Geared up for bike ride
Pakenham local Beau Kapitany has been setting the wheels in motion in preparation for his return to the Great Vic Bike Ride after a hiatus stretching more than 20 years.
About 3000 riders across the country have begun training for the historic ride, which will celebrate its 40th anniversary with a 501-kilometre trip from Wodonga to Healesville from 23 November to 1 December.
Beau’s five-year-old daughter Shae has been accompanying him on his rides around town as he ramps up his training regime.
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Beau Kapitany and his daughter Shae are flying by as Beau trains for this year’s Great Vic Bike Ride. (Stewart Chambers: 424462)
Rallying for Spiga
By Corey Everitt
More than $100,000 has been raised for local Giovanni Spiga after a collision in Kooweerup left him fighting for his life.
Spiga is a well-known figure in the local racing industry who works as a travelling foreman and track rider for Moody Racing.
On Tuesday 6 August, he was involved in a truck collision where he suffered life-threatening injuries and was airlifted to the Royal Melbourne Hospital.
The news shook the local racing industry and Moody Racing’s Katherine Coleman said it left everyone ‘numb’.
“He is an integral part of our team, everyone just adores him, we were just numb when we heard,” Coleman said.
Spiga is still in hospital in a stable, but critical condition. Medical expenses are covered, but many of the community requested a gofundme
page to be made for people to ensure their support of Spiga and his family.
Moody Racing started the gofundme where funds raised will go personally to his recovery.
“It’s something for the racing industry and the community who were left reeling by the news and wanting to do something to help out,” Coleman said.
“It gives a bit of peace of mind to his family, no donation is too small, it’s all appreciated.
“Everything will go to ease his recovery on the long road ahead.”
Set up for just those who wish to support, Moody Racing put a $100,000 goal as just a general marker without the intention for this to be reached.
As of Wednesday 14 August, it stood at $100,763.
If you wish to donate to Giovanni Spiga and his family go to gofundme.com/f/giovanni-spiga
No forced health mergers
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
A feared $200 million budget cut at Monash Health has been averted in a State Government health services reform announced on 8 August.
Victorian hospital executives had reportedly discussed possible bed closures, elective surgery cuts, cancelling breast screening and special-care cots in the face of “significant” funding cuts.
Premier Jacinta Allan announced an additional $1.5 billion for hospitals to end months of speculation that hospitals would have to close beds, halt elective surgeries and breast screenings.
It would help cover “record demand” in the emergency department as well as a further 10,000 elective surgeries.
According to the Government, hospitals had operated without an agreed budget during Covid and it was “time to return to something a bit more normal”.
The Government also announced that health services, such as Monash, would not be forced into merger.
An independent Health Services Plan review had recommended the mergers, such as Monash Health and the West Gippsland Health Group forming a South Metro LHN (Local Health Network).
It also proposed a Bayside LHN combining Alfred Hospital, Kooweerup Regional Health Service and Peninsula Health.
Each network would comprise of a major hospital, a women’s and a children’s hospital. In the case of the South Metro LHN, all three would be at Monash Medical Centre, Clayton.
In a streamlining move, the LHNs would eventually share IT and payroll functions.
The proposed LHN boundaries were still subject to “further consultation with the sector”, according to the Government.
“The Government will provide guidance to health service boards on principles to underpin Local Health Service Network groupings,” a Gov-
ernment website stated.
“Health services will then be able to propose groupings for their region for approval by Government.”
The State Government accepted 26 of the review’s 27 recommendations either in-principle or in full, but declined to force mergers.
As part of the reform, the Government will also establish an agency Hospitals Victoria to oversee collaboration between hospitals as well as their financial sustainability.
Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas said the reforms would lead to a “better integrated and connected” health system while “protecting the lo-
cal services we know Victorians trust and rely on”.
The State Opposition labelled the extra funding an “humiliating backdown” after speculation of “secret health cuts”.
“These funding cuts were never about efficiencies or better services, but mopping up the real-world consequence of a decade of financial mismanagement and record debt under Labor,” opposition leader John Pesutto said.
Opposition health spokesperson Georgie Crozier said the Government had caused enormous concern about the potential loss of health services and jobs.
Victorian Healthcare Association chief execu-
tive Leigh Clarke said the Health Services Plan was “centralising administration and resources across health services without immediately having to consolidate.”
“The VHA supports the intent of reform – to achieve equity of access to clinical care for all Victorians.
“The return of funding of $1.5 billion is focused on avoiding the most significant of risks to clinical staff and services – and we look forward to seeing the additional funding to achieve system reform.”
Monash Health declined to comment.
Premier Jacinta Allan announced an additional $1.5 billion for hospitals to end months of speculation that hospitals would have to close beds, halt elective surgeries and breast screenings. (AAP Image/ Joel Carrett)
Casey Hospital in Berwick is part of the Monash Health network. (Supplied)
Honora Fields is the name
Cardinia Council has added the suffix of Fields to the shire’s newest suburb name to comply with Geographic Names Victoria (GNV) requirements and finalise the naming process.
Honora Fields pays homage to Honora Carney, a Cardinia Shire local whose family has significant ties to land between Pakenham and Nar Nar Goon, dating back to 1869.
It is also the land where Honora, together with her husband Michael and their seven children, operated their farming business for many years, with members of the Carney family still living within the suburb area.
Honora Ryan was born in County Tipperary, Ireland in December 1836.
On the ship to Australia, Honora Ryan met a young Irish man named Michael Carney.
Living in the late 19th century and through to the turn of the 20th, Honora laid down the roots with her children which would see the Carney family own and farm a significant part of the land which Pakenham East is designated to be today.
Honora Carney and her husband Michael leased a large parcel of land between Pakenham and Nar Nar Goon on the south side of Princes Highway from 1869.
They had seven children and ran a farming business together before Michael passed away in 1880.
Honora purchased the land south of the highway in 1887 and the land north of the highway in 1902.
She continued to run the family farming business with her children until her death in 1912.
Cardinia Council mayor Jack Kowarzik said the council adopted the name Honora at the 15 July council meeting following a five-week consultation period during which the name received the highest number of votes from the community.
“Following its adoption, the name was sent to the Registrar of Geographic Names for approval and registration, with council receiving feedback
that the name requires a suffix to be approved,” he said.
“We’ve been in consultation with the Carney family who have proposed Fields as the suffix for the name as it references the land which Honora purchased in the area.
“The name Honora Fields will be now submitted as the suburb name to meet the naming rules
requirements of GNV. “
Over a five week period, the council received a total of 1840 valid surveys, with the majority of each category of voter voting for a different preferred name, with those living or owning land within the suburb area preferring Alice Park, residents living in Pakenham, Nar Nar Goon or elsewhere in Cardinia preferring Honora and those who live outside of Cardinia but have friends or within Cardinia preferring Debra.
However, the council officers decided to use Honora due to Honora receiving the most first preferred votes at 636, compared with Alice Park and Debra both at 399.
Honora was the second most preferred name of those responding who own property within the suburb, and Honora has the stronger link than Alice Park with the family name appearing on parish plans and the family still owning land and living within the suburb area.
Honora Fields includes sections of land between Pakenham, Nar Nar Goon and Nar Nar Goon North and is expected to accommodate 7,000 new homes.
The naming process for the suburb has now entered a 30-day notice period, with homeowners within the suburb boundaries contacted should they like to make a submission in support or objection of the use of the Fields suffix within the name.
Submissions must be received by Thursday 12 September via email to mail@cardinia.vic.gov.au
A crane removes the old railway crossing signage and signalling equipment.
Level Crossing Removal Project workers with the removed boom gate. (Supplied)
The Carney family in the 1890s. Back row from left: William, John, Ellen, Johanna. Front row: Mary, Honora, Thomas and Alice. (Supplied)
THE LOWDOWN
Q&A
Tell us a fun fact about yourself!
I dressed up as a carrot for my 40th birthday. I had always wanted to dress up as a carrot and thought that would be the perfect opportunity. So, I made everybody that was coming to my party dress up as something that started with the first letter of their name because my name is Cindy and carrot starts with C!
What do you love the most about your job?
This is such a hard question to answer because there are so many aspects of my job that are incredibly rewarding. I have pure moments of joy when I can physically feel a breakthrough with a new client after a certain period of time. Each new client that comes to us is a different person which means we need to change the way we adapt our service delivery to make them feel welcome, included, safe and encouraged. Sometimes that feeling of success can come early. Sometimes it takes a little while longer but every single time I feel that moment of “Oh my goodness we just made progress and this person now feels safe and included” is one of the best feelings that I can have in my job. If you were an animal, what animal would you be?
I would like to be my dog
“Mavis”. She is a toy poodle and lives the best life in the world with me. I adopted her four months ago. She is five years old and was used for breeding. She is quite anxious, however, we are working on building her confidence, much like what I do in my job in everyday life. She has come so far already. My favourite thing to do is to hang out with her and feed her, yummy doggy treats. She has become my best little friend and I love her.
What was your most memorable moment?
I’ve had many memorable moments in my life but the one that comes to mind still has me pinching myself. It was recently in Bali when my long-term partner Daz who also works in disability proposed to me in a stunning exclusively prepared private dinner setting on the beach. He had planned the whole night with a team in Bali prior to us leaving Melbourne and I have never been more surprised
NEWS
in my life. It was the single most romantic setting I have ever been in complete with a professional photographer who captured the moment perfectly along with a photo shoot along the beach. Of course,I said yes!
What were you like as a kid?
So different to the person I have become now. I have my parents to thank for bringing me up to be a very well mannered and respectful young lady who really didn’t do anything naughty when I was going through my teenage years. I was always scared I was going to get in trouble if I snuck out of the house or wagged school. I once got in trouble at school for smoking behind the lockers but it wasn’t me! I had to do the detention anyway. I never liked smoking. Overall I was a quiet child which over the years has changed. I am now a much louder and vibrant person with a very colourful personality and zest for life which I believe everybody should have. I don’t tolerate nastiness or disrespect - this extends into my business. I simply treat everybody with respect and kindness and think the world
with Umbrella Support’s Cindy Warren
would be a better place if everybody conducted themselves in the same manner.
What event, past or present, would you like to witness?
I would have loved to have gone to an Elvis Presley concert. My late mum Sofie was a huge Elvis fan. She also was the first volunteer as part of the Umbrella Support program. She gave me a love for 70s and 80s music and I still listen to that type of music every single day.
