News - Cranbourne Star News - 2nd May 2024

Reflecting on service

Pearcedale resident John Goldspink served the country in the Second World War when he was stationed in Papua New Guinea in the medical department. Now 98-years-old, he’s opened up on his experience.

John was enlisted in the medical department on 22 March 1944 when he was an 18-year-old teenage boy. It was a voluntary move. Long inspired by his neighbour who returned from the First World War, John felt compelled to defend Australia.

He later had infantry training in Cowra, New South Wales and medical training in Darley,Victoria. On 15 January 1945, he was shipped to Bougainville, a part of Papua New Guinea.

Story page 11

Free bins dumped

By Ethan Benedicto

Following the State Government’s kerbside reforms, Casey Council has ceased the provision of free extra rubbish bins for households of six or more.

The change means that no new “exemptions“ would be provided for large households from 22 April, and the existing 10,000-plus free extra bins will be removed by July 2025. With 14 months until it comes into force, resident Maral Nikola, the eldest in a family of six, is concerned about not just hers, but other large families’ waste accumulation.

“Where is the garbage supposed to go? It depends on what everyone’s using and how often they’re using it and whatnot, but you know, garbage does accumulate really, really fast,” she said.

Addressed in Casey’s most recent agenda

on 16 April, the extra bins policy was found to be financially unsustainable, open to misuse and countered waste minimisation principles.

The report further details that the free bins cost $1.2 million per annum, which adds $10 to $12 to the residential Waste Service Charge for each household Casey-wide. That cost was expected to grow by $115,000 each year.

The exemptions have been in place for more than 20 years, with Casey currently providing 6796 garbage bins and 3131 recycling bins that do not attract a charge.

The other exemption for residents with medical conditions will however continue.

Dr Harpreet Singh Kandra, senior lecturer at Federation University’s Institute of Innovation, Science and Sustainability, supports the council’s initiative towards better waste management.

“The root of the problem is waste, and it’s responsible for three per cent of the carbon emissions in Australia,” he said.

“Particularly Casey Council, it’s growing massively and they’re (council) projecting a growth of 40 per cent by 2046.

“And when you talk about a smart city, you have to think about sustainability, and they’re recognising that. If we look at the volume of waste, it will obviously increase as more people come and make Casey their place of residence.“

Dr Kandra said the current go-to strategy of adding more landfill will only create more greenhouse gas emissions, which is “against the [council’s] objective of becoming net zero in the next few years”.

“The other option for them is to start convincing the community to reduce their waste

generation, and again if you provide more bins, you’re actually giving [people] an opportunity to produce more waste.“

Casey’s acting manager for sustainability and waste Thomas Johannsen said that the exemption for households of six or more “does not align with the State Government Kerbside Reforms”.

“[It] is also open to misuse as there is no efficient way of confirming eligibility without breaching privacy of residents in the households.

“Residents who are wanting to reduce their waste are encouraged to place food waste loose in the food and garden waste bin - this action will send less waste to landfill and help create nutrient-rich compost which is sent to farms all around Victoria,” he said.

Continued page 4

John Goldspink taking the lead in this year’s Cranbourne Anzac Day march. 402226

Picture: ROB CAREW

Time to stand for Casey

Do you want to have a role in shaping the future of the City of Casey?

Are you passionate about making a positive contribution to your community?

To support potential candidates for the upcoming Council elections in October, the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) in partnership with Council will be hosting an in-person Stand for Council information session on Wednesday 29 May at Bunjil Place, Narre Warren.

The session will be held form 6.30 pm to 8.30 pm and will help you to further consider the roles

Keep batteries out of your bins

Putting batteries in your bins poses fire risks not only to your property, but to the people who collect your recycling and waste.

This year, there have been seven ‘hot loads’ or in-truck battery fires across the City of Casey. If you want to get rid of your batteries, please don’t put these in your kerbside bins. Instead, take the used batteries to your nearest battery drop-off so they can be recycled.

For more information or to find your nearest battery drop-off, search ‘how to get rid of waste and unwanted items’ on our website.

Open Kindergarten Afternoon

The City of Casey delivers three and four-year-old funded programs in each of our quality kindergartens.

All Council managed kindergartens will be hosting an open afternoon on Wednesday 15 May from 1.30 pm to 3.00 pm. Open afternoons are a great opportunity to:

• visit your local City of Casey kindergarten

• experience our play-based programs

• meet the current teaching team

• explore a sessional kindergarten program with your child prior to the start of their kindergarten year

Scan the QR code to discover which of our kindergartens are hosting an open afternoon.

and responsibilities of a councillor and the importance of this elected position, the wide range of issues you will be required to make decisions about and the time commitment. Registrations are essential.

For more information and to register for the session, please visit the ‘Stand for Council’ page on the MAV website.

Fire Danger Period

The Fire Danger Period for the City of Casey will end on Wednesday 1 May.

If you are considering burning off on your property once the fire restrictions are lifted, you will require a permit from Council. Permits are only valid outside of the CFA declared Fire Danger Period, which is usually between the cooler periods of May to November. Ensure you are burning off safely by:

• Checking if any fire restrictions are in force.

• Checking our Local Law requirements for burning off. A permit is required for all burning off in the City of Casey.

• Checking the weather forecast for the day of your planned burn-off and the few days afterwards. If it’s going to be windy, you should postpone your burn.

• Removing flammable material from around your burn site to reduce the risk of outbreak.

• Having a water supply on hand to extinguish a possible outbreak.

To apply for your permit to burn-off, scan the QR code or visit the ‘apply to burn-off’ page on our website.

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

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

• Corporate Suite of Documents 2024-25: you are invited to have your say on our suite of corporate documents, which includes our Draft Budget 2024/25 and Draft Capital Works Program 2024/25.

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

The Draft Budget Report, which includes the Draft Budget 2024/25 and Draft Capital Works Program 2024/25, Draft Council Plan 2021-25 –Year 4 Review, Draft Annual Action Plan 2024/25, Draft Financial Plan 2024/25 – 2033/34 and Draft Schedule of Fees and Charges 2024/25 are now available for community feedback.

Make a submission or complete a survey via Casey Conversations before 5.00 pm on Wednesday 8 May 2024.

DOVETON

$3,205,122

The renewal of the 50 metre pool at Doveton Pool in the Park

NARRE WARREN SOUTH

$1,500,000

* The upgrade of the Strathaird Reserve Pavilion, Narre Warren South

CLYDE NORTH

$8,600,000

STREET LIGHTING

$2,494,140

The conversion of street lighting from Mercury V to LED

$1,837,410

The implementation of Greening Casey 10-year Planting Plan

NARRE WARREN

$1,682,360

$1,521,370

* The upgrade of the Grices Road Recreation Reserve Pavilion, Berwick

** Project in partnership with the State and Federal Governments GREENING CASEY 10-YEAR PLANTING PLAN

* The redevelopment of Ray Bastin Reserve, Narre Warren ROAD IMPROVEMENTS

$1,834,000

** Improvements to Tyabb-Tooradin Road (between South Boundary Road and Baxter-Tooradin Road, Pearcedale)

* Project in partnership with the State Government

Springleaf Recreation Reserve, Clyde North CLYDE NORTH

$5,400,000

* Hardy’s Road Family and Community Centre, Clyde North

$2,846,090

* The upgrade of the Tooradin Recreation Reserve Pavilion

Mother’s reasons unclear

By Violet Li

A State Coroner was unable to determine the reasons behind a Dandenong North mother killing herself and her two children in Cranbourne West in March 2022.

On the night of 24 March, 37-year-old JasmineThomas drove her two children, six-yearold Evlyn and three-year-old Carolyn, to an area along the Western Port Highway in Cranbourne West, parked there, and deliberately set fire to the car the three of them were sitting in. They were found deceased in the car once the fire was extinguished.

CCTV footage showed that before the fatal incident, Ms Thomas purchased a fuel container which she later filled with petrol.

State Coroner Judge John Cain concluded that it was difficult to accurately determine the reasons behind the fatal incident. He presented two conclusions in separate reports for the mother and the children.

In the report on Ms Thomas, he concluded that she suffered an episode of psychosis.

In Evlyn and Carolyn’s cases, he found that “Ms Thomas was experiencing significant stress in her relationship and there was evidence of a number of relevant family violence risk factors in the lead up to the fatal incident”.

During the investigation, the husband James Palakamannil reported to the coroner judge that his wife might have had post-natal depression and during Covid she became paranoid.

It was “a big shame to acknowledge such

problems in their community”, Mr Palamannil said.

Judge Cain discovered that in June 2021, Ms Thomas told her mother she was upset about “issues in her marriage” and was diagnosed by her GP with mild depression. She was referred to a psychologist and denied having any suicidal thoughts or intent in the consultation. She said the lack of family support and the stress from balancing her work and caring responsibilities contributed to an increase in arguments between her and her husband.

In January 2022, two months before the fa-

tal incident, Ms Thomas told her mother she wanted a divorce.

As Judge Cain found Ms Thomas’s actions with her children constituted “family violence”, he examined the previous relevant circumstances.

It was found that Mr Palakamannil reported her to the police for property damage in September 2021. He said to the police that he was not in fear, but Ms Thomas had been increasingly physically and verbally abusive since January 2021.

A Family Violence Intervention Order (FVIO) was issued to Ms Thomas in November.

In the reports on the two children, Judge Cain commented: “Whilst it appears that professional services identified Ms Thomas as the alleged perpetrator of family violence, the available evidence suggests that this was not an accurate depiction of the relationship.”

However later in his report, the judge wrote: “From the available evidence, it is difficult to accurately determine what was occurring for this family in the lead up to the fatal incident, however we note that there may have been issues of misidentification in context of family violence. There is insufficient engagement with services however to conclusively make a determination on this point.”

Mr Palakamannil attended the coroner’s court on the day the report was delivered.

He told the court that he never would imagine laying down all of the most important people in his life at the same time.

“When you see the coffin go down with all of your favorite people, your life changes. You’ll never be the same.You’ll never see them, touch them, feel them again,” he said in tears.

“Suddenly, 10 years of my life just disappeared.”

He said he wished his wife acknowledged and sought help.

“I wish she had people who understood her,” he said.

“She was too lonely. She struggled to connect or engage with people and make friends. When she couldn’t anymore, I believe she thought the end would be a relief.”

· Lifeline: 13 11 14

Free bins dumped: No new exemptions for large households

From page 1

According to a State Government website, a new four-stream waste and recycling system is coming, with separate bins for glass, food organics and garden organics, mixed recyclables and household rubbish.

Mr Johannsen added that “discontinuing the new exemptions immediately will prevent the number of services to be cancelled and bins retrieved from increasing by approximately 1200 services”.

