News - Pakenham Officer Star News - 13th February 2025

Fed up with crime

By Corey Everitt and Afraa Kori

A

with some businesses deciding to take matters into their own hands when faced with brazen thieves.

The Central Hotel in Beaconsfield recently uploaded a video of an attempted theft in which they successfully intervened and recovered their stock.

The Hotel runs an accompanying drive-thru bottle shop which according to owner Patrick, has seen an increase in thefts over the last year. The spike is beyond any of the 15 years he has been with the Hotel “by some margin“.

This incident at around 1.30pm on Monday 10 February left Patrick and fellow staff with little patience to spare.

Three individuals walked into the drive-thru where one of them grabbed a slab of beer and placed it into a trolley pushed by another.

Camera footage posted by the Central Hotel shows there was no attempt to be discreet.

“They really didn’t care, they just walked out,“ Patrick said, Patrick and some of the staff gave chase and

when they caught up to them on Old Princes Freeway all that audacious confidence quickly subsided and they gave up on the slab.

The three would-be thieves will go on the wall of shame at the Central Hotel, which will hopefully help staff spot offenders before anything occurs.

Continued page 2

Annie of Pickers Retro Haven in Beaconsfield. (Garry Sissons)

‘Nothing Better’ than Swift

By Afraa Kori

Ahead of a massive national headline tour, country music trailblazer Andrew Swift celebrates new beginnings with the release of ‘Nothing Better’.

As a 3 x Golden Guitar award winner, new homeowner and soon-to-be first-time dad, Andrew has plenty to be thankful for.

“It feels like not long ago I was mentally preparing to be fixing caravans and living life as a single man until the end of my days,” admits Andrew. “I didn’t think that being a full-time musician, homeowner, having a loving partner and a baby on the way would be on the cards, but here we are. Sometimes life blindsides you in the best way possible.”

Andrew penned the song alongside co-writers Lindsay Rimes & Tyler James Bellinger, while attending the APRA Melbourne - Nashville SongHubs sessions in Nashville, TN. Mere days before embarking for the states he signed the dotted line on his first home. “A lot of the songs I wrote during those sessions were about being grateful for where I’m at in life and this song in particular really captured that”.

With its freewheeling guitar lines and soaring melodies, ‘Nothing Better’ feels like a natural and exciting evolution in the singer-songwriter’s sound. Produced by long-time collaborator and multi-award winner, Matt Fell, the recording process was both lucrative and tranquil.

“Having previously worked together on the last 3 albums, I feel like we’re on the same page now more than ever. I love being able to get down to his new studio, Wilder Studios, in remote Tasmania. It feels like you’re a million miles away from the real world and you can really focus on the recording process.”

With a video clip that features the singer’s childhood home and his real-life partner, Simone, the song exudes an authenticity that can’t be manufactured.

Shot by Jeremy Minnett of Eyes and Ears Creative, the clip combines breathtaking scenery with

a clearly elated Andrew Swift.Having notched over 7M streams, releasing 3 x ARIA chart topping albums and garnering 3 x Golden Guitar awardsplus a nomination at this year’s awards for his recent collaboration with fellow country star, Amber Lawrence, Andrew has cemented himself as one of the country’s premier acts.

Fans across the nation will get to experience the singer-songwriter’s impressive back catalogue of hits, as well as new unreleased material, as he embarks on his biggest tour yet in 2025.

“Touring is possibly my favourite part of being a singer/songwriter,” says Andrew. “I love getting on the road, the driving, the shows and connecting with an audience.”

“The tour is unique in the fact that there’s diversity between the shows. Some of the shows I get to bring the band along and have more of a rocking live show, but then some of the shows are just with my guitarist and its much more of a storyteller show where I’m probably too open with some of my stories but we have a good laugh, often at my expense.”

Andrew said self-care practises has helped him handle the physical and mental demands of touring.

“I’m very hands on, I do a lot of kilometers, loading gear in and out, on top of the admin required as a self-managed artist. When it comes to self-care, I’ve come to realise that I’m somebody

that need to recharge in a quiet place, so often I’ll make sure I have a rest day after coming back from a weekend of shows. I think the main thing is listening to my body and taking some time for me when I need to.”

2025 is set to be a huge year for Andrew Swift, on and off stage. With a baby on the way, a massive 20+ national tour and the catchy single, ‘Nothing Better’ undoubtedly one of his most electrifying releases to date; the best is still yet to come for the travelling troubadour.

The NSW, QLD, VIC TAS and WA tour runs from February to August. Tickets are available via www.andrewswift.com.au/tour

Beaconsfield continues to be hotspot for crime

From page 1

Although all are aware that taking matters into your own hands is not the ideal or advised approach, for the Central Hotel this incident exemplifies the magnitude of crime they have had to handle with even opposition leader Brad Battin posting about the incident on social media.

This was only a few days after a gunshot was heard by patrons of the Hotel on Friday 7 February.

Police believe a group of unknown male offenders fired a shot at a 19-yearold male outside a business on the other side of the Old Princes Highway.

The shot did not hit anyone and the police are still investigating.

Patrick said these incidents were “con-

cerning“ and may not be alone in that thought as they have “never really happened before“ in Beaconsfield.

Pickers Retro Haven was also targeted on the afternoon of February 8, marking the third time they have seen their store fall victim to theft.

“This is the third and last time you will steal from our premises,” store owner Nick Johnstone said.

“We are familiar with their faces and every time they come in, something goes missing.

“They’ve targeted us but we never picked them up before, now we’ve got everything on camera!

“These idiots stole thousands of dollars worth of stuff and you just can’t replace it every time.”

In the three incidents, the alleged thieves

have stolen high-end designer goods.

The repeated thefts have strained the business financially, making it harder to cover losses and maintain donations.

The incident was reported to police.

The frustrated local believes “the youth are on the loose” and the police should “step up” in Beaconsfield.

“The state government needs to employ more officers and if they’re tied down with paperwork, get more support staff,” Mr Johnstone said.

“This is why we’ve got to vote this government down, because the bail laws have got to change.

“Bail is a presumption of innocence, but then if they re-offend, they should go to jail.”

Andrew Swift. (Supplied)

Camera footage of the alleged offenders at the Central Hotel.

(Supplied)

Wait times still behind

By Violet Li

Casey and Greater Dandenong residents waited longer for the ambulance than last year, according to the latest quarterly statistics released by Ambulance Victoria (AV).

From October to December 2024, about 61.3 per cent of Code 1 incidents in Casey were responded to within 15 minutes, a drop from 64.6 per cent in the same period in 2023. The average response time was 15 minutes 46 seconds in the quarter, 35 seconds longer than the year before.

Greater Dandenong saw an 8.2 per cent decrease in Code 1 incident responses within 15 minutes in the quarter, from 74.3 per cent in 2023 to 66.1 per cent in 2024. The average response time in 2024 was one minute and six seconds longer than in 2023, from 13 minutes 49 seconds to 14 minutes 55 seconds.

Neither the performance in Casey nor Dandenong in this quarter met the statewide targets of responding to Code 1 incidents within 15 minutes for 85 per cent of incidents.

Statewide, AV crews across Victoria responded to 64.9 per cent of Code 1 cases within the statewide target of 15 minutes.

The state-wide average response time to Code 1 emergencies was 15 minutes and 42 seconds.

Code 1 incidents happen to patients who require urgent paramedic and hospital care.

Statistics from the Victorian Agency for Health Information (VAHI) have shown that when it comes to the 90th percentile response time for life-threateningincidentsunderCode1incidents, Casey recorded a response time of 19.02 minutes in the October to December quarter, about 2.88 minutes slower compared with the year before. The number was higher than the statewide value of 18.74 minutes.

Ambulance Victoria (AV) executive director

Regional Operations Danielle North said demand for ambulance crews remains steadily high, with the last quarter of 2024 being AV’s fourth busiest on record.

“We have seen a 26.6 per cent increase in Code 1 cases since the pandemic began more than five years ago,” Ms North said.

“October to December is commonly one of our busiest times, and last year was no exception as our crews were called to 99,799 Code 1 emergencies. This was also the third quarter in a row close to or above 100,000 cases.

“In the face of this sustained pressure, our highly skilled paramedics and first responders do a remarkable job providing the best care to their communities, each and every day.”

Ms North said there was more work to do.

“AV continues to work with hospitals to promptly transfer patients and ensure all Victorians receive the right care at the right time,” she said.

“More new paramedics have also hit the road to help meet demand. Since last November, we have welcomed 84 new graduate paramedics to our ranks, and a further 15 new recruits will start soon, including qualified paramedics from New South Wales, Queensland, the Northern Territory and New Zealand.

“Our people are our greatest assets. It is through them that we continue to lead the way in patient care, including one of the best cardiac arrest survival rates in the world.

“We are also giving them the latest technology they need to do their job and get back on the road quicker. In 2025, we are rolling out new digital radios across regional Victoria and iPads to all our crews with a modern platform, making it easier and faster to complete electronic patient care records.”

THE LOWDOWN

Q&A

Tell us a fun fact about yourself!

A strong advocate for the Afghan community in Australia for over 25 years, helping countless people resettle and build new lives

What do you love the most about your job? I love making a real difference in people’s lives. I support and empower people during one of the most challenging transitions of their lives.

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

Horse

What was your most memorable moment?

Receiving the Order of Australia Medal (OAM)

What were you like as a kid? I liked to play with dolls.

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

School opening for Afghan Girls in Afghanistan.

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

Mother Teresa, Nelson Mandela, Mahatma Gandhi, Malala Yousafzai, Fatima Jinnah, Julia Gillard

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

Where is your happy place?

My house and office

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

Afghan ASH

Where is your dream holiday destination?

Paris

with Gulghotai Bezhan

THREE … ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day

As Valentine’s Day fast approaches, here are three ways you can celebrate the day of love between partners, friends and family.

1

A thoughtful and cosy date night/ dinner at home

Whether it be for your partner, amongst your friends or for your family, nothing beats a hearty and thoughtful meal for your loved ones. Bring out the recipe book, spend time cooking together and chow down at the table once it’s all set and done.

2

Going on an adventure or experiencing something unique

For those who love going out, treating a loved one to a day trip to a scenic nature spot, or a themed activity such as a Valentine’s cooking class or a winetasting event could be the move. Otherwise, taking your friends out to a theme park, a hike or even a hot air balloon ride might be the way to showcase your love.

3

A get-together celebration Or things could be kept simple, such as spending quality time with each other or your friends, being in each others’ presence as you go about and leisurely enjoying your hobbies while taking the time to show your appreciation for them.

(Creative Commons Licence: Liamdavies)

Gulghotai (Gula) Bezhan. (Stewart Chambers: 454815)

Pool violence sparks debate

By Ethan Benedicto and Violet Li

The recent brawl at Casey RACE, alongside the assault of a lifeguard at Casey ARC, has prompted the City of Casey’s mayor, Stefan Koomen, to assure that there are “strong procedures” in place for the safety of the community.

Likewise, these incidents have since fanned discussions amongst local residents and facility patrons on safety, especially considering the presence of younger children.

Koomen said that the council is working with its leisure contractor, Aligned Leisure to ensure that there are “strong procedures in place to protect the community and staff when there are any serious instances”.

“These two incidents are currently under police investigation, so we can’t comment specifically on them, and we’re working with Victoria Police, our staff, and the contractors, as they do their investigations,” he said.

Koomen also added that on both occasions, it has been confirmed that staff had followed procedure when it comes to responding to these types of incidents.

He further noted that these are “two separate incidents” that took place at different times and places.

The investigation into the assault on the lifeguard remains ongoing, according to Victoria Police, with more information to be made available to the public when there is an update.

The investigation into the Casey RACE brawl also remains ongoing.

The said brawl between youths at the Cranbourne East pools on Sunday 2 February led to a facility-wide evacuation, with police attending the incident.

However, all parties had left the scene before officials could intervene, and no injuries were reported.

About two weeks before the Casey RACE brawl, a group of eight youths assaulted a 19-yearold lifeguard at Casey ARC, another aquatic centre in the City of Casey.

However, sentiments from employees at neighbouring facilities have noted that there have never been any “specific issues”.

