April at 5.00 pm.

Residents of Casey have been able to share some fantastic ideas, possible opportunities and help shape the future of Berwick Village Activity Centre.

short doco film The Voice on the training sessions is expected to be released in the next month.

featuring

Oyiti Foundation’s Rotor Ogwop and Nyibil Amum with some of the trophies. 399851

A Longhorns player from Sunshine. 399851

A player from the Dandenong-based Red Roo side warms up during the Oyiti Cup. 399851 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

Join

at Arthur Wren Hall to commemorate the lives lost in the service of Australia. For all enquiries please reach out to the Hampton Park Progress Association.

· Thursday 25 April, 6am, Arthur Wren Hall, 1620 Stuart Ave, Hampton Park. Light refreshments provided. Please arrive before 5.45am Casey Cardinia Heritage Festival Community members across Casey and Cardinia are invited to come along to the 2024 Casey Cardinia Heritage Festival. This free event will feature various information stalls from local historical community groups, book sales, live music, and entertainment for all.

A Devonshire tea will also be available for purchase for $2.50.

This event is proudly delivered by Connected Libraries and Myli (My Community Library) and supported by the City of Casey.

· 10am to 2pm, Sunday 21 April, Berwick Senior Citizens Centre.

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.

· Saturday and Sunday, 20 and 21 April.

Holi ‘The Festival of Colours’ Lynbrook

The Lynbrook Residents Association is very proud to present Lynbrook’s most colourful event. Free entry - all welcome.

Plain white clothing shows the colour best (plain black also works well.) Please note: Colour may not fully wash out so don’t wear your best threads. Bags of colour (100g) $3 each. There will be about 20 market stalls at this event too! Come have some retail therapy with us and support local small businesses.

· The Holi Festival of Colours is on Saturday 27 April, 12pm to 5.30pm.

Spellbound - A Night of Magic and Illusion

Get ready for a spectacular night of Magic and Grand Illusion with one of Australia’s leading Illusionists, Anthony Street.

The Star and producer of the stage phenomenon, Celtic Illusion will be touring his Grand Illusion show in 2024.

Witness levitations, impossible vanishes, mentalism and a death-defying escape as Anthony pushes the boundaries of reality and distorts your senses. With his unique & edgy style performing one of the oldest of art forms, Anthony will enthrall and astonish you, and keep you on the edge of your seat.

With magic and thrills suitable for all ages, this family-friendly show will leave you wondering: Will you dare to believe your eyes?

Sunday 28 April, 7.30pm - 9.15pm, Bunjil Place, Narre Warren

· For tickets, go to bunjilplace.com.au/events/ spellbound-a-night-of-magic-grand-illusion

In Conversation with Julie Goodwin

The 2009 debut season of Masterchef introduced millions of Australians to Julie Goodwin. She battled through cooking challenges and was ultimately crowned the first-ever winner of Masterchef Australia. Your Time Starts Now is the brutally honest and soul-baring memoir of a woman who won hearts across the nation, who lived many highs and many lows, often in the public domain. Book sales and signings will be available on the night. Wednesday 8 May, 7pm to 8.30pm, Bunjil Place Library

This is a free event, but bookings are essential.

· To book, visit: events.connectedlibraries.org. au/event?id=61009

Clothes Swap Berwick Neighbourhood Centre

Time to clean out the closet? Got some good quality clothing that could be swapped? Then check out the first Berwick Neighbourhood Clothes swap. Donate up to five good quality items prior to the swap date on Friday 26 April from 6.30 - 8.30pm at the Timbarra Community Centre 20-26 Parkhill Drive in the Multipurpose room. Donation items can be women, men’s, children’s clothing

Donation of items can occur on the following

dates Tuesday 16 April between 11am -1pm, Wednesday 17 April 11am- 1pm Thursday 18 April 12pm-2pm. Each donated item will result in a token been given to be used at the clothes swap event.

· For more details call 9704 1863 or email admin@berwicknc.com.au

Women’s group Berwick Neighbourhood Centre

Bring your own craft, bring your latest read or just bring yourself. Pop in for a chat. See what is happening at the centre. Have a cuppa and relax for a moment or two.