“Fewer waste services will also reduce the amount of waste to landfill per property and therefore generation of greenhouse gases,” he said.

Beginning 1 July 2025, any additional garbage or recycling bins that have been provided free of charge to households with six or more people in one property will be removed.

“Delaying the cancellation of existing services to July 2025 will allow for project planning and communication with affected residents,” Mr Johannsen said.

“The delayed removal of services will also provide ample time for affected residents to

“will not be enough time”.

“I think we’re all just really busy people and it’s really hard to keep up with a schedule or a maintenance schedule, if you will.

“Are people supposed to hold rubbish in their houses for over a week? Especially with the bigger households, you know.”

Ms Nikola also lamented the trial and error phase that all new processes undergo, emphasising the difficulties families like hers, and larger ones, would then have.

“We have two green bins and one blue bin and at times it’s fine, but for whatever reason we have an event, or just simply that everyone has a few extra things this time around - for the green bins unless they plan on taking them every second or third day we would not be able to handle it.“

“Where the council is saying that we won’t give you an extra bin, [they’re] giving those families an opportunity to re-look at their waste management reduce the waste, recycle and reuse as much as possible - and I think that’s the right step in the right direction.“

Possible positive impacts of this proposed change also move further towards improvement to waste management, with Dr Kandra saying that “if the council has to spend more money on waste management, then obviously ratepayers will also have to pay more rates towards the waste, right?”

“When you reduce your waste, you are actually reusing your resources in a better way, which means that you are actually trying to reduce your cost of living - if you are producing more waste then that means you’re not using your resources properly,” he said.

transition to alternate arrangements.

“Council will communicate with all impacted households regarding the policy change and also prior to retrieval of the bins, which will be recycled in the manufacture of new bins,” he said.

However, according to Ms Nikola, this

Dr Kandra, while understanding the struggles that larger families would go through, sees this as an opportunity for the entire municipality to reduce its waste.

“There is a lot of opportunity for people to share the waste, learn better practices of waste management from each other,” he said.

Further compacting loose bags in garbage bins is one practice he suggested that families take more heed of, as well as ensuring that the right waste goes in the right bin.

“If everyone thinks [of] this as a blessing in disguise, then I think it’s an opportunity to contribute towards Australia becoming net zero,” Dr Kandra said.

Dr Harpreet Singh Kandra from Federation University sees the policy reform as the right step forward in sustainability and a community-wide improvement in waste management. Picture: SUPPLIED

Accused hoon to face trial

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

An alleged high-speed hoon from Berwick will contest up to 110 charges in a trial lasting an estimated 10 days, Dandenong Magistrates’ Court has heard. Sushant Mittal is accused of speeding up to 262km/h, drag racing on freeways and seat-swapping with a passenger while driving on the Monash. He had rejected a sentence indication in March that included a jail term if he pleaded guilty.

At a contest mention on 30 April, a police prosecutor indicated he’d call 10 witnesses, including three expert witnesses, to give evidence over about 10 days.

The police informant who charged Mittal was expected to present a“substantial number” of exhibits over about two days, a prosecutor told the court. Another two days would be re-

IN BRIEF

Asbestos again

Asbestos has been found for the second time in as many weeks in the City of Casey, with the material found in a mulched garden bed at a Clyde North reserve.

The council identified suspected asbestos from a small sample in a garden bed at Clydevale Avenue Reserve, with test results since confirming the sample was positive for asbestos, council said on Friday 26 April.

Council said it took immediate action and installed temporary fencing to prevent public access to the area. Clean-up works were set to begin the week commencing Monday 29 April.

The first asbestos sample in Casey was found in Minihans Reserve in Cranbourne in early April.

The City of Casey reported to the EPA that small pieces of bonded asbestos-containing material had been discovered in a mulched garden bed at Minihans Reserve in Cranbourne, following a proactive inspection program that has so far assessed 30 locations. EPA officers attended the site on Tuesday 16 April.

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

Council completed clean-up works at Minihans Reserve, and a clearance certificate was issued for the site. The site has since reopened.

Council’s proactive inspection program of parks and playgrounds across Casey will continue over the coming weeks.

Fatal shooting

Police are investigating a fatal drive-by shooting in Hampton Park that killed a Cranbourne man on the morning of Saturday 27 April.

A man was located in a vehicle on Bride Avenue with a gunshot wound at about 12.30am.

The 30-year-old Cranbourne man died at the scene. Police were told a Ford Ranger Utility was seen driving away from the area.

A burnt-out vehicle was located at Sweeney Reserve in Berwick just after 2.30am and police are yet to determine if it is linked to the investigation.

Detectives are currently on-scene investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at crimestoppersvic.com.au

Woman dies following collision

A Cranbourne woman died following a collision in Ballan in early April.

It is understood four motorbikes collided on the Western Freeway at about 1.50pm on 7 April.Officers were told all four riders, who were riding in a convoy of seven motorbikes, came off their respective motorbikes.

Three riders were taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The fourth rider, a 64-year-old Cranbourne woman, was airlifted to hospital with lifethreatening injuries.

She succumbed to her injuries and died in hospital later.

The exact circumstances surrounding the crash are yet to be determined and investigations remain ongoing.

Police will prepare a report for the coroner.

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

quired for the expert evidence, he said.

Defence lawyer Sean Hardy told the court that he expected to call two witnesses.

He said he had no reason to dispute the estimated length of the trial.

The charges relate to 12 alleged high-speed driving incidents in Hallam, Clyde North, Berwick, Dandenong North, Eumemmerring, Mulgrave, Blackburn North, Glen Waverley, Parkville, MtWaverley, Box Hill North,Wheelers Hill and Melbourne in 2022 and 2023.

They include counts of reckless conduct endangering life, dangerous driving, a Pplater driving a prohibited vehicle, driving at dangerous speed, unlawful assault and driving a vehicle in a race or speed trial on

a highway.

On 5 March, Mittal rejected magistrate Fran Medina’s sentence indication of jail and a community corrections order if he pleaded guilty.

His lawyer at the time had submitted for a three-year CCO and three-year loss of licence with a non-conviction.

On 30 April, magistrate Jacinta Studham told Mittal that the sentence indication would have included a discount for pleading guilty. By contesting the charges, Mittal had lost his entitlement to a discount if found guilty, she said. Mittal, who is on bail conditions including a ban on driving, will appear at a mention hearing at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on 21 May.

Sushant Mittal will appear at a mention hearing at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on 21 May.

NEWS Friends recount history

By Ethan Benedicto

As members gathered to recount their past and put the pieces of their extensive history together, the Friends of Wilson Botanic Park Berwick’s high tea on Wednesday 24 April was a huge success.

Held at the visitor’s centre atWilson Botanic Park, Berwick, the event gave members both past and present the opportunity to share and reminisce about their experiences at the park and also have them recorded as a contribution to the Friends’ history project.

Paula Taylor, coordinator of the history group project and a member for over 18 years, said that “everyone enjoyed looking at the display of photographs and posters, reflecting on how much the park and they themselves had changed over the past 30 years”.

“Fond memories of members who have passed away were shared and their legacy was applauded,” she said.

A broad range of entertaining stories were gathered on the day, with Ms Taylor keen on many more to be collected from other members who were unable to attend the event.

“Their immediate response when asked about the biggest changes they noticed over the years was ‘the parking’, which brought a peal of laughter from everyone,” Ms Taylor said.

A highlight of the event was the attendance

“When asked about the state of the park when they first joined the Friends, Margaret and Jim Knowles recalled that the park was bare and muddy but there was plenty of parking.

Record crowd at service

Hampton Park Progress Association had the largest gathering to date at this year’s Anzac Day service.

Guests included Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas, Holt MP Cassandra Fernando, Neil Angus on behalf of South-Eastern Metropolitan MP Ann-Marie Hermans, Hampton Park Secondary College, Hampton Park Primary School, Hampton Park Fire Brigade, Hampton Park Community House, Family First Victoria Party, Hampton Park Progress Association committee and members, Air League - Berwick Squadron, Hampton Park

OPINION

LENSCAPE

Men’s Shed, Neighbourhood Watch Casey, and members of the public.

Damien Rosario hosted the proceedings and Natalie Pollard played the bugle.

President Luke Delutis made the welcome address.

“We are pleased to see such outstanding attendance at our local Anzac Day dawn service. Our patronage grows each year,” he said.

“We look to keep alive the memories of those who have fallen to protect our freedoms. Lest we forget.”

of Mrs Neloo Kreltszheim, the artist who painted the prize-winning autumnal watercolour of the Visitor’s Centre which hangs in the centre’s foyer.

The Friends’ current president, Mrs Jenny Duncan commented during the closing event how significant the history project was, saying that “it is important that all users of the park, now and into the future, realise that this park was built largely by volunteers”.

“That the park would not be what it is today without their efforts; I hope the Friends’ story is an inspiration to all – working together with the City of Casey – volunteers can and do make a huge difference in the community,” she said.

THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN

Thumbs up

To the gentlemen who used his own ride on mower to mow along the footpath in Nar Nar Goon from the pub to the roundabout! Shame the council can’t maintain such a small section of grass along the path that we use to walk on every morning along with students/parents using it to go to St James Primary School.

Thumbs up

To the Rotary Club of Casey for a magnificent Holland Festival last Saturday.

Thumbs up

To Cardinia Council for not giving up on advocating for the State Government to duplicate McGregor Road at the railway.

Thumbs up

To The Cornerstone cafe on Anzac Day for the beautiful coffee after the dawn service.

Thumbs down

To the roadworks in Officer.

Thumbs up

To the amazing turnout for the dawn service on Anzac day. It was nice to see the ANZAC spirit still lives on.

Group shot, from left, Damien Rosario, Wayne Smith, Graham Trapnell, Russell and Elaine Barnes, Sanja Dinek, Luke Delutis, Tania Sacco, Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas and Holt MP Cassandra Fernando. Picture: SUPPLIED

From left, Matt and Liliea Krafft, Neloo Kreltszheim and Peter Fleming.

Marg and Jim Knowles flicking through one of the many collages during the event.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Triplets Anneke, Roisin and Victoria snuggled into a giant clog at

Picture: ROB CAREW

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Integrity drives candidate

By Violet Li

The City of Casey election campaign has kicked off, with a Hallam resident announcing his intention to run as a candidate in the October elections.

A Casey resident for more than 15 years, and from a law background, Ezatullah Alam has worked at the Federal Government, the State Government, and here at his doorstep, Casey Council as an integrity officer from 2022 to 2023. He is also a Labor member.

“I think my experience in the government sector and the skills I have, the general skills and the legal skills, will help guide my decisions and make the best decisions in the best interest of the community,” he said.

