at
as part of the annual Celebrate Doveton festival on Friday 4 October. Among the magician’s tricks was a mysterious Bag of Nothing - the opposite to the festival’s free, fun-loaded program including an animal farm, reptiles, VR demonstration and goodie bags.
More pictures, turn to page 14
By Ethan Benedicto
As mailing for the ballots officially began on Monday 7 October, candidates have opened up on their campaign expenditures, where Kalora Ward sees a range between $2000 and $15,000 spent on leaflets, pamphlets, posters and other related costs.
Other wards see a similar range, with Jane Foreman from Casuarina allocating $1500, Stephen Matulec from Grevillea with roughly $2000, and with Anthony Dissanayake from Dillwynia with roughly $5000.
All candidates who have responded to the Star News questionnaire have declared themselves to be self-funded, with Jafri Katagara Luwanga, from Kalora, expressing the struggles of a year-long campaign and its costs, which have since peaked at $15,000.
He spoke on how it felt almost detrimental for money’s involvement in success, baring those concerns alongside alleged dummy candidates throughout all 12 wards.
Returning to spending, Stefan Koomen from Waratah has allocated $5000 for his campaign, Mariam Qaliqy from Casuarina with a rough estimate of $2000, and Kushal Shah from Akoonah with $4000.
Turn to page 9 for the full story
Other candidates in Kalora, such as Damien Sawyer acknowledged the concerns, addressing his and two other candidates’ preferences but is putting greater scrutinisation on candidates who are politically aligned and have chosen not to disclose it.
By Ethan Benedicto
A big-name award always tastes as sweet as it comes, especially if it involves three first places and one second at the Royal Melbourne Show’s cake decorating competitions.
Anita Laskovsky, a Clyde North resident entered not one, but four cakes into the cake decorating competitions which saw her win the Most Successful Exhibitor Award.
To Anita, the whole experience felt “unrealeven now just sitting here, I just can’t believe it”.
“You know from 10 years ago when I first started getting into cake decorating, and when I first entered competitions I would get awards like highly recommended or just get told well done.
“Looking back at that and to actually you know, come first and win, it’s amazing,” she said.
The four cakes Anita submitted were a clear display of her skill, her attention to detail, and her proficiency in decor.
The piece that garnered the most attention was her roast dinner; complete with a whole chook, collared greens, carrots, potatoes, corn, peas and tomatoes, all pieced together like the perfect Sunday roast - except it’s cake.
Another piece was a baby Grinch, sitting down with a smaller cake in between its legs, covered in snow dust and with a little snowman for company.
Anita developed her love for patisserie after bingeing on cooking shows during the floods in Brisbane in 2011 and 2012, and after indulging in a series of cake shows, she realised that not only herself, but her children would love it too.
The competition wasn’t her first, and having been a hairdresser in her home city, Anita has always been good with her hands, however, she considers herself more of a decorator than a baker.
“I gave up hairdressing and decided to make some cakes, I loved it, family and friends loved it and I sort of had a little bit of business going - and then we decided to move to Melbourne,” Anita said.
It was here that she decided to enrol in Chisholm’s patisserie certificate three course in order to formalise her qualifications as a cake deco-
rator, a crucial step in which Anita recalled led her to where she is now.
“That was when I decided to enrol and learn, to do something more on the patisserie side and of course the baking side,” she said.
“It was a chance for me to ‘advance my cakes’ and such and I absolutely loved it.
“And now, I love being able to teach people, because as I said I was self-employed and selftaught, so it’s my passion that I have that I want other people out there to be able to go, ‘you know what, I can do this as well’.”
Currently, Anita runs a cake-decorating business, called Whisk Takers in Lynbrook, a play on
the popular term and an ode to her switch in careers even through her middle ages.
That, in itself, has been a place for her to grow, where she learned more about pastries and also expanded her own skillset.
Anita’s results at the Show are as follows:
· First - ‘Is That Cake?’ Category
· First - ‘Novelty Christmas Theme’ CategoryBaby Grinch
· First - ‘Innovation Cakes’ Too Cute CategorySunflower Piggy
· Second - ‘Creative Challenge, Dolly Verden’ Category
Taking her inspiration from all aspects of life,
from YouTube to everyday things, Anita recalled the first take on a realistic patisserie she made, which was a lettuce made from wafer paper and other materials.
Taking it back to her current pieces, it’s not uncommon for Anita to tell others first what they see, such as the chicken, but then “I’ll say it’s a cake and they’ll be like, whoa”.
“I made the roast and everything, put it on the dinner table and I said, it’s time for dinner but then when I told them it was cake they were all shocked!
“So it’s about that you know, trying new things, expanding, I love trying new and different things and push the boundaries a little bit,” she said.
St John of God Berwick Hospital (SJGBH) is running a new service putting patients in touch with specialist emergency doctors without leaving home.
Operated in conjunction with online emergency service My Emergency Doctor, the telehealth service is designed to help individuals facing urgent, but non-life-threatening medical concerns, especially when a visit to the ED seems like the next step and their regular GP was not available.
If hospital admission was required, a direct pathway to SJGBH may be organised, with referrals for diagnostic tests such as pathology and radiology, medical specialists and allied health professionals also able to be arranged.
My Emergency Doctor is an emergency tele-
medicine service providing access to an Australian qualified emergency specialist doctor 24 hours a day and seven days a week.
To access the service, patients pay a $220 fee reimbursable by SJGBH if the consultation results in direct admission, which is half of the cost of attending other local private emergency departments, SJGBH said.
Within the first three months after commencing in May, a total of 37 calls were received, with 38 per cent of patients being directly admitted to SJGBH.
The average patient age was 55 years, with 27 per cent of patients 75 years and older.
Pain was the most common presenting complaint, in particular back pain.
SJGBH chief executive Lisa Norman said the
response from both GPs and patients had been extremely positive, with GPs recognising the value of the service in ensuring their patients can access care out of surgery hours.
The first patient to utilise the service was recommended by a local GP.
For many patients, avoiding a public emergency department when possible is highly desirable, including patients undergoing chemotherapy or those who find attending an ED stressful or triggering, SJGBH said.
Jeremy Stork used the My Emergency Doctor service to arrange a consultation for his elderly mother-in-law Pat.
“Pat had terrible swelling in her legs and was in a lot of pain,” he said.
“It’s extremely difficult to get her into the car
for medical appointments, let alone wait in an ED.
“We connected with My Emergency Doctor via Pat’s iPad while she rested and talked with a doctor who was able to assess her and arrange direct admission to the hospital that night.
“It was a real game-changer for us and meant Pat began treatment much sooner.”
The initiative is one of a number of a initiatives undertaken as part of the St John of God Health Care’s Virtual Care Strategy, which recognises issues for private patients seeking easier access to private health care services without a GP or public emergency department doctor referral.
To learn more or access My Emergency Doctor, visit sjog.org.au/berwickonlinedoctor
By Ethan Benedicto
The northern fringes of the City of Casey are known for their flora, and the hills are painted green with trees galore, an aspect that future council candidates are looking to preserve.
Grevillea Ward, which consists of Narre Warren North, Harkaway, Narre Warren and parts of Berwick, is home to Wilson Botanic Park, renowned for its rock formations and historical significance, as well as its commodity to the local community.
A recent meeting by the Friends of Wilson Botanical Park delved into the plausibility of propagating plants, tending to them, and growing them, before putting them up for sale to the general public in order to raise funds and sustain the activities of the club.
Independent candidate Stephen Capon, who was in attendance, said that given the chance for him to be elected, the project would “certainly be one of the projects I would be advocating for the council to include in their budget for next year”.
“Looking at the broader community, it would be a [chance] for more plants and more sources of plants; the chance to grow more native and local plants, the opportunity for kids and those in school to potentially be involved in that, education purposes.”
Given the economic success of the Cranbourne Friends and their contribution to the Royal Botanic Gardens, Capon added that it could also be a reliable economic investment for the future.
Fellow candidate John Ternel said that he is “one hundred per cent” in support of the initiative, putting emphasis on the garden’s significance and historical, geological and flora contributions.
“Wilson Botanical Park is full of rich historical and cultural values, we’ve got people that are going to maintain that, and more importantly, we’re talking about people’s mental health and also caring about the future,” he said.
“If they’re going to be able to help teach other people how to propagate plants and how you grow them and then make some money out of it to help the projects moving forward, I’m 100 per cent behind it.”
Stephen Matulec sees importance in any movement that is “community-focused”, with this Friends initiative being one of many possibilities
for the ward, especially when it comes to public land.
“I’m someone who personally prefers to see more community involvement in council processes and on council land,” he said.
“I’m actually a very big supporter that, that public land should be available for public use, engagement, and activity, especially.”
Expanding on exploring similar efforts from the Friends, where environmental-based and community-initiated projects are central, is something that Matulec would like to see; a sentiment that both Capon and Ternel echo, considering the Green Wedge in the north and the connection that the local communities have with the semi-rural abode.
Understanding the State Government’s 2021 tightening of the Green Wedge Protection Act, Dave Perry is of like mind, adding that there is still a need to “plan around” the Wedge in order to “keep the amenity and make sure that we’ve got those corridors for wildlife and trees throughout Casey”.
“You’ve got Lysterfield Lake, a lot of other open spaces out there, you’ve got forests, so we kind of want to maintain that and we want to maintain or build connections between those kinds of wildlife refuges,” he said.
Capon acknowledged that keeping Casey green has been a strong focus for the current council, and is something that should be upheld should the next batch of councillors come into office.
“There’s something about being out in nature, as humans, just energises and revitalises us,” he said.
“It’s important we have these environmental initiatives to really help maintain and support our green spaces so that we can continue to appreciate it for our generation, but also for the generations to come.”
However, the topic of infrastructural development and needs are still rife, with congestion being a topical issue, as well as facilities such as schools, places of worship and community centres.
Balance is key, according to Dave Perry, with the movement of the people, housing opportunities and such to be worked in conjunction with the requirements and needs of the Green Wedge.
“I think any high-density construction just needs to be along the train line in Casey, and I know that’s not really an issue for us in Grevillea Ward, but around in Clyde, it’s hard to travel at certain times of the day,” he said.
In general, “one would have to bring strategic
planning rules into council to really control that”.
“You know, you’d have to zone sections of the council and then build a strategic plan around what you want to have in those areas.
“You can’t just make a decision on the fly with this sort of thing, you need to think it out over time and plan for the long term.”
For Ternel, it’s as simple as having a “common-sense approach” when it comes to planning.
“We need to have a common-sense approach and do some, you know, perform some responsible environment development,” he said.
“We do have lots of lots of open space, lots of land, so if we use a common sense approach and build in a responsible environment way, we can make it happen.”
Carmen Powell, taking from her parents who grew up in rural Victoria, more than understands the strong focus of keeping Grevillea green, but also sees the balance needed when it comes to the community’s needs.
“You’ve got to look at the capacity within an area and looking at, you know - we moved to Harkaway on a personal level for the space and we would like it to stay that way for a good time to come,” she said.
“It’s about looking at what’s relevant for the future of the area, the electricity versus gas debate, water, internet and so on.
“All those needs to be considered; what’s going to bring those things to the area and what does the community want and need?” she said.
