News - Pakenham Officer Star News - 10th October 2024

Building it big

At Pakenham Library last week, local construction teams building local road upgrades hosted school holiday fun with Let’s Brick Pakenham.

The Big Build blocks provided by Pakenham Roads Upgrade were incredibly popular with the 200 up-and-coming engineers, builders and planners attending the event, building their own bridges and roads just like the bigger engineers do.

Story page 2

Local kids at Let’s Brick Pakenham event last week. (Supplied)

Main Street divide

By Corey Everitt

The revitalisation of Main Street will continue to be a crucial project in the next council term and some candidates vying for the centre of Pakenham are split on the hot-button issue.

Most candidates agree it must go forward as is while one declared that the project ‘lacks vision’.

Stage 1 of the Pakenham Revitalisation Project was set to start in September right before the council election, but the jewel on the crown of the 2020-2024 term was snatched away after the council could not secure a tender within budget.

Nonetheless, the council is still eager to revamp the centre of town including incumbent Henty Ward councillor Carol Ryan who is seeking her third term this election.

“Main Street is in need of a facelift, as it hasn’t had an upgrade since about over 31 years ago, so I think it’s well overdue,” Ryan said.

Fellow candidates Liz Roberts and Cecilia Mphande also believe that residents in general agree that Main Street needs a revamp.

But Shoheli Sunjida said the current plan is a ‘joke’ and that it falls short of a true change that would benefit Pakenham.

“The current Pakenham Revitalisation Project lacks vision. What is being proposed is far from innovative—it’s a joke. It won’t benefit the community and is simply a waste of ratepayers’ and taxpayers’ money,” Sunjida said.

“We need to be thinking about the next 100 years, not just patching up today’s issues. After speaking with local business owners and community members, the consensus is clear: we need to transform Main Street and the surrounding area into a vibrant destination, something akin to Fountain Gate and Casey Ark.”

The Pakenham Revitalisation Project includes 12 stages, with Main Street being stage 1, that aims to develop the overall town centre.

The remaining 11 stages do not yet have a detailed design or funding, the council does promise that these will all be delivered in the ‘next ten years’.

“Why can’t we aim higher and create more lo-

cal jobs to help our youth enter the workforce?” Sunjida said.

“With more entertainment facilities, a 50-metre pool, hydro pool, and perhaps a wave pool, Pakenham could attract not only local residents but people from Warragul, Gippsland, and surrounding suburbs.

“The proposed day surgery hospital feels like an insult. If we need a hospital, let’s build a proper one in the old shire building area and link it to the Main Street shopping area we envision.”

Ryan, Roberts and Mphande all noted that they had heard of, or personally held, concerns about parking, traffic and accessibility.

Mphande said she would form a ‘Main Street Central and Gateway Project Taskforce’ to represent the board range of residents’ interest in the project as well as look into accessibility for those with mobility issues.

Roberts said that ‘not enough is known publicly’ for some of the important questions, but flagged concerns about the construction of the Pakenham Community Hospital without going as far as Sun-

jida’s opposition to its proposed location.

“Removing parking when the impact on parking supply with the Pakenham Community Hospital build and Pakenham Place re-development, both pending, could be problematic. Again, not enough is known publicly,” Roberts said.

“Similarly, the impacts on traffic behaviour with the alteration to the road layout in the town centre through the re-alignment of John St for the hospital is another potential local change that might have flow-on impacts.”

Ryan raised the amount of drivers going over the 40km/h limit and doing ‘U-turns in Main Street’ combined with residents ‘not using the crossings’ has both pedestrians and drivers ‘at risk’. She hopes the development of John and Main Street roundabouts in the project will ‘make a difference’ to traffic flow.

The current design aims to reduce parking spaces on Main Street by instituting parallel parking and accommodating that with parking spaces around the town centre.

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More delays again

Pakenham road users are advised of upcoming road closures as part of the Pakenham Roads Upgrade project, with delays and detours in place.

The citybound exit from the Princes Freeway to Healesville-Koo Wee Rup Road is closed until mid-November for Princes Freeway upgrade works, with road users advised to take the following exit at McGregor Road and use either the Princes Highway or Southeast Boulevard to reach Healesville-Koo Wee Rup Road.

The Warragul-bound entry ramp will also remain closed until mid November.

Healesville-Koo Wee Rup Road between Southeast Boulevard and Peet Street, including both citybound freeway ramps, will be closed from 8pm to 5am on Wednesday 9 October and Thursday 10 October, with detours in place via Southeast Boulevard, McGregor Road and the Princes Highway with delays of up to 15 minutes expected.

Pakenham’s little engineers

They were stacking ’em in Pakenham as part of the Pakenham Roads Upgrade (PRU) school holiday fun at Let’s Brick Pakenham.

Sharing the school holiday fun at Pakenham Library last week, PRU teams were part of the celebrations with plenty of up-and-coming engineers, builders and planners.

The Big Build blocks were incredibly popular with the 200 attendees across the event, building up their own Pakenham bridges and roads just like the bigger engineers do.

Lego was the go as the kids set to work on creating the next great Big Build in Pakenham brickby-brick.

They were laying the foundation for their first construction projects while teams talked to plenty of parents about the works happening on the Pakenham Roads Upgrade.

Family Funerals

From these little builds all the way up to the major projects in town this year, there are plenty of big things happening in Pakenham, with works on the Pakenham Roads Upgrade continuing to take shape.

McGregor Road has reopened and cars riding on the new bridge over the Princes Freeway, crews are now shifting attention to upgrading the McGregor Road city-bound freeway entry ramp and completing the new traffic light intersections at the Healesville-Kooweerup Road freeway interchange.

The Big Build Roads team are closing the Princes Freeway in both directions between McGregor Road and the Nar Nar Goon interchange 6pm to 5am on Wednesday 9 October and Thursday 10 October.

This will allow for the installation of traffic sensors, light poles and freeway signs.

Detours will be in place via McGregor Road and Princes Highway.

It’s all part of over $1 billion of major infrastructure works happening in Pakenham with the Pakenham Roads Upgrade, the recently completed Healesville-Kooweerup Road Upgrade and the Pakenham Level Crossing Removal. Let’s Brick Pakenham has been

school

Candidates debate Main Street

From page 1

Sunjida disagreed with this plan, saying it would ‘significantly reduce’ parking that would ‘severely impact’ local business and the parking in Pakenham Place is ‘unsuitable’ for senior citizens, people with disabilities and people with prams or shopping trolleys to ‘navigate safely’ to Main Street.

“We live in Melbourne, where the weather is famously unpredictable - sometimes four or five seasons in a single day. So, is it feasible to expect people to park far from their destination and manage these obstacles in such conditions? The answer is clearly no,” Sunjida said.

The small but significant section of business on Main Street emerged as a critical voice on both the project itself and it’s council’s roll-out of it.

Late last year, the council engaged in extensive consultation with traders that proved a rather turbulent affair as they worried about the impact the project’s construction would have on their business as well as the future implications on parking and forms of access through the street.

“Their concerns need to be taken seriously, and the ‘on hold’ decision and uncertainty has had negative impacts for several businesses already,” Roberts said.

“I’ve heard varying views from traders and other stakeholders on their engagement experience. There is always a need to be clear about what is and isn’t negotiable when working through a community consultation process.”

Ryan, who played a heavy role in the community consultation, said there were concerns raised about the process.

“As a councillor you are their representative, it is very important to bring the traders on the journey of this project, by keeping them well informed in reference to construction, but listening and validating their concerns of how it is or will affect their businesses and livelihood,” she said.

Mphande has heard complaints about lack of consultation from residents and said a renewed push for the project would include ‘effective communication’.

“Inform relevant stakeholders, regularly, timely, with updates to engage everyone,” Mphande said.

Sunjida said the consultation ‘failed completely’ where the council just ‘ticked the boxes’ and traders were left ‘dissatisfied’.

“We need genuine consultation, bringing all relevant people into the same room at the same time to discuss concerns and solutions,” Sunjida said.