“A law background does give you that critical skills. You analyse the situation. You think about the consequences and not just blindly make decisions.”

Mr Alam said his area of expertise was the conduct rules for public servants and he had always been very passionate about the notions of integrity and accountability.

That landed him in the integrity officer role at Casey Council two years ago.

“Integrity is an important part of every organisation, whether it’s a council or it’s any other organisation,” he said.

As an integrity officer, Mr Alam processed Freedom of Information (FOI) requests and

looked after privacy breaches. He took care of the Office of the Victorian Information Commissioner (OVIC) reviews and complaints made to the Ombudsman by

Change amid kinder reform

By Violet Li

Casey Council says it is financially unviable to bridge the kindergarten infrastructure gap under the State Government’s free childcare reform.

The council has instead endorsed a new service model that will only build kindergarten infrastructure for population growth, not the full demand required under the State Government’s free childcare reform.

The April council meeting dropped the outcome of a recent kindergarten service review. The review was conducted in response to the State Government’s Best Start, Best Life (BSBL) reforms, which outline an increase in hours for three and fouryear-old kindergarten in the coming years.

As part of its review, council examined the impact of the reforms, the demand from population growth, and the priorities of Casey’s current and future kindergarten families. The review found that by 2036, an additional 5800 kindergarten places would need to be provided by the sector, which is more than double the size of the council’s current kindergarten service.

The outcome recommended building infrastructure for population growth only. Demand modelling forecasts six new kindergartens with a total of 28 rooms, which would lead to a construction cost of $48.7 million.

Council believed that the arrangement would “reduce the risk to its financial sustainability” and the BSBL reform was“likely to place Casey in the position of providing infrastructure beyond council’s financial means and prioritise kindergarten infrastructure over other important community infrastructure”.

Casey’s chair of administrators Noelene Duff PSM said the council would continue to deliver kindergarten services, however, there would be no increase in staffing levels.

“We will continue to offer services to our community in a way which is within our capacity,” she said.

“While we’ll keep doing what we’ve always done, and that’s offering high-quality kindergarten service delivery, we’ll also have to work with other providers in the sector.”

The new service model will also decrease the number of sites managed by the council in the coming years and procure new early

years managers to deliver kindergarten services from sites it no longer manages.

“Council will package groupings of sites and run an Expression of Interest and alternative early year managers will deliver some of the kindergarten services, at various sites from 2026, to cater to the reforms and additional demand,” Ms Duff said.

Ms Duff said as sites move to other providers to manage, all current kindergarten staff will retain their employment, and where necessary, will be relocated to remaining council kindergartens to enable council to provide the additional hours required at these sites. “Council will work with the Department of Education to find another provider to operate the two kindergartens on school sites that we currently manage. This process will commence as soon as practicable,” she said.

“Given current workforce challenges and taking on the feedback from the market, a staged implementation of the new service model will be needed, to ensure the sector can respond appropriately. It is anticipated that this will take five or six years to fully implement this new service model.”

Ms Duff said council’s priority is to ensure all future Casey families can access high-quality and free kindergarten services in their local area, regardless of who is delivering the service. “Council will continue to play a strong role in kindergarten service through service delivery (within our current staffing capacity), the provision of current and future growth infrastructure, and management of the Central Registration and Enrolment Service,” she said.

“We will also advocate strongly that the State Government, not-for-profit, and private sector also play their part in delivering this reform.”

A Department of Education spokesperson said any further decisions regarding the future of Casey Council’s kindergartens should be made in consultation with the community – including the families who use and value the services the council provides. “We will continue to work closely with the council as it considers its future role as a service provider,“ they said.

“Victorian Government funding for council-runkindersinVictoriahasincreased significantly since 2022 – with Free Kinder delivering an average 30 per cent to 40 per cent increase in funding per child compared to average parent fees that were previously charged, on top of existing funding streams.”

members of the public in relation to the services the City of Casey was providing. He ran awareness activities about FOI and privacy breaches within the organisation.

He was also responsible for investigating fraud and corruption.

“Similarly, I was the integrity agency liaison. When I was the acting team leader, I was the responsible person for conflict of interest declarations, personal interest returns, infringement reviews, and so on,” he said.

In addition to his professional pursuit, Mr Alam said he was a very community-based person who had been active since 2013.

He volunteers for cultural events, religious events, and youth events across different associations in the community.

Mr Alam launched his new round of research as early as possible. He started to talk with people in the community to hear the issues a few weeks ago.

“Overall inflation is a big problem. The crime rate has also increased. I’m not only limiting that to Casey. I’m saying overall inVictoria and Australia, and Casey’s part of it,” he said.

“A lot of people want improvement to the parks. Everyone wants that.

“In certain streets along the schools, cars are speeding. Residents are asking for speed bumps to be put on the streets.

“I think I have a really good understanding of the community by now. I know what people think, what people want, what people need, and what might be improved or could be addressed.”

Camping out for

A group of Casey Scouts received the experience of a lifetime last month - camping on the grounds of Government House in Canberra.

Running from Sunday 14 April to Friday 19 April, the Scouts Australia Camp hosted more than 1400 Scouts from across the country, including Scouts from the Casey, Cranbourne and Devon Meadows groups.

Assisted by adult leaders, all participants from Joey Scouts (aged five to eight) right through to Rover Scouts (aged 18 to 25) united to camp, dine, and engage in team-building activities.

The experience included immersive explorations of flora and fauna to deep dives into Indigenous history and culture, as well as emergency services simulations, photography sessions, theatre and performing arts workshops, and other challenges like helicopter simulations, axe throwing and archery.

Research conducted by Scouts Australia in collaboration with Resilient Youth Australia

local Scouts

has highlighted the profound positive impact of Scouting on participants’ lives.

In particular, Scouts have a healthier mental state than non-Scouts and are more likely to feel good about themselves.

Sixteen-year-old Alex from 1st Casey Scouts said receiving the chance to take part in the camp was “something special”.

“You don’t get many opportunities to camp on the man in charge of Australia’s front lawn,” he said.

1st Cranbourne Scouts’ Shannen said she loved spending time with other Scouts on the Government House lawn.

“This is a once-in a lifetime opportunity,” she said.

His Excellency General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd) Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia officially welcomed the Scouts for the event, which was first time in history that Government House has opened its doors to Scouts.

Alex (Casey), Shannen (Cranbourne), Alex (Casey), Brennan (Devon Meadows) and Amira (Devon Meadows).

Picture: SUPPLIED

Ezatullah Alam is running as a candidate in this year’s local government elections. 404021

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Tens of millions for buses

Casey will be allocated $39 million for its local bus network and $6 million for community infrastructure in the latest round of the Growth AreasInfrastructureContribution(GAIC)fund.

The State Government announced a more than $400 million package through the GAIC fund on Wednesday 24 April for Melbourne’s fastest-growing suburbs in the seven major growth area councils of Cardinia, Casey, Hume, Melton, Mitchell, Whittlesea, and Wyndham.

The GAIC fund is a one-off contribution payable by landowners developing land that has been zoned for urban use and development in these council areas.

Bus Route 831 will benefit from about $23 million to see its service extended on Casey Bells Road. Route 798 will be extended to Clyde North via Hardys Road with a funding of about

$16 million.

The community infrastructure development will include $1 million for Craig Road shared user path design and construction, $555k for Soldiers Road shared user path and $4 million for land acquisition for the new CFA Clyde Fire Station.

“While we create the conditions for 800,000 new homes to be built over the next decade, we’re delivering schools and health services, parks and playgrounds – the community facilities and open spaces that families need,” Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny said.

City of Casey manager city and asset planning Keri New said the City of Casey did not rely upon GAIC revenue to support the delivery of local infrastructure.

“Local infrastructure for growth area communities is funded from council rates, developer contribution funds under approved contribution plans, and where possible State and Federal Government grants,” she said.

“The State Government’s dashboard on growth areas infrastructure contributions indicates that so far $199.79 million has been collected in the City of Casey, with a further $213.89 million committed.

“Most funds are allocated to state agencies for state infrastructure. The dashboard also shows a breakdown of where funds have been committed.

“To date, council has been able to access $5 million of those funds, with a further $1,889,533 for shared user path connections in Botanic Ridge and Berwick recently an-

nounced.”

Shadow Minister for Outer Suburban Growth Evan Mulholland said the State Government had left growing suburban communities starved of the basic transport, health, education, and emergency service infrastructure other parts of Victoria enjoyed for years.

“We have communities patrolling their own neighbourhoods because there is no police station, locals who have no bus services and are stuck on V/Line trains, estates with no access to maternal and child health beyond eight weeks and residents waiting over an hour in traffic to get out of their own estates all because Labor has been hoarding these developer funds for years to prop up the budget,” he said.

Visitor visa ‘discrimination’ claims amid rejections

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Advocates are calling out a “discriminatory” crackdown against overseas relatives who are being refused visas to visit Australia.

Refugee advocate Wicki Wickiramasingham says “everybody is surprised” that immigration authorities are rejecting visitors en masse from attending family reunions, special birthdays, weddings, religious ceremonies, pregnancies and funerals for up to 3-12 months.

The reason given is that they’re being a perceived risk of over-staying in Australia.

Many applicants are from Sri Lanka who intended to visit citizens or permanent residents from the Tamil community, Mr Wickiramasingham said.

Their hopes to attend were shattered, with a review at the Administrative Appeals Tribunal costing more than $3500 and can take up to 12 months – too expensive and too late for many, Mr Wickiramasingham says.

Local residents’ pasts as asylum seekers arriving by boat 15 years ago are being unfairly weighed against them, he says.

“These ‘boat people’ – you have detained them, released them, given them permanent protection, they become citizens and now you stop their family visiting.

“They are being discriminated against, even though they are Australian citizens.

“If they still don’t have equal rights as others, then what’s the point (of being citizens)?”

Dandenong-based migration agent Thayhorn Yim agreed that it seemed discriminatory.

Authorities have been particularly harsh against overseas visitors from refugee hot spots like Afghanistan, Cambodia, Pakistan and Sri Lanka in recent months, he says.

And it’s a simpler, less expensive process for visitors from countries such as the UK.

“They should be allowed to come here provided there’s no adverse information

against them.

“But the department looks at the history of the family who arrived here for protection as refugees. That history shouldn’t be seen as a bad thing.

“Particularly for a visitor visa, they shouldn’t be applying the policy so strictly.

“It’s causing a lot of grief in the community. Especially after Covid-19 they want to reunite with their families.”

Last year, Star News reported Mr Yim’s desperate fight for a Cambodian teenager’s visa to attend his late father’s funeral in the South East.

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He had been initially refused because he didn’t have “strong employment or financial incentives” to return to Cambodia.

