of orchids also meant a wide variety of awards to be won. For more on the story, TURN TO PAGE 2
Fiscal focus call
By Ethan Benedicto
Revitalising is at the forefront of every candidate’s vision for the ward of Akoonah, from Berwick Village to the numerous parks and reserves; however, a prioritisation of what this entails is a varied discussion, with suggestions for better governance to bringing things back down to basics. Kushal Shah, through his experience with his role in professional services and providing advice and solutions to the private sector, has emphasised the need for a strong focus on proper financial governance and management, seeing it
as the root of all issues that plague the city from residents’ cynicism to the lack of support on small businesses.
“The root cause of all the problems that we have is inefficient financial management, these are all the symptoms because whoever you ask, everybody has their own views on what problems we have,” Shah said.
“Once you have good financial management, we have more resources at our disposal, we have better decision-making, and whether we invest that extra cash or into extra resources in commu-
nity safety, or revitalising Berwick Village, we will have that flexibility.”
Shah added that aspects like the increasing crime rate, red tape and other similar issues in the ward have their foundations with improper financial investments, which if addressed, then allows the residents from throughout Casey to make informed decisions on their issues and what aspects they would like to prioritise. Using crime as an example, Shah said that if the ward has funding available due to better finances, “we can use that funding to fund CCTV cameras in the area,”
“For example, we could have some form of control centre in the council to monitor certain regions.
“We could also be using that funding for neighbourhood watches which is currently lacking,” he said.
Scott Dowling is of the same mind, agreeing that proper fiscal responsibility is a must for every councillor and that it is only when this is met that the necessary actions can be decided for the ward.
CONTINUED PAGE 12
Orchid show a success
By Ethan Benedicto
As the Melbourne CBD was packed with crowds over the Grand Final, it wasn’t the only event that saw an enormous turnout, with the Berwick Orchids Club’s 29 September Spring Show.
Over 600 people attended the event, and according to president Murray Harding, was “the best show we’ve ever had”.
“The major good moment for me was that we had around 40 membership applications, and when you consider that this club’s got around 70 members, that’s massive.”
Colours from red, yellow, purple and a blend of everything in between adorned the event, showering guests with a lush aroma that filled the air.
Each orchid presented itself with its own name, given to it by its owners, each ensured to fit its character from its diverse and intricate blooms.
There was also a series of categories to be won
throughout the event, showcasing some of the most illustrious blends of sophistication and elegance.
“The way this club operates is that we don’t have a green champion orchid,” Murray said.
“It might sound silly but there’s a good reason for it, there are a lot of different genera in orchids and you’ve got plants like cattleyas that can be quite large and things like Australian natives that can be quite small.
“When you get to the end and you’ve got a series of champions that need to be judged, and you try to pick amongst them for the best, you’re really not comparing eggs with eggs.
“What we do is we have champions in their respective genres, and as far as I’m concerned that makes an awful lot of sense.”
Looking ahead, the club is also looking to hold their orchid auction on 27 October, with Murray more than keen to showcase the club’s orchid collection and for the local community to come and indulge in them.
Deb Polman won Champion Orchid by a Novice. (434168)
Dendrobium Speciosum Variety Grandiflorum, which was grown by Club President Murray Harding. (434168)
Siew Bee Lae won Best Intermediate, here holding her “Dendrobium Pittero Gold”. (434168)
An overview of the show, where a forest of orchids and colours surrounded onlookers. (434168)
Judith Mehegan won the award of Novice Phalaenopsis Orchid. (434168)
Colin Gillespie won Best Large Specimen and Best Intermediate and Miniature. (Rob Carew: 434168)
Diana Lester and Club President Murray Harding won Best Native Specimen and Champion Cattleya. (Rob Carew: 434168_04)
Hatred slurs shock
By Cam Lucadou-Wells and Violet Li
Casey Council candidates have called out racist and gender hatred that have marred their election campaigns.
Quarters Ward candidate Kuljeet Kaur Robinson said almost all of her campaign posters had been incessantly defaced and some were even removed in the past six weeks.
People wrote “RISK” and “Don’t vote for this b****” on her posters, according to Ms Robinson.
“It happens again and again, and we’re cleaning again and again,” she said.
“I don’t know why somebody would do that. People don’t know me very well. I’m standing first time for the council.”
She said she even received a call from one of the supporters who said someone damaged his car with graffiti.
“He requested me to take my defaced poster off his fence as he was very scared,” she said.
“These posters were displayed in compliance with all local regulations and campaign guidelines. The removal and defacing of my posters (again and again) is not only an inconvenience but also an obstruction of my right to fair participation in the political process.
“I feel like some people are targeting me deliberately, and it is affecting my mental health and my family life.”
Ms Robinson said she felt threatened and had already planned to move out of the area if she did not get elected.
Waratah candidate Jamel Kaur Singh called for community ‘unity’ after her election sign was defaced with racist hate speech in Hallam.
It struck the heart of the Waratah Ward independent candidate, who has written children’s books and run school sports programs in the name of unity.
On the sign, her photograph was scrawled with the words: “Australia is for Australians / Go home and fix your own c*ntryy(sic)!!”
Initially, it filled Singh with shock and fear. Now she said she felt “a bit angry”.
“This is exactly why I want to be a councillor. I want to close the disparity gap and create unity through diversity.”
The vandalism was fuelled by “unconscious bias and stereotyping that’s becoming worse and not better”, Ms Singh said.
“That’s the sort of stuff we need to stamp from our community.
“It’s hard running (for election) as a woman of colour but I didn’t expect this.”
Ms Singh has lived in Australia for 44 years, after arriving as a four-year-old with her family from England.
Her family set up Australia’s first multifaith association in Adelaide in the 1980s and were flown around the world by the Department of Foreign Affairs to promote the cause.
She’s also since volunteered for the Australian Defence Force Reserve.
“You can’t get more Australian than that,” she said.
“I’m what an Australian looks like, I breathe Australia, I’m an Australian in every sense of the word.”
Ms Singh has written a series of children’s books The World is Our Playground, designed to be used in primary schools.
It tells of the adventures of two children of diverse backgrounds from Melbourne who travel to far-flung places in Vietnam, France, the Philippines, Greece as well as meeting a First Nations elder on Stradbroke Island.
“My aim is to celebrate diversity and empower our kids to see themselves represented in the books they’re reading.”
She decided to run for council to “help articulate the grass-roots community needs at a council level”.
Residents had been most concerned about safety – physically and psychologically, she said.
She said there was also a role for sports and community education - where kids were taught “consequences” and parents were taught to be responsible for their kids.
“I’d love to be promoting more unity. That’s an important part of Casey, and Australia as well.”
Ezatullah Alam, also a Waratah Ward candidate, was shocked to see his election poster defaced with Nazi symbols several weeks ago.
The ALP candidate’s face was altered with a textured-on Adolf Hitler hairstyle and moustache.
“This was very sad because I believe there is no space for such things in our community.”
“Even though we all have different affiliations, different opinions when it comes to politics, but going to that extreme, I think that’s unacceptable.
“They’re not only hurting my feelings, they’re hurting the feelings of the whole community.”
“There needed to be an awareness campaign in the community to say, ‘this is not acceptable’”, Mr Alam said.
Casey could also run more “social cultural events” open to all, regardless of religion or background.
“We should be encouraging, doing something good for the community instead of spreading hatred or racism based on race, religion or ethnicity - I think there is no space in this community for these sorts of behaviours.
“If I’m elected, I’ll definitely be working for [towards] more acceptable behaviour, respectful behaviour; not saying that this will completely go away since we are all human beings at the end of the day.”
Berwick man dies in Yellingbo
Sadly a man has died following a single vehicle crash in Yellingbo.
Police believe the driver lost control as he was travelling south along HealesvilleKooweerup Road on Sunday 29 September at about 4.40pm. The 26-year-old driver from Berwick was critically injured and sadly passed away on the way to hospital.
Yarra Ranges Highway Patrol are investigating the circumstances surrounding the collision and will prepare a report for the coroner.
Anyone who witnessed the incident, with dashcam/CCTV footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au.
A fatal collision has occured in Yellingbo (File)
Six teens arrested
Six boys have been arrested over a series of alleged aggravated burglaries in Bayside and Glen Eira, police say.
A 15-year-old from Wollert, a 17-year-old from Cranbourne North, a 17-year-old from Dandenong, a 15-year-old from Narre Warren, a 15-year-old from Dandenong and a 14-yearold from Doveton were intercepted in a “suspicious” car by police in Doncaster about 1.15am on Wednesday 25 September.
One of the car’s seven occupants was yet to be located, police say.
Moorabbin CIU detectives are still investigating.
Any information, dashcam or CCTV footage to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au
Jamel Kaur Singh next to her election sign, which was graffitied with racist hate speech. (Gary Sissons: 434074)
Quarters Ward candidate Kuljeet Kaur Robinson’s campaign posters have been defaced repeatedly over the past six weeks. (Supplied)
Ezatullah Alam said he was more determined to serve after his campaign poster was defaced. (Stewart Chambers: 404021)
Ahead of schedule
The Federal and State governments celebrated theconclusionofmajorroadprojectsinthesouth east on Wednesday 2 October.
The $1.5 billion South Eastern Roads Upgrade delivered 34 kilometres of new lanes – cutting congestion, improving safety and reducing travel times for the nearly 130,000 motorists that use these roads every day, according to the Major Road Projects Victoria.
The South Eastern Roads Upgrades have been completed early with major works on the Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road and the HealesvilleKoo Wee Rup Road finalised.
This will deliver extra lanes, traffic lights and upgraded intersections to improve safety and travel flow.
The works have delivered 41 new and upgraded intersections and more than 28 kilometres of shared-use paths, giving pedestrians and cyclists more options to move around their local areas.
The completion of the Golf Links Road Upgrade and the Pound Road West Upgrade will benefit the motorcyclists.
New lanes have been added in each direction between Abbotts Road and South Gippsland Highway and new shared walking and cycling paths and traffic lights have been installed at several intersections.
The Hallam North and Heatherton Road Upgrade and Lathams Road Upgrade added an extra lane in each direction between Heatherton Road and James Cook Drive.
Safety barriers have been installed and a new bridge has been built over the Peninsula Link –creating a new lane over the freeway.
Construction of the South Eastern Roads Upgrade has created about 1,700 full-time-equivalent jobs, with crews working more than three million work hours across the six projects since construction began in 2021.
This work was jointly funded by the Australian and Victorian governments.
Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional
Development and Local Government MP Catherine King said: “The Australian Government is committed to keeping Victoria moving by investing in critical infrastructure projects like the South Eastern Roads works as part of the Suburban Roads Upgrades.”
Victorian Transport Infrastructure MP Danny Pearson said: “Here in Victoria, we’re building more homes than any other state while ensuring our fastest growing communities have less con-
gested roads and better rail infrastructure to support more train services.
Holt MP Cassandra Fernando said: “We will continue to work closely with the Victorian Government to deliver meaningful projects like the South Eastern Roads Upgrade, ensuring our planning and investment come together to provide the best outcomes for commuters and communities.”
Trio charged
Three men from Endeavour Hills and Springvale have been charged after three allegedly stolen cars were seized by police in a fast-food outlet’s car park.
Moorabbin CIU detectives were called out to reports of a trio acting suspiciously in a car in Audsley Street, Clayton South about 2.30pm on Sunday 29 September.
The car and two others in the car park were stolen, police say.
Two Mazda CX5s and a Toyota Prado were seized by police after a search allegedly revealed a knife, high powered laser, prescription medications, methylamphetamine and suspected stolen property.
Two Endeavour Hills men both aged 29 and a Springvale man, 30, were charged with three counts of car theft, theft from a motor vehicle, handling stolen goods, being equipped to steal and related offences.
They were bailed to appear at Moorabbin Magistrates’ Court on 28 November.
Do you love swimming? Do you want to explore competitive swimming?
South East Aquatics is running a Fun Swim program providing young swimmers with a fun and engaging program to explore racing and develop and improve 'race ready' skills.
If you are a swimmer aged 7-12 and want to know what it is like swimming in a competitive squad, this is YOUR opportunity!
Where: Casey ARC, Narre Warren When: Wednesday Nights in Term 4 October 9th-27th of November, 7:15pm - 8:30pm
At the celebration is South-Eastern Metropolitan MP Michael Galea, Transport Infrastructure MP Danny Pearson, Holt MP Cassandra Fernando, MRPV CEO Duncan Elliott, South-Eastern Metropolitan MP Lee Tarlamis, and Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards. (Supplied)
Big increase in Casey crime
By Ethan Benedicto
There were over 3276 offences recorded for stealing from a motor vehicle in the year ending in June 2024 in the City of Casey, the highest recorded since 2020’s 3251 figure, according to the most recent release by the Crime Statistics Agency.
The 31.6 per cent increase from 2023’s number of 2488 recorded offences is followed by the second highest category of the breach of a family violence order, which is sitting at 3097 offences, up 6 per cent from 2023’s 2914.
Overall, Casey has seen an 11.3 per cent increase in total offences recorded from 2023, where figures were at 22,299 but now sit at 24,808; at the rate of per 100,000 in population, that number sits at 6161 in 2024, an 8.3 per cent increase from 2023’s figure of 5686.
According to the CSA, the top suburbs where incidents occurred remain relatively consistent to 2023, such as Cranbourne, which was previously second now replacing Narre Warren for first. Berwick comes in third, with Hampton Park at fourth and Clyde North at fifth.
For the top three, Cranbourne recorded 3339 offences, Narre Warren recorded 3152, and Berwick recorded 2854; in comparison to the previous years, the figures were 2925, 2965, and 2330, respectively a 14.1, a 6.3 and 22.4 per cent increase.
Victoria Police’s acting deputy commissioner of regional operations, Chris Gilbert, said on 26 September that “the reality is behind every statistic is a victim of crime”.
“These people and their experiences are the reason our members doggedly pursue those who endanger the community.”
