News - Cranbourne Star News - 25th April 2024

SHOWCASING CASEY

Our Showcasing Casey 20 page wrap has plenty of local businesses to check out. Open up and take a look!

It’s all happening in Casey

With buzzing suburban communities, beautiful scenery and coastal towns just a short drive away, what’s not to love about the City of Casey?

While Casey residents are likely to be aware of the many perks and benefits of living in the region, this feature showcases the best aspects of life in Casey. From the great education options and local businesses to leisure services and retail sectors, Casey really has it all.

More than 411,000 people are forecast to call the City of Casey home in 2024 - up 18,000 in the past year. It is the most populous council area in the state, and that number is forecast to hit 574,124 in 2046, a staggering 40 per cent increase.

Over the next 18 years, 54 per cent of Casey’s population growth will occur in Clyde and Clyde North.

In 2022, 45 per cent of Casey households were couples with children – compared to 33 per cent in greater Melbourne.

The council area is one of the most diverse in Australia with 42 per cent of residents born overseas and spanning more than 150 nationalities. The top three overseas countries of birth are India, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan.

More than three quarters of residents have at least one parent born overseas or were born overseas themselves.

There are more than 100 faiths observed in Casey – the most common being Catholic, Islam and Hindu.

Of the region’s 185,286 employed residents, 86,995 people living in Casey were employed in the city in 2021. The largest number of people were employed in healthcare and social assistance at 15,134 jobs between 2020 and 2021.

Other main areas of employment are retail trade at 14,331, education and training at 12,139 and construction at 9,269.

Many of the businesses are locally owned. In 2023, there were 31,879 businesses in the City of Casey and the Gross Regional Production was $12.21 billion – about 2.4 per cent of Victoria’s GRP.

Construction was the most productive industry in the City of Casey between 2020-2021, generating $1,268 million.

GARDENS AND OUTDOOR DESTINATIONS

The City of Casey has an abundance of parks, playgrounds and open spaces to enjoy.

Whether you visit the 1001 Steps at Bayview Park in Narre Warren South, Wilson Botanic Park in Berwick, Akoonah Park Centre, Royal Botanic Gardens in Cranbourne or the Hallam Valley Trail, you’ll have a myriad of options to choose from. From family friendly to physical activities, the City of Casey has all you need.

ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS CRANBOURNE

Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne offers a natural bushland experience alongside the Australian Garden, an award-winning, contemporary botanic garden of over 100,000 Australian plants from 1,900 plant varieties.

The bushland is a precious remnant of the area’s vegetation, with 10 kilometres of walking tracks, six kilometres of cycling tracks, a lookout tower, picturesque shelters, barbecues and playgrounds.

There is a range of visitor programs, as well as self-guided walks available throughout the year. And entry is free.

WILSON BOTANIC PARK BERWICK

In its vast 39 hectares, the park has more than 1000 native and exotic plant species. It attracts 80 different species of birds as well as turtles, frogs, lizards and snakes.

The picnic areas and barbecue facilities, playground and walking tracks make this park a popular attraction.

Bird watchers use the Birdhide on the edge of the Basalt Lake as the perfect cover to see some of the vast array of native wildlife.

EDUCATION

The City of Casey has a network of great education options that include Catholic schools such as St Margaret’s Berwick Grammar, St Catherine’s Primary School in Berwick, Mary MacKillop Primary School in Narre Warren and St Paul Apostle North and South Primary Schools in Endeavour Hills.

The City of Casey also has a range of government schools on offer to parents with the catchment area. These include James Cook

Primary School, Oatlands Primary School, Berwick Lodge Primary School and Cranbourne Park Primary School.

Secondary students also have a variety of education options, including Casey Grammar School, St Francis Xavier College Berwick, Beaconhills Christian College, Heritage College, Hampton Park Secondary College and Alkira Secondary College.

The City of Casey is also fortunate to have Dandenong Valley SDS,a school dedicated to students aged from pre school to 18 years with intellectual disabilities. The purposebuilt school caters for every one’s needs, with various play areas including a bike track, sensory rooms and outdoor spaces, multipurpose rooms, paramed offices,a hydrotherapy room and a range of therapists on hand.

Endeavour Hills Specialist School opened in 2022. It caters for up to 288 students with learning neighbourhoods for early years, middle years and senior years, a dry lab for media, drama and physical activities and a wet lab for art, science, home-craft and technology.

The state-of-the-art facility also has a gymnasium, full-size outdoor play court and soccer pitch.

SPORT

The City of Casey has long been a hub of sporting activity in Melbourne’s southeast.

Casey Fields is the region’s premier sports and recreation precinct, home to Melbourne City Football Club and the Melbourne Demons AFL/AFLW teams. It also regularly hosts cricket, rugby, athletics and BMX events televised nationally. Boasting more than 30 fields, tracks and courts across its 87 hectares, there is also a dedicated train station in the works for Casey Fields as a part of the Clyde Rail extension.

This month, Melbourne City unveiled an $18.7 million state-of-the-art soccer academy at the precinct. The City of Casey contributed $12.3 million towards the 11-hectare facility, which boasts two-and-a-half grass pitches, three synthetic fields, 16 changerooms, a 60seat theatrette, hot and cold hydrotherapy pools, two gyms, community classrooms, and extensive sports medicine, sports science, and administration spaces.

Meanwhile, Casey Fields’ athletic track received a $1-million-plus resurfacing.

In its 2024-’25 draft budget, Casey proposes $8.6 million for Springleaf Recreation Reserve, an AFL, cricket and netball facility in Clyde North. It also plans upgrades for pavilions at Tooradin, Strathaird Reserve, Ray Bastin Reserve and Grices Road Recreation Reserve.

Paul Hamilton with one of his exhibit pygmy goats at the Berwick Show. 390798

Picture: GARY SISSONS

Mitchell White gets a kick away for Casey Demons in a VFL clash at Casey Fields. 296136

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Bandicoots put on a show about the threatened marsupial at Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne. 362327

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

FOCUS ON … SHOWCASING CASEY

Prisha, 7, twists into hoola hoops at Casey Kids Carnival. 399019

Picture: ROB CAREW

Lisa, Ella and Amelia from Botanic Ridge making bandicoots at Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne. 362327 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Aseel Tayah sings at a Bukjeh ‘Hakaya’ event at Bunjil Place. 334046

Picture: ROB CAREW A Pacific black duck - one of 800 bird species at Wilson Botanic Park, Berwick. 391102 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

The last rays of Sunshine. 392215

Bagadencak Minang Saiyo - one of many groups that perform at Bunjil Place. 334046

Picture: ROB CAREW

Jacky Dragon Lizard on a tree at Cranbourne Botanical Gardens. 375315

Picture: GARY SISSONS

Avtar Saini, Baljeet Singh Sandhu, Maree Cullinan and Harbhagwan Dass enjoy a Harmony Day

celebration at Balla Balla Community Centre. 389986

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Aisha, 11, at Southern Cross Primary School’s Harmony Day event. 389242

Picture: LJUBICA VRANKOVIC

FOCUS ON … SHOWCASING CASEY

Eye for detail

Pakenham and Berwick optometrist OPSM is offering high-quality service and products to its customers. Products and services on offer include comprehensive eye testing; contact lens fitting; tests for glaucoma, macular degeneration and diabetes; children’s eye exams and optical corrections; a wide range of glasses for every budget with premium quality frames and lenses and world renowned brands and services.

Local optometrist Theo Charalambous said he and his team aim to make their clients look amazing.

“We love to enhance how locals see the world,“ he said.

“We treat all of our clients like family and make sure we look out for any potentially threatening eye conditions and tailor solutions for visual needs.

“We take pride when we see our frames around town enhancing quality of life and also fashionable accessories.“

Mr Charalambous said the team supports the nearby area.

“As a franchise we are uniquely able to offer the world best practice, product and service with a local team who love what they do,“ he said.

“We live and breathe local, and ownership is local.

“We participate in free local school screenings and identify eye concerns before they become an issue for education,“ he said.

OPSM Berwick and Pakenham’s opening hours are 9am to 5.30pm Mondays toWednesdays and Fridays, 9am to 7.30pm Thursdays and 9am to 3pm Saturdays.

Embrace the change

As a local physiotherapist and a passionate advocate for women’s health, I am excited to announce an upcoming seminar aimed at providing education and strategies to empower women in our community. The seminar, scheduled for Wednesday May 8 at 1:30pm at the Balla Balla Community Centre, will focus on managing the mental and physical changes that occur during and after menopause.

The idea for this seminar arose from my observations of an increasing number of post-menopausal issues among my clients, including osteoporosis, hip pain, and prolapse.

Additionally, many women were reporting mental health issues such as stress, depression, anxiety, and poor sleep, which were significantly impacting their quality of life.

To address these issues, I have collaborated with other local allied health professionals, including Angela Scanlon, an experienced counselling psychologist, and Megan D’Atri, an experienced exercise physiologist. Together, we will provide women with information and advice on preventing and managing pelvic floor issues, including incontinence and prolapse. We will also discuss safe exercising to prevent and reduce osteoporosis, as well as strategies to manage mental health issues.

To ensure that the seminar is accessible to everyone, Be Your Best Physiotherapy is sponsoring the event, and entry is free. However, bookings are essential and can be made by phone at (03) 5996 2693 or online at www.trybooking.com/CQBCK.

Following the seminar, there will be a free afternoon tea, providing an opportunity for attendees to share their menopause and post-menopause experiences and to ask questions of the presenters. This event promises to be informative, empowering, and supportive, and I encourage all local women to attend and take charge of their health and well-being.

Michelle Crowther

· BeYour Best Physiotherapy

· (03) 5996 2693

Michelle Crowther - Be Your Best Physiotherapy.

The team at OPSM Berwick - Tina, Theo and Monica. 377922

FOCUS ON … SHOWCASING CASEY

New York Barbers celebrates 10 years in business.

Barbers mark a decade

This year, New York Barbers in Berwick has reached the 10 year milestone since opening their doors in February 2014. New York Barbers started out from humble beginnings on Kempson Walk in Berwick with a 5 chair barbershop.

After outgrowing their original location, they moved down the road, to Adams Lane, creating a state-of-the-art 10 chair barbershop and cafe that has flourished into the thriving barbershop it is today and become a stalwart in the community.

Over the years New York Barbers have obtained accolades in the Australian Modern Barber Awards such as the Australian Modern Barber Business of theYear in 2021, 2022 and 2023 as well as Best Barbershop Design in 2021.

New York Barbers expresses gratitude to the community for their steadfast support over the past decade and acknowledges the invaluable contributions of its team members, whose commitment has been instrumental in shaping the barbershop’s success.

All students are known

St Therese’s School is one of the smallest primary schools in the Cranbourne area which allows the staff to proudly share that‘every name is known’. We welcome diversity, with students attending the school from a wide range of cultures.

Differences are embraced to create an inclusive school, rich from learning from one another. From the very first moment a child enters the school, they are invited to encounter God through interactions with students and staff within a calm and nurturing environment. St Therese’s School takes their motto from their patron saint, Saint Therese of Lisieux, ‘Do all that you do with love’, and strives to ensure that each student grows in faith to be understanding and respectful of one another.

Teachers at St Therese’s are focused on ensuring each child learns fundamental English and Mathematics skills to prepare them for their future. In addition, the school offers rich and diverse learning opportunities that include weekly classes in Visual Arts, Physical Education, Japanese and a Digital and Design Technologies program.

At St Therese’s Catholic community we envisage a school where:

· An individual’s personal relationship with Jesus is nurtured within the tradition of a Catholic community that is prayerful, accepting and loving.

· The wellbeing of each member is nurtured through building positive relationships and respecting the dignity and talents of individuals.

10 YEARS CELEBRATING

The school’s motto is ‘Do all that you do with love’.

· We are successful learners. Our school is a safe, harmonious and engaging learning environment. Everyone works together cooperatively and is responsible for their learning.

St Therese’s aims to develop a partnership between parents, teachers, children and the wider community, all working together. We are committed to connecting with the local community including our neighbour Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre.

To learn more about what St Therese’s has to offer, contact the school on 5996 7525 to book a personalised tour, or visit the school’s website

www.sttcbourne.catholic.edu.au

We look forward to welcoming you and your family to St Therese’s Primary School.

Principal: Felicity Broughton

131 Endeavour Dr Cranbourne North VIC 3977

Program driving success

St Francis Xavier College announces the launch of its select entry Advanced Academic Achievement Program (AAA Program), set to commence in 2025. This groundbreaking program aims to cater to high achieving Year 7 students, providing an enriched academic environment that promises to nurture their intellectual capacities to the fullest.

The AAA Program is designed as an academic enrichment initiative, offering students a unique opportunity to broaden their knowl-

edge and skills across various disciplines throughout their secondary education. Participants will be immersed in an environment that encourages critical thinking, creativity, and innovation.

Students enrolled in the AAA Program can look forward to engaging in a variety of stimulating activities, including participation in national subject competitions, Debating, and the Tournament of the Minds. Furthermore, the program does not limit students’ involve-

ment in the college’s extra curricula offerings. Participants will have full access to an array of activities ranging from Performing Arts to sports, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience.

Admission into the AAA Program will be competitive, based primarily on academic merit. Prospective students are required to demonstrate their capabilities through an entrance examination. The College is committed to fostering a diverse group of talents, offering

a total of 56 places in its inaugural year, evenly distributed between the Berwick and Officer campuses.

Prospective families and students are encouraged to express their interest early, with a registration deadline set for May 3, 2024. This initiative represents a significant milestone for St Francis Xavier College in its ongoing commitment to excellence in education, providing a platform for gifted students to excel and achieve their full potential.

St Francis Xavier College in its ongoing commitment to excellence in education.

Supporting the community

There

fun and warmth.

It’s a place where groups can gather, and new friends can be made.

It’s a place of community, and community connection.

It’s Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House and Community Centre.

