Rebuilding trust
By Ethan Benedicto
Acting on his innate need to help others and serve the community has been as easy of a decision as wiping sweat off his brow, considering the work that has been done that led to that cherry on top as the City of Casey’s newest mayor.
Stefan Koomen, Waratah Ward councillor and the city’s mayor, was unanimously voted into the position on Tuesday 19 November, making him the first mayor in over four years.
What is - as is the council as a whole - a rather tumultuous position after the dismissal of the former council back in 2020 following an IBAC investigation into corruption, the newest clique in Bunjil Place has been off to a fresh and steady start.
With Stefan’s hands on the helm, even he still sometimes found it hard to believe that he was elected as the mayor, saying that he is still “the same person as last month”.
“Nothing’s really changed, it’s just that now I have an opportunity to have more say, and hopefully create change.
“For me, nothing’s changed, but, in a way a lot’s changed,” he said.
The shock was the biggest thing for Stefan despite it being nearly a month since his election; of course, there is the excitement, of the opportunities that have vested into him to be the voice of the people of Casey.
“For me, being elected as mayor is almost a reflection of the community support that we had around that campaign,” he said.
“It was a unifying campaign that brought a lot of people together.”
The Doveton Pool campaign, one of the more significant and solidifying events of 2024 for Stefan, was all about making residents and locals heard, ensuring that, from their perspective, their problems are not ignored and are very much tangible.
“The older people in the community grew up with the pool, and young families wanted a place for their kids to play in summer,” Koomen explained.
“I was excited about it and really proud of what our community achieved and I think maybe I’m
a reflection of that pride in Doveton and Casey’s suburbs.”
Reflecting on his upbringing, Stefan attributes much of his drive for community work to his parents, where giving back and serving the people,
even through little things, was second nature.
“Growing up, my mum and dad were active volunteers in the community where we lived, dad would mow the church lawns and mum would help run bingo,” he said.
2024 PERSON OF THE YEAR
“Dad was also a soccer coach, so there was always activity - so I think my parents impressed on me the importance of looking out for others and giving back.
“I’ve carried that, I really have and maybe taken it to another level.”
That sense of service led Koomen down many paths, such as his position as the Chair of the Doveton Eumemmering Township Association (DETA), being the Treasurer of the Doveton Show Committee, volunteering as Justice of the Peace in Doveton Library and his work through the Parliament of Victoria as a Senior Electorate Officer.
“I think this role as mayor is, I guess, just another way to help serve the community, maybe at a bigger or broader scale,” he said.
“I’m a big believer that being around other people makes life better, so being part of something has always been at the forefront of my mind.
“I’ve never really played individual sports, I’ve always been in team sports, and I’ve always liked to be part of community groups and have a collective cause, and I think that has always driven me in things that I do.”
However, it wasn’t until the Doveton Pool campaign gained traction in 2022 that he realised the potential for larger-scale impact.
“The campaign gave me the confidence to run for council,” he said.
Continued page 5
Stefan Koomen was unanimously elected by the councillors as the new mayor of the City of Casey at a special meeting in November 2024. (Stewart Chambers: 442356)
A desperate plea
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
Just a piece of paper separates Thanu Mylvaganam from his dreams of marriage, children and buying a home in Australia.
The motivated 31-year-old Tamil asylum seeker in Berwick works long hours, pays taxes, employs workers and has found love with fiancee Sai Dhiruselvam.
All while being denied basic rights as a bridging visa holder for 13 years.
He believes in hard work, loves the great outdoors and tennis and giving back to the community.
“If I have permanent residency, think of how many things I can achieve.
“That permanent visa is the one thing I’ve been waiting for – if I get it, I’m the happiest person in the world.
“I can straightaway buy a house and the second thing is I’d like to marry Sai.”
Instead, the dream is on hold, and the long wait on the outer takes a toll on his mental health. He misses his parents and family in Sri Lanka, who he hasn’t seen for 13 years.
If granted permanent residency in Australia, he’d be able to meet them outside Sri Lanka.
“I just want to see my family anywhere, even if for only one day.”
Thanu is among hundreds of asylum seekers, who last year protested in camps in Oakleigh, Dandenong and Melbourne in a bid for permanent protection.
Their spirited vigils attracted media attention including from Star News, which featured several protestors’ stories in October.
Like Thanu, many were working, studying and aspiring for a better life but frustrated by their uncertain plight.
Thanu was part of the Docklands protest camp, sleeping on the streets for at least 80 of the 100 day vigil and returning once a week to his and Sai’s Berwick unit for sleep.
“We didn’t want to do this protest, we have a lot of work and other things to do.
“Why are we doing this protest? It’s because we need our freedom.
“We’ve spent a lot of time here in limbo while working hard in Australia. We’re part of the community.”
He says the encampment was pressured by City of Melbourne, and attacked by Nazis
“It was dangerous at times,” Sai says. “It was not safe at night – people came down and were harassing and bullying them.”
The protest camps have also been staged at the Oakleigh office of Hotham MP Clare O’Neil when she was Home Affairs Minister, as well as outside Bruce MP and Immigration and Multicultural Affairs Assistant Minister Julian Hill’s office in Dandenong.
Recently the Government passed laws to strengthen powers to remove non-citizens, including bridging visa holders from Australia.
“The Bill sends a strong signal that the Australian Government expects cooperation with removal efforts and facilitates the removal from Australia of an intractable caseload of non-citi-
zens who have exhausted all avenues to remain in Australia,” a spokesperson told Star News.
Hill recently insisted genuine refugees would not be deported.
“(It) deals with a case load of individuals who have had their visa cancelled on character grounds, who often have serious criminal histories.”
In August, Hill stated that “almost 18,000 of the 19,000 Temporary Protection Visa holders in limbo for a decade under the Liberals have now been granted permanent visas”.
“Many others from the Bridging Visa caseload are now also able to apply for permanent protection.
“The legacy of the remaining caseload is complex, and every case is different and needs to be worked through individually.”
Meanwhile, many like Thanu remain effectively stateless, unable to return to their homeland due to fear of persecution and with no permanent refuge in Australia.
Many of them live in Greater Dandenong and Casey.
Thanu knows of asylum seekers who arrived at the same time as him who have been granted RoS visas.
Meanwhile his application has languished. Rejected under the maligned Fast Track process in 2017, and since under appeal.
The Government hasn’t provided any updates on his visa status for five years, he says.
He’s made fruitless personal requests to former Immigration Minister Andrew Giles and other ministers.
“I handed over my letter to him, saying ‘Please sir, do something – I want my life.’
“That’s why I got involved in the protests. I can’t talk with the Minister, I can’t talk with the Prime Minister – I can only do one thing to raise my voice, to get our freedom.”
As a 19 year old, Thanu arrived by boat in Aus-
tralia in 2012 and spent six months in detention centres.
Since his release, he has remained on a bridging visa E.
Settling in Dandenong in 2013, he was initially not allowed work rights.
Living in a house of up to 10 people, he instead studied English language classes, took up chess and relied on food from charities.
Three years later, he gained a work permit. He initially worked on an assembly line by night, office-cleaning jobs by day and since worked casually in various factories up to 16 hours a day.
He’s gained heavy-vehicle and forklift licences, and worked a second job as an Uber driver.
Since then, he’s become a subcontractor, hiring himself and three others to deliver newspapers to Gippsland.
He works seven days a week, with a side hustle delivering Christmas trees last month.
Meanwhile, Malaysian-born Sai arrived in Australia on a temporary student visa, enrolling in a biomedical science course in the hope of gaining permanent residency.
She is interning at St John of God Hospital in Berwick.
“It’s not easy being without family for that long. Even though I visit them every year, it’s tough.
“For Thanu not being able to see his family for 13 years is just bad. I can’t imagine myself in that situation.”
Sai says Thanu now “desperately needs an answer”.
“He deserves a life in Australia because he’s given back. He came here at a very young age, adapted to this lifestyle and been in the community.
“He really needs to start a family. He needs to own a house just like the rest of us.
“If we sent Thanu back to his home country he wouldn’t survive there.”
Body found in Dandenong
Police are investigating after a man’s body was located at a property in Dandenong.
Emergency services were initially called to the McCrae street address shortly before 9.40am on Tuesday, 7 January.
The man, who is yet to be identified, died at the scene. The exact circumstances surrounding his death are yet to be identified and detectives from the Homicide Squad were set to attend. A crime scene was set up.
The exact circumstances including whether the matter is suspicious are yet to be determined.
Anyone who witnessed the incident or with any further information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Funds flow to local council
Thirteen councils and community groups will receive close to $2.4 million, as recipients of AusNet’s Energy Resilience Community Fund Major Grants.
Casey City Council and Baw Baw Shire Council are among the recipients, sharing in almost $150,000 of funding.
Executive General Manager Distribution, Andrew Linnie said the Energy Resilience Community Fund was created by AusNet to fund projects that will build long-term community energy resilience and provide support to communities during the recovery phase of severe weather events.
“These major grant projects will build community energy resilience, delivering important and impactful change to communities across these regions, helping them to stay connected and safe during prolonged outages and emergencies,” said Mr Linnie.
Casey City Council received $63,372 to upgrade three sporting pavilions with shower and power hubs, so they can connect to mobile generators and operate as Emergency Relief Centres.
Those three pavilions are Clyde Recreation Reserve, McNab Recreation Reserve in Cranbourne West and Mick Morland Recreation Reserve in Clyde North.
Baw Baw Shire Council received $75,053 to upgrade five remote community halls so they can connect to mobile generators.
In the Yarra Ranges Shire, the Millgrove Residents Action Group received $277,115 for solar PV, battery storage and an inverter for community infrastructure at the Millwarra Primary School and Millwarra Community Hall.
Sai Dhiruselvam and Thanu Mylvaganam are planning for marriage and a family. (Cam Lucadou-Wells: 452267)
NEWS Shadow cabinet unveiled
By Corey Everitt
New opposition leader and Berwick MP Brad Battin has unveiled his shadow ministry with some of his fellow South East colleagues bumped up for the push to the 2026 election.
