Through trials and tribulations, Noble Park local Narges Hazareh has dreams of establishing a career in art, with her recent workshop consideredtobeasignificant breakthroughinhercalling.
One of Narges Hazareh’s resin art products, which features a mirror on a stand. (Stewart Chambers: 445053)
By Ethan Benedicto
Though
Despite their attendance, one of the event’s organisers, Michael Ball, is adamant that their
Kick off the festive season at the popular Twilight Christmas Makers Market and Lighting of the Christmas Tree on Saturday 30 November from 3:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
Bunjil Place Plaza will once again transform into a lively outdoor market, featuring more than 70 vibrant stalls brimming with unique goods and delectable foods. Enjoy live music, little elves’ workshops, food trucks, an outdoor bar, and roving performers at this entertaining, family-friendly event that you won’t want to miss.
At 8:00 pm, join our newly elected Mayor and Councillors as they light up the Bunjil Place Christmas Tree. This year’s tree is presented in collaboration with the City of Casey’s Aboriginal Gathering Place.
Together with the Yarn and Art collective, they have curated beautiful works of art that will be featured in the decoration of the tree, celebrating both the festive season and the rich cultural heritage of our local Aboriginal community.
To find out more, visit the Bunjil Place website or scan the QR code.
From 2025, all Casey managed kindergartens will offer 15 hours of funded three-year-old kindergarten, providing children with two years of early childhood education before they start school.
Our high-quality kindergarten programs are delivered by qualified early childhood teaching teams who aim to empower children and instil a love and curiosity for learning.
Registrations for 2025 are now open. Visit our website to find out more or scan the QR code.
If you’re travelling through bush or grasslands this summer, check the conditions of your destination and the areas you will travel through before you go.
Listen to ABC local radio for warnings and advice while you’re on the road, and check conditions of your destination regularly throughout your stay. Download the VicEmergency app, visit the VicEmergency website and save the VicEmergency Hotline (1800 226 226) into your mobile phone.
The Fire Danger Period for the City of Casey will start on Monday 9 December.
During the Fire Danger Period, Council issued permits to burn are not valid.
To learn more about what you can and can’t do during the Fire Danger Period and on days of Total Fire Ban, visit the CFA website.
Have you signed up to the Casey Catch Up?
Subscribe now to our email newsletter and get up to speed with all the latest Council news!
Our newsletter is sent monthly and provides a convenient way to find out about upcoming events, major announcements and community news.
Head to our website and sign up now or scan the QR code.
SHARE YOUR FEEDBACK AND HELP SHAPE THE FUTURE OF OUR CITY
Provide feedback on a number of consultations currently open on our community engagement platform, Casey Conversations.
• Road Management Plan 2025: we want your input on local roads, pathways, and road bridges as we develop our new four-year plan.
• Draft playground concept designs for Berwick Springs West Playspace in Narre Warren South, Kendall Drive Reserve Playspace Narre Warren, and Wood Road Reserve Playspace in Narre Warren South: have your say on the draft designs.
Head to the Casey Conversations website to find out more or scan the QR code.
Welcome to our new Casey councillors. The City of Casey would like to congratulate and welcome our new Councillors.
By Ethan Benedicto
The Transit Soup Kitchen and Food Support in Narre Warren held its grand reopening on Saturday 23 November, after undergoing renovations earlier this year.
With more than 100 volunteers lending their hands, tools and time towards upgrades on amenities, the building’s foundational structures, tilings, tables and more, the reopening is a remarkable milestone for the volunteers and their support of over 1500 every week.
Michelle Pinxt, the kitchen’s grants and community relations officer, said that she was, and is “absolutely excited and relieved and happy and everything in between”.
“For the guests, I feel like we’ve given them a sense of dignity with it, which I think is often not always there with soup kitchens.
“I feel like there’s this sense of valuing every member of our community at the moment, no matter at what stage there’s an appreciation that everyone’s doing it tough.
“People are connecting on a different level together when they think, ‘oh if we’re doing it tough now, I can’t imagine people in different positions doing it harder - so yeah there’s this whole sense of connection and compassion among the people.”
The reopening was attended by over 150 guests, which could be more considering Pinxt recalled selling 150 sausages, buying more, and selling those out as well.
Nevertheless, for Pinxt and the volunteers who serve as the cogs of the kitchen, seeing the care and effort by the people who had helped bring it to where it is now, was something that had them “blown away”.
“We had over 50 tradesmen that donated their time [and] countless hours on countless hours that they put in on their weekends, public holidays, after work, taking days off to get it all done, it was all incredible.
“We also had this incredible cooking team that got together and created this whole atmosphere of camaraderie and fun throughout the whole thing, so everyone was not only well-fed but really connected as a community.”
The kitchen’s service did not halt during the renovation, however, as food hampers made by the volun-
teers were able to keep those in need nourished, saving Transit the pain of having to turn anybody away.
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
Casey ratepayers will be charged $1335 a day plus expenses for each of the two council monitors over the next 12 months, according to figures revealed at a Parliament hearing.
ThepairwereappointedbytheStateGovernment to oversee the newly-elected Casey Council – which will pay for the monitors’ salaries and expenses.
The daily rates would equate to full-time equivalent annual salaries totalling $974,550.
Local Government opposition spokesperson Peter Walsh seized on the figures from the Department of Government Services during Parliament’s Public Estimates and Accounts Committee hearings on 19 November.
This month, the Government named five new
monitors to oversee the recently-dismissed Srathbogie, Whittlesea and Casey councils – in what Mr Walsh called a “growth industry built on poor governance and mistrust”.
“There have been more than 25 local council monitor appointments since 2020.
“Monitors on top of the usual administrative costs has become an expensive exercise for ratepayers.”
According to the State Government, the remuneration reflects the expertise and experience required for the role.
It appointed the monitors from 6 November 2024 until 6 November 2025, to “support good governance” and to “help prevent the recurrence of issues that led to each council’s dismissal”.
“Victorians rightly expect elected councillors
to maintain a high standard of governance – where risks to good governance have been identified, experienced monitors are appointed to guide councillors to help them best serve their community,” a Government spokesperson said.
“Monitors support elected councillors to deliver good governance and help prevent governance failures that can result in a council’s dismissal or suspension.”
Casey Residents and Ratepayers Association president Brian Oates said the monitors were “overkill”, noting that the 2020-’24 panel of administrators were meant to “change the culture” at Casey Council.
He said that only one councillor out of the 12 elected this month was part of the council that was sacked in 2020.
The Casey monitors are the recently-deployed
They will report directly to the Local Government Minister.
A City of Casey spokesperson told Star News: “The Municipal Monitor terms of reference and remuneration amount, payable by Council, is set by the State Government.”
At the time of the monitors’ appointment, Casey chief executive Glenn Patterson said their “expertise and experience would be invaluable in supporting the new council”.
“We look forward to having them guide and assist the council in strengthening governance and ensuring that decisions are made with integrity and transparency over the next 12 months,” Mr Patterson said.
By Ethan Benedicto
Being comfortable and one with yourself has always been a rather difficult ordeal, but finding that peace, that medium to allow the expression of emotions is key to this organisation’s goal.
The Andres Pancha Anchor Community, posthumously named after the Cranbourne North father of three who was killed in Frankston Pier earlier this year, aims to provide a safe space for the freedom of articulation and connection.
With a focus on providing for disadvantaged youth, APAC’s launch on Saturday 30 November - the same date as Andres’ birthday - at Chelsea Activity Hub looks to take the first step in the notfor-profit’s mission of giving people a voice.
Divine Pancha, wife of Andres Pancha, said that finding peace after her husband’s passing has been difficult, but after realising that many close to her and many just a stone’s throw away were undergoing similar situations, an idea brewed in her mind.
“Before Andres passed away I did a lot of work on myself since we have three children, training on spirituality work and also a lot of artwork,” she said.
“I was struggling when I had postnatal, depression and anxiety - that was after Covid, and so I was looking at things for me, but then this happened.”
The media liaison and anchor guides, but also close family friends Elizabeth Sabelino and Katalina Vergara, had taken to visiting the Pancha household after Andres’s death.
A simple welfare check and a hello turned into something more when they saw Divine’s projects such as clay pottery and gardening.
“They took part and they loved it, so we started having regular meetings where I would give them some workshops,” she said.
“Then it was, ‘oh, how about we bring this to others?’, and they were talking about friends that lived nearby and like, maybe they wanted to do it.” It all began with a simple conversation and for Divine, that was all the convincing she needed.
The location of the launch is close to the sea, resonating with Andres’ love for fishing and all things aqua, considering his trade as a seaman.
The event itself aims to provide an insight into connection through the arts, with a focus on addressing the needs of those who are disadvantaged and those who have been impacted by crime.
Divine said she’s been “very excited” for the launch, with previous workshops, called Wayfinder Workshops being held since the start of November.
The most recent was a Clay and Play workshop which took place on Saturday 23 November, one that focused on easing tension, releasing excess energy and expressing one’s feelings, incorporating the needs of the inner self and being comfortable in that mentioned space of mental and emotional safety.
It began with a grounding, colour meditation that had participants lay on mats and engage in breathwork, ensuring that they relaxed their muscles and their minds.
The clay-making came after, where the same participants were given the freedom of creation, whether that be to form something out of their
meditation experience, or something else from their imaginations.
Once finished, they were asked to interpret the figures of their clay, on what it stood for and what it meant - and the answers ranged from the feeling of love to the care shown to a smoothened bowl, and to the comings and goings of experiences yet the stability of oneself through a clay tree.
“With APAC we have a mission on just the core, simple values of love, connection, compassion and the sense of wonder,” Divine said.
The finale was a journaling activity, where this session’s prompt had participants draw a flower and in the petals were asked to list a series of emotions.
From there, they were tasked with combining those words, constructing a loose narrative on their experience throughout the workshop where they were asked - if comfortable - to share with the rest.
“I’m really looking forward for the community to gather and just get a taste of it, it’s a very different kind of launch,” Divine said.
Held on Andres’ birthday, she added that this launch, and APAC as a whole is “coming from a real story that affects families and people”.
“This is important because people now are always measuring up to things, people are always thinking that you have to achieve something.
“Children should do this, or they should do that, or a young person should be able to do this; there’s so much pressure and they forget about who they really are you know?
“It’s extraordinary, this route, what happened to Andres has a huge message, the death itself is a message; what have the people done with themselves that it came to a point where someone died because of a person who didn’t have a home?”
Divine, through her and her late husband’s love for their children said that what APAC stands for is something that Andres would want to do, to “nourish the young people”.
With three children all under the age of 13, Divine said that the only step to be taken is to nurture her children, and from there, APAC looks to extend that love to others.
“It all connects with love, and we go back to ourselves because everyone is very busy, but at least with this, there’s some way of connecting,” she said.
“It’s more ways of creating encounters and connections and finding those abilities that you thought you didn’t have, but then realise that a lot
of things are happening within you.
“Children have lost that sense of imagination because they’re scared of the world, especially because of what happened [with Andres].
“It’s more of that we come from the authentic side because this is an extraordinary story, we have a root, we have a human story, and the power of that human story we will allow it to unfold, to do its work.”
To Divine, she has hopes of collaborating with other organisations in the future with a strong belief that tackling their missions hand-in-hand would sow the seeds that would flourish within and nourish local communities.
But as the launch soon approaches the excitement grows for Divine, taking that first step into sharing the love and connection to all.
Forrest Stevenson, a 36-year-old of no fixed address, was charged with murdering Andres Pancha earlier in June.
He was remanded to next appear for a committal mention at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 24 March.
For more information on APAC, visit apacommunitygroup.carrd.co/ and for more information on the launch, please visit the online version of this article to access the event’s link.
The majority of southeastern municipalities will be subject to fire restrictions as the CFA’s Fire Danger Period (FDP) begins at 1am Monday 9 December.
Applying to the City of Casey, Cardinia Shire Council as well as the City of Greater Dandenong, residents are encouraged to use the remaining time to prepare their properties ahead of the FDP.
This includes cleaning up dry grass, leaves and other flammable materials, as well as completing safe private burn-offs while they are still permitted.
The CFA’s southeast deputy chief officer, Trevor Owen stressed the importance of taking early action as conditions continue to dry across the region.
“Now is the time for residents to act by clearing around their homes and ensuring any pri-
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
An illegal dumper of a half-a-truckload of waste on Glasscocks Road, Lyndhurst has been caught on a covert camera.
