News - Berwick Star News - 27th February 2025

Bright smiles for the show

Decked from head to neck in garlands, colourful necklaces and bejewelled harnesses, the Llama Association of Australasia made the weekend’s Berwick Show as their personal red carpet, with smiles and smirks from the cheeky animals as they fluttered their eyelashes at passers-by.

Gayle Herring from Macclesfield and Ross Meivandt walked their llamas around the show. (Gary Sissons: 459951)

Chaos reflection

By Ethan Benedicto

The City of Casey’s mayor, Stefan Koomen has reflected on the gallery’s behaviour during the first council meeting as “disappointing”, as it was adjourned to the next date.

In an exclusive interview with Star News,

Koomen added that he understands that there might be some misunderstandings as to how council meetings operate. While he acknowledged the public’s interest in the council’s work, the mayor said he and the rest of the council “felt unsafe”.

Those in attendance were adamant that an open mic should be an option, and that real-time conversation between them and the councillors become the norm moving forward.

The thought was not entertained by Koomen, however, and he clarified that council meetings

are not the platform for open debate.

While he understood that there were many “genuine residents” who attended, he emphasised that he did not want the meeting to reflect the City of Casey as a whole. Coverage inside

Tragedy spurs plea

By Ethan Benedicto

The grief of losing a loved one is unforgettable and for Regis and Marita Roussell, there is pain and a tightness in their chest after their son Danny was lost to an accident at BelgraveHallam Road.

The tragic incident on 15 January unfurled after a Ford ute veered into the path of a Mazda sedan after overtaking two vehicles, both subsequently losing control.

It just so happened that Danny Roussel, the 33-year-old son of Regis and Marita was on his way home from his usual routine run at Frog Hollow Reserve.

Just before 3pm, he was struck and killed.

Both Regis, the father, and Marita, the mother, described the loss as horrific and life-changing.

Regis recalled the day they heard the news, he recalled that when Marita heard it, “she was really lost”.

“They had to ring an ambulance for her when we were at the police station, she was just all over the floor and it was, it was grief in its rawest form.

“We heard the news, and we had an inkling, but then it became the final nail in the coffin,” he said.

Danny loved everything fitness, he held a PhD in physiotherapy and had been in the profession for well over a decade.

Marita said that her son “lived for his fitness”.

“He jogged every single day, if not gym, he would jog, or both, and on weekends, he’d be up at you know, 5.30am, he was a very active guy,” she said.

The love from others has been overwhelming, according to the family, with family and friends showing and voicing their support.

Nevertheless, the family is still “not coping”.

“I was at counselling today, and Marita had a visit to her psychiatrist on Tuesday, that’s what we have to go through non-stop,” Regis said.

Both lamented on the loss, that with Danny still living at home, it felt emptier than before as the family never grew tired of each other, of the busyness of the home.

Their eldest daughter, Lisa, is also grieving, and for Marita, it felt as if the family had been given a “life sentence”.

“She’s not coping, and Danny still lived at home, so we were a close family, very close,” they both said.

“We miss him you know? Him walking up and down the area, we still see his things around, and we’re kind of just waiting for him to come through the door after his run.”

Close family friend Charlotte Cox shares the family’s pain and has pledged to herself and them to be their voice of change.

After hearing the news, and seeing the support from friends and peers at work online, Charlotte felt that something could be done.

“What we were discussing was that we were concerned about where the barriers on that road are placed,” she said.

“There’s no protection between the edge of the road and the footpath.

“So I would think that the State Government have a duty of care, that if they were putting a footpath beside a main road, there should be some form of protection for pedestrians, runners, or someone walking their child.”

While Marita couldn’t find it within herself to visit the site of the accident, Regis did, and from what he saw, it wasn’t difficult to surmise that “it’s very dangerous”.

“Where Danny was jogging, it’s very close to the road, when some car goes past, you can feel the wind that it creates,” he said.

For them, it’s simple - change the speed limit.