The centre opened its doors to the community as part of an open day on Saturday 20 April, welcoming people of all ages to enjoy the activities on offer.

Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House has been a local cornerstone for more than 13 years.

They are passionate about supporting the local community and are always finding new

and fresh ways to engage.

The centre runs programs for children through to seniors, with a wide variety of programs. Running six playgroup sessions a week, they often have a waitlist for this much soughtafter program.

Their playgroup program allows for children to explore and make connections in a safe environment, as well as a place for parents to connect with others in a similar life stage.

Currently, Brentwood Park partners with a local PT to run four women’s fitness programs a week, that include postpartum fitness right up to seniors fitness.

These classes have become a highlight of the women’s week.

Terrie who runs this program is so passion-

ate about helping women find themselves and be an example to their families that they as women are important.

The team is also excited to be launching a new partnership with Michelle Macpherson, a paediatric psychologist in the field of educational and developmental psychology.

Michelle will be running fortnightly sessions that are suited for families who may be on waitlists to see a psychologist, or even for families who are looking for more tools for their parenting toolbox.

As well as their own programs, Brentwood Park is used by local businesses and community groups as a venue for their programs.

This includes Berwick Bridge Club (who have just launched beginners bridge classes),

Reach out to the team if you are looking for a venue to hire!

As always, the House is open for the community to pop in and see the facilities and let theteamknowwhattheywantfromtheHouse.

If you have a skill you can share or have an interest you want to learn more about, let the team know and they will do everything they can to make it happen.

You can contact BPNH through email on admin@bpnh.org.au or through mobile on 8743 0671.

We invite you to join us for our next tour and explore our ELC, Junior School, Senior Girls and Senior Boys schools.

Please book your place via our website or using the QR code

is a little diamond hidden in Berwick South. It’s a place of

Casey Cardinia Life Activity Club along with Chess Republic teaching the next generation of chess players how to rule the world. Brentwood Park is also available for hire for private functions, in their main hall.

Cara, Jo, Veronica and Brooke from Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House. 402440 Kaitlyn from Fire Engine Hire with Anika and Carmien from Cranbourne North. 402440 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

ON … SHOWCASING CASEY

Nurturing water skills

Star Swim School is not just another swim center; it’s a place built on the belief that water skills and safety are invaluable life lessons, especially for young babies. Our commitment is to provide quality training sessions that not only teach swimming but also instill a sense of fun and developmentally appropriate learning.

Star Swim Schools is dedicated to providing quality learn-to-swim programs for both children and adults. Our programs start from as early as 4 months old, emphasising the importance of early exposure to water skills and safety.

Every child should have the opportunity to learn aquatic skills and safety measures, which is why Star Swim School offers weekly baby swimming classes, open all year round, for children as young as 4 months old. Our top-rated instructors are experts in their field, ensuring that your child receives the best possible guidance.

Our facilities are designed with your child’s comfort and safety in mind. The baby swimming pools are equipped with clean and warm water, creating a welcoming environment for your little ones. Additionally, we provide a recreational area to keep accompanying children entertained, temperature-controlled changing rooms for convenience, and professional customer service to address all your needs and requirements.

At Star Swim School, we prioritise small group sizes to ensure that each child receives the attention and care necessary for their learning and development. This not only enhances

Star Swim Schools: Nurturing swimming skills for children.

their safety but also accelerates their learning process.

For a limited time, new members can enjoy 1 month of free classes, allowing them to experience the benefits of our programs firsthand. Additionally, when you sign up for 12 classes, you’ll receive 4 classes for FREE, making it easier and more affordable to commit to your swimming journey.

Visit us at our swim centers located at Normandy St, Cranbourne, and Palladium Circuit, Clyde North,, and experience the Star Swim School difference. Let us help your child develop essential water skills and safety habits that will last a lifetime.

· Cranbourne - 04 6873 4708 2/1 Normanby St, Cranbourne.

· Clyde - 04 9343 3076 2/38 Palladium Circuit, Clyde North.

Preparing for the future

Marnebek School is a specialist P-12 school delivering highly individualised educational programs for students with disabilities, high support needs and/or developmental challenges. Our vast network of dedicated educators, occupational therapists, speech therapists, social workers and psychologists work together to provide a supportive learning community that enables our students to embrace learning.

At Marnebek School, we pride ourselves on providing a stimulating and engaging environment where students can truly embrace learning and achieve their full potential.

Our approach focuses not only on academic excellence but also on building students’ social, emotional, and physical wellbeing, empowering them to become active and valued members of their community.

One of the key aspects of our school is our commitment to tailoring programs to meet the individual needs of each student.

We understand that every child is unique, and as such, we offer a range of educational programs and support services to ensure that every student has the opportunity to thrive. Whether it’s through our dedicated educators, occupational therapists, speech therapists, or social workers, we are here to support our students every step of the way.

We are also excited to be part of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Navigators Initiative. This initiative aims to provide additional support to families navigating the NDIS, ensuring that they can access the supports and services they need for their child. By having NDIS Navigators in all Victorian government specialist schools by 2025, we hope to make the process of accessing the NDIS smoother and more ac-

cessible for our community.

At Marnebek School, we believe in preparing our students for the future. That’s whyweplaceastrongemphasisonlearning with technology and offer a range of sensory spaces designed to help our students develop the skills they need to succeed in an increasingly digital world. By providing a supportive learning community where everyone is encouraged to be responsible, safe, respectful, and resilient, we aim to produce active learners who are ready to take on the challenges of tomorrow.

Marnebek School is more than just a place of learning. It is a community where students are encouraged to grow, learn, and thrive. We are committed to providing a supportive and engaging environment that empowers our students to reach their full potential and become active and valued members of society.

Marnebek School’s community is where students are encouraged to grow, learn, and thrive.

FOCUS ON … SHOWCASING CASEY

Pilates in the heart of town

The effective, addictive and totally transformative reformer Pilates classes are designed by a team of physiotherapists making them safe for all ages and fitness levels and will leave you looking and feeling fitter, stronger and more toned after just 6 classes.

Unparalleled by any other workout experience, the luxe studio positioned in south-east Melbourne has 14 reformer beds, polished hardwood floors and the signature Studio Pilates chandelier that will help you switch your mind off from outside distractions, so you can focus on you.

With classes morning, noon and night, you’re sure to find the perfect class time that fits with you and your schedule, regardless if you’re an early bird or a night owl.

Whether you’re new to Pilates or you’re a seasoned expert, you’ll be guided, supported and challenged by world-leading instructors who provide one-on-one feedback to help you feel confident and accomplished after every class. Our instructors are highly knowledgeable, skilled in injury modifications and love working with all bodies to get you feeling your absolute best.

The incorporation of AV technology during class showcases each move accompanied by voiceover guidance. This allows instructors to move around the studio, ensuring proper form for safety and maximum results - making classes feel like oneon-one training, within a fun group environment.

With scientifically sequenced programming, Studio Pilates classes are effective for allagesandfitnesslevels.So,whetheryou’re

looking to strengthen your core, improve your posture, incorporate some strength and resistance training into your workouts or simply try something new, Studio Pilates Clyde North can help you not only achieve, but exceed your goals.

Studio Pilates Clyde North has a variety of different class packs to choose from, starting with casual single classes all the way up to 100 class packs.With no memberships or lock-in contracts, you can choose an option that is right for you.

But don’t just take our word for it, experience the Studio Pilates Clyde North difference for yourself with our exclusive Introductory Offer and get 6 Classes for $60 + Free Orientation Workout* available for a limited time only.

Visit studiopilates.com/studios/clydenorth for more info or call 0431 936 297.

Berwick gem

Located in Blackburn Square Berwick, there exists a gem that transcends time, embracing a legacy of exquisite craftsmanship and unwavering dedication to its customers.

Berwick Village Jewellers, nestled in the quaint Blackburn Square, stands as a testament to a decades-long tradition that commenced with the visionary founders, James and Kay Drysdale who started the business in March 1984.

Today, under the caring stewardship of Anthony and Sylvia, the legacy continues, thriving as a family-owned business rooted in the same cherished values that its founders held dear.

With a combined experience of over 40 years in the jewellery and watch industry, Anthony and Sylvia bring unparalleled expertise to every piece they create and every repair they undertake. Anthony, a fully qualified watchmaker and jeweller, ensures that all watch and jewellery repairs are meticulously executed

on-site, guaranteeing precision and quality. Alongside them, a dedicated team comprising Michelle, Jenny, and Rosanna, further enriches the customer experience with their wealth of knowledge and warm hospitality.

BerwickVillage Jewellers distinguishes itself not only through its remarkable craftsmanship but also its commitment to personalised service. Specialising in handcrafted engagement rings, wedding rings, and Swiss watch repairs, the store stands as a beacon of expertise in the heart of Berwick. The shop and its staff, often regarded as Berwick’s royalty, offer not just products but an experience — a journey into the world of fine jewellery and horology.

For those seeking unparalleled expertise and genuine warmth, BerwickVillage Jewellers invites you to discover the artistry and passion that reside within its walls. Visit them at Shop 2, Blackburne Square, Berwick, VIC 3806, Australia, and experience the tradition of excellence that has defined them for four decades.

Studio Pilates Clyde North has a variety of different class packs to choose from, starting with casual single classes all the way up to 100 class packs.

Jim, Kay, Michelle, Sylvia, Rosanna and Anthony. 370066

Experience stands out

In Cranbourne, First National Real Estate Finning stands tall as a trusted pillar of the community, boasting over 72 years of dedicated service. With a team of 21 professionals, the agency offers a wealth of experience and expertise to its clients.

Rick Lauretta leads the team with over 25 years in real estate, setting a high standard for client care and service excellence.

As Office Manager, Dean Tucker ensures personalized attention for every client, drawing on his extensive decades-long industry experience.

Jason Brown, a Director and Sales Manager, brings a deep passion for rural and lifestyle properties to the team & drives the sales team to be their very best.

Angie, the longest-serving member, embodies the agency’s commitment to excellence, with decades of experience under her belt.

John, an entrepreneur with 24 years in the building industry, adds a unique perspective to the team. His dedication to success extends to his role in the agency.

Dom, the Customer Service Officer, enhances client interactions with his handyman abilities and over 20 years of association with the company, ensuring every client receives top-notch service.

Completing the leadership team are Rick, Dean, Jason, and John, who steer the company down a modern path while honoring its rich legacy.

Twilight market delight

The Lions Club of Casey is a community group with local members serving residents. We pride ourselves on partnering with schools to deliver eye-testing to young children, supporting sporting groups and choirs, and being a friendly face serving you sausages at Bunnings, Carols by Candlelight, Council events and school carnivals!

This Winter, Casey Lions are hosting an Indoor Winter Twilight Market at Cranbourne Public Hall, giving you the chance to showcase and sell your goods, wares, and food throughout the year and enjoy everything a market has to offer – and not just in the summer months! We hope to bring families and friends together over four Fridays in Winter.

We look forward to seeing you shopping and selling in the coming months.

Bookings are still available!

Please contact Norma on 0431 521 556 or barnardnorma8@gmail.com if you are interested.

A stall includes a trestle table and chair inside for $30.00.

Keep an eye out for other upcoming Lions events in your area via our Facebook page ‘Lions Club Casey’.

Have an appetite to serve the community? Contact Norma to chat more about what being a Lion means or attend one of meetings held twice a month!

Have an upcoming event you would like assistance with? A school carnival? Business launch? Or need help accessing other local services? Email secretarylionsclubofcasey@gmail.com and we look forward to helping you out.

We’re Lions. We serve.

Since its establishment in 1952, the agency has remained at the forefront of innovation and excellence, continually striving to exceed client expectations. With a change in ownership in 2016, the agency remains committed to its core values, ensuring the legacy of service and experience continues for generations to come.

For over 72 years, First National Real Estate Finning has been a trusted partner for clients seeking property solutions in Cranbourne and beyond. With a team of experienced professionals dedicated to client benefit, the agency stands ready to assist clients of all ages and backgrounds in achieving their real estate goals.

Jenny Chong, Mary Hailes, Eshal Ahmed, Norma Barnard, Rick Panozzo are looking forward to the Lions Club of Casey’s Winter Twilight Market.

Experience, Leadership, and Modern Vision: The Team at First National Real Estate Finning.

FOCUS ON … SHOWCASING CASEY

everyone,

events

of

with a Clothes Swap on 26 April and a Retirement Village presentation on 29 April.

The community hub offers many services, activities and support services that cater to every member of the local community, with staff that aim to be“just like a good neighbour”.

The neighbourhood centre has two loca-

tions; 112 High Street which includes their Children’s Services and Senior Citizens Building, and 20-26 Parkhill Drive with Timbarra Community Centre, hall, and the community garden.

The children’s services at High Street offer a warm and welcoming environment that accommodates children new to childcare but also includes programs such as their three-year-old Play and Grow initiative.

The Timbarra location also provides a similar environment, with facilitated, age-based playgroups that offer a wide range of activities, from exercise classes to crafts and playgroups as well as the community garden with accompanying workshops.

Going for over 30 years, the Berwick Activities Club is also part of the centre, with social activities, outings, carpet bowls, dancing and many more to offer.

A knitting group is also part of the BNC, whose skills, work and time are put towards producing garments for a range of charities and children in need.

Further upcoming events include the Mother’s Day high tea onThursday 9 May, which will bepresentedbytheBerwickbranchoftheCWA.

For more information on enrolment, activities and groups, visit the BNC website at www. berwickneighbourhoodcentre.com

Members of the Berwick Activities Club playing board games. Pictures: SUPPLIED The Activities Club offers social gatherings filled with a range of activities for all to enjoy.

FOCUS ON … ST.GERMAIN CENTRAL

It’s a place like no other

Nestled within the bustling heart of Clyde North lies St.Germain, a showcase development that embodies the essence of a vibrant and thriving community.