Commencing Monday from 12.30-2pm Community room. Timbarra Community Centre, 20-26 Parkhill Drive off Timbarra Way in Berwick.

· For more details call 9704 1863 or email admin@berwicknc.com.au

Casey Connect and Learn Welcome Week - Balla Balla Community Centre

Casey Connect and Learn is excited to announce Welcome Week, a week-long celebration of community, lifelong learning, and connection. From 13 to 19 May, our centres throughout the City of Casey will be hosting a series of activities that highlight the diverse range of classes and activities we offer.

· For an event calendar and additional information about our Welcome Week activities, please visit our website at caseyconnectlearn. com.au/welcomeweek. Stay connected and be the first to know about upcoming events by following us on social media @caseyconnectlearn 13 to 19 May

BADFolk Club

Berwick and District Folkclub have been meeting at the Old Cheese Factory in Berwick for the past 21 years! We meet on the third Friday of each month. This month we welcome back Maria Forde - she is a classic folk singer and has written some great songs like ’Will You Dance with Me’ which is often played at weddings. We also welcome spot acts - anyone who can play an instrument, sing, share a poem etc. Please note our earlier running times: Doors now open 6:30 and the music runs 7-10pm.

Our kitchen sells snack food and a variety of drinks - tea/coffee/wine/beer/soft drinks. Entry: $15. Website: badfolkclub.org Contact: Edward:

0418 535 264.

· Meet on the third Friday of each month.

Biggest Morning Tea

The Woodlands Park Retirement Village in Berwick is again raising money for its Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea event, which will contribute to raffles, door prizes and auction prizes available on the day and towards cancer research. Resident Colleen Astbury has organised three events towards the initiative, raising a total of $22,486 towards the Cancer Council.

· For more information or to donate, visit biggestmorningtea.com.au/fundraisers/ColleenAstbury or contact Colleen on 0422 849 619.

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.

Narre Warren Senior Citizens Centre

If you are over 55 years old, newly retired, or new to the Casey area and looking for something to do, come and join us. Narre Warren Seniors is a friendly Club and we can offer you many activities. Our main Club day is on Wednesdays from 9.30am to 3pm. On the first Wednesday of the month we enjoy socialising with our members and, on the next three (3) Wednesdays we have live entertainment wherein you can do some line-dancing if you wish and enjoy an afternoon cup of tea. There are also weekly activities on other days of the week, which include the Garden Group Club, Indoor Carpet Bowls, Line Dancing, Table Tennis, friendly Card games, and a Gentle Exercise class.

· We are located at 192-196 Centre Road near the Narre Warren Station. Phone us at 9704 0015 or 0426 736 467 or email us at: narrewarrenseniors@gmail.com for more information.

Phone Bruce at BRK Landscaping 0409 554 459

Email: brklandscaping@bigpond.com

SPORT Eagles third-quarter blitz

By David Nagel

Beaconsfield is one of three teams that remain undefeated in Eastern Division One football after the Eagles scored a seven-point victory over North Ringwood at Quambee Reserve on Saturday.

The Eagles trailed at the first two breaks, by seven and five points respectively, but produced four unanswered goals in a matchbreaking six-goal third quarter to set up their 12.10(82) to 10.15(75) triumph.

The visitors dodged a few bullets in the first half; and were lucky to be down by only five points after the Saints wasted several opportunities to increase their margin.

But it took just 15 seconds of the third quarter for two big-name recruits - Nathan Wright and Charlie Muley - to impact the game and get the contest on Beaconsfield’s terms.

Quick hands from Wright to Muley - who converted calmly from 30 out - gave the Eagles the lead, before Aaron Fenton provided the Saints with the quick answer.

Wright and Muley then had a direct hand in the first of the four consecutive goals; that proved the difference in the end for Mick Fogarty’s men.

Wright won a tough clearance, with a tumbling kick falling in the arms of Muley, who played on quickly and found Jafar Ocaa alone on the run in the goal-square.