The family is aware that other traffic calming devices are out of the question, considering the arterial nature of the road, but at the same time, there seems to be no hope when it comes to changing people’s behaviour on the roads.

“You can’t change silly people’s minds,” they all said, adding that if people wanted to see how fast their car could go, they should “take it somewhere else, not where people are going to be”.

Growing up, it seemed to be destiny that Danny involved himself with all things active, being an avid Geelong Cats supporter since birth - a family trait according to Regis - he found himself engrossed in footy.

While he played all kinds of sports, from cricket to soccer, he always found himself on the oval field, winning the local premiership when he played for the under-16s in Noble Park.

“Everyone loved Danny, even his friends, they come here now, and they adored him, everyone, he just had this charisma on him,” both parents said.

“It was difficult for his friends to hear the

news, they loved him, and even his boss came and they said they still couldn’t believe it.

“It shows how much he meant to them, to the people.”

Charlotte recalled that Danny was the “kind of person who gave so much of his time to so many people, but didn’t expect anything back”.

Danny graduated with a Bachelor of Science at Melbourne University in 2015, and in the break, took his one last leap of freedom to visit the United States with Charlotte’s family, before returning to become a full-time physiotherapist.

Charlotte, alongside the family’s eldest daughter Lisa, is advocating for change, and hopes are in the air as she’s expecting to meet with local Narre Warren North MP Belinda Wilson in the coming weeks.

“There’s hard work for these changes to be made, and we want that barrier moved,” she said.

“The speed limit to be reduced as well, because the pedestrians need to be protected.”

When asked how the family deals with the grief, Regis and Marita simply said “we can’t”.

“We all sit here, in the living room, my daughter would sit opposite us, and we just sort of look at each other.

“We’re still in shock, I don’t know, we don’t say much, the TV’s going in the background but we’re not there.

“I mean, we’re here, but life is gone, that’s the only way to explain it.”

Police beat

Alleged hit-run

A 20-year-old Cranbourne North man has been charged following an alleged hit-andrun collision in Seaford on Saturday 22 February.

Officers were told that a cyclist was travelling at the rear of a group of other cyclists along the Nepean Highway when he was allegedly struck by a blue VW Gold at around 7.55am.

The 53-year-old cyclist came off his bike and was treated at the scene for non-life-threatening injuries.

Police have alleged that the driver of the VW Golf fled the scene after the collision occurred.

The Cranbourne North suspect has since been charged with reckless conduct endangering life, dangerous driving, careless driving, the failure to render assistance and the failure to exchange details.

He was bailed to appear before Moorabbin Magistrate’s Court on 3 April. Teenager arrested

A 13-year-old boy has been arrested by police following an aggravated carjacking in Cranbourne.

Police were told that two friends were sitting in their car, in a carpark off Thompsons Road when they were approached by a male around 12.10am on Tuesday 25 February.

The pair engaged the boy in conversation before he made demands for the car and produced a knife. The two young women ran from the vehicle before they were able to raise the alarm.

Cranbourne police members responded quickly, and the teen was arrested as he tried to run from the scene. The Cranbourne boy was interviewed and charged with aggravated carjacking.

It was expected that he would appear before a children’s court where police would seek his remand.

The women, aged 18 and 19, were not physically injured. Four held

A vehicle that was stolen from a Cranbourne West home has allegedly been the ride of choice for four teenagers after they were arrested for aggravated burglary in Kew.

It is alleged that a stolen BMW arrived at a property on Sackville Street at around 4am on 24 February, where four male offenders allegedly got out of the vehicle and forced entry into the house.

There, they confronted a female occupant who was in bed.

They allegedly demanded keys and stole a mobile phone, wallet, and jewellery, whilst the male occupant called Triple Zero.

The two victims in the home were not physically injured and the offenders fled on foot.

The Dog Squad and Air Wing searched for the teens, who allegedly jumped over fences at nearby properties.

They were located on Bramley Court where they were all arrested. The four teenagers, aged 14 to 16, were taken into custody where they were set to be interviewed.