The top offence for the state, also recording the highest year-on-year increase is theft from a motor vehicle, with a state-wide total of 61,959, and according to VicPol remains the most common criminal offence.
Following the breach of family violence orders
at second, the subgroup of other theft offences was third on the list, with 2170 recorded offences ending in June 2024, an 8 per cent increase from 2023’s 2008 figure; it has also been the highest since the 2355 figure in 2017, with the period of 2018 to 2023 having an average offence record of 1628.
Criminal damage, under property damage, is fourth, with a figure of 1773 offences, a slight increase from 2023’s 1764, ultimately remaining consistent with previous years.
Common assault is at the bottom of the list and is down to 1214 in 2024 compared to 2023’s 1217 recorded offences, which was the highest figure since 2021’s 1072 offences.
The most common location for criminal offences to occur in Casey remains in and at houses, with 10,530 recorded in the year ending June 2024, a 5 per cent increase from the previous year.
Deputy Commissioner Gilbert said that “we understand many in the community are anxious about the increasing prevalence of intruders entering homes.”
“Your home should be your castle, and this is why 70 additional frontline police, Dog Squad
members, Highway Patrol officers, and the Public Order Response Team continue to swarm Melbourne’s suburbs every single night - specifically targeting burglars and car thieves as the Air Wing watches from above.”
After a rather drastic drop in number, retail as a whole placed second on the list with 3668 offences recorded.
To be precise, shopping complexes saw 956 offences recorded, which has seen a steady increase since 2021’s figure of 785, jumping to 853 in 2022 and 951 in 2023.
Service stations were next in the subgroup with 927 offences recorded, spiking 21.8 per cent from 2023’s numbers of 761.
However, as a whole, streets, lanes and footpaths are second on the list for the most common location of offences to occur, with figures sitting at 3264; it has seen a 20.2 per cent increase from the previous year’s number of 2715.
“This determination to hold criminals accountable has never been more evident, with Victoria Police making 68,579 arrests and laying 189,666 charges over the past year,” Deputy Com-
missioner Gilbert said.
“Victoria’s four fastest growing crimes are all related to opportunistic offending - theft from motor vehicle, retail theft, motor vehicle theft, and the theft of other items such as petrol.”
At a closer look, Cranbourne saw a total of 1754 offences committed under property and deception offences, with theft as a stark outlier with the figure of 1087, compared to the second highest of property damage at 257 offences.
Crimes against the person came as the overall second with a total of 611 offences; for this group’s specifics, assault and related offences sat at 329.
Justice procedures offences had 620 total recorded offences, with the breach of orders sitting at 515.
Narre Warren displayed similar trends, with property and deception offences sitting first in 1819 and theft, specifically, with a figure of 1280.
Likewise, crime against a person was also second, with a total of 560 incidents and 275 accounts of assault and related offences.
Berwick is on the same boat; 1630 under property and deception offences with theft at 1033; crime against the person with a figure of 549 and assault and related offences at 330.
Under the alleged offender incidents, the age group between 18 to 24 remains the highest at 1273, but only by a small margin to the next age group of 1255 with those aged 45 and above.
Coming in third is the age group of 30 to 34 years old, with alleged offenders with the figure of 1235, followed by the age group of 25 to 29 at 1169.
“Operation Trinity has made 1550 arrests over the last year - an average of more than four burglars and thieves arrested across metropolitan Melbourne every day,” Deputy Commissioner Gilbert said.
“Police continue to see far too many properties burgled and cars stolen due to unlocked doors and windows, so we urge the community to take simple measures such as checking your home and car is locked before heading to bed.”
We’re building big near you and there will be transport disruptions
As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re easing congestion by building better roads in Melbourne’s south east.
Road disruptions: Closed roads, lanes and ramps
Healesville Koo-Wee Rup Road, Pakenham
Ballarto Road, Carrum Downs and Skye
Princes Freeway, Pakenham
Until mid NovPrinces Freeway Warragul-bound entry ramp
7pm 4 Oct to 5am 7 OctBetween Southeast Boulevard and Princes Freeway Princes Freeway city-bound ramps
4 Oct to mid NovPrinces Freeway city-bound exit ramp
7pm 11 Oct to 5am 14 OctBetween Southeast Boulevard and Peet Street Princes Freeway city-bound ramps
Until late DecBetween Boggy Creek and Greenwood Drive At Potts Road
7pm to 5am on weeknights, until 10 Oct
Between McGregor Road and Nar Nar Goon interchange
7pm 25 Oct to 5am 28 Oct Reduced to one lane city-bound near McGregor Road
Clyde Road, Berwick 8pm to 12am, 9 and 10 Oct 8pm 11 Oct to 5am 14 Oct
8pm 18 Oct to 5am 21 Oct
8pm 25 Oct to 5am 28 Oct
McGregor Road, Pakenham 7pm 25 Oct to 5am 28 Oct
Princes Freeway city-bound entry ramp
Princes Freeway city-bound entry ramp
The City of Casey has seen an 11.3 per cent overall spike in recorded offences in the year ending June 2024, compared to the same period in 2023. (Gary Sissons: 429633)
Dillwynia ward candidates
Some candidates were not able to meet the required deadline for the print edition of this questionnaire, as such, their responses, if available, will be updated online.
GURPREET GILL
Suburb of residence: Clyde North
How long have you lived in The City of Casey?
I have lived in City of Casey for 16 years.
Political party (past or present):
Not affiliated with any political parties
Occupation, business/employer name:
Landscape architect, City of Greater Dandenong
Property interests:
I live in my own house
Business interests:
Co-founder of Genuine Connection Care
Three most important issues for your ward:
· Community safety.
· Services development alongside urban growth.
· Sustainable development
Describe your involvement in the local community:
I was part of Casey Smart City community reference group for 2 years. (Have recently resigned from the position to avoid a conflict of interest with the election)
Also recently joined the estate’s community garden group to build rapport among my community
Why are you standing for election?
I’m running because I care deeply about our community and want to address the issues that matter most to residents. My slogan, ‘Community Voices, Community Choices,’ reflects my commitment to fostering a more inclusive environment. By prioritising community input, I believe we can better understand each other and create solutions that benefit everyone.
While this is my first time running for a local election, I hope to bring a fresh perspective and a strong desire to serve our community.
ANTHONY DISSANAYAKE
How long have you lived in The City of Casey?
I have been living in Australia, specifically in Victoria, since 1997, and I have called the City of Casey home for the past 16 years.
Political party (past or present):
I am not endorsed by any political party.
Occupation, business/employer name:
I work as a Conveyancer for a large firm.
Property interests:
I own my own house
Business interests:
What is your campaign budget?
Between $300 - 500 Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed?
No campaign donors.
What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign?
None
Who will you direct your preferences to?
I would like to express my support for Stefan Koomen. While he is not in the ward I’m running in, his passion for our community shines through his active involvement and engagement. I believe he is an excellent candidate, not only for his own ward but also for Casey Council as a whole.
No business interests
Three most important issues for your ward:
· Better mobile phone reception,
· Fixing Clyde Road/Thomson Road intersection, and
· Greater value for money from our rates.
Describe your involvement in the local community:
· President of the Casey Residents and Ratepayers Association during the dismissal of former councillors,
· Former President of the Lions Club,
· Member of the Clyde Road, Berwick Level
Suburb of residence:
Clyde North (Smith’s Lane Estate)
How long have you lived in The City of Casey?
10 years plus
Political party (past or present):
No affiliation with any Political party Occupation, business/employer name: Small Transport business owner
Property interests:
No interest but one day I will pay off my mortgage.
Business interests:
I am a transport contractor on trucks
Three most important issues for your ward:
1. Strengthen safety and security by having more police patrolling in Clyde North.
2. Improve the maintenance of roads, parks, nature strips and footpaths.
3. Enhance local infrastructure with better road connectivity, and more public transport and improve mobile network for public safety.
Describe your involvement in the local community:
I have organised numerous multicultural events such as sports, and athletic meets and played a part in coaching an under 10 cricket team.
Why are you standing for election?
I am standing for election because I am passionate about serving our community and making a positive impact in the City of Casey. I believe that local government plays a crucial role in addressing the needs and concerns of residents, and I want to be a voice for our community.
My goal is to ensure that our ward receives the attention it deserves in areas such as infrastructure, community services, and environmental sustainability. I am committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all residents feel heard and valued. Together, we
Crossing Removal Project – Stakeholder Liaison Group,
· School Board Member and many more. Why are you standing for election?
My vision is to tackle the issues that affect us daily: enhancing our infrastructure with better phone reception so we stay connected, ensuring our rates are well-utilized, improving our roads for safer travel, and creating local jobs to support our local families. I pledge to work tirelessly and collaborate effectively to achieve these goals. Your concerns will be heard and transformed into meaningful actions.
can create a vibrant and thriving community for everyone.
What is your campaign budget?
$5000
Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed?
So far one person donated $1100
What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign?
No one as I am independent
Who will you direct your preferences to?
I am working on this based on the candidates’ seriousness about the Dillwynia ward community.
What is your campaign budget?
$5000.00
Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed?
Self-funded.
What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign?
No one
Who will you direct your preferences to? NO preference deals and NO dummy candidates backing me.
DILLWYNIA WARD
Suburbs: Berwick and Clyde North
Candidates: Jaz Masuta Kamaljeet Singh, Joe Pang, Baljinder Dhaliwal, Anthony Walter, David Bissell,
Anthony Dissanayake, Dilani Hewa Maddumage, Gurpreet Gill.
JOE PANG
Gurpreet Gill. (Supplied)
Joe Pang. (Supplied)
Key election issues focus
By Ethan Benedicto
With both Clyde North and Berwick Waters still being one of the biggest growth corridors in the City of Casey, Dillwynia Ward candidates are focused on addressing key issues around infrastructure, connectivity and public services.
Congested roads and the lack of proper mobile and internet connectivity have been a rife topic of discussion for many years among the residents of these suburbs, especially in Clyde North which only received its first mobile tower earlier this year.
Candidate, Joe Pang, believes in sustainable development, one that happens alongside urban growth where he aims to prioritise “community voices [and] community choices”.
Through his experience in Casey’s Smart City initiative, Pang advocates for a more inclusive environment, one where the community has a voice in development that is environmentally conscious.
Anthony Dissanayake has made it his mission to address mobile phone reception., road safety and getting better value from council rates, pledging to work “tirelessly and collaborate effectively” in order to achieve his goals.
Tackling the Clyde Road - Thompsons Road roundabout is an important vision for Dissanayake, one that he aims to achieve through community engagement and transforming concerns into “meaningful actions”.
With a passion for serving the community, Gurpreet Gill is looking to prioritise increased police patrols but also has a strong stance to take on improving road maintenance and improving public transport, alongside network and mobile connections.
Jaz Masuta places mobile coverage at the forefront of his campaign, but also emphasises public safety, education and youth programs, as well as traffic management.
At the same time, he is looking at engaging
towards more multicultural community events and strengthening local businesses, in conjunction with a bigger focus on senior and disability services in the area.
Roads, from their physical conditions to the congestion are a main focus for Baljinder Dhaliwal, which are “riddled with potholes and create dangerous traffic conditions for families and businesses alike”.
In addition to infrastructure, the high rates that “burden local households and businesses” were another focus, with the impacts of crime and mobile connection also in his vision.
With his roots in transparency, inclusivity and sustainability, Anthony Walter emphasises on the
public’s voice, with the ward facing challenges such as land management and infrastructure, to enhancing public safety and mobile coverage in the area.
Through his vision of creating an environment where “everyone has the opportunity to thrive”, Walter aims to achieve this through cohesive engagement and fostering collaboration to achieve the community’s goals.
David Bissell echoes a similar vision, stressing the importance of having a council that has “Casey at heart”, where the community is able to “live and enjoy” the services that the council provides.
An honest and open council is a must for Bissell, one that is not “driven by political or per-
sonal agendas”, and one that is accountable to its actions as it is efficient.
To Dilani Hewa Maddumage, a communitycentric council is also his focus, where he stated that he is committed to “implementing a comprehensive strategy that will significantly contribute to the local council and community”.
From the establishment of fitness centres with simple access to carrying out an organic waste collection system , Maddumage is also committed to making Casey a “renowned tourist destination” through bird and water parks, functional halls for event venues and efficient mobile connection to be established before homes.
Lifestyle Meridian presents Sounds of Spring!
Saturday 19th October, from 10am to 2pm
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Try your hand at lawn bowls, pickle ball and croquet, and be sure to cool off with a delicious ice cream.
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A good portion of Berwick Waters is still under construction, with skeleton homes and heavy-duty vehicles dotting the landscape. (Ethan Benedicto: 424051)
New schools are named
The two new Clyde North schools, one primary and one secondary, have received their new names after being announced by the Victorian School Building Authority earlier in September. The names were selected with input from the Bunurong Traditional Owner Group, Geographic Names Victoria as well as community consultation to reflect an indigenous interpretation of the facilities.
Clyde North Primary School, now named Turrun Primary School (pronounced turr-run) is a Bunurong word that means she-oak, while Clyde North Secondary, now named Wulerrp Second-
ary College (pronounced wool-erp) comes from the Bunurong word for tea tree.
Turrun Primary School principal, Kristy Miller said that the school is on track for completion, adding that “we’re so excited to welcome the children on the first day in 2025”.
“To a beautiful new school with state-of-theart facilities and an enthusiastic teaching and administration team,” she said.
The completed primary school will include three learning neighbourhoods, a community hub, an administration and library building, hardcourts, a sports field and a car park.
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(MOSTLY UNRESERVED) THIS AUCTION & VIEWING WILL BE HELD LIVE ONLINE ONLY WITH PHONE, ABSENTEE & INTERNET BIDDING EASILY ORGANISED ALL ITEMS LOCATED IN THE PAKENHAM AREA (FOR SECURITY LOCATION GIVEN TO WINNING BIDDERS ONLY) PHILLIP CALDWELL AUCTIONEERS: ENQUIRIES 0411 529 414 ALL LOTS & VIDEO WALKTHROUGHS ONLINE
Wulerrp Secondary College is in the same boat, looking to open its doors around the same period, with Leanne Winfield appointed as the principal.