Jinquin Yang pleaded guilty at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court to dumping the 4-cubic-metre pile of rubbish including a bath on the side of the rural road on 17 August.
Greater Dandenong Council’s covert cameras had captured Yang’s truck tipping out the load in the dumping hotspot.
The truck was owned by a Berwickbased company run by Yang’s father.
In an interview with council officers, Yang said he’d been paid to collect the waste from a Berwick friend.
But the decision to dump the waste illegally “has nothing to do with my friend”, Yang told the court on 22 November.
“You basically took a short-cut and dumped it on a vacant road,” magistrate Hugh Radford said.
“You couldn’t be bothered to go to a waste disposal unit and paying the fee.”
Yang, who had no prior convictions, said he had followed others who had littered at Glasscocks Road in the past.
Noting the maximum fine of $47,500, Mr Radford said the penalty should deter other illegal dumpers.
“I’ve seen the photos – it’s a large load and there’s plenty of other rubbish floating around the site as well.”
Yang was fined $7000 without conviction.
vate burn-offs are completed safely before restrictions come into effect,” he said.
“Even though grasslands might still look green in some areas, the ground underneath is much drier than in previous years, which makes fires more likely to spread.
“After much consultation, there was strong support for introducing the fire danger period now to keep our communities as safe as possible.”
Owen also added that there is a shared responsibility in fire prevention and that “CFA members are ready to respond and support communities as we head into another bushfire season”.
“But we can’t do it alone - fire prevention is a shared responsibility.
“Using common sense and taking proactive steps, like preparing your property and follow-
ing fire restrictions, are key to reducing the risk of fires.
“These actions can make a significant difference in keeping our communities safe,” he said.
For those who are conducting burn-offs, they must notify authorities online at the Fire Permit Victoria website, or by calling Triple Zero Victoria on 1800 668 611.
By registering the burn-off online, it allows emergency call takers to allocate more of their time to taking calls from those who need emergency assistance immediately.
Other councils in the southeast subject to the FDP include Frankston Shire Council, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council, Bass Coast Shire Council, French Island and the City of Kingston.
Also in the list were Baw Baw Shire Coun-
cil, South Gippsland Shire Council, Wellington Shire Council, East Gippsland Shire Council and Latrobe City Shire Council.
During the FDP, no burning-off is permitted without a Permit to Burn, which can be applied for through the Fire Permits Victoria website.
It must also be noted that lighting fires without a permit can bring a penalty of more than $21,800 and/or 12 months imprisonment.
For more information about FDPs visit cfa. vic.gov.au/warnings-restrictions/fire-dangerperiod/fire-restriction-dates or call VicEmergency on 1800 226 226.
As for the fire permits, they can be applied for at firepermits.vic.gov.au
Food truck rental business KDS Gourmet won Casey Business of the Year 2024.
“Their unique business model, which rents food trucks to aspiring food entrepreneurs, has revolutionised the industry by lowering the barrier to entry with minimal upfront costs, so their customers can focus on growing their own entrepreneurial dreams with confidence,” Casey Council stated.
“They also provide ongoing support to their clients with strategic advice, resources and invaluable industry connections, supporting their clients to thrive while sustainably working to grow the local economy.
“KDS Gourmet’s dedication to pioneering solutions has redefined the food service industry. Their flexible rental options, cost-effective solutions and strategic partnerships have positioned them as leaders in facilitating accessible and sustainable business ventures.”
The food truck also won the Innovation category award.
Winners of each of the categories were also celebrated at the awards ceremony at Bunjil Place on Friday 15 November, which was attended by Casey’s newly elected councillors, including deputy mayor Cr Melinda Ambros, Cr Scott Dowling, Cr Kim Ross, Cr Shane Taylor, mayor Cr Stefan Koomen and Cr Michelle Crowther.
Casey Business of the Year Category Award
Winners:
· Community Contribution: Nobody Puts Furbaby in the Corner Grooming
· Nobody Puts Furbaby in the Corner Grooming is a young, yet impactful business which has quickly become a cornerstone of their com-
munity, through strong support of their local economy, customers and beloved dogs.
· Customer Experience: iRock Music School
· Cherished local institution, iRock Music School leads with their commitment to personalised, engaging and rewarding music education, which ensures students can start playing parts of their favourite songs from the first lesson.
· Employment Diversity: Outlook Australia
· Outlook Australia delivers on their guiding mission — to ensure that people with disabilities and those facing disadvantage have the same
rights and opportunities as other community members, every day.
· Home-Based Business: SANA Skin Clinic SANA Skin Clinic is renowned for its innovative approach to skincare and wellness, while its home-based clinic creates a nurturing and personalised environment, fostering comfort and trust among its clients.
For more information about the awards and each of the winners, visit: businessincasey.com. au/news/casey-business-awards-2024-winnersannounced
UP THUMBS DOWN
Thumbs up
To Cardinia Shire for running the textile drop-off event. We cleared out a few drawers.
Thumbs down
To the long grass from Army Road to Mount Burnet to Cockatoo and up to Avonsleigh it’s so bad that you can’t see if animals are coming out onto the road.
Thumbs up
To the patient and friendly people in society. Thank you.
Thumbs down
To state government - nice grand opening of the rail station in Pakenham but the bus interchange still not running.
Thumbs up
To Australia Post, this year’s Christmas stamps are beautiful. My overseas friends are going to love receiving a koala on their card.
Pop along to Summerset Cranbourne North’s upcoming Open Days, enjoy some refreshments, and tour the brand-new range of Hibiscus homes.
These premium single-level villas are a range of ground or lift accessible, upper-level homes featuring two spacious bedrooms, bathroom, powder room, and internal access garage. Featuring open-plan kitchen, living and dining with either a generous garden or balcony with views over the neighbouring park, they’re perfect for entertaining friends and family.
Once complete, residents of Summerset Cranbourne North# will be able to enjoy a range of resort-style facilities, including an indoor swimming pool and spa, resident bar, café, exercise room, hair and beauty salon, recreational bowling green and resident workshop.
With two-bedroom Hibiscus homes available with flexible pricing from $721,500,* you could be loving the Summerset life sooner than you think.
Love the life you choose.
Open Days Friday 6 & Saturday 7 December, 10am - 2pm
Summerset Cranbourne North 98 Mannavue Boulevard, Cranbourne North 03 7068 5642 | cranbourne.sales@summerset.com.au
By Sahar Foladi
A young aspiring artist has crafted a creative way to adjust to life in Melbourne’s South-East.
Narges Hazareh, of Noble Park, dreams of establishing a successful career in art after many challenges keep her from doing just that as an Afghan refugee who lived in Iran for the past 20 years.
Born and raised in Afghanistan, her family fled the country as a Hazara minority to Iran. She describes life as “difficult” while facing racism from Iranians.
“I left Afghanistan very young, so I don’t remember much about my homeland.
“We were not allowed to open a business, have a sim card or a bank account.
“I was subjected to racism from Iranians and told I should work as a cook or a tailor – low level jobs associated with Afghans. It broke my spirit, so I stopped my studies. It was at that point that I decided that I had to leave Iran.”
She wanted to study IT but as an Afghan refugee wasn’t allowed to attend university in Iran. So she stopped studies after Year 9 taking on jobs at hair salons, did pedicures to support herself financially and that’s when she discovered resin art and unlocked her creative potential.
However, the Iranian Government’s restrictions restricted her from practising her passion on a larger scale.
Resin art is created when a runny chemical called epoxy resin is combined with various colour pigments and additives to produce a blend of unique patterns and textures.
“I started very small watching an artist do basic techniques. I learned the basics and then I studied more at home.
“I started selling pieces and hired people to help me, but I was not allowed to set up a business by the Iranian authorities because I was a refugee. But in the future, I would like to start a business selling my artwork here in Australia.”
It has been five-months since she migrated to Australia, improving her English language and even setting up workshops in February next year sharing her passion and teaching the process of resin art, supported by her AMES case manager Farzana.
Farzana has connected Narges with an arts group in Hampton Park. which had led to opportunities and her flourishing as an artist.
“Upon her arrival, she felt excited and eager to grow her art.
“In her first meeting with me, she shared her artistic skills and asked for help in connecting with organisations that could support her goals in Australia.”
While it’s exciting and nerve-wrecking to start a new life in a new country, Narges misses her siblings and her partner who are still in Iran, hoping to bring them to Australia with her.
“I am very close to them. I was struggling when I first came, feeling overwhelmed and missing them.
“Now I feel a little bit better but my heart still feels very tightened sometimes thinking of them.”
Her upcoming workshop is considered to be a breakthrough in her career, helping her to keep busy and move closer to achieving her dream.
Speaking of her first upcoming workshop, she says she is eager to help people who are inter-
ested to learn.
“I feel very good. I really want to teach them everything I know and it’ll be a very proud moment for me.”
She has conducted workshops in Iran after she started to attract pupils to her resin art journey.
Narges creates physical objects like diary covers, bookmarks, clocks and much more with resin. The young and motivated artist is full of potential saying she welcomes anyone who is willing to learn from her.
She regularly posts her works and its progress on her Instagram page @Gallery_sun.
By Ethan Benedicto
The rental affordability in Greater Melbourne, which includes the City of Casey, has deteriorated, with a rental affordability index (RAI) score of 118 and reaching a level of ‘moderately unaffordable’.
According to the Rental Affordability Index 2024, households are spending 25 per cent of their income alone on rent, which is dangerously close to the housing stress threshold of 30 per cent.
To be precise, an RAI score between 121 to 150 is considered acceptable where around 20 to 25 per cent of the share income is spent on renting.
The higher tier, with an index score of 151 to 200 is still considered acceptable, where 15 per cent or less of the household income is spent on rent.
A score of 120 down to 101 is considered moderately unaffordable, where 25 to 30 per cent is spent on rent.
In Greater Melbourne, the most substantial conditions would be dual-income couples with children, with the latest report detailing a very affordable status, an RAI score of 203 and spending 15 per cent of their annual income on rent.
This applies to the assumed household income of a combined $219,096 per annum, at a home with three bedrooms with both parents and or guardians working full-time.
Those in the most dire conditions, with an RAI score of 30 and labelled as critically unaffordable, are single persons on JobSeeker payments who would see 99 per cent of their income spent on rent, according to an estimated annual household income of $24,723.
The threshold according to the report is an RAI score of 100 and the percentage of wages spent on rent at 30 per cent, below this, from a score of 100 down to 81 sees 30 to 38 per cent of income spent and is labelled as unaffordable.
Berwick held an RAI score of 109 and was la-
belled as moderately unaffordable; Narre Warren and Narre Warren South had a score of 115 and were also moderately unaffordable.
Beaconsfield and Guys Hill had a score of 113, also moderately unaffordable, with both Hampton Park and Hallam considered to be acceptable for renting, with a score of 124.
Cranbourne, including its eastern, western, southern and northern regions, as well as Junction Village, Botanic Ridge, Cannons Creek, Skye and Sandhurst were also moderately unaffordable with a score of 115.
Clyde and Clyde North are also labelled as moderately unaffordable with a score of 108.
According to the most recent June quarter 2024 report of the Homes Victoria Rental Report, the City of Casey has seen a 16.6 per cent growth in active bonds over the last five years, which highlighted the municipality’s popularity among renters.
With 25,491 active bonds, Casey remains among the top cities that contribute to the rental housing stock in the southeastern region of Greater Melbourne, however, there is limited affordability for low-income renters, with only 3.6 per cent of new lettings in the overarching southeast region considered affordable.
Larger homes with three to four bedrooms are slightly more affordable, however, rising demands have caused rent inflation in this category as well.
Specifically, Berwick’s median rent for a three-bedroom house is $520 per week, with a significant 15.6 per cent annual increase from the same period last year.
For Cranbourne, the median rent for a three-bedroom house is $500 a week, with an 11.1 per cent increase from last year; two-bedroom flats on the other hand only have a slight decrease in price, sitting at $420 per week and saw a 15.1 per cent increase from the previous year’s quarter.
Around Narre Warren to Hampton Park, the
median rent for a three-bedroom home is $500 with a 13.6 per cent annual increase, while Pakenham saw the median price of $485 per week and a 15.5 per cent annual increase.
Dandenong tops the price with $550 per week for the median price on a three-bedroom home, seeing a big increase of 22.2 per cent, while Springvale has the same price of $550 and a slight difference with a 21.4 per cent increase from the previous year.