This master-planned precinct is not just a place to live; it’s a place to thrive, offering residents a lifestyle that encompasses everything they need within easy reach.

From residential homes to a bustling town centre, healthcare facilities to employment opportunities, St.Germain is a testament to thoughtful urban planning and communityfocused design.

One of the standout features of St.Germain is its central hub, aptly named St. Germain Central.

This dynamic shopping centre is the beating heart of the community, designed with the lifestyle of a contemporary European village in mind.

It’s not just a shopping destination; it’s a place where residents can live, work, shop, and socialise, all within walking distance of their homes.

At the core of St.Germain Central is a fullline Coles supermarket, providing residents with easy access to fresh produce and everyday essentials. But it doesn’t stop there. The shopping complex also boasts a range of 19 specialty stores including retail, restaurants, and cafes, catering to every taste and preference. Whether you’re craving a gourmet meal, need to stock up on groceries, or simply want to unwind with a cup of coffee, St.Germain Central has you covered.

As St.Germain continues to grow and evolve, future developments are already in the pipeline.

A medical precinct is set to open in the latter part 2024, - one of the region’s largest planned

medical and wellness centres, offering general and specialist healthcare services to residents. This state-of-the-art facility will house a GP clinic, medical specialists, and a gym, ensuring that residents’ healthcare needs are met without the need to travel far. Additionally, plans

for a childcare centre and a community school are underway, further enhancing the liveability of the precinct. St.Germain is more than just a showcase development; it’s a blueprint for modern community living. With its wide range of residential homes, bustling town cen-

tre, and focus on community, St.Germain sets the standard for future developments in the City of Casey. It’s a place where residents can truly live, work, shop, and socialise, all within a vibrant and thriving community. stgermaincentral.com.au

NOW OPEN

St.Germain - A place like no other A dynamic shopping and community space in Melbourne’s premier southeastern hub.

Anchored by Coles and Liquorland, St.Germain offers Priceline, cafes and restaurants, and services such as dentist, newsagents, green grocer, laundromat, and more. With a multitude of specialty stores, St.Germain is your local shopping hub! Come visit today!

St.Germain is more than just a showcase development; it’s a blueprint for modern community living. Whether you’re a young adult, worker or retiree, St.Germain Central caters to everyone’s needs by serving as a vibrant local hub for all the essentials in the heart of the community.

St.Germain Central – A Place Like No Other.

Located in St Germain Central shopping centre, Urban Smile are the experts in teeth straightening using clear aligners. Book in for a free consultation with the Clyde Orthodontic Studio and we will take 3D scans, X-rays and professional dental photographs of your teeth and talk through your smile goals.

All smiles are designed by our specialist orthodontists, not dentists, so you can be confident you are getting the best treatment.

We provide an at home monitoring app to track tooth movement to ensure everything is on target, meaning less studio visits and the ultimate convenience for you. Our treatments include free teeth whitening and a retainer at the end. Suitable from 11 years, plus we provide interest free payment plans and accept health insurance rebates.

Book in for a free consultation today at urbansmile.com.au

and healthy smile

For all your health, beauty and wellness needs

Clyde North, your newest Priceline Pharmacy is now open!

For expert pharmacy advice and tailored beauty advice, come and say hello to the team at Priceline Pharmacy Clyde, 5/21 St Germain Boulevard, Clyde North (next to Coles).

Priceline Pharmacy is Australia’s leading health, beauty and wellness retailer. We offer an affordable range of products, services and expert advice delivered with real, classic care.

Priceline Pharmacy is committed to supporting all Australian families to live healthier and happier lives, by making health, beauty and wellness experiences simpler, more affordable and easier to access.

So, visit Priceline Pharmacy Clyde today for all your health, beauty and wellness needs.

Priceline Pharmacy, Clyde North at St.Germain Central - next to Coles.

Urban Smile are the experts in teeth straightening using clear aligners.

FOCUS ON … SHOWCASING CASEY

A place of belonging

Currently registered with Family Day Care provider, local not for profit Windermere, Jo Pierce has been running her own Family Day Care since 2021. She believes the personalised nature of home-based care provides the best outcomes for children.

“Every child can feel seen and valued and they have a place where they can belong,” she says from her experience as a Family Day Care educator.

As someone who loves and enjoys working with children, Jo began her career in long day care after completing her diploma in early childhood education and care.

While Jo enjoyed the interactions with children in centre-based care, developing relationships with them wasn’t practicable due to the large number in attendance.

“It was important for me to be able to build that relationship with them and I decided to start my own family day care,” says Jo.

As a parent, Jo also felt the need to spend more time with her young children which the long hours at long day care did not allow.

“My son was still in primary school and I didn’t like not being at home when he was home,” says Jo.

Family Day Care provided the perfect solution to meet her personal needs and facilitate the level of care she wished to provide. Personalised care and attention are very much at the heart of Family Day Care which maintains a limit of seven children up to age 12 with no more than four preschool children in care.

Across four days of operation, Jo has five children attending, who have been with her from the start.

“We have become like a little family. I know them so well I can let parents know if I notice a difference in their behaviours and they are not themselves.”

It’s no surprise that the children love going to Jo’s and parents often share how eager their children are to return to the family day care after the weekend.

Last September Jo’s passion and dedication were duly recognised by the Family Day Care Excellence Awards which named her the Regional Educator Winner for the Mornington Peninsula and Bass Coast region. Windermere were also recognised in the awards as a 2023 national finalist in the service category.

Jo credits her success to the strong bonds she has developed with families and children.

Jo also appreciates the support she receives from Windermere to run her Family Day Care seamlessly.

This support from Windermere also helps maintain the relationships with families that she cherishes so much.

“Not only do I have the confidence to tell families to reach out to Windermere with any questions, I also appreciate that they handle all the financial aspects. That played a big role in my decision to choose Windermere,” she says.

Windermere also provides an environment of support to deal with the challenges of work-

ing in isolation. This includes periodic visits to ensure Jo has all the support she needs.

To other educators who are looking to start out in Family Day Care, Jo has a few words of encouragement.

“Just go for it. It seems like a big step and there are things you must have in place before you can start.

I am so glad I pushed through any setbacks,” she says adding “I love what I do every day. This is what I was meant to do.”

For more information or to enrol visit www. windermere.org.au or call Windermere on 1300 946 337.

Windermere - a place of belonging in Family Day Care.

FOCUS ON … SHOWCASING CASEY

of metropolitan Melbourne and surrounding suburbs.

We are a family-owned and operated business, with over 20 years of experience providing honest, prompt and professional electrical work.

Our mission is to provide our clients with a high level of communication, quality craftsmanship and fair pricing, backed by a focus on safety, integrity and reliability. Our skilled technician’s electrical knowledge and experience will put your mind at ease. Your trust in us is our number one priority.

Our full-time administrative team is highly experienced and ready to assist you. We value long-term relationships and work efficiently to provide you with regular communication and transparency.

We know that it can be hard to find a good tradie, which is why we are 100 per cent committed to providing high-level service to our customers. We understand theimportance ofafastandefficientservice,particularlywhen an emergency electrician is required.

Our electricians are fully licensed and accredited with Energy Safe Victoria. We are also fully insured and guarantee all workmanship, so you can rest assured that your work will be completed safely and to a high standard. We also offer a 100 per cent lifetime workmanship warranty on all our work, giving you the peace

of mind that we trust in our skills and abilities.

If, for any reason at all, there is an issue with your project, we will return to your premises and rectify it at no extra cost to you.

Smillie Electrical team service areas throughout all of metropolitan Melbourne and surrounding suburbs.

FOCUS ON … SHOWCASING CASEY Delicious food options

Little Lanterns.. a little gem in Clyde North.

A bowl of comforting Vietnamese pho, freshly made Banh mi with all your favourite fillings, healthy rice paper rolls, pillowy bao buns, flavourful noodle bowls.

Just a sample of the mouthwatering dishes on the menu at Little Lanterns.. a light filled, smartly decorated cafe in the Maybloom health, wellness fitness and lifestyle precinct in the South East.

Situated at 20 Jura Way Clyde North, this quaint space on the ground floor, also offers delicious Lavazza coffee and scrumptious treats to tempt the sweet tooth.

The team who ran Lanterns Viet kitchen in Berwick are behind this latest adventure and strive to bring you the much lovedVietnamese dishes that were a hit on High Street.

If you were a lover of their food there, then you will be happy to find their mini version cafe just 10 minutes up the road in Clyde. And if you are new to the Lanterns brand, you won’t be disappointed.

Whether you are on your lunch break, or craving a takeaway coffee and something nice to go with it, or meeting a friend for a bite to eat, Little Lanterns is there to please.

As the winter days approach, the menu is being updated with curries, fried rice and wok fried noodles and new breakfast options are also being added so if you skip your morning cereal, you’ll definitely find something to stop the tummy rumbles.

While you’re there, look out for their cater-

ing brochure which allows you to click on a QR code and take you directly to their website. Their extensive options are sure to entice you into using their services for your next party or staff lunch function And speak to the staff about dinner options available from their other premises only minutes away from the cafe.

The Little Lanterns team has got you covered!

· 0408 537 281

· 11am-9pm 7 days

Freshly made Banh mi with all your favourite fillings, and of course, a coffee!

Vincent from Little Lanterns is a little gem in Clyde North.

FOCUS ON … SHOWCASING CASEY

Book wise

Family owned and operated for 21 years, Taylor & Moore provide nationwide business activity statements (BAS), bookkeeping and payroll services.

Their services include bookkeeping services, such as accounts payable and receivable, bank reconciliation, expense and debtor management, data entry, EOFY preparation, and accountant journals; BAS agent services including BAS, IAS, SGC, STP, GST and PAYGW Registrations, FTC and TPAR; payroll services including payroll processing, workers compensation, payroll tax and superannuation; specialised reporting services including cash flow management, budgeting, board reports, file audits, EOM reporting; and Xero software integration and training services.

Taylor & Moore director Sharron Taylor said they are constantly updating their processes to stay up-to-date.

“We are driven by a commitment to accuracy and precision in our work, providing meticulous bookkeeping services to ensure that our clients have reliable financial data to make informed decisions,“ she said.

“The dynamic nature of accounting and bookkeeping means staying updated with the latest industry trends, regulations, and technologies enables us to provide superior services to our clients.“

Ms Taylor said they pride themselves on being an established business.

“We service clients both local and interstate.

“We have an extensive knowledge base with friendly with accessibility of staff.

“Our approach is to help businesses succeed and we’re proud to provide proactive support to owners and their business.“

Ms Taylor said the enthusiastic and dynamic team, which includes a number of se-

nior staff members with more than 15 years’ experience, works hard to help clients achieve their goals.

“It is our mission to help our clients and to give them back their time and alleviate all the bookkeeping pressures and headaches so they can focus on all other aspects of their business,“ she said.

“We offer specialised bookkeeping services tailored to most industries including all trades, medical industry, investment properties and developers, retail, consulting, manufacturing, hairdressing, importer and exports, tourism, engineering, IT, entertainment, education, beauty and more.

“We are preparing our clients and their books for EOFY in preparation of their tax returns with their accountants.“

Accountants regularly refer their clients to use Taylor & Moore for their bookkeeping needs, with 98 per cent of its clients coming from referrals from accountants and other clients.

For more information, visit taylormoore. com.au

and invaluable.

Parents should be able to take pleasure in the water alongside their children, and this program makes that a reality.

The emotional and mental toll of not being confident in the water can be significant. The Swim Factory recognises this and aims to provide not just swimming skills but also peace of mind and enjoyment in aquatic activities. Safety is paramount, and this program prioritises equipping adults with the skills and confidence needed to stay safe in and around water.

For those interested in joining the program or learning more, contact The Swim Factory at 03 8768 8520 or visit them at 30 Remount Way, Cranbourne West, VIC, 3977. Remember, it’s never too late to learn to swim and enjoy the water safely.

Contact The Swim Factory if you are interested in joining their program or to learn more.

Taylor & Moore director Sharron Taylor. Picture: SUPPLIED

FOCUS ON … SHOWCASING CASEY

Saddle up with free entry

Southside Racing is thrilled to announce that all night meetings in May will be free for attendees, as the club eliminates admission charges for the remainder of the night racing season.

Nine meetings remain during the night racing season, five at Cranbourne and four at Sportsbet-Pakenham, giving racegoers ample opportunity to experience night racing at both venues.

“At Southside Racing, we’re dedicated to creating an unparalleled experience for rac-

ing enthusiasts across the southeast,“ said Neil Bainbridge, Chief Executive Officer. “Our goal is to eliminate a barrier that might prevent people from coming along and enjoying the full experience, whether it’s the excitement of witnessing the stars on the track up close or indulging in our exceptional food and beverage options, all while experiencing the renowned service that Southside Racing is known for.”

“By removing the barrier of admission charges, we are opening our gates wide to invite individuals and families to come together and experience the excitement of a night out

Supporting City of Casey

ann-marie.hermans@parliament.vic.gov.au

at our two premier venues,“ Bainbridge added.

The first free entry meeting will be held at Southside Cranbourne on Friday, 3 May, with the season’s final night racing meeting of the season to run at the same venue on Friday, 31 May.

Southside Racing Night Meetings Schedule for May:

Southside Racing @ Cranbourne

· Friday, 3 May

· Friday, 10 May

· Friday, 17 May

· Friday, 24 May

· Friday, 31 May

Southside Racing @ Sportsbet-Pakenham

· Thursday, 9 May

· Thursday, 16 May

· Thursday, 23 May

· Thursday, 30 May

For more information and updates, please visit www.southsideracing.com.au

Join us for an unforgettable night of racing action and entertainment at Southside Racing

Southside Racing welcomes racegoers with free entry for May night meetings.

MARNEBEK SCHOOL

Dual campus school based in Cranbourne East, offering an environment that supports students’ academic, social and personal needs.