Frasers Property Australia’s general manager of development in Victoria, Sarah Bloom, said that seeing the schools come to life was a gratifying milestone for the Berwick Waters community.
“These facilities are such a critical piece of the Berwick Waters puzzle and we’re so excited that residents will now have the opportunity to educate their children without having to leave their community,” she said.
The mum to Michael, a future Turrun Primary student, Zeljka Lenart said that her family couldn’t wait for the opening of the new school.
“My family and I are very excited for the opening of Turrun Primary, together we’re embarking on this exciting journey with our children and the community,” she said.
The primary school will be holding a series of events for new students and their families, including a Meet the Year Level Staff event at Bridgewater Community Centre on 20 November and a family picnic on 10 December.
From left to right: Renee Dunnett (Turrun Primary business manager), Jill Lim (Frasers Prop. land development director), Kristy Miller (Turrun Primary principal) and Suzanne Litchfield (Turrun Primary assistant principal). (Supplied)
From left to right: Michael, Saya, Danika and Vidyut, future students of Turrun Primary School. (Supplied)
E-scooter death concern
By Violet Li
The State Coroner has highlighted the safety concerns on e-scooter use after a Cranbourne North man died after speeding with no helmet on a residential street.
On the late night of 14 March 2022, the then51-year-old Carl Edward Medlyn lost control of his e-scooter while fast-speeding with no helmet east along Hoysted Avenue in Cranbourne North, near the intersection with Candytuft Close. He fell onto the footpath and was discovered by a resident after midnight.
Mr Medlyn suffered a severe traumatic brain injury, woke from a coma after approximately one month, and stayed in the hospital for rehabilitation where he discovered his lung cancer.
In August, Mr Medlyn developed aspiration pneumonia and passed away three days later.
The autopsy concluded he died from aspiration pneumonia, traumatic brain injury arising from the scooter incident, with the contributing factor of lung cancer.
State Coroner Paul Lawrie stated it was impossible to conclude the causes that made Mr Medlyn fall from the scooter.
“It may have been a loss of control due to excessive speed, the suspension and handling limitations of the scooter, a transition from the roadway to the footpath or across a driveway crossover, or a combination of these,” he stated.
He pointed out that Mr Medlyn was likely to be impaired by cannabis use to some extent, but he also had a history of self-medicating with cannabis.
“It is not possible to say what the effects of habituation may have been or the degree to which he would have been impaired while he was riding the scooter,” he stated.
Coroner Lawrie noted that e-scooters were prohibited from being used on Victorian public footpaths, now, and at the time of Mr Medlyn’s death.
“The consequences of a crash at the high speeds these vehicles are capable of, particularly when the rider has no head protection, are all too likely to be catastrophic.
“I note that in a report summarising the findings of e-scooter trials conducted by the Victorian Depart-
“The power output and speed capability of this scooter have the potential to, very quickly, place a rider in a situation where they are at the limits of controllability,” he stated.
Casey City Council postal election
My council, my vote
An election is being held for Casey City Council.
Check the mail for your ballot pack
Ballot packs containing voting material were mailed to enrolled voters from Monday 7 October.
This is a postal election only.
If you do not receive your ballot pack by Tuesday 15 October please visit vec.vic.gov.au to complete the online replacement form, or call 131 832 to arrange a replacement.
Candidates
Candidates who have nominated for election are listed in the ballot packs and at vec.vic.gov.au
A photo and candidate statement will also be included if provided by candidates. Responses to a candidate questionnaire, if provided, are available at vec.vic.gov.au
How to vote correctly
You must complete your ballot paper correctly for your vote to count. Put the number 1 in the box next to the candidate you want to see elected, then number all the other boxes in order of your choice. You must number every box and only use each number once.
ment of Transport and Planning, published in March 2023, concerns were noted about unsafe behaviour by e-scooter users including high-speed riding, riding on footpaths, not wearing a helmet, and carrying a passenger.
“The report also noted that safety risks increased when users did not observe safety-based rules.”
Coroner Lawrie stated that he had directed the report to the Department of Transport and Planning to inform their research in the e-scooter trials.
Mr Medlyn suffered seizures after an assault in 2016 and was medically unfit to drive. He purchased the scooter in early March 2022.
How to return your ballot pack
Put your completed ballot paper in the ballot paper envelope, complete the declaration, then post it ASAP using the reply-paid envelope provided, or hand deliver it during election office hours to: Suite OF003
Cranbourne Park Shopping Centre
125 High Street (access from Level 1 carpark near Anytime Fitness) Cranbourne
Voting
is compulsory
Voting is compulsory for all voters who were enrolled at 4 pm on Wednesday 7 August. This includes state-enrolled and council-enrolled voters.
If you don’t vote and don’t have a valid excuse, you may be fined.
Your completed ballot pack must be in the mail or hand delivered by 6 pm Friday 25 October.
State-enrolled voters can register for free VoterAlert SMS and email reminders at vec.vic.gov.au
(File)
BUSINESS IN FOCUS
Reimagine love ceremonies
Josephine Mead’s ‘Matrimony’ is a bold exploration of love, ritual, and union that redefines the traditional through a queer lens.
Opening at Walker Street Gallery and Art Centre on September 24 and running until November 15, 2024, this exhibition invites viewers to reimagine love ceremonies, offering a space that is as much about reflection as it is about transformation.
The core of ‘Matrimony’ revolves around Mead’s personal experience with love and its ceremonial expressions. At the heart of the exhibition are paintings of the artist’s bridal bouquet, positioned among 14 pews, deliberately installed as “spectators” within the gallery.
These pews, and the bouquets they frame, symbolise the quiet anticipation and sacredness often present in rituals of union. Here, the floral “witnesses” stand as metaphors for the societal gaze, while also holding space for personal reflection on what it means to publicly declare love.
A standout piece, ‘Bridal Veil’, is a hand-crafted sculpture made from thousands of brass wedding rings. The rings - delicately yet powerfully intertwined - serve as a striking visual of the weight of commitment. As viewers observe the sheer volume and intricacy of the sculpture, they are reminded of the complexity of union—one that is both celebratory and binding.
Accompanying the visual elements is a soundscape composed by Dandenong-based musicians BJ Morriszonkle and Nero Friktschn Feuerherdt. Their orchestral-like arrangement, designed to evoke the moments before a wedding begins, deepens the atmosphere of anticipation within the gallery. It resonates with the emotional build-up that precedes a life-altering moment like marriage.
Beyond the exhibition itself, ‘Matrimony’ offers public programs that continue the conversation around love, memory, and identity. Among them are workshops, discussions, and a unique cinema and performance night that promises to challenge and expand viewers’ understanding of queer love.
Mead’s ‘Matrimony’ is a bold exploration of love, ritual, and union.
Josephine Mead’s ‘Matrimony’ is a triumph in exploring the multifaceted layers of love and ritual. By framing these ideas within a queer context, the exhibition offers an inclusive, powerful look at
union—one that transcends the heteronormative and invites everyone to reconsider what it means to love and commit.
- Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre, corner
Walker and Robinson St, Dandenong. (03) 8571 5320
greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/matrimonyexhibition
Josephine
Cranbourne North Open Days
Pop along to Summerset Cranbourne North’s upcoming Open Days, enjoy some refreshments, and tour the brand-new range of Hibiscus homes.
These premium single-level villas are a range of ground or lift accessible, upper-level homes featuring two spacious bedrooms, bathroom, powder room, and internal access garage. Featuring open-plan kitchen, living and dining with either a generous garden or balcony with views over the neighbouring park, they’re perfect for entertaining friends and family.
Once complete, residents of Summerset Cranbourne North# will be able to enjoy a range of resort-style facilities, including an indoor swimming pool and spa, resident bar, café, exercise room, hair and beauty salon, recreational bowling green and resident workshop.
With two-bedroom Hibiscus homes available with flexible pricing from $679,800,* you could be loving the Summerset life sooner than you think.
Love the life you choose.
Open Days Friday 11 & Saturday 12 October, 10am - 2pm
Summerset Cranbourne North 98 Mannavue Boulevard, Cranbourne North 03 7068 5642 | cranbourne.sales@summerset.com.au
Visions for Akoonah ward
FROM PAGE 1
He added that there is a need to prioritise spending and ensure that council funds are allocated to areas that “genuinely need them”, and for him, this means tackling revitalisation through upgraded facilities to make Berwick and its surrounds much more welcoming and usable for the community.
For him, it’s about making sure that infrastructure is able to “welcome the community, so people want to use them”.
“Like in the parks and in the gardens, down the gardens; there are a lot of graffiti that needs to be removed right away, a lot of the side streets and the parks are very dark at night and so on.”
In order to do this, Dowling said it’s all about “making sure that [Akoonah] gets its fair slice of that economic pie”.
“Until you get in and understand where it’s all going, you can’t put a policy together, [but] that’s when you can say to the people, ‘I have an economic plan’ and be honest with them about what it is”.
Shah reinforces that this approach, which focuses on the financial aspect would apply to the entirety to Casey and not just Akoonah, a method that, if applied correctly would be a benefit to all.
“Let’s talk more broadly about Casey, businesses are under the pump based on the cost of living pressures,” he said.
“They’re paying too much money for electricity, gas, labour, taxes, rates and land tax, but again, if we have better financial management then we can give them some relief in terms of the taxes and rates.
“They’re not saying, ‘help me run my business’, they know how to do that - they need help in managing the costs and as a council, we should be helping them by reducing how much we charge them, they don’t see the value.”
Patrick Ferdinands wants to see good governance on all levels of the council, seeing it as an essential part of what makes a community thrive, which means that financial management and decision-making are a must.
Aiming to build on the work of the existing coun-
Seeing the ward prosper is integral for the candidates, but this process of revitalisation requires key steps that each candidate harbours different views of accomplishing. (Rob Carew: 185193)
cil administrators, he wants to ensure that the community’s voice plays a role when it comes to governance.
“Good financial governance is obviously the bedrock of any community objective because in order to have outcomes, you need to have the financial support and the infrastructure there,” Ferdinands said.
“When we talk about finance, council finance, it doesn’t come arbitrarily or from thin air, it comes from the pockets of the residents and the community grants and other things that come in - it’s public money.
“That public money needs to be spent wisely, and if we’re spending it within our community, we need to ensure that it aligns with the objectives of said community.”
A strong community voice on what revitalisation looks like is needed according to Ferdinands, where the process should not be dictated by a single vision but instead reflect the desires and expectations of the residents.
“If we’re talking about building or changing the structure, or revitalisation, we need community input into what it would look like,” he said.
“It’s not going to be the thoughts or views of myself or any other candidate; it’s also going to be about encouraging open communication so that decisions like this can actually meet the public’s expectations.”
For this process of revitalisation to happen, a few prior steps need to be taken through social opportunities such as public meetings, online discussion platforms, surveys and polls to workshops and advisory committees.
Utilising existing assets in Akoonah Ward and combining them with technology and sustainability in order to enhance the area, is what revitalisation looks like for Dianne Pagliuca.
Focusing on the ward’s current strengths, such as education and healthcare, as well as finding ways to support and integrate these sectors into the community’s fabric is key, much akin to the current Living Labs initiative by Casey.
As an example, the Edward Flack reserve could be a potential place of, and a person of celebration, “is there something that we can do to sort of celebrate that, whether it be a fun run or something along those lines?”
“It’s about looking at those age-wide interactions and how we can bring that into Berwick Village - we’ve got Akoonah Park, Wilson Botanic Park, and so on.”
With the vision of incorporating more sustainable and renewable energy in council, Pagliuca believes that every small step taken by the people and the council to reduce waste and carbon footprint can make a significant impact.
“If every council looked at how we can stop waste, how we can reduce out reliance on fossil fuels and such, these small steps make a big impact.
“The City of Casey is already heading toward zero emissions, and they’re doing that by making their buildings more energy efficient,” she said.
She also added that Casey is in a fortunate financial position to endeavour on these initia-
tives, but also insists that the ratepayer’s money should be treated with respect as if it were the councillors’ own.
“Councillors need to get smart with their money by saving it through sustainable initiatives, [currently] they’re starting to put LED lights for street lighting, making buildings more sustainable through solar panels and so on,” she said.
An outlying factor is safety, with every councillor agreeing on different methods to achieve this, to mitigate criminal and or anti-social behaviour.
Mush Rahaman sees safety as a primary step towards the ward’s prosperity; having been a recent victim of a near-carjacking incident, he emphasises that criminal issues cannot be solved through strict enforcement alone.
“We need to have strategic planning where we work to slowly clean up, it cannot be that strict because that won’t change the mentality,” he said.
“Berwick used to be safe, and people are used to that and we have to keep it that way, we never used to worry about it, but our habits need to slowly change.
“There are a few approaches, precautions like advocating for more frequent policing, the neighbourhood watch - this all has to be initiated.”
Ringing a similar tone, Rahaman also believes that a strong economy can “afford to do many things”, such as the initiatives he previously mentioned.
“These young families need support, elderly people need support, these business people need support [so] we need to look into the root and if the root is strong, then everything else can be done,” he said.
Samuel Dennison believes that revitalising the ward means prosperity through community engagement, whether it be through events, festival, and activities that bring the people together.
Akoonah ward candidates
AKOONAH WARD
Suburbs: Berwick and Beaconsfield
Candidates: Mush Rahaman, Dianne Pagliuca, Patrick R. Ferdinands, Kushal Shah, Scott William Dowling, Samuel Dennison
Mush Rahaman
Suburb of residence: Berwick
How long have you lived in The City of Casey?: 11 Years
Political party (past or present): No Political affiliation (Both past or Present) - Fully Independent
Occupation, business/employer name: SelfEmployed - Owner of La Baguette Cafe, Berwick
Property interests: I currently own the home I live in with my family which I’ve lived in the whole time I’ve lived in Berwick. This reflects our commitment to the community and our investment in its future.