Which six dinner guests, dead or alive, would you invite to dinner?
Oh, this is a very hard question because my dinner table would probably have 50 people seated, not just six. Okay let’s give this ago! Oprah Winfrey, Marilyn Monroe, Princess Diana, Barack Obama, Helen Keller and Elvis Presley.
What would you do on your perfect ‘day off’ I would start with coffee in bed with my little dog Mavis then a trip to a day spa where I would indulge in a ridiculously long massage treatment and facial. Then I would meet my best friend Deni for a long lunch and a few cocktails and finish with dinner at home with my brand new fiance Daz and my beautiful toy poodle Mavis watching trashy TV and planning our next holiday together.
Where is your happy place?
Definitely at home. I recently moved to a much quieter location and it’s beautiful. When I first moved I missed my son and our dog Louie. That’s when I decided to adopt Mavis and life got much better for both of us. My home is definitely my happy place but it’s especially great when Daz is with us which is a lot of the time.
Where is your dream holiday destination?
Ihavebeentosomanyplacesintheworld.Iamvery fortunate to have seen a lot. Daz and I once spent Christmas Day in New York which was a bucket list tickbuttheplaceIamstillyettoseeandwilloneday look forward to visiting is Santorini. With that said I am still on cloud nine after coming home from Bali and Daz’s most unexpected romantic proposal. I would go back to Bali tomorrow to relive that evening but Santorini is definitely on my list.
THREE … facts about strokes
Visit strokefoundation.org.au for more information. Remember FAST. Face, arms, speech, time. Call 000 immediately if you recognise any of the following signs.
1
Signs of stroke include FASTface, arms, speech, time. Has their mouth dropped, are they able to lift both arms above their head, are they slurring their speech or having trouble understanding you, call emergency services immediately.
2
Strokes can have many long lasting effects including loss of vision, fatigue, difficulty speaking, reading or writing, struggling to swallow, personality changes and problems with memory.
3
High blood pressure, smoking tobacco, diabetes, atrial fibrillation and abnormal blood lipids can all increase the risk of experiencing a stroke.
Pakenham Probus celebrates Christmas in July
On Wednesday 31 July, 44 members of the Probus Club of Pakenham made their way to the Outlook Community Centre to celebrate Christmas in July with other members of the Pakenham community.
Attendees were treated to three hours of entertainment provided by Frankie Stevens and Linda Reid.
The pair started off with plenty of traditional Christmas songs and then branched out into popular songs from the past.
The audience joined in, singing their lungs out and, for some of the fitter ones, dancing to the music.
Attendees then enjoyed a two-course lunch provided by the staff at Outlook, with tea and coffee available.
The club members said it was a good way to forget about the cold weather and to catch up with friends.
Betty Willis, Pat Sherwell, Joan Vogels and Dianne Roberts. (Supplied)
Wendy de Wit, Sue Ralph and Kay Young. (Supplied)
Lyn Knight, Julian Watson and Dianne Rae. (Supplied)
Cindy Warren is the founder and director of Umbrella Support, focusing on personalised, long-term guidance and help. (Supplied)
OPINION THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN
NEWS
Thumbs up
To the Goon veterans team winning the Grand Final yesterday
Thumbs down
To all the street lights - especially ones along the Princes Highway and at major intersections - that are out and have been out for quite some time. Get them fixed, its too dangerous.
Thumbs up
To the weather - it’s brilliant.
Thumbs down
To whoever is taking plants from others’ gardens.
Thumbs down
To all the potholes all over this state. I swear every few months I have to replace rims. This is getting ridiculous.
Thumbs down
To all the road closures. There are so many detour signs you don’t know which ones to follow.
Thumbs down
To those dumping their rubbish.
Thumbs up
To a beautiful weekend and being very productive outside.
Origami raises awareness
By Ethan Benedicto
The large steps on the second level of Bunjil Library were decorated by over 100 origami houses on Monday 12 August, a combined community effort to raise awareness amidst Homelessness Week.
Ticking off each colour of the rainbow, the houses were made by members of the local community which included children’s groups but also adults, with Bunjil Library previously inviting the public to take part in the craft-making activity.
Connected Libraries’ manager of children, youth and outreach, Cenza Fulco, said that the houses were part of a much larger initiative for Homelessness Week.
“The display of origami houses kind of really resonates with [Homelessness Week], and it’s a cute thing to get the community involved in making a house themselves.
“But it’s also about the conversations around the creation of the house that you can talk about.
“We’ve had children’s groups making houses, had adults drop in to make houses, and it’s the conversations around you know, ‘there are people that are homeless that don’t have a house like we do, so can you make a house?’,” she said.
The concept of Origami Houses began with Homelessness Australia, with the significant, yearly display of 6000 houses at the steps at Parliament House, representing 10 per cent of the 60,000 social homes needed in Victoria.
Over 72,839 origami houses were folded across the state, with a large portion of those displayed at the Parliament steps on 31 July.
At a more local level, 1800 origami homes were folded throughout all six Connected Libraries branches, including Bunjil Library.
To Ms Fulco, the act of speaking about homelessness, from children to adults is important to “break down the stigma”.
“I think there is sometimes the perception of homeless people we see and the fear around them, but it’s about making them real people with
real experiences.
“We at Connected Libraries have always wanted to create a safe and welcoming environment for everyone, and that includes people that are homeless or sleeping rough.
“For them to feel welcomed, even just spending the day in the library where they’re not bothered or annoyed; and that’s part of creating safe spaces and how it connects for [Connected Libraries],” she said.
The other integral part of the origami houses initiative is its encouragement of the homelessness drive and the fundraising surrounding it.
Discover Joy is one of these endeavours during the Christmas season, where food materials and other perishables are delivered to community organisations.
“We partner with some community organisations and encourage people to come to the libraries to donate and pass the good message along,” Ms Fulco said.
Part of the much larger campaign by the Victorian Homelessness Network, it calls for the construction of 60,000 social homes to meet the state’s current need, as well as implementing a 10 year nationwide place with a commitment to end homelessness.
The Donation Drive at Bunjil Library is currently ongoing and will conclude on Sunday 18 August.
Sam (left) and Mitch (right) both in front of a small portion of the origami houses made at Bunjil Library. (Ethan Benedicto: 425289)
The origami houses, while all the same shape, came in different colours and patterns, some even with personalised decals and drawings. (425289)
Sam from Connected Libraries smiling next to a row of origami houses. (425289)
NEWS Sparks fly on bike trails
By Matthew Sims
Pakenham locals out and about may have spotted resident Beau Kapitany and his daughter Shae riding around trails and through local parks.
The local electrician has been training for this year’s Great Vic Bike Ride, which will see about 3000 riders ride more than 500 kilometres from Wodonga to Healesville from Saturday 23 November to Sunday 1 December.
Mr Kapitany first participated in the ride with a couple of friends in high school and has decided to return after more than 20 years.
“I was in Year 9 and the freedom of the ride was a terrific getaway,” he said.
“My advice for the first timer is to exercise beforehand.
“I’m unfit at the moment, but I’ve committed to the Great Vic Bike Ride so it’s a tremendous incentive to do more riding and get fit.”
As part of the ride’s 40th anniversary, Bicycle Network chief executive Alison McCormack said the ride would be returning to where it all began in 1984.
“This year’s Great Vic Bike Ride is a nod to the ride’s extraordinary history which has introduced tens of thousands of cyclists to Victoria’s varied and beautiful countryside, local sights and culinary delights,” she said.
“With a mixture of rolling hills and valleys it’s no surprise that Victoria’s North East has become Australia’s most popular biking destination in recent years.
“The Great Vic Bike Ride has been exploring regional Victoria for 40 years.”
Ms McCormack said beyond the physical challenge of the ride, the event was also an opportunity for riders to enjoy a number of locations across regional Victoria.
“It’s social, inspiring and a challenge,” she said.
“Great Vic riders love becoming a local for a night, sampling produce and dropping into the restaurants, pubs, shops and cafes.
“They fall in love with the places they visit often returning to explore more after the ride.”
There are nine, five and three day ride options giving riders the choice to cycle the whole route or
Teenager begged for help
By Tara Cosoleto, AAP
A teenage girl begged neighbours for help after seeing her father allegedly hack her mother to death with an axe and kitchen knife.
CCTV footage of the girl, then aged 16, banging on her neighbour’s front door was played to a Victorian Supreme Court jury on Tuesday as her father stands trial for murder.
Prosecutors allege Dinush Kurera, 47, killed Nelomie Perera in December 2022 in a “sustained, brutal and vicious attack” with a hatchet and kitchen knife.
The 47-year-old has pleaded not guilty to murder, admitting he killed his wife but saying he did so to save his own life.
The daughter, now aged 18, told the jury she saw her father repeatedly strike and stab her mother with the axe and knife.
During her evidence on Monday, she told the court Kurera came to their house armed with an axe and threatened to burn the property down if they tried to contact police.
She said her mother was already bleeding from the head when she came downstairs and when her brother tried to flee, Kurera chased after him with the axe.
The teen told the jury she ran to the bathroom and tried to call triple zero but the calls did not connect.
She then heard her mother’s screams so she ran back into the kitchen and allegedly saw Kurera holding an axe and hovering over Ms Perera, who was bleeding on the kitchen floor.
Kurera went to grab a knife from a kitchen drawer and the teen unsuccessfully tried to stop him, the jury was told.
He then used that knife and the axe to allegedly strike and stab Ms Perera repeatedly in the neck and upper body, the girl said.
The teen told the court she picked up a knife as well and was going to stab her father in the back but she did not follow through with her plan.
“I didn’t want to get in trouble,” she said.
“I felt like she was already going to die ei-
Dinush Kurera (left) arrives to the Supreme Court of Victoria in Melbourne, Wednesday, 31 July, 2024. (AAP Image/James Ross)
ther way so I didn’t know what to do.”
Ms Perera yelled out “I’m dead” as she was allegedly attacked and the girl ran from the house to her neighbours next door, the jury was told.
CCTV footage played to the court showed her banging on the front door, saying “dad’s killing mum” and “I’m pretty sure she’s dead”.
Kurera sat expressionless in the courtroom as the video was played.
He has pleaded not guilty to murder, saying he was acting in self-defence when he killed Ms Perera because she came at him with a knife.
Kurera also denies striking his son with the axe as he tried to flee the house.
Ms Perera was found in a pool of blood with 35 separate injuries, the jury was told.
Their son sustained injuries to the back of his head, knee and shoulder.