Battin unveiled his shadow cabinet on Tuesday 7 January after he took leadership of the opposition from the embattled John Pesutto on Friday 27 December.
“The Liberals and Nationals stand ready to listen, lead, and restore fairness and opportunity for all,” Battin said.
In the mix is Eastern Victoria MP Renee Heath, who will serve as an Assistant Minister for Victims of Family Violence and Multicultural Affairs.
Heath, a supporter of Moira Deeming and one of the five MPs to start the process which saw the defamed MP reinstated to the party room, formerly held a position as Secretary of the Parliamentary Liberal Party.
Heath was dropped from the role on the same day Deeming was expelled from the party room in May 2023.
All five of the MPs who initiated the push for Deeming’s return to the party room in December 2024 retained or were given positions in Battin’s shadow cabinet.
Fellow Eastern Victoria MP Melina Bath, the Leader for The Nationals in the Legislative Council, will take the public land management portfolio in the cabinet; this comes with a trade-off for her previous responsibilities of regional development and local government.
Bath also retained her role as Shadow Minister for Aboriginal Affairs.
South Eastern Metropolitan MP Ann-Marie Hermans lost her spot as Shadow Cabinet Secretary but has been given Shadow Assistant Minis-
‘No
ter Role for Education.
Despite a change in leadership, Narracan MP Wayne Farnham retained his role as assistant minister for the Leader of the Opposition. Farnham also became assistant minister for Planning and the Building Industry.
New role for Battin
It was third time lucky for recently-elected Liberal leader Brad Battin as he set out his priorities and attempts to unite a divided party after toppling
old boss John Pesutto.
The Berwick MP is the fourth opposition leader to stump up to Victoria’s Labor government after ousting Mr Pesutto in a party room meeting that heralded the return of expelled MP Moira Deeming.
Mr Pesutto opted not to run and Mr Battin was elected above Mornington MP Chris Crewther, while opposition financial spokeswoman Jess Wilson’s tilt at the top job failed to pass the first
round of voting.
Former tennis player Sam Groth was elected unopposed as deputy leader, while David Davis was elevated to leader of the upper house, with Evan Mulholland retaining his deputy upper house leader role.
“I’m very thankful for the support I’ve got from my colleagues in the party room today to ensure that we could come out united,” Mr Battin said after the vote on Friday, 27 December.
A former police officer and small business owner, Mr Battin said he was a political outsider who understood what Victorians were going through under Labor.
He nominated the cost of living, crime, budget repair and roads as issues he would focus on over the next 700 days until the state election in November 2026.
“Every time a small business is charged more tax, customers are charged more for the items they buy, increasing the pressures on cost of living in our state,” he told reporters in late December.
“It’ll be our goal to have reduced taxes to release the pressure on businesses across the state.”
Mr Battin pledged to crack down on out-ofcontrol crime in the state, fix “crumbling” regional roads and run smaller governments.
But the new leader was forced to defend his democratically elected leadership group which does not feature women.
“We have got very strong performing women within the partyroom who will be on the frontbench moving forward,” he said.
Mr Battin praised his predecessor as a “great man” and a “stalwart of the party”, vowing to work with him in a united party.
Mr Pesutto congratulated the new leader, vowing to stay on in parliament.
hiding place is safe for offenders’: Dozens arrested
Scores of people – mainly youths – have been arrested by police for armed robberies, aggravated burglaries and car thefts in Melbourne’s South East and East during Christmas-New Year.
Victoria Police say 41 people aged between 12 and 44 have been charged with more than 150 offences in about a week.
The arrests included a 16-year-old boy from Clyde North over a spate of alleged aggravated burglaries, and a collision in an allegedly stolen car just before 3.30am on December 29.
The vehicle struck a home and the front and rear fences, as well as a pergola and two cars.
The boy was charged with two counts of aggravated burglary, one count of attempted aggravated burglary, motor vehicle theft, and conduct endangering life.
He was remanded in police custody before being bailed to reappear in a children’s court at a later date.
Southern Metropolitan Region Acting Superintendent Andrew McKee said police “worked around the clock to keep our community safe” during Christmas-New Year.
“Such a significant number of arrests in such a short time is indicative of just how seriously we take this type of offending.
“A lot of these arrests have occurred under the cover of darkness. While you’re sleeping, police are wide-eyed with members on ground and in the sky – no hiding place is safe for offenders.
“Our message to offenders is clear: if you want to play hide and seek with us, I can guarantee you, our members will always find you.”
In other incidents, four boys aged between 13 and 17 were arrested following an alleged pursuit across the South East on New Year’s Eve.
Air Wing tracked the Audi wagon from Knoxfield to the Eastlink onramp, before it came to a halt just prior to the Cheltenham Road exit at Dandenong after the tyres had been deflated by stop sticks.
Three boys were remanded to appear in a children’s court at a later date, while the 13-year-old was bailed.
On 30 December, a 26-year-old Narre Warren man was arrested by the Greater Dande-
nong Crime Reduction Team over 12 outstanding warrants relating to alleged burglaries, thefts, handling stolen goods and car thefts.
He was remanded to appear in court on 14 January.
Three boys aged 13, 14 and 15 were arrested in Noble Park on 31 December over 15 alleged cigarette motivated armed robberies at service stations and milk bars across Melbourne’s east and southeast nine days earlier.
The two older boys were remanded – one of whom was hit with 19 charges.
On 2 January, a 19-year-old man was tracked by Air Wing allegedly travelling at 220km/h in an allegedly stolen Holden Commodore on the Eastlink in Dandenong about 1am.
Officers successfully used stop sticks and the man subsequently got out of the vehicle and ran into a nearby property on Elizabeth Street in Bayswater.
The teen from Bayswater was located inside and has been charged with reckless conduct endangering life and theft of motor vehicle.
He was been remanded in custody to ap-
pear at the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 3 January.
Four boys aged between 15 and 17 allegedly threatened a rideshare driver on 2 January in Cranbourne East.
The boys were arrested in the vehicle in Officer soon after.
Operation Trinity has been specifically targeting burglars and car thieves each night since March 2023.
As a result of this intense focus, police arrested 673 burglars and car thieves almost 1,550 times over the 12 months to September 2024.
A further 7,350 people have been processed for other offences detected by police working nightshift across the Trinity area of operations.
Over the past week, Southern and Eastern Regional Crime Squads, local investigators, the Crime Reduction Teams (CRTs), Operation Trinity officers and Highway Patrol, who were supported by Police Air Wing and the Dog Squad were deployed.
OPEN DAY 2025
Opposition leader and Berwick MP Brad Battin. (AAP Image/Joel Carrett)
2024 - YEAR IN REVIEW Controversy over lake name
By Ethan Benedicto
Despite unfolding in the latter part of 2024, there is no question that the events that transpired around Guru Nanak Lake, formerly Berwick Springs Lake, have shaken the grounds of the local and wider community.
After what many residents of Berwick Springs considered to be a shock announcement on Saturday 9 November, it wasn’t long before eyebrows were raised on consultation, and if there had been any.
While local MPs and official responses from State authorities and a 2018 release state that the wider Victorian Sikh community had been consulted over a period of two years, as well as approval from Indigenous leaders, residents of the Springs were appalled that they had simply been left out.
The Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Ingrid Stitt, announced $600,000 in funding for Langar celebration events across Victoria, as well as Berwick Springs Lake’s change of name.
“I’m delighted to be recognising the significant contributions of our Sikh community in Victoria by naming a landmark after the founder of the Sikh faith, Guru Nanak,” Stitt said.
Criticisms from the local residents have been strong, with a petition to change the name amassing roughly 700 signatures as of Tuesday 12 November.
That petition, started by local resident Aldonio Ferrera quickly gained traction, amassing roughly 1700 votes by Wednesday 13 November, with 500 in the first 24 hours.
Head petitioner Michael Ball, also a resident and frequent goer of the Lake Walk, has asked the question of, “why” the renaming, and more importantly, “why” the lack of consultation.
“Obviously this has been done without any local community consultation and the residents are frustrated, this is Berwick Springs, the lake is called Berwick Springs and the local area derives its name from the lake,” he said at the time.
The State Government noted at that point that the name Berwick Springs Lake was not a formally recognised name under Geographic Names Victoria, making ‘Berwick Springs Wetland Reserve’ – or lake – essentially serve as an ‘interim’ name for the area.
The change has been more than welcome to members of the Sikh community however, with Dya Singh, a renowned musical figure in the global Sikh community who has lived in Australia for over 45 years and a Casey resident, saying that he is “tremendously proud of the change”.
“The backlash is something we expected, change is something very hard to take, the opposition is there but I hope that in time it will get smoothed over,” he said.
The new name and the turmoils around the lack of community consultation didn’t take long to hit Parliamentary discussions, with the community-wide meeting on Tuesday 19 November organised not long after the renaming/naming.
According to the Hansard from Thursday 14 November, the Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ingrid Stitt, emphasised her initial statement of support for the change.
“Guru Nanak’s message and values of unity, equality and selfless service continue to resonate through the contributions of the Sikh community to all Victorians,” she said.
A Victorian Government spokesperson told Star News that Guru Nanak Lake in Berwick Springs “was identified as a suitable landmark due to its positioning in [Casey], which is home to a large Sikh population”.
“The lake did not previously have an official, gazetted name – this is the first time it has been officially named,” they said in 2024.
However, Stitt’s point was countered by both Berwick MP Brad Battin and the Shadow Minister for Public Transport Matthew Guy, with Guy specifically pointing out the play on politics, the contradiction around barbecues and the Sikh faith.
Nevertheless, consultation remained one of the biggest issues residents have with the renaming, with the relevant naming department addressing key stakeholders such as the Bunurong Land Council, Victorian Multicultural Commission, City of Casey, Melbourne Water, Emergency Management Victoria and Geographic Names Victoria.
On 19 November, the gathering, which was organised by Berwick MP Brad Battin and South Eastern Metropolitan MP Ann-Marie Hermans,
as well as petition heads Michael Ball and Aldonio Ferreira, was attended by over 600 people.