“We’ve been here for a while now, and there are always a lot of kids and families in this area with the courts and the pools, but it’s (fights) not really a concern.

“I don’t think it’s something to highlight, maybe the issue is just over there but it certainly hasn’t spilled out of it,” they said.

Another worker said that children and youth are common in the Casey RACE area, considering The Shed Skatepark, Casey Stadium, and schools in close proximity such as Casey Grammar, fights

and scuffles are few in between.

“It’s not really common, I mean what happened at the other place was different, but things like fights don’t really happen,” a local resident who frequented the area’s facilities said.

“A lot of people come here to enjoy the amenities, so I mean, from my perspective, I think it’s normal for people to not want to ruin that atmosphere.

“I mean it sucks that it’s happened twice at different pools now, but I wouldn’t say it’s a regular occurrence.”

While there is no confirmation from the police if the two incidents are linked, rumours have spread far in the community that the same group of teens was involved in the two incidents, with a focus on the ethnicity of the teens.

The suspect images of the Casey ARC assault released by the police have shown that the offenders are of Middle Eastern appearance, while an alleged low-resolution video of the Casey RACE brawl does not exhibit identifiable facial features.

A number of online comments on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) urged the deportation of “Afghan youth gangs” after the second incident.

A racism expert - who did not wish to be named - said the two incidents were a social problem, not an ethnic problem.

“By emphasising that it was a group of Afghan kids, it sounds like it was done because they were Afghans, but it has nothing to do with them being Afghans or other races,” they said.

The expert noticed that the two incidents were used by far-right extremist groups in Victoria to push their ideological extremist agenda.

“I think when people read it, they may not get the bigger idea of those neo-Nazi groups that are driving that. But what they do see is the people, the non-white or the Afghan or the African, they cause trouble. Maybe we should keep them all out,” they said.

“That makes them then more vulnerable or more susceptible or more receptive to the bigger ideological agenda of those groups.

“These groups are trying to gradually bring

more people to their ideological mindset with that kind of message. And that’s common across the world. It’s not specific to Australia.”

Acting on safety, Royal Lifesaving Victoria updated a December 2024 release and campaign on tackling abuse against lifeguards called, ‘Keep Your Cool at the Pool’.

According to their research, in 2023/2024, there were over 2000 incidents that involved abuse, violence and aggression directed at staff who were working in aquatic facilities around the country.

The campaign, as stated on their website, sets out clear behavioural expectations for users and “calls for users of aquatic facilities to treat each other and staff respectfully”.

Royal Life Saving general manager, capability and industry RJ Houston said that “violence and aggressions towards lifeguards and swim teachers are unacceptable”.

“Our campaign has been developed to reinforce a culture of respect, cooperation and zerotolerance for aggression in aquatic facilities.

“Lifeguards and swim teachers provide a critical lifesaving role to the community and are there to keep everyone safe when they give instructions to swimmers, this is to maintain a safe and enjoyable environment for all,” he said.

In depth, the campaign looks to support staff safety and well-being as well as the patrons, by “encouraging responsible behaviour”.

At the same time, it endeavours to improve the confidence of lifeguards, swim teachers and reception staff when it comes to delivering safety instructions to facility goers through the minimisation of instances of abuse and aggression.

Touching on Casey’s endeavour to improve and nourish coherency within the youth, Koomen said that it remains a crucial part of what the council strives for.

“It’s part of the work that councils, schools, sporting clubs do to make sure that we have positive social spaces and activities for young people to be part of,” he said.

“That is a big focus of our work as new councillors, and it’s to make sure that there are those spaces where kids can be active and have healthy activities, so we want to encourage young people to use these facilities, but use them safely and properly.”

For a local shopper and mum of two, the fights have been a “concern”, seeing as that she and her family are frequent visitors to both pools.

“You get the usual kids running around wet surfaces, which is already dangerous in itself,” she said.

“But fights? Someone could get seriously hurt and if it keeps going then it could be sooner than later.”

The City of Casey’s mayor, Stefan Koomen, said that there are procedures in place in response to the two incidents. (Stewart Chambers: 442356)

A brawl between youths at Casey RACE has sparked community concerns. (218980)

Unlock future career options

Unlock future career opportunities at Cardinia Shire’s Jobs and Skills Showcase.

Job seekers can start the year right by connecting with local employers at Cardinia Shire Council’s upcoming Jobs and Skills showcase.

Held on Wednesday 26 March at the Cardinia Cultural Centre from 10am to 1:30pm, this year’s Jobs and Skills Showcase will feature a range of exhibitors and activities to assist job seekers with information on current vacancies and career pathways.

Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with a variety of local businesses from a range of industries including

· HIA (Housing Industry Association)

· Red Gem Growers and Packers

· Federation University

· Myli Library Services

· Casey Cardinia Jobs Portal

The showcase will also include tailored workshops delivered by Chisholm Jobs and Skills Centre designed to provide job seekers with helpful tips and hints on resume and cover letter writing and preparing for interviews.

The Cardinia Jobs and Skills Showcase and Workshops are free to attend, but booking is required.

· Please visit https://www.trybooking.com/ CVTXN to book your spot.

The 2025 Cardinia Jobs and Skills showcase is proudly supported by Local Jobs - South Eastern Melbourne and Peninsula, Star News Group and Chisholm Jobs and Skills Centre.

Unlock future career opportunities at Cardinia Shire’s Jobs and Skills Showcase.

Andy’s book hits the shelves

By Violet Li

Clyde North local and auctioneer Andy Reid launched his first book last month, wishing to help people build better connections with their vision of success.

The book, named Success Curious, dedicated to his two children, explores the common challenges people face in their careers, businesses, and personal lives and aims to provide tangible and practical steps towards self-improvement.

The author, who spent a lot of time volunteering in the local soccer club, community centre, and business organisation, has a portfolio of high performance and chasing success: Australian auctioneer of the year 2022, director of an auctioneering company servicing more than 130 different real estate agencies throughout Victoria, host of podcast High Performance Humans, and the list goes on.

However, unlike many personal development authors who like to insert their success stories to constantly prove their strategies, Andy tried to be invisible in the book and only showed up when necessary, believing that the book was not about him but about whom he could help.

“I’m the least important person,” he said. It has been out of a professional habit as an auctioneer.

“You got a vendor whose biggest asset is being sold. You got a buyer who’s making a massive decision in the context of their lives, one of the

biggest in their lives. You’ve got a real estate agent whose reputation in future business is relying upon it,” Andy said.

“I’m just out there shouting, having fun, and that’s what puts me into a flow state.

“When I can wire it in my head for it to be about everybody else, I’ll wait. I’ll be spot on, and I will help, and I will help people be successful.”

The Clyde North local admitted that the chase for success sent his mental health into the drain, which was the reason he initially wanted to write this book. He became curious about the concept of success, and after a long time of contemplation, he thought he could now articulate quite well on what he found to help others.

“I’ve been lucky in whatever I’ve been doing in my life. It’s not like I’m the best thing ever. When I’m involved in something, I tend to do quite well,” he said.

“When mental health really got a grip on me, it made me reassess everything, and I knew that I had to change as a human because I was in denial almost.

“It was almost like I had to chase success to make up for how bad I was feeling at times. It was like a papering over the cracks. It was like a bandaid on a broken leg.

“One of the best things I ever did was become a student myself. Understand the chemicals in my brain, understand the dynamics in the background, the psychology around emotion and all

that sort of stuff. I just became a massive geek around it.”

During his research, the student was hoping to find evidence to disapprove a lot of commonly known things around success, but only to find out everything out there is correct.

If everything out there about success that everybody knows about is right, why aren’t more people doing it? Andy questioned.

“The easy answer is to tell is because it’s hard. But I disagree. Because all the elements, the knowledge, the theory around being successful has been around since Ancient Greece,” he said.

“But we’re looking at it the wrong way, and this is the biggest thing I’ve learned.

“The problem is not the people. The problem is not that it’s challenging. The problem is the gap in connection between the knowledge and the identity of the human being.”

The book further explores potential answers to the question and other elements of success. Each chapter begins with a question that people ask about success, and Andy tells a story related to his life, backs it up with evidence, and connects the knowledge with reality.

Andy hopes this book can actually help to make every version of success more accessible.

“This book is not going to tell you something you don’t already know, but it might help you feel that what you do know is actually half achievable,” he said.

Nepalese women taking the plunge for water safety

A summer of swimming and enjoying the beach is on the cards for a group of Nepalese women who, before this year, had rarely been in the sea.

With the help of a 2024 South East Water Community Grant, non-profit organisation Didi Bahini Samaj Victoria (DBSV) has trained 42 Nepalese women from the Casey, Dandenong and Wantirna suburbs in water safety.

DBSV, which connects Nepalese women and organises health and wellbeing activities to help break social isolation, received a $10,000 grant to provide swimming and ocean safety lessons.

Coming from landlocked Nepal, the women had little opportunity to learn these skills. This program provided them with essential training and confidence to go swimming and help look out for others.

The Nepalese women participated in a series of pool sessions to build their confidence in and around water.

Life Saving Victoria facilitated the final session on beach and water safety, both theory and practice.

The women used the skills and knowledge they learned through the program. Some stepped into the seawater for the first time in their lives. This program will provide many women with essential water safety skills, giving them the confidence to enjoy water activities with their families,” DBSV advisor Roshan Bhandary said.

“It’s about breaking social isolation and fostering a sense of belonging,” DBSV coordinator Neera Basnet said.

DBSV coordinator Brinda Shrestha said the women were developing vital water safety skills and building connections with others in the community.

“They’re not only developing vital water safety skills but also building connections with others in the community.”

Sanju Subedi was one of the 42 women who participated in the program and said it was a life-changing experience.

“I never thought I would feel comfortable in the water, but this program has changed that completely,” she said.

“Now, I feel confident to swim with my family and even help keep them safe.

“It’s not just about learning to swim. It’s about finding freedom and joy in something I

never imagined I could do.”

South East Water’s Community Grants program funds local projects that support vulnerable community members; make our environment healthier; help people be more active and connected; and build our knowledge about water and how to use it in the best way possible.

“We’re delighted to support Didi Bahini Samaj with this important initiative, helping women learn essential water safety skills and enjoy the confidence to embrace all that Port Phillip Bay has to offer,” South East Water acting general manager Strategy and Stakeholder Caroline Patrick said.

“This program is a wonderful example of how our Community Grants can empower local groups to make a meaningful impact—building skills and connections whilst improving health and wellbeing.”

The Community Grants program helps make grassroots community projects possible, supporting the community in the areas of affordability, health and liveability, environment and water security and knowledge.

Applications open for the 2025 program on 17 February 2025.

Learn more about the South East Water Community Grants here: southeastwater.com. au/grants

Candles alight at the opening of St Josephine Bakhita Catholic Primary School, Clyde North. (Stewart Chambers: 458352)

With the help of a 2024 South East Water Community Grant, non-profit organisation Didi Bahini Samaj Victoria (DBSV) has trained 42 Nepalese women from the Casey, Dandenong and Wantirna suburbs in water safety. (Supplied)

Clyde North local Andy Reid with his debut book Success Curious. (Supplied)

Oceania Glass collapses

by Cam Lucadou-Wells

A 169-year-old glass manufacturer based in Dandenong South has collapsed after warning of the impact of cheap imports being dumped in Australia.

Oceania Glass - which employs much of its 261 workforce at Dandenong - was announced as in the hands of voluntary administrators at Grant Thornton Australia on 4 February.

The business will continue to trade during the voluntary administration period, with a view to selling to an “appropriate buyer”, the administrators stated.

According to its website, Oceania Glass sold its first glass in 1856 and is Australia’s only maker of architectural glass. It’s considered a vital part of the glass supply sector.

Prior to its collapse, Oceania Glass submitted to the Anti-Dumping Commission that the Australian industry had suffered “material injury” as a result of clear laminate glass imported from Thailand and China at dumped and subsidised prices.

The Commissioner launched an investigation last year as a result but the issue is yet to be resolved, joint administrator Matt Byrnes said.

“The company’s view is they need better protection by the Government that would enable them to be more price-competitive.