The daughter’s evidence continues.
· 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732)
· Lifeline 13 11 14
sections.
After starting in Wodonga, overnight stops are in Myrtleford, Wangaratta, Mansfield, Alexandra and Marysville.
The ride will finish on 1 December after 501 kilometres in Healesville with a rare opportunity to ride the picturesque Black Spur car-free. For more information, visit greatvic.com.au
Pakenham resident Beau Kapitany’s daughter Shae has been helping him with his training for the Great Vic Bike Ride. (Stewart Chambers: 424462)
History project underway
The Friends of Wilson Botanic Park Berwick’s new history project is well underway, with a grant from the City of Casey to digitise its thirtyplus years of archival records.
On 6 August, the group held a background briefing along with lunch, with the attendance of council staff who were present when the Friends was initially formed.
With the support of council staff, the group created a visual display of the then and now scenes of the park’s visitor centre, with the current display highlighting the Rose Garden and Arbour Walk.
Coordinator of the history group, Paula Taylor said that “visitors will be amazed at the transformation”.
“The display will change every few months, we invite visitors to stop by and learn about the history of both the park and the Friends,” she said.
Special invitees to the lunch meeting included former CEO of the City of Berwick and mayor of Casey, Neil Lucas; former City of Berwick senior design engineer and later manager of technical services for Casey, Ron Chidgey.
Paula Taylor added that both guests were “proactive in the establishment of Wilson Botanic Park Berwick” and have “maintained a lifelong interest and connection”.
Attendees of the meeting learned that the council faced a number of challenges concerning the park and that its development was dependent on successful applications for support from State and Federal government agencies and other community groups.
“It was also dependent on volunteers for their physical work and fundraising efforts,” Ms Taylor said.
“Neil and Ron are in complete agreement that the park could not have progressed as well as it has and become what it is today without the countless hours of dedicated volunteer work contributed by the Friends.”
Mr Lucas, one of the special guests learned about the work of the Friends of the Wagga Wagga Botanic Gardens, where a report to the
council suggested the establishment of the current Friends group at Wilson Botanic Park; after a public meeting in 1992, the group was formed. Mr Chidgey had been directly involved with the contracted engineering company Scott and
something
The
“a
For more information on the Friends and the
its history and background, contact Paula Taylor at paulafwbpb@gmail.com
Cardinia volunteers honoured at Emerald Lake Park
By Shamsiya Hussainpoor and Tanya Steele
Long time volunteers and custodians of the Emerald Lake Park have been honoured by Cardinia Shire Council in a ceremony to commend their efforts with the Friends of Emerald Lake Park (FELP) community group.
The FELP volunteers have been volunteering in the park for nearly 24 years and gathered on Thursday 8 August to celebrate their long-term contributions to the vibrant community space.
Over speeches and morning tea certificates of appreciation were presented by Cardinia Shire council Mayor Jack Kowarzik to former FELP group president William (Bill) Whitbourn, treasurer Heather Whitbourn and Peggy Stonehouse.
Mayor Kowarzik also surprised President Sheila Hampson with a certificate as well and thanked the four volunteers for for looking after the park for not just his generation but for generations to come.
“Thank you very much, we’ve got a good group of people in this group,“ Ms Hampson said.
“I’m very surprised and very honoured,“ Ms Stonehouse said.
The event was also attended by Ranges ward councillor Jeff Springfield along with other FELP members and Cardinia council staff Belinda Powell, Sam Cross, Deidre Lovell and Lisa Kuriata.
Ms Hampson said in her speech that member Bill had done a terrific job in helping their group get established, Heather dealt with the group’s money as treasurer and Peggy has worked in the gardens tirelessly.
“It’s time to acknowledge the work they have done,“ she said.
“We (FELP) are proud to continue with this work.“
Mayor Kowarzik said he was excited to be there at the gathering.
“These certificates are just a small token of gratitude for your hard work and your dedica-
tion to maintaining the park as a cherished space for the community to enjoy,“ he said.
“Bill has served as group president and made significant strides in fostering communication cooperation by setting up the website and newsletter, he also helped establish the Emerald Lake Park advisory committee - his contributions have made a lasting impact on the community and of course the park itself.“
“Heather has been a dedicated member since 2001, a position she still holds today. She has been instrumental and made a significant impact on the Emerald Lake Park advisory committee.“
“Peggy Stonehouse has consistently participated in gardening activities and her valuable input and unwavering dedication make her a vital part of FELP and the Emerald Lake Park advisory committee.“
Handing over the surprise fourth certificate Mayor Kowarzik said Ms Hampson has been President since 2013 and he would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to her for her contributions to the park.
“Under her leadership, the group has flourished with dedicated members gathering for three working bees a month - accumulating around 500 hours of volunteer work annually,“
he said.
Ranges ward councilor Jeff Springfield on the day emphasised the importance of having groups like the FELP.
“For nearly 24 years now, this group has been doing commendable work in the maintenance, upkeeping and the progression of this asset, which is unique in all of Cardinia Shire,” he said.
“I don’t know any other community groups within our council that have been successful in doing this continuously for this amount of time - putting this selfless work for the benefit of the whole community, and it’s so worthwhile and necessary because council can’t work in isolation,“ he said.
“It’s an absolute honour to commend the members today, I thank everyone for their great work.”
Ms Hampson said the FELP has contributed to the success of keeping the Emerald Lake park green and healthy.
“We’ve planted lots of trees over the years and we’ve been very happy,” Ms Hampson said.
“We started off with a very large group of 40 plus people, which gradually whittled away. In a few of those years, there were only six of us left.”
“We’ve had terrific support, particularly since our natural reserve team came on board,
we’ve been able to establish a very good report with the council. We are looking forward to more things happening.“
The group currently has around 20 regular members but are always happy for more to come along.
The Emerald Lake Park vegetation management project has been ongoing since 2010 and FELP has recently been a recipient in the Victorian Landcare grants program which is supported by the Victorian government.
The group received $18,500 to support works to be undertaken in 2025.
Volunteers and married couple Bill and Heather Whitbourn said they love the park.
“It’s our backyard - I used to live in Upwey and this was my swimming hole when I was younger,“ Mrs Whitbourn said.
Mr Whitbourn remembers visiting the park in the 1940’s as a child.
“I used to ask my parents to bring me here from Ivanhoe,“ he said.
The volunteers all shrugged off their hard work over the years, but highlighted the camaraderie and friendships they’ve developed from being part of FELP.
“It’s very satisfying,“ said Mr Whitbourn. You develop a lot of friendships and that’s been one of the biggest benefits of it all,“ said Mrs Whitbourn.
Ms Stonehouse said it can be hard to find consistent members and she herself has enjoyed the group as a way to connect and make lifelong friends in the area.
“I love the group and love the park, I just wish more of the community would dig in a little bit and help in voluntary work whether it’s here or elsewhere,” she said.
The event ended with a celebration over morning tea and then councillors and council staff walked with FELP members to view areas where weed management works and re-vegetation have been undertaken during this year.
Left to right: Cr Jeff Springfield, FELP president Sheila Hampson, Cardinia Mayor Jack Kowarzik, FELP members Heather Whitbourn and William (Bill) Whitbourn and Peggy Stonehouse. (Tanya Steele).
Furphy which designed the park and proposed the timeline and stages for its development.
park’s eventual transformation from a bare quarry into a lush botanical wonderland was a massive and expensive undertaking, but
that Mr Chidgey described as
labour of love”.
Wilson Botanic Park,
From left to right: Matthew Chester, Lex Nieboer, Neil Lucas, Paula Taylor, Jenny Duncan, Ron Chidgey, Kay Drysdale, Jim Drysdale. (Supplied)
In the cold for a cause
By Sahar Foladi
Refugees from the South East have joined an encampment outside the Department of Home Affairs in Melbourne, calling on the new Minister Tony Burke for “urgent policy reform”.
Among thousands of asylum seekers waiting in the ‘fast-track’ process, they say they have had enough of living in limbo - some for more than a decade.
On Sunday 11 August the group were set to complete a month of encampment and 24-houra day protest, braving extreme cold at times.
Thanu Mylvaganam fled Sri Lanka at the young age of 18. He didn’t imagine camping outside the Immigration office 12 years later, given the horrific situation back home.
“My three brothers were killed by the Sri Lankan army and I had to leave my mother and father behind.
“I have lived in Dandenong since I arrived in 2013 and have been working hard, getting along with the Australian community, paying tax and GST.”
He owns a transport company but without a permanent protection visa it’s impossible for him to embrace his parents again.
“My heart is broken, waiting 12 years for protection and not knowing whether I will be able to see my mother and father.
“My father had a heart attack last month and my mother has heart problems.”
His father luckily survived the heart attack after a successful operation.
A national push demanding justice has included the launch of an indefinite 24/7 protest in front of Minister Burke’s office in NSW. They say the Labor Party has failed to “provide a remedy for the failed system.”
Advocates also call for urgent protection to “address the widespread mental health and homelessness issues arising from the lack of safety net and certainty”.
According to the latest Department of Home Affairs report, 7376 applicants have had their applications refused, expired or cancelled while 3228 Temporary Protection Visa (TPV), Safe Haven Enterprise Visa (SHEV) and RoS applicants are awaiting an outcome, bringing the total to 10,604 in limbo.
Victoria accommodates the largest TPV and SHEV applicants (879) followed by Sydney (725) mainly from Iran, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka and a large pool identified as ‘Stateless’ (566), The group of protesters are comprised of those refused a protection visa (2821) or are awaiting judicial review (4555) or are awaiting a response for their application (3228).
Introduced in 2014 by then Immigration Minister Scott Morrison, the ‘fast track’ system was supposed to process temporary protection visa applications at a faster pace.
It shortened the steps necessary to determine an appropriate outcome for each protection claims such as disabling the Immigration Assessment Authority (IAA) to hear directly from the people seeking asylum and instead making decisions based of information before the Department of Immigration.
This resulted in the IAA making unfair and
legally incorrect decisions forever, according to refugee advocates.
Some of those on TPVs or SHEVs were granted bridging visas. According to each applicant’s circumstances, they included conditions such as no access to Medicare, Centrelink, and no right to work or attend higher education.
Recently, there was an emotional vigil held for the Dandenong based Tamil asylum seeker Uthayakaran Periyathamby who passed away in his sleep after spending more than a decade in limbo and full of struggles.