Regis (left) and Marita (right) Roussel, holding a memorial portrait of their son, Danny. (Ethan Benedicto: 461020_01)

Disappointment and hope

By Ethan Benedicto

Following the adjournment of the first meeting of the year for Casey Council on Tuesday 18 February, Mayor Stefan Koomen voiced his disappointment with the gallery’s behaviour.

In an interview with Star News, he reflected on the experience, admitting that “it was not something I’ve experienced before”, and despite so added that he and the other councillors handled it as best as they could.

During the 15-minute intermission before the meeting’s official adjournment, the crowd sentiment was strong, and tempers flared.

One resident said that how the council conducted the meeting was “absolutely disgusting” and that they’re “just providing lip service”.

Adam, another Casey resident said that “the councillors aren’t actually listening to us”.

“We should have it open (the mic), so they can actually listen to the people.

“They’re controlling the narrative, and everyone heard and saw it, there were people who had registered questions but it seems like they vetted them,” he said.

Regarding the process of meetings, Koomen said that registered questions are “common practice for public meetings across all councils in Victoria”.

“I acknowledge that a lot of genuine residents did attend, and maybe this was their first meeting and they weren’t aware of the agenda

and how meetings operate.

“I do hope that there was an opportunity to understand that this is how local government operates and there is a process for admitting your questions,” he said. Speaking once more on the behaviour of the gallery, Koomen added he, alongside the other councillors, “felt unsafe”, and that those residents with genuine concerns were drowned out by the “abusive and intimidating behaviour”.

There is a genuine want from himself and the council as a whole to continue with open public meetings, however, he said that there must be a focus on ensuring that they do not go in “in that fashion”.

Despite the unruly behaviour, Koomen saw the large attendance and the way the public voiced their concerns as a “reflection that the community is interested”, and that the people remain engaged with what it is that they are

seeking from their new councillors.

“I don’t want that meeting to be a reflection of the Casey community because I genuinely don’t think that the incidents and the individuals who were there to disrupt and intimidate is a reflection of the people,” Koomen said.

“It’s important that we take that away because some people had their questions there, it doesn’t mean that those questions are more valid than others, and the conversations that we’re having with residents every day.”

In a Facebook post on Wednesday 19 February, his direct response was that “this behaviour is not welcome and will not be tolerated”.

“We had a number of residents attending the meeting in good faith, expecting to hear a response to their questions.

“Unfortunately they, along with our staff and my fellow councillors, were subjected to threatening behaviour,” he said.

Meanwhile the idea of an open mic was echoed widely throughout the entire meeting, with residents confidently and constantly yelling out their questions and demanding ad-hoc queries to be addressed on the spot.

Casey resident couple Melinda and Aaron said that a podium with a mic “is necessary”.

“The council is meant to be representing us, there was someone who was answering all the questions, but, who are they?

“The actual councillors looked bored, while those at the very back were the only ones that

spoke,” they both said.

Koomen doubled down on registered questions, however, that its current process is “common practice in councils”.

“I’ve spoken to a number of other mayors and it’s certainly the way that public questions are addressed in a public meeting, it’s not an opportunity for a back-and-forth debate.

“It’s an opportunity to have your question voiced and to have it responded, and we did that,” he said.

Speaking once more on greater opportunities for the community to voice their concerns, Koomen remains strong-willed that “as new councillors, we are out there every day in our community”.

“Talking with residents, listening, and I think that’s the most important thing, having those conversations and understanding people’s concerns.

“(However), the public meeting is not the forum for that, there are opportunities for public questions but we want to have good conversations with residents and we’re doing that.

“We’re available and I think that’s the important message that we want the residents to hear.

“That we’re here to represent you and if you do have concerns, you can raise them with us,” he said.

Koomen said there are no plans to resume the adjourned meeting until the next gathering scheduled for March.