David Parr also understands the importance of Capon’s initiative, also having attended the Friends’ meeting, sees eye-to-eye with their goals, and the wider needs of the Green Wedge; at the same time he also recognises the vast elderly population in the north and is a strong advocate for the development of aged cares.
“The Green Wedge is there to limit urban development and we [the people] are agreeing on that, we like it the way it is,” he said.
“My main push is the community development of aged care facilities and aged care programs, I want those to happen,” he said.
Ultimately a balance must be struck, between environmentally-focused movements like support for the Friends and Wilson Botanic, and catering to the needs of the people through infrastructural development of roads and various community facilities.
A vacant former restaurant in Eumemmerring was destroyed by a suspicious fire early on Sunday morning (6 October).
Firefighters were called to Hog’s Breath Cafe at Princes Highway about 5.47am.
The 1600-square metre timber building was found “fully involved in flames” and the response was “escalated”, an FRV spokesperson stated.
FRV and CFA crews, including an aerial appliance battled the blaze, bringing the scene under control at 8.21am.
“There was minor fire exposure to neighbouring properties, including a petrol station and
several houses.
“Firefighters made significant progress in the first hour but were expected to remain at the scene for several hours to fully extinguishing the blaze.”
A Community Advice warning was issued for smoke in the area, with smoke impacting visibility on the Princes Highway.
Victoria Police was investigating the blaze, which was being treated as “suspicious”.
Any information to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
A ground-breaking legal service for the LGBTQIA+ community has been launched in the South East.
Justice Q was created by South-East Monash Legal Service (SMLS) to provide “safe, inclusive and affirming” legal help that is free and confidential.
A team of LGBTQIA+ lawyers, social workers and community development professionals are delivering the wraparound service.
It aims to clear legal hurdles faced by LGBTQIA+ clients, in areas such as discrimination, harassment, family violence, gender affirmation and family law.
Searing stories were told of the barriers at the Justice Q launch on 2 October.
Often people feel marginalised in a system “tailored to those with more privilege”, guest speaker and transgender-rights activist Sasja Sÿdek said.
Sÿdek, a transgender woman of colour, sought legal help for a workplace discrimination case.
It was hard to find respectful lawyers. She felt misgendered, overlooked and even questioned about her sexuality – which was irrelevant to her case.
Her lawyer – an older, straight, white man –invited her for a drink. Others seemed more focused on the money and didn’t fight hard enough for Sÿdek.
The newly-installed Victorian Commissioner for LGBTQIA+ Communities, Joe Ball, shared a powerful example of how laws impact lives.
A proud transgender man, Ball told of the difficulties of changing his assigned gender on his birth certificate in Queensland – up until a law reform that came into effect this year.
“The only way I could have changed my gender, without that legislative change, was if I’d have a sterilisation surgery... a forced hysterectomy.
“That would have been a completely unnecessary surgery for me, just so that I could have the right gender that I live my life in on my birth certificate.
“Importantly it means when my first child is born I can be a father on the birth certificate. And that means the world to me.
“Imagine if you had to put something that was not yourself on the birth certificate or you couldn’t be on the birth certificate.”
That reform was won after many years of advocacy from community legal services and LGBTQIA+ groups, Ball said.
Ball noted the importance of new services outside of “established” LGBTQIA+ community centres such as Brunswick and Prahran.
“I’m always moved to this day when I see people setting up services that are outside of the city centre. Because the message that sends is we are everywhere.
“To expect people to travel at some of the hardest times of their life – to travel up to an hour and a half to get that legal support is so prohibitive.”
Founding lawyer Kavitaha Sivasamy said there was a need to help clients “feel seen, hear and valued in the legal system”.
“As a proud transgender woman of colour, I feel so passionate about Justice Q because I have felt incredibly safe, understood and empowered when being helped by people who share my lived experience.”
Community education and engagement is another focus for Justice Q.
“We’re not just providing legal advice,” Justice Q community development worker Fiona Vuong said.
“We’re creating a supportive community where our clients can feel truly understood and supported.”
Such is Justice Q’s importance, SMLS is largely self-funding the program in its initial stages.
“Launching this program is one of the proudest moments in my career,” SMLS chief executive Kristen Wallwork told the event.
“We are responding to the people around us and providing a service for our whole community.
“The right legal help can have a hugely positive impact on people’s lives.
“Legal problems are incredibly stressful, and we need responses that are safe, affirming and above all kind.”
Justice Q in-person and telephone appointments are available at Springvale and Narre Warren. A free interpreter service is available. Contact: 9545 7400 or JusticeQProgram@smls. com.au
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
There are calls for more safe injecting rooms after 547 Victorians died from overdoses in 2023, including a record toll in Greater Dandenong.
The Victorian overdose toll was the secondhighest on record, according to the Victorian Overdose Deaths 2014–2023 report from the Coroner’s Court of Victoria.
Last year, 25 people died from drug overdoses in Greater Dandenong – also its highest yearly toll in the past 10 years.
It was fifth-highest in the state, behind council areas Yarra (33), Brimbank (27), Geelong (27) and Melbourne (27).
In Casey, there were 15 overdose deaths. Its annual toll has fluctuated between nine and 20 over the past decade.
In Cardinia, there were six deaths last yearwith figures fluctuating between two and 13 in the past 10 years.
Greater Dandenong recorded its highest overdose toll in the past decade, including a decade-high number of deaths involving heroin.
There were 17 fatal overdoses involving heroin in the council area last year - the secondhighest in the state, behind City of Yarra (19) which is home to Melbourne’s only safe-injecting facility.
Heroin was involved in 68 per cent of fatal overdoses in Greater Dandenong.
Neither Casey or Cardinia featured in the top 13 council areas for fatal heroin-involved overdoses over the past decade. Greater Dandenong was ranked fifth-highest.
Victorian Alcohol and Drug Association, a peak group which represents drug and alcohol services, stated there was a clear need for additional medically-supervised injecting centres in high-risk areas.
It stated that the North Richmond facility managed more than 9000 overdoses and supported more than 1000 people onto opioid pharmacotherapy.
“While the Victorian Government is to be commended on progressing harm reduction policies like drug checking and expanding access to naloxone, deep frustration remains with
the decision to abandon a CBD medically supervised injecting room,” chief executive Chris Christoforou said.
“Each person who fatally overdosed in 2023 had family, friends and loved ones who now keenly feel their loss.
“Bereaved families are often left to pick up the pieces and work through the associated trauma that comes with their grief.
“This is complicated by the stigma and discrimination experienced with overdose.”
State Coroner Judge John Cain said the statewide toll was “deeply troubling”.
“These deaths are preventable and we must strengthen our public health response and increase access to supports and treatment.
“Drug-related harms are complex and are driven by a variety of factors including changes in drug use, availability and regulation.”
The Coroner’s report found a majority of overdose deaths in Victoria involved multiple drugs (71.5 per cent). The vast majority were deemed unintentional deaths.
The top contributing drugs included legal and illicit substances – diazepam (213 deaths), heroin (204), methamphetamine (164), alcohol (153) and pregabalin (78).
Over the past decade, pharmaceutical drugs were the most frequent contributors. This role had declined from 82 per cent in 2014 to 69 per cent in 2023.
Heroin-involved deaths had decreased slightly from 230 in 2022 to 204.
“Heroin-involved overdose deaths vary substantially from year to year amongst local government areas, with the exception of Yarra, where heroin-involved overdose deaths have been consistently elevated,” the Coroner’s report stated.
New psychoactive substances – which mimic the effects of other drugs - were an “emerging concern”, increasingly involved in overdose deaths since 2019.
These included NPS benzodiazepines, NPS opioids and NPS nitazenes.
By Violet Li
A Casey Council candidate says he is considering legal action against a local Facebook account, which he has accused of defaming him.
Correa Ward candidate Gary Rowe, a former councillor and an ex-Cranbourne Liberal MP, denied claims made by the Facebook account called City of Casey Transparency Monitor about him and another former councillor Wayne Smith.
The recently-created City of Casey Transparency Monitor has twice posted about the pair of councillors being named in the IBAC Operation Sandon anti-corruption investigation into Casey Council and property developers.
Mr Rowe alleges that the posts have made defamatory assertions - which he describes as “just rubbish, utter rubbish”.
The account’s introduction states: “I present accurate information about the 2024 Casey City Council election, so you can decide who to vote for. I’m not affiliated with the council, or with any candidates. I won’t tell you who to vote for. It’s your decision.”
The posts noted that IBAC made “no adverse comments or opinions” on Mr Rowe.
Mr Rowe said there was no statement by IBAC that said he could be compromised.
“There’s nothing for them to infer out of the IBAC report. The IBAC report totally clears me. And there’s nothing there other than that. They’re not putting the truth up there to say that we could be compromised because of the IBAC report.”
Mr Rowe also said the information on this Facebook page was not authorised.
“There’s no declaration as to who’s making these assertions. It’s totally anonymous. They cannot put anything up during a campaign that is not authorised by the person who puts it up,” he said.
Amanjit Gill, a Casey local who is behind the account, said she was not trying to be anonymous.
“I’ve shared my Facebook page on my personal profile, and I used Facebook ads to promote my page, fully aware that my real name will appear in the Ad Library for the next seven years,” she said.
Ms Gill posted on her LinkedIn two weeks ago that she created the City of Casey Transparency Monitor to share the intelligence she could gather about this year’s candidates in the Casey election.
“My post clearly says that IBAC didn’t have ‘adverse comments or opinions’ about Mr Smith and Mr Rowe.”
Ms Gill referred to a section of the Operation Sandon report called ’The use of other Casey councillors’.
The report stated that in 2014, developer John Woodman and associates cultivated a relationship with Mr Rowe on the basis that he supported rezoning industrial land.
“There is no evidence, other than an assertion by Mr Woodman, that (his associate Tom)
Kenessey unduly influenced Councillor Rowe to support Amendment C219,“ the report stated.
In 2016, Mr Woodman organised a fundraising event that raised $10,000 for Councillor Rowe’s Casey Council election campaign.
“Councillor Rowe was unable to identify individual donations from the fundraising event.
“Consequently, he provided an addendum to his donation return, stating that he had received advice from the Local Government Inspectorate that he was not expected to provide details of multiple small donations at a fundraising event, even if the aggregate amount was more than $500.
“He did not, however, declare Mr Woodman’s contribution to the event, which would have exceeded the prescribed limit.“
“Although Councillor Rowe supported the rezoning, it appears that his awareness of the relationships between Mr Woodman and Mr Kenessey and Ms Schutz, and their involvement and interests in Amendment C219, was limited,“ IBAC reported.
Ms Gill said she did not need to authorise her posts because she was not running an electoral campaign, was not campaigning to achieve a specific outcome at the election, was not posting to further anyone’s interests, and was not telling people who they should vote for.
“And as far as I am aware, I don’t know any candidates personally. I’ve never been a member of a political party. I’ve never helped a candidate by distributing flyers, etc.
“Therefore, the posts I produce are not electoral campaign material. For that to be the case, there would need to be an electoral campaign.”
Ms Gill also said she didn’t put her name on her page because it was not about her.
“It’s about our community and our shared experience of navigating a council election after the events of 2020,” she said.
“The posts I write are similar to what one might find on a blog.
“Australians are allowed to discuss politics and politicians without authorising all of their statements, including during elections.