In February 2023, the Federal Government announced a Resolution of Status (RoS) visa for 19,000 asylum seekers as a pathway to permanent visa.
As at 30 June 2024 there were 18,026 RoS visas issued, with 2,038 RoS visa applications on hand.
Those left behind the RoS visa road to permanent residence include Iranians (519) Sri Lankans (245) as well as Rohingyas.
According to the Federal Government, the “flawed” IAA will be replaced by a “user-focused, efficient, accessible, independent and fair” Administrative Review Tribunal (ART) on 14 October 2024.
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Around we go...
Main Street will be closed at the roundabout underneath the bridge from Tuesday 20 August to Friday 23 August to complete line marking of the road and signage installation.
During this time, crews will also undertake road repairs on Webster Way near the intersection of Bald Hill Road.
Henty Street will also be closed at the roundabout. Access to Henty Street will be maintained via McGregor Road.
Works will take place from 7am to 7pm, and Main Street and Henty Street will reopen each night. Access to businesses and homes will be maintained at all times. Directly impacted properties will be notified. What to expect:
· Main Street and Henty Street will be closed at the roundabout
· Works from 7am to 7pm
· Increased construction noise and vehicles in the area
· Minor delays with traffic management and detours in place
· Short term lane closure on Webster Way near the intersection of Bald Hill Road
Changes to the way you travel from 7am to 7pm, Tuesday 20 August to Friday 23 August:
· Main Street will be closed at the roundabout.
· Henty Street will be closed at the roundabout. Access to Henty Street will be maintained via McGregor Road.
· Pedestrians will be detoured around the works area.
For detour information, visit bigbuild. vic.gov.au/library/level-crossing-removalproject/pakenham/pakenham/works/ main-street-closure-august-2024
Main Street’s level crossing was recently replaced with a roundabout. (File)
Encampment outside the Department of Home Affairs office in Melbourne depicting Rathy (closest).
Dandenong asylum-seeker Thanu Mylvaganam with Rathy in encampment outside the Home Affairs Department office in Melbourne. (Supplied)
Study rebuts Meta’s claims
In the first half of 2024, one-third of Australians accessed Facebook for news, a new study reveals.
The finding contradicts Meta’s long-standing assertion that news content is a minor part of the Facebook experience for most Australian users.
Meta has previously used this claim to justify its decision to abandon commercial agreements with local publishers.
The implications of this are significant for the local journalism landscape, especially for the more than 230 newspapers who are part of Country Press Australia, the association representing the interests of regional and rural newspapers across the country.
The research emphasises the essential role that news media plays in Australia, particularly how regional newspapers contribute to offering balanced and precise news coverage.
More than 40 per cent of Australians cited news access as a key motivator for their daily social media activity, with this tendency more noticeable among Gen Z and millennials at 60 per cent and 53 per cent, respectively.
Country Press Australia President Andrew Schreyer said there were significant industry challenges ahead, and forecast potential closures of up to 50 member outlets as current agreements under the News Media Bargaining Code with Meta near their expiration.
The study also found that while overall Facebook usage is waning, half of the Australians still turn to social media for news, with 25 per cent using it as their primary news source.
These findings starkly contradict Meta’s position that news is a minimal component of the content seen by Australians on its platforms, which Meta claimed represents less than three per cent of the total.
This study, initiated by News Corp and conducted by Dynata, refutes those statements.
This research release aligns with the media industry’s wait on the Albanese government’s decision regarding Meta’s obligations under the News Media Bargaining Code, which might compel Meta to negotiate compensation for content with news providers.
Meta has threatened to block Australian news content should these costs be enforced.
In an article published in The Australian on Monday, News Corp Australasia executive chairman Michael Miller expressed concerns over Meta’s threats to remove news content, potentially
replacing it with less reliable sources.
He also criticised Meta for its lack of accountability.
The study shows strong public support for social media responsibility, with 85 per cent of Australians agreeing that platforms should prevent the spread of false or harmful information.
Without trustworthy journalism, 66 per cent believe the societal impact would be negative, anticipating increases in misinformation and decreased media diversity.
Mr Miller highlighted the significant impact
these findings have on public understanding and the obligations of large tech companies, criticising Meta for avoiding transparency.
This analysis of 2,500 Australians confirms the integral role of social media in their news consumption habits, countering Meta’s underestimations of news relevance on its platform, and exposing the misleading nature of its claims.
Mr Schreyer further highlighted the implications for democracy.
“Democracy in areas without local news is
lost. Who is going to stand up to a council decision that doesn’t meet the pub test? Who is going to shine a light on issues when people don’t have a big enough voice to get their message out?
“The research underscores the vital role that regional newspapers play in providing accurate and diverse perspectives.
“As Australians show a growing dissatisfaction with Meta, the study reaffirms the importance of maintaining a strong and independent local press to ensure accountability and transparency within communities.”
‘Unstoppable force’: Inga Peulich fondly remembered
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
Loved ones and friends fondly farewelled South Eastern Metropolitan MP and “unstoppable force” Inga Peulich in a funeral mass in Springvale on 8 August.
Ms Peulich died at 67 after a long illness, leaving a legacy including 22 years as a state politician, loyal friend and “tower of strength” for her family.
Son and former Kingston mayor Paul Peulich told of her favourite saying: “Failure is not the falling down but the staying down”.
As a girl, her family fled communist Yugoslavia when her father Drago had been “blacklisted” from working as a journalist for uncovering and reporting on state corruption.
They arrived in Australia with her family with two suitcases, no English and no money.
Born on a farm, she recalled the delight of finding ‘two cherries in a gully trap’ – which was to be the title of her memoir.
“Inga was a woman of education. Books –she had a massive library - strategy and the spoken and written word.”
She was a sought-after VCE English and Psychology teacher, who worked night shifts at the family restaurant The Last Penny in Oakleigh. She was to win an international teaching fellowship.
When she was recruited to the Liberal Party, her father commented that Inga was “too honest for politics”.
Inga served as Bentleigh MP in 1992-2002, returning to Parliament in the South East Metropolitan upper house region in 2006-‘18.
Son Paul said her “schedule was legendary”
– more than 550 meetings a year.
Strong, proud and compassionate, she had an “open-door policy” in helping whoever sought assistance, her son said.
“I saw first-hand the great impact and effectiveness of her words and more importantly her actions.”
A gifted sportsperson in her youth, she and the family forged a special bond in athletics. She would have loved to have watched the current Olympic Games, Paul said.
She had a love of country-western music and travel. In semi-retirement, she considered writing a book, studying a PhD or
returning to teaching.
“She was a tower of strength in our lives.”
Her husband Sav Peulich told the service at St Joseph’s Catholic Church that they had met at a small country fair 41 years ago.
The couple quickly fell in love, married and their journey was filled with great memories, he said.
Whether selling garments on the NSW border or fighting to win a marginal seat, there was never a dull moment.
He paid tribute to Inga’s thirst for life – she was first in the water on family holidays and striving to see all of the sights.
“You had a brilliant intellect and a heart of gold.”
Liberal colleague and ex-Moordialloc MP Geoff Leigh told of his fierce but strong friendship. They used to have many disagreements as friends – more often than they fought with their own partners.
“Politics isn’t a place where you make many friends you can trust. I know I made one friend that I could trust and that was Inga Peulich.
“It told you a lot about the quality of Inga as a person.
“Coming from the country she came from, she made me see and value how valuable free speech was. Many Australians took it for granted … up until the pandemic.”
Mr Leigh said Inga put together and trained the team of South East Liberals that defeated the Brumby Government in 2006.
“The media would often claim that it was transport issues that defeated the Brumby Government. But we all knew it was Inga putting the campaign together that resulted in our victory.”
Dianne Noulikas-Galinas joined Inga in setting up the first Liberal multicultural branch.
Ms Noulikas also spoke of Inga’s hopefulness, optimism and never failing to give up in the face of her terminal illness.
She told the service that Inga was like “family”, and “fiercely loyal”, recalling late night coffees, jokes and light-hearted ‘palm-readings’ in the Bentleigh office.
“She was the hardest working, most dedicated MP I had met, and a force to be reckoned with.
“There was no immoveable object that was a match for her unstoppable force.”
Inga Peulich, second left, at a Holi festival in Keysborough in 2018. (Rob Carew: 177801)
Country Press Association president Andrew Schreyer.
Childcare knocked back
By Ethan Benedicto
A controversial proposal to establish a childcare centre at 1A Gori Court, Narre Warren North has been denied by the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).
The City of Casey refused to grant a permit on the grounds of impacts concerning neighbourhood character, car parking provision and off-site amenity impacts from the location at the entrance to a court, or cul-de-sac.
The proposed development would have catered up to 86 children and eight staff, with the existing dwelling on the site to be demolished in place of a single-storey, 619 square metre building, as well as 18 car park spaces, a landscaped garden and acoustic fencing.
Casey Council initially refused the application which led to Gori Pty Ltd appealing the decision to VCAT; from there the tribunal corroborated Casey’s decision, assessing that the development would be incompatible with the character of Gori Court and the surrounding area, on Tuesday 6 August.
Specifically, Casey Council submitted that Gori’s proposal was “not appropriate” regarding its location within a cul-de-sac in the Low-Density Residential Zone Schedule 2 (LDRZ2).
“The childcare centre does not respect the existing pattern of development, being single dwellings on large, landscaped lots,” the council statement said.
“Landscaping and setbacks are not sufficient and the car park and fencing in the frontage of the site are foreign elements.”
The council’s statement also added that the proposal was inconsistent with the Casey Foothills Local Area Policy (clause 21.14), since the open landscaped setting is not maintained by the said proposed development.
The applicant initially contested that the site’s location was ideal due to its proximity to Ernst Wanke Road, which is a main road, therefore making it ideal for non-residential use.
They also added that the fencing for the devel-
opment along Gori Court would not “dominate the streetscapes”, since it is behind 2-metre wide garden beds therefore providing an appropriate visual buffer to “offset the built form and hard stand area of the car park”.
However, Casey Council contested this by stating that the proposed building has a substantial footprint, and that the land would in turn “have low extent of permeable surfaces” in comparison to other swellings on Gori Court.
The Tribunal, represented by Suena Byrne, was of the same mind, disagreeing that the character of Gori Court is greatly influenced by its location adjacent to Ernst Wanke Road, as well as its proximity to other non-residential uses.
“Gori Court is an idyllic, highly intact streetscape that has a sense of being an enclosed enclave,” Byrne said.