“This needs to be a collective effort, not a decision made by a handful of councillors and staff.“

Candidate Stephanie Grigg was contacted for comment.

held over the

holidays. (Supplied)

Exits off Princes Highway into Pakenham are continuing to take shape as part of the Pakenham Roads Upgrade project. (Supplied)

Main Street, Pakenham. (File: 333779)

Fast response to gas leak

A rapid response from the Toomuc CFA fire brigade and the relevant gas company quickly brought a ruptured gas pipeline under control in Pakenham on Wednesday 9 October.

A CFA spokesperson said CFA responded to reports of a ruptured gas main at around 8.35am on Thewlis Rd in Pakenham.

“One CFA unit from Toomuc attended the scene alongside FRV,” the spokesperson said.

“Crews arrived to find a significant gas leak and contacted the relevant gas company.

“The incident was deemed under control at 8.44am.”

VicEmergency released the initial alert at 9.29am and then released a Community Information warning at 9.50am, warning locals that a gas pipeline had been ruptured near the intersection of Thewlis Road and Cemetery Road in

Pakenham, with nearby residents advised they may smell gas in the area and to avoid the area while emergency services responded to the incident. With a section of Thewlis Road closed off, crews remained on scene into the morning to ensure the site and nearby properties remained safe while the rupture was repaired.

Work safety roadshow front and centre for Pakenham

For Health and Safety Month, WorkSafe Victoria paid a special visit to Pakenham to promote better health and well-being in the office or shop floor.

WorkSafe held their event at the Cardinia Cultural Centre on Wednesday 9 October as part of its tour around the state promoting safe and healthy workplaces.

The free event kicked off with a breakfast before WorkSafe inspectors addressed local issues and took questions from the audience to provide tips on how to prevent workplace harm.

In the Southern Metro area, containing Cardinia alongside five other council areas, ’body stressing’ was the most common cause of injury, followed by falls, slips and trips and hits by moving objects in 2023-24. Healthcare, construction and manufacturing were the most common industries for claims to Worksafe in

the last year.

Attendees at the event also heard about the process of getting back to work after an injury, including common challenges and solutions along the way, and the support available for injured workers and their employers.

WorkSafe also shone a spotlight on hazardous manual handling, which is a leading cause of workplace injury, before a discussion on recent changes to welding fumes exposure standards and the control measures that are available to help reduce the risk.

A light lunch was held, bringing together local businesses and WorkSafe specialists before the event was brought to a close.

The state-wide roadshow will be followed by a week-long series of webinars towards the end of October.

You can register for more upcoming WorkSafe events at worksafe.vic.gov.au/events The event was held on Wednesday 9 October.

Amy Shearer (return to work inspector).

Kevin Hayes, region director field operations east.

Christey Nelson (return to work inspector).

Natalie Heriot (advisor) and Taylah Harders (group leader). (Gary Sissons: 435874)

The gas leak was temporarily visible. (Gary Sissons: 436773)

One unit from Toomuc CFA attended the incident. (Matthew Sims)

Legal service launched

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

‘Superb event’: Community Safety Day a success

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 sing-along. 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.

Cranbourne CFA, from left, Steve Howard, Mitchell Newman, Zoe Russell, Deb Jackson, Ashley Jackson. (Rob Carew: 435406)

The staff from Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre. (435406)

Casey Lions Club volunteers from left, Faye, Mary, Norma. (435406)

SMLS chief executive Kristen Wallwork, Justice Q community development worker Fiona Vuong and founding lawyer Kavitha Sivasamy. (Gary Sissons: 426599)

Sasja Sÿdek addresses the Justice Q launch. (Gary Sissons: 426599)

NEWS Brewing a cuppa of hope

By Matthew Sims

The Salvation Army Pakenham Corps is hoping to help more locals battle their social isolation with the popular Hope Cafe initiative expanding.

With the Bald Hill Road site open for all from 10am to noon on Mondays as part of Hope Cafe, which offers people a chance to catch up with a cuppa and a free feed, the corps will now be opening its doors from 10am to noon for Hope Cafe on Thursdays, starting this week.

Salvation ministry team leader Pip Proellocks said the initiative is a popular part of people’s weekly activities

“It’s for people who want to have some company,“ she said.

Ms Proellocks said the initative usually attracts 40 to 50 people per week.

“It seems to be a growing need,“ she said.

Lieutenant Colonel Denis Lorimer said the program is in line with the Salvation Army’s overall mission.

“It fits extremely well with us as a Christianbased organisation, we are always working with the people who are at risk,“ he said.

“We need to look after those who are finding life a bit difficult living on their own.

“They come out of their shell.“

Lt Col Lorimer said one of their regular volunteers was “extremely shy“ when he first joined the corps, but has now grown into being an essential part of the team.

“He takes incredible pride in the work that he does,“ he said.

“A lot of our volunteers come on board through our community assistance program.“

The Pakenham Corps is also changing its Sunday morning schedule, with the congregation deciding to move its community lunch to 11.30am, followed by its church service at 12.30pm.

For more information on the Pakenham Corps’ activities and services, visit salvationarmy. org.au/locations/victoria/v160/pakenham-corps

Free Kinder: Enrol for 2025.

Free Kinder is available for three- and four-year-old children in Victoria at participating services. Free Kinder is available in sessional (standalone) and long day care (childcare) settings, saving families up to $2,563 each year, per child.

At kindergarten, your child will:

• learn language, literacy and numeracy skills through play, art, music and dance

• learn to express themself and make friends in a safe and caring environment

• build skills and confidence before primary school.

Contact your preferred kinder service or local council to learn about how to enrol for 2025. Visit vic.gov.au/kinder

Salvation Army Pakenham Corps operations manager Leanne Martin, Doorways co-ordinator Amanda Fleming and ministry team leader Pip Proellocks. (Matthew Sims)

Rural living issues in Casey

By Violet Li

As Cranbourne Gardens Ward has its unique landscape in Casey with major parts being rural and semi-rural, Star News spoke to candidates in the coming City of Casey election on the issues and concerns rural land occupiers are facing.

Candidate Mary Beth Melton said she had heard significant concerns from landowners around schools and places of worship being approved to be built in the green wedge areas.

“This is concerning for residents due to additional traffic that the roads are not equipped to manage, the aesthetic of buildings creating an eyesore on our beautiful natural views, the impact on the habitats for our native animals as well as the destruction of our native fauna and lastly, the irreparable damage that this construction does to our precious farmland,” she said.

“People feel like we are chipping away at this resource and albeit the approval of one building might appear to have a small impact, it is the repeated approval that adds up.

“If elected, I will be exploring what role our council has in this, in terms of approving the permits and calling for a review of our communities’ and council priorities.

“We need to stop approving these permits as a stopgap solution until we can review our position and solidify our stance on this sort of urban development in our green wedge spaces.”

Ms Melton said the council should explore advocating to the State Government and the Minister for Planning to review the Victorian Planning Provisions amendment VC103 in 2013 that allowed the approval of urban uses for Green Wedge land to further protect the resource and make it more difficult for rich developers or businesses or lobby groups to challenge council in VCAT.

Candidate Tamas Kapitany, a rural landowner himself, said the biggest issue for rural landowners was the considerable costs to maintain large properties, particularly with rate increases.

“One of the problems is the restriction of activities allowed, like the removal of vegetation whether it is invasive or not,” he said.

“Now it is even to the point where the council attempts to control what types of trees and shrubs we plant. Council has used excessive policies with regards to storing old cars, and sea containers on properties, regardless that the regulations don’t restrict it.

“People have sold up and moved as a consequence of intimidation. Even affordable recycled asphalt commonly used in many properties has been targeted by the council.”

Mr Kapitany said Cranbourne Gardens Ward was extremely neglected.

“Ever since the City of Casey absorbed this area and shut down Cranbourne Council, we have been forgotten about. They overrate us and give us little in return,” he said, adding “small hobby businesses should be allowed to be developed”.

“There are very few jobs for locals…

“We are a neglected rural community without proper representation and with very little possibility of change.”

Candidate Michelle Crowther said residents

had expressed feeling neglected by Casey Council.

“Many rural landowners with larger properties pay higher rates due to higher property valuations but feel they receive fewer services in return compared to suburban areas. This frustration is exacerbated by rising rates without a corresponding improvement in local amenities,” she said.