“We’re still working through all the reasons for (Oceania Glass’s collapse) - but that’s likely to be one of them.”

Oceania Glass reportedly owes creditors an estimated $125 million-plus.

Byrnes said the final amount was still being worked through, including money owed to workers. More information was expected in a report to a creditors meeting on Friday 14 February.

South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance chief executive Honi Walker said Victorian manufacturers were “at a crossroads”.

“We simply can’t compete on price from China and other Asian countries.

The loss of “sovereign capability” on an “essential product” would cause homes to cost more and take longer to build with “unsafe” overseas glass, she said.

“What our governments have completely ignored is safety.

“Imported steel from China does not meet Australian Standards and was the reason the new stand at GMBH Stadium collapsed in 2023 and the Kew Recreational Centre’s roof caved in.

“Lives are at risk on many levels.”

Walker called for the reinstatement of federal anti-dumping laws to stop “cheaply, poorly made products being dumped in Australia and

used on vital public projects”.

As well as the State Government to “start applying their own Local Content Jobs First policy”. Last week, SEMMA unveilled a pitch for a halving of the company tax rate from 30 per cent to 15 per cent for Australian manufacturers. Industry Minister Ed Husic’s office was contacted for comment.

Oceania Glass based in Greens Road, Dandenong South is in the hands of voluntary administrators. (Gary Sissons: 457858)

SEMMA chief executive Honi Walker has called for the reinstatement of anti-dumping laws.

Surgery times improve

by Sahar Foladi

Elective surgery wait times have improved overall at Casey and Dandenong Hospitals, according to the latest quarterly stats released by the Victorian Agency for Health Information.

Both hospitals completed 100 per cent of urgent surgeries (category 1) within the recommended 30-day wait times in the October-December 2024 quarter. This was also the case in the same quarter in 2023.

By the end of the reporting between October to December 2024, the median waiting time for semi-urgent (category 2) planned surgeries was 67 days in Casey Hospital with 66 per cent treated within the clinically recommended time of 90 days.

This is compared to 60 days at Dandenong Hospital with a 63 per cent semi-urgent patients

treated within 90 days.

Similarly, in category 3, 80 per cent of non-urgent patients were seen within the recommended time of 365 days.

This is a significant improvement from 47 per cent a year earlier.

Dandenong Hospital also recorded an improved 62 per cent, up from 43 per cent.

However, despite the improvements, there are a large number of patients receiving overdue semi-urgent surgeries despite a drop in the number of people treated at Casey (18 per cent down) and Dandenong (10.5 per cent down).

Overdue surgeries are those that occur beyond the recommended treatment times.

In Casey, there were 1899 patients who received overdue semi-urgent surgeries and 1145 in Dandenong.

Dementia and carer’s information sessions

Caring for someone living with dementia, a chronic condition, or a diagnosed disease?

Join our free carer’s sessions to learn about Alfred Health Carers’ Carer Gateway, carer support and services, Forget Me Not - dementia friendly café social groups, and Carers Social Support Groups.

To Book

Complete the online form at www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/ carersessions2025 or call Outlook Community Centre on 5940 4728 Proudly

Tuesday 4 March

Any carers can attend and apply to register with Carer Gateway.

11am – 12.30pm: ‘Understanding dementia –you’re not alone!’ For carers of someone living with dementia.

1pm - 2pm: ‘An introduction to the Carer Gateway and registration process’, For carers of someone living with dementia, a chronic health condition or diagnosed disease.

Sessions held at Outlook Community Centre, 24 Toomuc Valley Rd, Pakenham, with refreshments provided.

The average overdue wait times are 102 days in Casey and 156 days in Dandenong.

Moreover there’s a significant amount of people still on the waiting list for planned surgeries across all categories, urgent, semi-urgent and non-urgent as of December 2024.

In Casey hospital, 2287 patients are waiting and 1744 in Dandenong hospital.

Victoria’s Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas MP says investments made to improve surgery wait times are contributing to the success of the “impressive results,” highlighting the roles of the Government’s urgent care clinics and virtual emergency department.

“Despite facing record demand our dedicated doctors, nurses, midwives and paramedics continue to provide world-class healthcare to Victorians, when and where they need it.

“We’re continuing to invest in our hospitals -

growing the workforce, delivering more beds and reforming how our health services work together – to reduce pressure on EDs and our paramedics.”

Opposition health spokesperson Georgie Crozier says the system “remains far from meeting crucial benchmarks”, noting the 65 to 70 per cent of ambulance transfers within 40 minutes.

“The government keeps shifting blame, but the reality is patients are still waiting too long for care.

“Instead of fixing the root causes, the government’s response has been to penalise health services for failing to meet targets – yet it’s patients who are ultimately paying the price.

“It shouldn’t be this hard to get patients transferred and treated on time.”

Ms Crozier also points out this is despite the reduced patient load, hospitals continue to struggle to meet the 40-minute target.

My Aged Care and Care Finder information sessions

Book now to learn about My Aged Care and how Care Finder can help eligible seniors access services like cleaning, shopping, and personal care!

If you or someone you know needs support to stay safe and independent, these sessions will help get you started. The sessions are free, include refreshments, and offer an opportunity to speak directly to an expert. Bookings are required for catering purposes.

How to book

To book, please contact our Ageing Well team: Phone: 1300 787 624 Email: mail@cardinia.vic.gov.au

Session 1: Thursday 27 March, 11am–2pm

Cardinia Civic Centre, 20 Siding Avenue, Officer

Session 2:

Wednesday 28 May, 1–3.30pm

Koo Wee Rup

Senior Citizens Centre, 1A Icke Rd, Koo Wee Rup

Sessions are flexible –Choose to attend one, both or part of a session.

Casey Hospital.

Dandenong Hospital. (Stewart Chambers: 296906)

Training to boost local jobs

By Violet Li

Construction, health and community services, education and training, and retail and hospitality are the sectors Chisholm Institute of TAFE and the City of Casey have identified to expand priority training programs in.

Last month, the two institutions announced their partnership to create accessible employment pathways for residents and enhance local hiring opportunities for businesses.

According to Chisholm Institute of TAFE, through industry and community engagement and analysis of the Victorian Skills Authority employment projections, the partnership has identified that expansion of priority training programs is needed within the Construction, Health & Community Services, Education & Training and Retail

& Hospitality sectors to support the growth and resilience of the City of Casey’s businesses.

The partnership also formalises Chisholm and the City of Casey’s commitment to expanding training into emerging areas of regional significance, including Advanced Manufacturing, Business and Professional Services, Logistics, Creative Industries, and the Visitor Economy.

“By focusing on these areas, the partnership aims to equip the region with the skills needed for future industries, ensuring workforce readiness and providing a competitive advantage to meet growth trends in both established and emerging sectors,” a spokesperson for the Chisholm said.

“A key focus of this partnership includes increasing engagement with the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community by actively seeking input from Indigenous leaders and or-

ganisations to enhance educational access and employment outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.”

The spokesperson also said it had established training partnerships with Casey businesses to recruit, train and employ job seekers across the region to meet the local workforce skill shortages, particularly in manufacturing and early childhood education.

“Additionally, Chisholm is actively contributing to the development of the local Healthcare Precinct, collaborating with Monash Health and the City of Casey to promote training and employment opportunities in the care sector,” they said.

“This collaboration aims to build a highly skilled, locally trained workforce to meet the growing healthcare needs of the region.”

Chisholm also works closely with local indus-

Celebrating school crossing supervisors

By Ethan Benedicto

As School Crossing Supervisor Day passed on Friday 7 February, the City of Casey celebrated it by acknowledging the contributions of a local supervisor in Clyde North.

Shirley Tjoa, the crossing supervisor for Turrun Primary School on the eastern border of the suburb, has been on the job for several years, a job that she loves.

“My favourite part is having the kids cross, they’re just all really excited, especially the little ones, and they’re very cute,” she said.

“They always want to say hello, and I appreciate their parents too; they all seem to trust me with this responsibility and I enjoy it.”

Having a day dedicated to hers and every other supervisor’s efforts was ecstatic, with Shirley saying that it made her feel special, and acknowledged.

“It’s to recognise the importance of this work, that it’s for safety, about getting these children across the road safe,” she said.

The City of Casey’s mayor, Stefan Koomen was also in attendance, speaking to Shirley and saying that it’s crucial to appreciate the people “looking after our kids and families”.

“Especially on their way to and from school, and I think it’s important to recognise the work that they do.

“This year alone we’ve got four new schools opening in Clyde North, so that’s a lot of traffic in our streets,” he said.

Koomen touched on raising awareness and the encouragement of local drivers to tread carefully around newer areas, especially considering

the soon-to-be increased volume of children.

Shirley admitted that with new homes still being built, and new residents still pouring in with no signs of slowing down, there is an increased intensity to her role.

“I’ll just have to take it as it comes,” she said.

“I know the traffic at the moment is a bit rough, they’re not that aware yet that it’s a school zone, people are still getting used to it.”

Despite the roads being rough around the edges, Shirley remains steadfast that she can perform in her role, and in smoothing out the daily habits of commuters in the area.

tries through its Industry Advisory Groups (IAGs) to ensure its programs are responsive to the needs of employers and the community.

Chisholm Institute of TAFE chief executive officer Stephen Varty said they are proud to partner with the City of Casey to develop training programs that directly respond to industry needs and provide residents with hands-on learning opportunities.

“This collaboration reinforces our commitment to delivering high-quality education that benefits individuals, businesses, and the broader Casey community,” he said.

“With two of our campuses based in the City of Casey, our Berwick and Cranbourne campuses, this partnership plays a vital role in aligning our education offerings with local Casey industry needs and supporting the growth and resilience of priority sectors in the region.”

Melbourne Magistrates’ Court. (Cam Lucadou-Wells: 171634)

Additional charges

By Ethan Benedicto, Cam Lucadou-Wells

A former Clyde North woman reportedly accused of arson and property damage against her housemates and landlord is facing additional charges at the Victorian County Court.

Tsai-Wei Hung appeared by video link with an interpreter during a committal hearing at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 11 February.

She pleaded guilty to three counts of criminal damage, including to a victim’s 2016 Infiniti Q50, one count of burglary as well as a summary charge of driving in a manner which was dangerous to the public, at Clyde North on 10 March 2024.

These property damages also extend to the garage roller door, brickwork to the residential premises, a 2011 Honda Jazz and a 2007 Mazda 3 sedan.

Charge seven, the count of burglary, detailed that Hung entered the premises as a trespasser with intent to cause damage.

Last month, Hung had reportedly pleaded guilty to charges including arson and property damage.

The five further charges were part of an alleged “course of conduct with the same victims”, the court heard.

Turrun Primary School’s principal, Kristy Miller, said that she, the staff, and the children are happy to have the likes of Shirley alongside them and to have the ability to safely cross.

“It ensures the safety of our kids, which is one of our top priorities,” she said.

“A big part of our role is to make sure that the children not only know safety but demonstrate it as well.

“Our responsibility is to make sure that that happens within our school, and of course to help educate the parents as well.”

There was no application for bail.

The court noted Hung’s custody management issues - a risk of self-harm, and her vulnerability in custody due to her age and/or appearance.

It was also her first time in custody. She had limited English and was diagnosed with depression, the court heard. Hung was remanded in custody to appear at a plea hearing at the County Court on 19 May.

Shirley Tjoa, the school crossing supervisor for Turrun Primary School is all smiles, celebration day or not. (Stewart Chambers: 458034_01)

Shirley holds the stop sign as Mayor Stefan Koomen, Kristy Miller (principal), and students Ava and Sidratul cross at the crossing. (Stewart Chambers: 458034_03)

Stunning new pavilion

Pearcedale Recreation Reserve is now home to a new pavilion and netball courts following a redevelopment project.

On the night of Tuesday 11 February, City of Casey Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen and Cranbourne Gardens Ward Cr Michelle Crowther were joined by The Hon. Harriet Shing MP, Bass MP Jordan Crugnale, and members of the Pearcedale Football Netball Club, Pearcedale Netball Club, Pearcedale Cricket Club and Pearcedale Baxter Junior Football Club to officially open the new facilities.