Widespread cheers and claps echoed throughout the streets as the people called for a repeal of the renaming.
Ball said that Berwick Springs is “standing up for all Victorians”.
He remained resolute that due process should have still been followed regarding the renaming of the lake, adding that the state is now trying to “backtrack” on their initial statement of renaming Berwick Springs Lake to Guru Nanak Lake.
In response to the widespread reception of the call for repealing the name, a counter-petition in support of Guru Nanak Lake emerged, gathering around 2,800 signatures by 18 November. Advocates emphasised the importance of embracing multiculturalism and the values Guru Nanak represents, such as love and compassion.
“Regardless of how they’ve done it, whether it’s through Engage Victoria or whatever, they still have to follow the same requirements, they still have to consult us, they still have to have an objections process, an appeals process,” Ball said.
“I feel on their behalf that this is a joyous occasion for them, they should be celebrating what’s happening, and yet the State Government’s created this division just because they didn’t follow their own process.”
Monique Davis, whose family had lived in the Berwick Springs Estate for generations, highlighted the historical significance of the lake’s name
when she addressed the crowd.
Likewise, both Battin and Hermans acknowledged the contributions of the Sikh community to the state, but both argued against naming government assets after religious figures, both emphasising its potential to be divisive.
Events after the gathering took a sharp turn however, with a number of men dressed in black who attended the event confirmed to have been neo-Nazis.
At the time of the meeting, both Battin and Hermans immediately left the meeting once they were notified of the extremists’ attendance, with VicPol quickly arriving on the scene.
Ball denounced the extremists’ participation of the event, adding that they had neither made attempts to communicate their attendance with the Liberal Party nor the residents that organised the event.
Despite this, the conversation once more hit State Government discussions, with Victorian Premier, Jacinta Allan MP on Tuesday 26 November called out the neo-Nazis for their attendance as a move to “stoke division and hate”.
“When you divide communities, you create a void and extremists rush to fill it.
“We on this side of the house [Speaker], we stand with the Sikh community, we recognise the Sikh community, we name Guru Nanak Lake in honour of the Sikh community,” she said.
The Liberal Party, specifically Battin, was targeted by other Labor MPs, including Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards and Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas, for allegedly failing to denounce the neo-Nazis.
Bass MP Jordan Crugnale accused the Liberal Party of enabling hate, highlighting a neo-Nazi post referring to the event as a “Liberal Party Klan rally.”
Battin then defended his position, stating that the protest was never about religion or the Sikh community but solely about the lack of consultation.
Narracan MP Wayne Farnham came to Battin’s defence, accusing Labor of engaging in “grubby politics” to divert attention from their failure to consult residents, which had been the original basis of the community meeting.
As of early December, petitions both supporting and opposing the renaming have garnered thousands of signatures, reflecting a deeply divided community sentiment that has evolved from not informing residents on change.
The debate continues to evoke discussions on the balance between honouring multicultural contributions and ensuring adequate community engagement in decision-making processes.
In a rather tumultuous end of the year for Berwick Springs, the situation remains dynamic, with ongoing dialogues among residents, community leaders, and government officials aimed at addressing the concerns raised and fostering a cohesive resolution.
Residents push back on $3 million place of worship bid
By Ethan Benedicto
A $3 million proposal to develop a new church at 67 Shrives Road, Narre Warren South sparked fierce debate among local residents, with many voicing concerns over traffic congestion, inadequate infrastructure, and the potential disruption to the neighbourhood’s character.
The Immanuel Mar Thoma Church (IMTC), which purchased the property in 2018, sought council approval to build a place of worship for 200 attendees, with 58 designated parking spaces.
However, residents argued that the existing road network was ill-equipped to handle the expected increase in traffic and activity.
Long-time resident Geoff Warner, who has lived in the area for over two decades, expressed concerns over safety and congestion, saying that “Shrives Road is already a danger, especially during peak hours”.
“If they’re going to overflow and park on nature strips, we’ll be stuck.”
Fellow neighbours Mark Sowden and Pierre
Camilleri echoed these concerns, adding that even the current, single-lane conditions make it difficult to navigate the area during busy periods, particularly with the nearby kindergarten in operation.
Residents also raised objections about they said was a lack of consultation and transparency surrounding the project, where in a letter submitted by members of the IMTC’s current congregation in Hampton Park, concerns were raised about the proposal’s capacity, noting that their existing location already struggles with overflow parking.
The letter stated that the proposed project did not account for future growth and that there was a need for a larger site in a commercial zone.
Despite these objections, IMTC building convener Alex Varghese defended the proposal, stating that the church had revised its plans multiple times in response to Casey Council’s feedback.
He explained that initial plans included a parsonage and central parking, but those were
modified to reduce bulk and move the structure closer to Shrives Road.
“We removed the parsonage, shifted the church forward, and adopted the left-in, leftout traffic rule proposed by VicRoads to address congestion,” Varghese said.
Varghese also emphasised the church’s longstanding commitment to community welfare, pointing to initiatives such as blood drives, toy donations, and bushfire relief efforts.
“Our church has always been about giving back to the community, and this new site will help us continue those efforts,” he said.
Additionally, Varghese clarified misconceptions about the frequency of church events, noting that services primarily occur on Sundays and that daily attendance is minimal.
“The busiest days will be Good Friday and Christmas, like any other place of worship,” he added.
While IMTC remains hopeful for a favourable council decision, tensions persist among locals.
A Facebook group titled “No Church here
thank you” had been actively encouraging residents to submit objections before the council’s expected ruling after 29 July 2024.
Warner, who met with council officials alongside other residents, maintained that improvements to Shrives Road, such as footpaths and lane widening, should be prioritised before any development is approved.
“Without proper infrastructure, it’s just too dangerous,” he said.
Despite a traffic report claiming that the development would have minimal impact on Sunday morning traffic, residents remained sceptical, citing the road’s existing issues and lack of pedestrian amenities.
Varghese acknowledged the frustrations but urged residents to direct their concerns to the council, adding that “this isn’t about fighting with the neighbours, it’s about working through the proper process.”
During that waiting process, and as the City of Casey reviewed the proposal, the community remained divided.
Guru Nanak Lake, formerly known as Berwick Springs Lake was the subject of rife discussions that escalated to more dire straits after the attendance of extremists, with the local community still in limbo with the lack of answers. (On File)
2024 - YEAR IN REVIEW
From the campaign trail
By Ethan Benedicto
In the 2024 Casey Council elections, the northern wards of Akoonah, Grevillea, Casuarina, Dillwynia, Waratah, and Kalora witnessed a dynamic electoral race that brought a fresh cohort of councillors into office.
With a diverse range of candidates addressing pressing local issues and tally numbers painting a tight contest in several wards, the elections proved to be a pivotal moment for the region, with candidates eager to showcase their merit after years with no local government.
From revitalisation initiatives to concerns about safety, infrastructure, and governance, candidates who numbered over 40 engaged in spirited campaigns that reflected the community’s priorities.
Akoonah Ward - Responsible governanceCouncillor Scott Dowling
Akoonah Ward saw one of the most closely contested races out of all the northern wards, with early tallies placing Scott Dowling and Samuel Dennison neck and neck, with Dowling later surging ahead.
Both Dianne Pagliuca and Mush Rahaman were on the same boat, both heading strong campaigns that garnered the attention of the locale.
Dowling ultimately secured the ward after a recount, focusing his tenure on fiscal responsibility and community engagement, with his platform resonating with voters seeking better infrastructure, transparent council operations and safety.
Meanwhile, Rahaman, a local business owner, highlighted economic growth and safety, especially the need for better support for small businesses and local recreational spaces.
Dennison had a large focus on the people and a strong sense of community, placing the people first and their concerns in all levels of local concerns from infrastructure to safety.
Candidate Kushal Shah, an engineer, underscored sustainable development and long-term planning, reflecting concerns about overdevelopment. Pagliuca, a long-time resident, advocated for improved public amenities and road safety, positioning herself as a champion for practical local solutions.
Grevillea Ward - Development and preservation - Councillor Dave Perry
In Grevillea Ward, the early results indicated a tight race between John Ternel and Dave Perry, with Perry eventually emerging victorious despite Ternel amassing more first-preference votes.
Perry’s campaign prioritised youth engagement, environmental preservation, and responsible urban development, where he pledged to develop facilities like a pump track for local youth, as well as further amenities for the ageing population as his commitment to fostering community well-being.
Ternel, known for his involvement in community organisations, emphasised public service improvements and infrastructure upgrades, confident in his profession to make an impact at the local government level.
Meanwhile, Stephen Matulec campaigned on transparency and reduced bureaucracy, calling for the council to focus on fundamental governance principles and the reduction of red tape being integral to paving the path to further growth.
Matulec also weighed in on the contentious parking regulations at Fountain Gate Shopping Centre, criticising the perceived prioritisation of corporate interests over residents.
Casuarina Ward - Revitalisation and mental
health support - Councillor Kim Ross
The Casuarina Ward race featured strong campaigns from Kim Ross and Jane Foreman, though from the initial numbers, it was clear that Ross had a strong advantage with her youth-first campaign.
Ross, who was ultimately elected, centred her platform on youth mental health, grassroots engagement, and transparent governance; using her background in psychology, she drew attention to the lack of mental health services and local employment opportunities, particularly for young people - sentiments that echoed strongly with the younger population of Narre Warren.
Foreman spoke on the revitalisation of the Webb Street shopping precinct, advocating for partnerships between local businesses and property owners to enhance the area’s appeal.
Both candidates had expressed concerns over the newly introduced parking regulations at Fountain Gate, with Ross advocating for improved public transport and pedestrian access to reduce traffic pressures.
Dillwynia Ward - Connectivity and community growth - Councillor Anthony Walter
Dillwynia Ward presented significant challenges, considering the ward’s home to Clyde North, candidates addressed issues of poor mobile connectivity, road congestion, and community safety.
Anthony Walter secured the ward after a close contest, campaigning on improved local amenities, better road infrastructure, and family support services.
Champika Hewa Maddumage brought attention to the inadequate mobile coverage in Clyde North, which he argued was not just a factor of inconvenience, but a safety issue.
