News - Berwick Star News - 12th December 2024

Path to success

on Friday 6 December.

Starting around August last year, the eight-week program provides evidence-based and culturally informed drug and alcohol education and harmonisation strategies to communities from African backgrounds.

The sessions run both in-person and online in psychosocial groups with different topics for each week.

Board chair Ella Rose said at the celebration ceremony that the past year had been particularly very transformative for the organisation. Story page 16

African dance performance at community organisation Nas Recovery Centre’s Path2Home end-of-year celebration. (Stewart Chambers: 448546)

Call incoming

By Ethan Benedicto

After years of suffering from the lack of proper mobile connection, Clyde and Clyde North have seen two tower instalments this year alone, with more in the books for both 2025 and 2026. The new tower at 36 Bells Road in Clyde signi-

fies the second major step in upgrading the area’s capabilities to connect, providing that muchneeded accessibility not just for the local residents, but also for small businesses operating in the area.

There have been many instances throughout the year where insufficient mobile coverage was

of great concern, with many residents citing the feasibility of contacting emergency services, to management from the neighbouring Balla Balla Community Centre calling it a modern-day need.

Local MPs have been on the advocacy trail for some time, with Southeastern Metropolitan MP Michael Galea and Holt MP Cassandra Fer-

nando active throughout the year campaigning for changes.

The Peri-Urban Mobile Project, called PUMP, was also announced earlier in October, with the most recent tower part of that initiative to cater to the growing fringes of the City of Casey.

Story page 4

A Christmas message from the Mayor Cr. Stefan Koomen

As we approach the end of the year and the holiday season, I want to wish everyone a happy and safe festive season. This time of year, reminds me of the values I hold dear: family, community, and connection.

For some, the holidays can be difficult. If you can, consider spreading kindness to those who may be struggling — whether through a kind word, a meal, or simply offering support, these small gestures can make a big difference, and they go a long way to strengthening our community bonds.

There are many local Christmas celebrations across our beautiful City, and I encourage all residents to embrace this time of year, be involved and enjoy the Christmas festivities.

Next year, I look forward to working with the community and Council but until then, from my family to yours, have a wonderful and safe Christmas.

To be held from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, attendees will be treated to a day filled with fun, free activities for all ages, including the opportunity for a meet and greet with the Melbourne Stars playing squad and signing and selfie sessions.

There will also be a range of food trucks to keep you fueled throughout the day.

For your chance to win a team signed Stars playing shirt, scan the QR code and register for the Family Day.

Customer Service Christmas/ New Year opening hours

Our Customer Service Counters will close at midday on Tuesday 24 December and will reopen on Thursday 2 January.

Our call centre will also close at midday on Tuesday 24 December and will reopen on Friday 27 December, Monday 30 December and Tuesday 31 December between 9:00 am and 4:00 pm.

If you require any assistance after hours, please call 9705 5200.

Summer Stage returns to the Bunjil Place Plaza from Saturday 11 January to Friday 21 February.

Whether you’re looking to kick back with friends or dive into something new, there’s a wonderful mix of events for all ages, including Sunday Sessions, DJ workshops, and comedy shows.

Families can delight in performances from Emma Memma, The Beanies, and Whistle and Trick, plus circus skills workshops, pop-up playgroups, and the Kids Day Out.

For your chance to win a $300 Summer Stage Summer Pass, visit the Bunjil Place website or scan the QR Code.

Heat safety

With heat waves becoming a regular feature of the Victorian summer, it’s important to plan and consider how you can look after yourself and others when the extreme heat hits.

Schedule activities in the coolest part of the day and avoid exercising. If you must go out, wear a hat and sunscreen and take a bottle of water with you.

For more information, visit our website or scan the QR code.

Cricket fans are invited to attend the Melbourne Stars Family Day at Casey Fields on Sunday 5 January.

Deputy Mayor Cr Melinda Ambros and Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen at the lighting of the Christmas tree at Bunjil Place.

NEWS Doveton Pool fully funded

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

The once-doomed Doveton Pool in the Park’s future is seemingly assured, with the Federal Government splashing nearly $7.5 million towards its upgrade.

The Thriving Suburbs Program grant means the $14.7 million revitalization appears to be fully funded.

It will enable stages 2 and 3 including a possible beach sand pit, plaza, canopy tree planting, upgraded splash pad, playground, outdoor fitness equipment, barbecue, toilets and upgraded pool building.

There’s also expressed hope of adding a shallow, child-accessible pool to the plans.

Earlier this year, Casey Council fully funded the $7.91 million stage-1 to rebuild the outdoor 50-metre pool and splash pad facilities only and shut down the slides and toddler pools.

At the time, then-administration chair Noelene Duff challenged state and federal governments to “put your money where your mouth is” in order to fund the remaining stages.

In 2021, Casey Council were set to shut down the pool but a fierce community campaign to ‘Save Doveton Pool’ forced a reversal.

Bruce federal MP Julian Hill, who had strongly opposed the demolition, celebrated the project’s revival.

“I’m absolutely delighted and proud that through a proper, transparent process that the Federal Government has committed $7.5 million in funding.

“The era of Liberal rorts and waste is over, and it’s a good thing for Australia and our community that funds now flow to the most deserving of projects.”

Casey mayor Stefan Koomen had also actively campaigned for the facility, including retaining a childrens pool, during the recent council election campaign.

“It’s a huge outcome,” Koomen said of the federal grant.

“The funding is there to complete all of the upgrades and make the pool a destination for families.

“As a Doveton resident myself, I’ve been advocating for years to secure the support this facility deserves.”

He thanked Hill for leading the charge to save the pool.

“We didn’t have councillors at the time, and it was he who led this as a local representative.”

This summer, the shallow pools and slides are

shut due to large maintenance and repair costs, he said.

Koomen said it was a “priority” to include a child-friendly pool in stages 2 and 3.

“I’ll be looking at ways to incorporate that into the masterplan. I’ll have more to say about the next steps in the new year.”

From March, stage-1 works will begin on the 50-metre pool.

It’s expected to include environmentally sustainable design features, such as energy capture and recovery, more efficient electric services, and water use and capture systems.

The deep end of the pool – formerly used for

New $9.2m amenities for Clyde North

By Ethan Benedicto

As the area continues to develop, Clyde North has received another boon to its future Springleaf Avenue Recreation Reserve following a $9.2 million fund from the State Government.

On Thursday 5 December, the federal government announced over $129 million for 26 projects in the city and surrounding suburbs, with the Doveton Pool in the Park Revitalisation Project also receiving $7.4 million for its second and third stages.

Known as the Thriving Suburbs Program, infrastructure, transport, regional development and local government minister Catherine King said that it’s “all about building better cities”.

Thisproject,titledtheSpringleafActiveOpen Space Development, will see the greenfield site transformed into a multi-purpose sporting, recreation and green space facility complete with accessible fit-for-purpose amenities.

This will include two AFL and cricket ovals, two netball courts, cricket nets, a community

pavilion, walking paths, landscaping, public art and a playground.

Senator Jess Walsh added that projects to “uplift our cities and suburbs are needed now more than ever”.

“I am pleased to see the Australian government is providing this funding for our community.

“I’m thrilled to see this funding flowing to a range of local priorities, like Springleaf Active Open Space Development to take them off the drawing board and make them come to life,” she said.

The large open space, situated adjacent to Springleaf Avenue in Clyde North is also surrounded by one of the fastest-growing estates in the suburb, with Berwick Springs Estate looking to home a future town centre, and in close proximity to a number of schools.

Clyde North itself, according to the most recent 2021 Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) census, is home to approximately 25,339 resi-

dents, with 10,537 of these people living in the northern end of the suburb.

Working ages between 15 to 64 also make up the majority of the northern end of the suburb, with 65.4 per cent of the population.

The City of Casey’s mayor, Stefan Koomen said that on behalf of the city, “I would like to thank the Federal Government for supporting our community”.

“It’s fantastic to partner with all levels of government to deliver these amazing facilities and better outcomes for our residents,” he said.

It was also announced in October this year, though not under the State Government, that the Raleigh Springs Village shopping centre has been approved and is expected to open by early 2026, with major retailers such as ALDI and Woolworths alongside cafes, medical facilities and other amenities to be present.

diving – would be made more shallow, and hence more heating-efficient.

For the past two summers, Doveton’s outdoor pools have opened on days 25 degrees Celsius and hotter – a concession from the previous 30-degree temperature trigger.

However, attendances were down. In 43 days of operation in 23-’24, there were 5836 visitations – thought to be due to the lack of extreme heat days.

The Doveton Pool was developed in 1968 after a long campaign of community fundraising in response to drownings in Eumemmerring Creek.

Koomen said the upgrade showed a “real commitment” to supporting all parts of Casey including Doveton.

“The Doveton community truly deserves this investment.

“The pool is more than just an asset — it’s a beloved gathering point for residents, and this funding will ensure that locals and visitors will continue to enjoy high-quality aquatic facilities right in their neighbourhood.

“Since joining Council and becoming Mayor, one of my key focuses has been to ensure our community facilities—our assets, the places where we spend time with family and friends— are well maintained and continue to thrive.”

On 4 December, Casey Council also scored $9.22 million Thriving Suburbs Program funding for its Springleaf Active Open Space Development in Clyde North.

Infrastructure Minister Catherine King said the program was about increasing “community cohesion, liveability and accessibility” in urban areas.

“Whether sports clubs, urban precincts or community hubs, community facilities are the backbone of connected societies – and they’re becoming increasingly important.”

Doveton resident Margaret Fairhurst, Bruce MP Julian Hill, Casey mayor Stefan Koomen and daughter Frankie, Doveton Show committee member Claire Heffernan and Doveton Eumemmerring Township Association member Sean Balfour.

The view from Pattersons Road in Clyde North, where hundreds of homes dot the wide landscape. (Stewart Chambers: 329131)

Clyde welcomes new tower

By Ethan Benedicto

The suburbs of Clyde and Clyde North have welcomed Christmas early after the installation of yet another cell tower.

Marking the second instalment of the year, the tower at 36 Bells Road in Clyde is a muchwelcome addition for the residents of the suburb and surrounding area after the notoriety for unreliable mobile connection has grown over the years.

The minister for government services, Gabrielle Williams, announced on Thursday 5 December, the completion of the tower, which improves TPG and Optus coverage for over 8000 premises and delivers an 18-kilometre-squared upgraded outdoor 4g and 5g coverage.

“We know the communities of Clyde and Clyde North have struggled with poor coverage in the area for some time - by supporting these new towers we are providing residents and businesses with better connectivity,” Williams said.

Prior to this, the State Government has also backed the construction of two Telstra mobile towers in the area, one in Ramlegh Reserve in Clyde North and another in Berwick Springs in Narre Warren South, both of which began transmitting in July.

General manager of wireless access for TPG Telecom, David Yeo, said that they are proud to be part of the Connecting Victoria program and “helping to boost mobile connectivity for homes and businesses across the state”.

“Initiatives like these are a big step forward in

making sure our communities have reliable and high-quality mobile coverage to support their work, school and entertainment needs,” he said.

Likewise, Optus local general manager of Victoria, Jayson Grool, said that they are “delighted to play a key role in the Connecting Victoria Program”.

“Unlocking greater opportunities for Victorians and enhancing connectivity for communities across the state.

“We’re committed to delivering reliable, high-quality network coverage that empowers Australians to thrive in every aspect of their daily lives,” Grool said.

Telstra regional manager for Eastern Victoria, Jenny Gray, said that these new towers are a “great example of what carriers like Telstra and the Victorian government can achieve by working together to bring new connectivity to regional locations”.

The Clyde North tower and the Narre Warren South tower provide roughly 7.6 square kilometres of combined outdoor 4g and 5g mobile coverage across more than 6700 premises.

This new tower provides much-needed support for local businesses such as Alana Taylor Photography, who previously only took enquiries and bookings via email due to the unreliability of mobile connection.

Alana, who previously had not been able to communicate with customers through the phone, said that “the poor mobile coverage has been a significant challenge”.

“Until now I’ve taken enquiries and book-

ings via email only because the mobile coverage has been too unreliable to do it by phone, but for my clients - many of whom are new parents who need quick and easy communication - that hasn’t been ideal.

“Better mobile coverage will not only streamline how I run my business and improve client satisfaction, it’ll also make life easier for everyone in this community,” she said.

Southeastern metropolitan MP, Michael Galea was present during the previous instalment of the Clyde North tower, and has been a vocal advocate for more coverage in parliamentary discussions.

“I know firsthand how frustrating the lack of mobile reception in Clyde North is,” he said.

“That’s why I’m so pleased the government has stepped in to deliver these much-needed towers after a decade of neglect.”

Through the Connecting Victoria program, around 153 eligible premises in Clyde now have access to high-capacity fibre technology, which, under the same campaign, also funded nine mobile projects in Clyde and Clyde North with Telstra, Optus and TPG.

Clyde has welcomed its newest tower just before Christmas, as the eastern fringe of Casey slowly builds its mobile connectivity. (Supplied)

Casey Council votes to change meeting times to 6pm

By Violet Li

Casey Council has moved the council meeting time from 4pm to 6pm for 2025.