“The proposed ‘pool fencing’ along the frontage and other fencing forward of the building, together with the car park paving in the front setback, introduce elements that will be discordant in the streetscape.”
While the tribunal had no qualms with the building itself, stating that its proposed storey scale and linear form are “complementary with the residential character of the surrounding area”, issues arose with fencing and the car park spaces.
“Overall I find the proposal does not sufficiently meet the character and landscape outcomes sought for this location,” Byrne said.
“I am not persuaded that the built elements have been designed and sited in a manner that is respectful of the low-density residential character of the area.”
Regarding the site’s impact on the amenities of adjoining and nearby residential properties, the applicant stated that in terms of traffic generation, the street would not be “unreasonably affected” by traffic.
“Vehicle movements will extend only a short distance into the court, between the entrance to the subject land and the intersection with Ernst Wanke Road,” the applicant said.
Despite assisted evidence from Fernway Engineering traffic engineer, Supen Perea, with the applicant citing that Mr Perera said post-development traffic volumes would not exceed the “environmental goal” or “maximum capacity for the street”, it was not found sufficient by the tribunal.
Bryne cited previous VCAT cases, such as Graphos (Aust) Pty Ltd v Nillumbik SC [2008] VCAT 2321, where the Tribunal made comments regarding the “special character” and low traffic environment provided by cul-de-sacs and the “need to be sensitive about proposals that might interrupt” said traffic state.
“Residents enjoy a higher level of amenity that other local streets and main road locations given the usually smaller number of dwellings and an absence of through traffic,” Byrne said.
“I find the estimated post-development traffic increases in Gori Court will have a detrimental impact on the amenity of residents in the court, even though the post-traffic volumes will not exceed the environmental or engineering capacity of the local road network.
“We would add that courts and cul-de-sacs can develop a sense of community that is often highly valued by residents.”
Looking at the wider community impact, the proposal aimed to service a local population with the applicant stating that the subject land is an “appropriate location” for the childcare centre.
The applicant also added that it is supported “from a policy perspective” considering its interface with a busy main road where other nonresidential uses are present.
In addition, they also stated that the proposed development does not “compromise the role and function of centres within the activity centre network”.
“Childcare centres are commonplace in residential areas, and there are no nearby activity centres presently in operation,” the applicant said.
They also said that the subject land is complementary with the other nearby non-residential uses surrounding Ernst Wanke Road, such as Bupa Aged Care Berwick, Mary MacKillop Pri-
mary School, Kingdom Hall and more.
However, Casey Council’s testament was that the subject land does not “enjoy policy support”, since there would be a concentration of nonresidential uses – with the primary school – that would “detract from the primary residential function of the area”.
Casey also added that the subject land is not supported by clause 22.02-3, which has nonresidential uses located along arterial or collector roads and not in cul-de-sacs.
“The subject land does not abut Ernst Wanke Road, noting the 6.05 metre-wide reserve that abuts the southern boundary is not a road on the certificate of title for the subject land, separating it from the road reserve,” the council stated.
Byrne also added that while conditions under LDRZ2 was satisfied by the proposed site, the “childcare centre is not located so as to maximise access by public transport and safe walking and cycling routes”.
While the site is adjacent to a bus stop, it only services a single bus route “with only two to three services each peak hour”, in addition to the site being remote from the nearest train station.
The applicant also relied on a demand analysis by Ubris, which stated tight supply and demand conditions in the local market of childcare centres, as well as a “shortfall” of long daycare places in Narre Warren North.
Casey Council on the other hand contested the demand analysis by stating that Urbis had not “demonstrated that the childcare centre will service the needs of the local community”.
Furthermore, Byrne said that while the demand assessment indicates the possibility of the need for a long-day childcare in five years, “this does not overcome the locational issues I have recorded”.
Ultimately, a combination of non-compliance with the area’s character, as well as unclear specifications regarding servicing local communities and the unique qualities played by cul-de-sacs were the main causes of the denial of a permit.
Noble Park SC leaps to state volleyball triumph
A volleyball team from Noble Park Secondary College has been crowned as state champions in what was described as a triumph of teamwork and talent.
The Year 11 players were unbeaten in claiming the Victoria Cup in the three-day All Schools Volleyball Cup on Friday 26 July.
In the process, Noble Park prevailed over fancied rivals such as Melbourne High and Kew High School.
“Most of the competition included the top volleyball schools in the state, all with established volleyball programs and professional coaches,” a college spokesperson said.
“This has been an incredible effort and an outstanding display of teamwork and natural talent.”
The Noble Park players had been promoted to Division 1 for the first time, after winning ev-
ery set in the Victorian One-Day School Cup at Division 2.
Meanwhile, the team is setting itself to be among the best of the Year 12 outfits in Victoria next year.
Coach Sean Dickson with the champion volleyball team from Noble Park Secondary College. (Stewart Chambers: 422982)
Volleyball captain Smith Lim. (Stewart Chambers: 422982)
Minister visits new site
St Paul’s Anglican Grammar school were delighted to welcome The Hon. Harriet Shing MP, Member for Eastern Victoria, to view the progress of their new Drouin Campus on Friday 2 August.
Minister Shing met with the Principal of St Paul’s, Cameron Herbert, Head of School Rowan van Raay and Business Manager Leah Young to tour the beautiful 36-acre site.
Responding to population growth and increased demand for quality independent education across the region, the new Early Learning Centre and Primary School will open for the commencement of the 2025 school year. The school was delighted to demonstrate how the $2M contribution from the Victorian Schools Building Authority, Department of Education, has assisted with the construction of the Early Learning Centre. Roofing has recently been completed on the four-classroom Early Learning Centre and construction on the Prep-Year 2 facilities is progressing well. Spacious, light-filled classrooms are a key feature of the build, with outdoor play spaces designed to integrate with the expansive natural environment to foster outdoor exploration and promote wellbeing.
Minister Shing timed her visit perfectly to see the new basketball court, just poured this week, which will form part of the vibrant outdoor play and recreational spaces that will be greatly appreciated by students and the wider community.
St Paul’s Drouin Campus is now taking enrolments for Kindergarten to Year 2 and looks forward to welcoming students for the first day of school in 2025.
How to improve confidence in business estimation
In the 1950s, the United States Navy was engaged to project manage the building of the Polaris nuclear submarine. Back then, the idea of launching an inter-continental ballistic missile from a sea-going vessel was seen as revolutionary and indeed it was regarded as one of the most complex engineering projects ever undertaken up to that time.
With little in the way of predecessors to this kind of project, there was not much to go on to determine how long it would take to build and how much it would cost, but of course both these pieces of information are essential to being able to determine feasibility of the project itself. So as part of their management process, the Navy developed a comprehensive project management system known as ‘PERT’ which stands for the Program Evaluation and Review Technique.
The PERT technique can be applied to any sort of project and indeed any type of problem where there is a high degree of uncertainty but some kind of realistic estimate needs to be derived. What many businesses usually do in such a situation is come up with a broad estimate and then add a contingency (also known as a “fudge factor”) to allow for the fact that
they may well have missed something. The problem with this approach is that this is hard to defend and if the contingency is too big, you may simply become commercially unviable and if too small, the slightest overrun may push you into negative territory and you can end up losing money and/or running over time.
The PERT approach to estimation does the following: first you break down the project, activity or element into the discrete components that make it up and then for each discrete component, you create three separate estimates:
· The best-case scenario (optimistic estimate –E(O))
· The worst-case scenario (pessimistic estimate –E(P))
· The most likely scenario (expected estimate –E(M))
From these three estimates, a ‘Planning Estimate’ can be derived using the formula:
· Planning Estimate = { E(O) + (4 x E(M)) + E(P) } / 6
In effect, this produces what’s known as a ‘weighted estimate’ so the best-case and worst-case estimates are factored in, but not completely. So, for example, suppose we have the following estimates for a particular task:
· Best-case estimate = 10 days
· Expected estimate = 15 days
· Worst-case estimate = 38 days
· Then the Planning Estimate = ( 10 + (4 x 15) + 38 ) / 6 = 108 /6 = 18 days.
You can see that this has affected our ‘expected estimate’ by increasing it by a factor of 3 days, but far better than planning on 10 or 38 days!
This technique is usually used to calculate timeframes, but it can also be used in financial forecasts or any other application where there is uncertainty. For example, if you want to estimate how much revenue you could expect from a specific customer over a given period, you can estimate best-case, worst-case and expected sales figures and then use the Planning Estimate formula above to derive a forecast sales figure for that period. Happy estimating!
Ian Ash ACC, AInstIB Managing Director OrgMent Business
Harriet Shing, Cameron Herbert, Rowan van Raay and Leah Young in front of the new basketball court.
Minister for Water, Regional Development, and Equality, Harriet Shing with Principal Cameron Herbert, Head of School Rowan van Raay and Business Manager Leah Young at the St Paul’s Drouin enrolment office.
The new ELC building nestled into the north facing slope.
Little India set for revamp
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
A milestone has been reached towards a $600 million redevelopment of the Little India precinct in Dandenong.
The State Government has given the green light to a Planning Scheme Amendment for the ambitious plan of 470 new homes as well as new apartment, retail and office towers and 2500 square-metres of community spaces.
The proposed first stage in the Foster Street precinct includes homes, a supermarket and a food market hall.
The project, which is expected to support about 2600 construction jobs, was first touted in 2020.
The redevelopment was expected to occur at seven stages around Foster Street, bounded by Settlers Square, Dandenong train station, Halpin Way, Thomas Street and Cheltenham Road.
Capital Alliance chief executive Mohan Du said the PSA approval was an “important milestone in the delivery of this generational masterplan vision”.
The project would transform central Dandenong into “Melbourne’s second capital city”, Du said.
Private developer Capital Alliance released a master plan for community engagement in 2022.
It included a plan to relocate Little India retailers to a new laneway between Halpin Way and Foster Street, as well as a 29-storey hotel and conference centre, 29-storey office tower and an outdoor plaza on the corner of Foster Street and Cheltenham Road.
An urban brewery entertainment district and supermarket was to be the last stage constructed from 2038.
A community centre near Settlers Square, and a school at the corner of Mason and Foster Street was also proposed.
The government’s developer arm Develop-
ment Victoria will now partner with Capital Alliance on a development plan, which is subject to final approval.
Greater Dandenong Council has no planning authority over the project. It reported that after the development plan, Capital Alliance will submit planning applications to the Planning Minister for each stage of development.