“If it turns out that political discourse pertaining to specific people or events is electoral campaign material, this would set a troubling precedent by which all political commentary, online and offline, would need to be authorised. This would mean that we are mistaken as to our collective understanding of our rights.”
Mr Rowe said he would continue to speak with his lawyer and he had also put a request to the Local Government Inspectorate.
“To be honest, I got a lot more important and better things to do than do these things,” he said.
In 2014, Mr Rowe introduced a motion at council to explore non-industrial uses of industrial land owned by a Woodman’s employer Leighton Properties. The motion was not drafted by him; it was drafted by a Woodman associate Megan Schutz.
Grevillea Ward
• Suburbs: Narre Warren North, Harkaway, Narre Warren, Berwick
• Candidates: Carmen Powell, Stephen Matulec, Sinfree Chirunga, Stephen Capon, David Parr, Dave Perry, Haroon Sayed, Burnard Postma and John Ternel
Please note that this list is not complete, and candidates who have submitted a late response will only have their profile updated online, pictures included.
Stephen Matulec
Suburb of residence: Narre Warren. How long have you lived in The City of Casey? 22 years.
Political party (past or present): Libertarian. But currently not engaging with any political party. My campaign has no affiliation with a political party and I’m not receiving any help from a political party. My campaign is self-funded by me only and I’m not taking any donations or financial help.
Occupation, business/employer name: Uni Student – Economics and Politics. Property interests: None.
Business interests: None.
Three most important issues for your ward:
Rates are too expensive – Many families and pensioners struggle to pay their rates bill, with northern Casey having some of the highest rates in the municipality. Council should be more efficient with spending and look at cutting rates down. Lack of transparency and accountability – Following the sacking of the previous council and the current un-elected administrators, the council continues to lack transparency and accountability.
A transparency hub like the one Frankston council created, needs to be established to make all information easily accessible to the public.
Community consultation needs to be increased. Too much bureaucracy – A lot of money is spent on the council offices and helping big corporations, while small businesses struggle.
Money needs to be spent on local commu-
Stephen Capon
Suburb of residence:
Narre Warren
How long have you lived in The City of Casey?
My whole life (except a 3 month study trip interstate).
Political party (past or present): Past – Labor (till midway 2022), ran Independent (preferencing Liberal) in 2022 State Election, have remained Independent since (no party affiliation, swing voter).
nities and local issues including roads, rubbish, parks, sports clubs, and supporting small businesses, not on bureaucracy or corporations. There are also too many rules impeding on private property rights.
Describe your involvement in the local community:
I have done grassroots activism to try and hold this council accountable. I did a petition for Casey residents to sign to lobby the administrators to hold council meetings at a more reasonable time, instead of the 4pm time when no one can attend.
I’m always questioning the council’s decisions, especially use of ratepayer funds, and I will always keep pushing to put the community first.
Why are you standing for election?
I’m sick of the... lack of transparency and accountability, and ratepayer funds being wasted. I’m sick of the CEO and senior council staff running the council like a corporation, and the lack of community feel, and I’m sick of the inaccessible council meetings.
I want to clean up this... lack of transparency, to make this council more accountable, and to give the community more say. I want ratepayer funds to only be spent on local issues and for rates to be cut down. What is your campaign budget?
About $2000 of my own money. Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed?
None.
What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign?
None.
Who will you direct your preferences to? People choose their own preferences, and I will not be telling people how to vote.
Occupation, business/employer name: Electrical Engineer (Building Services) – ACOR Consultants.
Property interests: None.
Business interests:
None.
Three most important issues for your ward: Councillors who won’t be... like the last bunch, cost-of-living pressures, and various local issues ranging from roads, sports equipment, playground degradation, land subdivision, etc..
Carmen Powell
Suburb of residence:
Harkaway(nextmonth)NarreWarrenSouth.
How long have you lived in The City of Casey?
30 plus years.
Political party (past or present):
None.
Occupation, business/employer name:
Studio Director - Masquerade Talent Studios.
Property interests:
Investment property and our own home.
Business interests:
My own business.
Three most important issues for your ward:
Core issues of Roads, Rates and Rubbish all branching to the needs of the community.
Describe your involvement in the local community:
A passionate advocate for access and inclu-
Haroon Sayed
Suburb of residence:
I live in Narre Warren
How long have you lived in The City of Casey?
I have lived in the city of Casey for 13 years. Political party (past or present): No.
Occupation, business/employer name: Public Transport/Projects. Property interests: Owner Occupier. Business interests: No.
Three most important issues for your ward: Affordability. Safety. Upgrades. Inclusion and Empowerment.
Describe your involvement in the local community:
I currently serve as the Head of Operations and Project Manager at Bakhtar Community Organisation, where I have been passionately dedicated to community service since 2020.
My journey began during the COVID-19 lockdowns, delivering food packages to vulnerable individuals, including those who lost their jobs or were on temporary visas.
Leveraging my expertise in finance and project management, I have led initiatives focused on raising awareness of chronic illnesses, COVID-19, gender equality in sports, domestic violence, the harms of gambling, and cancer screenings for breast, cervical, and bowel cancer.
A significant part of my work has been empowering women through leadership programs, financial literacy workshops, and support services while fostering community participation across various projects.
In 2022, I was instrumental in establishing a warehouse that supplies essential items—such as food, clothing, and household goods—to the homeless, survivors of domestic violence, refugees, and asylum seekers.
My commitment to making a difference has been recognised through several
Describe your involvement in the local community:
Current member of Narre Warren North Community Association and have met with Berwick Activities Club, Country Women’s Association – Berwick and Friends of Wilson Botanic Park. Why are you standing for election?
As a way of serving the community, through making the effort to listen to residents and local community groups and working to meet their needs.
What is your campaign budget?
$1,000 - $1,500, self-funded.
sion in our community. Supporting social enterprise and work experience for people with disabilities.
Supporting and advocating for families with needs to support their young and adult children with disabilities. Advisory groups and committees for City Casey Council.
Our local business contributes to organisationsthatprovideresourcesforvulnerable children. Sporting organisations throughout Casey where our children have participated.
Community theatre, since my early teens I have been a part of Casey’s performing arts organisations. Board member for various schools and current treasurer for a local primary school.
Founder and board member of a not-forprofit registered charity Masquerade Youth Productions. Advocacy for deaf culture, awareness and needs in the community.
Youth Referral and Independent Program representative for young people in custody. Foster carer for 25 years.
Why are you standing for election?
awards, including Bakhtar Volunteer of the Year (2022), the Victorian Volunteer Leadership Award (2023), and the Holt Community Leadership Award (2024).
I am devoted to promoting multiculturalism, inclusion, and harmony within our community.
With my experience and skills, I am eager to contribute to the City of Casey and create a positive impact if elected. Why are you standing for election?
I am standing for election to rebuild trust in our community and ensure fairness in local governance.
The dismissal of the former Casey Council due to [alleged] corruption was a clear wakeup call, highlighting the urgent need for leaders who prioritise integrity and transparency.
Our community deserves a fresh start, and I am committed to fostering open communication and accountability.
Together, we can pave the way for a brighter future for everyone in Casey What is your campaign budget?
$2000.
Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed?
I have not received any campaign donations and do not plan to solicit funds. My campaign is entirely self-funded, relying solely on my personal budget.
What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign?
I focus on the concerns and needs of the community rather than seeking advice from councillors, ex-councillors, or politicians. My campaign is driven by listening to residents and understanding their priorities. It’s the voices of the community that guide my efforts and inform my vision for a better future.
Who will you direct your preferences to?
I’ll be directing my preferences to Carmen Powell and David Parr, two incredible individuals who share my vision and values for our community.
Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed?
No donations received.
What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign?
30-minute chat with Brad Battin (Member for Berwick) on community engagement (recommended by others).
Who will you direct your preferences to? No one (Vote 1 CAPON, number other boxes 2 – 9).
My commitment to advocacy and bringing a voice of understanding to the council, I believe is a strength that I can offer to the community.
I listen to people and then follow through and take action. I have kind leadership skills and appreciate that everyone’s contributions are valued.
Casey has allowed me to learn, live and grow and I would now like to offer the same to future generations and look after those that paved the way for us all now. What is your campaign budget? Under 10K.
Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed? None to date.
What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign? None to date.
Who will you direct your preferences to? Undecided at this time.
John Ternel
How long have you lived in the City of Casey? I have proudly lived in the City of Casey for 50 years. My family built the third house in Endeavour Hills in the ’70s, and I’ve been deeply invested in the growth and development of our community ever since. From seeing Casey’s early days to witnessing its rapid expansion, I’ve faced its challenges and celebrated its progress alongside my neighbours. This firsthand experience gives me a unique understanding of the local area and what is needed to help our community thrive in the years ahead.
Political party (past or present): I am a member of the Liberal Party; however, I want to make it absolutely clear that I am running as an independent candidate. My commitment is solely to the people of Casey. I believe that council decisions should be made based on what’s best for the residents, not influenced by political agendas. As an independent, I will always put the community first and work for what benefits our city without any political interference.
Occupation, business/employer name: I am the CEO of my own IT consulting and business transformation firm. My work involves managing large-scale local and global projects, delivering solutions that improve efficiency, and navigating complex challenges for organisations across industries. This includes overseeing multimillion-dollar budgets and implementing innovative strategies to drive results. These skills are directly translatable to managing the annual $540M budget of our council, ensuring resources are allocated wisely, and projects are executed effectively for the benefit of all residents..
Property interests: I am a long-term homeowner in the Grevillea Ward, where my family and I currently reside. I understand the concerns of local homeowners because I experience them myself— whether it’s maintaining our properties, dealing with rising costs, or ensuring our community remains safe and liveable. My deep connection to the area drives my passion for making Grevillea Ward a place where families can continue to grow and thrive.
Business interests: My business interests encompass IT consulting and business transformations, with a specialisation in local and
Dave Perry
Suburb of residence:
Narre Warren North.
How long have you lived in The City of Casey? Over 40 years.
Political party (past or present): The Australian Greens.
Occupation, business/employer name: Agency Group Sales Manager at Civic Outdoor. Property interests: Own home.
Business interests:
Owner of Map Media, our family business. Three most important issues for your ward: Inappropriate development affecting the livability of our area causing traffic issues and in some cases threatening our Green Wedge; Insufficient aged care services for our ageing population causing undue stress to families and increasing expense; Integrity- council must act in our communities best interests to ensure community safety and alleviate cost of living pressures. Describe your involvement in the local community:
global IT network and cybersecurity deployments. I have a proven track record of working across diverse cultures and industries, managing complex projects while upholding the highest standards of transparency and integrity. My expertise extends to risk management and regulatory compliance, ensuring that all aspects of my work are conducted with rigorous accountability. I regularly undergo police and working with children checks, which reflects my unwavering commitment to trustworthiness and responsibility—qualities I will bring to the council. Additionally, I hold a Master of Information Systems degree from Swinburne University, further enhancing my capability to oversee and innovate and reduce annual operating costs passing savings on to residents.