At the December Council Meeting, a motion was passed to move the start time.

Council officers originally put forward a motion to move the start time to 5.30pm, but the recommendation was lost with a vote of three versus nine.

Councillor Michelle Crowther proposed an alternative motion for the commencement time of meetings to be 6pm, and Cr Lynette Pereira seconded the motion.

The motion was carried with a vote of 10 versus two.

Cr Crowther said the Casey community had demanded transparency and accessibility to the council meetings.

“Under our governance rules, public questions will only be answered publicly if the questioner is in attendance in the gallery. The current 4pm time and proposed 5.30pm does not allow accessibility for our community to participate in the council process,” she said.

“We have a very large municipality and we must allow time for our community to travel to

Bunjil Place outside of work hours and participate in the council process.

“I feel the 6pm meeting time would increase the opportunity for more residents to attend and have their questions answered publicly.”

Cr Kim Ross was among the two who did not favour the new motion. She said people made decisions best earlier in the day.

“For me having an earlier time is better than a later time,” she said.

“And I recognise that a lot of the community

can’t get here until later, but there’s also a fair part of the community that later doesn’t suit either. For example, parents with young children who are trying to get their kids settled, people who rely on public transport, so that’s why I’m in favour of an earlier time rather than a later one.”

She also said that the council meeting was only one forum for residents.

“It’s really important that we do offer other opportunities and other days to give people the opportunity to put questions and discuss things with councillors and to remind residents that they can always make appointments to talk with their councillors as well.

“This is not the only forum you have.”

Casey Residents and Ratepayer Association (CRRA) talked to Star News last week to call on the City of Casey to change Council meeting times to 6.30pm.

CRRA vice president Anthony Tassone said CCRA believed that the change of Casey Council meeting times to 6pm was a step in the right direction to provide greater opportunities for more residents to attend.

“Following feedback from residents and our members, CRRA previously suggested a meeting time of 6.30pm which would be more in

line with many other council’s meeting times of 7pm including our neighbouring municipalities Frankston, Greater Dandenong, Cardinia, and Knox City councils,” he said.

“Time will tell whether 6pm is the right time for meetings to maximise the opportunity for resident attendance.

“The CRRA believes another matter needing attention for council meetings to increase transparency and engagement with the community is for the City of Casey to return to previous arrangements that did not require submitters of a question for public question time to be physically present in the gallery at the meeting for the question to be read out.

“This is a simple and sensible change that residents would welcome.“

Casey Council meetings historically started at 6.30pm until the council changed the time to 4pm in April 2020.

At a council meeting in December last year, a council officer recommended the time be changed to 5pm for all council meetings scheduled in 2024, following a petition with more than 200 supporters, but then Casey administrator Cameron Boardman moved an alternative motion to change 5pm back to 4pm, which was unanimously voted for.

Casey Council has moved the Council Meeting time from 4pm to 6pm for 2025. (Gary Sissons: 429633)

NEWS Truck fires costing $110k

By Ethan Benedicto

The City of Casey has seen a significant spike in garbage truck fires in the last year due to the improper disposal of lithium-ion batteries and other electronic waste, prompting a contract variation to kerbside collection to include cleanup costs.

Termed ‘hot loads’, contracted company Cleanaway has formally requested Casey to pay for the cleanup after the truck fires, while the company balances it out with tending to their vehicles’ repairs.

River Gum Ward councillor Lynette Pereira, while supporting the variation, had also called for a broader approach to informing residents on proper disposal.

“Battery fires are becoming an increasing problem for the community and proper recycling of batteries is a huge issue,” she said.

“I think there are many people in the community that are still not aware of proper disposal and I’m not sure if council can do something to help disseminate that information.

“I think that would be a good move because it’s going to keep increasing and these battery fires are going to keep happening, it’s just a fact of life.”

The cleanup costs for the financial year of 2023/2024 was $110,767 which accounted for 11 hot loads.

Accepting the contract variation will increase contract costs by $100,000 to $120,000 per annum, where current costs for the 2024/2025 period are liable to be covered under the savings that exist from the Waste Management operating budget.

In the future, the impact will be included in the calculated Waste Charge and will equate to less than one dollar per household, according to the agenda.

“It’s happening all over the country, with all the vapes and all the sorts of things people are disposing of, throwing in the garbage.”

“They don’t realise the impact that that has, even the electric toothbrushes, all these things that have the little lithium batteries in them.”

“I think it would be great if we could spread that information around the community,” Pereira said.

It was in the last 18 months that these hot load cases increased, where historically, truck fires have “not been a significant issue in Casey with only one or two ‘hot loads’ per year”, according to the most recent agenda.

From December 2017 to June 2023, there were approximately 12 incidents, but more recently, Cleanway reported 15 hot loads in the period from June 2023 to October 2024.

One of our best educators

Casey Grammar School’s chaplain, Monique Riviere-Pendle, has made the 2024 Educator Hotlist.

The annual list recognises the country’s most innovative and committed teachers who have significant influence in their classroom and school community.

Each year, schools across the country nominate hundreds of teachers whom they feel have made a real difference in the lives of their students and colleagues.

Monique is one of a handful of teachers from Victoria to be selected for this year’s Hotlist.

“I feel very humbled to see my name on the list. I work with many incredible people at Casey Grammar, and there are many teachers around the country who are very deserving. Being included on the list this year is a surprise to me,” Monique said.

Since first arriving at Casey Grammar in 2017, Monique has had a wide-ranging role.

She coordinates Religious Education and Ethics and supports and encourages teachers in her department to develop and grow their skills.

She coordinates the school’s extensive Social Justice Program, organises fundraising and volunteering initiatives and has built key relationships with local charities.

Monique also leads Commissioning and Chapel services, provides caring pastoral support to students and staff, and, in her role as transition coordinator, supporting students as they move from primary school into their senior school years.

Monique has also been a key figure in spearheading Casey Grammar’s first Reconciliation Action Plan, creating meaningful steps to promote reconciliation within the school community.

“I’m very fortunate that my job has evolved to bring together such a unique combination of different areas in the life of the school. No two days are the same and I love the work I am privileged to do,” Monique said.

“Each day I simply hope to play my part in making Casey Grammar a place where people feel that they belong and where they feel safe and valued.”

Grevillea Ward councillor, Dave Perry, had questioned if the money could be “better spent educating” and not having the issue “in the first place”.

Michael Jansen, Casey’s manager of sustainability and waste, said that both proposed strategies by Perry and Pereira were viable, but highlighted that the reason for the contract variation was due to the recent spike in hot loads.

He said that Cleanaway “couldn’t foresee the cost that it would be impacting on their business”.

“We can quantify the cost it takes to clean up and dispose of the material and we would have had to dispose of the material anyway, that would have been our cost in any case, but the additional

cost is that cleaning up,” he said.

Jansen further added that the council “would only pay where the incident occurs and the receipts and evidence are there”.

“In terms of the education, absolutely, we have increased our focus on that and we have actually put billboards, and as part of an overall education program, which targets batteries and e-waste, in combination with that we have to have disposal opportunities as well,” he said.

Looking ahead, Casey is looking to further bolster proper awareness and education on proper disposal habits, with the variation unanimously agreed on by the council.

Casey Grammar School’s chaplain, Monique Riviere-Pendle, has made the 2024 Educator Hotlist. (Supplied)

Lynette Pereira called for more education and awareness on the proper ways to dispose of electronic waste. (Stewart Chambers: 442764)

Dave Perry, councillor of Grevillea Ward, supported the need for further community education on proper electronic waste disposal. (442141)

Walk against family violence

By Violet Li

Hampton Park Community Groups Network held a day to Walk Against Family Violence on 4 December.

The walk was part of the 16 Days of Activism Campaign, which runs from November 25 to December 10.

Community members, including those from the Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Hampton Park Baptist Church, Hampton Park Community House, and Hampton Park Uniting Place, walked around the block of the local shopping centre to raise awareness of the issue.

Hampton Park Uniting Place community support worker Sam Igoe said the day was about supporting everyone and promoting the message to stop all violence towards anybody and treat people with respect.

“We were carrying banners and posters, and we handed out pamphlet information about the special organisations that people can contact if they’re affected by this issue,” she said.

“It was just the first year of doing this walk, but we’re hoping that it will get bigger each year and raise more awareness.”

Ms Igoe said the network started the event because of the high number of people in the community affected by family violence.

“They’re too afraid to seek help or that people treat them differently,” she said.

“There’s a stigma attached to it. Everyone’s very secretive about it.”

Merry Christmas: Carols are on, but new time and place

By Ethan Benedicto

The usual venue and date for the annual Carols by Twilight at Max Pawesey Reserve has changed to Cairns Road Reserve in Hampton Park, following tight schedules in the Christmas season.

Larry Sebastian from Casey City Church said that the rescheduling to Friday 20 December instead of the usual Christmas Eve celebration came down to availability, as well as having the special eve and day of celebration saved for the families.

“We’ve been trying over the years to try and move the date from the 24th to another date because it’s always been very difficult to get volunteers - it’s too close to Christmas,” Sebastian said.

“Many of the families, they want to celebrate Christmas themselves, with things like midnight mass and celebrating the eve.

“So it’s been very difficult to get even others from other churches to assist, they’ve got their own programs and other things going on.”

Casey City Church approached the City of Casey in July this year to discuss alternative options, with hopes of still hosting it at Max Pawsey Reserve but at an earlier date.

The change of venue marks a significant change from its traditional venue, where part of its novelty had a strong connection to its location.

The new event to be held at Cairns Road Reserve will begin at 4pm and end at 9:30pm.

A Facebook page under the name of Carols by Twilight - Casey stated that efforts from the

group - not Casey City Church - were made to collaborate with other local churches and council members to continue the tradition.

The post also made some clarifications on

the funding of the event, where they stated that the council had been responsible for logistical expenses while volunteers “have always given their time and talent freely out of love for the community”.

However, at that point, Sebastian said that the “date was tied to the venue”, and that other, earlier times, would prove to be difficult considering parking and capacity limitations due to Christmas shopping.

“I think what we’re really excited about is the fact that this provides the volunteers and staff and performers an opportunity to be able to perform earlier and to still have the 24th as a time to spend with their families,” Sebastian said.

“It’s been a bit easier for us to get some of the local performers as well so we’re really excited about this year’s performance.”

The Carols by Twilight has been an ongoing celebration by the local community since its inception in the early 1980s, with the Casey City Church taking the organisational mantle in the last 18 years.

It was initially held in Narre Warren’s parklands, where Bunjil Place currently sits, according to the city’s Casey Collections archives. It has and continues to be heralded as a significant community event, celebrating 40 years in 2015 and after stopping operations during the pandemic, returned once more in 2022.

Thumbs up

To the Santa on the hwy in Tynong. Always brings joy every year to see what has been created.

Thumbs up

To the amazing silent angel at Toyworld Pakenham and Little Munchkins Boutique that gifted locals a fully paid-off lay-buy for Christmas. In tough times like this, it’s truly inspirational.

Thumbs up

To those in our community looking out for others doing it tough especially in the lead up to Christmas. Thumbs down

To those potholes and the lack of transparency in our governments.

Group shot of Walk Against Family Violence. (Supplied)

The Max Pawsey Reserve Carols have since been moved to Cairns Road Reserve in Hampton Park, following scheduling conflicts for Christmas Eve. (On File)

NEWS Indigenous opposition

By Violet Li

A local Boonwurrung culture organisation is opposing the proposed Hampton Park waste transfer station and is urging the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) to reject its Development Licence application.

Hallam Road landfill operator Veolia proposed to build a $27m commercial waste transfer station on the land adjacent to the landfill.

Casey Council approved its planning permits with conditions on Monday 4 November, and Veolia is now seeking a Development Licence application from EPA.

Boonwurrung culture organisation Biik Bundjil submitted its opposition to EPA on 7 December, where it stated its concerns for the cultural, environmental, and community impacts as the Traditional Custodians of the land.

Director Jaeden Williams stated that the proposed waste transfer station risked severe environmental damage to Boonwurrung Country.

“This project introduces significant risks, including leachate contamination, increased pollution, and air quality degradation. It undermines the promise to rehabilitate the regional tip into parkland, a commitment made to the community when the tip was extended,” he said.

“This rehabilitation was more than a practical solution. It symbolised an opportunity to restore balance and respect to the land. The introduction of a waste transfer station dishonours this promise, further compounding the harm done to the Country.

“In Boonwurrung culture, the principle of caring for the Country, nurturing the land, not exploiting it, is fundamental.”

Local communities talked to Star News earlier this year and said they had been promised for years by Casey Council that the landfill would be reverted to a public green park after the rehabilitation.

Mr Williams also pointed out in the submission that there was no proper consultation with the Aboriginal community.

“The land upon which this proposal is planned is part of Boonwurrung Country, unceded and deeply significant to the Traditional Custodians. Boonwurrung Elders and their communities must be central to any discussions about developments of this nature,” he said.

“However, there is no evidence that proper consultation has occurred, a glaring omission that disrespects their custodianship and fails to uphold the principles of truth-telling and reconciliation.