$100,000 boost for
three early learning centres
Three early-learning centres in Dandenong and Hallam have shared in more than $100,000 federal funding.
Dandenong CommunityOSH and Rosewood Downs CommunityOSH each received $10,250 from the Community Child Care Fund: Disadvantaged and Vulnerable Communities program.
Hallam Community Learning Centre was granted $92,000.
Bruce MP Julian Hill said HCLC was “absolutely thrilled” as the funding will support mothers learning English, as well as local workers, with short-term childcare.
“Services like these are essential in multicultural communities like ours, allowing
parents extra flexibility while also benefiting children’s early development.
“This funding follows the Government’s announcement of a 15 per cent pay increase for early childhood educators, contingent on service providers not lifting their fees more than 4.4 per cent over the next 12 months.
“I am really proud to be part of a good Government that is getting wages moving for workers, while helping families with the cost of living.”
The funding program targets services in disadvantaged communities to help them stay open and increase the numbers accessing early childhood education and care.
The project renews Sites 11 to 15 as part of the State Government’s 18-years-and-growing Revitalising Central Dandenong program.
The Government says RCD is expected to attract $1.2 billion in private investment and sustain up to 500 jobs.
“Dandenong is booming,” Development Victoria Minister Colin Brooks said.
“And we’re ensuring more homes and jobs are created closer to public services, so local families can access everything they need, close to where they live.”
Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams said “we’re turning this area into a vibrant new neighbourhood with hundreds more homes and jobs, right on top of a dining and entertainment precinct”.
Bruce MP Julian Hill with mothers learning English at Hallam Community Learning Centre. (Supplied)
Residential and retail buildings off Halpin Way. Out back are the hotel, office and residential towers south of Foster Street. (Supplied)
HONORING DECADES OF DEDICATION: A LEGACY IN OUR COMMUNITY
A Legacy of Timber: The Van Steensel Family Story
In 1965, Jan Van Steensel laid the foundations of what would become a hallmark of quality and community in Officer and Grantville—Van Steensel Timbers Pty Ltd. What began as a modest venture selling recycled timber has, over the course of nearly six decades, blossomed into a thriving family business, now helmed by the third generation of Van Steensels.
Jan’s vision was simple yet profound: to build a business rooted in family values and a commitment to excellence. These principles have guided the company through its evolution from a small timber retailer to a comprehensive supplier of building materials and services. The success of the Officer store in the early years led Jan and his wife Freda to expand their operations, opening a second location in Grantville in 1990. Today, the legacy of hard work and dedication lives on through their four sons—Peter, David, Bruce, and Stephen—who manage the day-to-day operations with the same passion that their father instilled in them.
At the Officer location, Peter and David ensure that every customer receives personalised service, whether they are seasoned builders or weekend DIY enthusiasts. Meanwhile, Bruce and Stephen uphold the same standards at the Grantville store, fostering a deep connection with the local community. This connection is not just a business strategy; it’s the very ethos of Van Steensel Timbers. For the Van Steensel family, success is measured not just by sales, but by the relationships they’ve nurtured over the years.
As the company has grown, so too has its product range. Today, Van Steensel Timbers offers an extensive selection of timber, hardware, and building materials, catering to a wide array of needs. From structural pine framing to hardwood flooring, decking, and specialised wood machining services, the stores are well-equipped to meet the demands of both commercial and residential projects. Their ability to provide customised solutions, such as replicating specific architraves or profiles, sets them apart from larger chain stores. It’s this versatility, coupled with a deep knowledge of the industry, that has earned the loyalty of customers for generations.
One of the company’s proudest achievements is the continuity of its customer base. Shaara Horin, Jan’s step-granddaughter and the company’s administration officer, speaks fondly of the family’s enduring relationships with clients. “Our first customer still buys from us today,” she says, highlighting the trust and loyalty that Van Steensel Timbers has cultivated over the years. This ongoing commitment to customer satisfaction is a key reason why the business continues to thrive, even in the face of competition from major hardware chains.
In an era where digital transformation is essential for business growth, the Van Steensel family is not resting on its laurels. The third generation of Van Steensels is working diligently to bring the company into the digital age, with a new product portal set to launch on their website. Yet, despite these modern advancements, the family remains deeply committed to preserving the core values that have been their hallmark since day one. The company’s logo, which has become synonymous with quality and reliability in the community, remains unchanged—a symbol of their dedication to tradition in a rapidly changing world.
For nearly 60 years, Van Steensel Timbers has been more than just a business; it’s been a part of the fabric of the Officer and Grantville communities. As they look to the future, the Van Steensel family remains steadfast in their commitment to providing quality products, expert advice, and personalised service. It’s a legacy that Jan Van Steensel would undoubtedly be proud of, and one that continues to flourish under the careful stewardship of his descendants.
Van Steensel Timbers is located at 421 Princes Highway, Officer, and at the corner of Bass Highway and Glen Forbes Road, Grantville. To learn more, visit www.vansteenseltimbers.com.au or find them on Facebook.
Jan Van Steensel with one of the original trucks.
Jan Van Steensel, original business owner and father to Peter, David, Bruce and Stephen Van Steensel
Peter and David Van Steensel mid 1980’s laoding a truck at Van Steensel Timbers.
Shaara Horin (Accounts and Admin), Sarina Van Steensel (Office Manager), Peter Van Steensel (Director), Nathan Van Steensel (Deliveries and Yard Operations and son to David), David Van Steensel (Director) Louise Van Steensel (wife to Bruce), Sue (wife to David), Freda Van Steensel (original business owner and wife to Jan Van Steensel)
Shaara Horin (Accounts and Admin), Peter Van Steensel (Director, Andy Grant (Quoting and Sales), Jolanda (Admin Officer and Inventory Management)
Freda and Jan Van Steensel
Berwick Bridge Club
Enjoy playing cards and looking for some exercise for your brain that is both fun and challenging?
Berwick Bridge Club is looking for new members to join two free eight-week beginner’s courses at Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House on Friday 30 August from 10am to noon and the second on Monday 2 September from 7pm to 9pm.
• To reserve your place, phone Maree on 9702 2348.
Stories from ASIO
The Narre Warren and District Family History Group is hosting a presentation from National Archives of Australia state manager of Victoria Patrick Ferry on a tale straight from ASIO’s archives.
With an entry fee of $5 and set to kick off at 2pm on Saturday 17 August at the Lorraine Taylor Research Room at 110 High Street in Berwick, the presentation will detail covert operations and concealed identities before afternoon tea and the group’s AGM.
• For more information, contact group president Jane Rivett-Carnac on president@nwfhg.org.au or 0412 084 671.
Tynong Car Show and Market
Come and show off your car or bike at the Tynong Car Show on Saturday 14 September. Trophies, raffles, prizes, food vans and more. Chat with Cardinia Council mayor Jack Kowarzik, who will be presenting trophies to the winners.
Browse the wide range of stalls or grab a coffee and a bite to eat.
Proudly sponsored by local businesses and Shannons Insurance.
Gold coin donation entry for visitors.
• For more information, phone or 5629 2500 or register your vehicle now via forms.office.com/r/ t6tU0dEQzX?origin=lprLink
Bunyip Quilt Show
The Friends of Hillview Quilt Show is returning for another year of impressive displays.
Held at the Bunyip Hall at 38 Main Street, the displays will be open from 9am to 3.30pm on Saturday 17 August and 9am to 2.30pm on Sunday 18 August, with entries open on Friday 16 August.
Proudly supported by Bunyip Patchwork and Craft.
U3A Casey
Did you know that U3A Casey now has 471 members and operates out of multiple venues across the Casey area?
It offers 65 different classes, ranging from exercise/movement/dance groups to literature, crafts, music, discussion groups and more.
Membership from July to December is $30 with no further costs.
• If you want to keep both your mind and body active after retirement, then visit u3acasey.org.au
Yoga and meditation
Run by Heartfulness Yoga and Meditation, the sessions are conducted in a community environment to promote wellness.
Heartfulness is a simple and subtle practice of meditation which aims to connect all participants with the light and love in their hearts.
• All are welcome to come and experience yoga and meditation on Sundays at Bunjil Place starting from 8.30am.
No previous experience is required.
Bring your own yoga mat.
Gold coin donation welcome.
Casey Cardinia Life Activities Club
Are you new newly retired, or new to the area, or just wanting to enjoy your freedom as a senior or expand your social life?
Casey Cardinia Life Activities Club can offer you
Vietnam Veterans Day
The Vietnam Veterans Motorcycle Club Gippsland Chapter is hosting a Vietnam Veterans Day service at the Longwarry North Public Hall at 199 Princes Way, Longwarry North on Sunday 18 August.
Running from 2pm, all are welcome to lay a wreath or flowers as part of the service.
• For more information, contact secretary@ vvmcvic.com
stimulating activities and friendship.
The club hosts weekly social activities with dance to low-key in-line dancing if you want to tap your feet, great music, a chat, then afternoon tea.
Day, short and long trips away via coach, a weekly morning coffee club, monthly Saturday country pub lunches, monthly Tuesday dine-outs, a weekly walking group, a weekly table tennis group, seasonal daytime musical theatre outings, entertainment function days and more.
Anyone interested can visit on Thursdays at 2pm for socialising and low-key dancing at Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House at 21A Bemersyde Drive or join the club for a coffee and a chat every Wednesday from 10am at the new François cafe in front of Myer in Fountain Gate.
• For more information, contact enquiry officer Gloria on 0468 363 616.
Cardinia Diabetic Awareness Group
The group meets on the second Wednesday of each month at the Pakenham Uniting Church meeting room at 10am.
The group would love to see people who have diabetes or live with someone who has diabetes attend or join.
The meeting consists of a short meeting and then a guest speaker dealing with diabetes.
• For more information, contact Lyn on 0149
116 972 or lestep12@people.net.au
BADFolk Club
Berwick and District Folk Club has been meeting at the Old Cheese Factory in Berwick for the past 22 years.
The club meets on the third Friday of each month and every month features a different genre of music.
The club also welcomes spot acts.
Doors now open from 6.30pm and the music runs from 7pm to 10pm, no bookings required, entry $15.
The kitchen sells sweet and savoury snack food and a variety of drinks – tea, coffee, wine, beer, soft drinks.
• For more information, visit badfolkclub.org or contact Edward on 0418 535 264.
Scrabble Club
Berwick Activities Club is hosting a Scrabble Club every Friday from 1pm to 3.30pm.