Three most important issues for your ward: Youth crime and theft – I will work closely with community organisations, schools, and local businesses to create engagement programs, mentorship opportunities, and job pathways to help keep young people on the right track. Reducing youth crime isn’t just about policing; it’s about providing opportunities and positive alternatives. Cost of living crisis – Many families in Casey are struggling with rising costs. I will push for measures to reduce council rates and curb unnecessary spending, helping to ease the financial pressure on residents. We need to focus on what truly benefits our community and cut back on the rest. Sporting facilities and equipment – Sporting clubs and community facilities are crucial for keeping families and young people active, healthy, and engaged. I am committed to upgrading and maintaining our sports infrastructure to ensure all residents have access to topquality venues and equipment, creating a sense of pride in our local sports teams and activities.
Describe your involvement in the local community:
I serve as a senior Rotary Leader and Chairman of the Dandenong All Holden Car Show, which has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for local charities over the past decade. Through my involvement in Rotary, I’ve contributed to various local community projects, helping to address key issues in the Casey area. The car show, in particular, has brought the community together, supporting causes that improve the lives of our residents, from premature baby cribs to youth programs to healthcare and medical research funding for children’s cancer research. My ongoing work with local charities and organisations keeps me connected to
I am a local business owner. My kids go to local schools. I coach my son’s local basketball team. I help out with cleaning and fundraising for my daughter’s local Girl Guides. I undertook the role of President at our local Kindergarten when my daughter attended. Why are you standing for election?
So we have a normal everyday resident as a candidate for our area. I am proud to live in this part of the world and I want to make sure Casey remains a place we can all be proud of. What is your campaign budget? Up to $400.
Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed?
A few friends and family who have donated between $20 and $100 each.
What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or exMPs have assisted or advised your campaign? Rhonda Garad (Current City of Greater Dandenong Councillor).
Who will you direct your preferences to? No one.
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the heartbeat of our community and aware of its most pressing needs.
Why are you standing for election?
I am standing for election because I believe Casey needs strong, transparent leadership that is focused on delivering real outcomes for the residents. My decades of business and community experience equip me with the skills to manage Council resources responsibly and drive projects that make a lasting positive impact. I am passionate about making Casey a better place to live, work, and raise families. My vision includes revamping the Tidy Towns Awards to encourage local beautification efforts and reinvigorating Neighbourhood Watch to enhance community safety and engagement. I want to build trust between the council and the people, ensuring every decision is made in the best interest of the community. My goal is to see Casey grow in a way that benefits all residents, creating a safe, vibrant, and connected city.
What is your campaign budget?
I do not have a formal campaign budget; I am selffunding it to ensure my campaign remains independent and accountable only to the voters. This way, my commitment is solely to the community, without any external financial influence.
Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed?
I am entirely self-funding my campaign to stay true to my values of independence and transparency. This approach ensures that my campaign is free from any outside interests, and my loyalty is entirely to the residents of Casey.
What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs, or exMPs have assisted or advised your campaign?
I have not sought assistance or advice from councillors or politicians. I believe in running a campaign based on my own merits and the needs of the community. My experience as a business leader and community advocate is what drives my vision for Casey, not political guidance or influence.
Who will you direct your preferences to?
As an independent candidate, I will not allocate preferences. I believe in winning fairly, based on my own strengths and the trust of the voters. This allows residents to have confidence that their vote will lead to genuine representation, without any deals or compromises behind the scenes. I want to ensure that the people of Casey are truly heard and that their needs are at the forefront of every decision.
David Parr
Suburb of Residence: Berwick
How long have you lived in The City of Casey?
I’ve lived in the Timbarra Estate in Berwick for the past 11 years and in the City of Casey for the past 20 years.
Political party (past or present):
I am fully independent, funded by myself, but I am a member of the ALP with no endorsements offered or accepted.
Occupation, business/employer name:
I am a small business owner for 31 years being Parrs Business Equipment.
Property interests:
I own my house in the Timbarra Estate.
Business Interests: NIL.
Three most important issues for your ward: Traffic management for Wilsons Botanical Park. Green Wedge A plan to be retained. Road maintenance, especially potholes to be quickly repaired. Keeping the council budget to reflect the cost of living pressures at the present time. Describe your involvement in the local
Sinfree Chirunga
• Suburb of residence: Narre Warren North.
How long have you lived in The City of Casey? I’ve lived in Casey +10 years. Political party (past or present): None. Occupation, business/employer name: Director of FP&A, Peninsula Health. Property interests: Yes.
Business interests: Yes.
Three most important issues for your ward: Infrastructure (traffic congestion), reliable public transport, youth services, transparency in development projects. Consultation between council and community.
Describe your involvement in the local community:
Former Board Director and Treasurer Women’s Health in the South East. Basketball coach at Berwick.
Why are you standing for election?
I am not a politician and I believe that the community needs transparency in how taxpayer funds are being utilised. It was sad to see the previous council being stood down for [alleged] corruption. There is dire need for strong, effective governance by people who are genuinely interested in the betterment of all in the community and love where they live!
What is your campaign budget?
Who are your campaign donors? Myself hence very minimum budget for the campaign.
How much have each contributed?
N/a.
What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign?
None.
Who will you direct your preferences to? Carmen Powell and Stephen Capon.
community:
Being a small business professional with over 30 years of experience I will provide honesty and integrity to the City of Casey Council achieved through hard work combined with business acumen.
What is your campaign budget?
My budget so far is under $2000. Who are your campaign donors?
I do not have any campaign donors and will not accept them if offered to me. How much have each contributed? N/A.
What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs, or exMPs have assisted or advised your campaign? The only person to assist me has been Luke Donnallen ex State Government Minister also a member for the seat of Narre Warren North for 20 years who has given me a brief outline to what a councillor would be required to do in the City of Casey.
Who will you direct your preferences to?
At this stage I have only one preference agreement with Haroon Sayed but more will follow shortly.
KALORA WARD
• Suburbs: Lysterfield South, Endeavour Hills, Narre Warren North
• Candidates: Zabi Mazoori, Duc Nguyen, Peterine Smulders, Damien Sawyer, Fred Jover, Brian Oates, Melinda Ambros, Jafri Katagara Luwanga, Afroz Ahmed
• Please note that not all candidates have replied to the questionnaire, and as such, their responses will be published online only if they were to submit any future responses.
Zabi Mazoori
Suburb of residence: Endeavour Hills
How long have you lived in the City of Casey? Five years.
Political party (past or present): None.
Occupation, business/employer name: Team leader/community engagement lead at Victorian Foundation for Survivors of Torture (Foundation House) - providing trauma recovery and mental health services. Property interests: One owner-occupied property.
Business interests: None currently.
Three most important issues for your ward: Top three issues for Casey and Kalora Ward: Improve and expand council’s services. If elected, I will focus on improving and expanding council services and infrastructure. I will champion increased and better recreational and sport facilities that can be accessed by all Casey residents. The City of Casey has limited public transportation, and residents need to travel long distances to access social, recreational and sporting facilities. Better access will reduce social isolation and improve residents’ physical and mental health. I will also focus on improving community safety and crime prevention initiatives.
Support economic growth to assist local businesses. The City of Casey is the most populated municipality in Victoria. However, many residents travel to work outside of the area. I will focus on a plan to attract more businesses to the City of Casey. I will also focus on supporting small business owners through minimising costs and providing greater incentives for people to do business in Casey. Ensure greater accountability for all council decision-making. I will bring integrity and independence to the council and will deliver results. Due to [alleged] corruption and the dismissal of previous councillors, the reputation of elected councillors is damaged. I will work hard to bring back trust, accountability and transparency. I will advocate for greater ac-
Melinda Ambros
Suburb of residence: I was born and raised in Endeavour Hills and now reside in Clyde North, maintaining a deep connection to the City of Casey.
How long have you lived in the City of Casey? 35-plus years.
Political party (past or present): Independent candidate with no political affiliations. Occupation, business/employer name: HR professional.
Property interests: No property interests. Business interests: No business interests or conflicts of interest.
Three most important issues for your ward: Keeping council rates low: Rising rates have placed a burden on families. I am committed to ensuring that residents see value for their money. I want residents to feel confident that their rates are spent appropriately, and I will work hard to advocate for fairer rates. Neglected infrastructure: Suburbs like Endeavour Hills, Lysterfield South, and Narre Warren North have been overlooked for too long. I will push for improved roads, safer footpaths, enhancing resident safety, and better-maintained facilities, ensuring our region gets the resources it needs. Supporting community services: From well-being services that cater to all ages to supporting local sports clubs and community events, I will focus on promoting initiatives that strengthen the Kalora ward and enrich the lives of residents.
Describe your involvement in the local community: Over the past 20 years, I have led and participated in numerous communityfocused initiatives. My work includes organising and running fundraising events for various causes, including local charities and community projects, along with youth tournaments that encourage sports participation and promote healthy activities for future generations.
countability for all council decision-making, both in terms of what services are provided and how money is spent to fund them. I will regularly consultant with residents and advocate for greater resident input on all issues before council.
Describe your involvement in the local community:
I am an active community member with over 20 years of experience as a volunteer with a myriad of community groups. I was a finalist for Casey Citizen of the Year in 2023 in recognition of my volunteer work with various sports, health and community organisations. Some of my community involvement includes: secretary of Greater Dandenong FC, coach for Melbourne Storm Women’s Volleyball Club, president of United Cultural Support Inc (UCSI), and committee member of Voice of the Outer South East (VOSE). Since 2023, I’ve also been coordinator of the Nawruz Festival, one of the largest annual events in Dandenong, which attracts thousands of attendees from the City of Casey.
Why are you standing for election? To bring integrity, independence and diversity to the City of Casey.
What is your campaign budget? I have started my campaign only about three weeks ago (as of 23 September) and as this is my first time running for council, my budget is evolving.
Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed? My campaign is primarily self-funded, but I have received donations from individual community members ranging from $50 to $1000. I will disclose donations as required by law.
What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign? None.
Who will you direct your preferences to? I haven’t yet decided.
Damien Sawyer
Suburb of residence: Narre Warren.
How long have you lived in The City of Casey? About 12 years.
Political party (past or present): Was a member of Liberal briefly, but it wasn’t for me. I much prefer independant candidates at all levels of government. One of my reasons for running is to stop Kalora falling into the hands of a political party.
Occupation, business/employer name: I’m a software architect, lead developer and software coach. I work on a number of projects including my own web businesses such as tickets.org.au
Property interests:
Only our family home. Business interests: tickets.org.au
Three most important issues for your ward: Rates, roads and rubbish!
Describe your involvement in the local community:
I have five children. Pretty much where they go, I go. Sports, dance, boys’ brigade, choir, swimming, library, school plays, karate etc. You name it, we do it! I also teach guitar and piano to school kids in my spare time. I’m not paid for this but do it because it brings me great joy.
Why are you standing for election? People whom I know in the community asked me to. I genuinely love people and the city of Casey in which we live. I’ve always had a strong interest in politics and follow it closely. I want to see our interests pushed, not those of
Jafri Katagara Luwanga
Suburb of residence: At the moment living in Berwick awaiting to relocate back to Endeavour Hills. Endeavour Hills is the first suburb that I settled in when I migrated to Australia in 2005. HowlonghaveyoulivedintheCityofCasey?
developers, the big parties or special interest minority groups. Doing the work that I do with software engineering, I think that I have skills in identifying waste and reducing costs. I believe in this area I often see opportunities which others miss. I’m also sick of the division in politics. Why is there so much fighting? It is often counter productive and, I suspect, a distraction from actually focussing on the important things.