“Developments like waste transfer stations threaten this connection by potentially causing irreparable damage to the environment, which is an intrinsic part of Boonwurrung cultural identity and spirituality.

“To proceed without consulting Elders is to dismiss their enduring wisdom and understanding of how best to care for Country.”

Community organisation Lynbrook Residents Association stated on its Facebook that it stood in solidarity with the Biik Bundjil and the Boonwurrung Traditional Custodians.

“This submission is not just a statement,” it stated.

“It is a profound call for justice, resonating from the Traditional Custodians of this land, who have upheld its care for millennia. It shines a spotlight on the urgent cultural, environmental, and community threats posed by this proposal.”

When contacted, Tania Asper, City of Casey Manager Planning and Building said: “When considering the permit application, council officers established that there was no statutory requirement to prepare a cultural heritage management plan or consult with Traditional Land Owners as part of their assessment.

“We understand that the local community are disappointed at the proposed waste transfer station. Council’s role as the local planning authority is to consider applications in line with relevant State policies, frameworks, and legislation.”

When contacted, a Veolia spokesperson said: “The Hallam Road site, which includes the proposed Hampton Park waste transfer station, was originally a quarry.

“Veolia continues to rehabilitate the severely disturbed site and will maintain our commitment to return it to the community as parkland.

“The proposed transfer station is a vital piece of infrastructure for Victoria’s future waste needs, which will occupy a relatively small area of the existing site.

“Throughout this proposal, Veolia has engaged with the local community and will continue to do so.”

Petition to stop the proposed waste transfer station

By Violet Li

Lynbrook Residents Association is urging residents to sign a parliamentary petition to request the State Government to stop the construction of the proposed Hampton Park waste transfer station.

The petition has been spread both online and on paper.

It requests that the Legislative Council call on the State Government to ensure that the proposed waste transfer station is not constructed by overturning the approval of the planning permit application, rejecting the development licence application, and investigating the processes that have led to the planning permit application being approved by Casey Council.

“The proposed facility is within 250 metres of family homes and in the middle of densely populated areas,” the petition states.

petition to mandate a debate in Parliament and the e-petition requires 10,000 signatures.

“Together, they’ll be counted and presented as one unified effort.

“As a passionate and dedicated community, we firmly believe the 2,000 target is well within reach.”

South-Eastern Metropolitan MP Ann-Marie Hermans is supporting the petition and requesting a three-month extension on the submission period for the waste transfer station’s development licence in a letter to the Environmental Protection Authority.

“It has come to my attention and has been established, that the residents of the local area have not been properly engaged or effectively consulted regarding the hazardous waste management plans,” she said.

“They have concerns about how this facility will impact them and their local residential area, what impact it will have on their local roads, schools and childcare areas, the impact it will have on their water supply, their local environment, and how their health and safety concerns will be adequately addressed and alleviated.”

The petition currently has more than 1000 signatures.

LRA states on Facebook that they are pushing for at least 2,000 signatures on the paper

“Residents of surrounding suburbs have not been properly informed, and those who have are extremely concerned about the serious, adverse environmental and social impacts that will result from processing 550,000 tonnes of putrescible and inert waste per annum.”

The submission period for the development licence application ended on 10 December.

Ms Hermans said there was a sense of desperate urgency for her local constituents to be informed of the hazards and impact of the proposed waste management facility in Hampton Park, and to have their concerns heard and addressed, and at the very least, provided with an extension for submissions.

If you want to sign the petition, visit: parliament.vic.gov.au/get-involved/petitions/stopthe-construction-of-a-waste-transfer-stationin-hampton-park

You can go to local shops The Grind 3975, Pattysmiths Lynbrook, and Flakey Jake’s Lynbrook to access the paper petition. The petition closes on 7 February 2025.

(AAP Image/Luis Enrique Ascui)

Boonwurrung culture organisation Biik Bundjil director Jaeden Williams stated that the proposed waste transfer station risked severe environmental damage to Boonwurrung Country. (Rob Carew: 444783)

THE LOWDOWN

Q&A

Tell us about yourself and what you did before getting elected into the council.

I have always volunteered across different local groups and in recent years served as a local Justice of the Peace. I led the Save Doveton Pool campaign, which inspired me to run for council. Before becoming mayor, I worked for the Parliament of Victoria, helping residents and community groups, and supporting various local MPs.

What has been your most memorable moment during your first month on the council?

Being elected mayor by my fellow councillors. It’s an incredible honour to lead this exciting, new chapter for the City of Casey.

If you were an animal, what animal would you be?

I’d be an elephant; they are such intelligent and gentle animals.

What were you like as a kid?

Sport mad, a bit of a nerd.

What event, past or present, would you like to witness?

Carlton winning a Premiership! I’d also love to see a FIFA World Cup in Australia, with some matches in Casey!

Which six dinner guests, dead or alive, would you invite to dinner?

Johnny Warren, Former Socceroos Captain; Bob Hawke, Former Prime Minister; Cathy Freeman, Olympic Champion; Father Bob Maguire, Inspiring Community Worker, and Priest; Ita Buttrose, Media Icon; and Tony Hawk, Professional Skateboarder

What three words would your friends use to describe you?

Happy, helpful, and busy!

What would you do on your perfect ’day off’?

Breakfast with my wife at a local cafe and then some fun with our kids and friends at playgrounds or a pool.

Where is your happy place?

Home. I love where we live and spending time

with Casey mayor Stefan Koomen

with my friends and family - eating good food and relaxing.

If you had to compete on MasterChef, what dish would you cook?

Cooking is not my specialty. I’m more of a ‘preparer’! I make a good chicken pasta though

(mum’s recipe).

Where is your dream holiday destination?

Can I say Bali, where there are kids-clubs and relaxing resorts?! My wife and I hope to one day visit Scotland and the Netherlands together, where our families are from.

3

Casey mayor Stefan Koomen. (Stewart Chambers: 442356)

Future of energy efficiency

By Ethan Benedicto

A new laboratory in Narre Warren will soon provide a boost to not just the City of Casey, but Victoria’s transition to energy-efficient technologies.

The International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) officially announced on Friday 6 December, the state’s first energy efficiency and appliance safety laboratory.

With its completion date set for 2026, the new lab was part of the $15 million Made in Victoria - Industry R&D Fund, which granted between $250,000 to $2 million to businesses in order to invest and support research and development across key sectors.

It serves as a major building block for the state to reach its emission targets, but most importantly, it also allows families and residents to be a part of that endeavour.

Paul Bonsak, the managing director of IAPMO Oceania, said that the State Government, through “the need for change, the need to reduce our carbon footprint”.

“We need to make sure that by developing new technologies, ensuring the safety of those technologies and their viability, we do testing to ensure the safety of our community, installers, and practitioners.

“This is an opportunity to take new ideas and innovations and ensure safety, but also through the Plumbing Industry Climate Action Centre (PICAC), we’re able to take some of this technology and pass that on to training,” he said.

IAPMO, both the global and Oceania branch have a long-standing history of fulfilling the organisation’s role of developing and adapting plumbing, mechanical and other codes to meet the needs of cities and their people.

From writing codes, conducting testing and inspections, and certifications, this new laboratory will see an expansion of the organisation’s current capabilities, catering to more - such is the lab’s name - safe and energy-efficient appliances.

IAPMO Global’s ceo, David Viola, said that

seeing such an innovative facility and, along with others, heading the global operation is “extremely exciting”.

Speaking on its origins, he said that it has “certainly been an evolution”.

“This group of like-minded people from around the world who have major influences on their specific countries came together and shared what was happening from the environment to climate change.

“From the needs of those that are installing, the needs of manufacturers and the pace of evolving technology, it didn’t take long for us to understand the things that were happening here in Australia,” he said.

Viola, collaborating with the World Plumbing

Council and individuals such as Shayne La Combre from PICAC, has referred to the lab’s construction as the move towards addressing energy efficiency in their sector.

The organisation’s president, Steven Panelli, was excited to be part of the development and said that while not everything is perfect, the initiative remains a worthwhile contribution not only for Victoria, but also for the world.

“Not everything’s perfect and anybody that says so is lying to you, you’re never going to get a hundred per cent,” he said.

“But what you can give back is a step to save our planet for everybody that’s younger.

“My grandkids, twins, it’s for them to see what we’re trying to leave behind, see what we’re trying

to do for testing and having people understand what the benefit is, and I think that’s the big push.

“It’s not so much as saying, ‘look what you’re going to save in money’ or ‘look at what you’re going to save in your energy’, it’s more of ‘look at what you’re giving back to the earth, the community, look at what you’re trying to sustain, to make things better’.”

Narre Warren South MP, Gary Maas is eager for the completion of the lab, adding that the State itself is “very keen to move towards zero emissions”.

Job creation was another aspect he touched on, but also another environment for learning, research and development.

“It’s a terrific facility and the Government Research and Development Infrastructure Fund is there for that reason,” he said.

“It not only fuels that research, that innovation, it also creates jobs for our young people.

“It’s terrific for Narre Warren in terms of job growth, but it’s terrific for the environment as well and it helps us reduce our carbon footprint in Narre Warren and gets us closer to that zero emissions target a lot faster.”

The government’s manager of innovation, industry and research and development infrastructure fund, Elizabeth Young, was also present during the event.

Briefly, she touched on the importance of the fund, and how it can “accelerate projects like this laboratory”.

“In new energy, health technology, food manufacturing, defence and aerospace,” she said.

Touching on the importance of sanitation, Bonsak emphasised the importance of proper plumbing, as well as utilising existing and developing technologies to cater to those who need access to them the most.

“I’m very excited about all this, we’ve outgrown our facility so this will give us the opportunity to expand into all the areas of plumbing,” he said.

“Not only gas and lead, but other areas and we’ll be able to service the whole industry and new technologies in energy efficiency.”

$4.2 million boost for Doveton, Harkaway schools

Two schools in Doveton and Harkaway will share in more than $4 million of federal funding for building upgrades.

As part of the Federal Government’s capital grants program, Harkaway Hills College will receive $1.65 million for a new classroom block and refurbished admin building.

The classroom block includes two general purpose classrooms, a science laboratory and three breakout rooms.

The extended admin wing will have new staff offices and meeting rooms, a waiting area and a staff room.

Holy Family School Doveton will receive $2.54 million to refurbish the Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) and senior student areas and a library.

Bruce MP Julian Hill said the new facilities would gain “better, more modern spaces in which to work, teach and learn”.

“Holy Family School and Harkaway Hills College have built incredible school communities, and I look forward to seeing how this funding will allow them to further enhance students learning.

“The Albanese Labor Government is committed to providing all schools with appropriate fundings so that every student can get the best possible education.”

Federal MP Julian Hill, pictured, welcomed building grants to Doveton Holy Family School and Harkaway Hills College. (Rob Carew: 333142)

Steven Panelli. (448075)

David Viola. (Stewart Chambers: 448075)

Turning the sod for the new IAPMO laboratory; from left to right: PICAC ceo Shayne La Combre, Paul Bonsak, Steven Panelli, David Viola, Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas and Vic gov manager innovation, industry R&D infrastructure fund Elizabeth Young. (448075)

Paul Bonsak, left. (448075)

First Scout market a hit

By Violet Li

1st Cranbourne Scout Group had its first Christmas Market in six years on Saturday 7 December.

The market day attracted more than 300 people, featuring 26 stalls with everything ranging from Christmas gifts, homemade sweets and jams, chutneys, candles, and Christmas paper wraps.

Committee chairperson Skye Nevill said the day received a lot of positive feedback.

“It was our very first market that we ran as the new committee, so, a lot of positive feedback from the stallholders as well as from people coming to attend the market,” she said.

Ms Nevill said the last Christmas Market from the group was held before Covid and it was really good to be able to bring the whole community to-

gether after six years.

“We sell Christmas trees every year, and we thought it was a really good opportunity to add a market to that because we already have people who come for our trees.

“So why not add a market to it as well? There’s also a really good opportunity for our venture unit to raise money to upgrade.”

It was very challenging to hold everything together after a six-year pause, according to Ms Nevill.

“The biggest challenge I suppose we had was not knowing what sort of foot traffic we’d get through, just making sure people actually could attend the market and really trying to advertise it,” she said.

“The advertising was the real challenging part, making sure people knew it was there.”

FOCUS ON … DISABILITY

centred care for a better quality life! Supporting all people with disabilities from children to adult providing quality services and support to our participants in South East Victoria

Celebrating six years of person-centred care

This festive season, BJ Care Services celebrated a significant milestone — six years of delivering exceptional, person-centred care across Melbourne. Our Christmas Party 2024, hosted at the beautiful Berwick Springs Hotel, was an evening filled with joy, gratitude, and togetherness, bringing over 40 of our dedicated support workers and their families under one roof.

The event featured a sumptuous Christmas feast, a tribute to the incredible individuals who form the backbone of our organisation. The air was filled with cheer as families enjoyed lively music, shared laughter at the photobooth, and flaunted their festive ensembles. It was a true reflection of the sense of community and warmth that defines BJ Care Services.