“I note the applicant has other relatives residing in Australia, which would further act as an encouragement for the applicant to remain in Australia,” a Home Affairs delegate stated at the time.

It took months of multiple applications, a letter from a senior Buddhist monk in Springvale South to the Immigration Minister and media coverage before Home Affairs relented. your arrival by boat shouldn’t be relevant for these cases,”

A Department of Home Affairs spokesperson said that a key requirement is that the visitor visa applicant “genuinely intends to stay temporarily in Australia”.

“This involves an assessment of the applicant’s personal circumstances, incentive to return home, financial situation and ability to support themselves in Australia.

“Each application is assessed on its individual merits, taking into account any factors relevant to the applicant.

“The decision maker is unable to grant the visa if they are not satisfied that the applicant intends a genuine temporary stay in Australia.”

Wicki Wickiramasingham says Tamil-Australian citizens are being discriminated from having their families visit from overseas. 235665

Picture: GARY SISSONS

Capturing the joy at Holi

Banjo Paterson Reserve was a riot of colours as Lynbrook celebrated its 12th Holi Festival of Colours in perfect autumn weather on Saturday 27 April.

Organised by the Lynbrook Residents Association, the event highlighted diversity and community spirit.

Volunteers played a crucial role in ensuring the festival’s success, underscoring the commitment of Lynbrook’s residents to come together and celebrate inclusivity year after year.

Star News photographer ROB CAREW captured the beautiful moments on the day.

Sanjani Deo meets mum and son Vicky and Andrew in the Colour Run enclosed area. 402993

Parents Kayal and Doss with Children Keerti (8yo) and Gianesh (12yo). 402993

Parents Sourabh and Hunny Gosain with Children Bhavya (12yo) and Vihaan (4yo). 402993

Lexi during the beautiful weather. 402993

Pictures: ROB CAREW

Volunteers from the Lynbrook Residents Association. 402993

Maya (7yo) and Ava (4yo). 402993 Mum Shiwanjah Prasad (left) with her son Aarav and daughter Aanvi. With Sanjani Deo (right). 402993

Volunteer Bardara from the Lynbrook Residents Association with Eunice and her granddaughter Athena (3yo). 402993

NEWS Unforgettable war journey

By Violet Li

John Goldspink has a life to tell you.

The 98-year-old Pearcedale resident took the lead in this year’s Cranbourne Anzac Day march as the eldest member who served the country in the Dandenong-Cranbourne RSL.

He still treasures a wooden casket from the Second World War and keeps the physical memories inside: an enrolment form, paperwork, paybook, a will, and several dog-eared yellow pictures from the old days.

The origin of the casket has long been forgotten, but the Japanese characters carved into the lid,“25 wearable machine gun. 80 fuse type”, declare it could be a grenade box.

On the back of the lid, English words finally emerge. Crooked but identifiable, they say “19 Australian Field Ambulance Unit”, where John served during the war.

Growing up inTumbarumba, a town in New South Wales, John was enlisted in the medical department on 22 March 1944 when he was an 18-year-old teenage boy. It was a voluntary move. Long inspired by his neighbour who returned from the FirstWorldWar, John felt compelled to defend Australia.

HelaterhadinfantrytraininginCowra,New South Wales and medical training in Darley, Victoria. On 15 January 1945, he was shipped to Bougainville, a part of Papua New Guinea.

“The Japanese, after the Pearl Harbor incident, have come down through Malaysia and all those other ones.They have started to come down,” John recalled.

“So the Australian forces at the start bolstered or defended the islands, and then the Americans eventually came and helped.

“After that, some Australians went over to Europe, but the main contingency of Australia would have been Malaysia and the islands.

“Papua New Guinea was like the last stand for Australia.”

“I assisted in operating on the wounded diggers,” he continued.

“I can always remember the first three wounds I ever saw. The first was shot through the arm. The second was shot in the stomach and the third was the head.”

John was discharged on 30 April 1947 after being shipped back to a hospital in Sydney. He lost the hearing of one of his ears during the service due to an infection.

The war imprinted indelible marks on his memories. There were mixed feelings. He still remembers some good times in the army.

“When I was in the hospital in Sydney, they had their own movies and all sorts of things. But we didn’t have ice cream. The Americans used to have ice cream. We didn’t,” he joked.

But grey moments were more of the usual. A black-and-white picture from the time may have proved that. It was the moment of a volcano erupting in Papua New Guinea. Addressed to an unknown, John wrote a line on the back: “I hope you like it because I am beginning to hate the sight of it.”

“I was lying in the back when I was looking at it. It was a pretty clear night. I was on the ground anyway. I felt the bed shake,” he recalled.

“I was homesick, and with all the stuff that was going on.

“I was homesick for a while, but you would’ve been over that in the end.”

After the war, John returned to his hometown and went back to his old normal job: making boxes.

The army helped him secure a new painting job. After that, he worked for a local builder for

a while.

He started a family, created his own business later in his life, and moved down to Victoria. The family lived all around Melbourne: Carnegie, Clayton, Dandenong, and eventually Pearcedale where John went into the cattle business.

He never picked up nursing, his army profession, after the war.

“I thought, I’ve seen enough blood and

guts,” he said.

“I just couldn’t do it anymore. I couldn’t continue doing that on a daily basis.”

But attending Anzac Day has always been a routine and a must.

“The Anzac Day is a good day to remember, trying to get the young people to think about what we all went through,” he said.

“As long as we remember.”

John Goldspink and his grandson Scott Kingett, who also served in the army. 402226

Picture: ROB CAREW

The Japanese casket from the war. John has long forgotten how he got it. Picture: VIOLET LI

John Goldspink at 18. Picture: VIOLET LI

A volcano is erupting in Papua New Guinea. Addressed to an unknown, John wrote a line on the back: “I hope you like it because I am beginning to hate the sight of it.”

Picture: VIOLET LI

We will remember them

By Violet Li

This year’s Cranbourne Anzac Day service attracted a larger turnout than last year’s, with about 500 locals paying their respects at the dawn service and over 1000 at the march on Thursday 25 April.

The crowd mustered around the old Ritchies store car park at 10am with rosemary and poppies on their left chests and coffee in their hands. Uninvited Melbourne autumn rain greeted everyone when the march started but quickly faded away.

Locals watched a line of military groups, community organisations, emergency service representatives, and school students march along High Street and down to Greg Clydesdale Square where a memorial service was held afterwards.

Special guests included Holt MP Cassandra Fernando and City of Casey administrator Cameron Boardman.

Dandenong-Cranbourne RSL vice president and veteran Stuart Couch delivered a speech at the service. He said the term ANZAC was not just a place, an award, and a ceremony.

“The term ANZAC, the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps, has transcended physically into a meaning of a spirit, an inspiration that embodies the qualities of courage, discipline, sacrifice, and the Australian term of mateship,” he said.

“We do not gather here to glorify war. Instead, we gather here for the simple recognition. They went on to fight and ultimately to their deaths for service to their country and their mates.

“Ever since the first Australian military nurses sailed into the Boer War in South Africa in 1900, Australian nurses have served in all theatres of war and conflict. But in the past, we have too often forgotten the sacrifice of these amazing men and women.

“Working under the most challenging conditions, enduring extreme discomfort, and the most harassing and harrowing fire. Some of whom have lost their lives, all while providing aid and support and comfort to our dying and wounded.”

Mr Couch said they were also there to acknowledge all current and former members of the Australian Defence Force, New Zealand Defence Force, and the allies.

“Whilst many of us have not been directly affected by losing a loved one in conflict, no Australian is left untouched when a member of the defence force is killed,” he said.

“It is difficult to comprehend the grief that a family feels when they lose a partner, a father, a child, a sibling, or just a friend.

“It is also difficult to comprehend the images and memories that some of these men and women have brought home with them from their time.

“Let us remember them, their families, and their friends. We must also not forget the history of both sides as there are no victors in war, only great loss.”

Holt MP Cassandra Fernando said it was a humbling feeling to attend Anzac Day services in her electorate and remember the sacrifices of those who had kept our country safe.

“I was delighted to see so many people from our community attend the services this year, especially school students and youth from

“Their

the

across my electorate,” she said.

participation emphasises

importance of Anzac Day — a day commemorated

so that future generations will continue to remember those who lost their lives in war. Lest we forget.”

Mitchell Newman and Rachel Christie from Cranbourne CFA. 402226 Pictures: ROB CAREW

Flypast. 402226

The parade approaches the War Memorial. 402226

The parade approaches the War Memorial. 402226

Children from Great Beginnings Lyndhurst, Junior Kinder run across the wet grass to lay wreaths they made themselves. 402226

Girl Guides Australia. 402226

Dandenong-Cranbourne RSL vice-president Stuart Couch, Holt MP Cassandra Fernando, Dandenong-Cranbourne RSL retired senior-vice president Bill Shepherd, and young vet Ric Cachia. 402226

Large crowds. 402226

Former president of the Dandenong-Cranbourne RSL John Wells OAM speaks. 402226

City of Casey administrator Cameron Boardman lays a wreath. 402226

Cassandra Fernando MP. 402226

Solemnity during the service. 402226

From Australian Air League, Cranbourne. 402226

A member of the Catafalque Party during the last post and reveille. 402226

Thousands honour heroes

The Anzac Day dawn service at Bunjil Place this year saw a large crowd paying their respects with about 3000 locals in attendance.

The Anzac Day address and Ode to the Fallen were delivered by the president of the Berwick RSL, Pam Phillips.

City of Casey administrator Cameron Boardman also spoke.

Lysterfield Lake College Choir sang the New Zealand and Australian national anthems.

Following the service, a Gunfire Breakfast was held in the Function Centre at Bunjil Place. About 150 members of the public, including veterans and their families, were in-

vited to have a sit down breakfast, which was donated by the Rotary Club of NarreWarren.

City of Casey administrator Miguel Belmar spoke at the breakfast.

City of Casey chair of administrators Noelene Duff PSM said Anzac Day was a very special day in Australia’s calendar and an important day to commemorate.

“The City of Casey has a long tradition of acknowledging Anzac Day, and we are proud to support our local RSLs and community groups so residents can come together to reflect and remember with pride, the Anzacs and the Anzac spirit that was first forged at Gallipoli on 25 April 1915,” she said.