Gurpreet Gill and Baljinder Dhaliwal echoed concerns about traffic management, stressing the need for proper arterial roads to accommodate the rapidly growing population.
Candidate Jaz Masuta advocated for youth programs and multicultural events, emphasising community cohesion and safety.
However, the eastern ward was also the subject of some of the more tumultuous campaign trails for the north, with disputes between Mastua and Gill reaching evening TV news just weeks before the tallies came in.
Waratah Ward - Safety and revitalisationCouncillor and Mayor Stefan Koomen Waratah Ward’s electoral race was shaped by concerns about crime and the revitalisation of local hubs, with Stefan Koomen, who was later elected mayor, securing the ward by focusing on community engagement and local service enhancement.
Considering his history of service to the community - such as the Save Doveton Pool Campaign - he entered the race with a commanding lead and held that gap until the finale.
The ward also had its share of racial tensions from the public, with candidates like Jamel Kaur Singh and Ezatullah Alam seeing a number of their signs defaced with racist graffiti.
Nevertheless, they, alongside other candidates, made it a focal point of their campaign and pledged to ensure a welcoming community, a chord that struck true with many residents who sought social cohesion.
Kalora Ward - Sustainable development and trust - Councillor and Deputy Mayor Melinda Ambros
In Kalora Ward, Melinda Ambros led a decisive campaign, ultimately winning the seat and later becoming deputy mayor, after, alongside Koomen, being unanimously elected by the council.
Her platform focused on sustainable growth, public amenities, and proactive governance where she highlighted the need for better recreational facilities and local services to reduce social isolation and improve community well-being.
Brian Oates, a former councillor who also ran in the ward, campaigned on ratepayer advocacy and community safety, calling for more accountability in council operations; he also highlighted that if he were to be elected, he wished to serve as a sort of guiding hand for the newcomers and putting his experience to the test.
The ward also witnessed discussions on governance integrity, with candidates ushering the importance of restoring trust in local government following the previous council’s dismissal.
By the same token, the topic of political affiliations was rife in this ward, with Jafri Katagra highlighting the possibilities of dummy candidates; his concerns were countered by fellow candidate Damien Sawyer on the feasibility that this issue is more evident throughout the entirety of Casey, and is not centred in the ward alone.
Overall
Ultimately, the 2024 Casey Council elections were more than just the city’s first political contests in over five years, they were a reflection of the community’s frustrations and hopes for a more representative future. Across the north, candidates addressed key issues with vigour and commitment, eager to play their hand at being the voice of their wards’ people.
With a new cohort of councillors now at the helm, led by Mayor Stefan Koomen and Deputy Mayor Melinda Ambros, the focus shifts to delivering on campaign promises and rebuilding trust in local governance. At the same time, the focus is also on handling the people’s concerns with a level head, ensuring a ‘common sense’ approach that takes into account each party’s factors. The diverse backgrounds and priorities of the elected councillors present an opportunity, not just for the northern wards, but for the whole of Casey to embark on a new chapter—one driven by transparency, accountability, and a deep commitment to the community.
Breaking a four-year gap, Koomen steps up as mayor
From page 1
“I saw what could be achieved when the community rallies together, and I wanted to do more.”
NowattheheadofCasey’scouncil,Koomen’s focus remains on keeping politics grounded and ensuring that every decision is made with the residents’ best interests in mind.
He, alongside the new community leaders, remains rooted in their focus on trust and action, determined to wash away the sins of the past through their own form of service to the people.
“I think it’s important that we focus, on every decision on its own merits,” Koomen said.
“We obviously all have our own values, which is important, but we need to approach every decision just with that focus of what’s the best outcome for residents and the community.
“I haven’t seen politics or party politics into that as an issue, and I don’t foresee that being one; I think the local government’s a little bit unique around that, that we don’t have a lot of involvement with these parties.”
While Koomen said he is transparent on where his political values lie with the Labor party, and that it’s “important we don’t stray from our values”, he is able to discern what is needed by the people from the complexities of party decisions.
With everyone’s feet fresh into 2025, Koomen wants to place an emphasis on community, to take the way how he has been shaped in his time in Doveton, and apply that sense of connection with the people throughout Casey.
“I think connection is a big part of building strong communities, so for me, that could be in the form of events or opportunities to meet with councillors, and really bringing council back to the people,” he said.
“We’re thankful that we’re in our position and we wanna do that work, but then it’s also about rapport with the people, and our job as councillors is just making those connection points.”
Despite his achievements, Koomen had never aimed to be mayor, with his position being one of the “biggest adjusting elements” for him, ensuring that no matter the role, he remained true to himself.
Looking ahead, he remains optimistic about the future, acknowledging that the role, and council as a whole will truly serve its purpose in the midst of the community.
“We have an incredible community here in Casey, and I’m excited about what we can achieve together,” he said.
“It’s not just about what we as councillors can do, but how we can support residents to make Casey an even better place to live.”
Cr Kim Ross with City of Casey CEO Glenn Patterson. (442141)
2024 - YEAR IN REVIEW
Reception calls answered
By Ethan Benedicto
The eastern border and central suburbs of Clyde and Clyde North have been under the thumb of subpar mobile connection since its population began to boom in the late 2010s, however, there was some progress in 2024 where seemingly, the residents’ wishes were finally heard.
The initial report by Star News in 2024 occurred in late February, where once more, the struggles of the lack of reliable connectivity were echoed by the people.
Despite the ongoing roadworks in the area, as well as the constant rise of new homes, Elizabeth Sabelino, who has been living in Clyde North since 2017, was still experiencing reception issues.
“To this day the reception hasn’t gotten any better, from my house I still only have one bar on a good day,” she said in February.
In 2016, Clyde North had a population of 8000 residents, while Clyde had 2000 - both suburbs seeing exponential growth of 288.26 per cent and 427.76 per cent respectively, by 2021.
Previously a communications intern for the Major Transport Infrastructure Authority, Sabelino had instances where she worked from home, an experience she said was made challenging by the lack of proficient cell reception.
“I’ve had to work around by doing WIFI calling but even that doesn’t help that much.
“What I’ve had to do every time there’s a call, I have to go to the front of the house to get better reception,” Sabelino said.
Maree Cullinan, the manager of the Balla Balla Community Centre in Selandra Rise, echoed Ms Sabelino’s sentiments. In February she said that the poor cell reception “isn’t really a selling point for Clyde North”.
“Many people are still working from home, and we have trouble even here, we have to go out of the building just to make calls.
“The one thing we should have access to is good cell reception, especially in this day and age,” Ms Cullinan said.
At that stage, an associate professor from RMIT’s school of engineering, Mark Gregory said that “things like buildings, the terrain and of course, the location of freeways and vehicles, and supermarkets” can impact signal.
While topographically Clyde and Clyde North are relatively flat, Professor Gregory said that the weather is one of many things that “really degrade the signal”.
“In regards to that you’ve got heat, dust, and moisture in the air.
“You mix that in with tall objects like trees, buildings, and hills, you’re going to have a combination of things that are going to affect the signal,” he said.
Fast-forward a month later, there were motions from a local MP, with Holt’s Cassandra Fernando endeavouring to take the needed steps after receiving a sizeable stack of surveys from residents that all said the same thing: they needed better connection.
A stack of over 3000 physical surveys made their home in Holt MP Cassandra Fernando’s office with 2000 more via email after she inquired local citizens on reception issues.
While there was a barrage of complaints and
concerns, the most common factor that was more often mentioned than not was calling triple-0.
“The people, if you look at all these surveys - with the people I’ve spoken to - they can’t call triple-0 and that’s a basic necessity for any person living in this country,” Ms Fernando said.
A total of 10,000 surveys were sent out by the office, which at that point, marked two years since plans around addressing said reception issues began brewing in April 2022.
What began with door-knocking and calling constituents, soon developed further during the pre-polling season when she realised it was a much bigger topic and issue.
“I said to myself and to those people, if I come into government, or as a member for Holt, that was something that was going to be a main focus for me, that these people get the coverage they need,” she said.
The Connecting Victoria campaign and its $56 million Victorian Mobile Project was crucial at this stage - and remains so - which would eventually see 230 places in the state fitted with better mobile infrastructure, and deliver more than 1400 projects by 2026.
Fernando at that point had plans to speak with all relative parties involved in the processes and decision-making surrounding the towers, and when she spoke with Optus, she said that although they are in the planning phase, Optus had ten sites in the works for the surrounding areas.
She also spoke with City of Casey’s CEO Glen Patterson where she emphasised to him that the surveys show “a community need for proper mobile coverage”.
Likewise, she also called for other electorates whose citizens are experiencing reception issues to take action similar to hers, or anything that addresses the issue.
“I’ve faced the issue myself and I think just experiencing it is very important to know these people’s struggles that they have to go through,” she said.
Two months later, some good news finally came.
A Telstra spokesperson told 9News in late April 2024 that three projects were currently underway
as part of the Connecting Victoria Mobile program to improve 4G and 5G connectivity in the local area.
With two new mobile stations and an upgrade for an existing one in the books, the spokesperson said that “Telstra expects to have one new mobile base station in Clyde East constructed during May and operational by the end of June this year”.
Ari Ross, a worker at Clyde North’s Deoro Cafe said “it’s about time”.
“I live just down the road, and I only have one bar in my whole house it’s terrible, so I think it’s about time honestly,” she said.
Her difficulties are well-known and a common sentiment for a majority of residents in Clyde and Clyde North, with Maree Cullinan, executive officer at Balla Balla Community Centre saying that “we agree that community members are very frustrated with the lack of coverage in the area”.
Optus is in the same boat, with three new sites operational in the last year and covering parts of Casey Stadium and Clyde North.
“We are working hard to bring residents of Casey improved mobile coverage,” an Optus spokesperson said.
“Optus is working on an additional eight towers in the area - seven of these are part of the Connecting Victoria Mobile Program to improve mobile connectivity in Clyde, including Clyde North, Cranbourne, Berwick and Hallam.”