HELPING SPECIAL STUDENTS TO REACH THEIR FULL POTENTIAL

Marnebek School is a specialist P-12 school delivering highly individualised educational programs for students with disabilities, high support needs and/or developmental challenges.

Part of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Navigators Initiative, parents and carers receive the support they need to navigate and understand the NDIS, ensuring they get the most out of the available support for their child.

At Marnebek - we follow a School Wide Positive Behaviour Support Framework with benefits for both Students and Teachers including

• increased respectful and positive behaviour

• increased time focused on instruction

• improved social-emotional wellbeing

• positive and respectful relationships among students and staff

• increased adoption of evidence-based instructional practices

• a predictable learning environment with improved perceptions of safety and increased attendance

Visit our website to discover more about the incredible opportunities, support, and work happening at Marnebek School.

https://www.marnebek.vic.edu.au/

Lest we forget

Students and teachers from St Paul Apostle Primary School attended the Endeavour Hills mid-morning Anzac Day ceremony at 11am on 23 April.

Just one of the four schools that were present, the children were part of the wreath-presenting ceremony, where they placed the bundle of flowers at the base of the Peace Memorial.

President of the Dandenong-Cranbourne RSL Lance McDermott welcomed everyone, saying that “on this day above all days, we recall those who have served in war and who did not return to receive the grateful thanks of our nation”.

“We remember those who lay in unknown resting places, those gallant men under the sea and those whose lives ended in the vastness of the sky.

“We especially remember those who died as prisoners of war, away from their homeland and far from the comforting presence of their loved ones.”

Homeless alarm

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

In a dire warning on the housing crisis, Casey has reportedly topped the state for growing numbers of the ‘working homeless’.

In 2022-23, there were 641 homeless clients in Casey who were employed – up 9 per cent from the year before, a Council to Homeless Persons new report stated.

Of them, the vast majority - 502 - were women (78 per cent).

Shari McPhail, general manager at South East homelessness service Wayss, said “working poor” families with dual incomes were even under threat by skyrocketing rents and unmanageable costs of living.

“Historically this has not been a group of people who have sought our services, and we are concerned about this trend.

“Employment is no longer the safety net it once was.

“We are seeing first-hand (in Dandenong, Cardinia and Casey) how the system is buckling – there is an urgent need for action.”

Wayss chief executive Wayne Merritt said the causes and solutions of homelessness were complex but it was “unconscionable not to act”.

“There is an extremely urgent need to increase short term support to help people at risk of homelessness, and long-term solutions for people locked in a cycle of homelessness.

“We need more housing, and we need to action income support reform to those on the lowest incomes.”

Community Information & Support Cranbourne executive director Leanne Petrides said the situation was “dire”.

“Without massive government funding into crisis and social housing ... it is only going to get worse.”

Since January, CISC has provided information and referrals to more than 1100 people in need of housing support.

More than 60 per cent were women, as well as growing numbers of people over 60 years of age, people who are employed and people coming for support for their first time.

“More people are struggling with rising costs of essential items – food and petrol, while also trying to keep up with increasing rent or mortgage payments.

“People are skipping car and other loan repayments, using Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) schemes, and multiple credit cards to try to keep their heads above water.

“Some people have no recourse but to sell

their homes, and end up with no assets, and nowhere to move to due to the ever shrinking and highly expensive rental market.”

Wellsprings for Women, which provides housing support especially to women impacted by family violence, received 86 housing referrals in the past 10 months.

“We know the current economic crisis is impacting women even if they are employed,” Wellsprings chief executive Dalal Smiley said.

“They are either working in low paid industries or casual work or are underemployed.

“The ones looking for somewhere to live face difficulties due to a lack of rental history.

“Or for some involved in child protection orders - they face challenges finding an affordable property that meets the required number of bedrooms required by the department.”

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StudentsandteachersfromStPaulApostlePrimarySchoolwithLanceMcDermottinthebackground. 400850 Picture:GARYSISSONS

Public transport ‘lacking’

By Ethan Benedicto

Settling into newer estates is bound to come with its own set of challenges, and for the residents of St Germain in Clyde North the lack of public transport options is a concerning factor.

For Lauren Ryan and her family, the biggest challenge has been getting her two children to school at Kambrya College on time.

While the traffic throughout Thompsons Roundabout and Soldiers Road already serves as a tough hurdle to jump, the infrequency of buses and the lack of a more direct route only add to the burden.

“So in the mornings, they would have to get a 7.58am bus from here and take it down Thompsons Road, get off at Clyde Road –which I’m not the biggest fan of because of the traffic.

“The next bus at Clyde Road is supposed to come at 8.15am, which if it came on time it would fine but the traffic in this area is an absolute nightmare.

“Most likely the bus comes after 8.30 every day and they need to be at school by 8.40, so they’re late every single day,” she said.

The 881 bus route just across St Germain Boulevard Park runs every 40 minutes, making travel times either too early or much too late for the family.

By the same token, the 888 bus on BerwickCranbourne Road runs every hour, with the next option after the 8.15am service due at 9.11am.

What is normally a 10-minute drive offpeak and a 20-minute journey during peak morning hours, is more than doubled when Ms Ryan’s children opt for public transport.

“They’re missing the start of classes and everything, so they get detentions if they’re late so you know, it puts stress on the girls,” Ms Ryan said.

Berwick MP Brad Battin, who had been in touch with the Ryan family and the Quint family whose children also attend Kambrya College, was unable to get any clarity on the issue

from the Minister of Education late in March.

While there have been no updates on the efforts to get in touch with the Minister for Public and Active Transport, Mr Battin said that “a lack of bus service to get kids to school on time is just one of the many problems that people in the area are having to put up with”.

“For the Department and the Minister to think it is ok for a school child to spend two hours getting to school and two hours getting home, that just shows the lack of desire they have to fix the problem,” he said.

John Quint, whose daughter also attends Kambrya College said that while he is able to drop her off on certain days, it is “very problematic and unfortunately, there is no realistic way for her to get home”.

“Using the public transport planner app, you can see that to get from Kambrya College to our address is a journey of over two hours, split between three different buses with walks in-between bus stops and a total of 67 stops on the commute, it’s just crazy,” he said.

Ms Ryan is in a similar situation, with concerns of after-school travel times, and the winter weather in the coming months.

“We’re going into winter now, with rain, it’s cold, it’s windy and the bus comes late as well, I just don’t want them sitting around after school,” she said.

While there are times Ms Ryan can drop her children off, it’s not effective as she’s had to change her work structure.

“On the way home they just have to deal with it, if there were better bus services it might take people off the road,” she said.

For Mr Battin, more action from the State Government is needed on public transport services in the Clyde North area.

“The demand is there, so it just needs some proper planning and the Allan Labor Government to stop talking and actually do something,” he said.

The DTP was contacted for comment on the existing bus routes but did not respond before deadline.

Ladies hit the park pavement for cord blood research

The Inner Wheel Club of Narre Warren has once again shown its commitment to supporting cord blood research by bringing its annual “Two for Ten” charity walk to Wilson Botanic Park on Friday 19 April.

A group of club members in their symbolic red shirts and researchers from the Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute at Monash University gathered in a cheerful vibe at the front gate and ambled through a two-kilometre trail of the park.

The morning walk has raised close to $1,000 in donations and more is coming up, which will altogether go towards the Ritchie Centre.

The Ritchie Centre is committed to finding cures for the treatment of leukemia, strokes, heart disease, cerebral palsy, diabetes, and other autoimmune diseases such as Cystic Fibrosis. Cord blood is one of the most valuable tools being used in research of these diseases. Using stem cells containing just 30ml of cord blood collected from donated placentas can save a child’s life. The annual walk aims to raise awareness of cord blood research as well as raise funds.

been involved in fundraising for the past two decades. Over $3 million has been awarded in grants since 2002.

members are going to Manchester in the United Kingdom in late April to celebrate 100 years of the worldwide InnerWheel organisation.

Inner Wheel Clubs across Australia have

Four Narre Warren Inner Wheel Club

Narre Warren Inner Wheel Club members and researchers from the Ritchie Centre. From left, Tamara Yawno, Arya Jithoo, Beth Allison, Charmaine Rock, Ricki Marzan, Tegan White, Chuanyu Wei, Indya Davies, Beth Piscopo, Tayla Penny, Anne McGill, Dianne Barlow, and Helen Lay (club president). 400078

Ready to head off on the walk. 400078 Pictures: ROB CAREW

Four Narre Warren Inner Wheel Club members are going to Manchester in the United Kingdom in late April to celebrate 100 years of the worldwide Inner Wheel organisation. They are (from left) Pauline Brewster, Heather Dolman, Margaret Sansom, and Vicki Kruber. 400078

A relaxing walk through the park. 400078

Shooter jailed

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

A drug-addled gunman who randomly shot into a car containing two innocent teenagers in Clyde has been jailed.

Anthony Creswell, 30, pleaded guilty at the Victorian County Court to two counts of recklessly causing injury, using a firearm as a prohibited person, and drug possession as well as summary offences.

In the early hours of 4 January 2023, Creswell had driven over to Pump House Crescent after a co-offender received a message that the victim’s parked car was suspicious.

Despite having “no idea” who was in the car, Creswell approached with a 12-gauge shotgun and demanded to know the driver’s name, sentencing judge Fiona Todd said on 23 April.

The 19-year-old driver started to drive away, and Creswell shot a round through the car’s rear window into the back of the driver’s seat.

Judge Todd noted that the victims suffered “thankfully, minor” injuries.

The driver was taken to hospital with three metal fragments in his back. Two pellets were later removed from the driver’s seat.

His passenger, who was his 19 year old cousin, suffered a cut, bruised arm.

Creswell’s “deeply serious”, “random” and “outrageous” behaviour had “shattered the sense of safety” of the victims – who had been simply chatting in a car in a quiet, suburban street, Judge Todd said.

During his arrest by Special Operations Police in the Cranbourne KFC car park on 16 January 2023, Creswell suffered a broken jaw and dogbites to his leg.

Police seized deal bags of methylamphetamine totalling 1.9 grams and a motorbike with a false number plate.

At the time, Creswell was highly drug addicted, in declining mental health and hanging with anti-social peers - this was context but no excuse, Judge Todd said.

In his “paranoid” and “drug-addled” state, he had a “sense of entitlement to inflict harm on others”, the judge said.

At the time, Creswell was on a community corrections order and prohibited from using a gun.

Born in Hobart, Creswell had prior convictions for drug, driving and weapon offences including for being a prohibited person with a gun.

Judge Todd said Creswell had “capacity to repair” himself but his history with guns was particularly concerning.

Co-offender James Bartlett, 34, of Clyde, was sentenced at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court for two counts of recklessly causing injury, bail offences, driving suspended and possessing prohibited weapons - a taser and OC spray.

Bartlett was jailed for 120 days and put on an 18-month community correction order without conviction.

Hewasgivenasignificantsentencingdiscount after providing a statement implicating Creswell.

Unlike Creswell, Bartlett wasn’t a prohibited person or on a CCO at the time of the shooting.

Judge Todd further noted that Creswell was the principal offender who brought the gun to the scene and fired it.

Creswell was jailed for three-and-a-half years – with a non-parole period of two years and three months. He had already served 463 days of his term in remand.

Councillor gift policy tightened to $20

By Violet Li

Casey Council updated its Councillor Gift Policy at the April meeting, with a major change of reducing the gift declaration limit from $50 to $20.

The updated policy stipulates that all offers worth more than $20 are nontoken offers and must be declared and recorded on the gift, benefit, and hospitality register.

A Conflicts of Interest sector has been added to inform councillors that any gift, benefit, or hospitality they declare over five years could give rise to an actual, potential, or perceived conflict of interest, which includes election campaign donations.

A Rewards Programs sector has been introduced to minimise the benefit derived from purchasing on behalf of the council or benefiting from council expenses.

Councillors must not collect rewards for personal uses via commercial rewards programs like Flybuys, for any councilrelated expenses transaction.

The inclusion of an Exceptions to Councillor Gift Policy sector is aimed to minimise confusion around accepting gifts, benefits, and hospitality derived from council’s partnership agreements, and accepting internal gifts for recognition of service.

It states that tickets offered to councillors through partnership agreements between the council and sporting clubs can be accepted whereby ticket offerings form part of the partnership agreement. However, those tickets must still be declared.

Gifts from the council to councillors are not covered by this policy and do not need to be declared, but the nature of such gifts needs to be in recognition of their services at the end of the mayor and councillors’ terms.

‘They feel more understood’: MyTime launches in Berwick

By Ethan Benedicto

A space for sharing experiences, providing advice and expressing one’s feelings from everyday hurdles to major life choices, MyTime caters to families and their children who are in need of a higher level of care.

With roughly 40 branches across Victoria, Berwick became one of the latest additions to the free peer support groups that MyTime organises, where parents and children until the age of six are welcome, without the need for diagnosis, to participate in the sessions.

Program manager for the Berwick branch, Madison Robinson, said that “at its core, it’s peer support for parents and for carers of children with disability, or really any additional needs, compared to other children”.

“It could be that the baby was born prematurely and need a little bit more assistance, a chronic medical condition or a developmental delay,” she said.

The foundation of the group sessions are all about parents and carers having the opportunity to connect with others in a similar situation, potentially from similar backgrounds but also those within their local community.

Ms Robinson said that these MyTime sessions are different from the usual play groups and mother groups and that it’s not childcare.

“The focus really is on that facilitated peer support and their growth as parents and carers and providing meaningful connection.

“We’ll get guest speakers in, do morning teas, special events; we have a partnership with Buttons where they come out and do activities with us.

“The idea of it really is to be peer let, so we talk to the community and we say, ‘well what would you like to do?’ And ‘what would you like to learn about?’”

The parents or carers are never far from their children during these peer support groups, with sessions being held in the same room.

During said peer sessions, a play leader will be responsible for attending to the needs of the children while a group facilitator oversees and fosters conversation amongst the guardians.