Casey residents decry ‘indirect’ and ‘unhelpful’ answers

By Violet Li

Community members say they are unhappy with the “indirect”, “unhelpful”, and “irrelevant” answers to their submitted questions at Tuesday’s Casey Council Meeting, calling for a better communication format between the council and the residents.

Resident Anthony Tassone, who was present at the meeting and also ran for the Casey Council Election last year, said that even though the council staff read his question and their answer, his question was, in essence, not answered.

“It was a simple and direct question asking whether the newly elected councilors would undertake advocacy to the Victorian Planning Minister as other councils had done with waste facilities in their municipalities,” he said.

“And it was not answered.”

Resident Garry Page, who attended the meeting and also ran for the Casey Council Election last year, also said the answer was unrelated to his question.

“That is a problem,” he said.

“My question has a simple yes or no answer. If I resubmit the question, it will just be dismissed as an answer has already been given.”

Anthony said he witnessed frustration amongst attendees that questions weren’t be-

ing directly responded to.

“I was standing at the back of the room, and people around me were getting increasingly annoyed,” he noted.

“The people that were surrounding me were not the verbal interjectors and hecklers. They were simply muttering under their breath and shaking their heads.”

Tuesday’s Casey Council Meeting on 18 February was met with chaos and disruption. It was adjourned after hundreds of residents shouted and heckled, prompting a police callout.

Tensions were high from the beginning, but escalating anger and frustration were observed after the public question time. After the council officers read through 60 submitted questions, quite a few residents demanded the councillors, and the council officers, answer their questions on-site.

Other residents in the front row, where the question submitters were seated, stood up after 60 questions being read and questioned where their questions and answers were. They claimed that they had submitted the questions, but their questions were not read and answered.

Mayor Koomen then said in the meeting that all questions received that met the governance rules were responded to at the meeting. He said that three questions that were not responded to would receive an email.

Garry said he was not surprised when the whole room erupted to protest the failure to answer all public questions and ensure the meeting conformed to governance requirements.

Anthony said many attendees thought they could ask questions from the floor as an open forum, and when they found out they couldn’t, that angered some people.

He also said many residents assumed these were answers that were coming from the newly elected councillors, but it was from council officers who had prepared them.

Resident Ray Dalli, who attended the meeting, also noticed that the format of the meeting was unfamiliar to many attendees.

“They were expecting that to be the meeting where they could turn up, ask questions, and get some answers, and they didn’t understand the format of council meetings about pre-registering questions,” he noted.

Ray, who didn’t get a satisfactory answer either, said the council needed to make the public question time informal.

He said the current format of public questions was just a matter of getting everything on the record, and people never really got the answers they wanted.

“Council officers run the responses through all their legal advisers to make sure they don’t incriminate themselves when they respond,” he said.

“That’s why it has to be an unrecorded meeting for them to answer the questions in an informal manner.

“I think they need to be able to answer the questions. They’re easy questions to answer because the bylaws are pretty clear on private land use permits.

“They just need to put it in a way of communication or a terminology that the resident will understand.”

When asked if they would consider an informal public question format to facilitate the residents’ understanding of local policies and issues, City of Casey Manager Communications and Corporate Governance Chloe Casey said: “The public question time process is outlined under section 65 of the City of Casey’s Governance Rules. The process requiring questions to be submitted ahead of the meeting is standard across many councils.

“If a resident is seeking further information around a specific topic, they are encouraged to speak directly to their ward councillor or contact council to discuss further with a council officer.

“Council will be sharing information with the community in the coming weeks to provide clarity around the process for submitting a public question and to explain how Council Meetings are run.”

City of Casey’s newly elected mayor and councillor Stefan Koomen.

New features a big success

By Afraa Kori

This year, Berwick Show’s new attractions - the Sandy Creek Clydesdales and the Heritage Draught Horse Club - proved to be major crowd-pleasers.

While the woodchop event continued to draw large crowds and remain a beloved part of the show along with our traditional agricultural, horticulture, livestock, craft, cooking, photography, art and school displays.