It will be both competitive and social on a one-toone basis.
Come along to learn how to play or improve your game.
Word lists and more will be available to increase your skills.
• Contact David on 0433 566 456.
New Vogue dancing
If you love dancing and would like to learn New Vogue, Berwick Activities Club is offering a short seven-week course for beginners.
The course is held over one-hour classes each Friday, commencing on Friday 5 July at 7pm in the Timbarra Community Centre.
Dancing is a great way to make new friends and at the completion of the course you may join the weekly dance held on Thursday evenings. Booking is essential as numbers are limited.
• For more information, contact Bruce on 0447 554 475.
Line dancing
The Berwick Senior Citizens Centre is hosting line dancing sessions from 10am to noon every Tuesday at 112 High Street in Berwick.
First session is free, with a small fee for future classes.
• Morning tea or coffee included.
THE ULTIMATE RACE WEEKEND PACKAGE
(Ljubica Vrankovic: 403513)
Palpable relief for renters
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
A massive turnout of 400 people sought rent and debt relief at the latest Bring Your Bills event in Dandenong.
South East Community Links hosted 25 providers, its largest array ever, including telcos, the ‘Big 4’ banks, energy and water companies, state and federal agencies, legal aid, tenancy services and councils.
For the first time, SECL featured its Private Renter Support Program at the 9 August event at Dandenong Civic Centre.
The outreach program signed up 40 rentstressed tenants who were at high risk of losing their housing. They will be offered intensive casework by SECL.
Clients can be supported in meeting rent arrears, paying a bond or facing a crushing rent rise.
There’s also support in negotiating with banks if they’re struggling to pay back mortgages, credit card debts and loans, as well as with utility companies.
“We make sure their rights are supported and being adhered to, as well as whatever else is causing financial stress,” SECL chief executive Peter McNamara said.
Visitors cited rental and mortgage stress as their primary debt worry, followed by energy costs as well as fine debts.
About 70 per cent of attendees were renting,
30 per cent had a home mortgage.
“Housing stress is massive. More and more people are working second and third jobs to stay in their mortgage and rental,” McNamara said.
“There’s been a 78 per cent increase in people who have a mortgage approaching us for emergency relief, like food or money to pay for petrol.”
Bring Your Bills also broadened its interpreter services to cover 10 different languages. This was a crucial initiative to break down language barriers, Mr McNamara said.
“In CALD communities, sometimes there’s no understanding of hardship policies (at banks and other billers).
“People in hardship are ashamed and intimidated from speaking to their bank. They fear that it will affect their credit rating.
“We’re trying to normalize hardship policies, to say it’s OK and there’s support out there.”
In the 12 months before the latest Bring Your Bills, 1000 residents have resolved $511,000 in debts and gained 218 grants and concessions on their bills.
Mr McNamara said the SECL team drew satisfaction from bringing palpable relief.
“People were walking away smiling and relieved. You just see the relief on their face.
“We get inspired by the resilience of the community and to see them walk away having made a material difference in their circumstances.”
SECL volunteer and multilingual interpreter Yasin Zuki was on hand for language support. (Stewart Chambers: 424081)
AGL’s stall attracted a lot of enquiries. (424081)
SECL’s housing consultants Bridgid and Caitlin were on hand to help relieve mortgage and rent stress. (424081)
SECL’s housing consultants Azar and Bakhita. (424081)
Amanda and Melanie from energy provider AGL. (424081)
Fox and Veronica from Fines Victoria. (424081)
SECL’s housing consultants Bridgid and Caitlin. (424081)
Youth women on the verge
By Jonty Ralphsmith
The grand final achievement for Pakenham’s Big V Youth Women is an ode to the great faith the club has in the program.
Within a year the Warriors have gone from not winning a final to progressing all the way to the grand final.
Positively, the core of the squad will remain eligible for Youth League for multiple years, positioning them well to contend in the promotion tournament in February.
With the senior women’s program winning a final in 2024, the female pathway is sustaining itself in the long term.
“When I first started here, we were in Division 2 and I would never have even dreamt of possibly playing youth champ for Pakenham but it’s been so good with the coaches and facilities,” co-captain Tyla Scorah said.
“The coaches’ knowledge of the game has helped us all become better basketballers.
“I wouldn’t be the confident shooter I am without them backing our ability and being happy for you to make mistakes.”
Rebounding star Chloe Zielinski, the powerful Stella O’Loughlin and the strong Hayley Letts have all grown significantly, with Rhiannon Gallagher showing the clear pathway that exists for those players into the women’s team.
Isabella McEwan, Amber Bareira and Shanelle
Pakenham is keen for grand final glory, with its youth men’s and women’s program to play for a ‘chip. (Stewart Chambers: 424434).
Kingston are all less experienced but have also played crucial minutes, particularly late in the regular season when injuries plagued the Warriors.
Saturday’s grand final at McKinnon will be a clash of the two pacesetters all season.
The teams have both had a comfortable win against each other in the home and away season, with Scorah and Gallagher missing the Warriors’ loss.
“We have a pretty young team and I feel like by the end of the season, we’ve all matured as individual players,” Scorah said.
“We know what shots to take, when to work hard and our decision-making is a lot better –we’re all just one big unit now which is great.”
The Warriors have been hard to match up against for most of the season, but had a wobble late in the regular season.
Three of their six losses for the season came
in the last four games – due to a combination of unavailability and evolution of the game plan to ensure it would hold up under finals pressure.
“We’ve kept most of the same concepts but our offensive systems have changed up here and there,” co-captain Chelsea Schreuder said.
“I feel like we flow into offence a lot better and know where people are now – we’ve gotten good at reading and reacting.”
Contrastingly, McKinnon have been on a tear and are peaking at the right time of the season, which will make for a captivating match-up.
“No matter what happens, we’ll come in as a united front and play Pakenham Warriors basketball,” Schreuder said.
“If that’s enough, we’ll get the chip.”
The Youth Women will face McKinnon at GESAC from 4pm on Saturday.
Last two times they’ve met: Pakenham d McKinnon 80-64, McKinnon d Pakenham 87-50
Preliminary finals: Pakenham d Albury Wodonga Bandits 64-45, McKinnon d Geelong United 89-65
Key players: Stella O’Loughlin (15 points, seven rebounds, three assists), Chelsea Schreuder (nine rebounds, six assists, two steals), Chloe Zielinski (12 points, 11 rebounds)
Opponents to watch: Daisy Nousis (15 points, seven rebounds, three assists), Romy Price (13 points, one block).
Warriors young guns ready for basketball’s biggest stage
By Jonty Ralphsmith
Pakenham will enter the Youth League Two Men’s grand final at Cardinia Life on Saturday at 7.30pm with the weight of expectation.
The Warriors are undefeated throughout 2024 and were commanding against West Gate two weeks ago, winning 90-68.
The competition frontrunners all season, Pakenham will be aware of the significance of locking in for one final run, having perennially contended in recent years.
“I feel like there’s always going to be expectation when you go through a season undefeated,” co-captain Luke Rawiri said.
“People around the club are backing you but we really enjoy it.
“(Coach Braden Venning) always points out that we’re getting everyone’s best so we have to beat everyone’s best which gives us a lot of confidence.”
The success has been built on a culture of sacrifice and unity.
“There’s no egos in the team,” Venning said.
“They work for each other, they focus on the little things and it’s really pleasing.
“Now it’s about locking in for one more Saturday and singing the song one more time.”
Pakenham will be undersized compared
youth men will be in action from 7.30pm on Saturday at Cardinia Life. From left: Jackson Grey, Cooper Lanting, Jarred Small, Aaron Small and Luke Rawiri. (Stewart Chambers: 424434).
to West Gate but it’s a challenge they regularly overcome by putting pace on the ball and capitalising in transition.
Winning a different way in the preliminary final against Sunbury, though, will instil Pakenham with great confidence.
“We know they’re big and will try and dominate the glass so we will make a consistent effort to keep them off the offensive glass,” Venning said.
“They’ll have a couple of things up their sleeves so we’ll watch some game tape and see
where we can expose them and where we need to stop them.
“It’s about making them uncomfortable for as close to 40 minutes as we can.”
Sunbury was kept to just two offensive rebounds for the first three quarters despite possessing Dylan Cheyne, one of the biggest players in the league and making it a contested and physical game.
Co-captains Rawiri, Jackson Grey and defensive player of the year candidate Aaron Small were all effective in locking down, with the coach highlighting weekly training sessions with the senior men – which compete in the championship division – as critical in their development.
“Scrimmaging against the bigger, faster more athletic guys pays big dividends particularly when we come up against bigger teams,” Venning said.
“If you can do that it serves us well and that’s the benefit of treating the youth and men’s programs together – it works well for us and prepares us for anything that comes our way.”
West Gate challenged Pakenham for one quarter in the qualifying final before the Warriors broke away.
James Avgerinos got hold of Pakenham early and is the player to stop, while Sascha Alexeeff
will look to exploit his size advantage and Kurt Butler is dangerous off the glass.
“We’ve realised throughout the season that teams can’t stay with us for a full four quarters, so in the last two minutes we always have that confidence down the stretch that we can pull away,” Grey said.
Pakenham’s strength all season has lay in its spread, with the Warriors proving impossible to scout.
Nullifying an individual leaves another player open and Pakenham’s ability to identify and exploit that space, and individuals executing has made them an unstoppable force.
Key players: Kaleb Beveridge (14 points, eight rebounds), Aaron Small (12 points, three assists, two steals), Jarred Small (12 points, 42 per cent 3P%), Cooper Lanting (Eight points, 55 per cent 3P%) Opponents to stop: James Avgerinos (16 points, five rebounds), Kurt Butler (10 points, 11 rebounds, four assists), Sascha Alexeeff (nine points, eight rebounds), Troy Hezel (12 points, seven rebounds).
Last two times they’ve played: Pakenham d West Gate 90-68, Pakenham d West Gate 76-64
Preliminary finals: Pakenham d Sunbury 7262, West Gate d Whittlesea 75-65
Outer East showpiece heads back to Rob Porter Reserve
By Marcus Uhe
Starling Road appears the venue of choice for Outer East Football Netball officials having been selected to host the biggest day of the competition’s year once again on Saturday 21 September.
Premier Division Football and Netball deciders, as well as Under 19s football and East junior netball divisions will be held at Officer for the second consecutive season, after the venue hosted the 2023 decider on a stunning spring day 11 months ago.