What is your campaign budget? As little as we can make it! We’ve had lots of great people volunteer to help the campaign. They’re doing a lot of jobs that we’d otherwise have to pay for. The budget is around $3000 but I suspect we’re not going to spend it all. Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed? No one so far. It’s all being funded from our savings. We are firm though in that we’re not accepting any donations from Labor, Liberal, the Greens or any other party; nor from any big businesses. We’re absolutely resolute on this position and no amount of coersion will change that. What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign? No one has helped us at this stage. I went to an evening where Shar Balmes spoke about what council life was like. She inspired me, however hasn’t helped the campaign in any way. Who will you direct your preferences to? 2 - Peterine Smulders, 3 - Duc Nguyen.
Whether mentoring individuals, providing care for those in need of support and assistance, coaching sports teams, or working behind the scenes, my commitment to our community has made a real difference. Beyond the field, I frequently roll up my sleeves in the kitchen, preparing meals and serving food for our community at local events. My involvement in grassroots sporting clubs like Dandenong City and Berwick Churches soccer clubs, coupled with my experience in organising tournaments, means I have supported hundreds of players in reaching their potential. Through these efforts, I aim to bring the community together and create opportunities for everyone to contribute.
Why are you standing for election? I’m standing to ensure that local issues are prioritised over politics, while upholding integrity in every decision. I want to see real investment in our community and believe in delivering practical, community-focused solutions. I aim to be the voice for residents and to restore attention to the suburbs that have been neglected.
What is your campaign budget? I’m selffunded, and my campaign budget is conservative.
Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed? I have no donors; I am entirely self-funded.
What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign? I have received support and advice from many local residents and individuals who share my vision for the community. Who will you direct your preferences to? I have not yet made a decision on this.
I have been living in the City of Casey on and off since I migrated to Australia in 2005. Political party (past or present): I am running as an Independent candidate. No political party endorsed or supporting me in this council election.
Occupation, business/employer name: Social worker. Best Friends Disability Services Ltd.
Property interests: No property. Business interests: Best Friends Disability Services Ltd.
Three most important issues for your ward: 1. Rising cost of living. 2. Rates. 3. Crime/ youth crime/drugs/alcohol.
Describe your involvement in the local community: I have been involved in community work my entire life beginning way back in Africa. When I migrated to Australia in 2005, I continued to be involved in community work. I have volunteered at community centres such as the Springvale Community Aid and Advice Bureau. I have also met and worked with various community leaders such as Jason Wood MP – Federal Member for La Trobe. I met with three Australian Prime Ministers discussing community issues and how to improve our community. I have also received several community awards such as the La Trobe Australia Day community award. Whether I am elected to council or not, I will continue to be involved in community work. Community work and helping those who are vulnerable, poor and needy is part of me. Nothing makes me happy than making a difference to somebody’s life and seeing them happy and smiling. Why are you standing for election? I am deeply invested in the growth and welfare of our community. I have recently established a NDIS organisation to cater for people with disability in Melbourne’s South East. I am running for council in Kalora Ward in the City of Casey this October to help address some of the key issues affecting residents such as
the rising cost of living. If elected to council, I will focus on the following; I will work along with Victoria Police to improve community safety. I am a role model and an inspiration to many young people in the community. I will use my influence to advice the youth to stay away from drugs and crime. Support for people with disability. To create better access to services for elderly people. I will fight for lower council rates and lower tip fees. I will never vote to increase your rates. Advocate for fairness in council decision-making. Fix footpaths and potholes in our roads. Stop the wasteful unnecessary council expenditure. Support our local businesses. Protect our parks and gardens. Champion our local sporting clubs. Stop illegally dumped rubbish. I will support discounts for residents in hardship. Remove graffiti from public spaces.
What is your campaign budget? $15,000. I am the first candidate to start campaigning in the Casey council election in Kalora Ward. I have been campaigning for over a year alone without any other candidate in the field. That is why my campaign budget is the biggest or one of the biggest in the Casey Council election. Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed? I do not have any campaign donors. I have not received any single cent from any individual community groups or organisations. The $15,000 is my hard-earned money from my work.
What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign? No councillor or ex-councillor or MP or ex-MP advised my campaign. Who will you direct your preferences to? I do not have a second preference, my preference three goes to Fred Jover, and preference four goes to Brian Oates. The rest of the candidates have preferred each other with me believing that some are dummy candidates. They are dummy candidates because they all appeared within the last month after nomination; meanwhile, I have been campaigning for over a year meeting many residents and hearing their issues and concerns.
By Ethan Benedicto
As the final stages of the election draw near, so does the final tally of the candidates’ expenditures, with transparency of campaign costs throughout the municipality and talks of ‘dummy candidates’ rife in the air as candidates break down the process of campaigning.
For Kalora Ward, Casey independent candidate Jafri Katagara Luwanga has campaigned for 12 months which includes parts of Endeavour Hills and Narre Warren North.
After spending about $15,000 on a campaign including full-gloss leaflets, he says he’s “broke”.
“People say they don’t want to see political parties in council. The problem with running as an independent is you need to spend a lot of money.
“I’m not running to be Prime Minister, just a councillor.”
Luwanga is one of nine candidates vying for Kalora Ward. He says some are ‘dummy’ candidates – a tactic used to harvest preferences for his rivals.
He says if he runs for council again, he’d seek endorsement – and resources – from a political party.
“The council election is for people with money. I don’t have a problem with political parties endorsing candidates because it helps people like me to run for council.”
Luwanga also expressed the importance of monetary wealth when it comes to seeing success in the effectiveness of campaigning.
To Zabi Mazoori, who has allocated, to date, roughly $5000 in spending for his campaign, said that the process has “not been easy”.
“It’s good to be out there and talk to people about the local council, about the issues that are affecting the local community.
“But it’s also not easy when speaking to residents in the area, everyone has different expectations.
“And as an independent, with no party members, I have not had support from anyone else,” he said.
To Brian Oates, he acknowledged that campaigning is stressful and more so expensive, but is something that is needed if someone wants to “get in”.
Oates, who had spent roughly $5000, saw most of his investment, like many others, on pamphlets
and leaflets to be handed out from one door to another.
Pulling his experience on previous elections, Oates is well acquainted with the campaigning, saying that “I’ve been through an awful lot of campaigns, so I know how to get things going.”
“How to talk to people, and so on, but it’s been eight years and a lot of people have completely forgotten about the fact that there are council elections to be held,” he said.
Damien Sawyer, who began campaigning a few months ago, said that it has taken a toll on him, but one that he appreciates; considering the people he has spoken to, the stories he has heard and his eagerness to be able to advocate for the local community.
“It’s been a lot of work, organising posters and graphics, the website, email addresses, so there’s been a lot of hours put in,” he said.
“I’m tired, so I’m looking forward to the end of the race but it’s exciting as well, I’m enjoying it, having my children meet the community and such - and I’ve met some fantastic people doing so.”
Sawyer has allocated $2000 for this campaign and has been accepting anonymous donations from the general public, adamant that he is happy
of the support from the donors, but does not rely on their consistency.
Melinda Ambros on the other hand, understands the importance of campaigning, especially considering that with the lack of councillors, it’s as if the city is “starting a new baby”.
However, as pamphlets and posters go, Ambros remains steadfast in the belief that genuine community connections are the truest form of advocacy.
“I have established networks in Casey because I’ve lived here my whole life, I have a deep connection, I’ve volunteered, been involved with a lot of different communities, different religious backgrounds, different sporting groups and so on,” she said.
“I feel like if you’ve got that, then you don’t need to spend a lot of money on advertising, but for me it’s really about representing the people and wanting to become their voice,” she said.
Ambros, who has spent between $5000 to $6000 focused on mail drops and door-to-door distributions.
“To me, there are going to be 12 people representing a ward, but collectively we’re all responsible for the whole council, and if you’re just doing a campaign to put yourself out there, that’s not what the city needs,” she said.
On the topic of alleged dummy candidates, Luwanga has highlighted their prevalence throughout all the wards in Casey, saying that if these alleged dummy candidates were real, “they
would have begun campaigning a long time ago”.
“There are some who pop out out of nowhere, they just popped out for nominations, you know?
“This should be looked into because when residents find out, especially when they have already voted, they’re not going to be very happy.”
Sawyer, who is running mates with Duc Nguyen and an acquaintance of Peterine Smulders, have preferenced one another after they attended and met at a community meeting.
While he understands where speculations on alleged dummy candidates may come from, he said that for them, it’s all about “engaging in the process”.
“We’re supporting each other, and it’s very much in the spirit of the game, it’s a strategy of appealing to people that are voting along community lines, which many people do.”
Mazoori doubled down on the alleged dummy candidates, saying that in itself is not a council issue, but a Victorian Electorate Commission issue, something for that body to investigate and look into.
“People who are not genuinely a candidate, but only running to support someone else, that makes it hard for the residents to know who is genuine,” he said.
Ambros has an emphasis on focusing on herself and her goals, highlighting that “we’re all adults and we know why people do things”.
“I have no political connections, I’m an independent, and I don’t want to speak on why people do what they do, and the way people conduct themselves, I can’t be responsible for.”
Sawyer expressed greater concern for candidates throughout the ward who have failed to disclose their connections to certain political parties, having been part of the Liberal party prior and discovering his much-preferred stance of independence.
“I think there are a lot of people who are part of a party, and that concerns me more than dummy candidates,” he said.
“I have a deeper concern when groups are running in particular, these stronger political parties, with the broader intention of actually aligning with a political agenda or a party agenda,” he said.
To Oates, the alleged dummy candidates have no “interest in actually getting into the council”, and have been more than evident throughout his years in local government.
From page 8
Brian Oates
Suburb of residence:
Endeavour Hills
How long have you lived in the City of Casey? 42 years.
Political party (past or present):
Occupation, business/employer name: Retired.
Property interests: I own my home.
Business interests: N/A.
Three most important issues for your ward: As with the whole of Casey, trust, communication and lower rates.
Describe your involvement in the local community: I’m involved with many local and several statewide committees 27 years running the 10 multicultural seniors clubs in JP Hall in Doveton, 25 years and life member at SMRC
having been a board member, executive board member, chairperson for over 10 years, acting CEO one year, Casey RRA executive member nine years. Several sub-committees in Casey Council and volunteer for 19 years in Monash Health and several others.
Why are you standing for election? I want to be able to assist new councillors to keep on the right track. I have experience and qualifications to share.
What is your campaign budget? $7000.
Who are your campaign donors? How much have each contributed? No declarable funds.
What councillors, ex-councillors, MPs or exMPs have assisted or advised your campaign? Myself, from CRRA I have assisted some candidates.
Who will you direct your preferences to? See my how-to vote on Facebook BrianOates4Careing Casey.
Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre held its free annual open day on Saturday 5 October, with a focus on community safety.
“There were lots of fun activities for all the family. Myuna Farm Mobile Ark brought their cute farm animals along for a cuddle. Hey Dee Ho got everyone moving with their interactive singalong. Neighbourhood Watch Casey’s KC Dog kept everyone captivated with stories,” a spokesperson for the centre said.