Business interests: I own a hospitality business that creates jobs and fosters strong community connections. This experience has provided me with valuable insights into the needs and aspirations of our community.
Three most important issues for your ward: Community Safety: Safety remains a critical concern for residents. We need to enhance our efforts by investing in safer roads and infrastructure, better lighting, and expanding neighbourhood watch programs to ensure all residents feel safe.
Support for Our Aging Population: Our aging population is a vital contributor to the local economy. By expanding programs that promote their wellbeing and social engagement, we can empower them to thrive and continue supporting their needs, assisting them to continue to access local businesses & services.
Economic Growth for Small and Medium Enterprises: To create a truly business-friendly environment, we must focus on reducing red tape and offering targeted grants. This will foster economic stability and generate flexible job opportunities, helping young families achieve a balanced life with financial security. At the core of these efforts is the need for integrity and transparency in leadership. By
Scott William Dowling
Suburb of Residence: Berwick
How long have you lived in the City of Casey? For 20 years, I have had family here for three generations.
Political party (past or present): NIL
Occupation, businesses/employer name: Real Estate Agent, Scott Dowling Real Estate
Samuel Dennison
Suburb of residence: Berwick in the ward of Akoonah.
How long have you lived in The City of Casey? I have lived in the City of Casey for the majority of the past decade, building my first home here in Cranbourne West and more recently residing in my home in Berwick.
Political party (past or present): I hold a Liberal Party membership, but emphasise that politics has no place in the council. My entire campaign is independently funded and run by myself, family and friends and no big business or political party help. I am not endorsed by any political party or union and will continue to put my case forward to be the best representative for the people of Berwick and Beaconsfield.
Occupation, business/employer name: I have a share in a small automotive audio-visual business based in Carrum Downs called MTX Audio. I have been lucky enough to find a career that I enjoy, employs others and allows me the
addressing these interconnected issues— safety, support for our aging population, and economic vitality—while upholding strong ethical standards, we can create a stronger, more resilient City of Casey that benefits all residents.
Describe your involvement in the local community: I am committed to our community, volunteering my time and resources to support local initiatives. As a member of the Narre Warren Business Group, I collaborate with fellow business owners to promote economic growth. My goal is to ensure our neighbourhood thrives and every voice is heard. Why are you standing for election? Berwick is my home, where I raise my three children and run a small business. I’m committed to our community’s growth and well-being. Through my hospitality venue, I’ve connected with many residents and understand the needs of local businesses. I believe it’s time for our voice to be heard, and I am dedicated to representing your interests on the council.
What is your campaign budget?: I am selffunding my campaign
Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed?: I am self-funding my campaign and will not accept any donations. What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign? I have not sought assistance or advice from councillors, ex-councillors, MPs, or exMPs for my campaign.
Who will you direct your preferences to?
As an independent candidate, I prioritize the needs of our community above party politics. I am not preferencing or aligned with any other candidate because I believe it is your vote, and only you have the right to choose your preferences based on the merits of each candidate.
Property interests: I own my own home.
Business interests: Coffe Forum trading at Akoonah Market on Sundays, Scott Dowling Real State; both businesses are registered and trade in Berwick.
Three most important issues for your ward: Public safety, thriving neighbourhoods and safe roads.
Describe your involvement in the local community: I am on the board of a not-for-profit
flexibility to dedicate time to the election campaign and as a councillor if I am lucky enough to be successful.
Property interests: The only property I own is my home here in Berwick.
Business interests: As mentioned above, I own a share in a small business based in Carrum Downs. Some residents have signalled their preference for candidates to have their business interests outside of the Casey electorate.
Three most important issues for your ward:
· A number of locals have shared their concerns over an increasing number of breakins and aggravated burglaries in homes and businesses. We need to tackle this at a local level, by installing and improving lighting and CCTV systems, marketing local community neighbourhood watch groups and working with local law enforcement to ensure the community is taking the necessary steps to keep their homes and businesses safe.
· Aside from rates and rubbish, another core issue is our road and pedestrian infrastructure. I recently repeated the need for a safe
Kushal Shah
Suburb of residence: Berwick
How long have you lived in The City of Casey? 20 years
Political party (past or present): None
Occupation, business/employer name: Board Director of Public Sector organisations and Business Owner of a specialist Professional Services Firm advising Private Sector organisations
Property interests: Place of Residence
Business interests: Owner of a specialist Professional Services Firm that only advises and provides solutions to the Private Sector
Three most important issues for your ward: (1) lack of integrity, (2) misgovernance, (3) financial mismanagement. These 3 issues collectively are the root cause of the community’s high level of cynicism, mistrust and dissatisfaction. All other issues are symptoms of these problems - unless these 3 root causes are not addressed, any reforms or solutions will be ineffective.
Describe your involvement in the local community: I am actively involved at both the macro and micro-community levels and have been delivering successful community outcomes for a very long time. As a Board Director on public sector organisations like public hospitals, aged care, art and leisure, languages and water corporations, I have used my professional expertise to improve governance, financial management and organisational performance at these organisations which ultimately enhances the community outcomes and satisfaction. I am also active in industry associations and professional bodies. At a micro level, I am actively involved in the local footy, cricket and soccer sports clubs and also at my kids’ school parents association in Berwick and surrounds. All this macro and micro-community involvement gives me unique insights into the community’s needs and expectations. I wish to leverage these unique community insights and design and deliver ‘fit for purpose’ solutions to the wider community through the Council.
Why are you standing for election? Casey residents are harbouring deep cynicism and mistrust towards Casey Council - in fact lots of
Musical Theatre Company that puts shows on at Beaconhills College Theatre in Beaconsfield. It creates a great platform for all youths and adults who would like to be involved and build their confidence.
Why are you standing for election? I believe in our city and the people; I will make sure my key criteria are adequately funded. The previous council ruled with self-interest and the current administrators are on autopilot, they are not invested in the community.
pedestrian crossing across the Princes Highway to Wilson Botanical Park. Speaking with the Friends of Wilson Botanic Park, we cannot afford to leave this issue any longer, following two tragic deaths of those trying to cross this road. (Link to story)
· I’d also like to focus attention on the heart of our community – Berwick Village. It’s time to celebrate the history of our little village, clean it up, sort out the parking and bring back some of the successful events, like the Christmas lights and night markets.
Describe your involvement in the local community: I have been a proactive neighbour, helping out with forming a WhatsApp group to help combat crime on our street. I have volunteered around Casey for over 4 years with the Sikh Volunteers Australia and attended local not for profit clubs and charities such as the Casey Rotary Club, local RSL and Mens Shed and the Mental Health Foundation Australia. I also love attending cultural events such as the Holi Festival earlier this year and recently a Janmashtami event both in Akoonah Park. Why are you standing for election? I care
residents in the Akoonah ward have expressed a preference for the State Government appointed Administrators to continue instead. Looking at this state of affairs, a famous saying came to my mind - ‘the only thing necessary for the triumph of evil, is for good and competent people to do nothing’ and I realised there is no point sitting on the sidelines and complaining. Casey Council has a highly complex legislative, strategic, financial and governance environment that requires a high level of professional competency and experience to excel and add value to the community. Having good intentions and passion for the community is not enough. Looking at the past Councillors and some of the current candidates up for election I remembered the famous saying ‘Be the change that you wish to see in the world’. Being a Chartered Accountant, Lawyer, Executive MBA with 25 years of proven professional expertise in governance, financial management, law and organisational performance, and a track record of delivering community success through my Board roles, it would be highly amiss of me not to use this professional expertise for the benefit of the community that I am so closely involved in, am a part of and where my young children are growing up. I realised I needed to make a positive contribution to the next generation.
What is your campaign budget? $4,000
Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed? It’s time to restore the community’s trust in elected Councillors and have a transparent and demonstrable break from the past. As a result, I am an absolutely independent candidate and am funding my own campaign. I wish to resist the potential of any future conflicts of interest arising from any donations received. I know any potential conflicts of interest can be appropriately managed but I do not wish for such a situation to ever arise.
What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign? None. I do not know any politicians as I am not a politician and do not wish to be one. Local Government level should be apolitical and all about the community, we can leave the politics to the State and Federal level of governance.
Who will you direct your preferences to? Undecided.
What is your campaign budget? $3000
Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed? I am self-funded. What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or exMPs have assisted or advised your campaign? Norma McCausland previous City of Casey Mayor.
Who will you direct your preferences to? Samuel Danniels
about our local community and have witnessed the ongoing growth of our area and changing demographics. Residents and businesses deserve to be supported by a local representative that values honesty, accountability, integrity and responsibility - things we cannot afford to have abused or neglected again. I believe it’s time to have a fresh team with new ideas and passion to shape a better municipality for everyone now and into the future.
What is your campaign budget? TBD Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed? I am funding the majority of my campaign personally, the only additional help I have had is from friends and family (thank you!)
What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or exMPs have assisted or advised your campaign? I have reached out to all local representatives, The State Member for Berwick, Brad Battin has offered his support where possible. Who will you direct your preferences to? TBD
Patrick R. Ferdinands
Suburbs of Residence: I reside in Berwick.
How long have you lived in the City of Casey? I have lived in Berwick, the Ward of Akoonah, with my wife and two daughters since 2004.
Political party (past or present): I am an independent, never having been a member of a political party.
occupation, businesses/employer name: I have a private practice as an independent lawyer dealing with civil matters. I am also employed by Victoria Police as a Prosecutor/ Manager.
Property interests: I own my home in Berwick, which is my principal place of residence.
Business interests: I run my own private legal practice, Ferdinands Legal. However, I am independent of any self-interest as my practice does not rely on local infrastructure.
Three most important issues for your ward:
Community Safety: Residents prioritise a safe environment, emphasising the need for reduced crime, well-lit streets, safer roads, and a more inclusive community where trust among neighbours is fostered.
Social Connection and Infrastructure: There is a strong desire for greater community engagement, with calls for more family-friendly activities, multicultural festivals, and support for new residents. This also includes proactive planning to accommodate rapid population growth through enhanced infrastructure and social opportunities.
Transport Infrastructure and Urban Growth: Residents are concerned about improving transport options and managing urban expansion. They seek better public transport, active transport options (eg walking and cycling tracks), and careful planning to maintain a balance between development and the community’s desire for a peaceful, small-town feel.
Dianne Pagliuca
Suburb of Residence: I reside in Berwick, Akoonah Ward.
How long have you lived in the City of Casey? 23 years.
Political party (past or present): no political parties past or present. Occupation, business/employer name: Home duties.
Property interests: Own home.
Business interests: No business interests. Three most important issues for your ward: Delivery of core services, especially roads so as to ease congestion.
Poor planning practices allowing inappropriate or over-development at the expense of the environment and standard of living.
Safety and increased crime rates.
Describe your involvement in the local community: I have volunteered with kinder-
Addressing these issues is crucial for fostering a vibrant, safe, and connected community in Casey.
Describe your involvement in the local community: Whilst my focus has been on justice and equity across the community more broadly, my goal in pursuing a position on the council is, if elected, to focus on enhancing community involvement in council matters. I am committed to ensuring that decisions reflect the needs and ideas of today’s residents, fostering an environment where diverse voices are heard and respected.
Why are you standing for election? In short, to serve our community. I have been blessed with the community I have raised my children in and I just want to give back in a way that benefits the community with my unique skills and knowledge. As a prosecutor, I learned the importance of fairness and justice in maintaining public confidence, while my role as board chairperson involved championing open communication, fiscal responsibility, and member engagement.
What is your campaign budget? It is minimal and I am funding my own campaign with no input from others.
Who are your campaign donors? How much have you contributed? I have no campaign donors. I have no intention to put myself in a conflict of interest or even a perceived conflict of interest. I wish to retain a truly independent voice on the council, should I be fortunate enough to earn the trust of the community to be elected to the position.
What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign? None.
Who will you direct your references to? I will allow the local community to direct their preferences as they wish.
gartens, schools, sporting associations, aged care and tree planting. I have recently completed the Community Leadership Program.
Why are you standing for election? Disillusioned with our current political system, I want to ensure that residents are heard and have the support they need.
What is your campaign budget? $500.
Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed? Self-funded with no campaign donations so I can be a true independent representation for our community.
What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign? Indirectly, I have been influenced by both my father and grandfather who were both Councillors for the City of Dandenong. Their legacy has fostered my dedication and commitment to the community.
Who will you direct your preferences to? I am not providing directions of preferences.
Chisholm duo’s gold
Chisholm TAFE in Dandenong has struck gold twice at an international awards event in Montego Bay, Jamaica.
Commercial cookery graduate Leela Subramanium and Chisholm’s community and social services manager Raelene Stockton took out the highest honours at the World Federation of Colleges and Polytechnics Awards (WFCPA).
A mature-age student in 2022, Subramanium is now a senior sous chef managing eight kitchen staff at Flinders Hotel on the Mornington Peninsula.
She took out the WFCPA’s Outstanding Student Achievement Award.
“Training at Chisholm built my confidence and gave me several life-changing opportunities,” Subramanium said.
“Previously, I was nervous and afraid to make a mistake, but TAFE provided a nurturing space for me to learn, free from judgement.”
She is now set for an internship at a Michelinstarred restaurant in Oslo, Norway. Her dream is to create a social enterprise restaurant that provides training for disadvantaged youth in remote areas.
Meanwhile, Stockton won the WFCPA Leadership in Diversity and Inclusion award.
She established Chisholm’s Family Violence Training Hub, initiated a Family Violence Community of Practice for trainers and led the design and delivery of Australia’s first accredited genderequity qualification.
Stockton has devoted her career to creating specialized education and training to address family violence, and contributed to Government policy.
Chisholm chief executive officer Stephen Varty said the pair’s international recognition was a “significant honour”.