The owners of Sandy Creek Clydesdales, Jaimie and Matthew Thompson, cherish the stories and emotions their Clydesdales evoke in people, calling it the highlight of the show.

“We had a gentleman who lost his Clydesdale last year and he had a lovely moment with our guys remembering his past horse.

“They were a lovely crowd, lots of wonderful questions and stories shared. People often like to know where the Clydesdales originated from, what they’re used for nowadays and what we do with them.

“Everyone was very friendly and approachable and we had a very good interaction with the show. We are very flexible, as we go into a show not knowing the crowds.

“People only had well wishes about our blacksmithing and Clydesdale displays, they enjoyed the cool spray from the misting hose as well.”

This encouraging response motivates them to consider returning for future Berwick Shows.

Unfortunately, the new attractions had to adapt to the tough conditions as a total fire ban was in effect on both days - announced just one day prior.

On Saturday, a fierce storm swept through the showgrounds, and Sunday experienced intermittent wind and rain, causing damage to some traders’ marquees.

Jaimie and Matthew Thompson packed misting hoses to provide relief from the heat for both themselves and their horses, along with ensuring adequate shade. They also organised total fire

ban permits to allow displays to proceed when possible, as the wind caused issues.

Despite the challenges, the event went ahead successfully thanks to the resilience and dedication of the committee, volunteers, and community.

Berwick and District Agricultural and Horticultural Society Inc president Sharon Geoffrey highlighted that the key takeaway from this year’s event is that, no matter the weather, “the show will go on”.

“Our team took it all in their stride and made

Dinner FUNDRAISER

the necessary changes as required,” she said.

“Our committee generally believes every show is a success if it puts smiles on the faces of all those who attend.

“I believe it’s very important to continue with the region’s agricultural and horticulture heritage.

“The continued success is a combination of many people over many years all with one thing in common; a passion in keeping the tradition of the Berwick Show going and I feel privileged to have been a part of the show’s history.”

Magpie shot with an arrow

Conservation Regulator Victoria is seeking information about two separate incidents where Australian magpies were shot with arrows.

The birds were found on 1 February 2025 in Narre Warren and 7 February in Seaford; it is not believed that the two incidents are connected.

According to a Conservation Regulator spokesperson, they have “opened an investigation into two separate incidents in which Australian magpies were shot with arrows”.

“We are seeking information from the public after the magpies were found, sadly died as a result of their injuries,” they said.

All wildlife in the state are protected under the Wildlife Act 1975, with the Conservation taking all allegations of wildlife crime seriously, and have urged anyone with more information to contact 136 186.

According to the Act, it is illegal to hunt, take, destroy, injure, or interfere with wildlife without authorisation.

in February.

Offenders face maximum penalties of more than $9,870 and/or six months imprisonment. Alternatively, anonymous reports can be made via Crime Stoppers Victoria on 1800 333 000, or by visiting crimestoppersvic.com.au.

Two magpies were shot with arrows at Narre Warren and Seaford

(On File)

Maya, 4, from Carrum riding.

Don Buchanan part of the Berwick and District Woodworkers Club Inc.

Young Mercedes clowning around.

Sandy Creek Clydesdales. Fiona Bennett with young Mackenzie from Berwick.

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NEWS Samuel hits the stage

By Ethan Benedicto

As the temperature soared and the stage set, it didn’t take long for Samuel Rowland to find his footing during his powerful performance at the Berwick Show.

Held on Saturday 22 February, Samuel was booked in for the 10:15am time slot, singing two songs, singing Swingin’ On The Golden Gate with his carer, and Glory To God in the Highest with sister duo Tanjil and Sienna Adams.

Michelle Rowland, Samuel’s mum, was beside herself with pride and joy, with Samuel’s performance and also with the love that was shown by the crowd.

“I loved it, it really was a blessing for me to witness so much love for my son,” she said.

“My daughter, who had the same condition, her life was very closed, we had therapists and teachers and doctors involved, but on the day I had to return her to the Lord, there were so many people, it was amazing.