A special highlight of the evening was the unveiling of our first-ever Staff of the Year Award. We proudly recognised Pari Hualngo for her extraordinary dedication and the unconditional support she provides to our participants. Pari’s commitment exemplifies the values of person-centred

care, inspiring our team to continue fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for those we serve.

In addition to this prestigious award, we honoured every support worker with Certificates of Excellence, acknowledging their tireless efforts and compassionate service. Their contributions remain the cornerstone of our success and the heart of the high-quality care we provide.

This celebration was not only a reflection of our achievements but also a testament to the incredible people who make BJ Care Services thrive. We extend our deepest gratitude to our support workers and their families for their unwavering support and dedication.

For a glimpse into the joy and memories of the evening, visit our Instagram page: instagram. com/bjcareservices

Here’s to six years of person-centred care, and to many more years of making a difference together!

Celebrating six years of person-centred care: A joyous Christmas party and staff recognition.

From left, Jonathan, Thomas, Oscar, Connor, Patrick, Abby, Shannen.

The committee, behind from left, Skye, Amy, Kate, Jen, and Vicky. Front are Larna and Matt.

Wilma on the left her business called “Vintage Rose” making jam, butter, biscuits and fruit cakes, here with committee member Skye on the right.

Natalie on the left with her aunt Barbara James on the right who made everything here including Christmas Wreaths.

Behind from left, Patrick, Rebecca, Shannen, Abby, Connor, Luke. Front are Thomas and Oscar. Rob Carew: 448147

Jail after growing cannabis

By Violet Li

A Hampton Park gambling addict has been jailed for growing a commercial quantity of cannabis and theft of electricity.

Van Vu, 49, was sentenced at the County Court of Victoria to two years and six months behind bars on 2 December for cultivating a hydroponic crop of 164 cannabis plants and stealing $13,000 of electricity using a bypass.

He was arrested on 7 September 2023, a day after police confirmed the irregular electricity usage at his address in Hampton Park. He was seen wearing outfits relevant to cultivation when arrested. Police later discovered the plants at various stages of maturity inside the house.

In sentencing, Judge Pradeep Tiwana noted

that Vu engaged in “substantial investment in equipment that enabled cultivation to occur”.

Vu admitted that he attended Bunnings to purchase the “plant ties” for the cultivation and the cultivation was for financial gain.

The court did not hear any evidence of him, or of the cultivation being connected to a broader crime network.

In regard to the charge of theft of electricity, Judge Tiwana found that the electricity bypass was operational for about 76 days and showed a “high degree of sophistication”.

Vu admitted in court that he sought to pay off his gambling and associated debts by cultivating cannabis plants. He first engaged in gambling after the breakdown of his marriage. He was previously convicted of cultivating prohibited plants

in a commercial quantity in 2008 in New South Wales. The previous offending was also an attempt to work off gambling debts.

A witness expert diagnosed Vu with a gambling disorder.

“The underlying tenor of your counsel’s submission is that your inability to adequately deal with psychological stress led to the development of your gambling disorder, which in turn precipitated your offending behaviour,” Judge Tiwana said. The judge also considered other mitigating factors, including Vu’s early guilty plea, the “greater burden of imprisonment knowing that he was unable to care for his son”, and the positive prospects of rehabilitation.

Vu’s son moved to Australia in early 2023 after his grandparents in Vietnam were no longer able

Casey Council opens new library study zone

A new study zone was officially unveiled at Bunjil Place Library on Thursday 5 December.

Approximately 24 metres of additional study space has been installed on level one.

The Connected Libraries Facilities Development Plan 2023-2027 identified the need for increased study facilities at Bunjil Place Library.

City of Casey mayor Cr Stefan Koomen said this project was a simple, cost-effective way to have an immediate impact on the ability of students and workers to study in a safe, accessible space.

“Study spaces have become of particular interest to many library patrons who don’t have access to suitable study or work environments at home,” he said.

“The new study space accommodates up to 24 additional users at any one time.

“The increase in study space will also free up other parts of the library, such as meeting rooms that are regularly converted into quasi-study rooms, for other programming opportunities.”

Council received $14,645 in funding for the project via the Victorian Government’s Living Libraries Infrastructure Program 2023-24.

Council contributed a further $10,057 towards this project.

“On behalf of Council, I would like to thank the Victorian Government for its funding and

look forward to continuing to grow our partnership to meet the needs of our rapidly growing community,” Cr Koomen said.

Connected Libraries chief executive officer Beth Luppino said increasingly the community was looking to the library as an alternative space to study or work.

to appropriately care for him. Since Vu’s arrest, his son has been in the care of a friend.

Vu stated that his son was adjusting well to living in Australia but was also experiencing a number of challenges, including learning and concentration difficulties, atypical behaviour, and sleepwalking and sleeptalking.

“I accept that your son’s living arrangements will make your time in custody more burdensome on you,” Judge Tiwana said. “He plainly needs your support but thankfully he is living with a friend of yours who is supporting him as well as her own children.”

Vu’s jail term includes a non-parole period of 19 months. He had already served 452 days of pre-sentence detention.

Police have charged a man following a house fire on Roberts Road, Cranbourne, on the afternoon of Wednesday 4 December.

Officers arrested a 22-year-old Cranbourne man at the scene. He was charged with criminal damage by fire.

He was remanded to appear before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 5 December.

City of Casey deputy mayor Cr Melinda Ambros, mayor Cr Stefan Koomen, Connected Libraries chief executive officer Beth Luppino, Member for Narre Warren North Belinda Wilson, and Cr Kim Ross. (Supplied)

Energy, excitement and fun

As summer nights settle in, Southside Racing Cranbourne is gearing up to deliver an electrifying series of entertainment with its Saturday Night Fever lineup. A perfect blend of thrilling racing, live music, and family fun, this series promises something for everyone.

The excitement kicks off on Saturday, 28 December with the Dual Codes Kids Night Out, headlined by The Wiggles Sound System. It’s a night designed to delight young fans while keeping the whole family entertained. On 4 January, the party heats up with Chocolate Starfish, bringing their high-energy rock anthems to the stage. The momentum continues on 11 January with Hot Dub Time Machine, taking the crowd on a musical journey through decades of hits. Finally, the series concludes on 18 January with indie legends The Temper Trap, known for their iconic

sound and chart-topping hits.

What sets this series apart is its accessibility. General Admission is just $25 per night, and kids under 17 enter for FREE, making it an affordable night out. For the ultimate value, the Saturday Night Fever Super Pass offers access to all four nights for only $50 - an unbeatable deal.

For those seeking a more exclusive experience, hospitality packages are available to add a touch of luxury to your evening. Visit southsideracing.com.au for full package details.

Whether you’re a music lover, a racing enthusiast, or a family looking for a memorable outing, Southside Racing Cranbourne is the place to be this summer. Don’t miss out on these unforgettable nights of energy, excitement, and fun for everyone.

The Temper Trap.

Feel the Saturday Night Fever at Southside Racing Cranbourne - Anthony Field, Wiggles. Hot Dub Time Machine. Chocolate Starfish.

CHRISTMAS CHEER

Bloomin’ beautiful floral arrangements for

Floral arrangements are a perfect way to add some colour to your Yule time table. Ensure your house is looking its festive, floral best with these popular blooms:

Lilies

Lilies and amaryllis are always a popular choice at Christmas in a variety of colours. Many varieties have a beautiful scent that will perfume your home. They can be placed in an arrangement with other flowers or in a vase on their own and prefer to be kept away from direct sunlight in a cool environment. Remember though that lilies are extremely toxic to cats, causing acute renal failure, so think twice before gifting them to your cat-loving friend and keep them out of reach of your own felines.

Poinsettia

The poinsettia has come to symbolise Christmas, and with its bright red and green foliage it’s not hard to see why. They are commonly found

in pots, ready to adorn a table or bench in your house. However, they can be finicky; they don’t like too much water, but take care also to not let them dry out. If the leaves begin to turn yellow and fall off, you may not be watering it correctly. They’re native to Mexico, so they also prefer warmth and light, and make sure to protect them from wind and draughts to keep them happy for the Christmas season.

Rosemary

It might not be the first plant that comes to mind when you think of Christmas, but this Mediterranean herb is actually perfect for an Australian Christmas. It’s easy to grow and care for, and fills the air with a mouth-watering perfume. It can be pruned into a Christmas tree shape if desired, and best of all, pairs deliciously well with the Christmas roast.

Crunchy lemon and polenta

shortbread

This wonderful shortbread recipe from Dairy Australia has the most delightful crunchy texture from the addition of polenta and a zesty twist from added lemon rind.

Ingredients

· 250g butter, softened

· 1/2 cup caster sugar

· 1 1/4 teaspoons finely grated lemon rind

· 1 1/2 cups plain flour

· 1 cup rice flour

· 1/2 cup fine (instant) polenta

· Silver cachous, to decorate

Method

· Cream butter, sugar and zest with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.

· Turn the beater to low speed and add the combined flours and polenta gradually. Mix until combined. Turn mixture onto a clean surface and knead dough until smooth.

· Divide dough in half and using one piece at time, roll between sheets of baking paper to a thickness of about 5mm. Cut into shapes with a 10cm cutter. Re-roll dough as necessary.

· Carefully lift shapes onto baking paper lined oven trays. Using a small cutter of the same design, cut out the centre from each shape. Lightly press cachous into shortbread. Bake at 180°C (160°C fan-forced) for 8-10 minutes, until cooked through and just starting to colour.

· Cool on trays for 10 minutes, then cool completely on wire racks, before storing in an airtight container.

These delicious zesty cookies make for a great treat or even a decorative ornament with a ribbon tied around. (Supplied)

TIP: If dough becomes slightly warm and difficult to handle, roll out and place in the fridge, still between baking paper, for 10-15 minutes to firm slightly. A palate knife or thin egg lifter makes is easy to lift shapes to oven trays. Try threading ribbon around the shortbread shapes and hang off small branches in a vase, for a gorgeous edible table centre piece.

Bring some Rosemary inside for your floral arrangement - and the roast!

Poinsettias are an iconic Christmas bloom.

CHRISTMAS CHEER

An eye for quality products and services

Berwick and Pakenham optometrist OPSM is offering high-quality service and products to its customers ahead of Christmas.

Products and services on offer include comprehensive eye testing; contact lens fitting; tests for glaucoma, macular degeneration and diabetes; children’s eye exams and optical corrections; a wide range of glasses for every budget with premium quality frames and lenses and world renowned brands and services.

Local optometrist Theo Charalambous said he and his team aim to make their clients look amazing.

“We love to enhance how locals see the world,“ he said.

“We treat all of our clients like family and make sure we look out for any potentially threatening eye conditions and tailor solutions for visual needs.

“We take pride when we see our frames around town enhancing quality of life and also fashionable accessories.“

Mr Charalambous said the team supports the nearby area.

“As a franchise we are uniquely able to offer the world best practice, product and service with a local team who love what they do,“ he said.

“We live and breathe local, and ownership is local.

“We participate in free local school screenings and identify eye concerns before they become an issue for education,“ he said.

OPSM Berwick and Pakenham’s opening hours are 9am to 5.30pm Mondays to Wednesdays and Fridays, 9am to 7.30pm Thursdays and 9am to 3pm Saturdays.

Help is here

The Salvation Army 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 55 per cent of these people will be doing so for the first time.

This comes on the back of 67 per cent being negatively impacted by the cost of living this year and more than 35 per 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.

The team at OPSM Berwick - Tina, Theo and Monica.

The Salvation Army’s Christmas appeal has been launched.

CHRISTMAS CHEER

Decking the halls with boughs of holly is all very well, but if you’re looking to shake up your yuletide style, there are plenty of options out there to inject some modern colour and sparkle into your Christmas decor.

It all starts with the tree, the focal point of celebrations. A real tree never goes out of style and also smells divine. Picking the tree is a ritual in itself (we all remember that scene from Christmas Vacation) and something that kids of all ages can enjoy. And with plenty of Christmas tree farms locally, you’re sure to find the perfect pine.

Real trees take some looking after. They need a constant supply of water so choose a Christmas tree stand that allows you to fill it with water. Keep the tree away from heat sources like sunny windows, heaters and televisions as these can dry it out prematurely. A blanket or tree skirt at the base will collect up any dropped needles.

If you’re after something more low-maintenance, with the added benefit of not having to spend money on a new tree each year, faux is the way to go. Perhaps 2024 is the year to embrace a coloured tree? White trees have been in vogue for many years now and are designed to remind revellers of that elusive White Christmas ideal, in the sweltering Australian heat. Colourful decorations pair well with white trees as they stand out against the neutral base.

Pink-toned trees have also become popular this year. Colours range from the prettiest pastels to hot popping pink. They’re certainly eye-catching and unique, and work well if you have a specific palette of decorations - for example, white and black baubles for a Parisian theme.

Take this trend further with an ombre tree. The gradient of colours, set with the right baubles and lights, can look simply stunning. Ombre trees are beginning to pop up online in shades of pink, silver and even black.

throw some tinsel on, or add the plaster reindeer they made at school, let them! Christmas is a time for family, after all!

· Ensure your tree doesn’t become a fire hazard! Keep it away from flames and heat sources, and make sure any fairy lights are fireproof.