Provided to 9News also at that same time frame, a Casey Council spokesperson said that they were working closely with the State Government and telecommunications providers in order to address the infrastructure and servicing gaps throughout the municipality, especially for Clyde and Clyde North.
“A total of two mobile towers (and one broadband solution) and four mobile towers have been identified to be delivered and service Clyde and Clyde North, with several of these towers already being delivered or having received relevant approvals before construction.
“Casey has issued 12 planning permits for new towers in the last year, six of which are all in Clyde/ Clyde North,” the spokesperson said.
Three months passed and the first Telstra tower
in Clyde North was finally installed on Thursday 25 July.
It is situated in the corner of Ramlegh Reserve, with Michael Galea MP addressing the 31 July legislative assembly meeting where he called on the Minister for Government Services for further development following the installation.
Then just two months later, a bigger step was taken when the Peri-Urban Mobile Project was officially announced in Clyde on Thursday 24 October.
Also known as PUMP, the project will have two towers in the Holt electorate, one in Clyde and another in Blind Bight to open in 2025, with a grand total of 12 for the growing suburbs in Casey.
Attended by Federal Minister for Communications Michelle Rowland, she said that “this is absolutely essential for every resident, everyone relies on connectivity; the people who are working from home, the students, and for accessing emergency services”.
“This is no longer a society where we rely on landlines, there would be a huge percentage of people here who would either wouldn’t be using a landline or wouldn’t know what their landline number even is,” she said.
Also in attendance were Holt MP Cassandra Fernando, Waveconn CEO Grant Stevenson, National Growth Alliance CEO Bronwen Clark and Stockland Estate representatives.
Then, with Christmas coming early and marking the second instalment of 2024, the tower at 36 Bells Road in Clyde marked what looks to be a rather steady journey for reception upgrades in Clyde and Clyde North.
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.
From left to right: Grant Stevenson (Waveconn CEO), Bronwen Clark (National Growth Areas Alliance CEO), Holt MP Cassandra Fernando, Federal Minister for Communications Michelle Rowland and a Stockland Estates representative. (Ethan Benedicto: 440787)
2024 - YEAR IN REVIEW
Landfills dominate agenda
By Violet Li
Waste management continued to haunt large parts of Casey in 2024. It was another year for locals to monitor and scrutinise the waste businesses and fight for the right to breathe fresh air free from tip smells.
Stevensons Brothers Industries (SBI) landfill Down in the south of Casey, Stevensons Brothers Industries (SBI) landfill remained a headache for the surrounding communities.
February was met with a surge of odour incident reports in the vicinity, which residents believed could be attributed to the landfill.
A proposed planning permit amendment of the landfill surfaced in March and caused great concerns among the community. Locals told the paper they were concerned that the amendment would lead to increased traffic, dust, and diversion of stormwater to the nearby residential areas. The amendment document also revealed that the operator removed about half a hectare of native vegetation, allegedly without the authorised permits, during the past three years.
In July, the landfill faced nearly $20,000 in fines from the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) Victoria after drone flights over its Ballarto Road Cranbourne site revealed inadequately covered waste in its landfill cells.
A week after, EPA Victoria announced that it settled separate legal action against the landfill “for the benefit of the community”. It said that the landfill would pay $200,000 for a project to improve the local environment and ensure company directors and key staff undergo further training.
The State’s environment watchdog commenced proceedings in the Supreme Court against SBI and its directors on 4 August 2023, which the EPA stated that if proven could result in penalties exceeding $1.8 million for SBI and $360,000 for directors per allegation.
Local residents strongly criticised the settlement, underwhelmed and disappointed by the outcome. A spokesperson from the community said that after nearly two and a half years “of suffering the environmental crime inflicted upon us, many residents have seen no option but to leave the area”.
“Feeling forced from their homes to get clean air and alleviating suspected health impacts, therefore we feel the penalty is not proportional,” they said.
Hallam Road landfill
A leachate leak from the Hallam Road landfill was discovered in late November and an estimated one hectare of vegetation died in the neighbouring property.
The Anderson family, who owns the land on the east side of the landfill, was notified by the landfill operator Veolia about a burst of a leachate pipeline along the southeast side of the land-
fill. Then they found out the vegetation along the boundary had visibly died and a stinking smell remained in the air. The family was not happy about the latest leachate incident and believed the operator should have installed the pipework in such a way that leachate was contained to their property. A Veolia spokesperson at the time said following the repair of the pipe on the same day, they “commenced an urgent investigation into what caused this one-off event, and we began to assess the neighbouring property”. They added: “There was no harm caused to people and preparation works to fully clean up and remediate the affected area are underway.”
Proposed Hampton Park Waste Transfer Station
For Casey locals, 2024 started with the official lodgment of the planning permit for a $27m commercial waste transfer station next to the controversial Hallam Road landfill and ended with
approval by Casey Council, shortly before the elected council. The proposed facility by landfill operator Veolia will be located approximately 250 metres from the nearest residential dwelling, and it is set to accept about 550,000 tonnes of municipal residual waste, construction and demolition waste, and commercial and industrial waste from Melbourne’s south-east.
The application was met with strong objections from the community with concerns about fire risks, midnight noise, and increased traffic, dust, and odour. Residents were especially concerned about the track records of the operator as odour from their landfill had been troubling the community for years.
They said they were left devastated, disappointed and angered after Casey Council approved the development.
EPA is assessing a development licence application by Veolia, a separate process from the planning permit application submitted to the council. Its five-week community consultation received more than 600 submissions and residents were told a consultation conference would be held in 2025 to gather more views and recommendations for the licence assessment.
SBI landfill. (289985)
Hallam Road landfill by Veolia. (348748)
2024 - YEAR IN REVIEW
Like many years before, 2024 saw Berwick and the whole City of Casey packed with stories with some headlines and front pages garnering more attention. Below are some of the most impactful front pages that was featured throughout the last year in Berwick Star News.
Best front pages of 2024
Viking Vela joins fleet
LEE MCCARTHY
Viking have proudly announced it has taken delivery of the company’s newest ocean ship, the Viking Vela.
Classified as a small ship, as are all Viking ocean ships, the Viking Vela has 499 staterooms that can host 998 guests.
Viking Chairman and CEO Torstein Hagen said the Viking Vela joins the company’s growing fleet of award-winning ocean ships and will spend her inaugural season sailing itineraries in the Mediterranean and in Northern Europe.
“We are proud to welcome the newest sister ship to our award-winning ocean fleet,” he said.
“Together with our partner Fincantieri, we have built the world’s most elegant small ocean ships.”
“With the arrival of our newest vessel, we look forward to introducing even more curious travellers to the Viking way of |exploration.”
He said Viking was working on a project for a partial hybrid propulsion system for future ocean ships based on liquid hydrogen and fuel cells, which could allow the company to operate at zero-emission in the Norwegian Fjords and other sensitive environments.
While the Viking Vela has a traditional propulsion platform, she is considered hydrogen-ready and can be retrofitted in the future.
The delivery ceremony took place when the ship was presented at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Ancona, Italy.
The naming of the Viking Vela also served as a celebration of Viking’s longtime partnership with Fincantieri, which is one of the world’s largest shipbuilding groups and is based in Trieste.
With its rich maritime history, Trieste is considered the endpoint to the maritime Silk Road and is now Italy’s most important commercial port.
“With Fincantieri as our partner, we believe we have built the world’s most elegant fleet of small ocean ships,”
“We thank Ivana Elice for being the godmother of the Viking Vela. In her role at Fincantieri, she has cared for our ocean ships during their construction just as a godmother would, and we are very appreciative of her contributions as a member of the extended Viking family.”
The Viking Vela is the newest ship in Viking’s award-winning ocean fleet of sister ships. Classified as a small ship, as are all Viking ocean ships, theVikingVelahasagrosstonnageof54,300tons, with 499 staterooms that can host 998 guests; the ships feature all veranda staterooms, elegant Scandinavian design, light-filled public spaces and abundant al fresco dining options.
The Viking Vela will spend her inaugural season sailing itineraries during the “quiet season” intheMediterraneanbeforecontinuingtoNorthern Europe.
The delivery of the Viking Vela follows a string of recent accolades for the company.
Viking was rated number one Oceans, Rivers and Expeditions by Conde Nast Traveler in the 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards for the second consecutive year.
This achievement marked the first time a travel company won these three categories in backto-back years.
Viking was also named Best Luxury Line, Best
Line for Couples and Best Line in the Mediterranean in US.
News and World Report’s 2025 Best Cruise Lines ranking for the fourth consecutive year. Viking’s ocean ships have been rated and “Recommended” as part of the Forbes Travel Guide 2024 Star Awards, an annual independent evaluation for luxury travel brands.
Additionally, Viking received seven awards at the 2023 Cruise Critic Editors’ Picks Awards — more than any other line — acrosstheluxury,riverandexpeditioncategories. For further information and cruise information please visit website viking.com or phone Reservations (AU) 138 747.
Viking proudly accepted their newest Ocean Cruise Ship, Viking Vela with 499 staterooms that can host 998 guests.
Norwegian singer Sissel Kyrkjebø, one of the world’s leading crossover sopranos and godmother of the Viking Jupiter, and acclaimed Italian opera singer Alessandro Safina, perform at the naming ceremony of the Viking Vela.
Karine Hagen, Viking Executive Vice President of Product, Torstein Hagen CEO of Viking with Ivana Elice, godmother of the Viking Vela and Ann Ziff, godmother of the Viking Saturn.
The exceptional Viking Orion
I was recently extended an invitation to take a ships tour of the stunning Viking Orion docked at Pinkenba Port during an overnight stop in Brisbane.
The Viking Orion was on day 79 of a one-way cruise from Vancouver to Sydney and we were lucky enough to embark during its stopover.
With less than a thousand guests the Orion appeals to the over sixty age group who enjoy retrospective camaraderie and a comfortable dynamic with like-minded guests.
The tour was warm, welcoming, and professional and the ship charming and impossibly perfect.
There’s a whisper across the ship of understated elegance with an abundance of class.