The old pavilion was demolished and redeveloped into a new, contemporary building with a community room, kitchen, four change rooms with unisex amenities, a first-aid room, umpires’ rooms and storage space.

Outside,theexistingnetballcourtsweretransformed, with two new courts installed, as well as player shelters and lighting.

The project also included an upgrade to the road network, landscaping and the installation of TheOvals,apublicartseriesbyJonathanThompson and Mark Cuthbertson.

Council contributed $2.4 million towards the pavilion and a further $800,000 to the netball facilities.

The project was further supported by the State Government.

The total cost of the pavilion redevelopment consists of $2 million from the Growing Suburbs Fund and $500,000 via the Local Sports In-

frastructure Fund – Female Friendly Facilities Stream.

The total cost of the netball redevelopment is $200,000 via the Country Football and Netball Program.

“The Pearcedale Recreation Reserve has always been the heart of the local community, a place where generations have gathered to play, celebrate, and connect with each other,“ Cr Koomen said.

Multi-vehicle collision in Pearcedale

A multi-vehicle car accident occurred on Baxter-Tooradin Road at Craigs Road in Pearcedale at around 9.30am on Tuesday 11 February.

Police attended the scene. A truck collided with six vehicles on Baxter-Tooradin Road. Paramedics responded to a collision at around 9:30am.

Two people were taken to hospital with serious injuries, and a further four were conveyed to hospital to be treated for minor injuries.

Greater Dandenong Highway Patrol mem-

“With this impressive new pavilion and upgraded netball facilities, we’ve created a space that will continue to foster community connections, build lasting friendships, and provide a strong sense of belonging for many more generations to come.“

bers will investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision.

food scraps.

When you separate your food scraps into your green bin along with garden clippings, they can be recycled into compost, instead of ending up in landfill.

The compost made from your food scraps and garden clippings can be used on farms and community gardens across Victoria to help grow food again.

Over 60% of Cardinia Shire residents are sorting their food and garden scraps into their green bin. Using your bin correctly means more high-quality compost for our parks and gardens.

Find out more: www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/greenbin

Anyone with dashcam footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Pearcedale Recreation Reserve opening on the night of Tuesday 11 February. (Supplied)

Hon Min Harriet Shing, Bass MP Jordan Crugnale, Cr Michelle Crowther, Mayor Stefan Koomen. (Supplied)

Support for frontline heroes

By Afraa Kori

For those who on the frontlines of danger and emergencies, a new safe haven awaits.

St John of God Langmore Centre is pleased to bring the first dedicated psychological trauma service for emergency services and defence personnel to Melbourne’s south east.

With a large number of emergency and defence personnel working and living in the rapidly growing region of south east Melbourne, the need for a dedicated service became evident.

The St John of God Berwick Hospital has responded to the community’s needs by ensuring access to care is provided closer to home, said general manager and CEO of St John of God, Lisa Norman.

“The location of the service is vital. It is widely understood that the involvement of loved ones can improve the emotional wellbeing of hospital patients and with a service closer to home, the program aims to keep families and support networks close at hand.”

Trauma and PTSD as a result of a psychological injury or harm is prevalent amongst those

who work to protect the community.

“It is important for emergency services and defence personnel to know that they are not alone and we are ready to support them,” Ms Norman said.

“It is important for people to be aware that psychological trauma can happen to anyone and relates to the experiences an individual is faced with, rather than an inability to cope with a difficult situation.

“People need to know that there are treatments and supports which can help them manage their symptoms and regain control of their lives. The hardest thing is acknowledging there is a problem and finding access to programs. We are here to help and deliver them an opportunity for a brighter future.”

St John of God Langmore Centre’s Emergency Services and Defence Trauma Recovery program has been designed around the specific needs of emergency services and defence personnel. The development of this service has included discussions with Victoria Police, The Police Association of Victoria, Australian Defence Force, Ambulance Victoria and Fire Rescue Victoria.

Clinicians working within the program will have undergone additional training and upskilling to enable them to understand the organisations they are working with, their processes to ensure we provide tailored care.

The program will be run by a multidisciplinary team including: psychiatrists, psychologists, allied health (including exercise physiology, art therapy, music therapy), pastoral care and nurses.

Together, these clinicians offer holistic care which encompasses medication, group and individualised therapy, spiritual and emotional care, physical wellbeing, and neuro-stimulation treatment including a new treatment known as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).

A regular support group will be offered to family members and support people. Allied health, including pastoral care practitioners and psychologists, will offer support and guidance, providing strategies to help create the optimal environment for families facing a loved one with PTSD, with the aim of optimising recovery and maintaining healthy relationships.

St John of God Langmore Centre will be commencing dedicated trauma day programs in May 2025.

In the future, these programs could be delivered offsite to communities relevant to the needs of patients we are caring for.

Ms Norman said the program will play an important role in the support ecosystem for emergency services and defence personnel.

“Our role in providing this service is to react to the needs of an individual facing a crisis. It is our hope in the future that we can work with emergency services organisations and the defence force to play a role in education and prevention.”

The official opening of St John of God Langmore Centre new service will be held at the end of this month, with exact dates to be announced shortly.

Personnel will require a psychiatrist or GP referral and can access the program by calling the intake team on (03) 9773 7000 or emailing Langmore-intake@sjog.org.au. The program can be funded by Work Cover, DVA or with private health insurance.

Celebrating creativity, culture and community at Bunjil

The opening weekend of the Asia TOPA festival is set to take place in Bunjil Place, complete with premiere performances and an exciting, familyfriendly day filled with art, music and different cultures.

On Saturday 22 February from 2pm onwards, the Bunjil Place precinct will host the Opening Gathering, a free event that focuses on celebrating the vibrant cultures of the Asia-Pacific region, complete with food, dance, interactive artmaking activities and live music.

The City of Casey’s Mayor, Stefan Koomen, said that Bunjil Place is “thrilled to support the world premiere of Bunyi Bunyi Bumi as part of the Asia TOPA festival”.

“This significant premier, along with the unique Pacific Sisters’ works, offers a wonderful opportunity for our community to connect with diverse cultures,” he said.

The afternoon will also showcase the Tagata Moana (People of the Pacific) art collective Pacific Sisters’ FreeStyle FrockAction catwalk; then from 7:30pm, Bunjil Place Studio will present the exclusive premiere of Buniy Buniy Bumi,

a new major work commissioned by Asia TOPA, Arts Centre Melbourne and Bunjil Place, and produced by BlackDance.

The contemporary dance performance blends percussion, syncopated rhythms and visuals, uniting Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, Tamil and Indonesian artists.

“I encourage everyone to join us and celebrate the extraordinary display of creativity,” Koomen said.

The Bunjil Place gallery will be extending its hours to allow visitors to experience Frock A Whanaungatanga by the Pacific Sisters, which is curated by Jade Jadfield and also presented in association with Asia TOPA and Arts Centre Melbourne.

Down the line, a partnership between Bunjil Place and the Maoriland Film Festival in March will see a collection of short films and feature film Uproar hitting the screens, accompanied by live music in the plaza culminating in an indulgent Pasifika outdoor experience.

For more information on the full list of programs, visit www.bunjilplace.com.au

Patient and caregiver in the kitchen. (Supplied)

Patient and caregiver.

Langmore pastoral service. (Supplied)

Art therapy.

Performance of Bunyi Bunyi Bumi live on stage. (Supplied)

Wida’s new book launched

By Ethan Benedicto

Fighting one delay after another, the day finally came for the official announcement of Wida Tausif’s third children’s novel, Ali Goes to School.

Held at Oakgrove Community centre on Saturday 8 February, Wida, alongside her family, friends, and local representatives such as River Gum Ward councillor Lynette Pereira, Quarters Ward Councillor Carolyn Eaves and Bruce MP Julian Hill, were all present for the reveal.

For Wida, seeing her work finally bear fruit was ecstatic, especially when it meant, not just for her, but for the children that she looks to reach, a step closer to a more inclusive and accepting environment.

“I’m feeling a little bit nervous but I’m also very, very excited, I’ve been waiting for this day for such a long time and now it’s finally here,” she said.

“This all doesn’t feel real to be honest, it still feels like a dream, but I also can’t wait to read a page out of the book and have the kids give me

some feedback.”

Giving recognition to local talent has always been pivotal for councillor Pererira, and much like it is for Wida, she supports any initiative that

“will benefit the kids in their learning”.

“Especially when it comes to learning about multiculturalism, I think a lot of kids here (Casey) can relate.”

She also added that having these messages learnt at a young age is important, considering that there is a lot of “division still in the community”.

Likewise, she recalled times when she was younger when she felt “invisible” since she didn’t

“see herself in any books I was reading”.

“I think kids need to learn to get along with each other, and there is a powerful message in here that can help them, but also their parents, to foster good and respectful relationships between all ethnicities.

“But you’re also being recognised as being viable, as, you know, as part of the society that you live in,” she said.

It remains as a great leap forward when strides

such as those made by local educators and authors delve into the messages and undertones of inclusivity, with Wida acknowledging the significance ofhaving leaders in local communities attend her event.

“This is extremely important, particularly so my voice can get out there and spread the message of the book,” she said.

“It’s not just a one-person job, so if I’ve got the councillors and parliament members here, they too are able to relay ny message and get my voice across to support those children.”

As for Hill, who has known Wida for nearly 10 years, he too understood the gravity the release held, not just for her, but for the wider Casey community.

“It’s terrific that we’re seeing homegrown Australian authors telling normal, everyday kid stories, but through multicultural characters.” he said.

“If we want to be a country where everyone feels included, where they feel a sense of belonging, then if you turn on the TV, look at parliament, listen to the radio, or read books and stories, you

want them to reflect the community.”

He also said that considering that ‘Ali’ is a very common name, not just in Casey, but throughout the state, there is no question that characters of the same name should thrive in more novels, children’s or not.

While outside of the municipality, Wida, alongside Glen Education, will see her books open for reading for the young children across their 23 kindergartens.

Melissa, alongside her peers from Glen Education said it was a proud moment for them to “support one of our own”.

“We’re proud to support one of us, and to of course shine a light on what it’s like to make that big transition from kindergarten to school, but done from a multicultural lens,” she said.

The afternoon began with Wida taking her audience through her journey, where she also confirmed the second book in the series, set to release in the near future.

She also held short reading sessions for her two children and the others who were in attendance.

‘Learn through experience’: Trip to the tropics a success

By Ethan Benedicto

An overseas travel exchange has always been an exciting endeavour for many, such as the case of third-year university student Joshua Pingiaro who, along with his peers, embarked on a twoweek field trip in Sri Lanka.

Learning about the environmental and climate impacts on tropical ecosystems, the Berwick Federation University student said that his experience was amazing, especially considering how vastly different the environment was.

Speaking on flora studies, Josh said “it was interesting to see how everything is coming together, whereas in Australia the classifications have been done.”

“It was exciting to be in a place that needed some work because it was actually a place where you could learn through experience compared to back home.”

While Josh admitted that the environment in Sri Lanka and Melbourne are vastly different, the impact on tropical areas that climate change has had posed an eye-opening revelation, effects that would sooner or later have an effect on other climates if left unattended.

“Where we were in Sri Lanka, the jungle was pretty much tied straight into the cities, so you really get to see the effects on your surroundings at all times,” he said.

“Compared to back home, there’s a lot of concrete roads and footpaths even, there are garden beds here and there and a few green wedges, but it’s not enough to notice the difference and the change that is occurring.”

A release by the Smithsonian in 2022, titled ‘Tropical Trees Are Dying of Dehydration Due to Climate Change’ detailed how the deterioration

has doubled the previous rate since the 1980s, citing an international journal called Nature, a phenomenon that was observed in Australia’s northeast rainforests.

Tropical forest ecologists from the Smithsonian Environmental Research Centre (SERC), the University of Oxford, and the French National Research Institute for Sustainable Development tracked 8300 trees over 50 years’ worth of data in 24 permanent moist tropical forests in Australia.

Their observations showed that tree death rates had doubled over the past four decades, with trees only living half as long.