Baubles in pastels and neutral tones are ruling the racks at the moment, along with decorations made of natural materials, like wood, clay,

When it comes to decorations, the classic look of red, emerald and gold decorations remains evergreen (pardon the pun!) and adds a really festive feel to your home. If you’ve chosen a coloured tree, you might enjoy the rainbow effect of colourful baubles, or perhaps you can pick a theme of vibrant jewels that “go” with the base colour of the branches.

sisal and twine. Clear glass spheres with shimmering threads of fabric inside are also appearing on shopping mall shelves, adding intricacy and interest. Oversizes ornaments - think baubles as big as your head - are a popular sight, along with non-traditional trinkets in the shape of birds, deer and even hotdogs. There really is a bauble to suit any taste!

TIPS

· Get the family involved. If the kids want to

· You might want to consider your pets as well. Some animals will try and eat tinsel, while cats are notorious tree climbers. Think about how you can prevent this from ruining Christmas. Some creative souls are building minimaliststyle trees out of bare branches and stacking or hanging their ornaments on them instead of opting for a traditional tree.

· Trees are a great way to express your personal style. Whether you’re a maximalist or a minimalist, a nature lover or have a more modern aesthetic, now is your chance to put your taste and passions on display. Let it show, let it show, let it show!

Think about how your pets will respond to the tree. Do you have a Christmas climbing cat in your house?

Pink Christmas trees are becoming popular.

Ambitious projects pitched

By Tanya Steele

Ahead of the 2025 Election, trackless rapid transport from Caulfield to Rowville, an international airport, affordable housing, jobs, strategy and more made up a region-wide approach proposed by the Greater South East Melbourne (GESM) board.

GSEM launched its federal election platform for 2025 on Wednesday 4 December and with it plans for 12 major projects, including equal growth opportunities for women and youth unemployment.

Chancellor of Monash University Simon McKeon AO said that the platform launch was a blueprint for how GSEM can continue to grow, enhance and enrich the southeast of Melbourne, putting big wishes into a digestible format.

“Few other parts of Australia can boast the richness, the diversity, the productivity, the shared potential of this region,” he said.

“We know there are challenges as well.”

GSEM identified in its platform that the region has higher long-term unemployment than the Melbourne average and ‘concerning rates’ of women’s and youth employment.

“Many of the people who have come to call the region home are not able to access the training, education or jobs they need,” read the document.

Represented by the shires of Cardinia and Mornington Peninsula, the cities of Casey, Frankston, Greater Dandenong, Kingston, Knox and Monash, the eight councils that make up GSEM are focusing on long-ranging issues for the southeast of Melbourne.

Several region-wide projects were brought to the platform focusing on four areas - jobs and skills, infrastructure and transport, housing affordability and availability and liveability and community resilience.

Hosted by Knox City Council at the Civic Centre in Wantirna South the GSEM platform launch saw attendance by independent directors James Merlino, Margaret Fitzherbert and Simon McKeon AO, along with Frankston City Council Director Shweta Babbar, Cardinia Shire Council CEO Carol Jeffs, City of Greater Dandenong CEO Jac-

There is no cost set as yet for the Thompsons Road upgrade and extension project planned for Casey and Cardinia.

“We are a globally significant region, but really aspire to become a net zero precinct and become the first net zero precinct in the world – we have the capacity to do that,” she said.

SECA is a collaboration of a number of the councils in the South East, including some of the majority of the GSEM councils as well.

“Our remit is to support the local government as it embarks on its climate adaptation and resilience work,” said Ms Steel.

“We support them in coordinating projects across councils, so to really have a kind of provide that efficiency of an economy of scale in their approach to climate adaptation and resilience work,” she said.

“Often when we talk about climate change, there’s a real negative connotation, and rightly so – there’s a lot of challenges associated with the different climate events that we’re experiencing.”

“All of these things are happening and continue to happen, storms that were one in 100-year events are now becoming much more common –so there’s so many different challenges.”

A call to put into direct play a road map for jobs and skills, a young mothers transition program and an expansion for a Dandenong-based employment hub headed the projects GSEM wants federal assistance to invest in.

Cardinia Shire CEO Carol Jeffs said projects like a working group to develop a master plan for the South East Melbourne Airport, which would be located in Cardinia Shire is a really, really important thing for the whole region and the state of Victoria.

“It’s been talked about for a long time,” she said.

“It’s proposed to be a privately funded airport – we just need government to do their bit in terms of the planning for to make it attractive for private investors to come in.”

“We’ve been working together with the other eight councils through the GSEM, to make sure that other levels of government know about it.”

“Thompsons Road is a key, huge arterial road that will eventually be built, and we’re asking for some funding to bring that, the building of that forward, so that businesses can benefit,” said Ms Jeffs.

“The main thing about that is that in Casey and Cardinia, more than 70 per cent of people commute outside of our municipalities to work. So something like this would really encourage more local business and have jobs closer to home,” she said.

GSEM have also included plans for the electrification of all homes with a government-backed electrification loan scheme for $5 million and a future-proofing industry project that would activate net zero precincts across all the council locations.

CEO of the South East Councils Climate Change (SECA) Helen Steel said her ambition is that the southeast becomes a net zero precinct.

Ms Steel said that very often that conversation gets focused on those challenges, but climate adaptation would be when the transition to becoming a net zero economy could occur.

“There are already a lot of things happening in our region – there’s a big focus on carbon sinks and tree planting and canopy tree canopies, getting more electric vehicles on the road, and electrifying our homes and workplaces,” she said.

“I think that there’d be more prosperity.”

Mr McKeon said the platform had been developed thanks to the input and passion of literally hundreds of local leaders and stakeholders.

“It’s our job to as best we can get that into Canberra so that ultimately decisions can be made on what our knowledge is of these communities,” he said.

“Between now and Election Day, we will be engaging with ministers, other MPs, and candidates across the political divide... continuing to make the case for a great southeast. Our message will be consistent with this platform.”

Transformative year for Nas Recovery Centre

By Violet Li

Community organisation Nas Recovery Centre celebrated the achievements and visions for its major drug and alcohol support program Path2Home on Friday 6 December.

Starting around August last year, the eightweek program provides evidence-based and culturally informed drug and alcohol education and harmonisation strategies to communities from African backgrounds.

The sessions run both in-person and online in psychosocial groups with different topics for each week.

Board chair Ella Rose said at the celebration ceremony that the past year had been particularly very transformative for the organisation.

“We have initiated countless essential support services to individuals who have made significant changes in their lives,” she said.

“Many have returned to school, secured safe housing, and engaged in long-term rehabilitation with families becoming more involved in their children’s care and recovery.

“Those who are fully dedicated to giving up on drugs are adopting safer practices in their drug use through our community harm reduction outreach and path to home support groups, which equips friends, family, and individuals with the tools that they need to support their loved ones.

“Through education and effective strategies, we’ve significantly reduced the potentials associated with drug use. Individuals who used to choose drugs are now equipped with the knowledge to do so more safely, which has played a crucial role in preventing deaths and injuries.”

Founder and chief executive officer Nyachan Nyak said the program ran 33 sessions last year and the average attendance was around 11 per session.

“You could see how many people have been impacted, and then we provide one-on-one counselling support for people that have drug

and alcohol or mental health issues,” she said.

“The program has provided countless counselling session hours at a free cost to the communities.”

Ms Nyak said the program had achieved more than what they expected.

“We knew there was a gap in the community, but it has achieved way beyond what we expected in terms of numbers, but also most importantly how many people are willing to make referrals,” she said.

“Our biggest referrals are hospitals…. If

they’re referring to us, that just tells you that culturally tailored services are needed, and there is a need because that’s why they’re referring people to aftercare support to prevent them from being hospitalised again.”

The key to the achievement was cultural awareness and the understanding of the lived experience in the community, according to Ms Nyak.

“We obviously see what the issue is. We also see what the community desires, and what works for them is what we’re bringing in,” she said.

“We know our community. We’re very strength-based people because people have come from a really tough life before coming here.”

“Our cultural understanding and awareness, the fact that our team are all skilled and expertise in the areas, and being able to be in the community, are also the keys.”

In 2025, Nas Recovery Centre will open from Monday to Friday in its Cranbourne West location. It will open in the African Library in Footscray on Thursday and Friday.

Ella, Koul, Rose and Ayman.

African dance performance.

Selba-Gondoza Luka from Afri-Aus Care with Louise, Keith and Fatima.

qui Weatherill, City of Kingston CEO, Peter Bean and Knox City Council CEO Bruce Dobson.

Frankston director Shweta Babbar, Cardinia Shire CEO Carol Jeffs, Greater Dandenong CEO Jacqui Weatherill. GSEM director Margaret Fitzherbert. GSEM chair Simon McKeon, GSEM director James Merlino, Kingston CEO Peter Bean and Knox CEO Bruce Dobson. (Gary Sissons: 446692)

WHAT’S ON

Cranbourne Senior Citizens Club

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

Cranbourne Senior Citizens Club meets weekly for a range of different events, including bus trips, community days, games, coffee and chat, bingo, dancing and carpet bowls.

· Weekly activity times - Line Dancing Mon.10am-12pm, New Vogue and Old Time Dance Tue. 1pm-3.30pm, Carpet Bowls Wed. & Sat. 11.30am-2.30pm, Bingo Thur. 11am-2pm.

· For all enquiries or bookings contact Marilyn mobile 0432 107 590.

· Find us on Facebook facebook.com/ groups/487808127399953

Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre

We invite you to join us at Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre for the official opening of our community garden. Join us in our garden to celebrate this wonderful occasion and enjoy some light refreshments. All welcome.

· When: Thursday 12 December at 10am

· Where: Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre, 141 - 147 Endeavour Drive, Cranbourne North 3977

· RSVP: Call 03 5996 9056 or email admin@merindapark.com.au to book.

Tamil Festival Australia

A grand heritage carnival celebrating Thai Pongal with all-day entertainment for the whole family. Includes delicious Pongal, live music, traditional Tamil crafts, arts, history, sports and cuisine, rides and storytelling.

· Saturday 18 January, 8.30am-8pm at Caulfield Racecourse. Free entry. Details: tamilfestival. org.au

U3A Cranbourne

We have had a wonderful year with membership growing and our move to new premises. We have maintained our activities and introduced some new ones. Next year we will still be offering Line Dancing and Ballroom Dancing at Casey Basketball Stadium while the rest of our activities will be carried out at 20-22 Bowen Street, Cranbourne. Our singers and guitar and ukuleles players entertained our members at the Christmas Party held at Beaconsfield Football club to celebrate the end of the year. U3A will close on Friday the 13th and reopen the 13th January, 2025. Our membership

fees will stay the same at $50 for the whole year for as many activities as you wish to do. We thank Casey council for their support over the year and continued support into 2025. Please check out our website www.u3acranbourne.org.au to see the courses for next year or contact 0493 991 919 to learn more Cranbourne and District Garden Club

The club is turning 51 this year and still meets at the Cranbourne Public Hall from 1.15pm on the second Thursday of the month.

The club enjoys day trips and lunches, afternoon teas and friendship.

· For more information, contact Julie on 5995 1420 or Jean on 9704 6242.

Blind Bight Community Centre Craft gift making for adults from 12.30pm to 2.30pm on Tuesdays.

Join in the craft gift making class and bring along your own craft to complete.

A variety of techniques and skills are shared including mosaics, macrame, sewing and painting at $3 per class.

Playgroup from 10.30am to noon on Wednesdays. The program provides fun play activities and craft for children at $5 per family.

Free knit and crochet from noon to 2pm on Wednesdays.

Line dancing from 1pm to 2pm on Wednesdays. All ages, and abilities welcome at $10 per class.

· For more information and for bookings, visit www.blindbightcommunitycentre.com.au

Casey Cardinia Life Activities Club

Are you new newly retired, or new to the area, or just wanting to enjoy your freedom as a senior or expand your social life?

Casey Cardinia Life Activities Club can offer you stimulating activities and friendship.

The club hosts weekly social activities with dance to low-key in-line dancing if you want to tap your feet, great music, a chat, and then afternoon tea.

Day, short and long trips away via coach, a weekly morning coffee club, monthly Saturday country pub lunches, monthly Tuesday dine-outs, a weekly walking group, a weekly table tennis group, seasonal daytime musical theatre outings, entertainment function days and more.

Anyone interested can visit on Thursdays at 2pm

for socialising and low-key dancing at Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House at 21A Bemersyde Drive or join the club for a coffee and a chat every Wednesday from 10am at the new François cafe in front of Myer in Fountain Gate.

· For more information, contact enquiry officer Gloria on 0468 363 616.

Balla Balla Community Centre

Health & Wellbeing classes held at Balla Balla Community Centre include pilates on Tuesday afternoons or Wednesday evenings, Zumba - Tuesday evenings and Yoga Thursday late afternoons or evenings. Enhance your fitness levels before Spring arrives.

· For more information, visit ballaballa.com.au

Combined Probus Club of Narre Warren

The club welcomes men and women to join for fun and interesting activities.

The club hosts bowling, armchair travel, book clubs, walk and talk, happy snappers and cards.