Before you even board the Viking Orion, the passengers you pass disembarking for a day onshore are generous with their smiles and greetings, giving you a sense of what is to come.
From the first step into the heart of the atrium, standing beside the gleaming black grand piano and looking upwards to the ascending staircase you notice the lush seating, the wealth of tasteful art works, unique flooring, and a mood of comfort.
The atrium bar boasts soft blue and grey floral emblems on each bar stool, a nod to Norway’s traditional style of decorative floral painting that originated in the rural valleys of Norway.
When we arrive, the bar is quiet with guests reading or relaxing, but you can imagine the laughter and conversation along with the clink of glasses and muted music from the lacquered ebony piano as the guests return to the ship for a night’s beverage and the chance to swap stories and enjoy others company.
The Scandinavian themed veranda staterooms with ocean views continue the show off the ship’s minimalism and use of space with crispy linen, monogrammed throws, and classic decor.
The full-size bathroom with heated floors, fluffy quality towels and sufficient wardrobe blended into the panelling inside the stylish main bedroom add to the clever design.
Another highlight harking back to its origins
is the Nordic Spa which has been designed based on the Scandinavian wellness principles of hot and cold. Set next to the fitness centre, the spa features everything you would now expect from Viking with heated beds, sauna, multi jet spas and comfortable lounging chairs along with the world’s first Snow Grotto at sea.
There are eight dining options with exciting menus and equally exciting bar areas including the dimly lit and luxurious Speakeasy 1940’s
cocktail bar which transports you to anywhere in the world in your imagination.
Manfredi’s and the fine dining Chef’s Table menu change every three days and there is the option to enjoy a casual meal and dessert from the World Cafe or Mamsen’s.
Wine and beer with lunch and dinner is included in the cruise fare for all guests. The beverage package is optional and allows for premium wine, beer and spirit selections.
I was buoyed to see the selection of quality books in the library and in sitting areas where writing your memoir or next best seller would be appropriate.
The library is curated by Heywood Hill of Notting Hill in London. The selections are different on every ship as the libraries are destination focused.
The pools are surrounded by decadent lounges, with glorious when sailing and a retractable roof to accommodate guests’ enjoyment of the space if the weather is less forgiving.
Naturally, waiters are on hand to deliver cocktails and coffees to grateful recipients.
There are no gimmicks, no dress ups with smart casual the dining dress code relieving guests of the need to conform or compete.
There are too many special features and purposeful design touches to mention however it is fair to say the Founder and Chairman of Viking, Torstein Hagen has had a hand in every aspect of the Viking Cruise success.
It is resplendent example of craftsmanship and attention to detail with guests’ comfort at the forefront of every inch of the ship.
Ten out of ten from me.
For further information please visit www.viking.com or for reservations call (AU) 138 747.
Roomy and well designed, the staterooms and suites are designed for maximum comfort including a bathroom with heated floors and perfect sea views from the balcony.
The luxurious theatre on deck two beside both cinema’s and bar adds to the easy decadence of your Viking cruise.
Few things are as relaxing as a coffee, cocktail or a dip here at the sparkling clean Infinity Pool overlooking the ocean on Viking Orion.
The stunning Viking Orion Atrium boasts a mix of attention to detail, simple lines and luxurious comfort.
LEE MCCARTHY
"Exploration is really the essence of the human spirit."
FRANK B.
EXPL RER
Sailing to all seven continents, the whole world awaits
Discovering another culture is a wondrous awakening. Sail with us to extraordinary shores where you can immerse yourself in new destinations and unique experiences.
Whether by river or ocean, we have crafted unforgettable journeys across all seven continents so you can explore more of the world.
Enjoy free flight offers with selected river, ocean or expedition voyages, valued up to AU$2,400 per person. Plus AU$500 shipboard credit with any ocean and expedition booking. Available for a limited time only, offers end 31 March 2025.
Pedy including Nitmiluk Gorge Cruise
ï Station to hotel transfers included in Darwin and Adelaide
Hotel Stays
ï 3 night four-star stay in Darwin at the Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront
ï 3 night four-star stay in Adelaide at the Vibe Hotel Adelaide
ï All hotel stays include breakfast
Tours
ï Charles Darwin Harbour Dinner Cruise
ï Barossa and Hahndorf highlights tour
All Flights and Taxes
Your holiday includes
All-Inclusive Rail Journey
ï 3 night all-inclusive rail journey on board the Indian Pacific from Sydney to Perth with all meals, fine wines, and beverages
ï Off Train Experience and short stop in Broken Hill, Adelaide, Cook and Rawlinna
Hotel Stay
ï 5 night four-star stay in Perth at the Crowne Plaza Perth, an IHG Hotel with breakfast
Tours
ï Discover Rottnest Island tour including ferry transfer and Swan River Cruise
ï Half Day Perth & Fremantle Tour
ï 48 hour Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Pass
All Flights, Taxes and Transfers+
2024 - YEAR IN REVIEW
With many stories also come a wide range of photos, with this page featuring those gems that caught not just the photographers’ eyes, but also the readers’.
Berwick through a lens
Mitchell Coffey at the Wood Chop competition. (Gary Sissons: 390798)
A 20-year bloom. Berwick Orchid Club President Murray Harding with a once-in-20-year bumper bloom of Dendrobium Speciosum. (Rob Carew: 430835)
Arnold Dix with Noel Sullivan. (Stewart Chambers: 423090)
From left to right: Harrison, Chad, Jax and Paige. (Stewart Chambers: 420949)
The last rays of sunshine. (Rob Carew: 392215)
The team from AusNet. From left, Zack Aloisio, Kathy Burgstahler (from Pakenham), Sharon Beach, Mina Awadalla, with Royal Gala Apples. (Rob Carew: 389434)
John McGreal has plenty of spring in his step for the start of the charity walk. (Stewart Chambers: 395691)
The ANZAC ceremony at Berwick High Street began with a march. (Ljubica Vrankovic: 403395)
From left to right: Carlie (Bunyip) and Nadeesha (Sri Lanka) trying the virtual reality area. (Stewart Chambers: 425484)
Kid-Tastic Fridays brings fun to Southside Racing
This January, Southside Racing Pakenham is rolling out the ultimate summer family experience with Kid-Tastic Fridays. On 10 and 17 January, the racecourse will transform into a hub of excitement, promising fun for kids and adults alike. With free entry for kids under 17 and adults paying just $10, it’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy an action-packed day. Little ones can delight in face painting, pony rides, an animal farm, and kite flying. Thrill-seekers will love the scrambler ride, soccer darts, and on 17 January, dodgem cars will add to the excitement.
Got a group of mates? We’ve got fantastic Mini Marquee options to accommodate you - the perfect way to enjoy the festivities together in style!
While the kids play, adults can enjoy the atmosphere of live racing action and indulge in delicious offerings from a variety of food trucks. It’s the perfect chance to create lasting family memories, all while soaking up the summer vibes.
Mark your calendars and get ready for two unforgettable Fridays - because at Southside Racing Pakenham, fun is always on the agenda.
Kid-Tastic Fridays bring family fun to Southside Racing Pakenham.
2024 - YEAR IN REVIEW
What they said in 2024
“Theloveliestthingabouttheawardistheamount of people that we haven’t heard of for years who have seen it in the paper or heard about it, and they’ve rang up and congratulated us. You don’t look for congratulations, but it’s nice to get them.” - Lindsay Tharle, the OAM 2024 recipient, talks about receiving the award.
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“It was not a very smooth life, but I think we met the right people. When I sent my son to that school, the principal offered me a job because they knew my previous learning. They also gave my son a scholarship. We struggled and we worked hard to pay for things. I once even delivered the Star’s papers.” - Vineetha Wijesuriya, Finalist of Citizen of the Year in the Casey Community Awards 2024, reflects on her immigration to Australia.
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“In many cases, ministers don’t have freedom because they’re restricted by the orthodoxy at their organisations. I like the freedom that you have to be able to respond to different needs in different ways. And I think I’ve always been able to do that, as a minister. I also like the opportunity that it gives you to enter the lives of people, who otherwise wouldn’t be open to you. As a minister, people are accepting and well welcoming. And there’s a general level of accepting of a minister in the community, and I’ve always enjoyed that freedom.” - Former Hampton Park Uniting Church’s minister, Reverend Frederic Holland, talks about what he likes the most about being a minister in his retirement.
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“I spent 50 years without a bike. Because my father was dead against me having a motorbike,
and when I lost my licence, he said that maybe you should sell it and get rid of it. And then I got married and had family and grandchildren. Then I retired last year and had nothing to do. My wife said, well, you know, go and buy yourself a bike. Good idea, and this is great. I love coming along here and just talking to anyone and just talking rubbish.” - Max, a member of the Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club (VJMC) Mornington Peninsula group, tells his story with motorbikes and with the club.
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“Everything in council is bureaucracy. There is no logic. There is no simple way of doing things. They put blocks in my way. I’ve had to find ways around the blocks that they create. It shouldn’t be so difficult. The council lacks decision-making. They won’t make decisions because they’re afraid to take risks or afraid to do things.” - Tom Kapitany, a candidate for the 2024 Casey Council October Election, talks about why he decided to run.
***
“I gave it to the tribespeople, and they quickly fiddle around with these beautiful things hanging in their ears. To take them there it’s not like just getting a taxi, you have to go on a canoe for weeks through the jungles. You’ll often stop at gunpoint. It’s like a Rambo movie in the sense when you go down the river. Because it’s like in the middle of nowhere, and the middle of nowhere requires special transportation. I have been threatened twice, but I was so passionate to do it again and again.” - Vince Manna, a Keysborough craftsman for the past 50 years, talks about him making the snakewood into earrings in Melbourne and taking them to where he found the wood in the Amazon region of South America.
21 years of Rockn’ Suzies dance classes
By Rockn’ Suzie
Rockn’ Suzies dance classes have turned 21 years ... And I still love teaching people how to dance. I believe that Rock and Roll is one of the easiest of the dance styles to master as it allows for lots of individuality.
My classes are designed to be fun and easy to follow for those aged 10 upwards. Dancing is great for fitness, co-ordination, balance and memory, and many people form great friendships through the classes.