Based on the RAI, single full-time working parents, single-income couples with children and student sharehouses share the same score of 101 and the same 30 per cent of their income spent on rent alone, with all three living conditions labelled as moderately unaffordable.
Minimum-wage couples had an RAI score of 96 and are considered to be on unaffordable grounds with 31 per cent of their income spent on rent.
Hospitality workers have an RAI score of 80, but with 38 per cent of their rent as a share of
income, conditions were considered to be unaffordable.
Dropping down to a score of 63, pensioner couples saw 48 per cent of their income go towards rent and are considered to be severely unaffordable; likewise, a single pensioner has an RAI score of 48 seeing an immense 68 per cent of their income going towards rent.
Single part-time worker parents on benefits are labelled as extremely unaffordable, and are second last on the list, with a score of 46 and seeing 65 per cent of their income for rent.
However, according to the Homes Victoria Rental Report, there is a relatively consistent turnover rate in the southeastern region, with tenancy lengths longer for family-oriented homes where average durations exceed 24 months.
Despite being the more affordable region as compared to the inner suburbs of Melbourne, the southeast’s 15.8 per cent increase in rent is outpacing wage growth.
By Ethan Benedicto
The attendance of what has been confirmed to be neo-nazis at the community-wide gathering at a local lake has sparked concerns, spelling a bad omen for what was initially a consultation issue.
Guru Nanak Lake, which previously held the name of Berwick Springs Lake, attracted a crowd of over 600 people on the night of Tuesday 19 November, where one of the organisers of the petition to repeal the renaming, Michael Ball, spoke on the lack of consultation and the appropriateness of the new name.
He was accompanied by other speakers such as Berwick MP Brad Battin and Southeastern Metropolitan MP Ann-Marie Hermans, as well as local resident Monique Davis whose family had lived in the estate since 1972.
These men had communicated no prior information with Ball or co-organiser Aldonio Ferreira and neither with either of the MPs.
Ball, regarding their presence in the crowd, said that he “didn’t think much of it”.
“They weren’t invited, not by Brad’s team and they certainly weren’t invited by me.
“Nobody knew they were there, and they didn’t have any impact on what we were talking about.
“I don’t think they have an influence on the campaign whatsoever, [they’re] completely irrelevant.”
Ball highlighted that the area around the lake is a public space, and that “it’s not my place to say who can or can’t visit”.
He added that the campaign and the petition have “nothing to do with them” and that the locale’s message remains very clear.
The men, who were clad in black and bore a similar logo to that of the neo-nazi group European Australia Movement (EAM), were gathered at the back of the crowd with a camera in tow for the duration of the speeches.
They were observed taking photos of the
event, as well as positioning for a group photo near the edges of the lake after the meeting was over and as the crowd dispersed.
An Opposition spokesperson stated that “upon becoming aware of these individuals, Victoria Police were immediately alerted and Liberal MPs in attendance left the event”.
The men made little to no contact with the local residents and kept mostly to themselves.
Two VicPol officers were observed at the scene and remained until the men left.
We encourage every student to pursue excellence in all endeavours and aim to ensure every student achieves their best potential so they are ready - not just for the completion of their final exams but for life! To find out more and to apply please visit our website or use the QR Code.
Twilight Christmas Makers Market and Lighting of the Christmas Tree event will return to Bunjil Place on Saturday 30 November.
Bunjil Place Plaza will transform into an outdoor market, featuring over 70 stalls brimming with goods and foods.
Live music, little elves’ workshops, food trucks, an outdoor bar, and roving performers will also be presented on the day.
Casey’s newly elected mayor and councillors will light up the Bunjil Place Christmas Tree at 8pm.
This year’s tree is presented in collaboration with the City of Casey’s Aboriginal Gathering Place.
Together with the Yarn and Art collective, they have curated beautiful works of art that will be featured in the decoration of the tree, celebrating both the festive season and the rich cultural heritage of the local Indigenous community.
The Bunjil Place Twilight Christmas Makers Market is presented in partnership with The Creative Assembly Co. Emma Bentley from the Creative Assembly Co. said: “Over 70 stallholders featuring Melbourne’s finest makers and shakers will be selling their wares on Saturday ready to fulfil your Christmas shopping needs from handcrafted pens, to pop culture earrings, fairy gardens, handmade fedoras, treats and accessories for the doggo’s and everything else in between.
“We have you covered on dining options with plenty of savoury and sweet options. From paella, smoked meats, Thai, Polynesian and pizza for the main with waffles, doughnuts, baklava and ice cream for dessert.” Entry to the Twilight Christmas Market and Lighting of the Tree event is free.
Sunrise2Sunrise is a Registered NDIS provider that does things differently. We take pride in offering professional services traditionally only provided in larger corporate Disability Support organisations, but take a personalised approach. We tailor our services to each and every participant and all our services are in accordance with the Disability Act 2006, NDIS Act 2013 and Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities act 2006. At Sunrise2Sunrise we’re about relationships - people always come first.
The Sunrise2Sunrise staff - or as we call them, our Life Changers - are selected for their experi-
ence in the Disability Support Industry. Our team are NDIS Rockstars, and support people’s lifestyles to help them find their strengths and abilities in a variety of settings to suit our participants needs. Whether it be through 1:1 community participation, in house supports or SIL/SDA accommodation. We strive for our participants at Sunrise2Sunrise to live their best life.
Sunrise2Sunrise is proud to be able to support participants who want to live independently. Participants who have SIL funding in their plan can access the SIL service. The planning for SIL support uses a person-centred approach to help par-
ticipants reach their goals while facilitating their culture, lifestyle and circumstances. The support is delivered respectfully in a participant’s home by Sunrise2Sunrise to advance skills for independent living.
The customised support will ensure the participant is central to all decision-making to best suit their wants and needs. Participants can adapt their SIL support to align with their life at any stage.
Sunrise2Sunrise use the social support model to help extend a participant’s independence beyond their home, to allow them to enjoy experi-
ences in their local area while building up their confidence to make meaningful lifestyle choices. As participants’ independence and confidence grow, their ties to the community grow too. From here, they will be able to try new experiences and further develop accomplished skills in existing leisure’s and hobbies. The participant can develop skills through community programs like gardening, volunteering, and public events.
The sky’s the limit!
Sunrise2Sunrise is situated at 43 Treloar Lane, Pakenham, 9188 3499.
By Violet Li and Cam Lucadou-Wells
Casey Council candidates as well as a politics expert have spoken out on how few “non-Anglo” councillors were elected from a widely diverse field of candidates.
In the six wards across Casey South during the October election, about half of the candidates come from a diverse background.
However, out of the 12 newly elected councillors there are only two from a diverse background.
In neighbouring Greater Dandenong, it was the reverse - nine of the 11 councillors are from a non-Anglo-Celtic background.
Casey Council candidate Kasuni Mendis, who comes from a diverse background, said she was saddened that there appeared to be a racial element at play across voting patterns in Casey.
“My desire was to represent all the people of the Kowan Ward regardless of their ethnic origins and to bring a youthful energy and perspective to help further our community’s interests,” she said.
She said she was in disbelief that being a young woman of colour would effectively disadvantage her in an electoral contest in this day and age.
“But I am proud of the campaign I fought, the many, many conversations I had with local people, and the fact that I conducted myself with diligence, honesty and integrity at all times.”
Another Casey Council candidate Kanu Aggarwal, who also comes from a diverse background, said people were remaining in their comfort zone by still voting for candidates from traditional backgrounds.
“They are scared of change. They talk about the change, but they are scared of change,” she said.
Ms Aggarwal said the disproportionate racial representation in the newly elected council relative to the diverse population in Casey was not good.
“This is not good in regard to creativity. This is not good in regard to welcoming new ideas and challenging the old ones which are not working for the community,” she said.
“Because if there are different people from different backgrounds, then we need to think from different perspectives rather than the same old white policies. I’m not saying that we need to change those policies completely, but we need to welcome the ideas and creativity from diverse
backgrounds.
“These people need their voices to be heard.”
Ms Aggarwal said the younger generation needed to come forward.
“The older generation needs to give a chance to the younger generation rather than be hungry for the power when they’re 70 or 75 years old.”
In Casey, there was also widely-reported racist graffiti on candidate signboards.
Associate Professor Mario Peucker, of Victoria University, said this may have been due to a “backlash in the community against the relatively rapid demographic changes”.
“It’s the change that triggers the backlash … the sense of losing control of the cultural landscape.”
Dr Peucker said he was taken aback by how non-diverse the elected Casey Council was.
But on closer inspection, some candidates still gained 15 to 20 per cent of the primary vote but were defeated on preferences, he said.
“Soit’snotliketheywerecompletelyshunned,” he said.
He said “non-Anglo” voters didn’t necessarily vote for “non-Anglo” candidates and might tend to vote for “white” candidates due to an “internalised racism”.
“A person of colour thinks I’d rather vote for someone who knows the system, so I’ll vote for a white person,” he said.
According to the 2021 census, about 42 per cent of Casey residents are born overseas and about 77 per cent of them are born in non-English
speaking countries.
Dr Peucker said in time, Casey might accept a more diverse council such as in the neighbouring Greater Dandenong.
“Casey is not as matured in its multicultural nature, whereas Greater Dandenong is much more established. It just takes a bit of time,” he said.
In the past, Casey had a “bad reputation in the multicultural community”, fuelled by fiery council debates against proposed mosques. But it has done a lot recently to address the issue, such as helping to find a South East Anti-Racism Support Network with Greater Dandenong and Cardinia councils.
“It’s on the right track,” Dr Peucker said. Casey Council was contacted for comment.
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
More than 200 workers at a Woolworths warehouse in Dandenong South joined a nationwide indefinite strike on Thursday 21 November.
United Workers Union logistics director Dario Mujkic said about 220 unionised staff out of the warehouse’s 300-workforce were on strike until Woolworths reopened EA negotiations.
Three other Woolworths warehouses were hit by strike action in Victoria and NSW, with a frozen goods warehouse in west Melbourne joining the next day, 22 November.
At Dandenong South distribution centre (DC), about 2 million cartons of ambient goods are stored and distributed to supermarkets each week.
A striking worker, who didn’t wish to be named, said supermarket shelves would start becoming emptier in coming days.
Bulkier goods that are harder to store onsite would be first affected – such as toilet rolls, bottled water and soft drink.
He said workers were seeking pay rises and the scrapping of performance targets – dubbed the Framework - that he says are unsafe.
In the lead-up to Christmas, he said he was prepared to remain on strike without pay for at least two weeks.
“It’s very positive at the moment. Everyone is nervous – everyone has families to support, mortgages to pay.
“We know we have to suffer to reap the benefits.”
He said they were seeking a “living wage” – a raise from $35 an hour to $38 an hour in the next EA’s first year to keep up with cost of living.
On those figures, the proposed first-year raise would be about 8.5 per cent. However, Woolworths claims the union proposal is 14
per cent and “significantly above inflation”.
Warehouse workers also argue the Framework was a dangerous standard that would cause injuries to workers in their rush to keep
up, he said.
According to the supermarket chain, the Framework was developed with “safety as an inherent component”.
“The union has asked for no measurable performance rates,“ a Woolworths spokesperson said.
“Less than 2 per cent of our team have experienced coaching or retraining under the framework to improve productivity.“
UWU national secretary Tim Kennedy said workers needed a “proportionate wage increase to deal with the cost pressures they face”.
“Big corporations like Woolworths have accrued ever-increasing profits in this period contributing to growing wealth inequality in Australia.
“No one wants to see bare supermarket shelves in the lead up to Christmas. Woolworths can fix this by coming back to the table and negotiating a fair agreement.”
Kennedy said the Framework “has the potential to increase risk in an already very dangerous industry pushing people to work faster for fear of losing their jobs”.
A Woolworths spokesperson said there wasn’t expected to be “immediate impact” on stores.
“We have extensive contingency plans in place to minimise any ongoing impact to customers, including significantly increasing stock levels in stores serviced by these DCs, and utilising the other 20 DCs and 8,000 team members in our network to ensure regular deliveries to stores.
“We have already put forward several offers with competitive pay that is above industry standards, above local market rates, above inflation, and well above the Award.
“Over the past seven years, team members at these four DCs have had pay rises above inflation, and the most common earnings for full time team members is between $85,000 and $95,000.”
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By Ethan Benedicto
International music superstars retain those labels for a reason, through melodic prowess, musical discography, or even just their sheer aura to woo crowds from around the globe.