Fittingly, it will be the first grand final since the passing of Robert Porter OAM, whom the ground was named after in a fitting ceremony earlier in the month.
Six days earlier it will also host the preliminary finals on Sunday 15 September, giving the venue a ‘test run’ before the showpiece occasion.
Starling Road is a venue that carries fond memories for Narre Warren’s netballers after winning six of the eight grand finals on offer last season, including all four senior grades, but the
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with
and finding – blood.
But as the season sits after 16 weeks, the Magpies are in a perfect position to vanquish those bad memories and flip the script, leaving the Outer East competition with a premiership to remember.
Grand final day at Officer will be the culmination of a four-week finals series and whittle six teams down to the final two over the course of five games. The Outer East’s south east contingent will be hitting the roads in the prior two weeks however, with trips to Healesville, Woori Yallock and Yarra Glen slated for the opening two rounds of the
Pakenham’s
Lions absorb the pressure
By David Nagel
Pakenham is just one win away from its first-ever women’s senior premiership after the Lions defeated Healesville by 19 points in the Outer East Women’s Division One second semi-final at Seville on Saturday.
The Lions absorbed a super-strong start from the Bloods to record a 6.5(41) to 3.4(22) victory and earn direct entry into the grand final at the Kilsyth Centre of Excellence on Sunday 25 August.
Healesville clearly had the better of the opening exchanges with Pakenham’s backline forced to work overtime to limit the scoreboard damage.
Defenders Emily Devine, Aliya Daniel, Annalise Ryan, Abbey McKenzie, Ash Perkins and Jayda Tannahill kept the Lions in the hunt in the first term, while the defensive running of wingers Bonnie Williams and Matilda Argoon was also important structurally.
The Lions gradually turned the tide in the latter stages of the first term, with a quick-thinking handball from Courtney Karayannis allowing Ava Deszcz to kick the opening goal – against the run of play.
Ruck Sarah Ventura and midfielders Courtney Stephens, Kate Green and Bianca Moody then settled into their work, and when centre-half-forward Chloe Nagel found Aiesha Kolaritsch in the goalsquare, the Lions led 2.1 to 0.1 at the first change.
Healesville then received well-deserved reward for its efforts at the start of the second term with key-forward Megan Schelfhout slotting a sixpointer just 30 seconds into the quarter.
The dangerous Kolaritsch answered for the Lions before Amy Frazzetto then cut the margin back to six points with the last kick of the first half.
The third term – known as the premiership quarter – was when the Lions put their stamp on proceedings.
Pakenham wasted three opportunities in front of goal before Moody extended the lead to 15 points with a cracking goal on the run.
And when Kolaritsch kicked her third for the match - her 46th for the season – the Lions led by 21 points at the final change.
Scarlett Potter gave the Bloods’ supporters some hope, kicking the opening goal of the final term after three minutes of play, before the classy Deszcz put the issue beyond doubt with four minutes left on the clock.
Ventura was magnificent for the Lions in the ruck, showing great courage to bounce back sev-
eral times from big hits, while the run-and-carry of Williams, Perkins, Moody and Argoon gave the Lions a boost out wide.
Schelfhout was terrific for the Bloods from her key-forward post, while Dannielle Jones was typically tough at the contest.
The ruck battle between Ventura and Paula Pavic was the key contest of the match with both players giving their teams drive away from the stoppages.
While the Lions now get to rest their aching legs with a week off; Healesville will need to back up in this Saturday’s preliminary final against UpweyTecoma after the Tigers ended the back-to-back
hopes of reigning-premier Olinda Ferny Creek in the first semi-final on oval two.
The Tigers converted their only scoring shot in the first quarter, leading by four points at the first break, before kicking two goals to one in the second term to take an 11-point lead at half time.
The Tigers then kicked 1.5 to no score in the third term to lead by 22 points with a quarter left to play.
Olinda Ferny Creek coach Simon Gilson got a response from his team in the final term, but a 2.0 to 1.1 last quarter was not enough to rein in the deficit.
Alex Bantock, Jess Occhipinti, Tegan Philp, Da-
kota Roach and Bec Thompson all kicked singles in the 5.7(37) to 3.2(20) victory, while Corinna White, Ash O’Halloran and Tahlia Sheehan were influential figures around the ground.
Maddy Collins, Lily Carlin, Ruby Gilson and Claire Hyett gave their all for Olinda Ferny Creek, who put up a brave defence of its premiership.
Healesville and Upwey-Tecoma will meet in the preliminary final at Healesville at 12.20pm this Saturday.
InDivisionTwo,Monbulkhasprogressedtothe grand final with a controversial 4.3(27) to 3.5(23) second semi-final victory over Woori Yallock.
With no power running to the time-keepers box at Seville, an air-horn was used as a siren.
At quarter-time the horn was blown several times in short bursts, with umpires not recognising the sounds as a siren.
Play continued on for several seconds after the allotted 17 minutes of play, in which time Monbulk kicked a goal; which proved absolutely crucial in its four-point victory.
But the Hawks definitely deserve their grand final shot, coming from four-points adrift at the final change to secure a memorable victory.
Laura Gillard, Kathryn Gow, Scarlett Henderson and Jennifer Pauw all snagged goals for the winners, while Shania Turner, Yanessa HancockWolfe and Madeline Caarels were among their better players.
Despitetheloss,WooriYallockstarsSkyWilson, Keren Wakefield, India James and Adele Ormsby will take good form into this week’s preliminary final against Warburton-Wesburn.
The combine proved far too strong for Officer, ending the Kangaroos season with an impressive 8.6(54) to 3.1(19) triumph.
This one was effectively over at quarter time with Warburton-Wesburn kicking 4.1 to no score in the opening term.
Tamika Ferguson booted four, and Madi Ward two for the winners, while Lilian Pagels, Emerson Woods and Sally McIntosh played key roles in the victory.
Officer did well to play finals this year - sneaking its way in during the final round - with Zoe Luxford, Ella Jackson, Lauren Mercovich and Ava Cipriani showcasing their talents on the day.
Woori Yallock and Warburton-Wesburn kick off proceedings this Saturday, playing in the Division Two preliminary final at Healesville at 10.35am.
Magpies too good while Lions and Kangas bank points
By Marcus Uhe
The Outer East Football Netball A Grade premiership race will once again run through Narre Warren after the Magpies secured the minor premiership for the second consecutive year on Saturday afternoon.
With two games remaining in the home and away season, Narre Warren has an unassailable 10-point lead at the top of the table, on the back of a 57-47 victory over Monbulk at home in round 16.
Quick balls into Grace Ioelu fuelled a formidable start for the Magpies who doubled Monbulk’s score at the first break to lead 18-9
On the back on tenacious defence from Gabrielle Dwyer, Abbey Barrientos and Julia Kaitani, the Magpies forced turnovers in the Hawks’ front half that led to easy scoring opportunities at the other end of the court.
Such was the threat of Ioelu that Monbulk chose to double-team her at stages under the net in an effort to deny her receiving the ball.
Monbulk fought back to close the gap to six goals at half time, but the Magpies got back to their brilliant best in the third term that sealed the minor premiership.
They opened the quarter with five of the first six goals and closed with four of the final six to outscore the Hawks 18-12.
Monbulk won the final quarter but was too far back to alter the outcome of the contest.
Beyond quarter time, Monbulk matched it with the top side, outscored by just a single goal in the prevailing three quarters in an effort that will boost the Hawks confidence ahead of September.
Peri Reid was held to just 17 goals by the swarming Magpies defence as her counterpart Ioelu scored 40 at the other end of the court.
Elsewhere, Emerald’s 23-goal win over Upwey Tecoma shut the door on any potential gatecrasher’s to the A-Grade finals party, as its lead over seventh place extended to 12 points.
It secures a finals berth for the Bombers, a feat to be applauded following promotion from Division One the previous season.
Emerald was slow out of the blocks and trailed by as many as eight goals during the
opening quarter but found its groove in the second to run away with a comfortable victory.
From a five-goal deficit at quarter time, the match swung on the back of an 18-9 second quarter in the Bombers’ favour.
They took the lead at 22-23 and closed the quarter with eight of the final 11 goals to lead by four goals at the half.
After the long break, Emerald flexed its muscle with a 41-22 half to remind not only the competition, but themselves, of what their best looks like.
58 goals from Kaylah Loulanting led the Bombers’ charge, overtaking Emmalia Blake as the competition’s leading scorer.
Kim Ryan, meanwhile, added a spark off the Emerald bench in just her fourth game of the season, and first since round 13.
Pakenham showed no mercy in a 56-goal hammering of a struggling Olinda Ferny Creek outfit, piling on 87 goals in a frightening display.
It’s a fourth consecutive win for the Lions and comes at crucial time ahead of a seasondefining battle with Monbulk next week.
Such was their dominance that the lowestscoring quarter of the afternoon netted 19 goals – the rest garnered 20, 24 and 24, respectively.
The goals were shared between Kelly Cousins, Charlotte Hudolin (28 each) and Rose Laidlaw (30), while Eliza Molino added cream to the top of a priming cake, playing her fifth game of the season as she reintegrates herself back into the side ahead of the finals.
ROC found a much-needed scoring punch in notching its second highest team score for the campaign in a 71-42 defeat of Gembrook Cockatoo, thanks to a combined 68 goals from Kaelah (28) and Isabella O’Shanassy (40).
Important wins to Wandin over Berwick Springs and Mt Evelyn over Woori Yallock sustained the congestion in the top six, with the Rovers maintaining second place on the table and Wandin fourth.
With two points separating second and fourth, all is building to a massive final round when Mt Evelyn heads to Narre Warren for a huge final game of the home and away season.
Narre Warren’s Abbey Barrientos (WD) made life tough for Monbulk in the Magpies’ defensive half. (Rob Carew: 424376)
Pakenham ruck Sarah ‘Ace’ Ventura played a complete game for the Lions in their second semi-final win over Healesville on Saturday. 424818 (Stewart Chambers: 424818)
ENROL NOW FOR 2025 LIMITED VACANCIES AVAILABLE
Our faith leads to wisdom and courage.
This motto is the energising source of all that happens at St Clare's and is embedded in the ethos of the school, the curriculum we offer and the relationships we develop within our school and wider communities.
If you are reading this as a prospective student, parent, guardian or family, I invite you to visit us at St Clare's and discover this dynamic learning environment and start the beginning of, what I hope will be, a life-long learning partnership.
Helen Staindl School Principal