Raelene Stockton won the leadership in diversity and inclusion category at the World Federation of Colleges and Polytechnics Awards in Montego Bay, Jamaica. (Supplied)
Leela Subramanium won the outstanding student achievement trophy at the World Federation of Colleges and Polytechnics Awards in Montego Bay, Jamaica.
FOCUS ON … SENIORS ENJOYING LIFE Walking to better health
You’ve heard of physical health and mental health, but have you ever come across the term ‘social health’? Social health is the wellbeing that we experience as a result of our connections with the people around us.
Social relationships matter at every age. In our younger years, activities like school and university bring us into frequent interaction with others.
But in our adult lives, work and family commitments can make spontaneous opportunities for connection harder to come by. And the cost is significant: social isolation has been linked to everything from mental illness and emotional distress to higher risks of dementia, stroke and heart disease. The good news that there are lots of simple ways to build social health — for example, taking up a new hobby like joining a Heart Foundation Walking group. Walking is a free, low-impact physical activity that offers a wealth of health benefits, including reducing heart disease risk and protecting against mental health issues like depression. Walking in a group gives you access to all these positive health impacts, as well as to the social benefits of spending time with others.
Heart Foundation Walking is one of Australia’s largest free walking programs, with hundreds of groups across Australia. Rosanne, one of the program’s many volunteer Walk Organisers, has seen the impacts of communal walking up close.
“You foster a sense of community among walkers, creating a supportive network of likeminded people,” she says.
That sense of community can lead to fun, friendship and a regular fitness habit, and it can also be protective against some of the challenges that life throws up along the way.
“The social involvement has gone a long way to improving my mental health,” says one walking group participant.
So, what are you waiting for? No matter your age, fitness level or location, you can start or join a Heart Foundation Walking group and enjoy the impacts of better physical, emotional and social health. If you’d rather walk independently or on your own schedule, sign up for a free Personal Walking Plan that’s developed by experts and tailored to your fitness level.
Find out more about Heart Foundation Walking today https://walking.heartfoundation.org.au/ Walking could be the key to social connection and to better health.
Night of pure entertainment
What has been described as Australia’s most Authentic Johnny Cash & June Carter Show is heading to Narre Warren, Friday 11 October for a night of pure entertainment.
Get Rhythm The Johnny Cash & June Carter Show, led by real life married couple, Mark and Joanne Caligiuri is set to bring their Live Concert Show to Bunjil Place with their full band, visual display, songs and storytelling of country music’s most famous couple, Johnny
Cash and June Carter.
Their onstage chemistry and connection with their band and audience has seen them travel all over Australia and were even recently interviewed on the Today Show for their uncanny resemblance and vocals to the late great Country Music stars.
They will take you on a musical journey, bring back some memories and create new ones with their incredible live theatre show.
The Johnny Cash & June Carter Show.
Think living today with tomorrow sorted
We know the decision to move into a retirement village isn’t always easy, but once you experience life at our first Australian retirement village with premium aged care, you’ll know you made the right call.
Once complete, we will offer a wide range of living options from spacious villas, cottages, assisted living apartments, through to our modern care home, so you can feel secure that if your needs change there will be care onsite. All while being surrounded by stunning resort-style facilities.*
“Everything was done to make us feel welcome and after only two weeks we feel like we belong. Nothing could have been done to make our transition better.” GERRY & FENNA, RESIDENTS AT SUMMERSET
Love the life you choose
Pop in or make an appointment at a time that suits you
Summerset Cranbourne North 98 Mannavue Boulevard, Cranbourne North 03 7068 5642 | cranbourne.sales@summerset.com.au
* Licence to occupy. Images are indicative. This insert is produced using a Chain of
the Summerset difference at Summerset Cranbourne North
Refreshingly different, reassuringly Summerset
We might be new to your neighbourhood, but as one of the most well-known retirement village operators in New Zealand, we’ve been around for a while. In fact, Summerset has been operating across the Tasman for more than 27 years.
It all started when Summerset founder John O’Sullivan set out to create a village that was spacious, modern, inviting and, as he puts it, “the sort of place that would be good enough for my Nana, and for other Nanas as well.”
In 1997, John bought a piece of land in Wanganui, on the west coast of New Zealand’s North Island. He transformed the site and built 14 retirement village units on the land. As luck would have it, the neighbouring piece of land happened to come up for sale soon after, allowing John to expand on his vision. With the extra space, he built more facilities, and eventually created what was to become the very first Summerset retirement village.
Since then, we’ve continued to grow, and we now have 38 villages throughout New Zealand, plus many more in development. On top of that, we have 7 sites of land in Australia, including our open village at Cranbourne North.
We might have grown a lot over the years, but our founding principles of kindness, respect, choice and community spirit have always remained the same. In fact, we’ve built on John’s philosophy to develop a way of living that we think is second to none.
Now, we’re excited to bring everything that Summerset promises to Australia in brand new villages, designed specifically for the over 70s. We’re truly proud of the many things that make Summerset special, including offering a range of homes so you can pick the style that suits you best, and a host of top-end facilities like an indoor pool, beauty salon and recreational bowling green, right on your doorstep.
There’s also our continuum of care, which means that should you require some extra support further down the track, you can access a range of care packages or change to a new level of care, without having to leave the village community you know and love. It’s a model that hasn’t been widely available in Australia until now, and we think it sets us apart from the rest.
Above all, we’re thrilled that more than 8,400 residents already call Summerset home, including our new residents at the recently opened Summerset Cranbourne North, here in Victoria. Come and visit us anytime to find out more about Summerset and view our beautiful show homes.
LOVE THE LIFE YOU CHOOSE summerset.com.au
The lady who inspired Summerset
John and Rose O’Sullivan
Proposed village centre at Cranbourne North (Artist impression only)
Kowan Ward candidates
KOWAN WARD
· Suburbs: Narre Warre South, Cranbourne North, Berwick
· Candidates: Christine Skrobo, Kasuni Mendis, Joby George, Gagan Bumrah, Shane Taylor, Bernard Brian Carr, Jawad Erfani, Raj Nayak
SHANE TAYLOR
Suburb of residence:
I live in Cranbourne North.
How long have you lived in Casey? I’ve been proud to call Casey home for over 10 years.
Political party (past and present): I’m running as an independent and have never been a member of any political party.
Occupation, business/employer name:
I am an Investigator for the Victorian Building Authority.
Property interests: I don’t have any commercial property interests, just my family home here in Cranbourne North.
Business interests: No business interests.
Three most important issues for your ward:
· Community Engagement
Ibelieveinacouncilthattrulylistensandactson what the community needs. I would work hard to be a transparent and responsive councillor, making sure Casey residents’ voices are heard and your concerns are addressed promptly. The community’s feedback will drive my decisions and actions.
· Greater Value for Money
We need to make sure every dollar of your rates is spent wisely. I would be dedicated to ensuring those funds are managed responsibly, cutting unnecessary costs, and investing in projects that offer Casey residents’ real value. This way, we ensure that your money is working hard for our community’s benefit.
· Improving Infrastructure
Our roads, parks, and footpaths need an upgrade. I’m committed to better road maintenance, effective traffic management, and creating more green spaces for everyone to enjoy. By
KASUNI MENDIS
Suburb of residence: Berwick
How long have you lived in Casey? Over 25 years
Political party (past and present): ALP member
Occupation, business/employer name: Council Officer at a local council in the western suburbs of Melbourne.
Property interests:Business interests:Three most important issues for your ward:
· Advocating for better roads and road networks is important for residents in the ward, as we are surrounded by some roads that urgently need upgrading. Residents also want to see core services delivered more efficiently, such as maintaining parks and reserves, so that we get better value for our rates. Finally, residents want to see better community cohesion, so that we can feel safe and secure in our neighborhoods.
· Describe your involvement in the local community: Over the last 9 years, I have been involved with various community groups including the Casey Multi-Faith Network and the Casey Residents and Ratepayers As-
BERNARD BRIAN CARR
Suburb of Residence: Narre Warren South in the Kowan Ward. I believe that candidates should stand in the Ward where they live, rather than choosing another Ward which they may see as an easier path to becoming a Councillor.
How Long Have You Lived in Casey: I have lived in Casey for the past six years. More importantly, because I live in the Ward, I will be in Ward every day over the next four years. Political Party (Past and Present):
I am not a member of a political party. I believe that Local Government works best if Councillors are not dictated to by outside political interests.
focusing on these areas, we can ease congestion, make our streets safer, and provide better recreational facilities for our community.
Describe your involvement in the local community: Over the years, I’ve been involved in local sporting clubs, community events, and volunteering. I’m passionate about fostering a strong sense of community and connection among residents.
Why are you standing for election? After four years of Casey being under administration, I’m running to bring accountability and transparency back to local government. I will ensure that our community’s needs are heard and more importantly addressed. I believe in Casey’s potential and by working together, we can build a thriving, connected, and safe community for all residents.
What is your campaign budget? I’m running a very modest campaign with a small budget. My focus is on connecting with the community, it’s more about engagement and getting to know what really matters to residents. Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed? My campaign is entirely self-funded. I’ve chosen not to accept any external donations. This allows me to campaign with integrity and remain focused on what really matters, serving the community without any outside influence. What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign? I haven’t sought advice from any current or former councillors or MPs. My focus is on listening to the community and making sure their concerns and ideas are at the center of this campaign. It’s important to me that their voices drive the decisions I’ll make if elected. Who will you direct your preferences to? At thispoint,Ihaven’tdecidedonanyspecificpreference deals. My focus is on connecting with residentsandensuringtheirconcernsareheard.
sociation, both of which I am now the President.Throughtheseroles,Ihavebeenastrong advocate for our community. I have served on various council advisory committees and reference groups including for Environment and Sustainability, and Access and Inclusion. I am also an L2P Mentor.
Why are you standing for election? I know that I can make a positive difference for our community with my background, knowledge and experience. There is more work to be done in our municipality to ensure that we build the community we deserve, and I know I have the right skills and vision to be a strong voice to make this happen.
What is your campaign budget? $8,000
Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed? Entirely self-funded
What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or exMPs have assisted or advised your campaign? I have a broad range of community members who have advised me on my campaign. Who will you direct your preferences to? I will direct my preferences to other candidates who have been active in the community, have experience, are running for the right reasons and want what is best for the community above their self-interest.
Occupation, Business/Employer Name: Barrister, Mediator and Expert Determiner (i.e. a person appointed to decide a dispute as an alternative to going to Court).
Property Interests: No property interests.
Business Interests: No business interests other than as part of my occupation.
Three Most Important Issues in Your Ward: Community safety, Cost of Living, and restoring the community’s trust in their elected representatives. Describe Your Involvement in the Local Community:
My involvement with the local community is through my work as a lawyer, and through pro
CHRISTINE SKROBO
Suburb of residence: Narre Warren South
How long have you lived in Casey?
I have lived in Casey for almost 20 years.
Political party (past and present): I am a member of and endorsed by the Libertarian Party. I was previously a member of the Greens.
Occupation, business/employer name: Student, part-time customer service representative, part-time volunteer.
Property interests: None
Business interests: None
Three most important issues for your ward:
· Core services are not being prioritised so ratepayers are not seeing value for money. Casey Council needs to focus on ensuring the roads are fixed, rubbish is collected and footpaths are maintained.
· Rates are too high and increase each year. The council must cut down on wasteful spending so ratepayers can keep more of their hard-earned money.
· Community engagement is poor and holding better council meetings is a clear way to improve this. That starts with having them at appropriate times, reading out all public questions and allowing residents to stand up and ask questions themselves if they
RAJ NAYAK
Suburb of residence:
Cranbourne North -Casey
How long have you lived in Casey?
13 Years
Political party (past and present):
· The Australian Greens (State Candidate -HOLT 2014 ) -2 Years
· ALP - 15 Years Occupation, business/employer name:
· OHS & Compliance Manager
· Manhari Metals ( Metal Recycler and Waste Management )
Property interests: Unique priority right now!!
Business interests: Science & Research , Education related , Training and Assessment programs ideas etc. Three most important issues for your ward: Output of voters, during my routine door knocking:
1. Crime (Stolen Cars, Number Plates etc)
2. Falling Trees / Some times council do not permit for dangerous trees to be taken off/ Property Damage due to tree/ More dry leafs around the front due to the council trees are very close to the house and they spend lots of time during the weekends etc.
3. More population and good schools do not have enough spaces. Few kindergartens issues and play ground insufficient equipments etc. My point of view;
1. All above & Kowan ward CLEANUP is required. ( Some areas are very smelly and lots of mess around).
2. Cost of living and affordability.
3. Lobby for continuing major roads and traffic improvements,
Describe your involvement in the local community:
bono legal work for those who cannot afford legal representation.
Why Are You Standing for Election: Casey City Council is the largest council in the State by population, and one of the largest in terms of its revenue. Over the 4 year term of the next Council, that revenue will approach, if not exceed, $2.5 Billion dollars. The elected Councillors are like a Board of Directors who oversee its expenditure.InorderfortheCounciltoachieveits most efficient and effective outcomes, the Councillors need to have the necessary training, experience and skills to fulfil their roles; learning ‘on the job’ is not enough. I am standing for Council because I am determined to see a Council that delivers first class outcomes not just for the electors in my Ward, but for all residents of the Council area. Properly maintained parks, gardens and roads,
wish to.
Describe your involvement in the local community:
I regularly attend the council meetings and keep informed about local issues. Why are you standing for election?
I have lived in Casey for almost my entire life. I went to school here, have worked here and genuinely care about our local community. I want to see the City of Casey become a more affordable area to live and a clear way to make that happen is to reduce the rates. I want ratepayers to feel like they are getting value for money when they look around the municipality at the roads, footpaths and open spaces. What is your campaign budget?
Up to $1000 of own money.
Who are your campaign donors?
None
How much have each contributed?
Not applicable
What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign?