The site benefits from the

Large silent crowds. 403554

Berwick MP Brad Battin reflects after laying a wreath. 403554

Lysterfield Lake College Students, conducted by student, Pierre. They sang “Abide by Me” and the national anthems of New Zealand and Australia. 403554 Pictures: ROB CAREW

Wreaths in the rain capture the mood of the morning. 403554

Berwick RSL president Pam Phillips. 403554

Chris McKenna, Berwick RSL secretary. 403554

Beautifully presented bouquets to individuals who served and died. 403554

City of Casey administrators Cameron Boardman and Miguel Belmar stand at attention after laying a wreath. 403554

Reverend Elwyn Sparks. 403554

Paul Reynolds with his seven-year-old granddaughter Dakota from Girl Guides Victoria, remembering Paul’s late grandfather who was a prisoner of war for five years in Stalag 383 in Bavaria. 403554

FOCUS ON … MOTHER’S DAY

Heartfelt, thoughtful gifts

This Mother’s Day, let mum know how appreciated and loved she is.

Mother’s Day is the perfect opportunity to shower mum with gifts and show her how much she means. But when there are little ones, even the simplest gesture speaks volumes. Kids, here are some easy (and cheap!) ways to spoil mum on Mother’s Day.

A thoughtful gift such as breakfast in bed or a homemade card is sure to bring a smile to your mum’s dial.

Start out by making your mum a cup of her favourite beverage - such as tea or coffee.

Then, while she’s relaxing in bed sipping on her drink, get to work on breakfast.

If you’re not a whiz in the kitchen, something simple like fruit with yoghurt or porridge will do the trick.

For something with a bit more effort, whip up a batch of French toast or pancakes, or go all out and make bacon and eggs.

Make your mum a card with a heartfelt message.

If you want to continue the culinary efforts, get the family together for a special Mother’s Day meal, where your mum doesn’t have to lift a finger.

Pick some flowers from your backyard and create a bouquet for a sure-fire winning present. Channel your inner do-it-yourselfer and make your mum a painting.

Take a walk with mum for a heart-to-heart or simply enjoy some quiet time together.

Put on her favourite movie and get her to relax.

And if you want to go all-out with something more extravagant, talk to dad and see if he can chip in for a luxurious spa treatment or some jewellery.And last, but not least, don’t forget to tell your mum “I love you”.

Happy Mother’s Day.

Taste of Italy for mum

Give

you

amo Mamma’ - Italian for ‘I

in

blanched almonds

Method:

1. Combine ground almonds, sugar, egg

whites, vanilla and almond essence in a mixing bowl.

2. Beat mixture with electric whisk on medium speed for about three minutes.

3. Let mixture rest for five minutes while you prepare baking trays with non-stick baking paper and pre-heat oven to 180C.

4. Spoon mixture into a piping bag with a 1cm plain tube.

5. Pipe mixture onto the baking paper in a circular motion to form a biscuit.

6. Place one blanched almond on top of each biscuit and bake for about 12-15 minutes or until tops are lightly brown.

7. Remove from the oven, leave to cool for a few minutes before placing on a wire rack for further cooling.

Makes 20 biscuits.

Recipe courtesy of the Australian Egg Corporation

FOCUS ON … MOTHER’S DAY

A run in the name of love

Running for love has turned into running for someone you love, with a surge in registrations for the runners’ waves at this month’s Women In Super Mother’s Day Classic.

Recent trends have seen Australians switching from dating apps to running clubs, and this year participants in the Mother’s Day Classic - with events nearby in Drouin and Lysterfield - will be lacing up for charity both in the name of love, and in support/memory of someone diagnosed with or having survived cancer.

Australia’s favourite fun run and walk, the Mother’s Day Classic, to be held on Sunday, 12 May, has seen a 20 per cent increase in registrations to date, with 34 per cent of those registering to run, 25 per cent up on 2023.

Since the event’s inception in 1998 there have been over 1.6 million participants, and the Mother’s Day Classic community has donated $44 million to the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) to fund life-saving breast cancer research. Their contributions have helped increase the five-year relative survival rate breast cancer patients from 84 per cent to 92 per cent.

In 2024, the Mother’s Day Classic has taken a monumental step by introducing the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation (OCRF) as a second beneficiary of fundraising, aiming to increase the five-year relative survival rate for ovarian cancer which is just 49 per cent.

With proceeds from the 2024 Mother’s Day Classic being donated to both the National Breast Cancer Foundation and the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation, participants can choose to support and fundraise for breast cancer research, ovarian cancer research, or both.

One runner taking part is 12-year-old Sam Byrnes from Patterson Lakes, with something

With proceeds from the 2024 Mother’s Day Classic being donated to both the National Breast Cancer Foundation and the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation, participants can choose to support and fundraise for breast cancer research, ovarian cancer research, or both.

special in his stride.

Sam lost his mother Jordy to ovarian cancer in October last year and has taken up running with the goal of tackling the 7km run at the Mother’s Day Classic, and fundraising for research into the disease that took his mum’s life.

Jordy is with Sam in every step of training, as he wears her runners in her honour, his motivation and inspiration to keep on running. Sam has raised more than $3000 so far.

MOTHER’S DAY COMPETITION

$200 Gift Card for Mum!

Friday 26 April to Thursday 9 May

Enter for your chance to WIN one of four $200 Gift Cards from the following stores:

Mother’s Day Classic CEO, Zara Lawless, said the increase in registration numbers is a great testament to the timely expansion of the event.

“2024 has already been a big year for the Mother’s Day Classic, with the inclusion of the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation as a beneficiary alongside the National Breast Cancer Foundation. And the increase in early registrations is a positive step towards funding vital research for two of the most harmful can-

Since the event’s inception in 1998 there have been over 1.6 million participants.

cers in women,” said Ms Lawless.

“For the last 26 years we’ve been grateful for the contribution from the Mother’s Day Classic community, which has produced a remarkable impact on breast cancer stats. However, the job is not done, and we now look ahead to also making a difference in the numbers of the ‘silent killer’, ovarian cancer.”

Registrations are now open for the 27th Mother’s Day Classic at mothersdayclassic. com.au

NEWS MasterChef star at Bunjil

By Emma Xerri

In the 15 years since she first graced our screens in MasterChef, season one winner

Julie Goodwin has become a beloved name throughout the country, donning many hats from radio host to Today presenter, contestant on I’m A Celebrity … Get Me Out of Here! and, of course, cookbook author.

Now, Julie Goodwin is bearing all in her memoir ‘Your Time Starts Now’ and making a stop at Bunjil Place in her national book tour, after the support during her return to MasterChef in 2022 inspired her to speak out about her history with mental health more explicitly.

“When I first came out publicly about those struggles - once when I gave up the radio, and again on MasterChef series 14 - the response was quite humbling and informative,” she said.

“There were a lot of people who were thankful for me speaking about it, and who said that me being open helped them to speak about their struggles.

“I’m always looking for purpose in things that happen, and while it was a really crappy thing that happened, if the purpose was to give a voice to these issues, then that’s what I’ll do.”

While the experience of writing the memoir may not have necessarily been a cathartic one for Julie - “the jury’s out on that,” she laughed - it was an experience coloured by many confronting and oftentimes difficult lessons, and one she is now happy to be finished with.

“It certainly brought a few things to light that I could have gone the rest of my life without examining, so I’m not sure if catharsis is the right term just yet,” she said.

“At the moment, I’m just so proud I got the book done.

“It took a year to write, and that included big stretches of time writing, but also long

WHAT’S ON

In Conversation with Julie Goodwin

The 2009 debut season of Masterchef introduced millions of Australians to Julie Goodwin. She battled through cooking challenges and was ultimately crowned the first-ever winner of Masterchef Australia. Your Time Starts Now is the brutally honest and soul-baring memoir of a woman who won hearts across the nation, who lived many highs and many lows, often in the public domain.

Book sales and signings will be available on the night.

Wednesday 8 May, 7pm to 8.30pm, Bunjil Place Library

This is a free event, but bookings are essential. · To book, visit: events.connectedlibraries.org. au/event?id=61009

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

stretches to stop and heal before I could go again. But I’m glad that it’s done and I’m so glad that it’s honest.

“I don’t see the point in writing half a story, so I thought I would just put it all out there.

“It was very hard to write down some of those most painful and shameful and hurtful things. But I’ve also written with a lot of honesty about the great things.

“And I’ve learned things I never knew I needed to learn, about the human condition and compassion for other people, but also compassion for yourself.”

And this self love is something Julie is excited to be working into her new self-driven lifestyle, one she credits, in part, to her MasterChef return.

“I was very unsure about going back,” she said.

“I outline in the book that I was only three

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

Blind Bight Community Centre Programs

FREE HEARING TESTS: Monday 6 May, 9.30am – 1.00pm

With over 75 years of experience, Hearing Australia is the nation’s leading hearing specialist and largest provider of government-funded hearing services. Pensioner Concession Card and DVA Card Holders are just two of the groups that Hearing Australia provides free and subsidised services. The screening itself only takes approximately 5 mins, and those who are screened are given their results immediately. If there is a need for further assessment with an audiologist, we can arrange to refer you to our nearby hearing clinic in the area. For bookings ring Blind Bight Community Centre on 5998 7014

The Magic Of Your Birthdate Numerology (three dates): 23, 30 May & 6 June, 7pm – 9pm

Raising awareness of your super powers. Receive tools to support the challenges all through the gift of the day you were born. Self - Romantic – Family with Anita BeJoyful $20 per class Bookings 0419 150 483 or 5998 7014

Line Dancing: 1pm – 2pm, Every Wednesday

Come line dancing and do some boot scooting. No experience required. All ages and abilities are welcome. $10 per class. For bookings, ring Blind Bight Community Centre on 5998 7014

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.

weeks out of a stay in hospital when I got the phone call asking me to go back on, so it seemed like a very silly idea on the surface. But something felt right about it, so I thought I would prepare and just see what happens.

“And I will never stop being grateful that I did that, it was a big turning point for me.

“I had lost the joy in cooking, and most everything, for a while, but preparing to return to MasterChef brought it back for me, and now it’s back to being a real staple in my life.

“It continues to be my love language and it’s why the book is peppered with a few recipes.

“And now my days look great, they look like whatever I choose them to look like.

“One of my biggest lessons learned is that I get to make choices, and some of them - like leaving the radio show or closing my cooking school - are very hard choices, but making those choices has opened the door to other things.

“So now I’m on a book tour, I do cooking demos and food shows, I play with my granddaughter, and I’ve taken up painting.

“I’m doing things that make me happy, as well as things that provide me with a living.

“There’s a lot more balance and a lot more to look forward to.”

With the release of her book and the commencement of her book tour set to take place on Tuesday 23 April, Julie is overcome with a wealth of emotions, many of which are unlikely to hit until her first signing begins.

But, hoping to connect with her fans, and cultivate an safe environment and supportive environment, Julie is looking forward to the tour and the release of her book, hopeful that, above all else, she can provide a source of comfort and solidarity.