· For enquiries, contact Heather at hsims14@ gmail.com

Scrabble Club

Berwick Activities Club has started a Scrabble Club recently and it runs every Friday from 1pm to 3.30pm.

It will be both competitive and social on a one-toone basis.

Come along to learn how to play or improve your game.

Word lists and more will be available to increase your skills.

· Contact David on 0433 566 456.

Berwick Springs VIEW Club

Affiliated with The Smith Family, the Berwick Springs VIEW Club is a not-for-profit organisation, with the aim to fundraise to support Learning for Life students.

The club currently supports 10 students of varying ages with their education expenses.

The club meets on the first Monday of each month in the Berwick Springs Hotel function room from 11.15am, where members enjoy lunch and then host a guest speaker.

Throughout the year, the club has a couple of special fundraisers, as well as casual morning tea and lunch for interested ladies.

The club is always looking for new members in all age groups.

· For more information, contact Shirley on 0438 191 759 or email berwicksprings.viewclub@ gmail.com

Probus Club of Casey Combined

Meetings finish at noon when many of our members assemble for lunch at one of the local cafes.

· The club meets at the Old Cheese Factory at 9.45am on the second Tuesday of each month.

BADFolk Club

Berwick and District Folk Club meets on the third Friday of each month.

Doors open at 6.30pm, with the music running from 7pm to 10pm with entry $15.

· For more information, visit badfolkclub.org or contact Edward on 0418 535 264.

Craft classes

Join Berwick Activities Group’s Elizabeth to discover the world of papercraft and have a chat with like-minded people.

Tuesdays from 10am to noon at Timbarra Community Centre at $5 per class, all materials supplied.

· Contact admin@berwicknc.com.au or phone 9704 1863.

Narre Warren Senior Citizens Centre

If you are over 55 years old, newly retired, or new to the Casey area and looking for something to do, come and join the main club day on Wednesdays from 9.30am to 3pm at 192-196 Centre Road in Narre Warren.

There are also weekly activities on other days of the week, which include the Garden Group Club, indoor carpet bowls, line dancing, table tennis, friendly card games, and a gentle exercise class.

· For more information, phone 9704 0015 or 0426 736 467 or email narrewarrenseniors@ gmail.com

Chair dancing

Would you enjoy exercising from the comfort of your chair?

Join the Berwick Activities Group for some seated movement sessions from 10.45am to 11.30am on Wednesdays including fun and uplifting songs and different styles and eras of music.

Timbarra Community Centre at $8 per session.

· For more information, contact admin@berwicknc.com.au or phone 9704 1863.

Countdown to the Pakenham Cup

Mark your calendars for Saturday, 21 December, as the Sportsbet Pakenham Cup delivers the ultimate summer celebration of racing, fashion, and live entertainment. This year’s event promises to be a standout, with the highly anticipated $1,000,000 Supernova Slot Race taking centre stage alongside an unmissable lineup of activities.

Adding to the excitement, Super Disco Club will bring their funky, feel-good beats to the stage for an electrifying live set. Led by Andy Van (of Madison Avenue fame) and Cassie Van, Super Disco Club fuses retro disco vibes with modern house music, guaranteeing a dancefloor-ready experience from trackside to sunset. With hits like “Don’t Call Me Baby” and disco-inspired anthems, this is your chance to groove your way through an unforgettable day at the Cup.

It’s not just about racing and music, fashion takes the spotlight too. The Sohl Store Fashions on the Field competition boasts over $17,500 in prizes across categories including Best Dressed, Best Dressed Local, Best Suited, and Best Millinery. For prime viewing, grab tickets to The Atrium and use code SOHL for an exclusive discount.

General Admission tickets start at just $30, with limited spots remaining in the Trackside Garden Party, The Atrium, and the Festive Feast. Explore all packages and secure your place now at southsideracing.com.au.

Gather your crew, dress to impress, and Get on the BEST Side at the Sportsbet Pakenham Cup, where racing, revelry, and rhythm collide!

Serious injuries

A motorcyclist has suffered serious injuries after being allegedly struck by a hit-run driver in Skye.

The 40-year-old male rider was travelling north on Dandenong-Hastings Road when struck by a white Ford Ranger Wildtrack in the north-bound emergency lane.

Police say the Ford driver didn’t stop but continued driving north.

The rider was taken to hospital with serious leg injuries.

The Ford was seen being driving erratically before the crash, police say.

Any dashcam, CCTV footage or other information to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au

CCTV footage of a white Ford Ranger Wildtrack allegedly involved in a hit-run crash on Dandenong-Hastings Road, Skye on December 10. (Victoria Police)

Countdown to the Sportsbet Pakenham Cup!

Eels Atticus turns trailblazer

One smile will beam brighter than the rest when NRL club Melbourne Storm descends on Pakenham this Saturday for an open training session at Comely Banks Recreation Reserve.

Among the four teams on show - NRL, under-21s, under-19s and under-17s - will be Pakenham Eels hooker and Maranatha Christian School student at Endeavour Hills Atticus Buchanan, a 16-year-old who began his journey in rugby league when the Eels were formed in 2016. It’s fair to say; both club and player have grown and prospered over the last nine seasons.

Once a nomad of the local sporting landscape, the Eels home base at Comely Banks is now highly-regarded in NRL circles; one of only two rugby league facilities in Victoria capable of hosting all four Melbourne Storm teams for training.

And Buchanan is a trailblazer himself, being the first Pakenham Eels junior selected in the Storm’s ‘Road to AAMI Park’ pathways program.

As a bottom-ager he was selected for the Harold Matthews under-17 squad last year; with injury not only cruelling his chances, but making him hungrier to prove his credentials this time around.

“I had hamstring strains in both legs, which was disappointing, but it’s taught me a good lesson for this year in a way and made me appreciate the opportunity a bit more,” Buchanan explained.

“Even if I didn’t make it last year, I would have been happier knowing that it was based on my skill and not injury.

“But it’s great to have another chance this year and I’m keen to make the most of it.

“I took it for granted to be honest; I didn’t realise how big it is until I started meeting these fellas that you see on TV; it made me realise how big this could be.

“I’m the first player from Pakenham to be selected which it makes it all the more special as well.”

Buchanan still has one more step to take to make the final squad of 28 players, having show-

cased his talents well enough to make the current squad of 38; whittled down from a starting number of 160.

With the support of his parents Jason and Elica, Buchanan makes the trip to Seabrook Reserve, Broadmeadows, four times a week, to improve his craft. He is enjoying the opportunity to improve his

already impressive skillset.

“I pride myself on my running game and my ability to get out of Hooker is pretty good,” he said.

“I have developed my ‘eyes-up’ footy as well, which is less structured and more reactive to what’s going on around me.

“And I’ve been working on other stuff that I wasn’t great at, like passing and my technique

9775 3210 swa224c 12577486-AV46-22 BIRD AVIARY Mobile on six casters, three nest boxes and three entry doors. L 8ft,10in x H 6ft x W 2ft, 1in. $495. O.N.O.

when tackling and how I approach the player.

“Those are the two main ones, but there’s plenty to work on.

“Until I got there, I didn’t think my technique was wrong or bad, but the coaches at that level really pick up on everything.

“Before I came in, I knew they would be a little more professional than what I’m used to, but when you get in there it’s a whole support system around you which makes it nice and welcoming.

“Every day I just try and better myself and I’ve realised this is what I really want to do.

“To make it to the NRL would be brilliant; but I have to take it one step at a time.”

Buchanan, who first modelled his game on North Queensland legend Johnathan Thurston, can’t wait for Saturday; when his local club gets to host the only NRL ticket in town.

“I’ve been at Pakenham (Eels) for my whole life and being able to see it develop from a bumpy round AFL field, that was muddy all the time, to this great facility we have now, it makes me feel really proud to look back on the journey and know that this is my club,” he explained.

“I can’t really put into words to be honest, to be at my home club on Saturday but be representing something really high; it will be special.

“We won’t be training with the NRL team, but alongside them, and it almost feels like we’re part of the Melbourne Storm team on the day.

“It’s hard to think about, but just soaking up the moment is going to be important and something I will really focus on.”

The Pakenham Eels are inviting all of the community to come along and watch the open training session, with the opportunity available to meet players and get photos and autographs on the day.

EVENT DETAILS

Melbourne Storm Open Training

Saturday 14 December

8:30am - 12:30pm

Comely Banks Recreation Reserve 125 Bridge Road Officer

Structuralsteel fabricator Lookingforthe following: Selfmotivated employee. Abletoworkwith othersaswellas independently. Readdrawings,mig welding,oxycutting, safeuseofpowertools.

Reliableandableto worktoSaturdays. Punctualandhonest. Maysuitsemi-retired. Contact:Tim tim@metweldsteel. com.au

Melbourne Storm prospect Atticus Buchanan is proving a trailblazer for the burgeoning Pakenham Eels. (Michael Winter: 449255)

Berwick back in business

By Marcus Uhe

There are rumblings in the Dandenong District Cricket Association’s Turf 1 animal kingdom.

A 39-run win over the competition’s benchmark side has seen Berwick muscle its way into the top four for the first time this summer.

After dropping their first three contests of the summer, the Bears have roared back to life with a hat-trick of impressive wins, culminating in Saturday’s upset of Hallam Kalora Park at Hallam Recreation Reserve.

In tackling the high-flying Hawks, a side gunning for its sixth win on the bounce, the Bears ran into trouble with the bat in the first innings and dug their way to a respectable score of 8/185.

Hawks opener William Whyte removed Matthew Hague in the innings’ opening over before Jake Hancock, Brodie Herkess and Jordan Cleland all departed for single-figure scores.

Michael Wallace was tasked with the anchoring role, batting the majority of the innings to notch a patient 69 as wickets fell around him, but found resistance late in the piece from Lachlan Brown, who made 33.

Lauchlan Gregson took 4/48 for the Hawks with Whyte just behind on 3/41.

Hallam Kalora Park founding scoring tough in its batting innings and encountered further trouble when key players, Jordan Hammond and Mahela Udawatte both made way in the fifth over.

Losing wickets in groups would become a theme of the innings for the Hawks which wasted a solid platform laid by Leigh booth and Damith Perera.

The two added 55 for the third wicket and advanced the score to 2/70 but departed in quick succession to bring two fresh batters to the crease, with Austin Fardell’s stay at the wicket extremely

DDCA DANDENONG DISTRICT CRICKET ASSOCIATION TURF 1 REVIEW - ROUND 8 (ONE DAY)

brief, making it a loss of 3/10.

Another collapse of 3/12 followed later in the innings for a score of 8/116, with the Hawks rolled in the 42nd over for 146.

Berwick’s trio of spinners in Hague, Brown and Elliot Mathews kept the scoring rate down, as Toby Wills took 3/23.

Where the Bears are flying, two other apex predators are slumping, as Beaconsfield and Narre South both suffered a third consecutive defeat, with the Lions falling to the foot of the ladder after a heavy loss to North Dandenong,

A rain delay shortened the contest to a 35 oversaside fixture but it mattered little, as the Lions last-

DDCA Turf 1 Scoreboard

Extras (8WD, 2NB, 1LB, 0B, 0P) 11 Total (45 Overs) ..............................................................9/170

Fall of Wickets: 1-10 A Fernando, 2-80 T Clark, 3-96 A Walgamage, 4-111 S Pradeep, 5-136 A Taniwal, 6-138 R Clark, 7-163 M Dunstan, 8-166 J Cutting, 9-167 C Johnson. Springvale South Bowling: N Boland 12-1-46-2, J Dowling

7-0-40-2, J Sketcher 7-1-27-0, B Baxter 7-2-28-0, J Straker 12-4-28-4.

SPRINGVALESOUTH

M Forsyth c: J Cutting, b: M Tielen 36

C Scott run out (A Taniwal, M Dunstan) 18

C Forsyth not out ..................................................................38

J Wyatt c: C Johnson, b: A Taniwal ........................................51

B Baxter not out ...................................................................27

Extras (4WD, 1NB, 1LB, 0B, 0P) 6

Total (37 Overs) .............................................................3/176

ed just 24 overs, dismissed for 90 chasing 174.

It’s the fourth time in five one-day contests that the Lions have failed to see out 45 overs, highlighting their frailties with the willow.

Ducks for Kyle Hardy, Vikai Kelley and Adam Snelling in the top order had the Lions reeling at 3/4, and despite contributions from Jeevan Mendis and Zac Wilson, Narre South fell into further trouble at 7/48 when spinner Charith Keerthisinghe grabbed two wickets in the 16th over.

Callan Tout would top score for the Lions at number nine with 23, as Sushant Gupta finished the pick of the bowlers with 4/24.

In a complete juxtaposition to its opposition,

4-57 R Silva, 5-90 J Hobbs, 6-113 J Holden. Dandenong West Bowling: D Kulasekara 7-0-28-0, A Sri Mahan 5-1-16-2, A Reid 4-0-31-2, M Bandara 7-0-30-2, Riley Siwes 4-0-14-0.