“Communities, particularly in coastal areas, have repeatedly raised the need for better public and disabled toilet facilities, especially as the number of day visitors increases. I have met some

OPINION

volunteers who are stepping up to maintain the area, even cleaning up waste and rubbish left behind by visitors.

“Many landowners feel that the council is slow in processing development applications, hindering their ability to improve or manage their land efficiently.”

Ms Crowther said she would work with the council to expedite building approvals and address critical needs like public toilet facilities, particularly for the coastal communities, advocate for a review of rate structures to ensure more equitable rates for rural areas and advocate for

equitable funding for all parts of Casey to ensure the ward was not neglected.

Ms Crowther also said she would also advocate to protect the purpose and character of the Green Wedge areas.

“Development should align with the area’s character and avoid negatively impacting the local environment and community,” she said.

Advocating for immediate pest control solutions and sustainable pest management programs are also among Ms Crowther’s preliminary strategies if she is elected.

THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN

Thumbs down

To the empty shopping precinct alongside all the lovely open spaces being created under the rail line in Pakenham. Such a sad sight.

Thumbs up

To the great team at Casey Council who organised and participated in the Ageing Positively Festival at the Old Cheese Factory in Berwick. A small group of us from Selandra Rise Retirement Village attended the rock concert and expo. We all had a fabulous day.

Thumbs down

To the really long grass from Army Road all the way to Nar Nar Goon.

amazing

Cranbourne Gardens Ward candidate Michelle Crowther. (Stewart Chambers: 390923)

Cranbourne Gardens Ward candidate Tamas Kapitany.

Cranbourne Gardens Ward candidate Mary Beth Melton.

Glenn Parmansche takes Boom Mountain over the jumps at the Tonimbuk Equestrian Centre on Saturday for the 2024 Lillico and District Pony Club and Open Show Jumping Day. (427982)

Row over Facebook posts

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 anony mous.

“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

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.

Former Casey councillor Gary Rowe in 2017. (Victoria Stone-Meadows: 166911)

Support, strength in care

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.

The Walker family, from left to right: Haeli, Flynn and Aston. (Supplied)

Hog’s Breath sizzles

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.

New arrivals inspired by art exhibition

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

Business facts

TAKING CARE

ASH OF BUSINESS

This week I thought I would share some interesting business facts from the Australian Bureau of Statistics and other sources:

· Around 97.2 per cent of business in Australia are small businesses (0-19 employees).

· New South Wales has the most business (896,485) of any state or territory and the highest number of businesses per person (~0.105 per person).

· Construction is Australia’s biggest industry in terms of the number of businesses trading (452,820).

· Healthcare and social assistance is biggest for number of people employed (1.66m).

· Only 76.5 per cent of Australian businesses survive past their first year of trading.

· Around 97.2 per cent of business in Australia are small businesses (0-19 employees).

· Businesses involved in oil and gas extraction have the highest average profit margin (58.2 per cent).

· Business involved in exploration and other mining support service recorded the lowest average profit margin (-6.8 per cent).

· Small businesses employ over 5 million people of 42 per cent of the Australian workforce.

· Amazon.com employees spend two days every two years working at the customer service desk — even the CEO — in order to help all workers understand the customer service process.

· 64 per cent of small businesses start with $10,000 or less in startup capital.

· Only 40 per cent of businesses have a defined business plan.

· The most common reason for small business failure is a lack of cash flow

· An Australian man once tried to sell New Zealand on eBay.

· The most productive day of the workweek is Tuesday.

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.

· McDonald’s first food was the hot dog, not the hamburger.

· In response to China’s air pollution, a Chinese millionaire started selling cans of fresh air for $0.80 and made over $6 million in 10 months.

· It has been scientifically proven that praise (rather than criticism) is the best way to help employees improve.

· Bill Gates, the founder of Microsoft, was a college dropout.

· Lentil as Anything, a successful Australian restaurant, allows its customers to pay whatever price they want to pay for the food.

Ian Ash ACC, AIECL, AInstIB Managing Director OrgMent Business Solutions - www.ombs.com.au

Young artists with their friends and family along with the SMRC coordinators who made the exhibition happen. (Stewart Chambers: 433854)

A suspicious fire has gutted the former Hog’s Breath Cafe in Eumemmerring. (Gary Sissons: 436008)

Fire crews, including an aerial applicance, battled the blaze at the former Hog’s Breath Cafe in Eumemmerring. (Gary Sissons: 436008)

Fire crews at the smouldering ruins of the former Hog’s Breath Cafe in Eumemmerring. (Gary Sissons: 436008)

IAN

FOCUS ON … EDUCATION CHOICES

Nurturing every child

St Clare’s Catholic Primary School continued to grow this year and now has an enrolment of about 600 students. As part of the parish of St Patrick’s in Pakenham, the school is on site with the Early Learning Centre and the Officer campus of St Francis Xavier College. This provides a seamless transition from early childhood to secondary education with state-of-the-art facilities.

Each learning space has been designed by education award-winning architects to provide a rich environment conducive to relevant, meaningful learning. Areas are spacious and wellresourced so as to meet the diverse needs of all learners. Our final stage of landscape and garden works recently completed includes a new playground and sports field.

Before your children even come to school, you, as parents, have taught them so much. They’ve learned to listen, to ask questions, to be filled with wonder, to say thank-you, to wash their hands, to pick up after themselves and to look out for each other.

Our job at St Clare’s is to continue these life lessons and nurture the holistic development of each child. For the St Clare’s family, numeracy and literacy skills are core elements of education;

but so is Religious Education – developing empathy, social justice and a strong moral compass. We encourage active play and healthy bodies; understanding other cultures through learning languages; and the confidence that comes with developing creativity through the performing and visual arts.

Digital technology is also an integral part of the learning experience in our connected world and at St Clare’s we emphasise a student’s capacity for safety, courtesy, critical literacy and independent learning online using the most current mobile learning technologies.

Student achievement is measured not only by academic growth but by each child’s emotional, social and spiritual wellbeing. Being part of faithfilled community instils our students with a sense of identity, a feeling of belonging and above all, a powerful sense of self-worth.

At St Clare’s our aim is to have each child reach their potential; to be a well-rounded individualwithin a supportive and caring learning environment.

Please phone to book a tour 5940 6777 or email enrolments@stclaresofficer.catholic.edu.au

Our supportive approach and one-on-one time make a great option for young minds looking for alternative education for Year 9 to Year 12.

ECG is ideal for the young learners who are:

aged 15-20 years seeking individualised learning looking for holistic development and overall wellbeing looking to develop emotional and personal skills interested in gaining applied learning and practical life skills seeking a supportive community with an inclusive environment

has

Join ECG Secondary College and start shaping your future with us.

St Clare’s our aim is to have each child reach their potential; to be a well-rounded individual - within a supportive and caring learning environment.

FOCUS ON … EDUCATION CHOICES School, but differently

You’re so welcome here exactly as you are. At ECG Secondary College (ECG), we value and celebrate each student’s unique journey.

Our Learning is based on our ECG T.H.R.I.V.E Learning Model which provides a Therapeutic environment for learning that is focused on Holistic development of skills for success in life, positive and nurturing Relationships, Individualised approaches to learning through individual education plans and differentiated instruction, a Vocational pathway focus with links to VET education and VET taster programs Engagement, Enrichment and Excellence. ECG is a school where everybody in our learning community can THRIVE in their wellbeing and accomplishments, set meaningful learning and growth goals, and achieve their full potential.

We’re excited to announce that we are now welcoming Year 9 and 10 students to our Warragul and Leongatha campuses, in addition to our existing offerings for Years 11 and 12 (VPC and VCE VM) across our campuses, including Pakenham and Dandenong. We accept Expressions of Interest (EOI) for midyear entry to Years 9 and 10 in 2025 to the Pakenham campus 9/10 program.

Sustaining physical education up to VCE

Physical education (PE) is essential in early education, focusing on physical fitness, motor skills, and healthy habits. Its benefits extend well beyond early years, becoming even more crucial as students progress to the upper years of schooling. Here, we explore the advantages of continuing PE during the upper years, emphasizing its role in promoting physical, mental, social, and academic well-being.