“God has made me realise how many lives Samuel has touched and that was great for me to see.”

Recalling Samuel’s determination to “see things through” once he has begun, Michelle was all the more impressed when it came to preparing the performance.

Samuel was born with the generic disease of Dravet Syndrome, and was also diagnosed with autism, yet despite this, Michelle said that he was a boy who gave it his all during the performance.

From the ear microphones, and the sound checks, to smiling for photos, it all went smoothly that Michelle said she was “speechless”.

“The sound checks, the introduction to the backstage, that wasn’t part of the plan but Samuel went along with it like a superstar.

“Family, friends, everyone came to meet him at the back, and it was just something else,” she said.

Furthermore, she commended the Adams sisters for their performance as well, being able to play alongside her son to that degree, despite only having one rehearsal session.

“You know, this whole experience is a blessing, I’m trying to come up with all these words but my mind is just blank,” Michelle said.

“But, we’re blessed, we’re blessed to be living in a place where my child and the things that he loves doing are appreciated and encouraged.”

Samuel Rowland took centre stage, with nothing else but singing his heart out on his mind. (Gary Sissons: 457852)

One of the bigger crowds during the morning performances attended Samuel’s melodies. (457852)

From left to right, Tanjil Adams, Samuel Rowland, Indira Srikanth (Samuel’s carer) and Sierra Adams. (457852)

Samuel with his mum, Michelle Rowland, and dad Kiran Rowland. (457852)

Samuel’s family and friends celebrated after the show. (457852)

Samuel performing with (from left to right) Sierra Adams, carer Indira Srikanth and Tanjil Adams. (457852)

Therapy dog Smudgee. (Ljubica Vrankovic: 460448)

Waste going to parliament

By Violet Li

The community is set to expect a parliamentary debate on the proposed Hampton Park Waste Transfer Station in weeks ahead after a local MP tabled two petitions in parliament last week.

Opposition MP for South-Eastern Metropolitan Region Ann-Marie Hermans tabled two petitions in parliament on 18 and 19 February to stop the construction of the proposed Hampton Park waste transfer station.

Two petitions with more than 4000 signatures requested that the State Government overturn the planning approval of the proposed waste transfer station and reject a separate development licence application that is being assessed by Environment Protection Authority (EPA) Victoria. The petitions also asked the State Government to investigate the processes that led to the planning permit application being approved by the City of Casey.

Ms Hermans said an ensuing parliamentary debate would be in around April or May as there were several other petitions qualified for debate ahead of hers.

She said as a local woman, she had tremendous empathy for people living in the area.

“I’ve got friends that also live in the area, and it’s just appalling to think that in a first-world country like Australia, we can have a waste transfer system built so close to residential areas without even having an understanding, not just of the environmental impact, but also what is this going to do to these residential homes and people and their families,” she said.

“What are the health risks for everybody?

“And this is untried. It’s unheard of in firstworld countries.”

Ms Hermans said the locals were getting stonewalled.

“It’s really important that the people are heard and that their concerns are heard,” she said.

When inquired, Narre Warren South MP Gary

Maas said the landfill and waste transfer station were being taken advantage of for political purposes during State, Federal and Council elections.

“This has resulted in some candidates making promises to close the landfill immediately and stop the waste transfer station. These are false promises that I will not make. I have always worked in the best interests of my constituents,” he said.

“There are contracts in place for our waste to be processed at the site. The State Government’s recycling plan and the waste transfer station are essential parts of a circular economy to tackle climate change for all Victorians, now and into the future.

“The waste transfer station is a part of that overarching plan with the council following the planning process for the site, and the EPA is responsible for the oversight of the operations.

”If there are issues with the waste transfer station, then let’s look at the design and other issues to reduce any impacts to the nearby community.”

He said when the operator Veolia had breached conditions of its licence, then they should be properly held to account by the regulator, the EPA.