For Josh, getting the opportunity to learn more about the impacts of climate change on tropical environments was important, not just for his studies, but for awareness.

“Anyone can have an idea in their head and say and do whatever, but until you actually get there and experience it, you’ll never know,” he said.

“That opportunity given to us students was valuable just because we could take away a lot more than what you normally can by just hearing it by mouth.”

At the same time, he added that when and if possible, everyone should take time to learn and experience new things first-hand.

Speaking about students on the same terms, but also for those who are willing and able, “anyone who has the available means should do it for sure”.

“It’s that new place experience, you won’t know anything until you’ve done it.

“So until you actually go over there and experience it, it would be difficult to immerse yourself and truly understand what it is they’re talking about,” he said.

Wida Tausif, in the middle, alongside her husband, Daniel Parangasa (left) and Bruce MP Julian Hill (right). (Ethan Benedicto: 459147)

Fatijah, close and long-time friend of Wida’s was the emcee of the afternoon, interviewing her and taking the audience through her journey as an educator and author. (Ethan Benedicto: 459147)

From right to left: Wida’s parents, Latifa and Qasim Tausif, husband Daniel, Julian Hill, and River Gum Ward councillor Lynette Pereira at the front row. (Ethan Benedicto: 459147)

Josh Pingiaro (behind the lady in blue) during one of the excursions during his time in Sri Lanka. (Supplied)

Council weighs up debate

By Sahar Foladi

City of Greater Dandenong Council is weighing up two heavily-backed, opposing petitions on the proposed renaming of the Afghan Bazaar precinct in Thomas Street, Dandenong.

In the council meeting on Monday 10 February, both petitions were tabled - one for the renaming of the precinct to Little Bamyan by the Hazara community and the other to preserve the current name Afghan Bazaar filed by Afghan community groups.

The council meeting was widely attended members from both communities, including Barat Batoor who initiated the name-change proposal and Khalid Amiri, a spokesperson for the group to retain the name Afghan Bazaar.

They were among several who stood to ask questions during public question time.

Batoor’s paper petition to the council garnered 173 signatures from businesses in Thomas Street and surrounding areas, including non-Hazara traders and 19 signatures from community organisations and sporting clubs.

A separate online petition for Little Bamyan has attracted more than 3400 as of Tuesday morning and the Afghan Bazaar has garnered over 3770 signatures.

In response, Council’s chief executive Jacqui Weatherill said the council had not made any decisions on this matter yet and both sides would be given “very careful consideration.”

“We have received a very significant amount of enquiries on this topic of Afghan Bazaar in the last two weeks from various perspectives and what they have in common is they have been very sincere, very genuine and very heartfelt.

“Any change or formal naming process would only be taken after a genuine and thorough community consultation, which will take quite a few months and will also require quite a lot of council resources, that we listen even more deeply and

understand more about people’s views in regard to it.

“The mayor has been meeting with a variety of groups along with our manager for economic development and they are certainly hearing everybody views and will have a conversation with the council.”

She said depending on the dialogue with the community and the council, a name may be pursued through the Geographic Names Victoria “but it’s too early to say at this stage what kind of approach will be taken.”

“From the enquiries we have received its clear this topic is very complex and sensitive and we

don’t want to rush any action on this matter

“We’re very proud of the Thomas Street precinct; it’s a lively and thriving fantastic commercial and cultural precinct.

“It’s a credit to all diverse traders who have created this special place over more than 20 years.

“We’re proud of the peaceful way our Greater Dandenong community gets along despites many residents having had very painful experience of conflict and division in their birth countries.”

It was also clarified that if Thomas Street’s name was changed, it would require the state government’s Geographic Name Change registrar process.

The opposing groups are trying to garner as much support as they can, including on social media platforms, Facebook and TikTok videos which have attracted more than a thousand views.

There were more than 300 comments on Batoor’s video post the council meeting and Khalid Amiri’s TikTok video has attracted more than 4000 views and over 400 comments.

Both sides contain strong supporters in the community as well as online.

Batoor is a Hazara, internationally known and an award-winning freelance photojournalist and filmmaker, who called Australia home in 2012 and has become vocal on the struggle of identity and belonging through his works.

Khalid Amiri was a journalist in Afghanistan for the Afghan state broadcaster RTA and known for his courageous reporting.

He fled to Australia with his family after the Taliban took to power where he’s pursuing masters in international relations in University of Melbourne.

Amiri is also vocal on refugee rights, multiculturalism and inclusion in the community.

New primary school officially opens in Clyde North

By Ethan Benedicto

The official opening of St Josephine Bakhita Catholic Primary School in Clyde North was attended by over 100 people, from new students to teachers and local members of Parliament.

The event began with a mass, attended and led by the Catholic Bishop of Sale, Most Reverend Greg Bennet and Very Reverend Denis O’Bryan, the official opening also served as a commemoration of St Josephine Bakhita, the saint after which the school was named.

Kathryn Pepper, the school’s principal, opened the mass by welcoming over 100 people who were in attendance, from local residents, and students, to local members of parliament.

“It’s absolutely amazing to see the whole community come together and really unite,” she said.

“We’ve got a really diverse population here so seeing the acceptance from everyone and the warm welcome that everyone’s got, it’s something else.

“People have been very understanding, considering that we’re in the building phase, but they’re all keen to get into the school and they want to be part of that foundational community.”

Pepper added that throughout the coming years, the school will be able to accommodate over 700 students, a viable progression she noted, not just for them but for the residents and their children to receive “quality Catholic education for all families”.

“It’s not just for Catholics, we welcome everyone from all faiths, of all cultures, and that is our way to be inclusive,” she said.

The school recently accepted 64 new preps into its fold, with allotments for 2026 already filling up as 100 preps are ready to be taken in for the next year.

To accommodate for this, State funding for the second stage of construction has been confirmed and was also announced during the ceremony.

This second stage includes eight new classrooms, a dedicated STEM room and a basketball court, expanding for what principal Pepper said would be the school’s growth of 100 new

preps every year.

Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards, Southeastern Metropolitan MP Lee Tarlamis, and former Victorian Deputy Premier and current Victorian Catholic Education Authority chair, James Merlino were present, all sharing their support of growing education in a growing suburb.

Richards acknowledged the breadth of new schools that have opened in Clyde North in the last year, saying that “it’s important for our students to gave the facilities that they need and deserve”.

“Of course, it’s also for our educators to give these top-notch education facilities.

“This is integral in making sure that the said facilities are here as growing families and emerging communities arrive,” she said.

As for Merlino, he summed it down to being “delighted”, seeing as that the City of Casey and Clyde North harbour fast-growing communi-

ties, “this has been years in the making”.

“This is one of the fastest growing dioceses in the country and we’ve got a responsibility to make sure that we can provide that Catholic school education for local parents looking for it, and in partnership with the Victorian Government and supportive parents, we’ve been able to deliver it.”

Tarlamis always sees the growth of schools alongside new suburbs as essential, considering that it is where the youth “learn their values and prepare them for what comes in life”.

“It’s really our foundational support and values they learn that is important, so to have schools, people-purpose modern schools that have all the facilities they need in that growth is key.

“We’ve seen the growth in Clyde, we’ve seen the schools opening up, but having that diverse offering for those who want that Catholic education is important too,” he said.

The mass saw the younger students who were sat at the front take an active role, from delivering the communion to the Bishop, to being directly addressed during the sermons.

Once the mass concluded, Bishop Greg, alongside a select few students, altar servers and principal Pepper, went around the numerous classrooms and blessed them with Holy Water, all the while reciting prayers.

The finale involved the cutting of a red ribbon and the unveiling of the school’s official plaque.

Paul Velten, the director of Catholic education and ceo of the Diocese of Sale Catholic Education Limited, said that it was “exciting” to be able to attend the opening ceremony.

“This is exciting in terms of opportunity for Clyde North and its community, to have a school that will support those looking for Catholic education,” he said.

With a waiting list already filling up for their classes, Pepper is keen to get the year started, with more on the way for St Josephine Bakhita Primary.

Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards cuts the ribbon, as Most Rev. Greg Bennet (right), Father Denis (left), principal Kathryn Pepper and students hold it up. (Stewart Chambers: 458017)

Principal Kathryn Pepper first addressed the crowd before mass and the announcement ceremony began. (458017)

Khalid Amiri on the far right with members of the wider Afghan community against the renaming of the Afghan Bazaar. (Stewart Chambers: 457781)

Barat Batoor the organiser of the petition for the renaming of the Afghan Bazaar. (455477)

Pokemon card stealing-spree

by Cam Lucadou-Wells

A trading card game (TCG) outlet in Eumemmerring has been ransacked during a reported Melbourne-wide burglary spree targeting Pokemon cards.

Ozzie Collectables’ front automatic glass doors, security shutters and glass cabinets were damaged by an alleged group of intruders about 3-4am, according to staff.

“Most of the stock stolen was TCG related, with the majority being Pokemon cards,” store manager Dayna Mortimore said.

“Unfortunately this is becoming a recurring targeted situation with so many local businesses and card shops across Melbourne being hit over the last month.”

Mortimore said the “high-value”, “rare” collectors cards could be particularly lucrative.

She listed six similar shops that had been re-

cently ransacked, including a Thomastown outlet broken into twice in the past few months.

For much of Friday, Ozzie staff were cleaning up the broken glass, uptipped shelving and other extensive damage.

Nature to the fore at estate

“We're far from the only business affected, but we're all obviously very devastated about the impact on our business,” Mortimore said.

“Things like this are taken very personally by all of us.”

It had taken a “round-theclock” effort to build up the business since 2016, Mortimore said.

The business expanded to its larger Princes Highway outlet three years ago amidst the Covid lockdowns.

“We're so proud of how far we've come and whilst a setback like this is a hard blow, we have no doubt we'll be back up and running safely as soon as possible.”

Victoria Police is investigating the Ozzie Collectables break-in, confirming a group had into the outlet.

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

EPA pauses licence assessment

The assessment for the Development Licence of the proposed Hampton Park Waste Transfer Station has been paused after a request for more information.

According to a spokesperson of the assessment body Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) Victoria, there was a high level of public interest in the application.

The state’s environment watchdog received 751 submissions and spoke to almost 100 people across three information sessions after almost five weeks of community consultation last year.

On 24 January 2025, EPA provided redacted copies of the submissions to the applicant, Veolia,askingthemtoreviewandprovidearesponse.

“Once we receive their response, it will be published on Engage Victoria,” the spokesperson said.

“It is common practice for the EPA to seek more information during a development license process.

“While we wait for Veolia’s response, the application’s assessment is paused.”

Casey Residents & Ratepayers Association welcomed the decision by EPA Victoria.

“We believe the waste transfer station should not proceed in its current location and is not in the long-term interests, health, and safety of the local community,” vice president Anthony Tassone said.

“Given the 700 plus submissions to the public consultation of the proposed waste transfer station, the appalling compliance record of Veolia including the unprecedented judgement in the Supreme Court of Victoria of breach of General Environmental Duty and the fact that EPA Victoria themselves are in the middle of civil proceedings in the Court with Veolia cast significant doubts on whether they're fit and proper to operate the proposed waste transfer station so close to people's homes.

“EPA Victoria has a duty to prevent and reduce the harmful effects of pollution and waste on Victorians and their environment.

“All Victorians have the basic right to clean, fresh air without the worry of harmful health im-

pacts from having a waste transfer station barely 250 metres away from their homes that does not meet the EPA's own distance separation guidelines - which are in place for a reason.”

Mr Tassone said CRRA was planning a public community forum with Lynbrook Residents Association and Hampton Park Progress Association in the coming months prior to any EPA conference to ensure residents are given the opportunity to hear more about the proposed Hampton Park Waste Transfer Station.

Lynbrook Residents Association (LRA) also welcomed the EPA’s decision to pause the assessment.

“While this pause is a step forward, the fight is not over. LRA remains firmly opposed,” a spokesperson said. “LRA urges the EPA to reject this proposal outright. The community has spoken. We will not back down.” EPA Victoria has confirmed it will hold a consultation conference for the assessment of the Development Licence.

The date has yet to be pinned down.