I teach in Pakenham and Cranbourne.
The Pakenham class is held in the hall where the library is, corner of John and Henry Streets. The Cranbourne class is held at the Senior Citi-
zen’s Hall corner of Codrington Street and the South Gippsland Highway.
Both of the nights have beginner and advanced rock ‘n’ roll classes open to all with no partner required.
Between classes some of the popular line dances are taught as well.
Rockn’ Suzies also runs a monthly charity dance at the Pakenham Hall which has been running for 20 years now.
A different band plays each month which everyone in the community is welcome and encouraged to attend .
· For information call Sue on 5940 9791 or 0400 216 670.
Lavinia (left) and Lindsay Tharle, the OAM 2024 recipients. (385346)
Tom Kapitany, a candidate for the 2024 Casey Council October Election. (Supplied)
Vineetha Wijesuriya, finalist of Citizen of the Year in the Casey Community Awards 2024. 389390
Rev Ric Holland Minister at Hampton Park Uniting Church speaks at his retirement. (390737)
Rockn’ Suzies dance classes have been going for 21 years.
2024 - YEAR IN REVIEW SEMMA backed nuclear
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
South East manufacturers emphatically backed nuclear energy, according to a peak-body members survey in July.
Of more than 190 South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance (SEMMA) surveyed members, 71 per cent were strongly in favour of including nuclear power into the energy mix.
Also, 61 per cent strongly agreed that nuclear was a cost-effective and reliable energy source for manufacturers, and 66 per cent had a “strongly positive” opinion of the energy source for industry.
About 14 per cent of members were strongly opposed to the propositions.
The results put SEMMA and its members firmly in favour of the federal Liberal-Nationals Coalition’s proposal for nuclear generators across the country, including the La Trobe Valley in Gippsland.
The idea has been strongly opposed by the Labor state and federal governments.
Back in July 2024, SEMMA president Peter Angelico said “the nuclear option has merit when we are talking about a long-term zero-emission consistent energy supply”.
“Globally, there are 32 countries using nuclear power (a total of 440 reactors) and many have successfully combined these energy inputs, solved waste concerns and ensured an efficient, consistent, cost-effective, safe and sustainable energy supply for everyone.
“Australia must move forward in our energy choices to remain globally competitive for the sake of our manufacturing industry that currently employs 803,000 nationally.”
SEMMA chief executive Honi Walker said manufacturing needed a “consistent, reliable baseload energy supply”.
“That is in danger if policy makers ignore this fact,” Ms Walker said in July 2024.
Ms Walker said there was not enough renewable energy in the current system to support manufacturing – or domestic users.
“Renewables can provide part of that supply, but it is an intermittent supply and batteries do not generate energy – they only store it.”
Gas needed to remain in the system for manufacturing during the transition, she said.
In July 2024, Bruce Labor MP Julian Hill said
nuclear energy was “way too expensive and far too slow for Australia’s needs”.
“Multiple independent scientific reports have confirmed that even if anyone was crazy enough to decide to go down the risky nuclear route, it would take almost two decades for nuclear power to come on in Australia, costing $25,000 or more per taxpayer.”
He said the Federal Government was delivering “cheaper, cleaner energy right now, utilising our abundant natural resources – literally the
best renewable energy resources anywhere in the world”.
“In just two years, the government has ticked off new renewable energy supply equivalent to over eight expensive risky nuclear reactors.”
Mr Hill agreed that gas was needed in manufacturing for “high heat applications”.
“(It) will help us move up the value chain for growing industries like critical minerals.”
La Trobe Liberal MP Jason Wood, who for a long time opposed nuclear, in July 2024 said it’s required “in the mix“ for Australia to reach netzero emissions by 2050.
He said when 90 per cent of coal power stations go off line over the next decade or so, a power combination of “wind and solar“ wasn’t reliable in all weather and all seasons.
“I fully support the solar and the wind (industries) but you have to have something humming along in the background when there’s no sun or wind.“
SEMMA chief executive Honi Walker called for a reliable baseload power supply for manufacturers.
SEMMA president Peter Angelico said the nuclear option had merit. (Supplied)
Precocious talent in DDCA
By Marcus Uhe
Nine rounds into the Dandenong District Cricket Association season, it’s time to forecast the end of year’s awards ceremony.
With names like Jawid Khan, Mark Cooper and Alex Cruickshank not returning to the DDCA’s Turf 1 competition this summer, there are vacancies aplenty from last summer’s best XI.
The batters largely picked themselves, while the bowling group was tougher to select.
A handful of Bloods can consider themselves desperatelyunlucky,suchasJoshDowling(second for wickets), Cam Fosyth (fifth for runs averaging 64) and Nick Boland (fourth for wickets amongst seamers) but selection is a cut-throat business.
Despite sitting atop the Turf 1 ladder, Buckley Ridges has only one selection - typical of a side chock-full of different contributors on a week-toweek basis.
THE LOCKS
Mitch Forsyth - Springvale South. 326 runs at 54.3, 4x50s.
Forsyth has been the best opening batter in the competition this summer, enjoying one of his best patches of form in years.
Last summer he made 234 runs at 23.4, meaning he has already surpassed that mark with five rounds to play.
Missing opening partner Ryan Quirk for the duration of the summer thus far, Forsyth has thrived with the added responsibility at the top of the order and is a key contributor to the Bloods’ early season success.
He’s passed 50 more times than he hasn’t, making him an easy selection.
Damith Perera - Hallam Kalora Park. 327 runs at 46.7, 2x 50s, 1x 100.
One of the biggest success stories of the summer.
The Hawks knew they needed to regenerate their list with Matthew Cox and Ciaron Connolly not returning to the nest, and Perera has been the ideal fit as a wicketkeeper batter
He top scored in a loss to Berwick when the next highest score was 25 and validated the faith in his first two-day contest with an excellent century against North Dandenong, before a vital 86 against Buckley Ridges just before the Christmas break.
With the gloves, meanwhile, he’s hardly missed a beat, ranking second for dismissals with 10 catches and one stumping.
Michael Wallace (c) - Berwick. 341 runs at 68.2, 2x 50s, 1x 100s.
The potential final piece to a Berwick premiership puzzle.
Returning to his junior club, the Bears could hardly have asked for anything more out of the former Casey-South Melbourne skipper in his first season at Arch Brown Reserve.
He has scores of 60 and 69 against two of the best bowling attacks in the competition, in Springvale South and Hallam Kalora Park, respectively, a century against Dandenong West and a vital 43 in trying conditions in a one-day contest against Beaconsfield.
Wallace is an all-round class act and would slot into the middle order of any side.
He and Perera at four three respectively will provide pesky left-right hand combinations with the opening partners.
Ishan Jayarathna - Buckley Ridges. 23 wickets at 9.86, 3x 5 wicket hauls.
Jayarathna with the new ball has fast become one of the competition’s most feared prospects.
Already one of the quickest bowlers in Turf cricket and with the ability to make the ball move, Jayarathna has been the most successful bowler in the competition by some distance to round 10.
He has three six-wicket hauls, kept his average below 10 and in five matches he has struck in the first over of the innings - against North Dandenong in round six, he did it twice.
Yet to take off with the bat, the prospect of him at full-flight is a scary one for Turf 1 opponents. His form will be as critical as any in the run home.
Nuwan Kulasekara - Dandenong West. 15 wickets at 19.2, 175 runs at 29.1.
If Dandenong West had any chance of solidifying its reputation and legitimacy in Turf 1, the former Sri Lankan veteran was going to be a key contributor.
And he has not let Anthony Brannan down. With scalps like Wallace, Jeevan Mendis and Matthew Hague to his name, his ability to remove the big names on opposition scorecards has been of critical importance to the Bulls’ form. Kulasekara has played match-defining roles in four of his side’s first five games and was vitally important in
the Bulls’ wins over Berwick and Narre South.
Wickets in consecutive balls against the Bears swung that contest on its head in round two, removing Wallace and Jordan Cleland upon returning to the bowling crease, before vital runs late in the card injected life into a dwindling chase.
His wicketless performances, against Hallam Kalora Park and Buckley Ridges, meanwhile, resulted in losses, stressing his importance to the Bulls’ attack.
Jordan Wyatt - Springvale South. 348 runs at 49.7, 2x 50s, 1x100.
There’s only one man with a century against Buckley Ridges this summer and that’s a man that has tormented the Bucks in recent seasons.
Wyatt is in the midst of another summer with a strike rate above 100 and remains as deathly a proposition to bowl to as anyone in the DDCA.
He can score to all areas of the ground and punish attacks for even the smallest of errors, often leaving bowling attacks helpless and lost for answers.
It has been in one-day cricket where he has got his side off to excellent starts, immediately forcing teams onto the back foot and, as he did against North Dandenong and Beaconsfield, relieving the pressure from teammates’ shoulders.
THE REST
Mahela Udawatte - Hallam Kalora Park. 290 runs at 41.4, 4x50s.
His average and run total does not hit the heights of his contenders but if selecting was purely based on numbers, this would be a moot exercise.
Where Udawatte has shone has been under pressure, and in his Hawks’ most significant results; 52 in a win against Springvale South when no other batter that day passed 50, 83 in a narrow seven-run win over Dandenong West, and 84 against Buckley Ridges, when the Hawks were fighting to survival at 3/26.
There would not be a single bowling attack in the DDCA that would like to see this man come to the wicket in the middle order.
Ashan Madhushanka - Beaconsfield. 16 wickets at 14.4. 211 runs at 30, 1x50.
Some may have thought the day would never come that Jarryd Straker would be unseated from the lead spinner’s role in a Turf 1 representative side, but Madhushanka has removed the Springvale South tweaker temporarily from his post.
Madhushanka has been vitally important to the Tigers’ side this summer as one of only two bowlers with a wicket tally in double figures.
He shone in the shorter format of the game, taking 11 wickets in the first four outings as a dangerous spinner with difficult to pick variety.
Plenty has fallen to his shoulders for the Tigers this season and he has seldom let his side down.