Ocaa’s goal gave the Eagles a boost in his first game back since breaking his leg last year.

Damien Johnston then kicked a clever goal in traffic, before new small forward Mackay Bateson laid a very strong tackle and goaled from the resulting free kick.

Ocaa then found Josh Mounter, who found space just metres from goal, and the Eagles had opened up a handy 19-point lead.

North Ringwood then kicked two of the last three goals of an enterprising third stanza, and cut the margin to just eight points early in the last.

Ocaa then kicked a great goal from the boundary, before Hayden Brough sealed the deal with a clever goal off his non-preferred left foot.

Brough, Muley and Ocaa all kicked two each for the winners, who were provided with great drive from the likes of Kobe Shipp, Devon Smith, Sam Merrick; and Johnston andWright.

Ocaa was also impressive, and impactful, in his first run back from a spell.

The Eagles host Mooroolbark this Saturday at Holm Park Reserve.

NORTH RINGWOOD

2.4

4.10 7.13 10.15(75)

BEACONSFIELD

1.3

4.5

10.9 12.10(82)

North Ringwood Goals: Luke Patterson 3, Matthew Sheppard 2, Jayden Van Unen 2, Aaron Fenton, Ben Livingstone, Peter Rozanitis. Best: Ben Livingstone, Matthew Sheppard, Luke Patterson, Aaron Fenton, Michael Locco, Jayden Van Unen.

Beaconsfield Goals: Hayden Brough 2, Charlie Muley2,JafarOcaa2,MackayBateson,Hayden Brown, Harrison Coe, Damien Johnston, Sam Merrick, Joshua Mounter. Best: Kobe Shipp, Nathan Wright, Damien Johnston, Jafar Ocaa, Sam Merrick, Devon Smith.

LadderR2: Montrose, Park Orchards, Beaconsfield 8, North Ringwood, South Belgrave, Mitcham, Bayswater, 4,Wantirna South, Mooroolbark, Doncaster 0.

Fixture R3: Beaconsfield v Mooroolbark, Bayswater v Wantirna South, Doncaster v South Belgrave, Montrose v Mitcham, North Ringwood v Park Orchards.

Demons win a VNL thriller

In a heart-stopping clash in round six of the Victorian Netball League; Casey Demons emerged victorious by the narrowest of margins, defeating newcomers Bendigo Strikers by just one goal after the final siren.

It was a match filled with twists and turns, showcasing the competitive spirit and resilience of both teams.

Earlier in the evening, the Casey Demons 23 and Under side set the stage for their senior counterparts with a commanding performance, securing a steady 10-goal win over the Strikers.

This victory laid a solid foundation for the club, indicating their depth and talent in the younger age group.

However, it was the Championship match that truly stole the spotlight, as fans witnessed a seesaw battle between the Demons and the determined Bendigo side.

From the outset, it was evident that neither team would yield easily, setting the stage for a thrilling contest.

In the first half, the Demons exhibited their prowess in attack, efficiently manoeuvring the ball through the court and capitalising on opportunities in the goal circle.

Sacha McDonald, a reliable target at Goal Shooter, combined seamlessly with sharpshooter Sinead Lumsden, whose accuracy on long shots kept the scoreboard ticking.

As the game progressed, Casey Demons faced stiff resistance from the Bendigo outfit, who refused to let the lead slip away.

Despite their best efforts, the Demons found it challenging to extend their advantage, with Bendigo matching them stride for stride.

Halftime saw a strategic shift from the Demons, with Emma Ryde entering the fray at Goal Shooter and Tayla Honey taking up the Wing Attack position.

This tactical adjustment injected fresh energy into the team, as they sought to break the deadlock in the second half.

Led by the steady hand of Sarah McCabe in Centre, the Demons increased their conversion rate from centre passes, aiming to gain a decisive edge over their opponents.

With the clock ticking down and tensions

running high, the final moments of the game delivered a dramatic climax.

With just 48 seconds remaining in the final quarter, the Demons found themselves in possession of the ball, desperately seeking to secure victory.