A new nature-inspired community has finished construction in Junction Village, and its developer says the community turns environmental constraints into a haven for residents and fauna.

Launched to market in 2019, Octave now houses hundreds of residents living across 321 lots spanning 210 to 1,237 square metres.

Dr Andrew Ashwood, managing director of Developments from developer Jinding, said Octave’s setting alongside the Royal Botanic Gardens of Cranbourne presented many challenges and constraints.

Octave’s masterplan was developed in response to a range of environmental requirements as well as a vision by the City of Casey to improve livability through the provision of open space and preservation of nature.

AttheheartofOctave’surbandesignis5.7 hectares of open space, comprising active parkland, reserves and conservation areas. Harmony Park and the conservation reserve boast 2.98 and 1.2 hectares of open space, respectively, while there are also two kilometres of shared walking and bike paths. Bound by Southern Brown Bandicoot Conservation within the Precinct Structure Plan (PSP), the development provides solutions for the crossing of the Southern Brown Bandicoot with safe passage under roads.

Landscaping incorporating indigenous trees and plants also aims to facilitate the movement of the Southern Brown Bandicoot.

Culverts have also been installed under the roads to ensure safe passage for the Southern Brown Bandicoot and other wildlife species.

Octave is also a cat-free community. Working with the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) and the City of Casey, the developer assessed the site to ensure that high-value trees were retained. Another civil infrastructure that’s been integrated into the project to enhance its overall appeal is stormwater treatment.

For instance, a Melbourne Water drainage outfall running through Octave treats stormwater for the catchment area. This stormwater quality treatment runs through a drainage reserve encompassing more than two hectares, reducing the environmental impact of stormwater on the developed areas and their natural surroundings.

Landscaped, this feature serves residents and serves as an additional water source for wildlife.

Resident Eamonn Milloy said Octave is a beautiful place to live with all the wildlife surrounding them.

“You hear the kookaburras in the morning and are right next to the gardens. It’s not like a normal estate.

“It’s a hidden gem,” he said.

Octave was shortlisted in last year’s Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA) Awards residential subdivision category.

“Octave was not a simple proposition. From endangered animal safe crossings, prescripted parks and open space, to connectivity with an abutting established suburb, Octave was not about simply delivering a liveable and appealing community within the bounds of the site restrictions but embracing those constraints and amplifying opportunities to elevate the area to deliver the most worthwhile and vibrant community possible,” Dr Ashwood said.

“While the site constraints could have been intimidating, we took a positive view and were determined to show how design, innovation and engineering could create immense benefit.

“We wanted to establish a new bar for residential land development and inspire both the industry and community.”

Bailey Craig surveys the losses after Ozzie Collectables was ransacked early on Friday 7 February. (Stewart Chambers: 458240)

The outlet’s front automatic doors were smashed during the break-in.

WHAT’S ON

Upper Beaconsfield Village Festival

The Upper Beaconsfield Village Festival is back for 2025 for local families to enjoy. Including a range of activities, the day will be joined by the local CFA, primary school, kindergarten, pony club, men’s shed, tennis club, scouts and Country Women’s Association all providing and joining in on the fun. The festival will be held on Sunday 16 February at Upper Beaconsfield Community Centre, 10-12 Salisbury Road from 8am to 3pm.

Bunyip Show

The Bunyip Show is back in 2025 for a day of family fun to see the best of local agriculture.

• Held on Sunday 23 March at the Bunyip Recreation Reserve.

Berwick Bridge Club

Berwick Bridge Club is looking for new members. There are two free beginner’s courses. One starts on Monday night, 24 February, from 7 to 9pm and the second is on Friday morning, 28 February, from 10am to 12pm.

Both courses run for eight weeks. Lessons are run at Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House, 21A Bemersyde Drive, Berwick. No partner is required.

• To reserve your place please phone Maree on 9702 2348.

Officer Probus Club

The new Officer Probus Club meets on the first Friday of the month from 10am at the Officer Sports Club on the corner of Princes Highway and Sterling Road in Officer

Be part of a social club to meet new friends, hear from guest speakers and enjoy activities and outings.

• For more information, contact Helen Kusters on 0412 170 300 or officerprobussecretary@ gmail.com

Pakenham Arthritis Self-Help Group

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Line dancing

The Berwick Senior Citizens Centre is hosting line dancing sessions from 10am to noon every Tuesday at 112 High Street in Berwick.

CHURCH

First session is free, with a small fee for future classes.

Morning tea or coffee included.

Inner Wheel Club of Berwick

The Inner Wheel Club (IW) Berwick is a ladies international friendship club which raises funds to support local charities and other worthwhile causes.

They have a dinner meeting on the first Monday of the month and enjoy a range of activities including guest speakers, morning teas, book club and craft afternoons.

• For more information, visit their Facebook page or contact iiw.au.berwick@gmail.com

Berwick Springs VIEW Club

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

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

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

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

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

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

Probus Club of Pakenham East

The Probus Club of East Pakenham is encouraging new members to join the Club.

Meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month at the Cardinia Club, 71 Racecourse Road, Pakenham, commencing at 10.30am.

A short meeting is followed by morning tea and the opportunity to get to know members prior to the introduction of the guest speaker.

Various activities are held throughout the month.

• For more information, phone president Gary on 0428 255 178 or contact secretary Dorothy

on probuspakenhameast@gmail.com

U3A Casey

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

It offers 65 different classes, ranging from exercise/movement/dance groups to literature, crafts, music, discussion groups and more. Membership from July to December is $30 with no further costs.

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

Yoga and meditation

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

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

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

No previous experience is required.

Bring your own yoga mat.

Gold coin donation welcome.

Casey Cardinia Life Activities Club

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

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

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

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

Anyone interested can visit on Thursdays at 2pm for socialising and low-key dancing at Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House at 21A

Bunyip Rodeo

The Bunyip Rodeo is back for 2025. The bucking bulls, barrel racing and so much more to enjoy.

There will also be food trucks, stalls, live music prior to the rodeo action and kids amusements. There is something for all.

• To be held on Saturday 15 February at Bunyip Recreation Reserve. Gates open at 11am with rodeo action to begin from 2pm. Josh Dawson riding at last year’s rodeo (File: 385222)

Bemersyde Drive or join the club for a coffee and a chat every Wednesday from 10am at the new François cafe in front of Myer in Fountain Gate.

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

Cardinia Diabetic Awareness Group

The group meets on the second Wednesday of each month at the Pakenham Uniting Church meeting room at 10am.

The group would love to see people who have diabetes or live with someone who has diabetes attend or join.

The meeting consists of a short meeting and then a guest speaker dealing with diabetes.

• For more information, contact Lyn on 0149 116 972 or lestep12@people.net.au

BADFolk Club

Berwick and District Folk Club has been meeting at the Old Cheese Factory in Berwick for the past 22 years.

The club meets on the third Friday of each month and every month features a different genre of music.

The club also welcomes spot acts. Doors now open from 6.30pm and the music runs from 7pm to 10pm, no bookings required, entry $15.

The kitchen sells sweet and savoury snack food and a variety of drinks – tea, coffee, wine, beer, soft drinks.

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

Scrabble Club

Berwick Activities Club is hosting a Scrabble Club every Friday from 1pm to 3.30pm. It will be both competitive and social on a one-to-one basis.

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

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

• Contact David on 0433 566 456.

Uniting Church Pakenham Regional Mission Area

“Our vision as a Christian community is to honour each individual’s experience of God, while sharing the love of Jesus in a positive, safe and inclusive environment.”

Sunday’s service was conducted by Rev. Ray Mc Cluskey which looked at the theme “what does it mean to be a witness? Ray spent some time with the congregation looking at the word witness and what it means. Most of us think about the witness in a court of law. Ray looked at some of the times the word witness appears – in films, books and on TV. He showed some film clips from the movie “witness for the prosecution” which was a well known movie with Marlana Dietrich, Charles Laughton and Tyrone Power. Many people in the congregation may have remembered this movie. What does this have to do with being a witness. In 1 Corinthians what does Paul mean when

he tells us we are witness and testify to Christ as he talks of his own personal witness and testimony. Paul in his letter to the Corinthians tells us (1 Corinthians 15 1-11) we are also called to our own continuing witness of the faith, in the truth and Good News of the Easter miracle.

Paul tells us, just as Rev. Ray did, that we are also called to testify to the truth. But we all know that it can be much ore difficult to be a witness and to testify to the truth of our faith or what it is we believe.

Ray asked when the last time we witnessed to the truth of our faith? When did we say to another this is what I believe and this is the difference it is making in my life. Paul asks us to examine our hearts and our lives in how we are testifying and witnessing to the truth of the Good News.

Ray gave two poignant personal stories – on a train going to College from Pakenham to the city when there was a very upset young woman. Ray said he did nothing regrets that to this day. Another time was in the local Mc Donalds when a Mum who was very upset along with her children. Ray now found that he was able to speak to and comfort the woman – it was when God came knocking.

Just as Rev Ray said – be a witness and know that Jesus stands with us and we are loved.

Things to remember:

· Homework Hub begins again Tuesday Feb 4th

2025 3.30 – 5.30pm

· Playgroup begins again Thursday Feb 6th 2025 9.30 – 11.00am

· Beehive Craft The beginning for 2025 is 11th

February 1.30pm at Fiona’s · Church Council The next Council is Thursday February 20th 2025

· Elders Gathering Friday 7th February 1.30pm

· Friendship Group starts again on February 5th 1.30pm 2025 and Gillian is looking for suggestions for the meetings.

Please ensure that the doors are locked when you leave the building and the heating/cooling and lights are off.

Please continue to contribute to the Lazarus Food Relief which is being run by the COPTIC church who are providing hampers for the community which they distribute each Saturday at 2.00pm. A box is in the foyer for donations. Psalm 138 V1 “I give you thanks, O Lord, with my whole heart.”

SPORT

Warriors reach new heights

By Justin Schwarze

Pakenham Warriors Youth Men will be facing fresh competition and a new challenge in 2025 after they secured promotion to Youth League One on Sunday. They achieved the result via the Youth League qualification series which this year was played in Altona.

In their qualification match they faced the Camberwell Dragons who finished ninth in Youth League One last season.

In what was an extremely physical and low-scoring affair, the Warriors clawed their way to a 66-58 victory.

Pakenham took a lead into the first break despite shooting poorly from the floor.

Team captain Kaleb Beveridge was absolutely everywhere, scoring nine of the Warriors’ 17 in the opening quarter to go along with five boards.

The Dragons responded in the second frame, taking a six-point advantage with under four minutes remaining in the half.

Pakenham closed out the quarter strongly, levelling the margin with an 11-5 run capped off by two layups from Hayden Melsen.

The second half remained tightly contested, and once again Camberwell took a lead.

The Dragons knocked down a three to push their lead to four with four minutes left in the third before Pakenham took control.

A complete defensive shutout followed, as Camberwell missed their next six consecutive shots, failing to connect on a field goal for the remainder of the term.

The Warriors rode the defensive stand to build momentum and swing back into the lead, as Jye Horne and Angus Murdoch combined for the final eight points of the quarter with Pakenham in front, 51-46, entering the final break.

A Beveridge fast break dunk early in the final frame had the Warriors bench out of their seats, and Pakenham didn’t look back from there.

Back to back triples from Aaron and Ethan Small extended the lead before two Beveridge free throws saw the margin balloon to its largest of the day, being 13 with two minutes remaining.

Two late threes from Camberwell made Pakenham head coach Braden Venning raise an eyebrow, but it was too late as the Warriors settled for the eight-point win.

Overall, the Warriors defended outstandingly, holding their opponents to 31 per cent shooting and forcing 24 turnovers, showing impressive intent and aggression.

“The game was won and lost on defence, which was really cool because our big emphasis throughout preseason has been to make sure we lock in on defence with the idea of stepping up a division,” Venning said.

“To keep a team like that to 58 points was pretty

solid.”

Pakenham had offensive struggles of their own, giving away 28 turnovers and converting just under 34 per cent of their shots.

However, Venning isn’t concerned with the poor shooting numbers.

“We missed good shots; we’re process driven rather than result driven, so we were taking the right shots and we just weren’t making them,” Venning said.