Jarryd Straker - Springvale South. 16 wickets at 17.3.
Okay, the selection panel couldn’t quite leave him out entirely.
He might not be the standout spinner to this point in the summer but some of his figures make for exceptional reading - 4/63 from 20 Park Oval overs in a win over Buckley Ridges, 2/1 from six overs against in a one-day contest North Dandenong, 4/28 from 12 overs with the white ball against Beaconsfield.
He and Madhushanka are tied with North Dandenong’s Charith Keerthsinghe as the three leading spinners, with the Maroons tweaker unlucky to be bypassed at this selection meeting.
Matthew Hague - Berwick. 238 runs at 34, 3x 50s.
While Hague has been somewhat feast or famine this season (three half-centuries and two ducks in seven innings), two of his half-centuries came at vital periods for his side.
He gutted out a match-winning 64 against Beaconsfield and was the only batter to find a way through the Dandenong West attack in round two,
making 67 when his teammates around him failed to fire.
Coupled with baron runs for his contemporaries across the division, his selection becomes a straight-forward choice.
His teammate, Jarryd Wills, is the next highest runscorer among openers, but has been shifted to the middle order for two-day matches.
With the patient Forsyth at the other end, the dashing and attacking Hague makes for an ideal foil at the top of the order.
James Trodd - Berwick. 14 wickets at 24, 1x5 wicket haul.
Trodd has wasted no time in stamping his authority as one of the quickest bowlers in Turf 1.
The Englishman offers a point-of-difference as a left-armer and will be a handful when paired with Jayarathna.
This selection was a toss-up and he has been more expensive than some of the others to miss out, in Josh Dowling and Nick Boland but his ability to adapt to new conditions in a new country has given him the edge.
He has taken wickets in every game this summer with his best figures, 5/41 against Beaconsfield, crucial in helping the Bears notch an opening win of the summer in a tight contest back in round six.
TURF 1 MID-SEASON XI
· Mitch Forsyth Springvale South
· Matthew Hague Berwick
· Jordan Wyatt Springvale South
· Michael Wallace Berwick
· Damith Perera (wk) Hallam Kalora Park
· Mahela Udawatte Hallam Kalora Park
· Ashan Madhushanka Beaconsfield
· Ishan Jayarathna Buckley Ridges
· Nuwan Kulasekara Dandenong West
· James Trodd Berwick
· Jarryd Straker Springvale South
Mitchell Forsyth is enjoying his best summer for Springvale South. (385391)Beaconsfield’s Ashan Madhushanka has been one of the competition’s best spinners. (389336)
Buckley Ridges quick Ishan Jayarathna was one of the first picked for this team. (Rob Carew: 447930)
Nickers no longer in a twist
By David Nagel
The Pakenham training partnership of Peter Moody and Katherine Coleman may finally have got a handle on their four-year-old mare Mollynickers after her first win since her two-year-old days at Geelong on Saturday.
A grinding come-from-behind victory in the $100,000 BM84 Handicap (1400m) ended a frustrating run for connections after the daughter of Pierro/Just One Moment showed exciting talent as a juvenile.
At the age of two Mollynickers won two of her three starts before embarking on challenging assignments right throughout her three-year-old days.
She was placed in Group 2 and 3 races, but failed to fire in two visits to elite Group 1 company as a filly.
While those lofty expectations are still being harboured by connections, a step back in grade proved just the tonic on the weekend.
Mollynickers put the writing on the wall with an improved effort in BM100 company at Caulfield on 14 December last year, before breaking her winning drought with a stylish victory at Geelong.
Jockey Linda Meech rode a patient race on the mare, settling back in the field before making her run on the home turn.
Mollynickers gradually picked up the leaders; grinding away late to wear down Le Ferrari and Umgawa to score a breakthrough victory.
Meech said Mollynickers had enjoyed the drop down in class…and distance!
“I think sometimes these horses, they go up in the grades really quickly and they get to their level and they look like superstars, but then they try to get the group ones,” she explained
“The other day at Caulfield, she finished off really well, back up to her right sort of grade, she finished off really sharp.
“I think they tried to turn her into a 2000-metre horse and I don’t know that she is.
“I think she might be just a get back, run on, sort of seven-furlong horse, she might be able to get a mile, but I think she’s pretty sharp.”
Meech said some flexible instructions from Moody gave her the discretion to watch the race unfold.
“I would have liked to be in front of Johnny Allen (on Pascero) but I was going to have to upset her to do it, so I had to just take my medicine and come back,” she said.
“Pete (Moody) didn’t tie me down, he said, ‘just bounce, squeeze, travel’ so when you’re rid-
ing for blokes like that, it makes it a bit easier.”
Fellow Pakenham trainer Phillip Stokes may also have a good one on his hands after his threeyear-old gelding Sweethearted scored impressively in the last race on the program at Geelong.
The son of Brave Smash/Candy Floss has made a striking start to his career, with his backto-back wins following on from runner up finishes at his first two starts.
Sweethearted was forced to dig deep in the straight, with jockey Daniel Stackhouse finding a saloon passage at the turn and riding vigorously in a two-horse war to the finish.
Sweethearted narrowly nailed Band Of Brothers on the line, with the Ciaron Maher-trained Berezka back in third place.
Stackhouse said the win, after dropping back from the 1200 to 1100-metre journey, was definitely the horse’s best outing.
“One hundred per cent,” Stackhouse said.
“It was never going to be easy from that sort of map and the way the race shape sort of panned out, they were going to go quick.
“We were dropping back a hundred metres to 1100 and if I let those frontrunners get away I’d be struggling to catch them.
“But he was the best horse in the race I
thought, and he got the luck at the right time and managed to get out and he did the rest.”
Stackhouse said not everything went according to plan.
“He jumped a little bit slower than I really wanted to, didn’t want to go back to the inside, just the watering they’ve put on the track,” he said.
By David Nagel
Picnic racing returns to the picturesque Woolamai Racing Club this Saturday 11 January to complete a ‘whirlwind’ month of action at the track.
Woolamai played host to meetings on Saturday 21 and 28 December over the holidays, with the most recent of those meetings including the running of the shortest horserace in Victoria… the Woolamai Whirlwind over 888-metres.
This year’s edition of the race - the fourth since the Whirlwind’s inception – became redemption time for winning jockey Shaun Cooper, who had ran second in two of the first three runnings of the feature.
Spirit Maker, a five-year-old mare out of Spirit of Boom/Stylemaker, broke the track record in the Whirlwind, running a brisk 54.37 to set a new benchmark for the distance.
Spirit Maker continued her fantastic form in the Whirlwind, making it four wins from six starts…all ridden by Cooper.
Trained at Mornington by Nicole Dickson, Spirit Maker subsequently won at Healesville on Saturday (January 4) to make it five wins from her last seven starts.
Cooper gave the mare a beautiful ride throughout, settling just off a hot speed set by eventual place getters Doctor Coto and War Of Wisdom.
Cooper peeled out upon turning for home; hitting the front at the 100 and drawing away for a popular triumph.
452259)
The last race on the card went to Pakenhamtrained Shez Streamin’, who began a recent run of form for young trainer Reece Goodwin.
Shez Streamin’ gave the field a galloping lesson, winning by three lengths on the line to begin a winning streak for the Goodwin yard.
Last year’s winner of the Whirlwind, Dr Coto, found again late to gain second prize, with raceleader War Of Wisdom fading into third place.
Goodwin trained a race-to-race double at Stony Creek on Saturday, with Trak Chiller and Diamatti winning races five and six on the program to make it three wins and three placings for Goodwin from his last six starters.
Shez Streamin’ was ridden by Madison Morris, who combines personal training for jockeys with picnic race riding.
“He just kept giving to me every time I asked so he’s got a bright future this horse.
“Hopefully he can grow a little bit too and get a bit more size about him but he does have that class and his last two runs have shown that now.”
“It has deteriorated on the inside of the track, he came off the bridle but then to his credit, he fought hard, picked himself up, managed to come out at the right time and he still had a lot of work to do.
Tyson Barton completed a unique double of his own at Woolamai on 28 December, riding Human Shield to victory in race one before training Kahungunu to be first past the post in race four.
This week’s meeting at Woolamai (11 January) features a ‘Kids’ Day Out’ theme, with fun, games, face painting and plenty to keep the kids occupied under the famous elm trees.
Patrons can just roll up or buy tickets and group packages via the club website: woolamairaces.com.au
REMAINING PICNINC RACE MEETINGS
2024/25 SEASON
· January 11 Woolamai (Sat)
· January 12 Mansfield (Sun)
· January 18 Yea (Sat)
· January 26 Balnarring (Sun)
· February 1 Healesville (Sat)
· February 8 Woolamai (Sat)
· February 15 Buchan (Sat)
· February 22 Dederang (Sat)
· February 23 Yea (Sun)
· March 1 Woolamai (Sat)
· March 8 Hinnomunjie (Sat)
· March 9 Balnarring (Sun)
· March 15 Alexandra (Sat)
· March 22 Healesville (Sat)
· March 29 Balnarring (Sat)
· April 5 Alexandra (Sat)
· April 12 Balnarring (Sat)
· April 20 Swifts Creek (Sun)
Shaun Cooper takes eventual winner Spirit Maker to the gates ahead of the 2024 Woolamai Whirlwind. (Neil Murray:
Pakenham-trained Sweethearted flies down the outside to win the last race at Geelong on Saturday. (Reg Ryan/Racing Photos: 452262)
The Moody/Coleman-trained Mollynickers was back to her brilliant best for jockey Linda Meech on Saturday. (Brett Holburt/Racing Photos: 452262)
ENROL NOW FOR 2025 LIMITED VACANCIES AVAILABLE
Our faith leads to wisdom and courage.
This motto is the energising source of all that happens at St Clare's and is embedded in the ethos of the school, the curriculum we offer and the relationships we develop within our school and wider communities.
If you are reading this as a prospective student, parent, guardian or family, I invite you to visit us at St Clare's and discover this dynamic learning environment and start the beginning of, what I hope will be, a life-long learning partnership.
Helen Staindl School Principal