In a nail-biting sequence of play, the ball exchanged hands multiple times before a crucial contact on the siren awarded the Demons a precious opportunity.

With nerves of steel, Sinead Lumsden stepped up to the challenge, sinking the decisive goal and clinching a hard-fought victory for her team.

Looking ahead to Round 8, the 23 and Under side of Casey Demons will face off against the Gippsland Stars in what promises to be another exciting encounter.

Meanwhile, the Championship side and their dedicated support crew can relish a welldeserved break after a thrilling match.

-Rebekah Bogos-

Casey begins with a bang

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Casey’s men have started their season with a morale-boosting 3-1 win over La Trobe University.

Following a difficult season in Vic League 1 last year, the Cannons brought in a series of players during the offseason, while early signs indicate several incumbents have taken a step forward.

Emerging talent Charlie Coster led the way, while midfielder Tristan Chaffey, returning to the club after playing hockey at a higher level, scored a third quarter goal and provided drive in an excellent showing.

Josh Watson opened proceedings, scoring from a short corner in the first quarter which immediately put scoreboard pressure on at Beacon Hills, before Chaffey’s goal gave the Cannons brief breathing space.

La Trobe University pegged one back late in the third quarter, setting the scene for a tense final stanza, until David Noney capitalised on a turnover to set up club stalwart and skipper Craig Moore for the late match-sealer.

Stepping up in the absence of the injured Adam Wadley, goal-keeper Alan McDonald made a series of important saves in an enjoyable cameo in the firsts, while the disciplined Cam Ritchie organised the defence well and was supported by Satpal Singh.

Coach Steve Noney was pleased with the way his men connected in their first official game together.

“It was very important to start the season in a positive manner and we were pretty happy with how we played and ran it out,” Noney said.

“It’s about getting the cohesion with the guys and understanding their movements and positioning which will only get better but that started really well.”

It was an excellent day for the men’s

unit as a whole, with the seconds and thirds also recording wins.

It was the youngsters and recruits who led the way, with Adam Hedger, Tadhg McCurran, Austin Jacob and Prince Achandira all contributing in the seconds in their first game, while Alfie Ray made a series of clutch saves in the thirds’ 2-0 win. Their progression, coupled with several players returning from injury in the coming weeks looks set to further strengthen the men’s unit, with their next assignment against St Bede’s, which started the season with a draw

Meanwhile, the women started their season with a 4-1 loss to Geelong and face a tough task against Monash University on Sunday afternoon.

Poppy Douglass providing great drive for the Casey Demons from Wing Attack. 402009

Picture: SUPPLIED

Casey’s Charlie Coster has picked up from where he left off. 343183

Picture: GARY SISSONS

Jafar Ocaa made an exciting return from injury for Beaconsfield on Saturday. 328967

Picture: GARY SISSONS

SPORT Brookers dig the deepest

By Marcus Uhe

It was a win full of heart, determination and character.

For much of Gembrook Cockatoo’s season opener against Berwick Springs in round one of Outer East Football Netball on Saturday, it looked as though theTitans would be celebrating a maiden win in the club’s first ever contest of Premier Division football on its home ground.

When Jett Kearney kicked his third goal of the afternoon and the third on the bounce for his side, after theTitans’ defensive press forced yet another turnover in the Brookers’ back half late in the third term, the margin had reached a game high 25 points as Michael Firrito’s side looked out of answers.

Myles Wareham kicked the final goal of the term to give Gembrook Cockatoo a sniff, before Firrito rallied the troops at the final huddle.

In his first contest as senior coach, Firrito, who put the boots back on after announcing his retirement at the end of last season, described his side and having been “passive” and “reactive” for much of the afternoon.

With the margin within reach at three quarter time at 20 points, it was time to throw caution to the wind.

“I felt like we played most of the first three quarters in the back 50,” Firrito said.

“We were like a boxer taking hits.

“In that last quarter I asked for a response and we played the majority of the game in our (forward) 50 and they were the ones that were on the back foot, chipping the ball around, trying to buy some time and out on their legs.”