“We had our community heroes from Vic SES volunteers, Ambulance Victoria, and the CFA Cranbourne Fire Brigade.
“Neighbourhood Watch Casey and the City of Casey held information stalls about community safety. City of Casey Sustainability and Waste educated about how to recycle responsibly and taught people how to make bunting, while Monash Health talked to the community about all the options available in a medical emergency.
“Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas came along to join in the fun and support this superb event.”
The spokesperson said they were looking forward to next year’s open day, which would have a theme around diversity and inclusion.
By Ethan Benedicto
As National Carers Week draws nearer, the time to recognise, celebrate and raise awareness of those who provide care to a family member or friend with disabilities is nigh.
To support worker Haeli Walker, it’s more than just acknowledgement - it’s also about embracing the normalcy and commonality of caring for those with disabilities.
Alongside her 11-year-old son, Flynn, both look after Aston, the youngest in the family at 8 years old who was diagnosed with autism, epilepsy and learning delays.
“It’s just a daily task, you know? It’s something that I don’t even think about doing, I just do it to support that person because they go through their own challenges and it’s hard for them to have that guidance,” Haeli said.
The family, who live in Narre Warren East care for Aston through his twice-daily medications, driving to medical appointments, personal care and so on; a role that Haeli would no doubt be exhausted by were it not for the help of her son, Flynn.
Taking responsibility for Aston’s daily routine, helping him dress, his homework and emotional support if he became upset is all part of Flynn’s contribution.
He said that “my caring role, looking after my brother is hard, but I love my brother and the time we spend together”.
Being around family members who had disabilities since a young age, Haeli always had a drive to care for others.
People with disabilities “may feel like they can’t speak up, whereas with others like me helping them, [we] can put them in the right direction”.
“My auntie and uncle both have disabilities and I’ve just always grown up being around people that have needed help, and I thought, I might as well.
“I want to get into this because this is what I enjoy doing, I’ve always had a passion for it and it can be as simple as smiling and listening to that person, it helps them get through their day,” Haeli said.
The same can be said for Flynn, while it can be difficult from time to time, Haeli added that Flynn doesn’t see it as “caring, he just sees it as his brotherly duty”.
“He’s just there to protect his brother, he loves him to bits; even when Aston has his meltdowns,
his ups and downs, he just sees that as ‘oh, that’s my brother’, you know?”
From children to adults, Haeli stressed the importance of how everyone sees one another, and that while acknowledging disabilities is key, one should not shun or disparage people’s being.
“There’s a lot of stigma around, there’s a lot of judgement; back in time when people learned that someone had autistic traits or mental illness, they were just thrown into the asylums,” she said.
“Now we’ve got support in hand, it’s being
recognised, and it needs to be recognised; there needs to be more learned about it, for parents, adults, everyone out there.”
The Walker family receive support from the Villa Maria Catholic Homes (VMCH), who provide aged care, disability, retirement living and education services.
Flynn is supported with school equipment and supplies, as well as access to young carer events with the chance to connect with peers and others in similar situations.
Case manager Nicola Mallinson stresses the importance of recognising young carers in Australia, which according to Carers Victoria, is estimated to be around 71,600, or 1 in 11 people aged under 25.
“We know that most young carers are hidden within our community because they don’t really identify with the term, or grow up without realising that what they are doing is ‘caring’, so there is huge underreporting,” Mallinson said.
Regarding the care provided to the Walker family, Mallinson said that it varies; for Haeli there is a strong focus on finding “more pockets of time for self-care and time for herself”.
“For Flynn, we are trying to make sure that he is able to start the school year with all the equipment and items he needs to jump straight into his education.
“For young people like Flynn, who are so close in age to the siblings they care for, you see them have such a special bond - they are a real pillar of support for their sibling.
“Sometimes this means that when things are tough, you as a young carer can be the first person your sibling turns to and this can have a big impact on you emotionally,” Mallinson said.
Caring is an important role, and for Mallinson, it’s also important that those who provide care, especially younger people, are recognised and made aware of the support that is there for them as well, through peers and programs.
By Violet Li
When Vince Manna covers the room with his collection of rectangular-sized timber species, even the least sensitive person to the wood differences will be awed.
The mosaic floor presents a microcosm of forests. There are over 14,000 samples whose colours and patterns contrast sharply. Most of them were obtained personally when Vince traced the timbers back to their origins.
In the past 50 years, the Keysborough craftsman travelled around the world to collect and research the rarest wood between the intervals of his woodworking. His footprints went far into the remote jungles, forests and tribes of seven continents and some joining islands, where the most exotic timbers stand. The longest venture would be about a year and the short ones lasted variously from two weeks to several months.
“When I travel, I spend a lot of time with the locals, sit down with them, and usually come back home with a few nice samples,” he said.
“But we actually exchange techniques, methods, tools, how you sharpen, how they sharpen, how they sand it, and how they don’t sand it.”
To chase a rare tree in the wild is a meticulous project.
“First of all, you learn where to find the trees, then you learn how to identify the trees by using the bark, the leaves, and the fruit. You learn with the locals how they use the woods to survive,” Vince said.
“Wood is a very important resource to us here. It’s 10 times more important for them.
“They survive on wood, from the shelters to hunting the animals that visit the trees. They use wood to build their huts, their canoes, weapons, and furniture. It’s basic, very simple furniture that they’ll make. Could be the trunk of a tree, I sit on it…
“It’s not just to learn, but also to study how they do it.”
He spoke of his frantic landmark quest for snakewood in the Amazon region of South America. He went back many times to locate the reddish timber and suffered numerous setbacks, including a severe fleshing-eating parasite infection, a gunpoint, and being stranded in a drastic landslide, before finally stumbling upon a felled tree with the help of an Indigenous. Luckily, there were a few juvenile trees around.
The woodseeker waited and returned after two years when the little trees grew.
He brought the wood back to Melbourne, made earrings out of it, and took them all the way to the jungle.
“I gave it to the tribespeople, and they quickly fiddle around with these beautiful things by hanging in their ears,” he said.
“To take them there it’s not like just getting a taxi, you have to go on a canoe for weeks through the jungles.
“You’ll often stop at gunpoint. It’s like a Rambo movie in the sense when you go down the river. Because it’s like in the middle of nowhere, and the middle of nowhere requires special transportation.
“I have been threatened twice, but I was so passionate to do it again and again.”
Photography is an expected derivative skill out of his wood passion, for properly documenting and capturing.
He reflected on his trip to the coast of Argentina, the very tip of South America to see the Forest of Stone in 2009.
“These are ancient trees that fell millions of years ago. They died and they got buried, and then they became petrified with all those minerals washed through it,” he said.
“It’s a petrified forest. This is extraordinary scenery.
“A young lady took me and my friend there overnight. It’s so remote. There were only two or three people there at the time.
“It was incredibly cold. It was freezing at sunrise, but the view we had, it’s just a beautiful place.”
Another unforgettable moment is when he captured the rainbow eucalypts from an “over the rainbow” angle in Hawaii.
“The tree’s actually on the side of the road. To get to this tree was so dangerous because the road was curved. I had nowhere to really stand on the road because the cars could hit you, but yet I had to go down,” Vince recalled.
“It was so slippery. I could not even use a tripod. I had to do it by hand.”
He recalled that his friend even photographed him on the tree with a giant selfie stick that was about 15 metres.
The true lucky moment for the trip was when he set off early in the morning, he was able to capture two massive real rainbows hovering over the
eucalypts.
An inveterate adventurer and wood chaser, Vince admitted that what he had been doing over the years could be very hard to repeat.
“You’ve got to have a specific reason to go many many times to the same place. For me, Brazil, for example, I know there are so many different species of trees there,” he said.
“One year might be targeting this tree, another year might be targeting that tree. But if you have to go all at once, you’d be spending two years there to get around because Brazil is vast.
“So getting around and then you get homesick. You still have to run your business. You can’t
really go and chase 1000 trees in the rainforest, and you’ll be there for 10 years.
“You’ve got to do your thing, come back, start again, book another, might be a different place. That’s how we’re doing it.”
“Very few woodworkers will get to see the trees, get to see what they’re working on. I go there and study with the natives. It’s rare.” he said.
“I wouldn’t do it for the money. I was doing it for the education. I am very much into it.”
The Keysborough craftsman, photographer, and wood collector has been archiving his 50 years of passion-driven works on his Instagram. Visit: instagram.com/roseswood_
by Sahar Foladi
An art exhibition for young talented artists from diverse backgrounds has opened to the public at Connect Art Space in Dandenong.
The exhibition opening was hosted by the Southern Migrant Refugee Centre on Monday 30 September as part of its annual Youth Art Exhibition.
Now in its sixth consecutive year, it’s run through the SMRC STAR Homework Club and Literature Exhibition to help young and talented artists showcase their artwork to the community.
Aspiring artist Mohammed Atae has been in Australia for two years and had two of his artworks on display at the exhibition.
“I don’t have many connections with the community as a new arrival but I wish to continue in this field as it’s my passion,” he says.
A few of his works are on display in Pakistan and America.
One of his artwork, is a figure of a woman (signifies life) and a pot which signifies a materialistic product of this world which has been passed down.
Mohammed used cold and warm colour to symbolise grief, sadness and happiness and beautiful memories human share with each other.
“Life is not just bad or good but it’s a mix of both that every human experiences, not just a few,” he said.
This was Mohammed second exhibition in Melbourne which earned his work the winner or the best artwork within his age group 18-25 years.
He also volunteers with Foundation House to assist new arrivals in the community.
Senior coordinator of Settlement Casework and Engagement, Jesse Boyd says a majority of the young talents have been creating art their whole life but lack the correct platform or the opportunity to display their works with the community.
“For young people it’s very hard to show their work publicly.
“Even if they’re amazing, they have to know someone or understand how to get their work in the gallery which is not accessible for someone especially who has newly arrived and doesn’t understand how the artwork works here.”
The exhibition creates multiple benefits for the artists - social activity, confidence, a chance to invite the community into their own interpretation of life through their artworks and unlocking opportunities.
“They have the opportunity to sell pieces. Our hope is this experience really builds the confidence for young people and shows to them they’re realised just like everyone else.”
A participant from last year was selected for a paid workshop to teach art to a group of youths.
Farishta Ebrahimi is one of the many in the group who has been drawing her whole life as a passion but challenged herself into painting for
this exhibition.
She has produced three artworks, all have a dark component and a single feature of light symbolising there’s always light after darkness, drawing from her own journey of migration to Australia.
“For me, when you migrate, it has its own struggles and challenges but despite all that it means a lot to me to be able to see the light and maintain positivity in these challenges.”
After the Taliban took over in Afghanistan in 2021, Farishta sought refuge in Pakistan while waiting for her visa approval to Australia. It has been only six months since she has arrived and she’s full of hope for a bright future.
The STAR Homework club provide help to young people form the ages of 12-25 with school work, resume and CV, secure employment, assist with scholarship applications and much more.
The Berwick Springs VIEW (voice, interests and education of women) Club has turned 21 years old, with members coming together to celebrate the occasion on Monday 7 October.
Members dressed up to the nines for a special party at the Berwick Springs Hotel, complete with a cake and decorations.
VIEW was founded in 1960 and is a leading women’s organisation with over 15,000 members and 300 clubs across Australia, all joined by the common goal of supporting children in need, via education through The Smith Family.