Buckley Ridges won by four wickets. NARRESOUTHvNORTHDANDENONG

TOSS: Narre South – Bowl NORTHDANDENONG

S Mehmood st: V Kelley, b: H Barndon 41 R Dhindsa lbw: J Mendis 30

T Sultani c: J Mendis, b: Z Wilson 19

S Kulkarni lbw: Z Wilson 20

M Dawa khan lbw: J Mendis 23

D Miakhel b: Z Wilson 8

North Dandenong’s top five all made starts, posting 173 in one of the side’s most well-rounded displays of the season.

Opener Syed Mehmood top scored with 41 as Wilson’s excellent summer back at Strathaird Reserve continued, finishing with 5/37.

Beaconsfield, meanwhile, was found lacking answers against Springvale South spinner Jarryd Straker.

Straker’s nine over spell in the middle of the innings ended with figures of 3/15, before returning later in the piece to grab a fourth, ending with 4/28.

The Tigers posted 9/170, led by 46 from Ashan Madhushanka at the top of the order, but Springvale South needed only 37 overs to complete the chase with seven wickets in hand.

Jordan Wyatt blasted his second half-century of the summer, and sixth innings striking at over 100, with 51 from 27 balls, while Forsyth brothers Cam and Mitch both reached the 30s.

Elsewhere, Buckley Ridges returned to the top of the table after a four-wicket win over Dandenong West.

The staggering summer of Ishan Jayarthana continued for Buckley Ridges, who took his third six-wicket haul of the season to move six wickets clear at the top of the leading wicket-taker’s list.

Dandenong West reached 115 from 44 overs in a defiant batting innings spearheaded by Don Pulukkuttiarachchi’s 43.

There was the chance of an upset when the Bucks fell to 4/57 upon Roshane Silva’s dismissal but a steady 35 from Josh Holden guided his side to safety.

The wickets were shared among the Dandenong West bowlers but superstar Nuwan Kulasekara finished wicketless for just the second time this season.

Kalora Park Bowling: W Whyte 12-1-41-3, J Hammond 7-0-33-0, L Brown 7-2-27-0, L Gregson 12-2-48-4, P Singh 7-0-32-1

HALLAM KALORA PARK

L Booth lbw: M Hague 15

J Hammond b: J Trodd ........................................................5

M Udawatte lbw: J Trodd 0

D Perera c: J Cleland, b: T Wills 40

A Fardell c: J Cleland, b: T Wills 8

A Warfe c&b: L Brown 23

A Kanuganti lbw: L Brown 1

L Brown lbw: E Mathews 4

P Singh not out 5

L Gregson b: T Wills 25

W Whyte b: J Goodes 1 Extras (12WD, 2NB, 2LB, 3B 0P)..........................................19

Total (41.4 Overs)...............................................................146

Fall of Wickets: 1-15 J Hammond, 2-15 M Udawatte, 3-70 L Booth, 4-72 D Perera, 5-80 A Fardell, 6-104 A Kanuganti, 7-109 L Brown, 8-116 A Warfe, 9-144 L Gregson, 10-146 W Whyte.

Berwick Bowling: J Trodd 7-1-50-2, J Goodes 7.4-2-13-1, T Wills 9-2-23-3, M Hague 7-2-15-1, L Brown 5-1-18-2, E Mathews 6-0-22-1.

Berwick won by 39 runs.

SPRINGVALESOUTHvBEACONSFIELD

TOSS: Springvale South – Bowl. BEACONSFIELD

A Fernando c: J Wyatt, b: J Dowling 2

A Madhushanka c: J Wyatt, b: J Straker 46

T Clark c: C Forsyth, b: J Straker 29

S Pradeep c: J Wyatt, b: J Straker

Fall of Wickets: 1-48 C Scott, 2-70 M Forsyth, 3-126 J Wyatt. Beaconsfield Bowling: J Cutting 4-0-13-0, A Madhushanka 7-1-25-0, S Pradeep 4-0-18-0, Ml Tielen 6-0-30-1, M Kidd 5-0-29-0, A Taniwal 5-0-26-1, C Johnson 6-0-34-0.

Springvale South won by seven wickets.

DANDENONG WEST V BUCKLEY RIDGES

TOSS: Buckley Ridges – Bowl.

DANDENONG WEST

S Weir lbw: I Jayarathna 0

V Hemachandra b: I Jayarathna 10

D Pulukkuttiarachchi lbw: I Jayarathna 43

A Brannan lbw: I Jayarathna 0

R Siwes c: R Silva, b: S Dinesh 14

D Kulasekara b: H Ali

Collett b: S Dinesh

Sri Mahan b: I Jayarathna

A Reid not out

Extras (6WD, 7NB, 0LB, 0B, 0P) 13 Total (43.4 Overs) ..............................................................115

Fall of Wickets: 1-0 S Weir, 2-15 V Hemachandra, 3-15 A Brannan, 4-73 R Siwes, 5-83 D Pulukkuttiarachchi,

H Ali 7-0-27-1, P Chahal 7-1-13-0, D Tormey 6-0-31-0, S Dinesh 12-2-27-3.

B Wright b: A Sri Mahan

D Vimukthi b: J Mendis 1

M Khail b: Z Wilson 1

R Sahota not out 4

S Gupta b: Z Wilson 1

C Keerthisinghe not out 8 Extras (9WD, 1NB, 6LB, 1B, 0P) 17

Total (35 Overs) ..............................................................9/173 Fall of Wickets: 1-65 R Dhindsa, 2-92 T Sultani, 3-104 S Mehmood, 4-138 M Dawa khan, 5-150 D Miakhel, 6-151 D Vimukthi, 7-152 M Khail, 8-161 S Kulkarni, 9-163 S Gupta.

Narre South Bowling: C Tout 5-0-21-0, L Sheehan 3-0-22-0, Z Wilson 10-0-37-5, J Mendis 10-1-49-3, K Hardy 1-0-4-0, H Barndon 4-0-25-1, J Zietsman 2-0-8-0.

NARRESOUTH

K Hardy lbw: S Gupta 0

V Jayasuriya lbw: D Umagiliyage 8

V Kelley b: D Umagiliyage 0

A Snelling c, b: S Gupta 0

S Brooks c, b: R Sahota 8

J Mendis c, b: C Keerthisinghe 20

Z Wilson c, b: S Gupta 21 J Zietsman st, b: C Keerthisinghe

C Tout st, b: C Keerthisinghe 23

L Sheehan lbw: S Gupta 1

H Barndon not out 0

Extras (4WD, 2NB, 2LB, 1B, 0P)

Fall of Wickets: 1-0 K Hardy, 2-3 V Kelley, 3-4 A Snelling, 4-8

V Jayasuriya, 5-33 S Brooks, 6-48 J Mendis, 7-48 J Zietsman, 8-64 Z Wilson, 9-67 L Sheehan, 10-90 C Tout.

North Dandenong Bowling: S Gupta 10-3-24-4, D Vimukthi 5-1-15-2, R Sahota 3-1-18-1, M Khail 1-0-10-0, C Keerthisinghe 4.3-0-20-3.

North Dandenong won by 83 runs

Matthew Wallace made a vital 69 in Berwick’s big win over Hallam Kalora Park. (Rob Carew: 436976)

Dandenong West’s Malinga Bandara sweeps fellow Sri Lankan spinner, Buckley Ridges’ Sanka Dinesh. (Rob Carew: 447930)

Swans split T20s at Casey

By Marcus Uhe

A thrilling battle between Casey South Melbourne and Dandenong in Victorian Premier Cricket T20 action at Casey Fields set the scene for a brilliant day of quality action across three competitive matches.

GAME 1

DANDENONG 3/145 def CASEY SOUTH

MELBOURNE 9/144

Dandenong leg-spinner Gehan Seneviratne was the hero in the Panthers’ seven-wicket in the opening contest, bowling four overs of leg spin and taking a brilliant juggling catch on the rope, before hitting the winning runs on the penultimate delivery of the match to seal victory.

With four runs required off the final two balls, he nailed a straight drive past veteran left-arm quick Jackson Fry towards his nervous teammates beyond the long-on boundary, who rode the ball home having completed the task at hand.

A tricky batting surface and a 9.30am start gave Dandenong the better of conditions, keeping Casey South Melbourne to 9/144.

No partnership passed 50 and no batter reached 40 as the continual flow of wickets stymied efforts to build momentum at Casey Fields.

Sam Newell’s quick-thinking behind the stumps ran out Luke Shelton on 27 and Ruwantha Kellapotha was removed shortly after for 37 after hitting a low return catch to Seneviratne.

Seneviratne and spin-twin Vishwa Ramkumar bowled brilliantly during the middle overs with accurate and probing deliveries that consistently challenged the stumps.

Crossing triple figures for the loss of just three wickets, the Swans then waste solid foundations made by the top order, with batters number five to 10 combining for just 42 runs.

Veteran James Nanopoulos finished with 3/20 from four overs while Ramkumar’s 0/17 from his four reflected the high esteem in which he’s held by pathway coaches.

The chase, while not a huge, was anything but simple and not settled until the final over of the innings.

Where the home side lost wickets in the pursuit of quick runs, Dandenong’s opening pair Matthew Wilson and Shobit Singh showed restraint by picking gaps in the field with conventional cricket shots.

Singh departed just as he appeared to find his rhythm, skying a cut shot into the gloves of Devin Pollock, having lifted Kellapotha for a glorious six over cover just a handful of deliveries prior.

Wilson rode his luck, meanwhile, surviving dropped chances by Kellapotha early in his stay, and from Matthew Calder on 29, before Kellapotha made amends when he reached 35.

Their departures saw Nanopoulos join forces with an established Brett Forsyth at the crease with 48 runs required from the final 36 deliveries.

The experienced heads navigated the situation well, finding the occasional boundary and rotating the strike as Shelton turned to his leaders in Kellapotha and Nathan Lambden for breakthroughs.

The Swans dropped their fielding standards as the Panthers’ pair continued to chip away at the target.

Wickets in hand meant they could play with some reservations but the longer the innings went the more tense it became.

Kellapotha bowled a brilliant 16th over for the Swans, conceding just three runs from the first five deliveries but Nanopoulos then advanced down the wicket to find a boundary.

The 17th over yielded another seven, leaving 27 runs needed from the final 18.

The 18th was a wild one from Jack Stevenson, conceding just five off the bat but another five in extras in what was a 10-ball over.

Forsyth departed at the end of the 19th, leaving Nanopoulos and Seneviratne to finish the job,

with nine required from the final over.

Fry bowled tight lines early in the over to Nanopoulos, who threw caution to the wind by taking a leg bye on the fourth ball, giving his new partner the strike, with four required from the last two.

His faith in Seneviratne was rewarded, however, who calmly finished off the job.

Forsyth top-scored with 46 from 38 deliveries; in Dandenong’s first win over the Swans in T20’s since 2016.

GAME 2

DANDENONG 8/105 def ESSENDON 9/102 Essendon sent the Panthers in to bat for game two, but only Wilson could find a foothold in slippery conditions making 59 in a rain-shortened innings as Dandenong reached 8/105.

Half an hour of play was lost due to a rain delay in the Panthers’ innings with the contest reduced to 16 overs per side.

Forsyth’s 15 was the highest score beyond Wilson’s, leaving the bowlers with a huge challenge in front of them to notch a second win.

Nanopoulos made a dream start with the ball, removing the Essendon openers early, while Ramkumar and Seneviratne were economical and attacking once more, with no Bombers partnership passing 20.

Playing the role Wilson did for Essendon,

however, was Connor Poulton.

The Bombers’ number four saw partners come and go but remained his side’s primary hope of winning, with a flurry of boundaries in the final four overs dragging his side back.

With 18 runs required from the last over, Poulton thick-edged boundaries off Nathan Whitford’s opening two balls to draw the equation back to an outside chance.

Whitford then executed a wide yorker brilliantly and escaped with a dot ball off the third. They ran two with a leg-side heave on the fourth, with now eight required from the last two balls.

But another sensational wide yorker by Whitford ensured the task was impossible on the final ball, with eight runs required.

Poulton nailed a four, but it was to no avail, as the Panthers made it two wins from two matches with Seneviratne joined Nanopoulos in taking three wickets in the defence.

GAME 3

CASEY SOUTH MELBOURNE 3/189 def ESSENDON 9/178

Casey’s second contest of the day was considerably more batter friendly, with 367 runs scored as the home side downed Essendon by 11 runs.

While receiving an even spread of contributors, it was the Kellapotha show once more, who showed his class with bat and ball.

He was one of four to make a contribution with the bat, adding 55 from 36 as the Swans reached 3/189, before taking 4/22 to spearhead the defence.

His wickets came in groups, twice taking two wickets in the same over.

Shelton (45), Calder (42) and Ashley Chandrasinghe (29) all helped push the Swans to an excellent total, scoring at more than nine runs per over.

Each scored at a strike rate over 100, with Calder’s reaching 200 and Kellapotha’s 152.7.

Essendon started well but lost its top three batters for three runs, as the first of Kellapotha’s double strikes made an impact.

Regular wickets by the Swans forced the visitors into a stop-start chase, with seamers Fry and Lambden striking in the middle overs between Kellapotha’s efforts.

The T20 portion of the season continues this week, with the Swans heading to St Kilda, to face Greenvale and Melbourne at the Albert Ground.