Firrito had preached a Summer of fitness and running during his first preseason in charge and expected it to be a strength of his side in 2024.

With his assistant coach in former Berwick premiership captain Michael Harold running the fitness regime, round one presented the ideal chance to prove their credentials and show that a gruelling Summer was worth every sprint, time trial and shuttle run.

Out went the slow, considered approach from the back half with their ball movement and in came run, risk and dare.

Two goals in the opening three minutes signalled their intent, and told the Titans to switch on.

Aaron Firrito looked to make it three in four minutes, emerging through the front of the stoppage with the Sherrin tucked under his arm and with his sights set on the big sticks,

but hit the post with a running shot from just inside the 40 metre arc.

While the attempt failed to yield the maximum result, it was clear that the Titans needed a breather and some time in possession.

Berwick Springs elected to take some heat out of the contest and initiate slow play, halting the green and white wave bearing down on them like the gloomy grey clouds overhead at Mick Morland Reserve.

A 10 minute arm wrestle for ascendency was eventually snapped by the Brookers, who cut the lead to just two points at the 16 minute mark.

Debutant, Corey Phillips’ vice grip on a tough mark at centre half back after a kick out brought runners and speed on the ball, as the aggressive approach found a way through the Berwick Springs zone and into the waiting hands of Joel Firrito deep in the forward line for his third major.

Now within a kick of the lead, it appeared the Titans were out of options.

Their back six played like a cohesive unit all day despite lacking continuity and experience playing together, welcoming Cameron Miller, Brodie McConnell and Matt Soutter-Smith to a quality mix behind the footy including Riley Hillman, Jayden Malek and Brodie Worland.

For much of the afternoon they had the an-

swers, but found themselves at sixes and sevens in face of the late charge from Gembrook Cockatoo.

A Warlond turnover deep in defence was intercepted by Callum Bourne, and the resulting 25 metre penalty following a collision with Kayden Buseli after the mark was taken, advanced him to within striking distance.

He made no mistake with the kick, and somehow, 22 minutes into the final term, the Brookers had their noses in front.

The count up clock on the electronic scoreboard ensured an element of ambiguity and suspense, with the players as unsure as the captivated and bewildered spectators as to how long remained for the Brookers to hold on, and for Berwick Springs to hit back.

The Titans won the next centre clearance but missed a chance in front of goal to make the most of the inside 50.

Within a minute, Wareham was celebrating a fourth major, having watched his teammates penetrate the press with ease and capitalising out the back in a bevy of open space.

Eight points was where the margin settled, 10.8 68 to 8.12 60, with four points going into the all-important points column on the table.

“Everyone wants to get off to a good start, but I guess the manor that we did it in probably make us even more proud,”

Michael Firrito said.

“(It was) a game that we weren’t able to get on our terms but we found a way to get back.

“One of the things I said to our guys was, you can never have the game on your terms for 100 per cent of the time, there’s going to be ebbs and flows.

“It’s all fine and well when everything’s going rosey to think you’re strong of character, but generally it’s when times are tough and the chips are down and your backs are against the wall where you really find out what the individuals and the group is like.

“It could have gone one of two ways, we could have lost by 40 points or we could put ourselves in a position to win.

“The result speaks volumes of what I think of the group and what the group is.”

Led by Michael Misso on club debut, the Titans had the upper hand in the midfield battle for much of the afternoon and took control of the contest in the third term during a run of three consecutive goals.

Despite the absence of star pair Chris Johnson (personal reasons) and Hayden Stagg (injury) they were winning the clearance battle and locking the ball in the forward 50, leading to repeat shots on goal and mounting pressure on the Brookers’ backs.

For much of the third quarter, the route to goal looked barren for the Brookers, outside of a classy snap out of a stoppage from Joel Firrito.

Patrick Snoxall wore a heavy hit for his side late in the third that gifted Wareham his second of the afternoon and drew a response from his teammates, unhappy with the treatment from Misso.

The first half was a grind for both sides, still fighting early season jitters and committing a number of skill errors.