“I’m a bit nervous about the tour, because obviously I’m talking about some really per-

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. Web-

sonal stuff, but at the same time I’m excited.

“It’s a real privilege to be in this position where I have a voice and agency, and I’m very aware of that.

“And these kinds of events where I’m face to face with people are the least nerve wracking. You get to have good chats with people, and it’s interactive, which is what I love.

“I hope that if there’s anyone who can relate to the things I talk about, that they can find a fellow human who is going through something similar, and maybe some pathways forward.

“The only reason to do this is in the hope that it might reach someone who needs it, and that it might touch somebody who has experienced something similar and doesn’t know what to do with it.

“Or that it might inspire someone who can see some of the symptoms of an impending breakdown to seek help.”

Inbetweenherpaintingandtimespentwith loved ones, Julie has also been hard at work in the dance studio, set to return to screens on Dancing with the Stars later this year, before a much needed holiday with friends.

But with her newfound sense of control, Julie is living up to the message of her book’s title, relishing in choosing to spend her time doing things that bring her joy.

“Life is a moveable feast,” she added.

“It’s an adventure, and I never quite know what’s around the corner.”

And for Julie, that’s nothing short of exciting.

‘Your Time is Now’ is on sale now, and fans can attend Julie’s event at the Bunjil Place Library on Wednesday 8 May at 7pm.

This is a free event, but bookings are essential via events.connectedlibraries.org.au/ event?id=61009

Book sales and signings will be available on the night.

site: badfolkclub.org Contact: Edward: 0418 535 264.

· Meet on the third Friday of each month. Biggest Morning Tea

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

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

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

· Tuesdays from 10am to noon.

Narre Warren Senior Citizens Centre

If you are over 55 years old, newly retired, or new to the Casey area and looking for something to do, come and join us.

Narre Warren Seniors is a friendly Club and we can offer you many activities. Our main Club day is on Wednesdays from 9.30am to 3pm. On the first Wednesday of the month we enjoy socialising with our members and, on the next three (3) Wednesdays we have live entertainment wherein you can do some line-dancing if you wish and enjoy an afternoon cup of tea.

There are also weekly activities on other days of the week, which include the Garden Group Club, Indoor Carpet Bowls, Line Dancing, Table Tennis, friendly Card games, and a Gentle Exercise class.

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

MasterChef winner bares all in memoir ‘Your Time Starts Now.’ Picture: ELIZABETH ALLNUTT

Job cuts spark backlash

By Matthew Sims

A congregation of Federation University Berwick campus students and National Tertiary Education Union members filled out the foyer of Building 901, with a number of speakers demanding Federation University’s council stop proceeding with a proposed program which would lead to 200 full-time equivalent job cuts.

Congregating outside the entry of Building 901 on Tuesday 30 April, the protesters demanded for senior management to stop the cuts proposed by Vice Chancellor Duncan Bentley, citing concerns it would lead to the cut of further courses and undermine already stretched student support services.

NTEU Federation University branch president Dr Mathew Abbott led the protest, while a number of speakers spoke to the congregation via megaphone about their demands and concerns.

NTEU members at Federation University held an all-member meeting last week in which they vowed to join protests at the university’s three major campuses to oppose the Future Fed proposal, with other protests being held at the Churchill campus on Wednesday May 1 and at the Mt Helen campus on Thursday May 2.

Announced on Friday 22 March, the Future Fed program would lead to 12 per cent of ongoing staff being made redundant, with the university inviting staff to express interest in a voluntary redundancy process.

This comes as the university has struggled to return to an operating surplus after a drop of $79.1 million in the university’s revenue since 2019

According to the university, the number of international students was down 49 per cent compared to 2019, leading to a $79.1 million decline in revenue, due to unexpected changes to international student visa arrangements.

Federation University NTEU members previously called for Mr Bentley and chief financial officer John Blair to resign following the announcement.

Dr Abbott said the NTEU branch were optimistic they would be able to force the Federation University’s hand to reverse the proposal.

“Our branch’s organising team has been very busy putting up posters, handing out leaflets, and engaging staff and students in conversations to build these important rallies,” he said.

“Our branch has taken on this rogue management in the past and won and we are aiming to do so again.

“The stakes are very high as staff members believe our university cannot survive cuts of this scale, as they will make our problems with student enrolment and retention far worse.”

Student Ramesh Durai said students were concerned about the cuts and proposals from the university’s Provost to replace valued staff with chat bots.

“As a current international student, I would be greatly disappointed should the discussed changes, specifically those regarding the redundancy of staff and replacement with automated systems, be meted out,” he said.

would consider it a failing of the university to fulfill their contracted charge of proper tertiary education.

“I

“If I wanted a chatbot handling my requests I would take that to Maccas, not my university.”

National Tertiary Education Union Federation University branch president Dr Mathew Abbott led the protest. 404202 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

Dr Mathew Abbott. 404202

THE LOWDOWN

Tell us a fun fact about yourself!

I enjoy doing community work and participating in events. It helps me to promote peace and inclusiveness in the community. A fun fact about me is to strike up a conversation with fellow Australians and have a good chat, share thoughts, enjoy discussing things, and coffee, though I personally love comedy and reading books.

What do you love the most about your job?

I work for a financial institution in Melbourne and enjoy the software and delivering value for the customers which can help them in their daily lives.

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

Kangaroos; very sweet and natural instinct to have love and passion for others.

What was your most memorable moment?

I have many memorable moments working with many community groups, and attending various interfaith meetings. One thing that looks common is the zeal for the peace and unity and connecting humans. We had the Ahmadiyya Holy Quran Exhibition where we happen to meet many people sharing similar thoughts. Peace, love and affection. The most memorable one is one person came to me and said I wish we all would have treated Muslims and others well and in general all humans. It is very heart-touching.

What were you like as a kid?

When I was growing as a kid I was shy and composed and enjoyed every bit of being a kid with support from family, friends and the community where I was raised, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community inculcated basic habits like do not lie, be kind to others, being respectful and helping others.

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

Many events. I happened to travel to London,

UK many times and visited the current Caliph and leader of the Worldwide Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad and witnessed guests of more than 40,000 people. I wish I could do that again and again. And this year I have been blessed to visit Mecca and Medina, the two holy places for Muslims with friends and family I wish I could do this many times in my life. Locally I enjoy going to many events to connect, have fun and increase connection, I wish to continue the present for the future.

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

Definitely my grandparents who must be on this list and my mother too who has passed. I wish I could have a bigger table and more than six to invite my parents, my current leader of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community and other friends.

What three words would your friends use to describe you?

Passionate, loving and enthusiastic. These are

very basic tenets of Islam like love, passion for others, helping, caring; the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community helps bring these in kids to older people and we all inculcate such good behaviours that can help us and the community. We live with the motto “Love For All, Hatred For None”.

What would you do on your perfect day off?

Being to the beautiful nature of Australia, having a walk with friends and barbecue. Or having fun with many friends of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community on various occasions to conduct a workshop, share learnings and learn from others in an event.

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

Biryani, in our community we do many programs like fasting in my religion, interfaith events and invite many guests to taste our food.

Where is your dream holiday destination?

Would like to still visit and holiday in Dubai and Swiss.

THREE … facts about tuna on World Tuna Day, 2 May 1

One of the oldest records of the species could date back to Aristotle’s time when the Greek philosopher mentioned bluefin tuna in his work on the classification of animals in 350 BC.

2

An endothermic fish, tuna can maintain its body temperature above that of the surrounding water on its migration routes. This evolutionary adaptation gives its meat a characteristic reddish-pink colour and powerful nutritional properties.

3 Tuna can camouflage their skin to blend in with their ocean surroundings.

100%

Basharat Ahmed, second from the left, with fellow members from the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Jason Wood MP (middle) and Brad Battin MP (far right) during the Anzac Day Berwick service.

Sharing a special bond

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Susanna Lacko’s 100th birthday was particularly poignant, franked by a special bond.

Ms Lasko shares the same birthday as her 58-year-old grandson Edward, and they basked in the joint milestone together with close family and residents at Mercy Place nursing home in Dandenong on 24 April.

“It’s always been a big deal to have the same birthday,” Edward says.

“For her to get to 100 and share that important milestone with her is very special.”

A great-great-grandmother, Ms Lasko’s story is also extraordinary – a Polish refugee who made a daring escape as a teenager from a Nazi labour camp during World War II.

Ms Lasko was about 16 when she made a dash from the camp, which was growing vegetables for the German army. It was a brutal place, in which the Polish inmates were taunted and disparaged

“She saw an opportunity to sneak out at midnight,” says Edward – who is compiling her memoir.

“She remembers hiding behind a tree and seeing trucks going past. She thought she would get captured then.

“She managed to get on a train without documents. And she was packing death.”

Ms Lasko arrived at her sister’s house. But within an hour, German SS officers “kicked down” the door.

“She went quietly. (An officer) held up a Luger and told her if you try it again, you’ll get one of these.”

Ms Lasko was taken to a second labour camp, which was led by a more humane ‘burgmeister’ and offered much better treatment, Edward says.

After the war, she and her now-late husband Otto and children Edward senior and Christine fled through Italy from the conquer-

General Notices

Public Notice

City of Casey Proposed Governance Rules

At the Council Meeting on 16 April 2024, Council endorsed in principle the proposed changes to the Governance Rules (Rules).

The proposed Rules considers the recommendations made by the Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission (IBAC) in its Operation Sandon Special Report, in addition to other matters within Meeting Procedure and Election Period Policy section.

Submissions are now invited on the proposed Governance Rules and must be received by 5pm Monday 27 May 2024.

Where do I view the draft Governance Rules?

You can download a copy of the proposed Governance Rules via Casey Conversations or alternatively you may request a physical copy and collect from Bunjil Place.

How do I make my submission?

Any person affected by the proposals may make a written submission relating to the draft document. Submissions will be received up to 5pm Monday 27 May 2024.

By Email: governance@casey.vic.gov.au

Please include “Governance Rules” in the subject line.

Mail: PO Box 1000 Narre Warren, Victoria 3805. Please include “Governance Rules” as the reference.

In Person: Bunjil Place – 2 Patrick Northeast Drive, Narre Warren 3805. Please include “Governance Rules” as the reference to your submission

ing Russians.

About 6 million Poles died during World War II, including thousands of Polish prisoners of war and officers executed by the Soviets.

Ms Lasko and family settled in Doveton, adding two more children Lillian and Renate. And grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren have followed.

Ms Lasko has lived in the area for many decades, seeing a “plethora of change”.

“I wish I asked more questions about her life when I was younger. But now I’ve started documenting her story,” Edward says.

“She’s an amazing lady.”