Travis Scott arrived in Melbourne for his Circus Maximus world tour, rocking Marvel Stadium and the CBD on 22 October with classics from Goosebumps to viral hits from his latest album Utopia with tracks such as Fein and Modern Jam.
Now, there is no question that such an artist’s presence would have its after-effects, with local radios and club DJs guaranteed to be singing their tunes for the next few weeks.
But what about just a day after the performance, and how about 40 kilometres to the southeast; and how about at District 14 in Narre Warren on a Wednesday night?
Live music venue and club owner Dominic said that having someone like Travis Scott come down to Narre Warren took a lot of effort from his team—an effort that is a leap forward in making the southeast the place to be for live music events.
“Look, to be honest, the southeast was missing a live music space,” Dominic said.
“We bought Empire as a nightclub but had the vision of changing it to live music and I believe we’ve been successful in doing that.
“As well as a club, people see the importance it has for the community, and we’ve had every single local artist you can think of performing at nights, and they will show up frequently because they see our vision.”
When District 14’s post first hit Instagram on 17 October, many could hardly believe it, with one commenter saying that “this might be the craziest night in the history of Narre” and another user who was more amazed than anything, asking “how has my home done this”.
There have been major steps previously taken by the City of Casey’s Live and Local campaign in
bolstering the area’s potential as the beacon for live music, where in July this year many artists, local and from around the state, took to venues in Berwick and Cranbourne.
As for District 14, it has been steadily building its reputation since its rebranding from Empire, with Dominic and his team aiming to not only create an electric atmosphere for major acts but also to serve the community and build the foundations for that growing music scene outside of the CBD.
“Bringing these big artists I think is important for the southeast, because it’s creating and giving people an opportunity to be able to go out and see these people instead of having to pay for an expensive ticket at Rod Laver or Marvel Stadium,” he said.
“It’s important to us to make these experiences accessible; people don’t want to travel to the city, spend heaps on transport, and deal with the logistics of getting home at 5am, so bringing big artists here allows locals to enjoy live music without that hassle.”
Event and marketing manager Carlo echoed Dominic’s statements, where he also highlighted the positive impact towards local talent that these events could have.
“Now we’ve got the ability to facilitate these [kind of] shows, which gives these local artists a certain opportunity; like, how many DJs that live in Narre Warren or in the southeast can say, ‘I played before Travis Scott that week’,” he said.
“It’s cool being able to do that for people, it’s about giving those opportunities while also bringing in the big names.”
Hosting Travis Scott wasn’t just about booking the megastar, it was about proving that not just District 14, but Narre Warren and the southeast are worthy of world-class performers; and that outside of the city, it’s the place to be.
According to Dominic, the journey involved showcasing their track record, where the venue has hosted big names such as YG, T.I., Neo and
“When Travis came on stage, I could see disbelief in the crowd’s faces,” Dominic said.
“It took them a few minutes to realise that yes, this was actually happening in Narre Warren.
“He was only supposed to stay for a short set but ended up performing for an hour and that’s a testament to the crowd’s energy and the vibe of the venue.”
The night is a recorded feat for the southeast, where international stars play their biggest hits in the little nook and cranny of Narre Warren, cementing the venue’s and the area’s ability to hold its own to the rap sheet of the inner city and the
CBD’s capabilities.
However, the train’s going strong, with Quavo set to hit the venue on Friday 29 November.
Dominic said that they’re “not stopping”.
“We’ve got major plans for next year, from international artists to local bands, our goal is to keep bringing the city to the southeast.”
For Narre Warren locals and beyond, this was more than just an artist’s visit to a local venue, it’s a cultural shift, bringing world-class music to their doorstep and proving that the Southeast is no longer just a stopover on the way to the CBD.
By Violet Li
The State Government is pushing ahead with the project to expand the Port of Hastings for the future assembly of offshore wind farms, despite the Federal Government vetoing the original project in January this year.
Despite the rejection, the State Government has continued to support the project.
It opened the public consultation of the draft scoping requirements of the Environment Effects Statement (EES) on 19 November.
According to the State Government, the purpose of the EES is to provide “a sufficiently detailed description of the project, assess its potential effects on the environment and assess alternative project layouts, designs and approaches to avoid and mitigate effects”.
The scoping requirement sets out the proposed specific environmental matters to be investigated and documented in the EES.
The project, known as the Victorian Renewable Energy Terminal (The Terminal), proposes to “develop and operate a facility to serve as a base for the assembly of offshore wind farms” at the Port of Hastings.
According to the initial proposal submitted for the referral of the Department of Environment, it involves 25 ha of vegetation clearing on the existing reclaimed land site, reclamation of 29 ha of seabed for a wharf structure and 92 ha of potential dredging to allow deeper ship access to wharf structure from the existing channel.
It is also proposed that the newly reclaimed land would be formed using the dredged material if feasible and further imported material.
Federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek rejected the proposal publicly in January this year. In her statement, she said that although detailed project specification and environmental assessment had not been undertaken, she noted and accepted the advice from the department’s Wetland Section Line Area that the information provided was sufficient to conclude that the project was “clearly unacceptable”.
She noted that a large part of the proposed development was within the internationally protected Western Port Ramsar Wetland (WPRW).
“Large areas of the WPRW will be destroyed or substantially modified as a result of direct impacts of the proposed action,” she stated.
“The proposed action is likely to cause irreversible damage to the habitat of waterbirds and migratory birds and marine invertebrates and fish that are critical to the ecological character of the WPRW.
“[It is also likely to cause] adverse impact on the habitat or lifecycle of native species dependent on the wetland, negatively impacting the ecological character of the WPRW and adverse impact on the ecological character of the WPRW is not only likely but unavoidable.”
In the recently published draft scoping requirement for EES, the project still includes land reclamation and dredging to allow for ship access, but the total reclamation size has shrunk to 18 ha, compared with the 29 ha in the initial proposal. The 18 ha reclamation now contains 12 ha for the operational area and approximately 6 ha for a quay apron.
The new dredging area has not been shared in the existing public document.
Subject to federal approval, construction activities are scheduled to commence in late 2027, with the terminal expected to be operational by 2030, two years later than the initial document.
Chief executive officer of the non-profit organisation Western Port Biosphere Mel Barker said the project was still in the beginning process.
“We’re going to need to wait until these scientific studies are completed before anyone can really form a view on whether they are acceptable or not,” she said.
“We’re looking closely at these scoping requirements just to make sure they are doing all the studies that need to be done from that perspective.”
Ms Barker said the organisation strongly supported the accelerated transition away from fossil fuels to renewables, but it needed to make sure these renewables projects were designed and implemented in a way that protected the international significance of Western Port.
“Western Port is an internationally significant wetland in part because of its mudflats,” she said.
“Those mudflats are critical, feeding grounds for thousands of birds, some of which migrate from the northern hemisphere and need that
The Mornington Peninsula and Western Port Biosphere Foundation has appointed Geoff Brooks as chair.
He has succeeded retiring chair Jo McCoy, who reached her maximum tenure of nine years on the Biosphere Foundation’s Board.
Geoff joined the Board in 2020, since then serving as deputy chair and treasurer.
In preparation for his transition to Chair, Geoff stepped down as treasurer in June to be replaced by Dr Paul Whitelaw, who joined the Board in April 2024 after providing specialist financial expertise for 18 months as a member of the Foundation’s Governance Finance and Risk Committee.
These new appointments coincide with other board changes.
The appointment of new board directors Clare Baker and Amy Richards was confirmed at the Biosphere Foundation’s Annual General Meeting.
Clare and Amy replaced Jo McCoy and Heather Johnson, who had retired.
“The board and executive recognise and thank Jo McCoy for her leadership as chair for the past five years and contributions as a director since 2015,” Mr Brooks said.
“She was one of a few directors and stakeholders who saved the Biosphere Foundation from an existential crisis in 2017 and has guided it to where it is today, an organisation with growing respect and influence across Western Port and its adjacent cities and shires.
food to survive.
“There are also seagrasses in that part of Western Port which, again, are a habitat for a number of species, but are also part of what is called blue carbon, something that draws down carbon and sequesters it in the muds of Western Port. From a climate perspective, it’s very important.
“Western Port, more broadly, has got a whole range of things. It’s got these mangroves and salt marshes that really protect our coastlines and help with carbon absorption.”
Shadow Minister for Energy, Affordability and Security, David Davis, said: “It’s clear that now from admissions in their Environmental Effects Statement materials that no work will commence at Hastings until at least 2027 and the plans for Hastings to be operational have slipped right out to 2030.
“Labor is now wedged through their own incompetence, between the closure of a key coal plant in 2028 and delays in meeting their offshore wind targets for 2032.
“The timeline to assemble offshore wind turbines at Hastings is now more than tight, it now looks unlikely, unless Labor sends the work, and jobs offshore, that is out of Victoria.
“Labor cannot manage money, cannot manage the energy system and Victorians are paying the price.”
The State Government has been contacted for comments.
The draft scoping requirements are open for public comment from 19 November 2024 until midnight on 11 December. Visit: engage.vic.gov. au/victorian-renewable-energy-terminal-eesscoping-requirements
“Key to this has been Jo’s relentless pursuit of improved governance across the organisation. This has included transitioning the board to skills-based recruitment while ensuring cultural fit with the values and aspirations of the Foundation and its stakeholders.”
Mr Brooks said the Foundation’s future would be defined by its capacity to partner effectively across three tiers of government and strategically with corporate, philanthropic and community partners.
“Despite the scientific evidence of climate change, biodiversity loss and their impacts, we still cannot take the future health and wellbeing of the planet, financial support for the Foundation, or even the prosperity and wellbeing of our communities for granted,” he said.
“We are facing challenging times politically, economically and environmentally, not least because of a communications bonfire fuelled by self-interest, disinformation and mischief.
“The best way to overcome this is to work with partners to evolve a clearly articulated, long-term and pragmatic vision for the Western Port Biosphere region, built around our core pillars of climate action, ecosystem protection and restoration, and sustainable development.
“A core component of this must be the development of a Strategic Framework for Western Port, within which governments, statutory bodies, businesses and communities can ensure that future living, amenities and services thrive within the natural environment rather than apart from and at the expense of it.”
Six local creatives have joined forces with architectural firm Sibling to transform Narre Warren Mechanics Hall into a bright, purpose-built creative hub.
The co-design is a major step in the Emerging Artists Creative Hub project and will feature spaces for individual studios, as well as shared spaces for messy and wet work, workshops, and small exhibitions of residents’ artworks.
City of Casey mayor Cr Stefan Koomen was thrilled with the project’s momentum.
“I am delighted that this project will bring further energy and opportunities for creatives and artists in the City of Casey,” he said.
“We hope that the specialised, dedicated spaces and collaborative opportunities will open new doors to skills growth and opportunity – we can’t wait to see the outcomes.”
Sibling director Amelia Borg said they were very excited to be working with the City of Casey to breathe new life into this special community building.
“The new hub will provide a place for emerging artists to experiment, make and come together,” she said.
Once the renovations are completed, the following six artists will take up residency in the Creative Hub for one year. The artists will work independently and collaboratively to develop their art practice and share skills and resources.
Navaal Saeed: photographer
Navaal’s plans over the course of the year are to fulfil his ambitions of capturing and exploring the intersection of identity, sport and culture — something that’s extremely meaningful to him, particularly football. His end goal is to create a photobook and/or exhibit it as a solo project.
Way Over There Collective: a collective of artists, creative producers and community organisers
Way Over There Collective works with arts organisations and the community to create opportunities, events and programs that platform and prioritise Black, Indigenous, and POC artists. They will use the space for each of their own practices, to meet as a collective and with collaborators, and to produce, shape and test new work.
Fathiah Raihan: henna artist and art therapy student
Working across printmaking, writing and painting, Fathiah’s practice is sustained by the relationships, communities and land that surround her. Fathiah’s works are created with the intention to be transformed and re-transformed for many years to come. During her residency, she would like to host henna appointments, private lessons and workshops.
Fausto Gallego: artist
Self-taught, Fausto has a love of pop culture, anime, cartoons, and character creation. Known for his use of dynamic forms, explosive colours and story rich artworks, residency at the Creative Hub will open doors for him to cohabitate with other artists. Fausto wants to use his time in to create local contacts and create an installation piece.
Anna Konecny: artist and jeweller
Anna creates beautiful art and jewellery using Mizuhiki, a traditional Japanese paper cord used for gift decorations with special meanings for events like weddings and anniversaries. Anna is looking forward to meeting new peers and seeing how other artists work. She will be running some workshops and is planning to end her residency with an exhibition.