“Wewantedtoincreasethepressureandincrease the pace on the ball and continue attacking the rim.

“They had three guys foul out because we just

kept putting consistent pressure on the rim.”

Beveridge’s game was on full display, leading the Warriors with a monstrous double-double of 18 points and 19 rebounds.

He also stuffed the rest of the stat sheet with five assists, four steals and a block.

“Kaleb had a monster game,” Venning said.

“He was outstanding, and he’s going to have some massive games this season.

“He had two massive plays which really ignited the crowd and the team, and he’s going to be one of our key figures.”

Beveridge was Pakenham’s MVP and made the

All-Star Five for Youth League Two last season, so he will be pivotal in the side’s pursuit for success at the next level.

Now, Pakenham will compete in the second highest division of Youth League basketball, with their eyes set on development and winning on a new stage.

“I’m absolutely stoked for the boys, we’ve been knocking on the door for a couple of years so to get the chance to go up and play at a higher level and expose these players to better coaching and better players, it’s going to be amazing for their continued development,” Venning said.

Youth Women promoted after drama down the stretch

By Justin Schwarze

It took two games of basketball and a chaotic, drama-filled final minute to see the Pakenham Warriors Youth Women promoted to the Youth League Championship for season 2025.

The Championship is the top flight of Youth League basketball in Victoria.

The women’s qualification series was played at Narrandjeri Stadium in Darebin.

The Warriors’ first game was against the Nunawading Spectres who finished seventh in the Watson conference in Championship in 2024.

The winner of the game would be granted automatic qualification.

Pakenham was on the front foot early with blisteringly-paced offence allowing them to jump to an 18-4 lead.

At the first break, the Warriors led 21-10.

Whatever was said in the Spectres’ huddle worked, as Nunawading went on a run of their own; dominating the second quarter and taking the lead.

The Warriors were smothered and countered offensively, only scoring two field goals in the frame with the rest of their 13 points coming via the free-throw line.

Nunawading got to the rim at will, scoring 16 points inside the paint to completely swing the course of the matchup.

Midway through the third, a Chelsea Schreuder free throw put Pakenham back up by one, but this would be the last time the Warriors led for the contest.

Some tough shot making, including two threes, expanded Nunawading’s advantage to double figures at the three-quarter-time break.

From there, despite some nice buckets from Stella O’Loughlin, Stephanie Nellen and Sienna Read, the Spectres were able to hold off any comeback attempts and coasted to a 16 point win, 60-76.

Taleesha O’Kane top scored with 19 points and swiped six steals for the Warriors, with O’Loughlin adding 10 points of her own.

“There were lots of positives in that game,” head coach Dave Barry noted.

“The final scoreline didn’t reflect how we played.”

However, their Youth League Championship dream wasn’t dead, with a final sudden-death matchup with the Knox Raiders.

Once again, the Warriors started off hot, taking the early advantage in the first.

O’Kane made her presence felt, scoring six points to open up the game for Pakenham and her side led 20-17 after one.

Knox’s second-quarter defence was suffocating, allowing just 10 points and generating five Warriors turnovers to completely flip the game.

At the half, the Raiders boasted a six-point lead.

The second half was back and forth, with neither side taking a bigger lead than eight, but Pakenham still trailed by five entering the final quarter.

Despite playing well in the fourth, the Warriors couldn’t get within striking distance, as Knox had possession, up by four, with just over 30 seconds to play.

Schreuder then came up huge, forcing a steal and winning possession back for the Warriors and they capitalised via a crucial three from Keauna Mills to cut the lead to just one.

On the following possession, another steal, this time from O’Loughlin, pushed Pakenham onto the fast break.

O’Loughlin finished at the rim to give the Warriors an improbable lead with just 13 seconds remaining.

However, the game was far from over.

Schreuder was overly physical as Knox went for the win, being whistled for an unsportsmanlike foul, resulting in two massive free throws and possession for the Raiders.

A sigh of relief was felt from the bench as Knox was unable to convert on either chance at the line.

With possession back due to the foul ruling, again Pakenham was too physical and sent the Raiders back to the free throw line for another chance to tie and take the lead.

Nerves were fully sinking into the Knox line up, as once again they came up empty from both free throws.

The drama didn’t end there, as the Raiders were able to corral the offensive rebound, leading to yet another Warriors foul.

A third straight trip to the line, with nerves and pressure as high as ever.

Knox inexplicably missed their fifth and sixth consecutive free throws, and Pakenham miraculously came away as one point victors, 69-68.

More importantly however, they had earned promotion to Youth League Championship.

“We built some good pressure and made some good decisions down the stretch,” Barry said.

“The girls played together and thoroughly deserved to win that game.

“If that’s our baseline moving forward, I’ll be very happy to see where they can go.”

There are lots of improvements and adjustments to be made at the next level, but the Warriors are ready for the challenge.

For now, they reflect on the achievement and progress they’ve made to reach the top division.

“There were definitely patches where we weren’t playing our best basketball but the ability to even out those highs and lows was really the key to winning,” team captain Chelsea Schreuder said.

“I’m really excited to see what our team can do at a higher level.”

Kaleb Beveridge was dominant for Pakenham, securing a double-double. (Stewart Chambers: 425710)

Stella O’Loughlin played a big role over two games for the Warriors. (Stewart Chambers: 418880)

Process the key for Lions

By Marcus Uhe

Pakenham netball coach Matthew Cooke holds no fears that a minor detour on his team’s journey to become a powerhouse team in Outer East Football Netball will prove detrimental to its overarching long-term goal.

Having turned a major corner and forced their way into the upper rungs of contention in Premier Division’s A Grade competition in 2024, the Lions will compete in Division One next year on account of being harnessed to its under-performing football club, which was relegated from the top flight at the end of the season.

It’s an unwanted and unexpected shift on the timeline for the Lions, having weathered some disappointing years to see all four senior teams qualify for finals netball at the conclusion of 2024.

Cooke said the relegation took “a fair bit of time” to process when their fate was confirmed but is extracting the positives of their predicament, and has trophies on the mind in 2025.

“To consider this year to be successful we need it to be a top-two finish, and in reality it needs to be a grand final appearance,” Cooke said.

“We’re happy enough to go where we need to go, knowing full well that because it’s not a promotion and relegation, we don’t feel like we’ve been demoted into a lower grade, we just feel like we’re in the grade that the football is playing in.

“There’s enough strong sides in (Division One A-Grade) to keep you on your toes week-by-week, although realistically we would be expecting a top-two finish.

“We’ll just take it as it comes and focus on our job, and make sure we give ourselves the best opportunity to win as many grades as we can this year.”

Much of last season’s squad that propelled the Lions up the ladder remains at Toomuc Reserve, with Jordyn Adams, second place behind Caitlin Cooke in the Jodi Chandler Medal count, the major departure after a stunning first season with the Lions.

Former captain Caitlin Jones, however, will return from a knee injury that wiped out her 2024 campaign.

An extra year of building continuity on and off the court and learning how to win in pressure moments between the posts will be the major focus of 2025.

Crucially for Cooke, the motivation is coming from within, as the sour taste of last season’s eightgoal loss to Wandin in a physical semi-final lingers.

“They’ve actually come back fitter and harder (than the previous season),” Cooke said of his play-

ers’ conditioning during the offseason.

“I think they realised last year that they were actually that close.

“To lose Kelly (Cousins) the night before (the final) was a disaster but Lara (Goodman-Hancock) has come back fitter, Millie (Utber) come back fitter, Evie Drake has come back fitter.

“The reality is, there’s three or four clubs there that are unknown to us and we know the player base and what they’re capable of, so we’re not counting our chickens before they hatch.”

Pakenham’s season begins on 5 April with one of the biggest road trips of the season to Yea.

“They all want some silverware because they realise how close they were last year and they’re not prepared to say ‘we’re going to win silverware just because we’ve been dropped.’ we’re not viewing it that way.

Seven-run onslaught guides Pumas home against Waverley

Finals are fast approaching for the Pakenham Pumas who had mixed results on the weekend in the lead up to the biggest games of the season. Here’s how the games played out.

SENIORS

FIRSTS

Pakenham Pumas Premier 2 had trouble keeping up with Cheltenham in a 6-0 loss on Saturday. Cheltenham got on the board in the fourth inning after scoring one run, against Caleb Poole who led things off on the mound for Pumas.

The pitcher allowed 11 hits and six runs (five earned) over nine innings, striking out three and walking two. Max Vetter went 2-for-4 at the plate to lead Pakenham Pumas in hits.

Cheltenham collected 11 hits in the game. Next up for Pakenham Pumas Premier 2 Firsts is a game at Bonbeach on Thursday.

RESERVES

Pakenham couldn’t keep up with Cheltenham and fell 12-2 on Saturday. Cheltenham got on the board in the top of the first inning after driving in a run, and then scoring three runs.

Dillan Collier stepped on the mound first for Pakenham. The starter allowed nine hits and 10 runs over three innings, striking out one and walking five.

Cooper Porter and James McFadden each collected one hit for Pakenham, who were sure-handed in the field and didn’t commit a single error. Daniel Hussien had the most chances in the field with seven.

STATE 4

Pakenham Pumas State 4 played Waverley at home this weekend. After a scoreless top half the Pumas opened the scoring in the first after Travis Hough doubled, scoring one run. Waverley came straight back and took the lead in the top of the second, scoring two runs, to give Waverley the leg up, 2-1.

Waverley’s lead was short lived after a home run by Mitchell Porter gave Pakenham the lead, 3-2, in the bottom of the second.

The Pumas extended their early lead with three runs in the bottom of the third thanks to RBI singles by Scott Dale, Coadhey R, and Felicity Clissold. They then put the game beyond doubt

with a seven-run onslaught in the bottom of the fourth. Three quick outs in the top of the fifth ended the game with the 10-run mercy rule coming into effect. Pakenham ended up winners with a 13-2 scoreline.

Scott Dale pitched for Pakenham allowing three hits and two runs over five innings, striking out seven and walking none. Pakenham were good with the bats accumulating 12 hits in the game. Coadhey R, Scott Dale, and Travis Hough each collected two hits for Pakenham.

Justin Mazurek and Travis Hough each drove in two runs for the Pumas, who ran wild on the base paths, tallying nine stolen bases for the game. With a bye this weekend, this is Pakenham’s last game for the regular season.

Having secured top spot on the ladder the Puma’s State Division 4 team will next play in two weeks’ time against the team that finishes the regular season in second place, in a playoff with the winner going directly to the grand final. The loser of that game will play the winner of the 3 v 4 elimination playoff game the following week to fill the last spot in the grand final.

WOMENS

Pakenham Pumas proved to be just too agile for Upwey Tigers over the weekend with a close win of 15-12. Pumas came out strong in the first inning, scoring a quick seven runs against Upwey. Strong pitching and fielding from the team stopped the Tigers from scoring any runs, the score reading 7-0. Come the next inning, the girls struggled to fight against Upwey, but scored three more, bringing their total up to 10.

With the Upwey hot on their tails, after a seven-run inning, the Pumas leaped into action, showcasing hitting from each player and smart base running. By the end of the last inning, Pakenham had scored another five runs as well as Upwey.

Pakenham Pumas brought out the big guns with hits from Emily Williams, Kirby Cannizzaro, a dynamite double-base hit from Jessica Moulding, a triple from Carni Dowsett and base hits from Jo Blackler and Katherine Walton, as well as three walks given to Jade Taylor. Emily was pitcher and took control of the game with the support from

all Pakenham Pumas players; Kirby Cannizzaro, Jo Blackler, Jade Taylor, Olivia Garcia, Kim Smith, Katherine Walton and Jessica Moulding.

WOMEN’S WHITE

Pakenham Pumas Women’s White couldn’t keep up with Chelsea and fell 18-5 on Saturday. Chelsea got on the board in the top of the first inning after scoring seven runs. Jessica Moulding stepped on the bump first for Pakenham. The starter allowed 13 hits and 18 runs (nine earned) over two and two-thirds innings, striking out seven and walking seven. Christine Sculley, Jo Blackler, and Sofia each collected one hit for Pakenham. Sculley, Blackler, Sofia, and Elena Adriani each drove in one run for the Pumas. Pakenham had patience at the plate, tallying eight walks for the game. Sarah Bailey and Adriani led the team with two walks each. Bailey, Blackler, Katherine Walton, and Sofia each stole multiple bases for Pakenham, who stole 12 for the game.