Members accomplish this via community fundraising, spreading awareness and volunteering, and directly assist more than 1700 students through The Smith Family’s education and support programs.
The Smith Family make enormous changes to over 160,000 children each year through financial aid and mentoring programs.
Currently, the club sponsors 13 Smith Fam-
ily Learning for Life students and is actively involved in fundraising activities to raise donations for The Smith Family programs.
Club president Jeanette Cheney said the celebration also included members from two other VIEW clubs.
“The theme for the day was silver and gold and the ladies made a special effort with their outfits, even a couple of ladies wearing lovely hats,” she said.
“Table decorations featured sparkly centre pieces designed by some of the committee members with a memento of a 21st key ring together with chocolate hearts.
“The birthday cake was in the form of a patty cake tower, also made by a committee member.”
The club meets on the first Monday of each month from 11.15am at Berwick Springs Hotel.
For more information, visit thesmithfamily. com.au/view-clubs/find-a-club/vic/berwicksprings-view-club
Hundreds swarmed to Autumn Place for the return of the annual Celebrate Doveton festival on Friday 4 October.
As part of the family-friendly fun, visitors enjoyed face painting, a stupendous magic show, VR demonstration, animal farms, goodie bags, information stalls and a chance to win a shopping voucher.
Groups such as Doveton Neighbourhood Learning Centre (DNLC), Doveton College, Our Place Doveton, Autumn Place Hub and Doveton Library got behind the day.
The aim was to create an event where everyone feels welcome and celebrated, says DNLC centre manager Paula Correia.
A Doveton College spokesperson said it was “truly a community-driven event”.
“We’ve seen such enthusiasm from students and parents alike. It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with each other outside of the school setting.”
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.
Join us for a free sausage sizzle, with scones and coffee also available for purchase.
• Friday 11 October, 10am – 2pm, 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 12 and 13 October, 2024
Times: 10am – 4pm 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 12 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 50 and over
to learn, share and socialise.The group offers a large variety of activities at its new premises 20-22 Bowen Street in Cranbourne. We still do ballroom dancing and line dancing at Casey Basketball Stadium in Cranbourne. Supported by Casey Council we are a not for profit organisation with a membership fee of $50 per year which allows you to join in as many classes as you wish. If you want to keep your brain and body active, be creative or pursue a passion there is a class for you. Check out the classes on offer at our website www.u3acranbourne.org,au or call 0493 991 919 to learn more.
• Our open day will be on Friday 18th October 10am till 1pm. Come and have a coffee with our members and find out 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-toone basis.
Come along to learn how to play or improve your game.
Word lists and more will be available to increase your skills.
• Contact David on 0433 566 456. Berwick Springs VIEW Club
Affiliated with The Smith Family, the Berwick Springs VIEW Club is a not-for-profit organisation, with the aim to fundraise to support Learning for Life students.
The club currently supports 10 students of varying ages with their education expenses.
The club meets on the first Monday of each month in the Berwick Springs Hotel function room from 11.15am, where members enjoy lunch and then host a guest speaker.
Throughout the year, the club has a couple of special fundraisers, as well as casual morning tea and lunch for interested ladies.
The club is always looking for new members in all age groups.
• For more information, contact Shirley on 0438 191 759 or email berwicksprings.viewclub@ gmail.com
Probus Club of Casey Combined Meetings finish at noon when many of our members assemble for lunch at one of the local cafes.
The club meets at the Old Cheese Factory at 9.45am on the second Tuesday of each month.
BADFolk Club
Berwick and District Folk Club meets on the third Friday of each month.
Doors open at 6.30pm, with the music running from 7pm to 10pm with entry $15.
• For more information, visit badfolkclub.org or contact Edward on 0418 535 264.
By Jonty Ralphsmith
Narre Warren South kayaker Bradley Buissink represented Australia at the under-18s marathon kayaking world championships in Metkovic, Croatia, in September.
The 17-year-old spent 10 days in Europe competing against kayakers his age and a year older, coming 27th out of 37 in the K1 singles and 17th out of 23 in the K1 doubles.
It was Buissink’s first time competing on the international stage and he is setting himself for a better finish next year, when he will be among the oldest competitors in age-capped field.
“It was a great experience to see how I compared to all the other countries around the world and it was an eye opener to how much I can improve and how much I will improve,” Buissink said.
“I got to learn new techniques and methods throughout the racing.
“There were a few mechanical issues throughout the races but considering all that I think the results were pretty good.
“I’m confident I can build up enough endurance and strength to be very competitive with the top guys next year.”
Buissink took up kayaking at the age of eight after watching his Dad take out the esteemed massive Murray Paddle, an annual kayaking event held on the Murray River.
Three years later, Bradley become the youngest competitor in history to complete the event, where racers paddle 400kms across five days.
It followed three years of training thrice per week, and since 2019, his training load has doubled as he’s looked to take his sport to the next level.
“I have to do much more refined exercises; I do a different variation of the bench press called the forward press.; there are more explosive moments,” he said.
“Another big one is a bench pull; the opposite of a bench press (which I do) as explosively as possible, and a lot of running to keep my cardio fitness up.”
Buissink started his journey at Patterson Lakes Canoe Club before transferring to Fairfield Canoe Club, which have supported him more recently as he has trained up to six times per week.
While Buissink’s specialty has been in longerdistance racing, with the marathon world championships raced across more than 20km, he is transitioning to Kayak Sprinting – an Olympic event.
Competing at the kayak sprinting under-18s national championships this year in Penrith, he finished in the middle of the field, but was the highest finisher among the 2007-born paddlers, positioning him well for a podium finish next year.
“My primary focus is to work on sprint as much as possible,” Buissink said.
“My goal is to try and make it to the 2032 Olympics.
“It will give me enough time to mature agewise and strengthen my body to my peak and it’s a home Olympics.”
By Marcus Uhe
The Casey Cavaliers Under 14 Boys basketball team cut the nets off the rings at their home court at Casey Stadium last week after completing an extraordinary undefeated calendar year across five different competitions.
The Under 14 Club Championships was the final in a run of unprecedented dominance for Casey Basketball teams, where they completed their 59th and final win from 59 games across varied competitions and with challenges from all corners of the country.
A squad exploding with envious depth, including seven state-level players, could not be stopped in 2024, dominating whatever competition was thrown their way.
Comprehensive wins in the Eltham-Dandenong Junior Basketball Tournament in January and the South Eastern Junior Basketball Tournament in March sowed the seeds for a special year, before claiming this illustrious ‘Triple Crown’; the National Junior Basketball Classic, the Victoria Junior Basketball League and National Club Championships for their age groups.
From their 59 matches, just four were won with single figure margins, with the Australian Junior Championships seeing them win by an average of 36 points per contest.
“Across the board, all 10 of them are high quality elite athletes,” the team’s coach, Mitch Taylor said.
“For a lot of teams, the stars will play and blow [the lead] out, and then the bench will come on and will kind of cut back in, but for us, the stars will extend the lead and the bench will extend the lead against the other team’s starters as well.
“We’ve got two boys that play for Victoria that come off the bench for us and realistically we don’t consider it a starting five and a bench –it’s just two even groups across the board.”
As word spread about their successes and
extraordinary athletes, including the slamdunking 6’5” 13-year-old Mobarede ‘Barry’ Akingbade, the team quickly took on celebrity status in basketball circles.
A Facebook page initially dedicated to a fundraising effort for the squad reached 2000 followers by the end of their year as word spread about the outrageous successes they experienced.
The players quickly began facilitating photo and pre-game dunk requests from not only fans, but opponents, while the sight of opposition scouts filming their training sessions was not an uncommon sight – nor were post-game jersey swaps.
Rolling into the National Club Championships with customised Nike Air Force sneakers for before and after the game, and ‘Sabrina’
shoes for on the court, with the team name and player numbers etched into them, there was a swagger and prestige about this abundantly talented squad of teenagers that somehow never infiltrated their team-first mentality.
It’s a trait that Taylor believes was arguably their most impressive, declaring their lack of collective ego “amazing”.
“A lot of kids could have cracked it and wanted to score 50 against some of the teams when we were winning by 80 or 90, but they were awesome all year.
“I think the boys realised that all the success we were having was because everyone was being so unselfish, and that was one of the driving factors.
“We were winning games by 60/70 points and the starts are jumping around and going
crazy for the guys that are coming off the bench behind them for making threes, even though we were up by 70.
“Not in a silly way, they were more just happy to see their friends succeed.
“When every single kid on the team is happy for their teammate’s success, you know you’re going to go a long way.”
The successes they’ve experienced are undeniable and will be etched into Casey Basketball folklore, but harder to quantify are the memories and friendships that the players cultivated throughout the year.
Ahead of the National Championships on their home courts in September, the boys spent the week living together in an AirBNB in Narre Warren North to minimise travel constraints and further solidify their already tight bonds.
Given their differing paths and varied ages within the squad, there’s a chance they may never take the court together as a team again, but internally, they’ll be connected forever.
“They’ll look back on how much we won by and that type of thing but most memories for them will probably be staying together at the AirBNB for the whole week, the stuff they did before and after games.
“We got them to jump in a cold bath and do ice baths.
“Watching each other do that and joking around, I think the friendships and how close they get off the court for that week is definitely something they’ll remember more.
“They’ll look back on photos and they’ll think about games but the friendships and how close they got during the week will be more important for them.”
The Basketball Australia U14 Club Champi-
By Marcus Uhe
In what is becoming an annual tradition across Melbourne, the opening round of cricket season has been thwarted by Mother Nature once again.
For the fourth consecutive season, the pentup energy, testosterone and eagerness of Dandenong District Cricket Association (DDCA) Turf cricketers has been suppressed for the first weekend of October with the league citing ‘the State of many grounds in the City of Greater Dandenong and City of Casey.
The DDCA made the decision on Wednesday, 2 October that no Turf cricket will be played over the weekend and formally communicated with clubs on Thursday morning, 3 October.
Putting the stumps in and getting a full day’s play, however, would have been difficult, given nagging October rainfall that has become a traditional enemy of the opening rounds.
After a sunny Saturday morning, significant rain fell in the afternoon, with more than nine millilitres recorded at the Moorabbin Airport weather observation centre between 2 and 5pm.
Dandenong’s opening round of the Premier Cricket Victoria season at Shepley Oval was abandoned at the innings break, having been unable to restart after the interval.
Statistics from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) indicate October is the least ideal time to begin the competition in the region, based on historical rainfall data.
“Down the South East of Melbourne, taking the closest observation point for rainfall around the Pakenham area, Beaconsfield Upper, the median rainfall for October is actually pretty high97.3 millilitres,” Chris Kent from the BOM said on
Friday 4 October.
“Looking throughout the whole year at this particular location, October is the wettest on average throughout the year.
“88 ml is the average through October and 81 ml in November.
“September is only 79 ml and through Winter, 83 ml in June.
“When you look at it that way, getting washed out in October is probably something that probably happens a fair bit, given it’s the wettest month of the year.
“Looking at last year in October, there was 110 ml recorded.”
Kent says the drastic juxtaposition between hot and cold temperatures is not isolated to Melbourne, and is reflective of the weather patterns across the country.