Physical Health and Fitness

Physical activity is vital for overall health at any age. Regular PE helps students maintain or enhance their fitness levels. Adolescence is a critical period for growth, and PE offers opportunities to improve cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength, and flexibility. Prioritisng physical activity helps reduce the risk of obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and other health issues later in life.

Lifelong Habits

Fostering healthy habits early paves the way for lifelong well-being. Maintaining PE in upper years helps students develop a foundation for a physically active lifestyle, likely to continue into adulthood. This reduces the risk of sedentary behaviors that contribute to health complications. PE encourages students to enjoy exercise, making fitness a part of their daily routines.

Mental Health and Stress Management

self-concept. Engaging in physical activities that challenge and nurture their bodies can boost students’ self-confidence and help them develop a realistic view of their physical capabilities.

Motor Skills and Coordination

Upper years provide opportunities for students to further refine their motor skills and coordination through various physical activities. These skills contribute to overall physical fitness and impact daily tasks and recreational activities. Developing strong motor skills and coordination enhances students’ ability to engage in a range of physical activities with confidence.

Preventive Health Benefits

Our curriculum promotes resilience, confidence, health, wellbeing and practical life skills, tailored to student interests. Students are provided with strong connections to the four pillars of applied learning through a rich tapestryofexperientiallearningopportunities in Years 11 and 12 and project-based learning mapped to the standards of the Victorian Curriculum in the 9/10 program. Visit ecg.vic. edu.au/enrol-with-us to explore our school or to schedule a guided tour.

For more information, please get in touch with us at ecg.vic.edu.au | 03 5622 6000 | info@ecg.vic.gov.au Russel Praetz

Apply for Get Active voucher

The State Government announced the next round of the Get Active Kids Voucher Program, with $200 sport vouchers on offer for eligible families.

In an announcement on Monday, 7 October, Premier Jacinta Allan and Community Sport Minister Ros Spence announced the program, which aims to promote children to join a local sports club or try a new activity.

Families who hold health care cards or other concession cards can apply for vouchers of up to $200 per child to help cover the costs of sports memberships, registration fees, uniforms, and equipment.

Community Sport Minister Ros Spence said that about 150,000 vouchers have been claimed through previous rounds of the program.

“These vouchers are a win for healthy habits, a win for communities, and a win for the huge number of kids who would otherwise not be able to participate,” Ms Spence said.

Premier Jacinta Allan said that the program aims to assist busy families by making sure every child can get active this summer.

“Whether they like basketball or ballet, every kid deserves to have a go at the sport they love,” Ms Allan said.

The program is open to children aged up to 18 who are named on a Commonwealth Health Care Card or Pensioner Concession Card, and named on a Medicare Card.

Special consideration is also available to support children in care, temporary or provisional visa holders, migrants and international students.

Families can apply for the vouchers online before redeeming them at an activity provider such as a local sporting club.

$6 million was allocated in the state budget to extend the program.

Details: getactive.vic.gov.au/vouchers

Physical activity significantly impacts mental health. Regular exercise during upper years can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Adolescents face academic pressures, social challenges, and hormonal changes, making PE a crucial outlet for stress relief. Exercise stimulates endorphin release, promoting a positive mood and enhancing cognitive function, ultimately improving academic performance.

Improved Academic Performance

Contrary to the misconception that PE detracts from academic pursuits, research suggests a positive correlation between physical activity and academic performance. Regular exercise enhances cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. PE helps students experience improved focus and concentration, leading to more effective learning in other subjects.

Social Interaction and Teamwork

PE provides a unique environment for social interaction and teamwork. Students refine their interpersonal skills, develop leadership qualities, and learn to work collaboratively with peers. Team sports and group activities foster camaraderie and mutual support, enhancing students’ ability to communicate effectively and resolve conflicts.

Body Image and Self-Esteem

Adolescence is a time when body image and self-esteem can be particularly vulnerable. PE programs that emphasize positive body image and self-acceptance contribute to a healthier

Engaging in PE significantly impacts preventive health measures later in life. Adolescents who cultivate healthy habits are more likely to continue regular exercise as adults, reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and osteoporosis.

Time Management and Balance

Sustaining PE programs teaches students valuable time management skills. Balancing academics, extracurricular activities, and physical exercise fosters discipline and organization. These skills are transferable to adulthood, where juggling various responsibilities is a constant challenge.

Setting a Positive Example

Educational institutions play a pivotal role in shaping students’ attitudes and behaviours. By prioritising PE, schools set a positive example, signalling that physical well-being is integral to holistic education. This encourages students to value their health and make informed lifestyle choices.

Sustaining PE in upper years is a multifaceted investment yielding lifelong benefits. Beyond immediate advantages, PE promotes mental health, academic performance, and social skills. The habits formed during these crucial years lay the foundation for a healthier, more active adulthood. By recognising the farreaching impacts of PE, educational institutions can empower students to lead balanced, active lives that contribute positively to their overall well-being.

Physical education provides a unique environment for social interaction and teamwork.

ECG Secondary College principal Russel Praetz.

WHAT’S ON

Varroa mite information session

Beekeeping is an essential service, a hobby and a livelihood.

Pollination by honey bees is responsible for 70 per cent of our nation’s food production.

Should the Varroa mite (detected in New South Wales 18 months ago) reach the Yarra Valley and the Dandenong Ranges, it will threaten local honey bee well being, pollination services and honey production.

As part of the national roll out of a training program and a transition to management process, the National Varroa Mite Management workshops are aimed to help Australian Beekeepers prevent, manage and control Varroa mite in their beehives.

All beekeeepers in the area are invited to attend the upcoming nationally organised Yarra Valley Varroa Management Training Workshop on 26 October 9am to 3pm at Gembrook Community Centre.

Registration is essential and seats are limited.

•For more information or to RSVP, visit events. humanitix.com/yarra-valley-varroa-managementtraining-workshop Pakenham High School Class of 74 reunion

Former students of Pakenham High School are celebrating 50 years since the class of 74, former students and teachers who attended from Form 1 (year 7) 1969 to Form 6 (year 12) 1974 are welcome.

The reunion will take place from Saturday 19 October to Sunday 20 October. Saturday will include a dinner at Nar Nar Goon Football Club rooms and Sunday will include a tour of Pakenham Secondary School.

Tickets are available on trybooking.com at trybooking.com/events/landing/1273422.

•Any further enquiries you can call Andrew Trotter on 0432 422 943.

Men’s discussion group celebration

The South Eastern Men’s Discussion Groups is hosting their third biennial celebration, with men from the seven groups and men from groups across the North East invited.

Including laughter, fun, relaxation and morning tea, the celebration will be held from 10am to 12.30pm on Wednesday 30 October at the Outlook Commu-

Probus Club of Pakenham Central

Throughout the month of October, thousands of retirees across Australia will celebrate community and companionship in Probus as part of Probus Month with special morning and afternoon teas, lunches, themed parties, picnics, and so much more.

Pakenham Central Probus is a vibrant club with the aim of connecting local people who are semi retired and retired around common interests and opportunities which meet their needs and provide a social network thereby reducing isolation and loneliness.

nity Centre for a $5 fee.

•On completion of the event, you are invited to have lunch at your expense at Club Officer.

Pakenham Arthritis Self-Help Group

Are you living with arthritis and looking for a supportive community?

Join the Pakenham Arthritis Self Help Group (PASH) and discover the benefits of water and chair aerobics.

The group offers a safe and welcoming space to connect with others who understand your challenges.

Together, the group learns strategies to manage pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall quality of life.

The club engages interesting and stimulating speakers at its meetings and organises monthly opportunities for its members to dine out, go on outings and meeting for walking as a group, craft and ten pin bowling with lots of chatter and laughs over coffee. The club meets on the second Thursday of the month from 10am.

• For more information, visit www.probussouthpacific.org/microsites/pakenhamcentral or contact club secretary Jenny Dubois on 0419 421 950.

Warm water exercises are held at Cardinia Life from 8.15am to 9.15 am and 2.30pm to 3.30pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays, with chair exercises running at Meadowvale Retirement Village from 10.30am to 11.15am on Mondays and Pakenham Senior Citizens Centre from 10.30am to 11.15am on Thursdays.

•For additional information contact bernadette. lilley56@gmail.com or 0411 098 519.