JUNIORS

BIG LEAGUE

The Big League Pumas got another early start

with a trip out to Werribee Saturday morning. Not an ideal start and probably still half asleep we gave up five in the first. We managed to claw back the score only for a few lapses in the field to give them the advantage again. We left our run too late and the seesawing score finished in their favour. A home game against Essendon this week to get us back on track.

SL90

Strong hitting was not enough as Pakenham Pumas SL90 fell 8-6 to Upwey FTG on Sunday despite out-hitting the opposition seven to six. Brock and Harvey each collected two hits for Pakenham, who got on the board in the top of the first inning after Oliver tripled, scoring one run, and Brock singled, and scoring two runs. Lachlan began the game for Pakenham.

The hurler allowed six hits and eight runs (seven earned) over four and one-third innings, striking out six and walking five. Brock, Oliver, and Harvey each drove in one run for Pakenham, who had patience at the plate, piling up 10 walks for the game. Coadhey, Lachlan, Callum, and Fionn led the team with two free passes each. Pakenham play at home on Sunday against Sandringham in their next game.

SL70

The SL70 Pakenham Pumas showed resilience and determination in their latest matchup, grinding out an 8-6 victory in challenging conditions. With winds whipping across the field, every pitch, hit, and catch became a test of focus and adaptability; but the Pumas rose to the occasion. On the mound, Logan pitched four innings and racked up 12 strikeouts. Blake took over for the final two innings, keeping the pressure on with eight more strikeouts to shut down any hopes of a comeback for Cheltenham Blue. At the plate, Blake led the charge with a well-timed double, while Logan, Ca’Del, and Eli all contributed with solid singles. Meanwhile, Beau Saddington took one for the team – literally - getting on base after being hit by a pitch. A gritty performance in tough conditions proved once again that this team is built to compete; no matter what the elements throw their way!

-Jessica Moulding-

Pakenham’s A Grade netball coach Matthew Cooke does not see playing in Division One this year as detrimental to the Lions’ long-term goals. (Stewart Chambers: 335968)

Carni Dowsett played a key role in Pakenham’s 15-12 victory over Upwey. (Stewart Chambers: 440004)

Amos annoying for Anning

By David Nagel

Resilience came in two forms on Saturday‘strong’ and ‘wafer-thin’ - as two finals contenders hunted down outright points in round 12 of Casey Cardinia Premier Division cricket.

While Upper Beaconsfield (7/136 off 80 overs) took ‘annoyance levels’ to new heights in its second innings against a frustrated Pakenham at Toomuc Reserve, Devon Meadows (68 off 36 overs) capitulated in the meekest of styles; handing Cardinia outright points at Glover Reserve.

Let’s begin with the ‘strong’ resilience first, with Upper Beaconsfield’s Ben Amos (27 off 205 balls) showing unbelievable levels of concentration to deny a desperate Pakenham outright points at Pakenham.

The Maroons were horrible on day one, making 116 in 49.1 overs, before Chris Smith (72 not out) led the Lions (1/121 declared) to first innings points in just 20 overs.

Pakenham skipper Jack Anning then pulled the right rein; sending the Maroons to the crease for a tricky four-over spell prior to stumps on day one.

Sendhil Naidu struck an early blow for the Lions; the Maroons 1/15 at the close of play with Marcus Gehling on 14 not out and Daniel Brennan yet to score when play resumed on Saturday.

The Lions couldn’t have asked for a better start to the second day, with Brennan (4), Scott Pitcher (10) and Gehling (28) all back in the hut after 10 overs.

Amos then joined Josh Westra (34 off 101 balls) for a 52-run partnership that took 35 overs to assemble; frustrating the life out of Pakenham.

Westra was in ‘over-drive’ mode compared to Amos, with his 101 balls including one boundary and one six.

He departed in over 49 with the Lions requiring a ‘gettable’ five wickets from roughly 30 overs to secure maximum points.

But Amos was having none of it and dug deep even further.

Some of the stats of his innings are quite remarkable, considering he had nothing to play for except for personal and club pride.

An outright defeat would have made no difference to the Maroons; who were consigned to zero match-points after their horror day-one showing.

Amos only scored off 17 deliveries in his innings; patting 188 dot balls back to the bowler and took 173 deliveries to score his one and only boundary for the day.

That rush of blood was soon reined in however; with Amos not scoring from his 15 remaining deliveries before bails were flicked for the afternoon.

When his score was on 14, he faced 36 consecutive balls without scoring, and also had stints of 21, 20, 16 and 15 (twice) without bothering the scorers.

For comparison, Kooweerup’s Chris Bright faced eight less deliveries on his way to 205 not out against Merinda Park in round four!

Amos’s innings was impressive; not equally as Bright’s…but impressive all the same, and backed up his 13 from 71 balls from day one.

Acrossthetwodayshescored40runsfrom276 balls; at a strike rate of 14.50, and single-handedly saved his team from outright defeat.

The fail to secure maximum points shouldn’t hurt the Lions in the long-run.

They currently sit fourth, six points clear of Clyde, and will start a warm favourite against a disappointing Devon Meadows this Saturday.

Win that and they should lock away a finals berth with Clyde to start ‘huge’ underdogs against reigning premiers Tooradin this week.

As mentioned, it shouldn’t hurt the Lions but they are still slightly vulnerable with two rounds remaining in the season.

Slip up against the Panthers this week and a round-14 clash against Tooradin awaits!

Will Haines (10 off 26) and Billy Gerrard-Kett (15 off 51) helped Amos to safety in the latter overs of the match, while James Close (3/13 off 12) and Marcus Martini (2/35 off 15) took bowling honours for the Lions on a day where all bowling figures looked particularly tidy.

While Upper Beaconsfield dug in for the fight, Devon Meadows (111 and 68) was the juxtaposition of resilient as the Panthers waved the white flag against Cardinia (3/117d and 0/68).

Declaring overnight with a three-run lead, the Bulls made surprisingly easy progression; having the Panthers eight wickets down after just 23 overs at the crease.

The pain started early for the Panthers, with

Zac Bates (0) having his castle knocked over by Trishane De Silva (1/13) with the second ball of day two.

The home side was soon 2/13 after Josh Browne (1/4) found the outside edge of Nathan Kleinig’s (3) bat, before Josh Grogan (4/18 off 9) and Yohan Arumadura (2/21) went to work on the middle order.

Grogan was the main instigator for Cardinia, taking the important wicket of Lucas Ligt (7) before finding himself on a hat-trick just three overs further down the track.

GroganhadEthanWood(8)snickonethrough to a busy Bradey Welsh behind the stumps, before Ben Marsh (0) was trapped in front first ball.

Mitchell Kleinig survived the hat-trick ball, but became Arumadura’s second scalp; with Welsh taking a hot chance up to the stumps.

Grogan then took his fourth when Coby Podd (0) sliced one to Alex Nooy in slips, before Jamie Cape (17) and Ricky Mitchell (10) finally showed some backbone.

Number nine and 10 for the Panthers batted for 12 overs, before Bulls’ skipper Mark Cooper (1/1) trapped Cape in front with a full one.

Travis Wheller (1/6) then ended the innings in the next over when Mitchell found a leading edge and lobbed one back to the bowler.

While Grogan, Arumadura, Browne, De Silva, Cooper and Wheller all claimed wickets for the Bulls; the Panthers had very little to celebrate. Cape, batting at nine, was their top scorer while Mitchell and Zac Shepherd (10) were the only others to reach double figures.

The Panthers’ pain continued after the tea break with Alex Nooy (28 not out) and Wheller (39 not out) making light work of the 66 runs required for maximum points.

Nooy now sits number three on the CCCA Premier Division batting list with 464 runs at a tick over 50.

Wheller also looked in good touch, hitting six fours in a confident-looking display after claiming four wickets on day one.

The talented right-hander - one of the best all-rounders in Premier - is slowly closing in on his best form.

Cardinia, now top of the ladder, hosts bottom-placed Merinda Park this week, while the Panthers will look to bounce back in a home

game against Pakenham.

Kooweerup (5/272) has put a huge dent in the finals prospects of Clyde (176) and basically secured its own place in this year’s semi-finals after a commanding batting performance at Denhams Road.

Resuming at 1/0, Chris Bright (46) and Cody Miller (16) halted the new-ball damage for the Demons, with Bright savaging seven boundaries and a six in his 38 balls at the crease.

Praveen Perera (2/50) gave the Cougars a glimmer of hope, removing Miller and Bright, to have the Demons at 3/62, before the home sides’ enormous batting depth took control.

In a great sign for the Demons moving forward, Luke McMaster (93) was back to his brilliant best, belting nine fours and two maximums in 98 balls of class.

McMaster is one of the best players in the CCCA Premier Division but, until Saturday, hadn’t quite set fire with the willow.

Saturday’s half century was his fourth for the season, and second on the trot, as the hard-hitting all-rounder took his tally to 360 for the season.

McMaster shared an 81-run partnership with Shiran Rathnayake (44), before joining forces with Steven Dillon (56 not out) for an 88-run union.

Rathnayake’s knock was his best since the Christmas break, while Dillon’s unbeaten half century backed up his most previous knock of 49 in round 10.

The Demons are all hitting form at precisely the right time of the season in a worrying sign for the fellow premiership hopefuls.

Perera and Nick Shannon (2/50) battled hard for the Cougars, who now need to defeat Tooradin and Cardinia to be any chance of playing finals.

Kooweerup’s schedule is a lot less demanding; visiting Upper Beaconsfield in round 13 before a home game against Devon Meadows.

The Maroons and Panthers - sixth and seventh respectively – are the only teams with little motivation heading into the final two games of the season.

And Tooradin (6/270) is one step closer to a home semi-final after the reigning premiers held off a strong challenge from bottom-placed Mer-

inda Park (229).

The Cobras lost a couple of quick ones early, but fighting knocks from Cambell Bryan (33), Charl Van Den Heever (83) and Pawan Thind (20) brought the underdogs back into the game. Van Den Heever, playing his best knock in Cobras’ colours, guided the visitors into a strong position at 3/141…before Dylan Sutton (6/63 off 16) puffed out his chest and went to work.

Sutton, who had already claimed the early wicket of Ash Slater (2), took the next five wickets to fall; reducing the Cobras to 8/154 in a hurry.

Sutton started the rot in over 43; removing Van Den Heever bowled, before getting Tyson Bertrand (0) to tickle one through to Ben Parrott behind the stumps next ball.

Stand-in skipper Bevin Corneille (69 not out) saw off the hat-trick ball, but couldn’t plug the hole that was developing at the other end.

Sutton removed Thind, Adam Fisher (0) and Luke Dinger (1) in quick succession to leave the visitors in all sorts of trouble.

Corneille, however, showed great resilience as the skipper, sharing a 72-run partnership with number-10 Matt Dennerley (17) that threatened to cause a boil over.

Corneille made runs in a hurry, smacking Bailey Lownds for two sixes in an over, as the Cobras fought back hard.

With 12 overs remaining the Cobras required 45 runs to win, at a rate of less than four, with two wickets left in the tank.

The unfortunate run out of Dennerley changed the complexion of the game once again, with young-gun Tyler Evans (2/50) wrapping things up for the Gulls just four balls later.

The Seagulls had survived a scare and now sit pretty in second place on the ladder with the destiny of a home semi-final sitting squarely on their own shoulders.

They can’t ask for more than that; while Merinda Park can now just sit back and enjoy their last two games in Premier Division before being relegated to District next season.

Saturday’s run-chase sort of summed up the Cobras’ season…so close, but not once getting across the line.

The winless Cobras head to Cardinia this week while the Seagulls face another tough challenge at Clyde.

Determined pair Ben Amos and Josh Westra frustrated the life out of Pakenham. (Stewart Chambers: 456368)