“(In) October you are starting to see some warmer temperatures developing especially across warmer parts of the country and the volatility of Spring comes from the sharp temperature change between cold and warm.
“When you get those two areas mixing and you get a cold front moving through and dragging down a lot of that heat from inland, and mixing with the cooler air across southern Australia, that’s where the volatility comes from in terms of the weather.
“Come Summer time, that temperature gradient between north and south isn’t that strong, so it tends to be a bit more stable.
“October, you’re starting to see those warmer temperatures in the north.
“Currently across northern Australia it is quite warm.
“For October, we are expecting temperatures across Melbourne and the south east… the chance of exceeding the average temperature to be quite high.
“We are expecting some warmer than average temperatures through that part, hence the volatility could be a little more on the higher side and we’ll get those drastic shifts in weather.”
With further rain expected in the coming weeks, it could force a major reshuffle of the DDCA’s fixtures for later in the season.
Unlike previous years, the competition begins in the three Turf grades with six One Day matches before donning the whites for the first in midNovember in round seven.
“For the forecast over the next couple of weeks, it’s still looking like you could see a little bit of rainfall on the cards,” Kent said.
“Starting next week and going by the climate outlook, you could still see around 2-13 millilitres through the area.”
The prospects of the matches being replayed at a later date remains to be seen.
Last summer, round one was replayed on Sunday, 10 December, after the original fixtures date, Saturday 7 October, was abandoned due to weather conditions.
The DDCA was contacted for comment.
By Marcus Uhe
It’s a win that Casey-South Melbourne could well reflect on come the season’s pointy end as being as critical as any in what is expected to be another hotly-contest Premier Cricket season.
Just two points separated positions three to six last summer, highlighting the importance of every single contest in the competition, and luck was on the Swans side on Saturday in the midst of a spate of wash outs across Melbourne.
Despite a depleted First XI due to injuries and availability, Casey-South Melbourne successfully defended 174 in a cold, wet and windy one-day contest against Frankston-Peninsula at Frankston.
The Swans’ veteran bowling attack kept the Heat to just 159 in reply, ensuring Devin Pollock’s steely 33 with the bat went rewarded.
Coming to the crease at 3/53 after the top three fell for single-figure scores, the stand-in captain formed a crucial partnership with Chris Bedenek to stabilise the innings.
Pollock top-scored for the Swans with an innings that made his injured skipper Luke Shelton beam with pride.
“That’s ‘Dev’ to a tee and that’s why I love ‘Dev’ as a cricketer,” Shelton said.
“He’d be the first to admit that it was a pretty scratchy 30 – he got dropped once or twice and didn’t hit much out of the middle at all, but he’s a fighter and managed to fight through to get us to a decent enough score.
“We probably just needed a couple of senior heads to get together for an hour to wrestle some momentum, and Dev and Chris Bedenek did that.
“They were both extremely disappointed to get out when they did but in hindsight, that partnership probably got us to a score we were able to defend.”
With the ball, the trio of Jackson Fry, Nathan Lambden and Kellapotha were at their miserly best, working well in tandem to strangle the Heat’s chase.
Lambden picked up where he left off from a brilliant summer last season, removing opener
Nicholas Taranto in the opening over of the chase to immediately give the Swans the upper hand.
The home side’s top order offered little resistance outside of Charlie Maxwell, and at 4/34 in the eighth over, the Heat was forced back into their shells.
Maxwell was the key wicket, the only player to pass 50 in the afternoon, striking at just shy of a run a ball, with plenty of boundaries to put the pressure back on the bowling attack.
When debutant Jack Stevenson dismissed him for 58, the game took another sharp swing.
To that stage in the innings, Maxwell had
made 58 of the Heat’s 80 runs, and when he became Stevenson’s first victim in Casey-South Melbourne red, the Swans were jubilant.
“He was looking to score coming after our bowlers and hitting the ball really cleanly,” Shelton said of Maxwell.
“That wicket was massive and the rest of them were looking to occupy the crease, survive and chew-up balls, which might have been their downfall in the end.
“As soon as he went out, we were able to suffocate them a bit and when it was time, when they had no choice but to try and score, they got out.”
A 49-run stand for the sixth wicket brought the Heat back into the contest, before Stevenson and Fry combined to break it at 6/129.
The tail offered some resistance, but fell away dramatically, losing their final four wickets for eight runs to finish 15 shy.
Kellapotha’s economy was finally rewarded late in the innings, taking two wickets in the tail to finish with 2/24 from nine overs.
Despite a meagre total to defend, Shelton never wavered in his confidence that his bowlers could get the job done with ball.
Having blown out the cobwebs, the Swans now set themselves for a massive pair of upcoming fixtures at home against two sides they defeated on the way to last year’s grand final, in Prahran and Ringwood.
“We’ve built a DNA in the last few years that, whether we’ve got 400 on the board or 100, we want to bowl, field and play a similar way,” Shelton said.
“I wasn’t too stressed about the runs we had on the board, because I knew if we bowled to our potential, we would bowl them out and have enough runs.
“We were one of the two ‘lucky’ games to be completed and if the result had have gone the other way, we would have been behind the eight-ball a little bit.
“We were fortunate that we did get the win, but we’re still extremely confident in our squad and what we’ve got at our disposal.
“Fingers crossed we can progress keep building and bank as many wins as possible and finish as high as possible, so that potential couple of extra points doesn’t make or break us come to the last round, and we’re already in a really strong position.”
Shelton will miss the next four weeks as he recovers from a back injury, while Harry Hoekstra won’t return from India in time for round two, currently touring with the Australian Under 19 side, and Ash Chandrasinghe’s availability will be dependent on Victorian Sheffield Shield selection.
By Jonty Ralphsmith
Narre North Foxes junior Noah Mraz is the wildcard of the 2024 draft class.
Any mention of a mobile key defender causes ears to spruik up in the talent pathway industry.
Quality talls are hard to find; key defenders even moreso.
The basketballer turned footballer has been restricted to just three appearances in 2024 due to injury, which creates an interesting proposition for AFL clubs.
In a midfield-dominant draft crop, his scope is particularly intriguing; key-position players can be hit-and-miss at the best of times, and taking a player with essentially no exposure in his topaged season - he was unknowingly hampered by the navicular injury in the three games he played in 2024 - carries risk.
But his form and rate of improvement across 2022-23 was so compelling that some still think he can overcome the setbacks to go in the first two rounds.
The AFL Academy prospect has put on nine kilograms of muscle since his injury, impressing those in the industry with his attitude towards his recovery.
Another factor to consider is his relatively late commitment to the game; prior to playing for the Stingrays’ under-16s in April 2022, he had no representative footy under his belt.
He was close to giving up footy entirely following 2021, before the Stingrays’ call flipped his script.
Mraz was a Vic Metro level basketballer as a teen, which has given him dexterity that he can translate into footy, and means he still has so much to learn.
“I say now I want to be a footy player but it was a basketballer first,“ Mraz recalls.
“I dreamed of playing in the NBA.
“I was never going to get there obviously but basketball was always first growing up – football was something I just did once a week, I barely trained.
“I would have a kick around, leave, then go to basketball.“
At 198cm with excellent athleticism and good skills for a tall, multiple clubs view him in the top
echelon of key defenders.
After being encouraged to trial with the Stingrays as a 16-year-old in 2022, he impressed those in the industry with his raw skillset, which led to selection for Vic Country at the under-16s national championships, and a late season debut for Dandenong.
A strong 2023 followed, showing his versatility for Dandenong and playing a game for Vic Country as a bottom-ager, where he was an aerial presence in the backline.
Despite growing up as a forward, it’s behind the footy where he’s made his mark, shutting down multiple now AFL-listed key pillars including Archer Reid and Jordan Croft during the 2023 Coates League season.
Mraz averaged 11 disposals and three marks
in his 12 CTL games in 2023, but the clearest sign of his potential was his ability to not get outmarked and win one-on-ones.
The ruthlessness which is pushing him to work harder than anyone off-field in 2024 is shown on-field when he’s given the opportunity to lockdown.
“I love playing teams who have a good forward and seeing my name next to them ,” Mraz said.
“My favourite part about being a defender is getting a matchup and beating them.
“I love that competitive part of it, thinking ‘you’re not going to touch the footy’.
Amplifying the frustration of the injury has been the fact that Mraz graduated year 12 last year, believing he would have plenty of time to prepare himself for a productive season in be-
tween his teaching degree.
“It’s been pretty disappointing,” Mraz said.
“Everything that could have gone wrong, did go wrong.
“It gave me a chance to work on a few deficits while not playing but with the injury, I didn’t get to do much but I feel like my attitude was alright throughout it.
“At the start of the year I thought it was perfect, I will have so much time to train, play footy do all this extra work but it didn’t work out.”
The AFL National Draft will take place on Wednesday 20 November and Thursday 21 November before the preseason and rookie drafts the following day.
By Marcus Uhe
Participation ribbons will not satisfy new Beaconsfield coach Mick Cronin in Turf 1 this summer as the Tigers aim to make waves in their second year at the upper echelon of the Dandenong District Cricket Association.
Cronin and new captain Susantha Pradeep are charged with leading the Tigers through their next stage of progression as they look to establish themselves as a mainstay in Turf 1, with Cronin declaring his side will play with intent.
“We’ve spoken about how we want to play an attacking brand of cricket,” Cronin said.
“Obviously we need to be a little bendy when it arises but we’re going to attack where clubs will expect us not to do that.
“It’s not ‘let’s hang on and try to get 300 runs’, it’s all about ‘when can I attack?’.
“That might bring us undone in some games but that’s the way we need to be to be a strong side in the future in Turf 1.
“We’re not making up the numbers, put it that way - we don’t want to be seen as that.”
Beaconsfield’s first season in Turf 1 saw them avoid the perils of recent sides by holding its ground and not suffering the dreaded slip down the grades.
They struggled with the bat, making just two scores of over 200 for the season in two-day cricket, with a heavy reliance on the departed captain/coach Mark Cooper to save the day with the blade time and again.
The dogged veteran spent countless hours at the wicket absorbing new-ball pressure at the
top of the order and grafted 463 runs with four fifties to earn Team of the Year selection.
The bowling department has suffered significantly over the offseason too, with three of the top five wicket takers from last summer, in Cooper, Trishane De Silva and Yohan Arumadura all having changed their colours.
Pradeep is a ‘more than adequate” replacement to succeed Cooper in the eyes of his coach, with the two sharing a long-fostered relationship having crossed paths at Buckley Ridges, while a focus on the emerging talent at Perc Allison will see a young side plying their trade more often than not.
“We’re very very happy with where we’re sitting at the moment but for us it’s more the mental side with the young guys - they’re lacking it a little bit so I’m working overtime with that,” Cronin said.
“It’s all about the youth - it’s not about ‘I want this guy to play because he’s been around the club’, that happened last year and the year before I’ve been told, and that’s not happening on my watch, it’s all about the youth.
“In saying that, if some of the older fellas do perform really strong too, there will be an opportunity there as well.
“Mainly young players, that’s what we’re aiming for.”
Cronin’s first game at the helm of the Tigers comes on Saturday when the Tigers head to Narre South to tackle the Lions, before meeting a pair of finalists from last season in Buckley Ridges and Hallam Kalora Park in the following fortnight.