Cabaret with Rene Diaz

Pakenham Arthritis Self-Help Group (PASH) is hosting the cabaret afternoon on Sunday 20 October from 2pm to 4pm at the Pakenham Senior Citizens Centre at 38 James Street in Pakenham.

Rene Diaz will be performing a mix of music with

something to delight audiences of all ages.

All members and friends are invited to attend this fun-filled afternoon.

Enjoy a variety of entertainment and indulge in a delicious afternoon tea for just $20 per person, plus a great opportunity to learn about PASH.

•For more information, contact Denise Fallon on denisefallon57@gmail.com or 0401 955 717.

Cranbourne Senior Citizens

Not a member? Doesn’t matter, come along and join the fun.

Weekly activities include line dancing from 10am to noon on Mondays, new vogue and old time dancing from 1pm to 3.30pm on Tuesdays, carpet bowls from 11.30am to 2.30pm on Wednesdays and Saturdays and bingo from 11am to 2pm on Thursdays.

•For all enquiries or bookings, contact Marilyn on 0432 107 590.

Ballroom Dancing Clyde

Social Ballroom Dancing at Clyde Public Hall, 30 Railway Road on Saturday 31 August from 8pm. Tea & coffee provided, BYO food and drinks. Admission $15.

•Please phone Ingrid on 0432 594 630.

U3A Casey

Did you know that U3A Casey now has 471 members and operates out of multiple venues across the Casey area?

It offers 65 different classes, ranging from exercise/movement/dance groups to literature, crafts, music, discussion groups and more.

Membership from July to December is $30 with no further costs.

•If you want to keep both your mind and body active after retirement, then visit u3acasey.org.au Yoga and meditation

Run by Heartfulness Yoga and Meditation, the sessions are conducted in a community environment to promote wellness.

Heartfulness is a simple and subtle practice of meditation which aims to connect all participants with the light and love in their hearts.

All are welcome to come and experience yoga and meditation on Sundays at Bunjil Place starting from 8.30am.

No previous experience is required. Bring your own yoga mat.

•Gold coin donation welcome.

Members of the Probus Club of Pakenham Central. (Supplied)

Chasing the wood journey

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_

rain

Vince Manna captured a moment of a double rainbow over rainbow eucalyptus in Hawaii. (Supplied) Yanomani woman in South America is wearing the snakewood earrings made by Vince Manna. (Supplied)

Vince Manna captured Rainbow eucalyptus in Hawaii. (Supplied)

Vince Manna has a collection of over 14,000 timber samples. He jokes that one day he will make a floor out of them. (Supplied)

Vince Manna captured Guianan cock-of-the-rock during one of his trips to look for snakewood in South America. (Supplied)

Vince Manna from a hideout in South America. (Supplied)

NEWS Doveton in the spotlight

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.”

Magician Luigi Zucchini with the help of a volunteer at Celebrate Doveton. (Ljubica Vrankovic: 435638)

Rennzo, 2, meets a young goat at the festival’s animal farm. (Ljubica Vrankovic: 435638)

Bavana, 5, with a curious kid goat. (Ljubica Vrankovic: 435638)

Shen, 1, ventured in the animal enclosure. (Ljubica Vrankovic: 435638)

Mudita, 4, feeds a goose in the animal farm. (Ljubica Vrankovic: 435638_07)

Dinosaur fan Mathias, 4, meets a modern reptile. (Ljubica Vrankovic: 435638)

The Lizard Wizard’s Ryan and Monique brought the reptiles. (Ljubica Vrankovic: 435638)

SPORT

Stella season to remember

By Marcus Uhe

The stocks of rising Pakenham basketball star Stella O’Loughlin have reached new heights on the back of acquiring some newly minted silverware last month.

The Warriors Youth League Women’s point guard was acknowledged for her brilliant season at the Warriors by being crowned the competition’s Most Valuable Player at the Big V Awards Gala last month.

In her first season at Youth League One level, O’Loughlin adapted to the grade with ease, scoring 14.5 points per game and shooting 47.4 per cent from the field, while also throwing 3.3 assists per game and grabbing 7.3 rebounds taking the Warriors to the competition’s grand final.

She played all 24 games and steered the offence with aplomb, leading her team in per game averages of points and steals, and shooting the highest field goal and two-point percentage on the team.

To go with her individual achievement, she was also named in the division’s All Star Five alongside four of the competition’s other brightest stars.

Pakenham’s 2024 Youth League Women’s coach Ben Gaze said her recognition was “definitely justified”.

“She did have some experience in the senior women’s team last year, but to have her first predominantly rookie season in the Youth League this year and make such an impact was fantastic,” Gaze said.

“Her tenacity attacking the rim, but also her ability to mop up some lose rebounds at the defensive end really accentuated her ability and made her a threat at both ends of the court.

“She had a great season but so did every other of the All Star Five that was up there.”

Gulls send early message

By Jonty Ralphsmith

A Cal O’Hare century led Tooradin to a comfortable 63-run victory over Merinda Park to get the reigning premiers’ season started with a win in the Casey Cardinia Cricket Association (CCCA) Premier competition.

O’Hare finished unbeaten with a-run-aball 117, setting up the innings with an 83-run opening partnership with Josh Lownds before accelerating at the back-end.

The game was shortened to a 34-over per team contest due to rain, with Tooradin reaching 3/218 in a blistering batting display, before keeping Merinda Park to 8/155.

Debutantes Connor O’Riordan and Cody Mannix both impressed captain-coach Mick Sweeney with their control in wet conditions.

O’Riordan had a dream start to First XI cricket, picking up a wicket off his first ball and finishing with 4/23 with his mediums, while Mannix got 2/46 off seven.

“Connor is probably our best trainer – he never complains and is really dependable,” Sweeney said.

“I’m sure the footy club would say the same thing about him.

“He’s predictable to his teammates, and he was a very good selection for us.

“He played exactly the way he trains.

While borderline unstoppable in transition due to her lighting speed, Gaze said her ability to shift down the gears and make composed decisions under pressure stood out on the court this season as a major improvement and new string added to her bow.

A player with big ambitions and always striving for the extra edge, Gaze praised her continuous search for advice and insatiable desire to improve as factors that have elevated her above her competition.

“She would accelerate, stop, slow down and then go again, which definitely put defences on their heels, trying to guess what’s going to happen.

“She also, as the season progressed, started to read the game a bit better and look for opportunities to get her teammates involved.

“As a player she’s always looking for feedback and she always wants to get better in that aspect.

“You’re able to really pick her game apart and give her that feedback so that she can then go an adjust it.

“She works tirelessly off the court with (State Development Program) and different things like that to really improve her game, as do multiple games in our Youth League program.”

Pakenham was one of the strongest-performing clubs at the Awards Gala with a number of Warriors recognised for outstanding seasons.

Youth League Two Men’s player Aaron Small was crowned Defensive Player of the Year and teammate Kaleb Beveridge was named in the Youth League Two Men’s All Star Five, while their coach Braden Venning was crowned Coach of the Year.

The Club’s overall outstanding performance and excellence in Basketball Operations was also acknowledged through receiving the League’s Chairman’s Award.

“He’s a medium pacer, really accurate, forces batters to change what they’re doingyou can set fields for him, he’s capable of hitting the seam and moving it around a little bit.

“He’s not the sharpest but he’ll wear you down and apply the pressure.

“Cody did get hit for a few fours and you know young spinners will but for him to bounce back and take wickets off the back of that when you could (drop your head) with a wet ball was impressive.

“It wasn’t ideal conditions for him but we were rapt with both debutantes.”

For Merinda Park, English recruit and club debutante Ash Slater provided an glimpse into his talent, top-scoring with 35, just five days after arriving in the country.

O’Hare’s century reinforced his bullocking reputation in the CCCA competition, following 764 runs including a grand final century last season.

“There’s not too many, if any players in the competition who can do what he does with the bat at his size and style of cricket,” Sweeney said.

“I certainly wouldn’t want to be opening the bowling to him.

“Cal’s consistency after last year; I’d like to think the innings was a little bit of a statement that as he’s getting older, he’s getting better so hopefully it bodes well for the rest of the season.”