Dandenong, meanwhile, hosts Kingston Hawthorn and Geelong at Shepley Oval.

Bloods on the back foot after Bears send a statement

By Marcus Uhe

Berwick has made a dream start to the Dandenong District Cricket Association T20 and sent a message in its performance by thrashing Springvale South in the competition’s opening round on Thursday night.

The Bears rolled the defending champions for just 107 and completed the chase for the loss of just three wickets, as opener Jarryd Wills steered his side home with ease in the 17th over.

Springvale South’s opening pair of Jordan Wyatt and Brett Forsyth carried big expectations, and with the Bloods batting first, a big chase loomed for the Bears in a battle of the competition’s two previous winners.

But with both openers back in the pavilion within the opening four overs, the Bears seized the momentum and rarely looked back.

Regular wickets saw the Bloods fail to build partnerships with only Blade Baxter occupying the crease for more than a handful of overs.

Baxter did his best to rotate the strike and arrest the slide of his teammates at the other end, but eventually fell for 27 later in the innings to top-score for his side.

Blessed with bowling options - so much so that skipper, Jarrod Goodes, chose not to bowl himself - it was the part time spin of opening batter Matthew Hague that caused the most damage for the Bears, outshining former Wookey Medal winner Ruwantha Kellapotha by taking 4/14 from his four overs.

Hague could not replicate his heroics with the bat, skying a tough catch for Jordan Wyatt behind the stumps for just eight, but his opening

partner in crime in Wills made the required big score to get his side over the line.

The left-hander smacked an unbeaten 69 to steer the chase, with particular success targeting Alex Nelson Reserve’s short straight boundaries.

One six, which landed on a water tank at the nature reserve end of the ground and bounced in the fauna behind it, saw the ball require replacing.

With Kellapotha and Jake Hancock making just three runs each and the Bears finding themselves at 3/41, Springvale South had a chance to make inroads, but Wills was joined at the wicket by the mature head of Michael Wallace.

The pair added 70 for the final wicket, with Wallace unbeaten on 24, and finishing the contest with a huge straight six.

Around the competition, Turf 1 clubs North Dandenong and Narre South posted monster totals in their wins over Berwick Springs and Parkfield, respectively, while Turf 3 clubs Hampton Park and Narre North upset their respective Turf 2 opponents to open their campaigns with important wins.

ROUND ONE RESULTS

· Hampton Park 7/155 (Travis Lacey 79, Ankit Saxena 4/27) def Parkmore 5/154 (Satheesh Fernandu 58, Ranees Khaleel 2/23) by three wickets.

· Cranbourne 5/107 (Jordan McDermott 32, Davandeep Premi 2/24) def Fountain Gate 8/106

(Julius Sumerauer 3/16) by five wickets.

· St Mary’s 5/95 def Doveton 91 (Junaid Kari 2/9) by five wickets.

· Berwick 3/111 (Jarryd Wills 69) def Springvale South 107 (Matthew Hague 4/14) by seven wickets.

· Narre North 3/124 (Kamesh Lokuge 92) def Narre Warren 8/123 (Kim Bentick 3/16) by seven wickets.

· North Dandenong 9/177 (Tahsinullah Sultani 60, Sachintha Rajapakse 3/33) def Berwick Springs 6/141 (Joshua Sawrey 56, Sushant Gupta 3/32) by 36 runs.

· Lynbrook 8/123 def Keysborough 8/122 by two wickets.

· Narre South 6/192 (Zac Wilson 39, Dishan Malalasekera 3/38) def Parkfield 8/133 (Hansika Kodikara 41, Kyle Hardy 3/19) by 59 runs.

FIXTURES - ROUND TWO

Wednesday 11 December, 5.15pm (Home listed team first)

Parkfield v Dandenong West

Beaconsfield v Fountain Gate

Berwick v Buckley Ridges

Berwick Springs v Silverton

Keysborough v HSD

Hallam Kalora Park v Doveton

Narre Warren v Coomoora

Lyndale v Hampton Park

Matthew Calder showcased his ball-striking ability for Casey South Melbourne in T20 action. (Rob Carew: 382049)

Jarryd Wills batted wondefully for Berwick in the Bears’ successful run chase. (Rob Carew: 436976)

Build up for Pakky Cup

By David Nagel

The build up to Pakenham’s richest ever raceday on Saturday 21 December will reach fever-pitch early next week when the stars of the turf put the final polish on their preparations for the big day.

Southside Racing is opening the doors at Sportsbet Pakenham on Tuesday 17 December, with its Stars and Strides Breakfast Gallops providing a behind-the-scenes look as the cup-day contenders take on their final track gallops.

Excitement is building as the time-honoured $300,000 Listed Pakenham Cup (2500m) is joined by the ‘new-kid’ on the block, the $1million The Supernova (1400m), on a magnificent program of racing

just four days out from Christmas.

The Stars and Strides Breakfast Gallops will pave the way for a unique event at the Cardinia Club on Racecourse Road in Pakenham just 24 hours later, with the barrier draw for both races on Wednesday 18 December.

The Cardinia Club is just a stone’s throw from the old Pakenham Racecourse, which hosted racing for the Pakenham Racing Club from 1926 through to its final ever race meeting on Friday 14 February, 2014.

That race at Racecourse Road was won by the Amy Johnston-trained Artie Royale, with Johnston (now Amy Yargi) the grand-daughter of famous jumps jockey Jim Houlahan

The first race meeting at the new track at Tynong

was held on Thursday 26 March, 2015, with the first race won by the Robbie Griffiths-trained Faction; ridden by Melbourne Cup-winning jockey Mark Zahra.

PAKENHAM CUP BUILD UP

TUESDAY 17 DECEMBER

What: Stars and Strides Breakfast Gallops

Where:Pakenham Racecourse

When:6.45am to 8am

WEDNESDAY 18 DECEMBER

What:Cup and Supernova Barrier Draws

Where:Cardinia Club, Racecourse Road, Pakenham

When:8.30am to 10am

*RSN927 will broadcast the barrier draw live

*Both events are ‘free’ to the community

Panthers relish early start with tight win over Cranbourne

NARRE WARREN BOWLS

The bowling week started on Friday night for Narre Warren Bowls Club after Cranbourne approached the club to move the game from Cranbourne and play it under the roof at The Panther Dome due to the expected storm.

During the week Narre Warren welcomed back to the club a key member of last year’s major pennant winning team in Eathen Higgins.

In what has become customary between the two clubs it was another very tight game, with Narre Warren taking 16 of the 18 points and winning by two shots overall.

Best rink was Lynne Wood; Jim Stewart; Russell Keay and Tim Gray 24-17.

The second team, coming off a very strong win last week, took on the top-of-the-table Pakenham.

In what was a close game for most of the day Narre Warren pulled away at the end and had a comfortable win taking 15 points and winning by 36 shots overall.

Best rink: Keith Emms; Dean George; Wilma Stevenson and Peter Wills 40-5.

Narre 3 travelled to Beaumaris and in another close game came away with three points going down 72-88 overall.

Narre is sitting fourth on the table and welcome Sandringham next week who are one point behind in fifth.

Best rink: Ash Suhr; Luke Suhr; Alan Meyer and Adrian Johnson 30-17.

Narre Warren 4 also travelled away this time to Burden Park and had a hard time adjusting to their green in the windy conditions and eventually went down 86-74, gaining two points.

Best rink was Brian Exton; David DeVries and Darren Thompson 23-12.

Narre Warren 5 played in the close one this week traveling to Keysborough which is never easy and getting a much-needed win by one shot overall.

Narre Warren gained 14 points with the best rink being Mitch McCauley; Tom Wright; Glenn McCauley and Carl Lapham 18-15.

Narre Warren 6 welcomed Mulgrave Country Club 6 to the Panther Dome in what was expected to be a very close game.

It didn’t disappoint and with Mulgrave pulling away at the end Narre gained a valuable two points but went down 64-81 overall.

Best rink was Len O’Brien; Warren Hobson; Ray Payne and Andy Tobler 22-11.

The Ferguson Plarre rink of the day award went to: Keith Emms; Dean George; Wilma Stevenson and Peter Wills 40-5.

RESULTS

SATURDAY PENNANT – ROUND 8

Side 1: 6 Dec (Pantherdome) defeated Cranbourne 87-85 Points: 16. Ladder: Sixth

Best rink: Lynne Wood; Jim Stewart; Russell Keay and Tim Gray +7

HSD stumble has Parkmore kicking clear

By Marcus Uhe

A shock loss for HSD against Lyndale saw Parkmore move a game clear at the top of the table in the Dandenong District Cricket Association’s Turf 2 competition on Saturday. Lyndale needed 35 overs to chase HSD’s total of 168 in a surprise win at home, just the Two Blues’ second of the summer.

The Dales kept Mackenzie Gardner to one run and Triyan De Silva to 10, with only Brent Patterson (40) and Anuda Akmeemana (54) making starts in tricky batting conditions.

HSD took regular wickets early during Lyndale’s chase as Craig Hookey rotated his bowlers effectively to present consistent new challenges for Lyndale to conquer, but hard hitting and targeting the short boundary from the Lyndale batters saw the chase completed in the 35th over.

Himesh Galhenage Don batted through pain to post an entertaining half-century, with excellent support from Manroop Singh’s 38 and Priyan De Silva’s 24.

Singh’s 38 made for an excellent all-round day after taking 3/59 with the ball.

Side 2: (Home) defeated Pakenham 100-64

Points: 15. Ladder: Fourth

Best rink: Keith Emms; Dean George; Wilma Stevenson and Peter Wills +35

Side 3: (Away) lost to Beaumaris 72-88

Points: 3 Ladder: Fourth

Best rink: Ash Suhr; Luke Suhr; Alan Meyer and Adrian Johnson +13

Side 4: (Away) lost to Burden Park 74-86

Points: 4. Ladder: Fifth

Best rink: Robert Scott; Brian Exton; David DeVries and Darren Thompson +11

Side 5: (Away) defeated Keysborough 75-74

Points: 14. Ladder: Sixth

Best rink: Mitch McCauley; Tom Wright; Glenn McCauley and Carl Lapham +3

Side 6: (Home) lost to Mulgrave CC 64-81

Points: 2. Ladder: Fourth

Best rink: Len O’Brien; Warren Hobson; Ray Payne and Andy Tobler+11

RINK OF THE ROUND:

Side 2: Skip P Wills: +35 (Div 3 Sec 8)

MIDWEEK PENNANT – ROUND 7

Side 1: (Away) lost to Sandringham 43-70

Points: 2. Ladder: Third

Best rink: Les Clement; Gary Farrington; Lorraine Marsden and Eric Marsden: +3

Side 2: (Home) defeated Cranbourne 71-38

Points: 14. Ladder: Top

Best rink: Phil Howard; Craig Lineham; Eric Sydenham and Tim Gray: +24

Side 3: (Away) lost to Chelsea 45-67

Points: 0 Ladder: Fourth

Side 4: (Home) defeated Ferntree Gully 68-43

Points: 14. Ladder: Second

Best rink: Janice Moran; Nola Burdett; Graham Dodd and Tom O’Loughlin: +18

RINK OF THE ROUND:

Side 2: Skip T. Gray +24 (Div 2 Sec 8) - Craig Moore

Parkmore, meanwhile, became the first team to reach five wins in the competition, having made light work of the Saints at home.

The match lasted just 34 overs in total; the Pirates needed just 26 to send the Saints packing for a miserly 64 runs, and completed the chase in eight.

Six Saints were dismissed without scoring, as Ankit Saxena’s brilliant season in blue continued, taking 4/18.

The former Premier Cricket seamer now has 19 wickets at 8.4, fast becoming one of the most lethal bowlers at Turf 2 level, now second for wickets taken.

Avisha Wilwalaarachchi, Satheesh Fernandu and Ammar Bajwa each took two wickets for the home side, with Fernandu crunching 44 in reply to ensure the chase was completed in quick time.

It leaves St Mary’s in outright last place as the only side with one win.

Elsewhere, Cranbourne moved into third, after chasing Narre Warren’s 154 in 37 overs at Casey Fields.

The Magpies were left short of contributors outside of Amila Ratnaike, whose brilliant first summer in black and white continued with a third half-century.

He failed to convert the opportunity into a major score, however, the second wicket for Harsaroup Singh in what was an first-rate spell from the legspinner.

He and Harrison Carlyon formed a difficult spinning tandem for the Magpies to counter, dismissed for 154 in the 39th over with Singh taking 4/56.

Carlyon then made 59 and Dean McDonnell 41, completing the chase in the 37th over. Ruwan Jayaweera took 3/41 for Narre Warren. Match of the round comes to Parkfield Reserve next week when the Bandits welcome HSD to Dunblane Road.

The build up to the 2024 Pakenham Cup on Saturday 21 December is now in full swing. (Rob Carew: 311010)

Narre Warren bowler Len O’Brien takes a closer look at the situation for the Panthers. (Stewart Chambers: 447194)

Parkmore’s Ankit Saxena is enjoying a brilliant start to life as a Pirate. (Rob Carew: 440831)