Sales Consultant

Part time/casual required for our Dandenong South branch, the ideal candidate will possess confidence, excellent communication skills and the ability to interface with people. Email: dandenong@cameomemorials.com.au

Susanna Lacko turns 100 at Mercy Place in Dandenong. 403325 Picture: GARY SISSONS

Susanna Lacko and her grandson Edward Lacko at her 100th birthday on 24 April. 403325

SPORT Seagulls take first steps

By David Nagel

Tooradin-Dalmore coach Jordan Kelly has chalked up his first senior success after the Seagulls ground out a 40-point victory14.18(102) to 9.8(62) - over Warragul Industrials on Anzac Day.

The Gulls not only opened their season account against the Dusties, but gained a modicum of revenge after being knocked out of the competition in week one of last year’s finals series.

Kelly - the 2022 premiership captain - had the Seagulls pumped up for the huge occasion, with the Gulls and Dusties making Anzac Day their own in recent years.

TheSeagullskickedtheopeningfourgoalsof the match, to lead by 21 points at quarter time.

Sharp-shooter Stewie Scanlon got the ball rolling with an early settler before Johnny Duff set fire with two goals in three minutes.

The Dusties then shot themselves in the foot, kicking five consecutive behinds before the inevitable happened; with Brad Butler kicking a goal from the Seagulls only shot at goal in 12 minutes to open up their handy lead at the first break.

Nic Visser then gave the Dusties a lifeline at the start of the second term, before Scanlon responded two minutes later.

The Dusties then started to make inroads, with youngsters Cody Templeton and Tom Cornwall cutting the margin to 12 points before Visser kicked his second to cut the deficit to six…in red-time in the second quarter.

Cornwall was proving a nuisance for the Seagulls defence.

He slotted the opening goal of the third term, before veteran Shane Brewster gave the Dusties an unlikely lead midway through the quarter.

Duff and Piva Wright then answered for the Gulls, but when Cornwall kicked another the margin was back to three points; heading to time-on in the third.

Xavier Shinners and Wright then kicked two important goals to give the home side a 17-point lead at the final break.

Everything needed to go right for the Dusties to stage a successful comeback.

Jed Pinkerton started the chase in style, booting the opening goal of the last, before

Scanlon produced a match-winning burst of football.

He kicked three consecutive goals; breaking the backbone of the Dusties who had done so well to stay in touch in the contest.

Youngster Panos Papas then put two final nails in the coffin; stretching the margin out to more than the contest deserved.

Scanlon finished with four for the Seagulls, and Duff and Wright three, while Papas made the most of his chances in the final term.

Running-machine Lewis Hill was sensational for the Gulls; while the class of Adam Oxley and grunt of Ray Lengyel helped the home-side sing its song for the first time in 2024.

Kelly can now take a deep breath after his first win at the helm.

“It is a relief, it’s not the nicest feeling losing the first two so it was nice to get one under the belt,” Kelly said.

“We were right in the first two games so we were pretty confident that if we played near our best we’d go pretty well.

“We’ve definitely got work to do, we know that, but relief is definitely a good way to describe the feeling.”

The Gulls suffered a close loss to Cora Lynn in round one, but surprised the football world with a four-point loss to Kilcunda-Bass in round two.

“We knew how good they (Kilcunda-Bass) were going to be, having played a lot of those guys in South East footy over the years, so we were under no illusion as to how difficult it would be,” Kelly said.

“They played well, and transitioned the ball well, but our discipline was a major factor that day, giving away six 50-metre penalties and two 100-metre ones that walked the ball to the goal-square.

“When you lose by four points, those types of things hurt.”

The Seagulls lost some absolute class in the off-season, with ball-magnets Brent Macaffer and Hayden Bertoli-Simmonds both leaving the club.

Kelly said while the departures had hurt, it had also opened the door for a new crop of youngsters at the club.

“They’re irreplaceable footballers, and great people, but the big thing for us is that we knew this would be a transition year for the club,” he said.

“We had 13 players play on the weekend that played in last year’s final, and nine from the grand final team, so this is a completely different side.

“The most exciting thing for us is our kids, we had 14 come up from the under 18s and four or five of them played on the weekend.

“We’re pretty keen to give the guys from

within some opportunity and see how they go.

“We can already see some progress; but we’ve got a long way to go.

“It’s one of the main reasons I wanted to coach this group this year.

“We’ve never had this many juniors coming through, so it’s really exciting for the club.

“We just want to keep improving each week and be a better team by the end of the year.”

As forWarragul Industrials, well the Dusties are now right behind the eight-ball as they take a well-earned rest after a very tough start to the season.

Losses to Phillip Island, Inverloch-Kongwak and the Seagulls were more-or-less guaranteed with an injury list so long. They should regain some key cattle for another massive test, on their home-deck at Western Park, when they welcome the dangerous Nar Nar Goon for their next encounter.

Consecutive games against Garfield, Kooweerup, Bunyip and Dalyston should then settle some nerves as we head to the mid-way point of the season. Cornwall finished with three for the vanquished, andVisser two, while youngster Regan Awty was impressive in just his third game of senior footy.

Travis Ogden was also effective across half back and through the middle, while highlytouted teenager Templeton continues to impress at the level.

Three to be relegated as Outer East Premier drops to 10

By Marcus Uhe

The bottom sides on the Premier Division football ladder will be fighting for survival in Outer East Football Netball (OEFN) this season with confirmation of a triple relegation to take place at season’s end, leaving one club president declaring that their club would need to “consider our options” going forward.

Clubs that finish in 10th, 11th and 12th in Premier Division football will be relegated to Division One, with the premier of Division One to earn promotion to the top flight as Premier Division returns to a 10-team competition, after fielding 12 in 2024.

Edging back to 10 teams will ensure an equitable 18-round fixture, with all teams playing each other twice in home-and-away fixtures, in an effort to strengthen the division’s integrity.

In 2024, each team plays each other once, with seven repeat fixtures.

Emerald, Berwick Springs and Officer/ ROC were promoted to Premier Division for the 2024 season as a result of OEFN’S Competition Structural Review in 2023.

Three divisions became two, with Premier expanding from nine teams to 12, and Division One from seven teams to 11, with Division Two being scrapped.

Berwick Springs Football Netball Club president Ashley Allison said the club’s committee will need to act in the best interests of its members, eager to avoid playing in Division One in 2025.

“We’d have to consider our options,” Al-

lison said.

“We recruited heavily on the basis of being in Premier Division.

“As a committee we’d have to decide what the right thing is for the club.

“We hadn’t had any pre-discussion (before) the Outer East board decided, there was no pre-discussion, from my perspective, that the bottom three would be relegated.”

Division One of OEFN includes teams such as Yea, Powelltown and Alexandra, requiring considerable travel for the Titans, should they be relegated.

OEFN Chief Executive Brett Connell said

the intention was “always to revert to the (10) team premier competition,” given it was the preferred structure according to club feedback in the 2023 Review, and said that all clubs were consulted “on numerous occasions” throughout the process.

“The board has settled on this year, for the relegation and promotion piece, to allow clubs to plan for the season, one or two weeks into the season, they will know that if their footy finishes in 10 11 or 12 position, they’ll be relegated,” Connell said.

“To get back to a competition that has nine home-and-away games is a lot easier

than working around a 12-team competition.

“It’s not ideal this year because it’s uneven, but there will be three that are relegated so we’ll get back to 10.

“We certainly need to get back to 10, that’s what the clubs wanted in the competition structure review and that’s what the board agreed to last year in moving to 12, that we’d be moving back to 10 as soon as we possibly could.”

OEFN’s By-Laws state that only the bottom team at the end of the home-and-away season in Premier Division shall be relegated to Division One and the premiers of Division One receive promotion.

However, law 8.3 states that “If, at the beginning of a season the Premier Division competition has an odd number of teams, or the number of football teams is not ten (10), the Board shall decide the relegation and promotion structure from each division prior to Round 2 of that season.”

Connell said that clubs were told of the return to 10 teams before Round 2, in accordance with the By-Laws.

“Outer East Football Netball has committed to a larger body of work to benchmark the competitions of football and netball to explore whether there is a better relegation/ promotion system than what currently exists,” Connell said.

“Any bench-marking exercise will take some time to explore and then implement, and for the certainty and stability of the competition Premier Division will revert back to a (10) team competition in 2025.”

The confirmation of a triple relegation from Outer East’s Premier Division has raised concerns for Berwick Springs Football Netball Club. 402295

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Exciting Tooradin youngster Xavier Shinners gets a kick away against

Warragul Industrials on Anzac Day. 403602

Pictures: LJUBICA VRANKOVIC Key-defender Cooper Shipp takes a strong intercept mark for the Seagulls against the Dusties. 403602

Gulls on the board

By David Nagel

Kooweerup and Tooradin-Dalmore are off and running in 2024 after the Demons and Seagulls claimed their first victories of the WGFNC A Grade season.

Kooweerup’s first taste of success was particularly impressive, knocking over the previously undefeated Nar Nar Goon, 52-48, on the Goon’s home court at Spencer Street.

The Demons came out blazing, twice scoring four unanswered goals in the opening term to take a 16-12 lead to quarter time.

The class trio of Kate Sidebottom (C), Claise Janssen (WA) and Chantelle Stokkel (WD) were great through the midcourt for the Demons, while Jayda McConkey (GS) and Ash Murphy (GA) were proving a handful in the circle.

But the Goon was never going to give up easily, and with Chantelle Dale (C) and Meaghan Winter (WA) inspiring their teammates, the Goon closed to one goal adrift, early in the second.

The Demons led by two at half time, and overcame a third-quarter arm wrestle to lead by four at the final break.

Kyra Esler (GS) brought the Goon back into the match with some quality shooting, but seven of eight goals – midway through the final term – gave the Demons a match-winning buffer.

The Demons led by as much as eight in the last quarter, before the Goon responded late in the contest.

Tooradin-Dalmore is finally on the board after the Seagulls proved too strong for Warragul Industrials, winning 56-39 on Anzac Day.

The Gulls have had an unusually slow start to the season, losing to Cora Lynn and Kilcunda-Bass, but bounced back to their best against the Dusties.

Chloe Phillips (GS) and Alex Maher (GA) worked hard for their scoring opportunities in the opening term, leaving the Gulls 13-9 ahead, before Phillips scored 12 goals in the second quarter alone to open up a 29-16 advantage.

The second half was pretty even, the Gulls outscoring the Dusties by 27-23, but the winning margin had already been established.

Cora Lynn has made it three wins from three games after the Cobras overcame a dour Bunyip, 39-21, in a low-scoring game at the Cobradome.

After pushing Inverloch-Kongwak in round one, the Cobras will now take victories over Tooradin-Dalmore, Phillip Island and Bunyip into this week’s round-four bye.