The Titans scored seven consecutive behinds in the second term, unable to capitalise on their dominance as Gembrook Cockatoo plugged holes in the back half.

From considerably less chances, Joshua Tilly kicked a crucial steadier for his side to break the deadlock, in what was the only goal of the period.

Berwick Springs will no doubt rue what could have been, but the Brookers were fully deserving of the four points.

Tilly and DamienVolta looked a class above in the midfield for Gembrook Cockatoo, while Joel Firrito finished with three goals.

Misso, Kearney, Justin Markulija and Rhys Fletcher were among the best for Berwick Springs.

History made with official opening of new netball league

By Marcus Uhe

Months of planning, meetings and organisation behind the scenes finally materialised into on-court netball action for all involved in the creation of the South East Netball League on Saturday as the competition’s first ever round was played.

There were smiles all round, both on the courts and off, as the project finally came to life.

League President Lani Mannays was delighted to see the action on the court, and a bounty of hard work finally come to fruition, as Berwick and Beaconsfield went toeto-toe in a ‘Battle of the Creek’ in one of the contests.

“We (Berwick) played Beaconsfield on the weekend and to see Dean (Ziesler), that we worked really closely with, he and I were smiling ear to ear because we actually did it, and so many said we wouldn’t get it done, and we did,” Mannays said.

“I’m just so rapt that it’s actually happened.

“We haven’t got heaps of teams but the teams we have got have really enjoyed having home-and-away netball with their footy, and having our own competition the way we wanted to have it run, which is phenomenal.

“Everyone had an absolute ball and it was so good.”

Michael Firrito sticks a critical contested mark in the dying stages of Gembrook Cockatoo’s win over Berwick Springs. 400991

Picture: ROB CAREW

Casey Fields.

The facility, opened on Wednesday 10 April, will be home to the Club’s elite Men’s and Women’s teams, six Academy teams, and Administration department; as well as hosting the Club’s registered charity, City in the Community, and grassroots program, the Melbourne City Football School.

The facility has everything a professional athlete could ask for, including 16 change rooms, hot and cold hydrotherapy pools, two gyms, community classrooms, a 60-seat the-

atrette and extensive sports medicine, sports science, and administration spaces, with parallels between facilities drawn to some of the biggest clubs in world football, such as Manchester City FC and New York City FC.

Two and a half grass pitches and three synthetic fields, meanwhile, will give players ample space to hone their craft.

Casual community use will also be allocated to not-for-profit organisations, local football clubs, schools, and commercial groups from across the City of Casey and surrounding municipalities.

Chief Executive of Melbourne City FC Brad Rowse said the club is “setting new standards

for football in Australia.”

“The facility leads the way in Australian football, bringing together our Men’s, Women’s, Academy, and Administration teams under the one roof, and allowing us to train, share ideas and challenge each other every day,” Rowse said.

“We pride ourselves on being an innovative Club that has a positive impact on our local community, and with thousands of family homes now on our doorstep, we look forward to welcoming people from across Melbourne and the South-East to Casey Fields to experience the City Football Academy themselves.”

The City of Casey contributed two thirds of

the funding towards the $18.7 million facility.

City of Casey Chair of Administrators Noelene Duff said Council’s partnership with Melbourne City FC will allow residents to engage with the Club via football pathways, leadership development programs and participation in community programs.

“Many in our community absolutely love the round ball game,” Duff said.

“I am looking forward to seeing our young people from the City of Casey’s local football clubs, schools and neighbouring suburbs enjoying this facility side-by-side with some of Australia’s best and brightest players and coaches.”

(L-R) Melbourne City FC Chief Executive, Brad Rowse, City of Casey Chief Executive, Glenn Patterson; Melbourne City FC Vice Chairman, Simon Pearce, City of Casey Chair of Administrators, Noelene Duff, and City of Casey Administrator, Cameron Boardman at the opening of the City Football Academy Melbourne last week.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

The facility has two and a half grass pitches and three synthetic fields.

There’s 16 change rooms in the facility, along with hydrotherapy pools, gyms and community classrooms.