RIDDIM: community-driven events organisation
RIDDIM represent diverse cultures through music, events, and community advocacy, offering an alternative to traditional Australian nightlife. During its residency, RIDDIM plans to host workshops in DJing, photography, videography, and design. They intend to collaborate with established individuals to provide mentorship and real-world insights. Located on Webb Street in Narre Warren, the Emerging Artist Creative Hub is supported through a $150,000 grant provided by the Victorian Government’s Creative Neighbourhood Infrastructure Support Program combined with a $185,660 investment from the City of Casey. The Hub is expected to be open in early 2025.
By Ethan Benedicto
Directing a film and acting in it are challenging in their own ways, but doing both at the same time is worthy of renown and such is the case for 20-year-old Endeavour Hills local Tay Barrientos.
Her piece, titled ‘Liar’ won the Best Feature Film Award during SmartFone FlickFest 2024 which took place between 15 to 17 November, with the hour-long thriller filmed solely on her iPhone.
Combining well-placed elements of music, lighting, visuals, framing and most of all, acting, Tay was more than surprised when she was called onto the stage to accept her award.
“I didn’t realise I had won, I thought [the announcer] was just calling me up to the stage,” Tay said.
“I get up there and she hands me the trophy and I read it and it says, ‘Best Feature Film’; she hands me the mic and tells me to start my speech and I say, ‘what?’.
“But of course, I’m thankful and I feel great, it’s amazing to see all the hard work pay off.”
The film, which was first released in September, follows the journey of Mackenzie Belmonte, who tragically loses her brother after a car accident.
However, not all is as it seems; with the loss cutting deep despite the siblings’ shaky relationship, Mackenzie stumbles upon Harmony Love (played by Hayley Christine) and her brother Donovan Love (played by Bailey Christopher) who, on the same night, were also involved in an accident.
The film is packed with moments of grief and sorrow, but also resilience, mystery and suspense, where scenes of Tay battling through her emotions are aplenty.
Tay first attended a SmartFone FlickFest event in 2022, where she recalled being amazed at what the festival had to offer.
Little did she know that two years later she would be the one on the podium with the trophy clutched in her arms.
“I was really excited, I was still in shock,” Tay said.
“I feel like it didn’t hit me that we won until the next morning because I woke up in my hotel room and I went and checked that I still had the trophy, it was like a dream.”
From simply being in front of a camera to sometimes forgetting to press record, Tay said that the filming process “did get a bit difficult”.
“Especially the scenes where it’s obviously just me in there, me in the room, it was a little bit weird.
“I’d be talking to myself because there’s a lot of phone calls [in the movie], there’s no one reading me the lines, or the other characters’ lines, I kind of just had to say it in my head.”
Close shots also proved to be quite daunting at first, despite the final product delivering strong bouts of emotional intensity.
“It was weird to get those kinds of angles, I had to really hold my phone to my face, I had no tripod or anything,” Tay said.
“You know, having to do the scene, pretending that I’m on the phone, my hands up around somewhere else.
“I was holding the phone super close to my face, those were the scenes I definitely hated the most, I said to myself, this is not a good angle for me.”
The film took its first steps in February this year, but Tay hit some hurdles and progress halted for a few months when she found herself having little to no motivation to pick it up again.
“For a few months, I was just like, ‘I can’t’, and I didn’t want to do it anymore you know? I kind of gave up on it,” she said.
However, things changed when a spark of inspiration hit her after watching the movie ‘Missing’, especially the 2023 movie’s use of text messages and media.
“I changed the script a little bit, then I altered it, I also had to film some more scenes and redo them in June,” Tay said.
“From there I began editing and it was finished in September.”
Studying psychology and criminology, Tay’s expertise wasn’t necessarily in the field of media, yet fuelled by a clear vision and a headstrong attitude, all of her pieces fell into place.
“I had an idea in my head, and I would write the script while I was imagining it,” she said.
“I knew how I wanted each line delivered, so as we filmed, and because a lot of the scenes had me in it, I was kind of just bossing myself
around in my head.”
The process of acquiring talent and filling in essential gaps such as music also proved to be a challenge, nevertheless, Tay remained resourceful, curating her own background melodies as well as sourcing key royalty-free music.
As for the talent and her co-stars, Tay got in touch with Hayley (Harmony Love), who she had met at a modelling event a few years prior.
From there, Bailey (Donovan Love) joined the team and told Tay that he was an aspiring actor, with Tay more than happy to provide him with a space to let loose his ambitions.
“For the characters and as I was writing, I made different random conversations that I would want in the film, even if I’m not going to use them.
“Donovan as a character, he wanted to be closed off and kind of creepy, and I knew I wanted Harmony to be one of those characters where you don’t know if you love her or hate her,” Tay said.
With a plot twist down the line, and considering that Tay has several alternate endings to ‘Liar’ completed and stored, there are plans of building herself up to more movies and “move
away from my smartphone”.
“I feel like if I was to use professional lighting and cameras, I would want a team helping me, I don’t know if I could do it by myself, but I definitely want to do that eventually,” she said. Over 40 awards across six categories were given during the event, with filmmakers, creatives and actors taking home prize packs worth in excess of $50,000.
As she savours her and her team’s award, Tay has a penchant for the directorial role, with any future projects seeing her possibly taking on a specific mantle.
Here’s 10 things you can do that will have your festive feelings flowing.
Decorate
Yes it’s an obvious one but decorating the space around you will remind you that it really is ‘the most wonderful time of the year’ as Andy Williams says. From your workplace to your home, string up some lights and wrap that tinsel around everything. If you aren’t going to put up a real Christmas tree this year, source some real pine needles for that extra special warm and fuzzy festive scent.
Host or attend a Christmas party
Find time in your busy schedule to unite with those you love to be around. Be it a lunch, Christmas cookie baking session or a group decorating effort, having your friends and or family together before the actual day of Christmas can really ignite your Yuletide spirit.
Visit some Christmas Lights
Doing a neighbourhood Christmas light walk or drive is not just an activity reserved for the youngsters. Appreciate the effort people go to at Christmas time to fuel the festive feels. A relaxing driveby or exciting brandy-charged stroll with friends never fails to deliver a smile.
Bake gingerbread
That’s right. -Let your creativity run rampant as you lose yourself in a world of flour, spices and sweets. Whilst there are a lot of great recipes out there, a lot of them require the gingerbread to be prepped the night before the building process.
Have a Christmas movie night
It is now that time of the year where you reach for
the classics. Elf, Love Actually, the Polar Express you name it. Get your fix of Christmas cinema whilst snuggled somewhere with a cuppa.
Add a touch of festivity to your outfits
It’s not dorky, rather it’s just joyful. Be it earrings, socks, a t-shirt or even a hair ribbon, turn each outfit into an opportunity to celebrate December.
Commit to your advent calendar
If you haven’t got one, get one. There’s nothing like the childhood excitement that accompanies the ticking off of each day in the lead up to Christmas. Whether it’s a calendar filled with goodies or with a quote for each day, make it a December ritual to reach each day with a smile. You can even make your own!
Be thoughtful
Christmas is a time of celebration and giving.
Whether it’s writing a Christmas card, doing something kind for someone or even preparing someone’s stocking, you’ll find that spreading cheer and thoughtfulness only enhances your own.
Listen to Christmas music
Don’t be a Grinch. Hurry up and finalise that playlist and listen as often as you can. A good dose of Buble whilst you’re cleaning, driving or putting up a tree cannot go amiss.
Attend a community Christmas carols
Go and watch your local choir perform or enjoy a CFA or community-hosted Christmas carols event. There will be so much Christmas spirit in the air that you are guaranteed to be infected. Join the Yuletide pandemic of enthusiasm and spread it as far as you can.
The stockings are hung, the lights are twinkling, and the countdown to Christmas is on with Santa and his elves once again ready to take your calls.
From now until Christmas Eve, kids of all ages can call Santa for free from any of Telstra’s 14,000-plus payphones by dialling #HO HO HO (#46 46 46).
Telstra says calling Santa isn’t just festive fun - it’s also a great way for kids to learn how to find and use a payphone in case of an emergency, especially if they’ve never used a non-mobile phone before.
Here are some handy tips:
Use Free Calls to Santa to teach kids what a payphone is and how they work.
With all standard national calls and texts free from Telstra payphones year-round, encourage
kids to memorise at least one important phone number, which can be a lifeline for those unexpected moments.
Fun fact: Every payphone has a unique number you can dial from your mobile. It’s a great way to show kids what an old-fashioned phone sounds like.
Santa’s elves have also helped bring some Christmas cheer to a special selection of payphones.
You can find your closest payphone using the payphone finder at telstra.com.au/findus?search=payphone
Use Free Calls to Santa to teach kids what a payphone is and how they work.
The Salvation Army this week launched its annual Christmas Appeal, aiming to raise $27 million to support the Australian community doing it tough during the festive season.
The launch coincides with new research by The Salvos, which found over 15.3 million Australians (72per cent) will be more mindful of their spending this Christmas compared to previous years, and over 4 in 10 (42per cent) will have their Christmas negatively impacted this year because of the cost of living.
Further, almost half of Australians (48per cent) will buy less presents for their children and loved ones, and an alarming 11.9 million people (56per cent) will spend less on food this Christmas.
The Salvation Army’s Major Bruce Harmer says these findings make the support of The Salvation Army vitally important this year.
“At The Salvos, we see first-hand how much people are really struggling, particularly as we head into a busy Christmas season,” he says.
“Our research has shown the full extent of what we are seeing; individuals and families are at breaking point, unsure how they will be able to afford Christmas.“
The research also found that while only 9.3per cent of Australians will be reaching out to a charity for help this Christmas, over 55per cent of these people will be doing so for the first time. This comes on the back of 67per cent being negatively impacted by the cost of living this year and more than 35per cent having been affected by loneliness, anxiety, depression or stress.
“Christmas is the busiest time of year for
The Salvos. It is a time that allows us to support people in their time of need, not just practically but also emotionally. While Christmas can be a time of joy and connection, for some, it can be a time of increased loneliness and isolation. We don’t want anyone to suffer alone, no child to go without a present, and no person to go without a special meal this Christmas. If you are struggling this Christmas, please reach out to The Salvation Army. We are here to help,“ Major Harmer added.
During the Christmas period last year, thanks to the generosity of the Australian public, The Salvation Army nationally received over 330,000 gifts and toys for families who might otherwise have gone without; provided over 184,000 meals to those experiencing homelessness; and provided more than 92,000 bed nights for families in need of accommodation during the festive season.
“The Salvos can’t continue to do our work without the support of the Australian public. It is through the generosity of Aussies that we can support those doing it tough across Australia. So please, if you can, consider donating to The Salvation Army’s Christmas Appeal,” said Major Harmer.
To help give a new beginning to someone in need, please donate to The Salvation Army’s Christmas Appeal by visiting salvationarmy.org. au or calling 13 SALVOS (13 72 58). Donations can also be made at any Salvos Store.
WithChristmasfastapproaching,KidsafeVictoria is offering a free resource to parents and carers to make safe toy choices. The Christmas Toy Safety Guide2024providespracticaladviceforselecting toysthataresafe,age-appropriate,andcompliant withsafetystandards—especiallywhenshopping onlineorpurchasingsecond-hand.
“We want to equip families with straightforward tips to make safe choices, especially as onlineandsecond-handshoppingarebecomingincreasingly popular,” said Kidsafe Victoria’s Sarah Sexton.
“A few minutes of attention to toy safety can prevent accidents and bring peace of mind duringtheholidayseason.“
Here’sKidsafeVictoria’skeytipsforworry-free Christmas shopping: Choose age-appropriate gifts: Toys should align with age recommendationstoavoidchokinghazards.
Remember to check that toys for older childrenarenotwithinreachofyoungerones.
Check safety standards and recalls: Always look for toys that meet Australian safety standards, especially when buying online or from international sellers. Be aware of toy recalls, which are updated on the Product Safety Australia website.
Bebatterysafe:Ensuretoyswithbatterieshave secure compartments, particularly those with button batteries. Inspect second-hand toys: For those buying second-hand, thoroughly inspect toys for small parts, wear and tear, and potential hazards,suchassecurebatterycompartments.