I have had guidance and mentoring from Paul Barker, Councillor at Surf Coast Shire, and recently interned with David Limbrick MP. Who will you direct your preferences to? I will not be providing a how-to-vote card. I encourage voters to read what each candidate stands for and preference them based on who will best represent the community.
· Recently (Aud 2024) won the bravery award for the life saving effort from ST John Ambulance, Our community is happy about that effort and achievements.
· Continuously involved with Cranbourne North, Narre warren and Berwick various community groups.
· Visited many festivals, charity events, sports events throughout the year.
· Member of casey council group of survey and Improvement.
· Involved in NABO & NEXT DOOR Social networks as a Leader.
Why are you standing for election?
· I am standing to become stronger local voice and represent our local each common man to make sure during my time they are happy to be on this council with the improved cost of living,
· Reduced rates, high quality roads and streets etc. Also I would like to make sure their safety through wellbeing and crime prevention programs.
· I am committed to supporting and recognition of all ,regardless of race,faith, gender, sexuality and ability.
· I am standing Up for what’s Right!. What is your campaign budget?
$5000
Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed?
As of today no one, All from my pocket!. Spending this much amount to make sure I will reach people to be their voice. What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign?
· Wayne Smith , Sarah Carter ( Before her death- RIP)
· Lynette Keleher, zahra haydarbig , Jude Perera (Until Jan 2024 ) has guided me. etc. Who will you direct your preferences to? Kasuni Mendis
safe communities, proper planning outcomes and better health services are all achievable if our resources are efficiently and effectively managed.
What Is Your Campaign Budget: Hard to say at the moment, but I estimate that it will come out at around $10K.
Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed?
My campaign is self-funded. I don’t seek or accept donations. If elected, that will apply for the full 4 year term.
What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign? No one.
Who will you direct your preferences to?
I will make this decision after I have been able to hear from, and possibly speak to, the other candidates.
NEWS Big boost for Sikh
Not-for-profit organisation
Sikh Volunteers Australia has secured a new kitchen facility and three new vehicles from the state government.
Hastings MP Paul Mercurio, representing Carers and Volunteers MP Ros Spence, attended the opening of the kitchen facility and unveiling of the vehicles at the premises of Sikh Volunteers Australia in Langwarrin on Sunday 29 September.
The state government invested $500,000 to fund the purchase of two new vans, as well as the purchase and fit-out of a brand-new food truck which Sikh Volunteers Australia will use to deliver food relief and community outreach to Victorians during disasters.
WHAT’S ON
Cranbourne Senior Citizens Club
Welcoming new members - Community Social Day
- includes lunch, cuppa, games and chat. Fri 4th October, 11am-4pm. Cost $10.
Not a member? Doesn’t matter, come along and join the fun.
Weekly activities - Line Dancing Mon. 10am-12pm, New Vogue and Old Time Dance Tue. 1pm-3:30pm, Carpet Bowls Wed. & Sat. 11:30am-2:30pm, Bingo Thur. 11am-2pm, community days and bus trips. .
• For all enquiries or bookings contact Marilyn mobile 0432 107 590.
• Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook. com/groups/487808127399953
Merinda Park Learning & Community Centre Community Safety Day
Our free Community Safety Day is coming up on Saturday 5th October 10.30 am - 1.30 pm at Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre. Join us for fun, family activities, free food, stalls and more!
Enjoy a free sausage sizzle, popcorn and fairy floss, get up close with farm animals, have your face painted, meet Casey Dog who will be reading stories at 11am and 12.30 pm, loads of free fun activities for the children, click some pics with a cop or a firefighter, stalls selling a variety of goodies and much, much more!
You can also: ask questions and learn about upcoming classes, take a look at our classrooms and Drop in lounge, visit our children’s services area.
• 141-147 Endeavour Drive, Cranbourne North Berwick Pakenham Historical Society
Bellevue Orchards will speak of their 70-year history at the Annual meeting of the Berwick Pakenham Historical Society. This event will take place on Sunday October 6th at 1pm. Visitors welcome. Exit the Highway at James St. and turn right into the Service Rd. U3A Casey Expo for Seniors Seniors are invited to come along between 10am and 2pm to see what U3A Casey is about and what we have to offer.
As well as celebrating our 33 years in the City of Casey, we will also be showcasing our over 60 different activities for seniors.
This free to enter event will include active demonstrations and displays, including Walking Football, Tai Chi, Discussion Groups, Pickleball, Zumba, Music, Arts & Crafts, Fitness and much more.
It also contributed $250,000 for the new kitchen at Sikh Volunteers Australia’s base in Langwarrin.
Sikh Volunteers Australia is a volunteer-run organisation that provides free food for Victorians in need and supports communities in Victoria and nearby regions in times of crisis such as bushfires or floods.
In 2023, Sikh Volunteers Australia distributed more than 28,000 free meals from their vans, and they also provide free food, water and necessary items to a range of communities during disaster relief operations.
Join us for a free sausage sizzle, with scones and coffee also available for purchase.
• Friday 11 October, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm, Jack Rae Pavilion, Akoonah Park, 2 Cardinia Street, Berwick
• Entry cost Free, Enquiries:0410 415 409
Cranbourne Friends of the Royal Botanic Gardens
Plant sale dates: Saturday and Sunday 12th and 13th October, 2024
Times: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm on both days
Location: Royal Botanic Garden Victoria – Cranbourne (Cnr Ballarto Road and Botanic Drive, Cranbourne)
The plant sale will be held at the northern end of the Australian Garden. Parking and entry is available nearby (look for the large red banners). A large variety of Australian native plants will be available. A plant list will be available on our website approximately a week before the sale. EFTPOS is available.
Lynbrook Lake Lantern Festival
Banjo Paterson Reserve Lynbrook, Saturday 12th October, 4pm - 8:45pm 2024 WILL BE OUR BIGGEST LANTERN FESTIVAL
EVER
FREE ENTRY - all welcome!
Paint a lantern and display for all to see or release a floating lotus candle lantern onto the lake and watch in awe as hundreds of other people do the same. It’s quite the spectacle. Painting and floating lanterns for sale at the event $3-$5.
FREE childrens show with Charlie Sillypants, FREE Chris Morant Magic Circus show, FREE Mermaid Tariel by the lake delighting the young and young at heart. Stories of the sea and games.
U3A Cranbourne
U3A is a community group for anyone over 50 to learn, share and socialise. The group offers a large variety of activities at its new premises 20-22 Bowen Street, Cranbourne. Line dancing and ballroom dancing are held at Casey Basketball Stadium in Cranbourne. The group is a not for profit organisation and is supported by Casey Council. The membership fees of $50 per year give you access to as many classes as you wish. They have a wide variety of classes including extensive art classes with freestyle, general painting, calligraphy, quilling, card making and resin craft offered.
U3A is holding an open day on Friday 18th of October for anyone who would like to see classes in action.
Hastings MP Paul Mercurio said: “Many Victorians are doing it tough which makes investments like this so important.”
“I’m pleased that we have been able to help Sikh Volunteers Australia provide even more food relief for people in local communities.”
Carers and Volunteers MP Ros Spence said: “We are continuing to invest in organisations like Sikh Volunteers Australia who are helping Victorians in need.”
Hastings MP Paul Mercurio and CEO Jaswinder Singh at Sikh Volunteers Australia. (Supplied)
• Check out the classes on offer at our website www.u3acranbourne.org or call 0493 991 919 to learn more.
U3A Dandenong Expo
U3A Dandenong is holding an expo to celebrate its 30th anniversary.
Some Dandenong-based seniors’ clubs will be presenting what they offer. Some participation and/ or demonstrations are provided eg. Line dancing, exercise class, singing in English and Italian, games played like Scrabble, Mahjong and Rummy Kub, Art display of different mediums, a plant stall, this is just a small sample of displays.
Refreshments are available via the Dandenong Netball Assoc. canteen including a Devonshire Tea at a small cost.
Entry: Free
When: Friday 18 October, 2025
Venue: Gloria Pyke Netball Stadium, at Greaves Reserve, Dandenong Show Grounds, Bennett Street, Dandenong.
Time: between 10am and noon.
• For more information call – 0494 018 356 Cranbourne and District Garden Club
The club is turning 51 this year and still meets at the Cranbourne Public Hall from 1.15pm on the second Thursday of the month.
The club enjoys day trips and lunches, afternoon teas and friendship.
• For more information, contact Julie on 5995 1420 or Jean on 9704 6242.
Blind Bight Community Centre
Craft gift making for adults from 12.30pm to 2.30pm on Tuesdays.
Join in the craft gift making class and bring along your own craft to complete.
A variety of techniques and skills are shared including mosaics, macrame, sewing and painting at $3 per class.
Playgroup from 10.30am to noon on Wednesdays. The program provides fun play activities and craft for children at $5 per family.
Free knit and crochet from noon to 2pm on Wednesdays.
Line dancing from 1pm to 2pm on Wednesdays.
All ages, and abilities welcome at $10 per class.
• For more information and for bookings, visit www. blindbightcommunitycentre.com.au
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 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, and 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.
Balla Balla Community Centre
Health & Wellbeing classes held at Balla Balla Community Centre include pilates on Tuesday afternoons or Wednesday evenings, Zumba - Tuesday evenings and Yoga Thursday late afternoons or evenings. Enhance your fitness levels before Spring arrives.
• For more information, visit ballaballa.com.au
Combined Probus Club of Narre
Warren
The club welcomes men and women to join for fun and interesting activities.
The club hosts bowling, armchair travel, book clubs, walk and talk, happy snappers and cards. For enquiries, contact Heather at hsims14@gmail. com
Scrabble Club
Berwick Activities Club has started a Scrabble Club recently and it runs every Friday from 1pm to 3.30pm. It will be both competitive and social on a one-to-one 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.
Motorcycle deaths triple
Fatal motorcycle crashes across Cardinia, Greater Dandenong and Casey have tripled compared to this time last year, and police are pleading with riders and drivers to take extra care.
Nine riders have lost their lives on local roads, compared to three as of 23 September 2023. This area has seen more fatal crashes involving motorcyclists than any other location in Victoria in 2024.
The overwhelming majority of riders who lost their lives were men aged between 21 and 53:
· 10 February: A 53-year-old female rider and a vehicle collided head-on along Pakenham Road, Pakenham Upper.
· 24 March: A 32-year-old male rider was travelling on Linsel Boulevard, when he was struck by a car at the Duce Street intersection.
· 5 April: A 53-year-old male rider was hit by a car while turning from the South Gippsland Highway onto Henry Lawson Drive in Lynbrook.
· 27 May: A 23-year-old male rider was struck by a turning vehicle at the intersection of Chandler Road and Elmbank Drive, Keysborough.
· 16 July: A 25-year-old male rider was struck at the intersection of Chandler Road and Stackpool Street, Noble Park.
· 6 August: A 23-year-old male rider veered off Beaconsfield-Emerald Road, Emerald, and struck a tree.
· 18 August: A 34-year-old male rider was citybound when he lost control and struck wire barriers along Soldiers Road, Gembrook.
· 14 September: A 23-year-old male rider and a vehicle collided head-on along Soldiers Road, Gembrook.
· 28 June: A 21-year-old male rider died following a head-on collision with a truck on GembrookLaunching Place Road, Gembrook. (This death will be taken off the lives lost tally).
Four of the crashes occurred on Saturdays.
Early investigations into the crashes have involved contributing factors such as unlicensed
riding, inexperience, inappropriate or excessive speed, failing to wear approved safety equipment, and drivers failing to give way to riders.
To combat the alarming increase in motorcycle trauma, local Highway Patrol officers are ramping up enforcement efforts.
Operation Blackwire – which aims to increase awareness around motorcyclist safety – commenced late last month in response to the rise, and will continue as the weather warms up.
Police are targeting unlicenced riders, unroadworthy motorcycles, excessive speeds, and riders failing to wear protective equipment or taking unnecessary risks, like overtaking when
Expressions of interest are being sought from the community for membership of the Committee of Management that will manage the Akoonah Park Reserve – Berwick Showgrounds. Applications are being sought from the general public with an interest in managing the reserves.
The Committee is responsible for the day-to-day management of the reserves including the weekly Community Market and the annual Berwick and District Agricultural and Horticultural Show. The reserve is also extremely popular throughout the year, housing a football club, a Pony Club, Scout Group and other sporting and social events as well as a much-used public open space for local and regional schools.
The Akoonah Park Reserve – Berwick Showgrounds is a valued community asset and popular with the local community.
The Committee of Management will combine public representatives and Berwick Agricultural Society representatives to ensure a diverse range of skills exist to best manage the reserve for the enjoyment of all. This is a unique opportunity to become actively involved in the management
Key attributes being sought include interest and enthusiasm in the local environment, a an approach to the task that includes maximising community involvement and participation.
and needs and administration
forms are available from the Department Energy, Environment and Climate Action, from Jasmine Collard, property.portphillip@deeca.vic.gov.au
All Expressions of Interest are to be emailed to: property.portphillip@deeca.vic.gov.au by close of business Friday 11th October 2024.
www.deeca.vic.gov.au
it’s unsafe to do so.
Police will also be on the lookout for motorists who engage in behaviours that put motorcyclists at risk, such as speed, distraction, and failing to give way.
“This area has experienced more fatal motorcycle crashes than any other location in Victoria this year. That is not something we want to be known for,” said Specialist Investigation and Support Inspector Rodney Maroney:
“One death on our roads is too many, and already this year, we’ve had to tell the families of nine riders that their loved one won’t be coming home.
“You could be the world’s best rider, but that doesn’t mean drivers will always see you.
“Increase your chances of being seen by wearing a hi-vis vest over your clothes, and invest in high-quality protective gear that could make the difference between life and death.
“We are also pleading with motorists to take extra care and always be on the lookout for other road users.
“Nine times out of ten, a rider will always come off second best when up against a car –please play your part in helping to keep everyone safe on our roads.”