“Indeed, the EPA has recently initiated proceedings against Veolia regarding alleged breaches at the site,” he said.

Mr Maas said he would continue to work with residents on how the Hallam Road Landfill and the waste transfer station were run and operated to reduce impacts on affected residents.

Opposition MP for South-Eastern Metropolitan Region Ann-Marie Hermans in a protest outside Hallam Road Landfill in 2022. (Supplied)

Concerns jobs on the line

By Violet Li

Workers at glass manufacturer Oceania Glass say they are facing a hard employment market, burdens to pay bills and mortgages, and mounting pressure to support their families if the business cannot find a buyer and has to be shut down.

They also called for the government to support the manufacturing industry.

The 169-year-old glass manufacturer based in Dandenong South, which employs much of its 261 workforces, 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.

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.

Glass worker Dwayne Gore, who has been working at Oceania Glass for 30 years, said people working here were hard workers, and they all had mortgages, children, and families.

“What they do here is actually extraordinary. You only have to walk down that plant where they’re making the glass, and you’ll understand the actual techniques and skills that the people have got here,” he said.

“People have given up their time, come in on weekends, done the hard work.”

He has been worried about the younger crowd who just landed in this industry.

“There are people here that need to go find a job if the business goes down. It’s hard enough out there to try and find something even if it wasn’t closing down,” he said.

“The government needs to do something about it.”

Ulrich Prince, who has also been working at the business for 30 years, said he still needed to find another job if things went downhill.

He said it was a hard employment market for someone who had been in a specialised industry.

“We are the only glass manufacturer in Australia. Once we’re gone, everything else will be

brought in from overseas,” he said.

“As soon as that happens, their prices will go up. Everyone will be paying more for their shower screens, their windows and everything else that we do here.”

Mr Prince said he might have to find a job outside of his skill or get retrained.

“I’ve got bills to pay. I’ve got a mortgage. I’ve got children. It’s going to be tough.

“It’s devastating in the fact that we’re one big family here. Everyone has known each other for

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years and years. It’s like a family breaking up.”

Lachlan Mccracken, who just started the work a year ago, said he was worried about his future career. He may have to switch to other fields.

He said that as the government had been transitioning away from coal-powered and gas-powered energies, the manufacturing industry was hit hard. “I like that the government is supporting that just transition, but they need to support the manufacturing first,” he said.

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Workers at glass manufacturer Oceania Glass said they were facing a hard employment market, burdens to pay bills and mortgages, and mounting pressure to support their families if the business could not find a buyer and had to be shut down. (Rob Carew: 460999)

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Help them out, says union

By Violet Li

The Victorian Branch of the Australian Workers’ Union (AWU) is calling on the Federal Government to support glass manufacturing as the country’s only glass manufacturer, Oceania Glass, has recently gone into administration.

The union is encouraged by the announcement by the Prime Minister to back the Whyalla steelworks and calls on him to extend the same industry support to Oceania Glass.

The AWU argues that Oceania Glass, which employs 260 workers and produces 165,000 tonnes of flat glass annually, deserves similar consideration.

“The Prime Minister’s decision to save Whyalla shows the government understands the importance of protecting our sovereign manufacturing capabilities. We need that same recognition for Australia’s last remaining glass manufacturer,” AWU Victorian Secretary Ronnie Hayden said.

“Oceania Glass isn’t just another manufacturer. It’s the only float glass manufacturing line in Australasia. Once these skills and capabilities are lost, they’re gone forever.

“We can’t afford to let another critical industry disappear from our shores.

“We have seen our last sovereign plastic manufacturer Qenos shut up shop and leave in the last few months. This is urgent, I can’t state it any more plainly than that.”

Mr Hayden said the union had been seeing enterprises in their commercial districts evaporating by the month.

“It is because other countries are outmaneuvering us, knowing that once we can’t do it ourselves, we’ll be at their beck and call,” he said.

“The Future Made In Australia is more than a catchphrase, it’s our members’ livelihoods.”