Ms Sexton said the Christmas Toy Safety Guide 2024 can be downloaded for free from the Kidsafe Victoria website, featuring detailed advice on everything from toy selection to storage andwhattodoincaseofanemergency.
“By following these tips, families can make safe choices that bring smiles to children without compromisingsafety,”shesaid.
Information:kidsafevic.com.au
and Violence Prevention Awards (ACVPA).
The non-profit legal services organisation’s ‘This isnotwhoIwanttobe’interactivetheatreprojecthas received a bronze award in the community-led categoryofthe2024ACVPA.
ACVPA recognises best practices in the preventionorreductionofviolenceandothertypesofcrime inAustralia.
DesignedforsecondaryschoolstudentsinCasey, PCLC’s project provides legal education on family violence and forced marriage to young people from multiculturalcommunities.
It was formed in response to data showing that teenage girls were already experiencing controlling relationshipsandfamilyviolenceandthatsomewere goingontoforcedmarriagesafterleavingschool.
PCLC’s chief executive officer Jackie Galloway
said the number of young people affected by family violencewithinthecommunitywas“waytoohigh”.
“We wanted to find a new way to deal with this problem by educating young people about the un-
derlying attitudes that support violence and to give themtoolstoquestionthis,”shesaid.
“By using theatre performance with professional actors to tell the story about the impacts of family violence and forced marriage, we have successfully educated teenagers who may experience these controllingsituations.
“This knowledge and these tools will allow them toshapeadifferentfuture.”
Holt MP Cassandra Fernando commended the project’s work to break the cycle of violence and the attitudesthatsupportit.
“For the past five years, Casey has recorded one ofthehighestratesoffamilyviolenceinVictoria,”she said.
“I congratulate PCLC for their work in finding creative ways to respond to this problem, not only through this award-winning project but also the free legalservicestheyoffertotheCaseycommunity.
“These include a school lawyer program in one
of the largest secondary colleges in Casey, which enables students access to free legal advice for their problems,aswellasongoinglegaleducationonfamily violence, youth crime, and other common youth lawproblems.”
The theatre project has been run in partnership with Uniting’s KOMAK program and a team of professional actors and theatre makers led by creative producer Tara Leigh Dowler, with original funding from the Victoria Law Foundation. Additional funding from the Victorian Legal Services Board has just been announced to extend the project to more schools in Melbourne’s outer south-east, which will also cover the issue of youth crime. The Peninsula Community Legal Centre provides free legal services across the south-east region of Melbourne, with a branch office in Cranbourne and other visiting services at community locations in Casey and Cardinia. SchoolsinterestedintheprojectcancontactPCLCat (03)97833600,emailpclc@pclc.org.au
Cranbourne Shire Historical Society
The group has a guest speaker at their next meeting on 28 November, at 7.30pm at the old school building located at 13 Mickle Street, Tooradin. The topic is THE CRANBOURNE METEORITE, guest speaker is author, Sean Murphy.
Twelve iron meteorites weighing between 3550 and six kilograms were discovered between the 1850,s and 1982 mostin the vicinity of Cranbourne and Devon Meadows.
• To reserve your seat, please contact: Sue on 0410460824 or Barry on 0427618518.
• Free admission to the talk. Supper provided. Twilight Christmas Makers Market and Lighting of the Tree
Join us for a magical evening at Bunjil Place for the beloved annual tradition. This cherished community event promises an unforgettable experience for all ages, attracting thousands every year.
Dive into the festive spirit at The Creative Assembly Co. Market, where over 70 stalls brim with delightful stocking fillers and unique Christmas gifts. There’s truly something for everyone on your Christmas gift list.
Beyond shopping, we’ve lined up a variety of activities that will captivate the kids and entertain the adults, ensuring a joyful experience for the whole family. Gather your loved ones and revel in the merriment of this much-loved event, filled with the warmth and joy of the holiday season.
• Saturday 30 November 3pm – 9pm, Lighting of the Christmas tree 8pm, Bunjil Place Plaza,
• Highlights: 110 Stalls inc. 10 Street Food & Drink Stalls, Kids Playground, Food Lawn with Live Acoustic Singer, Shaded Permanent Seating Area
• Sunday 1 December 2024, Sunday 2 February 2025, Sunday 6 April 2025, 10am - 2pm, Casey Central Park, free event
Berwick CWA
The Country Women’s Association Berwick Branch acknowledges recent support for their ’Spring Comes to Berwick 2024’ Fashion Show in September.
As promised, 100 per cent of profits from this event is supporting their Casey North Community Information and Support Service Christmas Appeal.
This is being donated as $4000 of food hampers for some of the community’s most vulnerable members and $500 of children’s toys.
The members of CWA Berwick recently voted unanimously that a further $500 be donated to Bk2Basics in Narre Warren and Have A Little Hope in Pakenham in the form of children’s presents.
A further $500 of food and presents supporting the local WAYSS branch is also being donated.
The CWA ladies are holding their Christmas Bake and Craft Stall at Akoonah Market on Sunday 1 December.
Cranbourne Senior Citizens Club
Community Day - Morning Melodies with The Hoffmans - Friday 6 December 10:30am-4pmincludes lunch and afternoon tea - Proudly sponsored by City of Casey.
present the Lynbrook Christmas Festival and Market! Saturday 7 December 4pm - 8.30pm
Get excited Lynbrook (and Surrounds) as this event is one to be added to your calendar. Santa is also coming to town!
Market stalls, rides, food trucks, SANTA, Charlie SillyPants, a stage program with several talented singers performing all your Christmas favourites, bubble wrangler, Chris Morant magic show, stilt walkers and did I mention rides?!
So dress up in your festive best and come enjoy what promises to be a great Christmas celebration.
Encourages to bring a picnic rug or chair to enjoy the stage.
Free entry too!
U3A Cranbourne
U3A Cranbourne is situated at 20-22 Bowen Street, Cranbourne. Most of our classes are held there except for Line Dancing and Ballroom Dancing which are held at Casey Basketball Stadium in Cranbourne. We are a community Group for anyone over 50 to learn, share and socialise. Supported by Casey Council we are a not-for-profit organisation with a fee of $50 per year. This fee allows members to join as many classes as they wish. A chance to make friends while you pursue a passion, be creative or exercise. Italian, Music, Board Games, Arts are just some of the wonderful activities on offer.
• Check out the courses on offer at our website www.u3acranbourne.org.au or call 0493 991 919 to learn more
Playgroup from 10.30am to noon on Wednesdays. The program provides fun play activities and craft for children at $5 per family.
Free knit and crochet from noon to 2pm on Wednesdays.
Line dancing from 1pm to 2pm on Wednesdays. All ages, and abilities welcome at $10 per class.
• For more information and for bookings, visit www.blindbightcommunitycentre.com.au
Casey Cardinia Life Activities Club
Are you new newly retired, or new to the area, or just wanting to enjoy your freedom as a senior or expand your social life?
Casey Cardinia Life Activities Club can offer you stimulating activities and friendship.
The club hosts weekly social activities with dance to low-key in-line dancing if you want to tap your feet, great music, a chat, and then afternoon tea. Day, short and long trips away via coach, a weekly morning coffee club, monthly Saturday country pub lunches, monthly Tuesday dine-outs, a weekly walking group, a weekly table tennis group, seasonal daytime musical theatre outings, entertainment function days and more.
Anyone interested can visit on Thursdays at 2pm for socialising and low-key dancing at Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House at 21A Bemersyde Drive or join the club for a coffee and a chat every Wednesday from 10am at the new François cafe in front of Myer in Fountain Gate.
• For more information, contact enquiry officer Gloria on 0468 363 616.
By Violet Li
Local charity Bakhtar Community Organisation is introducing a new strategy to make its essential workshop programs compulsory to facilitate the integration of newly arrived refugees.
The charity’s aid program provides material aid and integration programs such as cultural awareness sessions, employment pathway programs, and focus groups.
Founder and chief executive Bassir Qadiri said they had been conducting these free programs for almost four years and the only change was to make the integration programs compulsory for
attendance before the members received the material aids.
“The demand has increased, and people’s expectations have increased. The reason we made this integration program is to integrate them into Australian society and also provide them with the opportunity to understand and learn about their rights and responsibilities,” he said.
“When they have rights, they need to understand they have responsibilities too. They can always receive our support, but this program will be compulsory for attendance.
“I think making this compulsory as we’re providing them the opportunity to integrate.”
Mr Qadiri also highlighted that the charity had resettled and supported over 6,000 newly arrived refugees in the past four years and had delivered over three million worth of essential aid to newly arrived refugees and those facing severe risk of homelessness.
“We had hundreds of workshops. We have supported jobseekers. We provided the work opportunity experience at our warehouse to learn to communicate, and learn customer service, especially when it comes to multicultural communities,” he said.
“We have the program where we have helped those in debt. We supported over 100 individuals
paying off close to half a million worth of debt.
Mr Qadiri wanted to thank the volunteers for contributing hours to support the refugees.
“That’s why we want to have proper management, a smart way, a strategy so that we can integrate them as well because integration is more important for us rather than material,” he said.
“Material is a short-term need of the refugees that we are addressing, but integration is a longterm mission that we have.
“Making this program compulsory is going to empower the refugees to integrate into Australian society. It will promote harmony, acceptance, and embrace multiculturalism.”
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By Jonty Ralphsmith
Berwick interceptor Riak Andrew was selected by Sydney on the second night of the AFL Draft last week.
The Stingrays 19-year-old showed strong improvement throughout 2024, showcasing his athleticism and lockdown ability across different stages of the year.
Tied to Melbourne as a Next Generation Academy player and having been listed with the Dees’ VFL affiliate, Casey, he was overlooked by the club which had the opportunity to match Sydney’s bid.
“He’s had some injuries but really persisted,” Sydney recruiter Chris Keane said.
“He was on our radar from the midseason and from that point on we kept tracking him and with our need for a developing key back which we wanted to address if we could, that was of high importance and we were really happy to bring him in.
“Riak’s a different player to his brother and we saw that rate of development from Riak throughout the year.”
The brother of Gold Coast emerging star Mac spoke to the Pakenham Gazette prior to the draft about what he gained from his brother that will
transfer onto an AFL list.
“What I’ve learned from him is the professionalism it takes to be an AFL footballer,” Andrew told the Gazette last month.
“He’s had his problems in the first couple of years as an AFL footballer and he’s learned and matured from that.
“If you’re good enough, you’ll get there, but the hard work starts day one when you arrive at an AFL club, you can’t just get drafted and think you’ve made it.
“We’re fairly similar, both being fairly tall, skinny and athletic so I’ve just tried to model my game
By David Nagel
Dandenong West (226) has leapfrogged Beaconsfield (201) into the top four of the DDCA Turf 1 competition after Nuwan Kulasekara (5/24) led the Maroons to a crucial 25-run win over the Tigers at Perc Allison Oval.
On an ideal day for batting, the Bulls needed to make early inroads and it was Kulasekara who answered the prayers of his captain Anthony Brannan.
Kulasekara rattled the woodwork of out-ofform Tigers’ opener Tyler Clark (0) and number-three Sasith Livera (3) to have the home side in all sorts of trouble at 2/4.
Beaconsfield’s reply came via a steady innings from Andrey Fernando (26), who handed over to Abaseen Taniwal (40) and skipper Susantha Pradeep (53) for the crucial partnership of the day.
Taniwal and Pradeep had the Tigers in command at 3/133, but an inability to convert those impressive starts into a match-winning contribution would soon prove costly.
Pradeep fell to Adam Reid (2/47) to make it 4/133, and when Taniwal hit Malinga Bandara (2/58) to a jubilant Riley Siwes - on the same score - the Bulls were licking their lips at the prospect of victory.
Kulasekara then removed Ashan Madhushanka (8), Joel Matthews (1) and Mitch Tielen (4) in quick succession and the visitors were almost
home.
Michael Dunstan (31) then gave the Tigers a glimmer of hope before Bandara ruined the party.
Brannan was a relived Bulls’ skipper; knowing 226 was a reasonable score on day one but it could have been much better.
“Probably bit a bit of column A and column B to be honest,” Brannon began.
“Anytime you’ve got over 200 you’ve probably got enough to play with, but you have to bowl well.
“Having said that, we felt like we left 30 to 50 out there, with eight overs to bat, and a lot of blokes, including myself, getting to 15 to 25.
“That’s when you feel like you’re in and should get a few more, but we were guilty through the middle order of not doing that and that stopped us from getting to 250 to 280…which would have been more than enough.