Fatal motorcycle crashes across Cardinia, Greater Dandenong and Casey have tripled compared to this time last year. (File)
Juniors take a swing
Budding baseballers swung into a Come & Try Day at Police Paddocks Reserve, Endeavour Hills on Sunday 29 September. Event host South East Warriors Baseball Club was seeking to entice more recruits ahead of the 13 October juniors season opener.
Welcome to Melbourne
More than a hundred young people from multicultural communities across Melbourne’s south-east gathered at the weekend for the ‘Welcome to Melbourne Soccer Tournament’.
The tournament, staged by migrant and refugee settlement agency AMES Australia and hosted by the Barton United Football Club at its ground in Cranbourne West, saw a dozen men’s and women’s teams, comprised of about 100 players, compete.
The action was witnessed by around 80 spectators.
The victors in the men’s section were the ‘Afghan Eagles’ team and ‘Barton United’ in the women’s section.
Trophies were awarded by Federal and State MP’s Cassandra Fernando, and Lee Tarlamis.
Ms Fernando, the first Sri Lankan-born member of the federal parliament, told the gathering that multiculturalism made south-east Melbourne a vibrant and rich community.
“My electorate is one of the most diverse in Australia and I’m proud of the way our commu-
nity is welcoming and supportive of newcomers.“
AMES Australia chief executive officer Cath Scarth the tournament was aimed at building connections between diverse communities and individuals in Melbourne.
“The tournament is all about welcoming newly emerging communities and giving young people the opportunity to connect with people from other cultures and the mainstream community, while also building their confidence and developing their skills.“
The event was part of AMES’ Engage! Program which coordinates and delivers programs and events aimed at young CALD individuals throughout the year.
The program targets three areas: youth participation, youth development and youth celebration.
The Victorian Government-funded initiative is designed to provide young people with access to programs and activities to help build their confidence and help them meet their personalised goals and ambitions.
Welcome to Melbourne Soccer Tournament.
‘Afghan Eagles’ men’s team won the tournament.
Gideon hit the ball well during the tryout session. (Gary Sissons: 433887)
Ashton tees off during the Come & Try event. (Gary Sissons: 433887)
Emmanuel takes a hit in the nets due to the wet weather. (Gary Sissons: 433887)
Emerging CCCA gun ready for Vic Premier Cricket
By Jonty Ralphsmith
It’s been a busy preseason for Devon Meadows junior Will Halton.
The young ‘keeper-batter was one of 39 players named in Cricket Victoria’s under-19 male emerging players squad in July and has made the leap to Vic Premier Cricket club Casey-South Melbourne.
Halton has trained at Junction Oval twice per week during preseason under the tutelage of Jon Holland, Nick Speak and Xavier Crone, who have more than 250 first class matches under their belt collectively.
It follows the teenager plundering more than 400 runs in each of his first two seasons of First XI cricket for Devon Meadows.
“It’s probably been my most full-on preseason so I’ll be ready to go in round one,” Halton said.
“It has been so tough - they’re quicker, smarter and more consistent so that’s been good.
“Being around them has exposed me to how skilled players go about their crafts and I try to pick up what I can.
“I’ve never been that challenged before, I’ve always felt confident in my game.
“I’m playing with and against quality cricketers so it’s stressful at times but I’ve got so much out of the coaching which has been unreal.
“You can’t get away with not being at your best - tiny mistake are amplified.”
Halton has been a regular in representative sides in recent years, notably selected in the Casey Cardinia Cricket Association’s Country Week squad last season.
Backing the skillset which has long had others earmarking big things for the teenager has been a challenge.
“The biggest gap going from junior (representative cricket) and beyond is that everyone has the shots, but it’s how you think during it and before,” he said.
“The hardest thing about Country Week for me was mental.
“I’ve got these big adults who have played for around 10-20 years, I haven’t even been alive that long.
“It was interesting to see how I held up against strong opposition when there was no limit on age - there is a lot of quality smart cricketers so it was a challenge I really enjoyed.
“For the most part I thought I managed to keep up with them but it was good to figure out how to work around things when I’m not feeling
New Casey Cardinia Cricket Association leadership heralds a modern approach
By Jonty Ralphsmith
The Casey Cardinia Cricket Association (CCCA) has made clear its intention to work with clubs for the 2024-25 season.
It follows a relationship breakdown between the CCCA board and member clubs, which have felt at times in recent years that the league has not been receptive of their ideas.
Ben Knowles has replaced Rob Hansen as CCCA president and emphasised to this masthead in August the direction he was hoping to take the league.
“The trust has definitely waivered over the last couple of years, so that’s the number-one thing, winning that back, and then putting important pillars in place for the future,” Knowles said.
“At the end of the day, we’re here for the clubs.
“The clubs elected to make this change because they were worried about the future of the association.
“They wanted change, they wanted to modernise it; and now I’m putting it back on them.
“The clubs got what they wanted, but where are we going from here?
“The ball is now firmly in the court of the clubs; we now have the opportunity to build an association together that is attractive to other clubs throughout Casey and Cardinia.“
Vice-president Ben Parrot echoed a similar sentiment at the CCCA season launch in midSeptember, which was attended by 10 member clubs.
“We want the clubs to know we’re there to work for them; we’re not working as a board deciding for them, we are working for the clubs.
“Decisions aren’t made by the board, it’s driven by the clubs so we at no stage make decisions for them.
“They make decisions and we verify that; where I think for a long time the shoe was on the other foot.
“We want to build that trust again among the clubs.
“I think the relationship between all the clubs has never been as strong as what it is now and we’re seeing clubs supporting one another and it’s the way it should have been a long way before this but we finally got there so we will continue driving that.”
Highlighting the increasing trust, the CCCA committee has added two members – Devon Meadows president Mick Floyd and umpire David Huntington – due to demand.
Parrot and Knowles have both also highlighted the increased focus on female cricket, with the vice-president also impressed with the clubs working together to drive junior participation in the region.
Another noteworthy change to the CCCA in 2024-25 is the addition of an eighth team, Melbourne Sixers, to the second-flight District competition, providing each club with the opportunity to play 14 games, rather than 12 with two byes, as happened last season.
Melbourne Sixers came fifth in the B Grade competition in 2023-24 and lost the D Grade semi final after finishing the season in second place.
The Sixers will have four teams this season and are based at Barton Reserve, Cranbourne West.
The CCCA kicks off this Saturday.
as confident and when a player might be better than me.”
Those around Devon Meadows are in awe at the reliability of Halton, who regularly keeps up to the stumps to the Panthers’ quicks.
The transition to turf cricket, however, has highlighted minor technical glitches in Halton’s keeping which has been the focus of his preseason, alongside batting with intent.
Having opened the batting with run-scoring machine Lucas Ligt for the past two seasons, the pressure has naturally been on opposition bowlers, which has allowed Halton to bat his way, but he understands the importance of expanding his game.
“In the shorter formats it has been boundary or dot for me,” Halton noted.
“I have focussed on looking too pretty and playing the right shots – I’m trying to work out how to face the least amount of balls as possible and get up the other end.
“In the middle overs I can pin myself down and I just want to keep scoring and accelerate my strike rate.”
The Swannies’ season starts against Frankston-Peninsula on Saturday, with Halton likely to make his debut in the Third XI.
“I just want to perform the best I can and push up the grades as quickly as I can because my goal will be eventually to play ones for Casey; but baby steps, I have to perform well in the (lower grades) before I even think about that,” Halton said.
“I am aiming big but I’m not trying to get too ahead of myself.”
Crees laps up praise
By Marcus Uhe
The glint reflecting from Dayna Crees’ Paralympic Bronze Medal did not keep fans and members of the Casey Cardinia Athletics Club away from Casey Fields on Friday afternoon.
Hundreds turned out to celebrate Crees’ achievements at the recent Paris Games, in which the Berwick athlete won Bronze in the Women’s Javelin Throw F34 category in her first games experience.
The dual-sport athlete who lives with Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia will remember the events of September 1 2024 for the rest of her life, when she claimed her first Paralympic Medal at just 22-years-old.
Throwing a personal best distance of 17.65 metres while seated, Crees shocked even herself to finish on the podium behind two Chinese athletes, who took first and second place.
Having refined her skills at Casey Fields, Crees returned to the venue on Friday to celebrate with family, friends and club members, along with her medal, and the javelin that secured it.
The CCCA has put the pillars in place for a positive season. (Stewart Chambers: 393920).
Dayna Crees with her Bronze medal and javelin. (Ljubica Vrankovic: 434265)
Will Halton has had a big preseason. (Jonty Ralphsmith: 435087).
A classic drive from the youngster. (Stewart Chambers: 315384)
It’s time for big guns to fire
Dust off the whites and dig out the spikes – cricket season is back!
The Dandenong District Cricket Association season begins this weekend with one-day games slated across Turf 1, 2 and 3.
Marcus Uhe looks at each team in Turf 1.
PREDICTED LADDER
· Springvale South
· Buckley Ridges
· Berwick
· Hallam Kalora Park
· Narre South
· Beaconsfield
· Dandenong West
· North Dandenong
BEACONSFIELD
LAST SEASON: 7th
COMING: Dylan Vanderwert (Dandenong), Andrey Fernando (Dandenong), Connor Nel (South Africa), Susantha Pradeep (St Mary’s)
GOING: Mark Cooper (Cardinia), Trishane de Silva (Cardinia), Yohan Arumadura (Cardinia)
STAYING: Mitch Tielen, Tyler Clark, Joel Matthews, Ben Hammond, Riley Clark, Jake Cutting, Michael Dunstan, Ashan Madushanka
PLAYERS TO WATCH: Andrey Fernando, Connor Nel, Susantha Pradeep.
Staying in Turf 1 was a massive achievement for Beaconsfield last summer, but it’s time to see if they’re good enough to avoid simply not falling down the grades.
Two wins in the first four rounds, and a promising start with the ball in a tricky defence against Buckley Ridges in the then-abandoned round three contest showed signs of promise and set the scene to become a genuine banana peel opponent for teams, should they not show the dignified level of respect to the Turf 2 premiers.
A winless second half of the season, however, saw the promising start wasted away in disappointing fashion as the rigours of Turf 1 cricket became too much to withstand.
Too much responsibility fell to Mark Cooper, who was head-and-shoulders above his nearest teammate for runs scored with 463.
No bowler, meanwhile, took more than 20 wickets, with the second-highest wicket taker in Trishane de Silva joining Cooper in departing the club, along with all-rounder Yohan Arumadura –three of their top five with the ball, having taken 43 per cent of total wickets last summer.
That amount of talent with the ball going out the door will put a premium on the Tigers’ ability to bat for long periods and show the required patience at the wicket.
Mick Cronin will coach the Tigers this summer and Susantha Pradeep will captain the side, having stunned the Turf 1 community to reach the podium in last summer’s Wookey Medal count.
Pradeep hit 432 runs at 36 and took 20 wickets as one of the competition’s best all-rounders last summer and his leadership at Beaconsfield will be invaluable in the wake of Cooper’s departure.
A pair of former Dandenong Panthers in Andrey Fernando and Dylan Vanderwert will bolster the top order, and the explosive Connor Nel will offer a dynamic option in the middle order.
Fernando played 150 games for the Panthers and hit 3600 runs in his tenure at Shepley Oval and his experience at higher levels will be vital.
If the Tigers wish to remain in the top Turf competition, they’ll need to put all the lessons learned last summer into practice.
SPRINGVALE SOUTH
LAST SEASON: Runner-up
COMING: Nick Boland (Prahran)
GOING: Yoshan Kumara
STAYING: Mitch Forysth, Paul Hill, Jarryd Straker, Jordan Mackenzie, Josh Dowling, Ryan Quirk, Jackson Sketcher, Blade Baxter, Jordan Wyatt, Cam Forsyth
PLAYERS TO WATCH: Jackson Sketcher, Ryan Quirk, Jordan Wyatt
Expect Springvale South to remain in contention once again, playing with the added carrot of redemption after last season’s grand final loss.
The chance to make history as the first DDCA side to win three Turf 1 premierships in a row eluded the Bloods at the end of last summer when long-time rivals Buckley Ridges ground out a famous win at Arch Brown Reserve to end their run of dominance on the competition.
Having quelled Wookey Medal winner Jordan Wyatt with the bat, the remainder of the Bloods’
DANDENONG DISTRICT CRICKET ASSOCIATION TURF 1 SEASON PREVIEW
top order failed to fire, and ultimately fell 64 runs short.
Having not lost until a stunning chase from the Bucks in round 12 last season, there’s no doubt it was an opportunity squandered.
But there’s room for improvement at the Bloods, with opening batter Ryan Quirk never regaining his brilliance from the previous season in which he nearly won the Wookey Medal, and Cam Forsyth barely taking the field due to travel commitments and injury.
Forsyth will act as almost a new recruit for Springvale South, and will take pressure off Quirk by assuming the captaincy duties.
Nick Boland, meanwhile, brings years of experience from Prahran in Victorian Premier Cricket, and will be a daunting prospect for other Turf 1 sides to combat.
Between he and Jarryd Straker, the Bloods could arguably lay claim to the two best bowlers in the seam and spinning departments.
So much quality remains at the Bloods that will propel them to contention status once again, and with redemption on the mind, they’ll be one of the teams to beat again this summer.
BUCKLEY RIDGES
LAST SEASON: Premiers of Turf 1
COMING: Prav Chahal (England), Dale Tormey (Pakenham)
GOING: -
STAYING: Michael Davies, Ben Wright, Jayson Hobbs, Ishan Jayaratne, Roshane Silva
PLAYERS TO WATCH: Dale Tormey, Ishan Jayaratne, Jake Cronin
Buckley Ridges is set to be a force to be reckoned with once again, with the defending premiers welcoming every member of the premiership-winning senior side back to Park Oval for another shot at glory.
The Bucks survived a mid-season stumble to storm home to a historic and long-awaited Turf 1 premiership last summer, finally overcoming their nemesis in Springvale South on the final day of the season at Berwick’s Arch Brown Reserve.