Vanja Flett, the group facilitator, said that “the essence of a group facilitator is to provide some self-care activities for parents and

opportunity for them to share what they sort of need to talk about - and they have a lot in common”.

“They feel more understood within that group rather than going to any mainstream social groups, where they have a child with a disability at home and they can’t really share that amongst others because they won’t be understood,” she said.

Held every fortnight, encouraging communication is all but part of the objectives of the support groups.

Ms Flett wants members to feel safe, welcomed and open with one another with their

struggles, to talk and vent to one another because it“sometimes may be their only self-care opportunity”.

“Not just to talk about their children and what issues they might have, it could be marriage, it could be their health.

“We also do a bit of activities here when they’re having a lot of fun, doing their nails, gardening; it’s to put their mind away from their everyday life and unloading a little bit of their difficulties,” she said.

While the primary duty of care still rests on the parents or carer, MyTime is a child-safe organisation, with staff that participates in child-

safe training and risk assessments and their every move child-led in terms of safety.

What separates MyTime from childcare are factors such as not having ratios, no strict eligibility criteria in terms of disability or assistance/further help required and of course, is not a facility where parents or guardians leave their children to the care of others.

Play leader Bibi Azizi recognises that each child has their own way of learning and interacting, from toys, to activities and people.

“If we get the opportunity, we ask the parent what the child really needs and likes, we provide those certain things for them to keep things calm, involving and loving,” Ms Azizi said.

Time spent together is essential for building rapport, not just for the adults but for the children as well.

Through the comfort of having their parents within arm’s length and having the opportunity to explore their interests with another parental figure, allows these children the space and room to grow.

At the same time, with the children preoccupied this means that parents and carers have the chance to unwind and support one another with the confidence of their children’s safety and wellbeing.

“We’ve had parents come and say ‘I was scared to come out to the community after delivering a child with special needs, and I always thought people would judge me’,” Ms Azizi said.

“They’d continue and say ‘when [they] found MyTime it has actually built [them] for the better, and [they’ve] become stronger than before’.”

“She [this parent] was, towards the end very happy saying that they’ve gained self-respect and self-confidence again compared to before, and while it may not be much it was a step forward to that person they wanted to be,” she said.

The MyTime program operates state-wide, with region-specific meetings where groups’ support leaders, facilitators and managers discuss prevalent topics to further their general understanding.

If you or someone you know is interested in taking part in MyTime’s peer support groups, contact them at 9486 9600 or send an email to manager@mytimevic.com.au

Members of the MyTime Berwick peer support group, from left, Vanja Flett, Madison Robinson and Bibi Azizi. 402395

Picture: ROB CAREW

White Ribbon support clear

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Recent tragedies have highlighted the scourge of men’s violence against women, but Doveton Football Netball Club has long taken a strong stand.

Netball and football players and supporters – including visiting club Skye - huddled in for the club’s annual White Ribbon Round event at Oak Avenue on Saturday 20 April.

With a long history and deep supporter base, DFNC takes a “total club approach”. It is one of the few entities incorporated as a football and netball club.

It has a strong family culture, a “no d***heads” policy and clear support for the White Ribbon cause.

At the event were DFNC No.1 ticket-holder and Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams, Victoria Police’s Senior Sergeant Graham Stanley as well as club ‘legend’, premiership coach and White Ribbon ambassador Steve Henwood.

Henwood led the club into being a foundation member of the White Ribbon Australia established in 2007.

Now the ‘white ribbon’ is embedded in the club’s logo, uniforms and mission statement.

“The boys proudly wear the white ribbon on our jumpers,” DFNC football president John Stapleton says.

“This event is a very important part of the year for us. At the end of the day our club leaders are very supportive and we try to do our bit for our community.

“Prevention of violence against women and families is paramount for us.

“It’s about improving the lives of everybody in the community.”

The message has a profound impact on the ‘family’ club’s culture – which has a strong“no d***heads policy”, Stapleton says.

“In terms of Doveton, it gets a pretty bad wrap. But people inside and outside of the club know what we’re really like, from the way we conduct ourselves.

“We pride ourselves very much as a family club. People are more willing to be part of the club and accept we’re fair dinkum about this.

“That’s why there’s a whole new generation coming through from many years ago, with their own families coming through.

“You can’t be wishy-washy about it. Anyone who wants to behave inappropriately is not part of the club.”

Ex-coach Steve Henwood, netball president Debby Henwood, Gabrielle Williams MP with her son Ruairí, Snr Sgt Graham Stanley, White Ribbon ambassador Ian Murphy and football president John Stapleton. 401898 Pictures: ROB CAREW

White Ribbon ambassador and club legend Steve Henwood. 401898

Gabrielle Williams MP addresses players and supporters. 401898

Disclosures a key focus

By Violet Li

Casey Council has proposed amendments to its governance rules to reflect the recommendations made by IBAC’s Operation Sandon, with a focus on openness and transparency.

Disclosure of conflict of interest is the key consideration across several divisions.

Councillors must provide written notice before the council meeting, detailing the nature of the conflict of interest, including the name of people or entities associated with their relationship with the councillors.

Councillors must declare the conflict of interest at the commencement of the meeting and during the meeting before the matter is considered.

Council will maintain a publicly available conflict of interest register which will include the date of disclosure, councillor name, the type of conflict, the nature of the interest, the time the councillor left and returned to the room, and the minutes to reflect the conflict declaration, including links.

A new provision will stipulate that a premeeting brief session is for informationsharing only. Councillors are not permitted to debate or make any preliminary decisions. Councillors will also be required to declare conflicts of interest in the pre-meeting.

Casey administrator Cameron Boardman said at the April meeting that pre-council meetings were not an opportunity to seek some degree of trade-offs, to look at potential decision-making outcomes, or to look at where favours and kickbacks could be.

“It’s an opportunity for councilors to be informed, to ask questions, to seek feedback, and to inform themselves so that they can make their decisions accordingly.

“The clear examples that the Operation Sandon and its final report showed was that that was not what was happening in this or-

ganisation [Casey Council].

“It is just one example of the specific requirements that we have ourselves embedded into these governance rules consistent with those recommendations under Operation Sandon.”

In line with the IBAC recommendation, planning agendas, including planning scheme amendments and planning permits, will include conflict of interest details.

The council officers must ensure a schedule of reportable donations and other known financial arrangements that parties have made or have with councillors, and a statement of the interested parties that includes details of the parties affected by the motion before the council, such as the names of personnel, company names, and registered addresses.

En-bloc voting, or collective voting, of the council resolutions will not be permitted dur-

ing a meeting, another new provision states.

Mr Boardman said councillors who will be successful in the coming October election should treat the amended governance rules as a bible and read every single word.

“These documents set the tone of the expectation of what happens once we [administrators] depart this place. And it may come across as somewhat patronising or even to some extent, ironically belittling,” he said.

“But the reality is that the Operation Sandon report highlighted quite detailedly and comprehensively appalling behaviour, significant lapses in professionalism and conduct issues, and ultimately, the nature in which the previous council was dismissed was without questionally justified through the findings of that report.”

In addition to the amendments reflecting improved transparency, new rules have been proposed to address the presence of the public at the council meeting.

People who submit a public question will be required to be present at the meeting at the time the question and response are due to be read.

The council will not read the question and the response if they are not present, which will only be recorded later in the minutes.

The public will also face more public behaviour regulations during a council meeting, including not interjecting or taking part in the debate, preserving silence at all times, not operating any form of recording unless they have consent from the council by prior arrangement, and not bringing any offensive material placed on placards, banners, posters or other signage.

Casey Council has endorsed the draft amendment to be placed on public consultation for four weeks and they would consider a final report before adopting the new rules in a future meeting.

Casey administrator Cameron Boardman said at the April meeting that pre-council meetings were not an opportunity to seek some degree of trade-offs, to look at potential decision-making outcomes, or to look at where favours and kickbacks could be.

$25,000 gift for laptops

Casey residents and long-time library users Robin and Arnis Dzedins have donated $25,000 to Connected Libraries to purchase laptops andWi-Fi dongles.

“Our gift is a practical way to support our local library service to expand its social inclusion and access programs, especially to those who are learning English and starting to use computers,” Robin said.

“We have chosen to give back to the community through the library because we value the way it has enriched our own lives over many years.”

The laptops will be made available to library members from June 2024. There is no cost to borrow a laptop. Connected Libraries members can search the library catalogue and reserve a laptop by visiting connectedlibraires.

OPINION

More than just a day

Dear Editor, Anzac Day is more than just wearing your badges with pride.

It is remembering what the men and women fought for, as well as present day forces on duty - for our rights, freedom and democracy, as well as for other countries to which they are deployed.

Honour this legacy.

Margaret Chatfield, Berwick

THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN

Thumbs down

To the closing of Station Street in Officer. The CFA and SES response times will suffer as a result.

Thumbs up

To Lang Lang Football Club for a great night Saturday for our Anzac game against Longwarry.

Thumbs up

To all the hard work from the volunteers, sponsors, stall holders and everyone who made the Yakkerboo Festival such a huge success! It was fabulous seeing the festival so busy, all while supporting small local businesses!

Thumbs up

The team at Casey Hospital in Berwick for their great care of my mum.

Thumbs down

To Bank of Melbourne closing in Pakenham as of August.

org.au

When notified of availability the laptop can be collected from Hampton Park Library.

“Laptops offer members of the Casey community access to technology at home when this might not be possible otherwise. When family budgets are tight this is a wonderful and free resource,” Connected Libraries chief executive officer Beth Luppino said.

Connected Libraries graciously accept donations big or small from community members at any time. The library has Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status and donations over $2 are tax deductible.

If you would like to see how you can make a difference at your local library, please visit connectedlibraries.org.au/donations

Fire restrictions ending

The Fire Danger Period (FDP) will end in Casey and Cardinia, as well as Baw Baw, Greater Dandenong and other council areas, at 1am onWednesday 1 May.

CFA Deputy Chief Officer South East Trevor Owen said CFA permits are available for landowners to conduct burning off in line with local municipal regulations.

“Residents in these regions do have the opportunity to access a permit free of charge to conduct private property fuel reduction when fire restrictions apply,” he said.

“It’s a fairly simple process through the Fire Permits Victoria website and notification toTriple ZeroVictoria.

“It is important to check if any additional council fire regulations apply as these vary from municipality to municipality.”

Mr Owen said it is also important to check all conditions before a burn-off.

“As always, follow all conditions detailed in the permit and ensure an adult is in attendance at all times,” he said.

“It’s also important to monitor current and forecasted weather conditions and landowners should notify their neighbours.”

Tips on how to stay safe when burning off include:

· Check and monitor weather conditions –particularly wind;

· Avoid unnecessary calls to emergency services and notify your neighbours beforehand;

· Leave a three-metre fire break, free from flammable materials around the burn;

· Have sufficient equipment and water to stop the fire spreading;

· Never leave a burn-off unattended – stay for its entire duration; and

· If your burn-off gets out of control, call Triple-Zero immediately.

Mr Owen said the CFA were aware of developing fuel loads following recent storms.

“Somepartsoftheregionhavebeenquite dry and we’re also seeing pockets of dry vegetation from damaged trees that have been impacted by recent storms that will require clean up over several months,” he said.

“We know these natural vegetation fuels can become quite dry even during the winter period.

“While there is still an element of risk, we will take an extra level of assurance to protect the community and I encourage residents to apply for the online permit should they need it.”

Mr Owen said you must still register your burn-offs,checkweatherconditionsandfollow local council laws, as well as EPA laws and applicable regulations. “Registering your burn-off ensures that if smoke or fire is reported, the incident is cross-checked with our register, which prevents firefighters from unnecessarily responding and allows Triple Zero call takers to focus their efforts on emergency calls,” he said.

“Please allow two hours for your burn-off to be visible online.”

To check fire restrictions in your area and register your burn, visit firepermits.vic.gov. au

LENSCAPE

Authorities say you must still register your burn-offs, check weather conditions and follow local council laws, as well as EPA laws and applicable regulations. Picture: ON FILE

Connected Libraries chief executive officer Beth Luppino (left), Arnis Dzedins (middle), and Robin Dzedins (right). Picture: SUPPLIED

Paulien bows out

By Violet Li

A cosy and warm retirement service was held at night during the choir’s routine rehearing hours to reminisce and farewell.

The community choir commenced operation in 2015 and the now 82-year-old Berwick resident was one of the founding members.

Looking back, the start was a beautiful opportunity.

“Opera Australia decided that they wanted to put a performance in the Sidney Myer Music Bowl in the city and have a lot of community choirs involved in it,” Paulien recalled.

“They approached a lot of the councils around Melbourne and Casey Council ran a project choir for that.

“Casey sponsored the choir, but they only did it for two years, and then they ceased sponsorship.

“But a lot of us had really enjoyed being in it. We said let’s start a community choir and keep yourselves going. So we did that in September of 2015.”

The choir later hired a conductor and a pianist and adopted a membership model. The rest was history.

Over the years, this culturally diverse choir has strewed voices all over Casey and the surroundings.

TheyperformedattheCranbourneSecondary College, Hampton Park Baptist Church, The Amazing Grace Cranbourne, Bunjil Place, Wilson’s Botanic Park, Cranbourne Uniting Church, Hallam Secondary College, and Dandenong RSL Anzac Day services.

In 2017, it performed at the opening of Bunjil Place and was the host choir at the City of Casey drought relief Casey Sings Concert in 2018.

During November 2018 and 2019, the choir hosted a family violence concert onWhite Ribbon Day at Bunjil Place.

For someone who was there for almost 10 years from the start, it was a hard decision for Paulien to say goodbye, but she had to.

“I’ve been toying with it [retirement] for about six months,” she said.

“Physically I can’t do that anymore. I’m pretty fit for my age, but after the last sausage sizzle for fundraising that we had back in November last year, it nearly killed me.