“We feel like we bat deep and the aim is to bat 80 overs; if we do that, we feel like we won’t lose too many games of cricket.”
The Bulls have now won three and lost two, with their back-to-back wins against Narre South and Beacy coming hot on the heels of consecutive losses to North Dandenong and Hallam Kalora Park.
Their next three, against Buckley Ridges, Berwick and Springvale South, will give us a greater understanding of where the Bulls truly sit in the pecking order.
“I think we’ve proven, over five games now, that we’re competitive; even though we un-
off him – sag off, not initiate body contact, run and jump and use my athleticism.
“He’s been huge for me just giving me tips about how to be an AFL footballer.
“He’s (told me) first impressions are everything so if I land on an AFL list, then I’ll try to earn the respect of senior players and showcase why this club picked me.”
RIAK ANDREW
Junior Club: Berwick
Pick: 55
Club: Sydney
Position: Defender
By David Nagel
Berwick’s season - which was on the critical list after round five - is showing signs of life once again after the Bears (3/269) produced a clinical run-chase against Narre South (265) at Arch Brown Reserve.
The Bears, playing with renewed confidence after a drought-breaking win over Beaconsfield in round six, timed their innings to perfection; with the top-three in their order producing season-high scores.
Opener Matthew Hague (82) continued his consistent form, making his third half-century for the season, while Brodie Herkess (26) provided valuable assistance at the top of the order. And Jake Hancock (109) showed his undoubted class, grinding the Lions into the turf with a brilliantly-rated century.
Hancock and Hague relished the return to two-day cricket, pushing the Bears to the brink of victory with a mighty partnership that was as hot as the mercury levels on the day.
Hancock has mixed his form this season, with scores of 4, 50 and 1 leading into Saturday’s match-winning innings, but now has a very-firm base to build on.
derstand we haven’t played Buckley Ridges or Springvale South because of the wet weather early in the season,” Brannon said.
“We feel like we belong, we feel like we compete with everyone, but we know we have to get better, because our next opponent, Buckley Ridges, is a team that has performed well for many years.
“We know they’ve got good players, but so do we, and if they make a mistake and we capitalise on them; we’re right in the game.
“We look forward to this weekend, because won Turf 2 so we could get into Turf 1 and take on the powerhouse clubs.
“We’ll go in with a positive attitude and see where that takes us.
“If we’ve got 200 on the board, we’re a chance, because we’re bowling well and creating chances.
“We just need to hold those chances.”
Beaconsfield, meanwhile, will need to begin converting starts into meaningful scores, or its slide down the ladder will continue.
The Tigers have now had 17 innings of 20 or better this season, with Pradeep (79 and 53) and Taniwal (51) the only players to kick on to a half century.
Their batting stocks will be tested on an away trip to Springvale South this week, before a home game against Narre South rounds out its 2024 campaign.
Kulasekara and the Bulls will look to make it three wins on the trot when they host the Bucks at Greaves Reserve.
The Bears face top-of-the-table Hallam Kalora Park and fourth-placed Dandenong West in the run-home to Christmas and will need their number-three firing throughout December.
Michael Wallace (21 not out) and Jarryd Wills (12 not out) rounded out a great day for the Bears, with both continuing their trend of making double figures in all five visits to the crease this season.
Zac Wilson (2/56) was the clear top pick for the Lions, claiming the wickets of Herkess and Hancock in 16 overs of hard toil.
All is not lost for the Lions, who will look to break a two-game losing streak against bottom-placed North Dandenong over the next fortnight, before a pre-Chrissy visit to Beaconsfield.
TURF 1 SUMMARY
ROUND 7 RESULTS
North Dandenong 160 and 1/19 def by Hallam Kalora Park 9d/279. Beaconsfield 201 def by Dandenong West 226. Berwick 3/269 def Narre South 265. Buckley Ridges 269 def by Springvale South 3/277.
LADDER
Hallam Kalora Park 30, Buckley Ridges 30, Springvale South 24, Dandenong West 24/ Beaconsfield 18, Berwick 18, Narre South 12, North Dandenong 12.
FIXTURE – R8
Hallam Kalora Park (1) v Berwick (6) Narre South (7) v North Dandenong (8) Dandenong West (4) v Buckley Ridges (2) Springvale South (3) v Beaconsfield (5)
By Jonty Ralphsmith
NarreNorthFoxesjuniorNoahMrazwasselectedatpick 35 by Hawthorn in the 2024 AFL National Draft.
The athletic key defender missed most of the year with a navicular injury sustained in preseason, but showed his ability to defend and intercept as a bottom-aged player.
Mraz averaged 11 disposals and three marks in his
12 CTL games in 2023, but his clearest strength was his ability to not get outmarked and win one-on-ones.
His ruthlessness pushed him to work harder than anyone off-field in 2024 is shown on-field when he’s given the opportunity to lockdown.
“I love playing teams who have a good forward and seeing my name next to them,” Mraz said ahead of the draft
“My favourite part about being a defender is getting a matchup and beating them.
“Ilovethatcompetitivepartofit,thinking‘you’renot going to touch the footy’.”
In 2024, he has put size on his frame and grown to 198cm, while his strong character was another component in the Stingray’s appeal.
Despite his injury, Mraz was still the fourth tall defender selected in the AFL Draft, and will join a young and exciting Hawks lineup.
Having delisted
By Jonty Ralphsmith
Southern Football Netball League Division 2 side Endeavour Hills has welcomed Josiah Kyle for the 2025 season.
Kyle is a former St Kilda-listed AFL footballer who was a Category B rookie in 2022, and has since played for Doveton, Hallam, Berwick and Devon Meadows.
Kyle’s girlfriend plays in the Falcons’ women’s team, with coach Matt Peake impressed with what he has added in the early stages of preseason.
”He’s been around the club for a little bit so we’ve had ongoing conversations and gone from there,” coach Matt Peake said.
“Healreadylooksgoodonthetrackandwestarted training only last week.
“He’s already adding leadership - he doesn’t mind talking and reiterating what I’m talking about.”
A small forward with raw pace and x-factor, he addresses a clear list need for the club.
Having competed consistently with the top five in 2024, Endeavour Hills was often let down by its inability to pile on the goals.
The Falcons scored the second fewest points of any team in Division 2, scoring more than 12 goals in just one game in 2024.
As well as Kyle, the Falcons will regain 2023 premiership player Sam McLean and goal kicking mid Baron Grant.
“Scoring was a big glaring issue with us this year – when we had momentum, we weren’t able to make teams pay,” Peake said. “We played good footy and held up well defensively but couldn’t make it count.
“That’s an area we want to remedy this season and Josiah is a goal kicker with class in the forward half.
“Sam McLean is really good forward of the ball, one on one and hits the scoreboard too.
“They’ll help us put a score on the board.
“There’safewthingswe’llbetrainingoverpreseason. We got a lot of the ball forward throughout the year, we just relied too much on too few.
“I think what the forward line could potentially look like will be exciting. We’ll be more dangerous have more attacking weapons.”
By David Nagel
A ruthless display of power-hitting from Springvale South (3/277) superstar Jordan Wyatt (102 not out) has propelled the Bloods to a thumping seven-wicket victory over previously undefeated reigning-premier Buckley Ridges (269) on Saturday.
The tight confines of Park Oval were no match for Wyatt who smashed eight boundaries and an equal number of maximums in a 59-ball innings for the ages.
An undefeated 151-run stand between Wyatt and Blade Baxter (53 not out) guided the Bloods to victory, after the Bucks briefly fought their way back into the contest on day two.
Resuming at 0/52, with Mitchell Forsyth and Cam Scott both on 23 not out, the Bloods made a solid start before Ishan Jayarathna (1/38) made the initial breakthrough for the Bucks; trapping Scott in front of his stumps for a well-made 33.
Skipper Cam Forsyth (22) joined his brother at the crease, and had the Bloods in cruise-control at 1/120.
But battles between the Bloods and the Bucks never entirely fizzle out; and the reigning champs had two more bullets to fire.
The Bucks claimed two wickets for six runs; with Cam Forsyth falling to Hussain Ali (1/73) and Mitch (56) to Waqar Ali (1/36), with Wyatt and Baxter now both fresh at the crease.
But the Bucks’ talk of a comeback soon petered out, with Wyatt showcasing his mesmerising talents with 16 hits into or over the boundary.
Baxter was no slouch himself, whacking nine fours and a six in his 64-ball vigil while enjoying
Springvale South star Jordan Wyatt reacquainted himself with Buckley Ridges in fine fashion on Saturday; punching an unbeaten century from 59 balls. (Rob Carew: 324303)
the very best seat in the house.
Wyatt now leads the way in the Turf 1 competition this season, with scores of 42, 17, 79 and 33 precursors to Saturday’s unbeaten century.
Opener Mitch Forsyth has also been impressive this season, with his weekend 56 adding to previous half-centuries of 62 not out and 74.
This was an impressive response from the Bloods, who took on the reigning champs down on form after back-to-back losses to Narre South and Hallam Kalora Park.
And only a brave tipster would pick against thempriortoChristmas,withahomegameagainst Beaconsfield followed by a visit to Lois Twohig Reserve to take on bottom-placed North Dandy.
As we all thought; it was way too early to write off the mighty Bloods just yet!
By David Nagel
DDCA Turf 1 cricket has a new ladder-leader to heap praise on and admire after Hallam Kalora Park (9/279dec) made mince-meat of North Dandenong’s (160 and 1/19) promising run-chase at Lois Twohig Reserve.
Resuming on 1/21, the Maroons were simply outclassed by a Hawks’ outfit that has now claimed four victories on the trot.
Jordan Hammond and his Hawks were outplayed by Buckley Ridges in the opening game of the season, but have since rolled Beaconsfield, Dandenong West, Springvale South and North Dandy to claw their way to the top.
The hero on Saturday was Lee Brown (6/26), who claimed competition best figures on Saturday to pilot the Hawks to victory.
Brown, whose 12 overs included four maidens, bowled wonderfully in tandem with Hammond (0/22); who bowled seven maidens from his 13 completed overs.
It was Brown’s second influential bowling stint this season after taking 4/16 against Beaconsfield in round four.
The bottom-placed Maroons simply had no answers, but will need to find some in a hurry with a visit to Narre South looming large on the horizon this week.
It’s too early to call a ‘relegation battle’ in Turf 1 cricket this season, but a win over the next fortnight will take some real pressure off the victors.
Opener Syed Mehmood (71 not out) carried his bat for the Maroons, while Tahsinullah Sultani (48) also threatened with a fine knock at second drop.
The Maroons have now lost the cushion of batting for 45 overs, with the longer format of the game presenting a real challenge for a list lacking real depth.
By Jonty Ralphsmith
Berwick Springs had a significant win on Saturday to headline the Dandenong District Cricket Association Turf 3 round seven action.
The Titans chased down Narre North’s 7/284 in a statement of their improved batting spread.
With star batter Jackson Marie missing, the Titans have needed to find runs in recent weeks from other sources, with Archit Vora standing up with a calm century on Saturday.
“It was the best I’ve seen him bat,” captain Braydon Hillman said.
“It was tough, he was crook and he was on, so just needed someone to stay with him.
“Once he got past 60 overs, it was his time to go after the bowlers.”
After winning just one of its first five games, Berwick Springs has sneaked home in its last two fixtures with the three wicket win over Narre North coming after a five-run win over Hampton Park.
The Titans have retained a squad similar to that which reached the grand final last season, which inflated expectations going in to 2024-25. Hillman is confident his side is ready to rediscover its best cricket.
“The instruction is to bat the 80 or 45 and I encourage the boys to play their way and we’ve manipulated the batting order with myself at three to add a steady presence there,” the skipper revealed.
“We’ve backed our bats in so far and everyone has gotten a score which is good.
“We’re confident when we all click, we’ll go quite well so we just have to get that to happen.
“It’s definitely confidence-boosting chasing 280.
“We had a few chances to do that last year and couldn’t do it and now we know we can do it, so if
it all clicks, no score is unreachable.
“We spoke at the end of last year about sharing the load a bit more and three boys stepped up on the weekend and Jack (Marie) which gives us some belief we’re on the right track.”
The win has put the Titans equal on points with fourth-placed Lynbrook, with the race for fi-
By Jonty Ralphsmith
A pair of Gippslanders and pair of Dandenong Stingrays have been selected across the 2025 AFL and AFLW National Academies.
Potential 2025 top selection Willem Duursma and courageous marking forward Noah Hibbins-Hargreaves were both named in the boys Academy.