Gemma Stacey (GS) proved the difference in a very tight first quarter, but Bunyip bounced back to trail by just six at half time.

The Cobras came out of the blocks firing in the third quarter, ending any chance of a Bunyip revival with six unanswered goals to start the second half.

The Cobras cruised home from there, with star defenders Danielle Cameron (GK) and Annabel Sheppard (GD) conceding just 21 goals for the match.

Speaking of great defensive efforts, back-toback champion Inverloch-Kongwak played an almost perfect first quarter on its way to a 6433 win over Garfield.

The Sea Eagles were ruthless in the open-

ing stanza, with Ella Sadler (GA) and Amy Scott (GS) scoring 16 goals between them, while defenders Millie Sadler (GK) and Renee Pilkington (GD) kept the Stars attack to just three.

The contest was over at that point, although the Stars did rebound; scoring 10 goals in each of the three remaining quarters.

Kelsey Buxton (C) was once again dynamic for the Eagles through the midcourt, while Kate French (WD) started some positive ballmovement from the reigning champs out of defence.

Kim Dowson (WA/WD) and Jemima Sheedy (C/GK) were solid four-quarter contributors for the Stars.

LADDER: Inverloch Kongwak 16, Dalyston 12, Cora Lynn 12, Kilcunda Bass 8, Nar Nar Goon 8, Phillip Island 8, Tooradin Dalmore 4, Korumburra Bena 4, Kooweerup 4, Garfield 4, Bunyip 0, Warragul Industrials 0.

Plenty of positives despite Cannons losses

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Casey’s men and women both suffered defeat on the weekend but there were positive takeaways for both outfits, weakened by unavailability.

The men went down 2-0 to ladder-leading Yarra missing key contributors David Noney and Josh Watson and threw the toughest punch Yarra has had to counter all season.

“We made it tough for them strategically, challenging them with the way we played,” coach Steve Noney said.

“We fiddled around with a few positional changes which worked fairly well.

“We were more aggressive on the ball and put them under more pressure earlier.

“There were quite a few opportunities we could have taken.”

The coach was also full of praise for goal keeper Matthew Hollway who saved a penalty stroke, seconds captain Rhylee Johnson who made the step up and teenagers Tadhg McCurran and Prince Bopanna Achandira.

Meanwhile, the women had a 1-0 to reigning premiers Yarra, defeated for the second consecutive week despite dominating general play.

Casey had eight short corners to Yarra’s five but was unable to convert – a worrying emerging trend for the Cannons.

Across the first three weeks of the season, Casey has generated 21 short corners but been able to convert only two of those.

Michaela Bullock was irrepressible at fullback in her return match, while 16-year-old Aleisha Foot’s consistency is helping her establish a permanent position in theVic League 1 team.

Late lapse costs Casey

By Marcus Uhe

A fourth-quarter fade out consigned the Casey Demons to a third loss of the season on Wednesday afternoon, overrun by Richmond in a Anzac Day eve clash at Richmond’s Swinburne Centre.

Trailing by two points at the final break, Tom Fullarton kicked the allimportant first goal of the final term to retake the lead in what had been a seesawing affair, before the Tigers kicked the final four of the contest to finish 20-point victors, 15.5 95 to 11.9 75. It was a close contest all afternoon, with the lead never more than two points to either side at each of the three breaks - twice to Casey and once to the home side.

Richmond led for much of the contest, however, with Casey’s biggest lead of the contest only seven points late in the first term.

Taylor Whitford’s side showed resilience time and again to ensure the Tigers’ lead never grew beyond 20 points until the dying stages of the afternoon.

The Tigers kicked the consecutive goals on two occasions in the contest and four also twice, where Casey could only manage one run of each.

Where the Tigers had 10 individual goalkickers, Casey had only five, with debutant Shane McAdam and Josh Schache leading the forward pack with three goals apiece.

McAdam, in his first contest in red and blue since being traded from Adelaide at the conclusion of the 2023 AFL season had 11 disposals and took five marks, including two in the first half that will be hard to top as the best of the VFL season.

The first saw him climb onto the shoulders of a Richmond opponent in front of him and fully extend from his already elevated position, while the second saw him complete a lead by jumping into the hip of teammate Will Verrall to elevate over the pack.

Adam Tomlinson finished with 38 disposals and 15 marks and Marty Hore took nine as the key posts down back felt the pressure of the repeat entries from the Tigers.

Lachlan Hunter had 23 disposals.

The Demons will welcome Williamstown to Casey Fields on Sunday in what will be just the second time this season that they will take to the field in consecutive weeks, thanks to a bye in round four and a league-wide bye for the AFL’s Gather Round on the opening weekend of April.

The

and thirds both had wins in a sign of depth given the unavailability across the unit.

The women’s seconds had a strong 2-1 win led by midfielder Rebecca Gregory, while the thirds had a 3-0 win, with youngsters Chantelle Calado and Cleo Guastella forming an excellent forward combination.

men’s seconds

Mikayla McDonald will hope her team can do a better job of converting short corners on the weekend. 335961 Picture: GARY SISSONS

Andy Moniz-Wakefield had 19 disposals for Casey in the Demons’ loss to Richmond. 325648 Picture: ROB CAREW

Abbey Howes looks for a way forward for Tooradin-Dalmore against the Dusties. 403602 Picture: LJUBICA VRANKOVIC

Balancing act for Panthers

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Devon Meadows has moved to 4-0 to start the Mornington Peninsula Football Netball League Division 2 season with a 16.14 110 to 7.3 45 win over Karingal.

The Panthers put Karingal away in the third term, with the 55-point win maintaining Devon Meadows’ top spot on the ladder.

The strong early-season form has been built off the back of a well-balanced list, with the energy and intensity of the young brigade complementing the leadership of the seasoned core.

The Panthers have blooded 12 players aged 21-and-under in 2024.

“The reason they’re playing good footy is they’re all really good friends and they feed off each other,” coach Ryan Hendy said

“They’re driving high standards so the relationship is really exciting because it is all good and well to have those kids at the footy club but you have to try and keep them, and the secret to that is them having a bond with one another.”

Their desire to improve has shone through.

Riley Simmons has come on quickly as a formidable ruck across the past 12 months, allowing Patrick Ryder to play predominantly up forward and cause opposition defensive units plenty of headaches.

Alex Canal is regularly hitting the scoreboard, Patrick Sinnema has been uber-consistent and brother, Toby, stood up on senior debut when the match was in the balance against Pearcedale.

Jack Wilson, Ryan Koo and Riley McDonald are all pushing for midfield minutes in a burgeoning on-ball brigade, highlighting their approach to senior footy, while Nathan Drew has established a position in the backline.

Three of those four spoke separately about the leadership of co-captains Nick Battle and Dean Kent, among others, as they look to settle into the senior side.

“Our list is the most balanced I’ve ever been involved with at a footy club and I’ve played 350-plus games of footy and have been around

it since I was a kid,” Hendy said.

“The balance with youth, middle-aged and experience is perfect so that’s really comforting as a coach to have and is really good for the future of the footy club.

“It’s the best spot the footy club has ever been in and it sets us in good stead.”

The competitiveness of the under-19s is another component of the club’s health.

It has rebounded from a one-win 2023 to having 33 players pressing for selection in a competitive 3-1 outfit this year.

Free night racing admission

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 racing 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 at our two premier venues.”

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.

Cranbourne Meetings: Friday nights from 3 May to 31 May.

Pakenham Meetings: Thursday nights from 9 May to 30 May.

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

The health of the under-19s program is set to further enhance the chemistry of the youth.

Currently, eight of the 12 young players come from an assortment of local clubs, with Devon backing their culture to welcome in good families, rather than building from within.

“We don’t want to be that club that has to go out and get players anymore and it’s not sustainable,” president Chris Langley said.

It highlights the significance of a 120 per cent growth in junior teams across the past five years.

As those players transition into senior footy, Langley is confident that Hendy’s old-school philosophies will continue to unlock their best footy.

“I’ve always been a big believer of playing kids when they’re ready,” Hendy said.

“I grew up at a footy club where it was very satisfying to see the kids get a go and you never know if they will make it unless you chuck them in.

“Every one of them who I have given a crack has really relished it.”

Redbacks host Falcons in perfect early-season test

By Jonty Ralphsmith

A battle of two teams fighting for a spot in the lower rungs of the top five beckons for Hampton Park and Endeavour Hills on Saturday in the Southern Football Netball League.

It’s the sort of game that both will see as must-win to be a legitimate finals contender –an eight point game to kick off May.

Both teams find themselves in similar positions a month into the season – their top handful of players have performed, with their weekto-week fortunes determined by their depth players.

Hampton Park has started the season with victories over St Kilda City, Doveton and Skye, while Endeavour Hills has beaten Highett, Skye and Keysborough.

Both teams’ only loss is to East Malvern, but while Endeavour Hills were soundly outplayed for most of the game against one of the competition’s best, Hampton Park challenged them, thanks to Jye King closing down gun forward Isaac Morrisby.

King will again have a tough task this week, likely to find himself matched up on tall forward Alex Cann, who is coming off a four goal haul and is capable of taking a contested mark.

It is set to be a battle of King’s brute strength and physicality and Cann’s marking craft, with Hampton Park needing to rely on the work rate of wingers and midfielders to deny him space to lead into given they lack other options to play on him.

Another route Hampton park could take is backing Corey Braden’s bodywork on Cann, to release King to play either as an interceptor or in the ruck – where he turned the game on Saturday against Skye.

Consigned to losing the ruck battle for much of this year, the Redbacks will hope to

neutralise against the Falcons, given neither team has an established recognised ruck. Tyler Studd has been competing manfully in the ruck, chopped out by FallonWanganeen, for Endeavour Hills given SeanVanVelsen’s absence, while Hampton Park was also unable to replace their departed 2023 ruck, Andy Parker. Endeavour Hills struggled for much of Saturday to get their hands on it in close and will punished if they repeat that this week, given the clean hands of Jayden Weichard in close.

Hampton Park’s challenge will be in approaching the game the right way and starting well after a lethargic first half against Skye; John Rafferty, Liam Hasler and co. will exploit the undersized defence and have the capacity to put the game out of reach if Hampton Park struggle.

Elsewhere in the SFNL, Doveton faces the biggest test in the Division 2 competition –Murrumbeena at Murrumbeena but come in after back-to-back wins, while Cranbourne faces Mordialloc.

Racegoers are being invited to a free night at the

Jayden Weichard is a natural ballwinner.

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Picture: ROB CAREW

Youngster Alex Canal takes a mark inside 50 in the last quarter of Devon Meadows’ battle with Karingal. 403705

Picture: GARY SISSONS