“And I thought, no, I can’t do this anymore.

“The committee got a shock when I said I was going to retire because that was the last thing that they were thinking of.”

For Paulien, retiring from her music group did not equal exiting the music world and never looking back.

Immigrating to Australia from Holland with her family when she was around 17, Paulien went through a lot to build up a life down un-

Homeless alarm: Rent, costs rise

From page 1

Increased rents have played a major role, Ms Smiley said.

“We should look for examples from around the world and be more creative with the way we increase housing options.”

South East Community Links chief executive Peter McNamara said the service was seeing a “bleak picture where even people with jobs are not immune to the threat of homelessness”.

They’ve seen a 70 per cent rise in employed people who were seeking homelessness assistance.

The shortage of affordable rentals, especially in the South East, was “exacerbating the homelessness crisis”, he said.

An Anglicare Rental Affordability Snapshot 2024 report found just 28 rental properties across Melbourne for households on income support.

Just one of them was located in Greater Dandenong.

For households on a minimum wage, there were depleting stocks of affordable homes in the South East - 95 in Casey (down from 176 in 2023) and 38 in Cardinia (down from 104).

Both areas are still rated in the top 10 of the most affordable properties in metropolitan Melbourne.

Growing legions of the ‘working homeless’ were found across most council areas in Victoria.

The next highest tallies were mainly outer-suburban and regional areas Wyndham (624), Greater Geelong (535), Greater Bendigo (479) and in neighbouring Greater Dandenong (452).

der. She commanded a new language, started in hospitality, went into an office job, moved around for a living, and eventually settled in Berwick where she still resides.

Music was immediately a new addition after she came here.

“I learnt to sing when I was very young. I went to church, and I joined the choir, and I started to realise then that I really enjoyed singing,” she recalled.

“My brother and my father sang in the choir as well because they both have very good voices, as well as my mother.

“I’ve been involved in the musical industry for a while.Whilst I was in the advertising business, I didn’t have time.

“But after I retired, I went back into it, and I still have singing lessons today. I do a fair bit of solo singing myself.

“So, keep the voice going.”

CHG found that across Victoria, more than 12,100 employed people sought homelessness support.

They make up one in eight of homelessness service clients.

In its report, CRP called on state and federal governments to support more renters in avoiding eviction with the Private Rental Assistance Program.

It also called for 6000 more public and community homes in the next 10 years.

Victorians had the worst access to social housing in the country, which was leading to women and children experiencing family violence waiting an average of two years for community housing, CRP stated.

Voices of Casey manager Paulien George stepped down on Monday 15 April after almost a decade developing and leading the community choir.

Voices of Casey committee members Annette Spencer, Catherine Gensalves, Deb Malmo, Paulien George, Greg Nielson, Brenda Waterman and Donna McHattie. 400778

All members of the Voices of Casey choir are attending the retirement service. 400778

Paulien George at her retirement service. 400778

Pictures: GARY SISSONS

We will remember them

By Ethan Benedicto

With strong winds blowing the flags and warm sun bearing on the attendees, Endeavour Hills held an Anzac Day ceremony at 11am on Tuesday 23 April.

Held at the Endeavour Hills Peace Memorial, the service was curated by the DandenongCranbourne RSL, and saw the participation of Bruce MP Julian Hill and Southeast Metro MP Ann-Marie Hermans.

Also present were representatives local primary schools, with a select few students and teachers who were part of delivering the wreaths on the monument.

President of the Dandenong-Cranbourne RSL Lance McDermott welcomed everyone, saying that “on this day above all days, we recall those who have served in war and who did not return to receive the grateful thanks of our nation”.

“We remember those who lay in unknown resting places, those gallant men under the sea and those whose lives ended in the vastness of the sky.

“We especially remember those who died as prisoners of war, away from their homeland and far from the comforting presence of their loved ones.”

After delivering a strong speech that delved into camaraderie, sacrifice, duty and service, Mr McDermott represented DandenongCranbourne RSL and delivered the first wreath on the base of the monument.

Following after him was Acting Senior Sergeant for the Endeavour Hills Police Mark Mckley, followed by Julian Hill MP and AnnMarie Hermans MP.

After members from the Endeavour Hills Shopping Centre delivered their wreaths, children from Thomas Mitchell Primary School presented their wreaths.

Following soon after were children from Southern Cross Primary, James Cook Primary and St Paul Apostle North Primary who delivered their wreaths one after another.

The Last Post played not long after with children from the schools raising the Australian, New Zealand and British flags, followed by a minute’s silence and the national anthem being sung.

The ceremony concluded with Mr McDermott thanking all who attended, with bagpiper Alistair Wright and bugler Alan Collard sounding off the last of their instruments.

Lance McDermott from the Dandenong-Cranbourne RSL at the beginning of the ceremony. 400850 Pictures: GARY SISSONS

The crowd were gathered at the Endeavour Hills Peace Memorial, with the flags in the midst of being raised. 400850

The staff of Endeavour Hills Shopping Centre, from left: Louise Foster, John Elfer, Jazz Singh and Shivana Shankar. 400850

Veterans placing their wreaths on the monument. 400850 Southeast Liberal representative Ann-Marie Hermans bowing after delivering her wreath. 400850 Bruce MP Julian Hill after delivering his wreath. 400850 Lance McDermott was the first to present his wreath to the monument. 400850

Endeavour Hills VicPol, from left: Alicia Phillips, Stephanie Giccominato, Mark Mckley and Alan Dew. 400850

Students from Thomas Mitchell Primary School; from left, Petra, Anthony, Yuvitha and Krista. 400850

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A day in the life of Kay

By Violet Li

Kay

Taranto’s

Wild Days Wildlife Shelter is tucked away down a drive in the Narre Warren residential precinct. It is a single-story structure under tree shades with a spacious front yard, revealing not the slightest betrayal of the neighbourhood’s character. It’s involuntary to suspect you got the wrong address and question how this place could possibly rescue more than 1000 wildlife a year.

But Kay has shown everyone she could.

The structure is her house. It was transformed into a registered wildlife haven without any structural conversion. She just makes the most of the existing space in an organised and quiet way. Card boxes of supplies and vented plastic fruit boxes are piled neatly. Coles’ plastic bags that hold the food donations from the kind helpers are gathered in the kitchen. Wildlife portraits decorate the walls. She has a cage room for small-sized orphans, a treatment room, and more than 10 aviaries in the backyard. This is where she has lived and breathed her rescue day for the past 16 years.

The beginning is a brushtail possum, whose close-up shot is framed on the wall. He was a little orphan from a car accident that killed his mum.

The wildlife shelter started similar to many, Kay said.

She had always loved animals and then one day, coming across an injured one, she picked it up and found out - through the process of what happens next - that there wasn’t enough people helping out.

“And then you think, oh, I’ve gotta do something to help,” Kay recalled.

“At that time, I was a single mom and working full time. And so how could I help? I started doing rescuing after work, and that led to this.”

Long story short, Kay took on another fulltime job, unpaid, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week,

and 365 days a year.

“The rescues are often at night because we have nocturnal animals, and that’s when they are out and about and hit on the roads. And that’s when the cats and the dogs attack the possums that are walking across,” she said.

They come from people who know that I do this. They will ring me if they find something.

“All the local vets know that I do this. If people drop things at a vet, the vets also can come and pick them up.”

Take ducklings as an example. Several ducklings are at the moment wandering casually in one of the large aviaries in Kay’s backyard.

“The youngest ones need to be fed normally every four hours. It’s like having a newborn baby, but at once having 80 of them.

“They (wildlife) come from everywhere.

The inevitable after the rescue is rehabilitation and release. Kay scrutinises the science behind every step. She simulates the natural environment for animals, accommodates their habits and needs, and rewilds them as much as she can.

“Ducklings are a good example where you definitely often try to raise them as a group.We try and coordinate between carers,” Kay said.

“If I raise one duckling by itself, it’ll end up imprinting on people. So, we try and talk between the carers and see who’s got others and make a group so that they don’t get humanised.

Australia’s longest-running and most popular all-historic motorsport event, Historic Winton, will be held on 25th and 26th May 2024 at Winton Motor Raceway, near Benalla.

Spectators will see more than 40 historic car, motorcycle and sidecar races and the traditional Sunday Parade Lap of selected display vehicles.

Organised by the Austin 7 Club, the 47th Historic Winton invites spectators to bring their historic cars, bikes, trucks, buses, caravans and other vehicles for a massive car park display.

Kay (middle) with her daughter Hayley (left) and volunteer Catherine Currie (right). 402220

Pictures: ROB CAREW

Brushtail Possums. 402220

Sulphur-crested cockatoo. 402220

Gang-gang cockatoo. 402220

“I spend a lot of time making sure we don’t humanise things so they can be released.”

It is the same with young possums. Kay first places them in a small cage with branches and other simulated natural elements and moves them into a bigger cage when they size up.

“They learn how to live and be as wild as possible before release,” she said.

“And, eventually, they learn to just not want to go near people. So when they’re released, they’re not approaching people.”

Though motivated, dedicated, and determined to make everything work, Kay admits she is really tired, which comes as a natural reaction from someone who has been grinding nonstop for almost two decades.

It is a non-governmental cause with no funding at all.

“I’ve got an almost full-time job to fund this. Sometimes there are small grants, but it’s not really enough to cover the operations for the whole year. It might help with some things,” she said.

“Some people donate some things, but there’s a lot of specialty food that just needs the money to buy. So if you’re raising a baby wombat, for example, you have to have wombat milk that costs quite a lot because not many people buy wombat milk.

“The funding is definitely a challenge. Even all the power, water, and phone bills are huge. The washing machine is going nonstop. My phone rings constantly.

“It’s a struggle, but there’s so much passion for what’s being done.”

Kay said she just could not stop.

“There’s so much of a need, and the need’s getting greater and greater every year,” Kay said.

“The first year I did this, it was about 40 animals for the year. And with climate change and the population increase around Casey, now I’ve got over 1000 animals a year.

“The problem is if there’s an animal that needs rehabilitation and there’s nowhere for it to go, then the vets will just put it down.

“It’s heartbreaking. It hurts to hear something like it is.”

A cruel validation of how reality has gone downhill is the orphaned grey-headed flying foxes in her shelter, a threatened species in Victoria.

“All the pups were about three weeks old in November last year. There started to be a crisis happening across all the bats in Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland. All the moms couldn’t feed their babies properly, and their milk dried up, and they started abandoning their babies,” Kay said.

“Moms were starving. Babies weren’t being fed. Babies were dropping off from mom while she was flying. And then once babies are too big to carry in flight, they hang them in a creche tree. So they will hang together, and the adults fly out. But adults started leaving them there and not coming back for them.

“Then we started having to go down to the [Doveton] colonies every day to find the ones that had been abandoned because they’re all just dying in the trees.

“It is the first time this happened. And they [scientists] think it’s related to loss of habitat, the fires, the floods, the different weather that we’re having now.”

One thing that makes Kay reassured and grateful along the hard way is that she may start alone, but she is and will never be alone.

Now she has about 10 volunteers and a squad of junior volunteers.

“I have experienced volunteers that are here on the two days that I need to go to the office.They’ll come in because someone has to be here all the time,” she said.

“And then I have other volunteers who may be less experienced and need me to be here to help with certain things.

“I also have junior volunteers that come fortnightly, who are like 8 or 9 or 10 years old. That’s my passion to get kids to know.”

Catherine Currie is a new volunteer who started about a month ago. She comes down once a week to clean out the cages, feed animals, and do whatever she can to help. She has been enjoying her work ever since.

“Kay teaches me something every time I come here, which is a lot about how vulnerable they (wildlife) all are and what’s happened with them, what we’re doing to the environment, and how that’s impacting the wildlife,” she said.

“I think the majority of people don’t know about that. It is devastating what we’re doing.

“I am learning a lot about wildlife that I never knew before.

“And the only way you would know that is by volunteering and doing something like this

and listening to Kay and just learning. Then you impart that onto your friends.”

Despite all the efforts and the progress the shelter has made, Kay is concerned about the speed of population increase in Casey and the habitat loss that comes along.

“Every time the road is widened, it’s harder for animals to cross the road. They put roads through bushlands on both sides. Of course, animals are going to get hit,” she said.

“Instead of working around the environments, a lot of the development [they] just clear it all and then say, we’ll plant trees later. But they’ve lost these trees that are 100 years old that have all this habitat, and they plant a tiny shrub and say it’s the same.

“Lots of new houses go right to the edge of the perimeter, and there are no trees anymore in backyards and front yards.”

Kay said the habitat connectivity was important, but it had been disrupted to some extent in Casey.

“Even if there’s not huge amounts of habitat, as long as it’s all connected, animals can make do,” she said.

“But the connection is broken so frequently with roads and houses.

“It’s depressing, isn’t it?

“I think Casey has got a plan to increase canopy cover.They’re finally realising that they need to fix this.”

Kay has spent a lot of time talking to school groups and kids about how they can look after the environment and what could have been done differently in the way they live.

At the end of the day, she believes information and knowledge are the keys to slowly reversing reality.

“The more you know, the more you care,” she said.

“It’s all about information, knowledge, and individuals making choices that will make the difference.

“Just simple little things. Like if every single house had a water dish in the garden on hot days, it would save thousands of animals.”

To know more about Wild Days Wildlife Shelter and help, visit wilddaysws.org/welcome-to-wild-days1

Wild DaysWildlife Shelter was the winner of the 2024 Casey Community Group of theYear.

Grey-headed Flying Foxes. 402220

Duckling. 402220 A young Ringtail Possum is having his milk. 402220

Kay with the Grey-headed Flying Foxes. They are so shy and hang together under a quilt. 402220

Pictures: ROB CAREW

One giant leap for students

By Emma Xerri

Around 250 excited students at Hampton Park Primary School were graced with a visit from Olympian long jumper and two-time Commonwealth Games Silver medalist Brooke Buschkuehl through the Victorian Institute of Sport’s Play On program.