Duursma’s siblings Xavier, Yasmin and Zane are all in the AFL/W system and he hails from a basketball background, impressing with his read of the play and skill execution this year.
Hibbins-Hargreaves ability to stand up with the game on the line and make good decisions in the front half made him a valuable asset for Dandenong.
Both players also represented Vic Country as bottom-aged players in 2024, underlining their talent.
Stingray Mizuki Brothwell and Gippsland’s Ella Stoddart were named in the AFLW Academy. Brothwell’s rise alongside twin sister Nalu has been rapid this season with Mizuki a halfback
who takes the game on.
Stoddart is a similar type of player, averaging 18 disposals in 2024.
The Marsh AFL National Academy is a holistic program that combines football and personal development.
The program provides the next generation of stars with valuable experiences, insights and opportunities in their Draft year which will best prepare them for the next steps in their football journey.
The Marsh AFL National Academy program is designed to ensure players are presented with unique opportunities and learnings that differ from other football programs they are involved in.
Content is delivered across three camps, commencing with a high-performance camp that will be held in Melbourne during December. The boys camp will be conducted from December 4-6, with the girls camp to follow from December 9-11.
Two additional camps will be held during the 2025 season which will involve talent showcase matches where the Academy squads will represent their country as part of the Australia U18 team.
Though, the Titans have almost stumbled against Hampton Park and Narre North in recent weeks – teams they must account for to avoid missing out.
Teams will know, though, that once they find momentum, they will be hard to stop, which will heat up the race for finals, highlighting the importance of Keysborough and Silverton’s outright wins to ensconce themselves in the top four.
Half centuries to Chanaka Kahandawala, Shanaka Perumpuli, Anant Singh and Hennadige Fernando lifted Keysborough to 5/278 in response to Doveton’s 74, before the Doves were again bowled out for 158.
Christo Otto and James Moore took three wickets each in the second innings after James Wright’s 5/29 did the damage in the first innings for the Knights.
At Robert Booth Reserve, Anmol Zakhmi scored a lightning 157 and was well supported by fellow opener Harsha Dampahalage as Silverton took the game away from Hampton Park.
After bowling the Redbacks out for 93 in the first innings, the Bakers declared at 2/299, with Harkanwal Singh and Varinder Virk leading the attack in the second innings.
Hampton Park showed some resistance, led by skipper Ranees Khaleel’s 71, but the total score of 203 wasn’t enough to avoid an outright result.
At Lynbrook, skipper Karan Singh’s 91 helped Fountain Gate chase down the Lakers’ 154 comfortably in a match between two top four aspirants.
nals set to come down to the following five teams: Silverton, Keysborough, Fountain Gate, Lynbrook and Berwick Springs.
Two of the Titans’ early losses have been against those sides, which instils hope that the middling ladder position is attributable to a tough start to the season.
Attacking fast bowling pair Jesse Wali and Jatinder Singh did their best to inspire Lynbrook, but weren’t given enough runs to work with.
Fountain Gate declared with a lead of 88 and 35 overs remaining in the day, to have a crack at an unlikely outright win, but Lynbrook’s top three was able to see the Gators’ attack off.
By David Nagel
The picnic racing season at the leafy Woolamai racecourse kicks off this Saturday 30 November with a six-race card set to get the ball rolling.
The club is looking forward to hosting its usual six meetings over the summer period with a highlight being back-to-back Saturday meetings on December 21 and 28 across the Christmas period.
Committee member Peter McCluskey said the club is excited to be back up and running through the summer months
“Bookings for groups are looking very healthy and we want to encourage groups to get together for their Christmas celebrations at our track,” McCluskey said.
“We have plenty of shade, plenty of oncourse action and tables available for bookings and plenty of space for groups to set up their own picnic spots.
“The old toilet block, which sat at right angles to the straight, has been demolished and replaced by a modern unit set back further which opens up more space for patrons.”
A six-race card is planned for most meetings this summer, starting around 1pm with gates opening at 11am.
Bookings can be made via the club website: woolamairaces.com.au
Alternatively, simply roll up to the course on race days, which is 4km east from the sign-posted Bass turnoff on the Bass Highway.
“The home straight looks in prime condition with grass at a very consistent racing length thanks to our hard working track manager Macca Mathieson,” McCluskey added.
“He does a great job, mixing it in with a variety of farming responsibilities around the district.”
By David Nagel
Cranbourne trainer Michael Kent Jnr continued a rich family heritage on Saturday when he co-trained Globe to victory in the $500,000 Ladbrokes Cranbourne Cup (1600m).
Kent Jnr was trackside celebrating his birthday in 2010 when his father Michael Kent trained Starmon to victory under gun-jockey Glen Boss.
But it was ‘Juniors’ turn to shine on the weekend, with Globe giving co-trainer Mick Price his third victory in the cup in the last 11 years.
Price, now at Cranbourne but then training at Caulfield, prepared Pakal (2013) and Octabello (2018) to previous cup triumphs.
Despite being a Cranbourne local for a large part of his life, Kent Jnr had to overcome a hometown jinx to take a grip on the prize.
Globe dictated terms from the early stages of the race, defeating fellow on-pacers Air Assault and Dashing in the run home for glory.
Globe’s win capped off a great day for jockey Ethan Brown, who claimed a treble on the 10race card; including the feature double after early piloting Nadal to victory in the inaugural running of the $1million The Meteorite (1200m).
Kent Jnr was thrilled with the win post-race.
“It’s fantastic for the owners because we took a big punt on this race,” he explained.
“He’s a 17-hand horse getting around Cranbourne where I have my worst strike rate, and I thought, greed is good for a $500,000 race…what do you do?”
Globe is a lightly-raced six-year-old gelding, who exploded onto the scene early last year, winning his first four outings in very impressive fashion.
He won back-to-back races at Pakenham, then was given a light freshen up before streeting his rivals in consecutive meetings at Sandown.
After his first-four starts, Globe had a perfect winning record by a combined margin of 14 lengths!
But injuries have since taken their toll, with Price and Kent Jnr finally getting him back to full fitness this preparation.
He finished fourth in the Group-3 Moonga Stakes (1400m) at Caulfield, and then put a flashing light beside his name with a second to Light Infantry Man in the Listed Chester Manifold Stakes (1600m) at Flemington on Oaks Day.
Price and Kent Jnr left no stone unturned in preparation for the cup, bringing Globe to Cranbourne on Tuesday morning to help settle his nerves for cup day.
”I think bringing him here on Tuesday was a good idea because he is a high nervous energy horse and he did belt out a bit of energy on Tuesday morning…but the kid (Ethan) did a good job on him,” Kent Jnr said.
“It’s not that hot today; I know it’s hot, but it’s not hot where the horses are really stressed.
“I thought the kid did a good job with him out the back and they hosed him and kept him cool.
“The horse was in good nervous order; his wheels weren’t fizzing around his head, which
they can.
“I think the more racing he does, the better he’ll be.”
Brown said he could sense that Globe had improved from his rock-solid run in the Chester Manifold.
“In his work the other day, I felt he’d improved,” he said.
“I was just right there when he dealt with things today.
“It was a hot day, which could have easily brought him undone, but he was in the right hands and he kept his cool.
“We established such a beautiful lead. He pricked his ears. I knew I was on a fit horse to have it up the tempo a long way out and try and
break them, and that’s what happened.
“He’ll improve again out of this run.
“I’m confident he’ll get back to where they thought he was heading before he got injured.”
Globe’s victory made it four cups in a row for local trainers; following in the footsteps of King Magnus (2021), Uncle Bryn (2022) and Charterhouse (2023).
Globe defeated Air Assault by a half-length on the line, with the gallant Dashing a length further back in third place.
Damian Lane was the only other jockey to taste multiple successes on the program, piloting Savoir Fair to victory for Mark Walker in race seven, before finishing off the card with a hardfought win aboard Kevin Daffy’s exciting five-
year-old mare Oh Too Good.
Oh Too Good, trained at Pakenham, started a red-hot $1.40 favourite but forced to dig deep to hold off the Ciaron Maher-trained Igotcha. Christine Daffy, the wife of Kevin, said Oh Too Good was a potential starter on Pakenham Cup Day on Saturday 21 December.
“That’d be lovely if we could be there for a race on Pakenham Cup Day,” Christine highlighted.
“That’d be very special because that’s our home track and that one’s a very special track to us.”
Oh Too Good has now had four wins and three seconds from his seven career starts since winning his debut run at Pakenham in early February this year.
On a very hot day that threatened to be cancelled due to the heat policy the Narre Warren Bowls Club Division 1 side travelled to Cheltenham knowing that a good result would put them in the top four.
Unfortunately after a very close game it was not Narre Warren’s day, going down to a classy Cheltenham team 73-79.
The second team also travelled to Cheltenham and, after last week’s win, were hoping to make it two in a row.
The game was played in very trying conditions and was a stop-start game due to umpire decisions on the heat.
Narre Warren eventually came away with a very good win away from home, 82-74.
The third team started early, trying to get the game in before it got too hot, and travelled to Premier League club Clayton.
They also had a very stop-start game due to the heat.
In a very close game, with very little in it all day, Clayton got the better of Narre Warren with a final score of 80-82.
Narre Warren’s fourth side got to play this week at the Panther Dome and came up against a very strong team from Parkdale.
In another very close game Narre Warren was able to win two rinks but unfortunately Parkdale was too strong on the day, winning 82-85.
Narre 5 travelled to top-of-the-table Pakenham on Saturday expecting a very hard game and that is what Pakenham delivered.
It was not a great day for Narre Warren who was outclassed on all rinks going down 64-93.
Narre 6 also played under the Panther Dome on Saturday and this week had two players playing their first game of bowls.
They were Heather George and Samantha Cole-Surjan, with both players having good games and walking off with smiles on their faces.
The team played our friends from Upwey Tecoma and NWBC had a very close win, 86-83.
The Ferguson Plarre rink of the day award goes to: Karen Anderton; Gillian Wright; Robert Dalzell and David Stevens at +11.
This week Narre Warren has three players playing in the Sandbelt region finals.
Dean George is playing in the Men’s Novice Final and Wilma Stevenson and Judy Naughton are playing in the Ladies Pairs final.
Both these games are being played Friday night at Burden Park BC.
SATURDAY PENNANT – ROUND 6
•Side 1: (Away) lost to Cheltenham 73-79
Points: 3. Ladder: 6th
Best rink: Ryan Tebble; Craig Lineham; Colin Groom and Josh McQueen +9
•Side 2: (Away) defeated Cheltenham 82-74
Points: 14. Ladder: 4th
Best rink: Michael Graham; Michael Black; John Pentreath and Dennis Paul +10
•Side 3: (Away) lost to Clayton 80-82
Points: 4. Ladder: 4th
Best rink: Pauline Kempf; Ray Aylen; Russell Keay and Greg Davies +7
•Side 4: (Home) lost to Parkdale 82-85
Points: 4. Ladder: 5th
Best rink: Donna Wood; Robert Beare; David Inifer and Geoff Miller +11
•Side 5: (Away) lost to Pakenham 64-93
Points: 0. Ladder: 6th
•Side 6: (Home) defeated Upwey Tecoma 86-83
Points: 14. Ladder: 3rd
Best rink: Karen Anderton; Gillian Wright; Robert Dalzell and David Stevens +11
RINK OF THE ROUND:
Side 6: Skip D. Stephens: +11 (Div 7 S/E Sect 6)
MIDWEEK PENNANT – ROUND 5
•Side 1: (Home) defeated Moorabbin 60-59
Points: 12. Ladder: 2nd
Best rink: Phil Howard; Craig Lineham; Eric Sydenham and Tim Gray: +10
•Side 2: (Away) defeated Mulgrave CC 67-40
Points: 16. Ladder: 1st
Best rink: Ana Mateos; Dean George; Fernando Mateos and Darren Thompson: +14
•Side 3: (Home) defeated Sandringham 66-60
Points: 14. Ladder: 4th
Best rink: Peter Groom; Pauline Kempf; Andy Tobler and Denise Ferguson: +10
•Side 4: (Home) lost to Mulgrave CC 52-59
Points: 2. Ladder: 2nd
Best rink: Robert Dalzell; Michael Nelson; Judith Naughton and Peter Wilson: +6
RINK OF THE ROUND:
Side 2: Skip D. Thompson +14 (Div 2 Sec 8) -Craig Moore-