Each of the other three games started, before persistent afternoon rain lead to the matches being abandoned.

Upper Beaconsfield was competitive against Pakenham, keeping the visitors to 6/110 in 32 overs before rain prevented further play.

Daniel Brennan claimed the wicket of Jack

Anning in the first over, with run-scoring machine Chris Smith (36) and Zach Chaplin (42*) the only batters able to score freely on the day. Brennan claimed two wickets in an attacking opening spell, while Chad McDonald built the pressure up the other end with an economy rate of 2.25, and Andrew McDonald also chipped in with two wickets.

Cardinia was well on top against Devon Meadows, scoring 4/196 before having Devon Meadows 5/90 in response, just eight overs short of a completed match.

The returning Mark Cooper started his tenure back at the club with a well-built 70, grafting early before catching up his run-rate later in the innings.

Bradley Welsh also caught the eye with 66 off 54, before recruit Trishane De Silva started the Devon Meadows’ innings with a wicket to put Cardinia on the front foot.

De Silva finished with 2/26 and opened the bowling alongside fellow Beaconsfield recruit Jack Burchill, while leggies Yohan Arumadura and Cooper combined for 3/15 off 12 overs.

In the other game, Clyde wasted a 78-run opening partnership between first-year skipper Trevor Bauer and stalwart Michael Vandort losing 9/50 to fall to 9/139 at the change of innings before rain fell.

In his highly anticipated first match back at full-fitness, Jess Mathers bowled five overs at first change for Kooweerup for a return of 0/20. Joel Anderson, Steve Dillon, Shiran Rathnayake and Cody Miller each claimed two wickets.

Callum O’Hare continued his ridiculous consistency with a century to start the season. (Rob Carew: 435768).

Bradey Welsh played with impetus late in Cardinia’s innings.

Stella O’Loughlin was recognised as the Most Valuable Player in the Youth League Women’s Basketball competition for 2024. (Gary Sissons: 425711)

Cheers taking great form into deciders

By Marcus Uhe

It took until round 26 of the South West Gippsland Dart League season but Cheers saved its best performance of the season for last to enter the finals campaign on a tsunami of momentum.

In downing Predators 9-6, Cheers will enter their first round finals match-up this week against their vanquished opponents with the wind at their back, having survived a stunning performance from Steve on the other side of the scorecard.

In a feat that wowed the competitors and spectators, the man who topped Dean from Snipers as the competition’s leading ton-thrower with 148 threw a 12-dart game, with pegs of 100, 100, 140 and 161.

It wasn’t enough to secure the victory however, and makes for an interesting contest next week when the two sides go head-to-head again in the opening week of the finals in the top division.

Cheers had an even spread of contributors, with Jordan and Shane contributing three tons each and Ant five, as they reached five consecutive wins to finish the year - the best current win streak in the competition.

Cheers’ result wasn’t the only one to turn heads this week, with Mud Rats also stumbling at the final hurdle.

One of the competition’s form teams in the back half of the season, the Mud Rats lost critical stimulus when it’s needed the most, having been toppled by 11th-placed Generals 8-7.

So too did Gembrook, as Snipers rediscovered some touch with a 13-2 thrashing, led by Dean’s seven tons.

The loss rules them out of contention for the major prize, relegated to the secondary competition and hot favourites for the Don Brown Memorial Shield.

Noel, meanwhile, finished the year on a high despite his team’s results, throwing six tons in a 9-6 loss to Just Social.

The two divisions for the finals have been divided by ladder positions, with spots one to five in one division and six to 10 in the other.

The top three teams in each division have received a double chance, with all finals to be played at the Nar Nar Goon hotel.

Results R26: Cheers 9 v Predators 6, Snipers 13 v Gembrook 2, Generals 8 v Mud Rats 7, Dart Vaders 14 v Hoodies 1, Dart Attack 11 v Bullseyes 4, 26ers 9 v Railway 6, Just Social 9 v Fore 6.

Ladder: Snipers 100, Predators 96, Cheers 92, Mud Rats 72, Dart Vaders 68, Gembrook 64, Just Social 56, Fore 48, 26ers 48, Railway 32, Generals

Division

Don Brown Memorial Shield - Just Social (7) v Fore (8), 26ers (9) v Railway (10) - loser eliminated.

Gembrook - Bye.

Injury sidelines Tooradin speedster Butler

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Fearsome Tooradin fast bowler Brad Butler is facing a period on the sidelines with a back injury.

Butler is renowned as one of the quickest bowlers in the Casey Cardinia Cricket Association Premier competition, capturing 43 wickets at 15 for the premiers last season.

He was the leading wicket-taker in the competition, opening the bowling for Tooradin and setting games up.

Captain-coach Mick Sweeney says the club is uncertain about when he will return and emphasised no pressure will be put on setting a return date.

“We’re still up in the air about how serious it is but he has got a back issue,” Sweeney said.

“He has been playing sport for many years and it’s just part of sport that you pick up niggles like this and he’s so athletic and intense with what he does that these things happen.

“Hopefully the outcome is great for us and we can get him back for us but if that’s not the case, then we’ll come up with different plans and hopefully what we dished up on the weekend is a sign of things to come – if we have to do it differently, so be it.”

Asked whether Tooradin is expecting to have Butler late in the season, Sweeney said: “I hope so. We’ll manage it as the information comes through. We won’t predict anything. He’s got some appointments scheduled and we’ll deal with it as it comes.”

Despite his extensive contributions, Tooradin have a slew of backup options, led by Josh Lownds who took 25 wickets last season, and Russell Lehman who nabbed 21.

Butler is expected to have clarity about the injury and next steps in his recovery later this month.

Locals shine at Combine

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Narre Warren’s Sam Toner and Warragul Industrials defender Alix Tauru both shone at the AFL Combines held across the weekend in Melbourne.

The best prospects in the country were put through their paces in Melbourne from Friday 4 October to Sunday 6 October, with players taking part in physical testing and club interviews.

The physical tests included a two-kilometre time trial, AFL agility test, 20-metre sprint, standing vertical jump and running vertical jump.

Tauru tested at the national combine, recording the highest standing vertical jump at 94cm and also catching the eye with his 20-metre sprint.

The bolter of the draft class, Tauru is an interceptor whose marking and aggression have put him on the map.

Toner is another whose name has entered conversation late in the season as a medium forward, and he recovered from a wrist injury to impress at the state combine.

He tested among the top handful in the vertical jump, while his agility and sprint illustrated a strong athletic profile.

Berwick’s Riak Andrew was another to test well, while Gippsland marking forward Asher Eastham recorded a strong 20-metre sprint time.

Narre North junior Noah Mraz came ninth in the running vertical jump (88cm) and tested solidly after an injury-ruined campaign and Stingrays ruck Jordan Doherty recorded a personal best 2-kilometre time trial held for the state combine invitees in blustery conditions at Lakeside Stadium on Sunday.

Warragul local Jasper Alger, who plays at Oakleigh as he boards at Caulfield Grammar, also had a strong weekend, combining a strong time trial with a rapid sprint of 2.931 seconds and placing 10th in the agility with 8.141 seconds.

Number one pick contender Harvey Langford shone in the two-kilometre time trial, placing eighth with a time of 6:24.

Defender Charlie Orchard (state), small forward Ricky Mentha (state) and St Kilda father-son prospect Elwood Peckett (state) were also in action across the weekend. Meanwhile, Zoe Besanko was a standout at the girls national combine, finishing seventh in the 20-metre sprint with a run of 3.297 seconds, accompanying an equalsecond placing in the standing vertical jump (51cm).

Number one pick contender Ash Centra’s best test was her AFL agility, while Gippsland’s Lilly Leighton and Dandenong’s Kayla Dalgleish both tested well overall at the state combine.

Dandenong co-captain Cooper Hynes, key-position player Elli Symonds, Gippsland halfback Zali Gallagher and Morrish Medallist Xavier Lindsay all missed the physical testing due to injury.

Alix Tauru at the national combine. (Jonty Ralphsmith: 436260).

Tooradin fire-brand Brad Butler is set for an extended stint on the sidelines. (Stewart Chambers: 396630)

28, Bullseyes 16, Dart Attack 12, Hoodies 0. Fixture: Finals Week 1

One - Predators (2) v Cheers (3), Mud Rats (4) v Dart Vaders (5) - loser eliminated. Snipers - Bye.