Speaking on her journey to the Olympics and the Commonwealth Games, Brooke spent the morning providing an insight into her own sporting journey, while exploring Play On’s four key topics: female athlete heath, mental health, nutrition and inclusivity.

And having been hard at work with their athletics training all of term one, the visit could not have come at a better time for the students, who are enthusiastically gearing up for their upcoming Athletics Day.

“I think it was really well received,” Brooke said.

“I had a lot of kids coming up to me after the presentation and thanking me for sharing my story and for the information I was able to provide.

“A lot of them seemed really inspired by my story, and that’s what I love about theVictorian Institute of Sport. It’s super rewarding for us athletes to be able to tell our story and share useful information, insights and learnings from our own careers, especially knowing how much I would have benefited from that at their age.

“The main aim is to try and inspire the next generation of kids coming through to chase their own dreams, and not just sporting dreams, but any dreams they may have.

“Some of these students might want a future in elite sports but might not know what it takes, so hopefully they can learn something and make some changes that can have a positive impact on their sporting journey.

“And at most of the schools I’ve been to, you can definitely see how uplifted the students are after the presentation, so it’s a really nice

Downward

Visitors to Wilson

on Friday 19 April were met with an unusual sight, goats, lambs and piglets taking part in a yoga session.

GowiththeFlowYogaheldtheYogaBuddies session, which was designed to promote relaxation, rejuvenation, and a deep connection with oneself and the animals.

Casey Council creative communities manager Emily Clarke said they were looking forward to running the program again in October.

“The Yoga Buddies Program provided visitors toWilson Botanic Park Berwick with a wonderful opportunity to participate in a yoga session, whilst interacting with some gorgeous and cuddly barnyard animals,” she said.

“Feedback received from participants was overwhelmingly positive.”

Star News photographer ROB CAREW captured the cute and cuddly critters making the most of the 45-minute session.

feeling knowing you’re having some sort of impact, even if that’s just on one child.”

But according to Hampton Park Primary School PE teacher Rebecca Sparks, the impacts extend far beyond just one child.

“Teachers have been able to use lessons from her visit in the classroom,” Ms Sparks said.

“Students have been researching her, excited to learn more about someone they’ve actu-

ally met by researching her for their studies.”

But what truly united the students was their shared “shock” over Brooke’s Australian record jump distance of 7.13 metres.

“There were lots of gasps when they actually measured the distance with a tape measure,” Ms Sparks added.

“And every student got to hold her medal, which was a huge opportunity for these kids. Not many would otherwise get the chance to hold a real medal.

“It gives them the sense that they can achieve anything, and that if they give something a go and put their minds to it, that anything is possible, even the Olympics. And this doesn’t just relate to sport.”

For Brooke, who continues to be shocked by the students’ excitement when she walks into a room, even after 10 years with the Victorian Institute of Sport, the benefits of events like this one are definitely mutual.

“It’s a fantastic way to be able to give back,” she said.

“It’s seeing the kids’ faces light up, not only when you enter the room as an Olympian, but after the presentation when they want autographs and photos with you and want to see your medals.

“It just feels like the room is really lit up by your presence, which is a really nice feeling.

“And I think a lot of schools don’t actually know they can access the program and have an athlete visit their school, so if we can get the word out there, then I’m sure more schools could benefit from it.”

The Play On program is free for government schools, with funding from School Sport Victoria (SSV). Non-government schools can also participate for a fee.

For more information about Play On and the Victorian Institute of Sport’s other schoolbased programs, visit vis.org.au/vis-community-programs-victorian-government-schools

Botanic Park Berwick

Christopher (school captain), Brooke Buschkuehl and Chloe (school captain). 401299

WHAT’S ON

Join us 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.

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

NEWS

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

Narre Warren & District Family History Group 35th Birthday Celebrations

The first meeting of the Narre Warren & District Family History Group was held on 10 May 1989. Past and current members and friends are invited to join us as we celebrate our many achievements over the past 35 years.

· Saturday 18 May 2024, Conference Room enter via Casey Radio Entrance, 1/65 BerwickCranbourne Road, Cranbourne. Formalities will commence at 2.30pm. Afternoon tea will be served from 3pm. Cost: $10. Bookings essential: Eileen Durdin, secretary@nwfhg.org. au, 0439 720 557 by Friday, 3 May.

Canteen: A rock and roll night for charity

Come and join us on Saturday 1 June for a night of live music. Band ROUTE 66 playing 50s, 60s, 70s R & R, country rock, and a bit of blues for charity Canteen Kids with cancer.

Location: Scout Hall 24 Mons Parade Noble Park (opposite Noble Park Station car park and ample parking). Doors open 7pm, live music from 7.30pm to 11pm.

Only $20 for an evening of great entertainment, dancing and fun. BYO drinks and nibbles. Free tea and coffee. Maybe a dance competition and raffle. Book a table now with family & friends. Entry $20, pay at door (cash only please). To make booking just call Rob on 0431 511 203 or email robin_wood@optusnet.com.au

Come and support a worthy cause, and have an evening of great entertainment.

All proceeds going to Canteen. Not to be missed!! · Saturday 1 June

Connecting to heritage

Local groups from across Casey and Cardinia united on Sunday 21 April to shine a light on the regions’ shared stories and history, as part of the Casey Cardinia Heritage Festival.

Held at the Berwick Senior Citizens Centre and guided by the National Trust of Australia’s 2024 festival theme of ‘connection’, the event focused on story sharing and reflecting on the rich and diverse history within Casey, Cardinia and the surrounding regions. The free event featured various information

stalls from local historical community groups, book sales, live music and entertainment throughout the day, as well as a Devonshire tea available.

Attendees included the Berwick Mechanics Institute and Free Library, Berwick Pakenham Historical Society, Cranbourne Shire Historical Society, Narre Warren and District Family History Group and the Casey-Cardinia branch of the National Trust.

Blind Bight Community Centre Programs

Art 4 Kids: 4pm – 5.15pm, Every Wednesday, Do you have arty kids aged between 6 – 13 years. Join us for lots of fun activities and experiment with different art techniques, painting, drawing, sculpture and making creative craft. $15.00 per class, for bookings ring Blind Bight Community Centre on 5998 7014

Busy Beans Play Cafe: 10am – 11.30am, every Tuesday

Come along to Blind Bight Community Centres very own pop – up cafe. Lovely play spaces and activities to enjoy in a social environment for both kids and adults. Cost $5 includes tea and coffee. For bookings ring Blind Bight Community Centre on 5998 7014.

Intro to Cake Decorating: 6.30pm – 8.30pm. Learn all the tricks to creating a beautiful cake. Skills will cover fondant work, simple modelling and lots more. BYO Cake. Two dates – 20th & 27th May, $25 per class. For bookings ring Blind Bight Community Centre on 5998 7014.

· 42 Anchorage Drive, Blind Bight, 5998 7014, www.blindbightcommunitycentre.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.

Ann Keys at the Berwick Mechanics Institute stall.

Picture: GARY SISSONS

What do you love most about your job?

Meeting new people; I love to hear their stories.

If you were an animal, what would you be? Probably a turtle. They float through the ocean and live forever.

What was your most memorable moment?

Apart from having my beautiful daughters, it would have to be two moments. The Australia Day Holt Award and Casey Woman of the Year Award.

What were you like as a kid?

Happy, talkative, spontaneous, silly, fun. What event, past or present, would you like to witness?

A concert at Wembley Stadium. Which six dinner guests, dead or alive, would you invite to dinner?

My six would be my friend Danielle who passed away in 2012, my partner who passed away in Jan 2024, John Howard, Jeff Kennett, Princess Diana, and George Michael.

What three words would your friends use to describe you?

Over the top!

What would you do on your perfect ‘day off’?

Coffee and breakfast on the beach followed by a walk, and a day at the hot springs with massage and facials.

Where is your happy place?

The beach for certain.

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

The only dish I cook with absolute certainty is spaghetti bolognese.

Where is your dream holiday destination?

Driving around Australia.

THREE … ways to commemorate Anzac Day

1 Dawn services

There are many ways for the general public to commemorate Anzac Day, with dawn services among the most common way for people to pay their respects.

2 Wreaths

Laying wreaths or flowers at memorials in memory of the fallen is another way to commemorate the day. Wreaths can contain flowers such as laurel, a symbol of honour, rosemary, or other native flora.

3 Rosemary

Wearing rosemary is another form of remembrance; the act is a longstanding tradition where a person would have a sprig of rosemary pinned to an item of clothing on their chest.

Jodie Hollis was presented with Casey’s Woman of the Year Award.

Driving down emissions

The City of Casey has committed to procuring 100 per cent of the council’s corporate electricity supply through renewable energy sources, as part of the Victorian Energy Collaboration (VECO).

Joining 51 other councils from 1 July 2025, VECO represents the largest emissions reduction project undertaken by the local government sector in Australia.

Casey’s chair of administrators Noelene Duff PSM said electricity usage makes up approximately 73 per cent, or around 11,000 tonnes of CO2, of the council’s greenhouse gas emissions profile.

“Transitioning to renewable electricity will contribute significantly towards meeting our net zero target by 2030 for council operations, set out in Casey’s Climate Action Plan 20222030,” she said.

VECO will also provide cost-effective renewable energy generated by Victorian wind farms for the council’s operations through a renewable energy Power Purchase Agreement (PPA).

“Accessing VECO will help reduce council’s total emissions by at least 60,000 tonnes of CO2 over the five-and-a-half-year contract, putting council in a strong position moving forward,” Ms Duff said.

Adopted in February 2022, the Climate Action Plan maps the council’s strategic direction towards achieving their net zero emissions targets, which includes the council addressing climate changes through several methods.

One initiative is replacing approximately 8152 mercury vapour decorative street lights in parks, open spaces, and reserved with LEDs, another is the installation of solar PV and bat-

tery storage systems on council buildings.

The council is also looking to address climate changes by adding electric vehicles to its fleet, improving the energy and water efficiency of its buildings and infrastructure, transitioning gas-consuming buildings to allelectric and ensuring that all new refurbished council buildings have an environmentally sustainable design.

Furthermore, the council is looking to support and empower the local Casey community to reach the net zero emissions goal by 2040 through several ways.

These include access to Solar Savers, a local government initiative that aims to help residents and business owners cut their power bills and carbon footprint by installing solar.

Access to a $200 household energy efficiency rebate to reduce energy costs and improve thermal comfort is also one of the initiatives.

For more information visit the council’s sustainability and climate change website at casey.vic.gov.au/sustainability-climatechange

New schools underway

Clyde North Secondary School (interim name), on Soldiers Road, will be able to accommodate up to 800 students on completion of the first stage of the school.

It will accept only Grade 7 students in its first year of operation, progressing by year level thereafter.

year.

The interim school names will soon be updated with First Nations names, with the naming process already underway in close consultation with Traditional Owner groups. The community will be invited to help choose the two school names via the EngageVictoria website.

Clyde North Primary School (interim name), on Macumba Drive, will offer places for up to 900 students when the school is complete and will accept enrolments from Prep to Grade 6.

Kristy Miller, an educator with over 15 years of experience and a commitment to student development, has been named the school’s principal.

LeanneWinfield has been announced as the school’s principal.

With a career spanning 30 years, Leanne is passionate about reading, writing, literacy, and teacher development.

School facilities will include an administration building, community hub, and learning neighbourhoods, as well as hardcourts, a carpark, and a sports field.

Hutchinson Builders have been appointed to construct the schools.

Find out more and subscribe to email updates about the construction of the new schools, school naming consultation, and more at schoolbuildings.vic.gov.au/newschools

Construction image of the Clyde North Secondary School (interim name). Picture: SUPPLIED

Casey Council is moving towards more sustainable options, joining 51 other councils as part of VECO.

SPORT

1300 for Marc Holt

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Champion local goal kicker Marc Holt crossed the 1300 goal mark in Lang Lang’s 25-point win over Longwarry in the Ellinbank District Football League.

He did it in typical ‘Holty’ style: a big mark in the goalsquare and simple set shot, among three goals he kicked on Saturday night

At the other end of the field was Crow Jason Wells, one of few others who has more than 1000 goals, with that pair sitting one and two in the 2024 EDFL goal kicking.

Having moved to Lang Lang this season after a storied career at Cranbourne either side of a year at Karingal, Holt has embraced the change from a metro league to country footy.

“I really enjoy it,” he said.

“I love country footy for all the reasons that make them great.

“They’re a great bunch of boys and are really committed to football which is really refreshing. It’s fun to get into it and in round 1, the president got up and thanked some people and the number of volunteers he went through was just crazy.

“I reckon there were probably 30-35 volunteers who he thanked and I’m not used to seeing that community impact as much anymore.

“There’s a whole lot of people invested in the club who want to give back.”

The non-enforcement of the 6-6-6 rule in the EDFL has been a welcome change for Holt, unlocking more freedom in his starting position.

While he has had to get up the ground at stages during the first three weeks due to match-situation and personnel, the rule omission could see a throwback to Holt getting isolated deeper.

As well as Holt, the Tigers have the young, bullocking Mitch Davey inside 50 who will have increased opportunities to hit the scoreboard in 2024 with teams needing to put time into Holt.

Despite the undefeated start to the season, Lang Lang still has another level to go as the chemistry with a host of new players improves.

“I’m looking forward to playing against all the other teams and getting a feel for where they’re at,” Holt said.

“Last week at Nyora, you’re playing next to a raceway on a small ground and travelling and I’m loving that side of it.”

“We’ll take the three wins but Saturday’s game was probably the closest we were to full strength so hopefully we can improve.”. Holt’s favourite days out:

· Cranbourne v Doveton, 2008: “We were just working it out under Doug Koop and were down by a fair bit at quarter time. I only had oneatthatstagebutfinishedwith14;thefirst time I had ever kicked double figures. I got sent off late in the third quarter, came back on 10 minutes into the fourth and kicked another four. That started our good run.”