Over the off-season, they welcomed one of the best cricketers from the Casey Cardinia Cricket Association, in multiple-time Terry Stephenson medal winner Dale Tormey, and English allrounder Prav Chahal, creating an embarrassment of riches, and making for an enviable selection squeeze at Park Oval.
Tormey, Roshane Silva and Ben Wright will offer one of the competition’s premier middle order combinations, and present a daunting prospect
for teams coming to Park Oval.
Master coach Manjula Munasinghe, however, knows that they cannot simply expect to be a contender again, stressing the importance of hard work.
A perennial contender in recent years, the target on their back has never been bigger, now as the defending champions.
“We need to be better than last year,” he said.
“Everyone will compete hard with us.
“To get into the four is our key at this stage and following the process is the most important part.”
NARRE SOUTH
LAST SEASON: 3rd
COMING: Morteza Ali (Cardinia), Zach Wilson (England), Liam Sheehan (Dandenong), Joel Zietsman
GOING: Jawed Hussaini (HSD), Alex Cruickshank (Bentleigh), Callum Nicholls (England), Harsha de Silva
STAYING: Kyle Hardy, Jeevan Mendis, Callan Tout, Riley McDonald, Vineth Jayasuriya
PLAYERS TO WATCH: Jeevan Mendis, Callan Tout, Morteza Ali
The Lions rocketed up the Turf 1 ladder last season with a stunning return to form in the back
half of last summer.
The Lions only lost to Buckley Ridges after the Christmas break – twice – and conquered Hallam Kalora Park in a thrilling elimination final by two runs.
Their run of winning form included tense wins over Springvale South and Berwick, with belief building week-on-week that they could do something special come the finals.
Reaching the second week has set the benchmark, but a considerable amount of change has swept through the Lions’ den over winter.
Overseas pair Alex Cruickshank, who made the Turf 1 Team of the Year and was one of the competition’s leading quick bowlers, and talented young batter Callum Nicholls, have both chosen to not return to the club for another summer, and Jawed Hussaini has moved to HSD to play in Turf 2.
Jeevan Mendis will replace Matthew Brooks as senior coach and Kyle Hardy as captain, shouldering both roles in his attempts to work his way up the coaching ladder.
The 2022/23 Wookey Medal winner will be another handful this summer, and paired with Morteza Ali, the Lions will have two Wookey Medal winners in their midst.
Susantha Pradeep (bowling) has a big job on his hands as captain of Beaconsfield. (311011)
Berwick’s Jake Hancock is set for another big summer with the bat. (Rob Carew: 374101)
DDCA
CRICKET
Callan Tout was one of the recruits of the summer last season and led the attack beautifully with Cruickshank, taking 31 wickets at 19 and consistently giving opposition batters trouble.
The challenge for Mendis will be harnessing last season’s momentum into a new year when the middle of the table will be even more congested than last summer.
Berwick look likely to improve, Hallam Kalora Park remain strong and Buckley Ridges and Springvale South remain at the top of the pecking order.
Young talents Riley McDonald (wicketkeeper) and Vinnie Jayasuriya will need to step forward to strengthen the batting with Nicholls and Harsha de Silva both departing.
Falling just two wickets shy of continuing their magical run to the grand final, there’s no doubt that the heartbreak felt on that hot March evening at Park Oval will fuel the Lions in their quest to go one better.
They’ll be playing with a target on their back after last summer’s efforts, and demand to be taken seriously in 2024/25.
“We carried that on last year and went about our business as we usually do, then with the results we started getting, it gives the team even more confidence that we can be in those positions and we can push those top teams in those spots,” outgoing captain Kyle Hardy said.
“Really it’s just about carrying on from last year, carrying on with the confidence that we gained from what we had.”
BERWICK
LAST SEASON: 5th
COMING: James Trodd (England), Michael Wallace (Casey South Melbourne), Luke Clarke (Narre Warren)
GOING: Harkawal Singh (Silverton)
STAYING: Jake Hancock, Jarrod Goodes, Corey Bevan, Jordan Cleland, Matthew Hague, Toby Wills, Jarryd Wills, Lachlan Brown
PLAYERS TO WATCH: Jarryd Wills, Michael Wallace, James Trodd
Bouncing back from a poor 2022/23 season in which they really fell off the perch, Berwick looked set to return to finals action last summer before completely falling away in the home stretch.
Three losses to end the year saw them fall from second to fifth in a matter of weeks, and the chance to contend for a premiership evaded them in dramatic fashion.
The most frustrating part, however, is that they only had themselves to blame.
They had Buckley Ridges on toast in round 13, at 1/196 in the first innings at Park Oval, before succumbing for just 221 in the 54th over of the innings.
The home side had no trouble chasing the target, making the final week of the year must-win against Springvale South.
The juggernaut Bloods survived a stumble in the middle of the innings before reaching a defendable total with a late-innings whirl, and protected their total to send the Bears packing.
At times, Berwick looked like the closest challenger to Springvale South last summer, but completely lost their way late in the year.
Needing a strike bowler to support Jarrod Goodes, Lachlan Brown and Corey Bevan with the ball, the Bears are hoping that Englishman James Trodd can provide that assistance and become the focal point of the attack.
Michael Wallace, meanwhile, will challenge for the most runs in the competition, having returned to his junior club after a lengthy tenure with Casey South Melbourne.
With his arrival, the Bears look set to be particularly formidable in two-day games, as he and Hancock will establish long, fruitful partnerships at the crease to the dismay of bowling attacks.
Breaking free from the middle-table logjam will be critical if the Bears are to make it back to the top four.
Firmly entrenched in that bracket to begin the year, they’ll need to bank wins against the lower ranked sides – something they achieved last summer – and hold their own against the stronger sides.
They failed to beat Springvale South twice, lost the only completed game against Buckley Ridges and Hallam Kalora Park, and split their two meetings with Narre South, showing a gap between them and the competition’s elite.
“We’re going to be looking to bat deep as a group,” coach Brad James said.
“Jarrod (Goodes) will bring up the tail and he can definitely bat.
“Trodd is a hard-hitting left-hander who will give us a point of difference which we probably haven’t had in the back half of our innings.
“We’ve identified a couple of weaknesses and
we’ve planned to deal with that side of things.
“We definitely let a few prime opportunities slip through our fingers, which we obviously don’t get back again.
“I don’t think you’ll see us fade this year.”
with that side of things.
“We definitely let a few prime opportunities slip through our fingers, which we obviously don’t get back again.
“I don’t think you’ll see us fade this year.”
HALLAM KALORA PARK
LAST SEASON: 4th
COMING: Ryan Hillard, Damith Perera (Greenvale), Austin Fardell (Fitzroy-Doncaster)
GOING: Charith Keerthsigne (North Dandenong), Matt Cox (retired), Ciaron Connolly (Lyndale)
STAYING: William Whyte, Leigh Booth, Jordan Hammond, Mahela Udawatte, Ben Hillard, Lee Brown, Lauchlan Gregson
PLAYERS TO WATCH: Jordan Hammond, Mahela Udewatte, Damith Perera
The Hawks are set to embark on somewhat of a regeneration this season, with a pair of premiership-winning veterans making way for some younger talent.
With Matt Cox dropping the playing component from his title of player-coach and Ciaron Connolly returning to his junior club of Lyndale, the Hawks have filled their vacancies with fresh talent.
27-year-old Damith Perera will fill Connolly’s void with the gloves, having been a mainstay in the Kangaroos’ line-up for much of last season and coming into his prime as a cricketer.
Austin Fardell, meanwhile, returns to Hallam after a year of playing Fourth XI cricket at FitzroyDoncaster last summer, where he made 540 runs at 36 with two hundreds.
Jordan Hammond remains one of the best cricketers in the competition and will captain the Hawks again this summer, but he needs more support around him with both bat and ball.
Mahela Udawatte, meanwhile, can rip games from sides like few in the competition, and no one who was at Hallam for the elimination final will forget the stunning innings he played to nearly drag his side over the line from nowhere against Narre South.
These two will be the biggest names on the opposition whiteboard when sides plan for the Hawks, with Udawatte’s wicket of particular significance.
Leigh Booth remains a run machine but dipped last summer from his previous highs, and it’s hoped that Perera will live up to his end of the bargain.
Lee Brown will shoulder the spinning burden with Charith Keerthsigne making the switch to North Dandenong, required to bowl long overs to spell the rest of the attack.
Hallam Kalora Park finds itself at somewhat of a crossroads this summer, having failed to break into the top two for two years running now.
They got the better of Buckley Ridges in a significant two-day win at home, but was humiliated by Springvale South at Alex Nelson Reserve in a terrible performance in coloured clothing in the first contest after the Christmas break that really set them back.
Expect them to be around the mark again as a side generally hard to beat at home, but whether they can take the next step will be the biggest question hanging over Hawk heads.
NORTH DANDENONG
LAST SEASON: 6th
COMING: Charith Keerthsinghe (Hallam Kalora Park), Azah Mahmood, Moit Mandara (Cranbourne Meadows) Mohammad Kier, Ghairat Mangal
GOING: Clayton McCartney, Jawid Khan (Dandenong), Sudes Khan (Dandenong), Jurgen Anderson, Syed Shah
STAYING: Syed Mehmood, Sushant Gupta, Zarak Aseel
PLAYERS TO WATCH: Sushant Gupta, Moit Mandara, Charith Keerthsinghe
New North Dandenong Cricket Club coach Lee Vowles is endeavouring to instill patience amongst the Maroons in his first season at the helm during the upcoming summer.
Respecting the longer form of the game was a virtue that previous coach David Bell battled to instill in his players, many of them enigmatic and better suited to the shorter formats of the game - the past two summers saw the Maroons reach the semi-finals of the DDCA’s T20 competition, and in 2022/23 they broke a long-standing finals drought, returning to the top four in a season of one-day contests.
Last summer, three of their four wins came in one-day matches, with ugly losses to St Mary’s and Hallam Kalora Park in two-day games late in the campaign seeing them waste a promising start to the summer.
In studying last season’s efforts, Vowles felt wayward bowling performances and losing wickets in clumps played major roles in the side’s downfall after the Christmas break, when they lost five of their last six matches.
It’s a major area of focus ahead of round one this weekend, when they’ll welcome Narre South to Lois Twohig Reserve.
“Patience is hanging around and discipline; if you don’t have discipline you’ll never win games and you’ll never win anything,” he said.
“It’s the same with the ball - if you’re not bowling in the right areas, you’re going to get knocked around and you’re going to suffer the consequences from it.
“This is where we’re trying to change the methods of the mental side of it all; stick around, stay at your crease, take your time, (because) you’ve got 80 overs.
“If you’re having a bat and you come off with 60, and you’ve been there for 80 overs, you’ve set a platform for your side.”
Should the Maroons remain in Turf 1, Vowles will have his work cut out for him, with a pair of key absences set to dramatically alter the line-up.
Last season’s Wookey Medal runner-up Jawid Khan, and former captain Clayton McCartney, both departed in the offseason, leaving significant holes on the leadership front and in both major disciplines.
Those absences, plus Bell’s departure as coach, is a lot for the new coach to whether, but he’s not shying away from the task, and is putting the onus on those remaining to fill the voids.
Batter Syed Mehmood and quick, Sushant Gupta return from last season, with offspinner
Charith Keerthisinghe making the switch from fellow Turf 1 side, Hallam Kalora Park.
“Over the years they’ve had Jawid there, who’s a very good batter as we know,” Vowles said.
“Now with him gone, the main man is gone, so the rest have all got to step up.
“It’s something that now, it’s up to the other boys, they’ve got to step up and go upwards, as far as we can go.
“Every single person in that 11 will have a role to do and will know what their role will be.”
DANDENONG WEST
LAST SEASON: Premiers of Turf 2 COMING: Don Pulukkuttiarachchi
GOING:STAYING: Nathan Power, Matthew Collett, Shaun Weir, Bradley Sheean, Venuk Hemachandra, Anthony Brannan, Nuwan Kulasekara, Adam Reid, Riley Siwes, Bailey Howarth, Malinga Bandara PLAYERS TO WATCH: Nuwan Kulasekara, Venuk Hemachandra, Riley Siwes
Dandenong West has absolutely no intention of being one-season wonders in the world of Turf 1 cricket.
Having gone back-to-back in the previous two seasons in a stunning ascension up the DDCA grades, the Bulls are ready to grab the competition by the horns and continue to the charge to even more success.
With former internationals in Nuwan Kulasekara and Malinga Bandara in the bowling attack, they shape as one of the best-equipped sides to hold their own in Turf 1 in recent years.
The pair can hold their own against any bowling combination in the competition and will have even the strongest of batting line-ups on edge, from Berwick, to Springvale South and Buckley Ridges.
Every member from last summer’s Turf 2 premiership team has returned for a shot at turf 1 cricket, and Don Pulukkuttiarachchi will strengthen the top order.
A side with a veteran core helping to propel them to success in recent years, the likes of Shaun Weir and captain-coach Anthony Brannan will be critical in ensuring the Bulls aren’t overawed at the next level.
Legspinner Riley Siwes, brings Turf 1 experience despite being a younger member of the squad, and will take captain-coaching roles early in the piece with Brannan unavailable.
Reaching Turf 1 was always the long term plan for the Bulls, eager to avoid being stuck in the lower grades for as long as possible.
Part one of the mission is complete in resounding fashion – now it’s time to validate their success by remaining in Turf 1 long term.
“It presents a new challenge for us,” Brannan said.
“We’re under no illusions that it’s going to be hard work and we’re going to have to be at our best to beat sides, but we can’t wait to play Buckley (Ridges) early on.
“We get Buckley (Ridges), Springvale South and Berwick in the first three but I’m really looking forward to it.
“We want to take those sides on.
“We’re going to go into every game thinking we can win and we’re going to play a brand of cricket that hopefully stacks up.”
Cameron Forsyth will captain Springvale South this summer. (Rob Carew: 391023)