A sensational game from Steve was overshadowed by Cheers’ huge upset over Predators. (Supplied)

Near neighbours fine tune

CARDINIA WATERS BOWLS

Cardinia Waters was guests of near-neighbour Pakenham Bowls Club last Tuesday for a practice game under Pennant conditions.

Both clubs are keen bowlers and any game between the two clubs is considered serious business.

Cardinia Waters took their division two side to compete against Pakenham’s division one side. Surprisingly it was a comfortable win to the visitors 68-53.

The rink of John Van Vugt (skip), Ashley Graham, Del Dance and Robert Mitchell were best for the village side.

They beat the team of Keith Archer (skip), David Laird, Paul Phillips and Gayle Harkness 31-14. They were never headed and were feeling most happy, scoring a seven on end nine.

Ray Naylor’s rink also had a comfortable win 20-14.

Ray played with Jill Naylor, Cathy Swinkels and Bill Tippelt.

They played against Ron Doltix (skip), M Hahn, Vince Bevilaqua and Matt Coutts.

The third rink was a Pakenham win, with the rink of Terry McRedmond (skip), Max Mannix, R McGennisken and David Lertch winning 25-17.

Their opponents were Keith Lewis (skip), Bill Hite, Dennis Patmore and Jim Barrie.

Both teams would have benefitted from the hitout and will be even more competitive once the midweek season gets underway on October 22.

In the other game Pakenham’s premiership side from last season were far too good for their Cardinia Waters opponents.

Pakenham will face the music in division two this year whilst the Cardinia Waters midweek side two will play in division five.

Cardinia Waters now has two more practice

games to round out the pre-season.

Both these games are against Kooweerup; the first on Saturday and then a mid-week game on Tuesday.

Kooweerup play in the Mornington Peninsula

League and are a reasonably unknown quantity at Cardinia Waters. The Kooweerup Bowling Club is patiently waiting for their new clubhouse to be completed, enabling them to once again play bowls at home.

ARMS BOWLS COACH VISITS

Accomplished bowls coach David Bernard conducted an armed bowls coaching clinic at Cardinia Waters recently.

With many village bowlers using arms to extend their bowls careers, the correct use, and the features of different arms is important.

David conducted the first part of his two hours session in the village clubhouse, before stepping onto the bowling green for actual face-to-face coaching.

A heavy downpour meant the outside part of the session was transferred to the undercover Pakenham green, after they volunteered the use of their facilities.

A mighty fine gesture from Pakenham.

The armed bowlers who attended were very pleased and benefitted from their experience.

KOOWEERUP PRACTICE GAME.

The first of two practice games against Kooweerup were held last Saturday.

The showery weather meant the four rinks played were shortened. Both teams claimed two rinks so the day was considered a draw.

Best of the two Cardinia Waters winning rinks was skipped by Ray Naylor, who was well-supported by Jill Naylor, Cathy Swinkels and Bill Tippelt.

When rain stopped play after 13 ends, they were leading 24-4, with a win by six shots on the last end sweetening their day.

Keith Lewis’s rink had a handy win, too; fitting in 17 ends, and won 26-10 with many multiples. Keith played with Bill Hite, Jim Barrie and Sandra Wilde.

The second of the Kooweerup practice games will be the midweek game this Tuesday.

The Metropolitan Pennant season starts on October 19.

-John Moore

Serious blows not landed but lessons learnt in the rain

By David Nagel

Is it possible to learn anything from a rainshortened opening round of CCCA District Division on Saturday that saw all four games end in draws?

Carlisle Park, Cranbourne Meadows, Officer and Pakenham Upper/Toomuc will all feel a little ripped off; being in powerful positions until mother-nature once again put the dampener on the first battles for the season.

Carlisle Park (2/45), the Vikings, will feel most aggrieved after being in a dominant position against last year’s cellar-dweller Lang Lang (73).

After winning the toss and throwing the home side into bat, the Vikings rolled the Tigers in 23.4 overs of carnage, with their new-look bowling attack doing plenty of early-season damage.

Boom-recruit Jarrod Armitage (2/20 off 5) made the early breakthrough, removing Tim Miller for a duck, before Jaan Balasuriya (1/13) joined in the party.

And when Armitage had Theekshana Hettiarachchi (4) caught by Ethan Davies, the Swamp Tigers were 3/17 and seemingly in all sorts of trouble.

Opener Rumesh Abeysinghage (33) provided the only bright light of the innings, striking one boundary and a maximum during an enterprising knock that came off 42 deliveries.

Abeysinghage and Damien Quinlan (5 off 19

It’s the end of the road for Cranbourne Meadows opener Sanjeev Dhankar after skying a drive to backward point. (Rob Carew: 435770)

balls) worked hard to resurrect the innings, before the wheels well and truly fell off.

Davies (3/18) took the first of his three wickets, trapping Abeysinghage in front, before Rob Fuller and Adam Hassan combined to run out Quinlan.

Hassan (3/18) then claimed three wickets in quick succession, with Nick Peake (0) having his castle knocked over, before Oshadha Ariyadasa and Nathan McLean were both catapulted to the pavilion for two.

Davies then mopped up the tail; the Tigers losing a remarkable 7/22 in the latter part of

their innings.

The Vikings tried hard in reply, with Dave Nutting (22 off 16) leading the charge, but were ultimately cut short by the rain; just 29 runs shy of their target with plenty of overs left to bat.

The Vikings will take a lot of confidence into another away trip against NNG/Maryknoll this week, while the Tigers will need to regroup on a road trip to Melbourne Sixers.

Officer’s feared bowling attack looks to be once again at the top of its game after the Bullants had the better of Emerald (5/91) at Chandler Reserve.

Jonty Bennie (2/22), Cooper Pursell (1/10) and Noah Parraga (1/22) had the home side on the back foot; 4/44 at one stage, with Ethan Crosher (17) providing most resistance from the Bombers top order.

Trent Rolfs (25) and Michael Hoban (10 not out) then stopped things from getting out of hand with a 28-run partnership that stopped the charging Bullants in their tracks.

Ash Smith (1/12 off 8) claimed the wicket of Rolfs, but rain soon intervened after 33 overs of play.

Officer host Pakenham Upper/Toomuc this week, while the Bombers head to Lawson Poole Reserve to take on a dangerous Cranbourne Meadows.

The Rebels produced the best batting display on day one of the season, being 5/179 off 33 overs when play was brought to a standstill

against competition newcomers Melbourne Sixers.

The Rebels top-order all got away to starts, with openers Manu Goraya (43) and Sanjeev Dhankar (29) in fine touch - hitting 11 boundaries between them - before Tanvir Singh (42) and Karanbir Tiwana (29 not out) continued the top-order dominance.

The Sixers were their own worst enemies, conceding 19 extras, with 14 wides amongst that lot.

They also dropped catches, and will need to sharpen that part of their game if they’re to come close to challenging the better teams in the competition.

And finally, Pakenham Upper/Toomuc had the upper hand when stumps were pulled against NNG/Maryknoll (56.1) on Saturday.

A revitalised Lucas Plozza (2/5 off 5) took bowling honours for the Yabbies, while Raja Sadiq (2/25 off 6) was also up and about early. Ryan Mibus (1/28) also claimed a wicket for the home side, while Gayan De Silva (20), Tharindu Wathudura (17 not out) and Troy Ferguson (11) were the major breadwinners for the Marygoons.

DISTRICT FIXTURE - ROUND 2

Saturday 12 October, 2024

Officer v Pakenham Upper/Toomuc

NNG/Maryknoll v Carlisle Park

Cranbourne Meadows v Emerald Melbourne Sixers v Lang Lang

It’s all about hand signals for opposing skips, Keith Lewis and Terry McRedmond. (John Moore: 435777)

Max Mannik rolls one down for the Lions.Keith Lewis concentrates hard on his bowl. Bill Tippelt is back on the green this summer.

Richrad Grace shows impressive form.

Pumas primed for Summer

It’s been a quick turnaround for the Pakenham Pumas with the arrival of Summer Season.