· Cranbourne v Tooradin, 2012 preliminary final: “I had a big fella on me from Tooradin

and he kept me to one goal in the first final and he let me know about it and then I kicked 11.7 on him so I got one back on him.”

· Karingal v Langwarrin, 2019 preliminary final: “They kept me to one goal in the first final and in the Thursday night before the prelims, we got wind that they had put up a photo about me going missing. It got back to me and I let him know before the game and kicked nine.”

· Holt’s toughest opponents: Daniel Battaglin, Jared Goldsack and Nathan Brown Elsewhere in the EDFL, veteran goalkicker Luke James led Nilma Darnum to victory over Catani 20.6 126 to 9.12 66.

An eight goal to four first quarter set the scene for a shootout, but Nilma Darnum was able to contain the visitors, while continuing to pile on the scoring.

Poowong got its first victory of the season and kept Nyora at the foot of the ladder, getting up 13.13 91 to 4.4 28.

In his first year back at the club since before the pandemic, Jake Cochrane kicked four goals for the Magpies.

Michael Urie and Makaio Haywood were important in Ellinbank’s 13.15 93 to 7.6 46 win overYarragon.

Skipper and former VFL-listed Kody Wilson

was a key ingredient in Neerim South’s 8.10 58 to 6.11 47 victory over Trafalgar.

Marc Holt goalkicking chart ·

Determined Demons in great form

In a display of determination and skill the Casey Demons 23 and Under team secured a resounding victory over newcomers Gippsland Stars in round seven of the Victorian Netball League (VNL) at the State Netball Centre.

From the opening whistle the Demons were focused and relentless, steadily building their performance with each passing quarter.

The combination of goalers Malia Seumanutafa and Holly Stephens was nothing short of formidable, as they orchestrated a season-high tally of 64 goals.

Their precision and coordination kept the scoreboard ticking over in Casey’s favour throughout the match.

Meanwhile, defenders Ella Rees and Lupe Fonua exhibited unwavering tenacity, effectively limiting the opportunities for the Stars to make a dent in the Demons’ lead.

Abbey Whitaker, too, showcased her growing prowess in defence, posing yet another challenge for the opposition.

The mid-court rotation proved to be a masterstroke for the Demons, with players seamlessly interchanging throughout the game, ensuring a constant injection of energy and fresh legs.

Mollie Helmot, Charlize Buskermolen, and Jessie Prvulj were instrumental in providing the necessary drive and precision to feed the ball into the shooting circle with accuracy, further bolstering the Demons’ offensive prowess.

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Cranbourne represented in SFNL squad

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Five Cranbourne senior players have been selected in the Southern Football Netball League interleague squad set to play a one-off match against Riddell District Football Netball League on 11 May at RSEA Park.

Star defender Brandon Osborne, midfield duo Zak Roscoe and Jarryd Barker, ruck Mick Boland and the fit Nick Darbyshire all made the 41-man squad.

Osborne has long been an esteemed name in local footy circles, sutting down some of the competition’s best forwards, including Tom Bellchambers on the weekend. His ability to give up significant height and size and still outbody his direct opponent will make him hard to overlook at selection.

Roscoe came second in the league best and fairest in 2023, with his fitness and power crucial in Cranbourne’s grand final run, while Barker complemented him sublimely.

Boland has long been underrated but has had a strong start to 2024 and is well-regarded at Livingston Reserve, while many of Darbyshire’s best games have come at RSEA Park as he performs strongly on the big grounds and big stage.

Teenagers KyWilliams and Brad Frater have both been selected in the under-19s interleague squads.

Williams played in last year’s senior finals series for Cranbourne as a 17-year-old and will be a key member of Cranbourne’s next generation of midfielders.

Frater overcame an injury setback in 2023 to play against Cheltenham in the seniors in round 1.

Narre South pair Josh Davis and Lochie Wrigley are also in the under-19s squad, Endeavour Hills quintet Alesha White, Alyssa Weston, Ashleigh Russell and HarmonyThomas all made the women’s side, alongside Hallam’s Amy Riordan and Jessie-Lee Kirkpatrick.

Liv Hamilton stood as a pillar of consistency in defence, offering stability and composure amidst the fast-paced exchanges on the court.

A particularly noteworthy return was that of Selene Chadwary, who marked her first game of 2024 after battling through injury challenges.

Chadwary’s presence provided a significant boost to the team, further reinforcingtheDemons’depthandresilience.

As this young and dynamic group continues to grow and gel together, their string of victories continues to mount, showcasing their potential as a force to be reckoned with in theVNL.

Looking ahead, the Demons face a formidable challenge in the form of the Peninsula Waves for ANZAC Round at Casey Stadium.

This special occasion sees the neighbouring clubs coming together to commemorate ANZAC Day, transcending the boundaries of sport to honour something much larger.

Fans are encouraged to arrive early for the ANZAC Service at 6.30pm, preceding the Championship game at 7pm and the 23 and Under clash at 8.20pm.

Tickets are available on Try Booking or at the door, promising an evening of thrilling netball action and solemn remembrance.

-Rebekah Bogos

Nick Darbyshire has played some strong games at RSEA Park. 297195 Picture: ROB CAREW

Casey Demons and Gippsland Stars come together after the Demons 23 and Under team continued its great start to the season. 403407 Picture: SUPPLIED

Marc Holt kicked his 1300th goal on Saturday. 362400

Picture: GARY SISSONS

Dream draft for local duo

By Marcus Uhe

Two basketballers from Melbourne’s South East were part of the latest intake of talent to the Women’s National Basketball League (WNBA) in the United States last week, selected in the 2024WNBA Draft.

Former Berwick College student Jaz Shelley had her name called by the Phoenix Mercury at pick 29, while Southside Flyers champion in the Women’s National Basketball League (WNBL), Nyadiew Puoch was the final pick of the first round, taken by the Atlanta Dream at pick 12.

South Australian Isobel Borlase was also drafted by Atlanta, at pick 20, making it a trio of Australians entering the league from the 36 available selections.

Shelley’s selection was a long time coming, having spent five years playing College Basketball in the United States after winning the WNBL Rookie of theYear award back in 2018 as a member of the Melbourne Boomers.

Basketball Academy Director at Berwick College, Chris Pentland, began observing Shelley when she first arrived at the school and identified early that she was a player of promise.

“She’s a great leader, great learner, the type of kid that you pinch yourself that you get to work with because they almost take everything you offer them and do extra,” Pentland said.

“It’s one of the things that we talk about with the kids that, you can have the talent, but a lot of it’s on themselves and she does the extras, she did all that; showed leadership, she was on time to training, prepared, ready, looks for advice, takes advice, works out what’s best for her.

“She was always extremely single-minded, knew where she wanted to go and did everything to get there.

“She had an amazing feel for the game, an extremely high IQ, obviously an amazing athlete, but she had a passion for the game.”

The 6’3” point guard who was drafted from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Cornhuskers led her team in assists per game in the 2023/24 season (5.7) with her crowning moment coming in the semi final of the Big-Ten Women’s Basketball Tournament in March, when her season-high 30 points and nine assists helped her side advance to the final, returning the school’s basketball program to the spotlight after a lean period.

Her name will go down in folklore at the University after setting Huskers’ tournament records for points, assists and made threes in the 2024 Big-Ten Tournament, and finishing her career fourth in the school’s history for made three-point shots.

At the Mercury she’ll be one of three Australian guards, with Amy Atwell and Rebecca Allen already in Arizona as friendly faces.

While one of the most decorated players in the history of the WNBA and the league’s alltime leading scorer, DianaTaurasi, will provide Shelley with the opportunity to learn from one of the sport’s biggest names as a teammate.

“Diana I think will probably be one that Jaz will hang her shoes closest to and learn heaps from,” Pentland said.

“That‘s her asset, she was always coachable and willing to listen and will do all the extras they wanted her to, to make sure she can fulfill and do well at the next level.

“Anytime you go to that next level it’s pretty cut-throat, but she will give herself every opportunity I’m sure.”

Shelley remains involved with the school as a External Basketball Academy Coaching Staff member, having contributed her knowledge and resources to current students during her trips home between semesters as a university student.

While her opportunities to mentor the school’s next generation will dwindle in the coming years as her professional commitments take hold, she’ll be influencing from afar as a role model, and an example of what the students can achieve.

“They get to know her and fall in love with her, a lot of the girls,” Pentland said.

“She’s been amazing in that role.

“We’ve been lucky at the school, we’ve had two get drafted to the WNBA and both have stayed involved in our program.

“(The students) have been able to see two girls go across to the WNBA and see that it is a possibility, if you want to work hard enough and have the dedication and talent to do it.

“It was extremely exciting for the school, but not only the school, the whole community including her family.

“It’s a big group of people that invest in a talented kid like Jaz and then to see her reach those goals was amazing.”

Pouch, meanwhile, was one of 15 prospects invited to New York to attend the draft last week, where her name was called with the final pick of the first round by the Atlanta Dream.

It capped a whirlwind few days for the for-

“Old stager” Billy takes the top prize at Cranbourne

Saturday saw a cooler day for the start of week three of the Lifestyle Communities

Canadian Pairs Social Bowls tournament at Cranbourne Bowling Club.

At the halfway mark of the tournament, our weekly winners were an old stager, Billy Bradbury, and one of our newer members, Chris Sharpe.

Both gentlemen had a great day on the greens, but Billy took the top weekly prize, with Chris running a very close second.

We congratulate both the winners and invite our members and friends to get your names down quick for this week’s competition.

-Derek Maguire

ward, who played for Dandenong Rangers in the NBL1 South Women’s competition in Hobart on Friday night.

Pouch averaged 21.6 points and 8.6 rebounds for the Rangers during her 21 games at the club before being drafted, and was a member of the Southside Flyers’ championship winning side in the 2023/24 WNBL competition.

Despite not taking the traditional path of playing College Basketball in the United States, where the majority of draft selections hone their craft, Pouch’s exploits in Australia were enough to see the 19-year-old selected as one of the draft pool’s premium talents.

At 6’3” (190cm) she has an excellent combination of length and speed that can see her play multiple positions on the floor, and with the Flyers she was up close and personal with one of Australia’s greatest ever players in Lauren Jackson.

Rangers coach Larissa Anderson said the club and the Dandenong Basketball Association is “beyond proud” of not only Puoch’s accomplishment, but of her as a person, and player.

The precociously talented teenager played her entire junior basketball career at Dandenong,outsideofabriefperiodattheBasketball Australia Centre of Excellence, and returned to her home club to play in the NBL1 South.

“It is such a huge achievement, one of many thatI’msureistocomeforher,”Andersonsaid.

“For me, this is the second year that I have been able to work with her, and she is not only an amazing athlete, but is a beautiful young lady.

“I know that she was nervous going over there and quite overwhelmed, and then when she actually got drafted you could see the emotion on her.

“The sky’s the limit for this young athleteshe’s got all the goods, mentally and physically and she’s only 19.

“It’s pretty exciting to think about what she can achieve and where she can go, and the scary bit is, that she’s got so much more learning and improving to do.”

Anderson’s sentiment was echoed by those in charge at the Dream, who made the decision to select Puoch on Tuesday.

“She’s a long athletic wing, who immediately brings energy to your team,” General Manager and Executive Vice President at the Dream, Dan Padover told the team’s website.

“We really like what the future could hold for this 19-year-old.”

The upcoming WNBA season begins in mid-May.

Bill Bradbury receives his $50 first prize from organiser Karen Hickson after winning week three of the social bowls tournament at Cranbourne. 403413

Chris Sharpe was runner-up on week three at Cranbourne.

Former Berwick College student Jaz Shelley was selected by the Phoenix Mercury in the WNBA Draft last week. Picture: AMANDA LOMAN/AAP

Nyadiew Puoch (left) with WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert after being selected by the Atlanta Dream during the WNBA basketball draft in New York. Picture: AAP/ADAM HUNGER

Conversion costs Cannons

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Casey’s women will rue an inability to convert after going down 2-1 to 2023 semi finalists Monash University on Sunday.

The Cannons dominated general play and took a 1-0 lead into the quarter time break courtesy of Mikayla McDonald, but surrendered the lead just before halftime.

Monash Uni capitalised on successive short corners to finish the first half, taking a 2-1 lead into the break despite struggling for rhythm throughout the day.

The challenge was then handed to Casey to reel them back in, and despite having posses-

sion and territory, were unable to find the back of the net.

Underlining the frustration, Casey finished with five short corners to the hosts’ two.

“We’re getting the game on our terms, we’re just not capitalising when we need to,” said coach Andrew Harris.

Casey’s cause has been hindered by a brutal draw to start the season, backing up a first round loss to Geelong, which was last year in Premier League, with the match against Monash University.

The challenge continues this weekend against reigning premier Yarra.

Despite proving that their style of hockey is up to the standard under a new coach, Casey will be desperate to bank a win in a competition tightened by the reconfiguration and demotion of several Premier clubs.

“We’ve been working well developing our new gameplan and are showing great signs during general play, we just haven’t taken advantage of the opportunities when presented to us and conversely when the ball has gone down through lifted oppoirtunities, they have scored,” Harris said.

“The girls have been excellent and very positive. Even after two tough losses, the willingness to commit to the gameplan is there and

the improvement will come later in the year.”

Leandra McLaughlin was solid through the midfield, while Emma Harris was tough with a series of defensive efforts.

There was also a positive story in the women’s reserves, with thirds debutant Chantelle Calado impressing so greatly in her first match for the club, she was selected to back up and play in the reserves game, where she held her own.

Meanwhile, the men’s rattling start to the season has continued with a 4-2 win over St Bede’s, with Tristan Chaffey and Craig Moore scoring two goals each.

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Pictures:GARYSISSONS

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