SENIORS

Pakenham Pumas Firsts played Ormond Glenhuntly on Sunday who started the scoring in the bottom of the first with two runs.

Max Hunter started on the mound for the Pumas allowing three hits and three runs (zero earned) over five innings, striking out three and walking three.

Hiroke Goke and Max each collected two hits for Pakenham, Max led the team at the plate going two-for-two with two walks and two runs batted in.

Overall, the team had a strong eye at the plate, piling up eight walks for the game.

Pakenham also turned two double plays in the game.

RESERVES

Pakenham Pumas Reserves defeated Ormond Glenhuntly.

The Pumas scored at the top of the first inning after Dillan Collier doubled and James McFadden walked each scoring one run, and then scored six runs on three hits in the top of the second inning. Mitchell Porter doubled, scoring one run, Daniel Hussien drew a walk, scoring one run, Rohan Hector singled, scoring two runs, Collier grounded out, scoring one run, and Lachlan Collier singled, scoring one run.

Again the Pumas added to their early lead in the top of the third inning after Rohan hit a sacrifice fly, Dillan singled, each scoring one run.

Rohan stepped on the hill first for Pakenham, with the righty giving up three hits and three runs over three innings, striking out five and walking three.

Pakenham tallied 10 hits in the game.

Rohan provided pop in the middle of the lineup, and led the Pumas with three runs batted in.

The right-handed hitter went one-for-two on the day.

Cooper Porter, Collier, and Mitch Porter each collected two hits for the Pumas.

James McFadden led the Pumas with three walks.

Overall, the team had a strong eye at the plate, collecting 10 walks for the game.

Liam Hough stole two bases and the Pumas stole nine bases in total for the day.

Pakenham was sure-handed in the field and didn’t commit a single error.

STATE 3

Pakenham Pumas State 3 had trouble keeping up with Melbourne on Sunday in a 15-1 loss.

Will Mayberry started on the mound for the Pumas allowing one hit and striking out one.

Felicity and Bryce were the relief pitches for the game.

Bryce was also a force to be reckoned with, hitting a huge double out to left field.

The Pumas were able to steal four bases throughout the game and ended in high spirits.

State 3 is ready to come back even stronger in the next game.

STATE 4

Pakenham Pumas played Waverley on Sunday in the first game of the 2024/25 summer season.

The Pumas started the scoring in the bottom of the first when Will Mayberry scored on a sacrifice fly to the outfield by Andrew Hemmes.

Pakenham then extended its lead scoring two more runs in the second innings on singles from Andrew Mayberry and Scott Dale.

Pakenham added two runs in the third before taking complete control of the game by scoring six runs in the fourth on a hit-by pitch to Tim Stockdale and hits to Wayne Porter, Andrew Mayberry and Greg McCormick.

Andrew Mayberry led the Pumas with the bat collecting four RBI’s on two hits.

Travis Hough also had two hits while a very patient Coadhey Rebbechi picked up three walks in his first ever game of senior baseball.

Pakenham was solid in the field and on the pitching mound all game.

Scott Dale, Andrew Hemmes and Wayne Porter shared the pitching duties combining to hold Waverley to only two runs on one hit over five innings.

Pakenham finish the game with a 13-2 victory.

REGIONAL EAST

Pakenham Black faced a challenging match against Waverly on Sunday, falling 12-1. Despite the scoreline, the game featured some

promising moments and individual achievements for the Pakenham team.

Waverley started strong, scoring seven runs in the first inning.

They capitalised on key hits, including a tworun double and took advantage of Pakenham’s early defensive struggles to build an early advantage.

The match was Jake Bone’s debut for Pakenham and his first baseball game in seven years, marking a significant return to the sport.

Fionn Sculley also made his senior debut, recording his first hit and making his first catch in right field, showcasing his potential.

Pakenham initially had only eight players available, but Malachite O’Halloran and Tyler Whitelaw stepped in at short notice to fill out the side, demonstrating the squad’s commitment and teamwork.

Brad Jones, Fionn Sculley, and Tyler Whitelaw each collected hits, with Jones driving in Pakenham’s sole run, going one-for-two at the plate.

On the mound, Jones pitched 2.2 innings, allowing six hits and 10 runs (six earned) while striking out two and walking four.

James D’Arcy came in to pitch in relief, providing support in the later innings.

The Waverly Pitcher allowed just three hits and one run over five innings while striking out 10.

While the scoreline was not in its favour, Pakenham Black displayed resilience and spirit.

The contributions of Jake Bone and Fionn Sculley, along with the support of teammates like Malachite O’Halloran, Tyler Whitelaw, and the pitching relief from James D’Arcy, highlight the team’s potential moving forward.

Pakenham will aim to build on these efforts in their upcoming matches.

Pakenham Regional White had a Washout

WOMEN

Summer season 2024-25 saw Pakenham Black

kick things off with round one held at their home ground against Chelsea Dolphins.

Pitcher and catcher duo Emily Williams and Carni Dowsett held down the fort for three innings, with their efforts supporting the achievement of multiple strikeouts against the Dolphins.

Pakenham Black put forward a strong infield, evidence represented in the efforts made by Olivia Garcia and Holly Lunn with double plays; Jo Blackler making a great catch of a line drive at short stop and also Kirby Cannizzaro working hard over at first base.

Katherine Walton, Casey Hynes and Christine Sculley backed up the Puma Blacks with their efforts in the outfield throughout the duration of the game.

Hitting was strong by all the Pumas shown in their stolen bases and strong base running throughout each innings, proving what a connected and supportive team the Pumas Blacks are representing at the beginning of another summer season.

Pakenham’s 13-7 win has set up for a confident and strong season.

The Pumas Women’s White team started strongly in their season opener against the Berwick City Cougars.

Jessica Moulding started well for Pakenham on the mound, pitching some loopy pearlers, with Danni Wilson showing off her quick reflexes behind the dish as catcher.

Young Isobel Bailey celebrated her debut match alongside her very proud mum, Sarah.

The Pumas were up 7-4 thanks to Codie Sell stealing home, before the heavens opened up, washing out the game.

Unfortunately, the early call in the game meant no score recorded for either side but it was a cracking start to the season nonetheless!

MASTERS

Pumas Masters had a chilly but fun first outing of the season taking on Monash University at

Ormond.

With a new look team, including some returning Masters players and some newcomers to the grade, we were excited to have our first standalone masters team in about five years.

Our enthusiasm unfortunately didn’t help us with our bats though tonight.

The Farmers starting pitcher had our batters in all sorts from the first dig.

Tristan Hill managed to get himself onto first base, but a fly-ball to short, ground out, and a swinging strike three saw us out in the field fairly quickly.

Bernie Tyers took to the mound first for Pakenham, having the best possible start, picking up an out with the first pitch, thanks to a fly ball out to Andy Mayberry in left field.

Monash went on to pick up three runs thanks to a walk, a single and two doubles, but some tidy work in the infield picked up the next two batters and we got out of the innings without any more damage.

The second innings added no score for either team, with three-up and three-down for both pitchers.

Monash added one extra in the third, thanks to an error, but our fielders kept working hard and got the outs needed to keep us in the game.

Pakenham really struggled to string hits together again, even with a change in pitcher.

James Kinsella and Gregg Clutterbuck both made it to base in the fourth, but we just couldn’t capitalise and convert them onto the scoreboard.

The home team managed to bring in two more runs in the fifth to finish the match, coming away 6-0 winners in a game that had a lot of positives for a side that hasn’t played together before and plenty to look forward to.

We’re excited to see what next week has in store for us.

Hits: Two

singles for Tristan Hill; one each for James Kinsella and Gregg Clutterbuck.

Andrew Mayberry was rock-solid for the Pumas on Saturday. (Stewart Chambers: 422960)

ENROL NOW FOR 2025

Our faith leads to wisdom and courage.

This motto is the energising source of all that happens at St Clare's and is embedded in the ethos of the school, the curriculum we offer and the relationships we develop within our school and wider communities.

If you are reading this as a prospective student, parent, guardian or family, I invite you to visit us at St Clare's and discover this dynamic learning environment and start the beginning of, what I hope will be, a life-long learning partnership.

Helen Staindl School Principal