Housing Minister Claire O’Neil toured the Dandenong facility with AWU officials on Friday 21 February, to witness the operation and meet with workers whose livelihoods hang in the balance.

“We’re really concerned about what’s been happening on-site here over the last few months,” she said.

Mr Hayden said the current situation of Oceania Glass was the direct result of weak anti-dumping laws that had allowed cheap imported glass to flood the country’s market.

“I’m seeing a tsunami of glass arriving at construction sites across Melbourne. The reg-

ulator can’t keep up. We need the Feds to give the Anti-Dumping Commission a cash injection so they can grow some teeth and enforce the laws we already have,” he said.

“We need a cop on the beat bringing prosecutions in weeks to months.”

Mr Hayden said Oceania Glass wrote to the Anti-dumping Commission in August last year and asked them to fix up the problem, but the Commission said they might have an answer by April this year.

“Nine months is just not acceptable,” he said.

“We’re not saying that the government should be chipping in and fixing up the problems. We’re saying you already have laws in place, fix those laws, enable those laws, and make sure that the products being made in Australia aren’t being underdone by foreign countries.”

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Housing Minister Claire O’Neil toured the Dandenong facility with AWU officials on Friday 21 February, to witness the operation and meet with workers whose livelihoods hang in the balance.

Victorian Branch of the Australian Workers’ Union (AWU) secretary Ronnie Hayden was calling on the Federal Government to support glass manufacturing as the country’s only glass manufacturer, Oceania Glass, has recently gone into administration. (ROB CAREW: 460999)

Oceania Glass in Dandenong South.

Positive take on downsizing

If you are looking to Downsize and feeling overwhelmed, it is completely understandable. You have most probably lived in the same home for many years, and major change can bring a great deal of uncertainty. Staying positive is key.

Realising the benefits of moving into a more manageable home is the first step to shifting your mindset which will help you move through the downsizing process more easily, and action change.

Here are some major benefits that you will experience:

• You will no longer feel worried about your inevitable transition, and it will feel like a weight has been lifted from your shoulders.

• Your next home will be more manageable and suited to who you are today.

• You will free up your time to do more of the things you love.

When you feel ready, begin to explore all options in your location. This may include retirement living villages or free-standing homes. If you are looking at a one-step Downsize, please assess if your new home will still be suitable in 10 years’ time. Consider making a list of priorities that are important to you and ensure your highest priorities are non-negotiable.

For example, what aspects of a new home are important to you? Would you like a double garage? Would you like to live near a park? What type of a community would you like to live in?

There are so many things to look forward to when Downsizing and planning your next chapter. If you go about the process in a strategic manner with a little support, your wellbeing will automatically improve. In fact, you may even wish you had done it sooner. If you are looking to Downsizing your home, you are welcome to come and join Julia Dyer for an Independent Information Session at Bunjil Place, Narre Warren on March 13. Bookings Essential. Call 0404 293 485 to register, today. A positive take on downsizing.

Frequently asked questions answered by expert panelists. NOT TO BE MISSED!

“Attending this session was the most valuable thing I have done for myself. Thank you for your support!” Marilyn Is your home becoming too hard

to manage?

Join Julia Dyer as she shares independent advice to help you feel more confident and in control on your Downsizing journey so you can transition with ease. Leave feeling more positive, with handy checklists and a strategic plan.

TOPICS INCLUDE:

Managing change

4-Step Downsizing Roadmap

Financial considerations

Thursday - March 13

Bunjil Place Meeting Room

Finding your next abode / Retirement living Invaluable tips on selling your home and moving How to decide what to keep, sell or toss

Either 1pm - 3pm OR 6pm - 8pm Refreshment break included

$10 cash payable at door (donated to Rotary) Bookings essential. Call 0404 293 485

The ultimate adventure awaits

BY LEE MCCARTHY

IF you are one of those fortunate travellers who have covered the globe, seen as much of Europe, Africa and Asia as you desire and are seeking a new experience, this one is for you.

It’s time to explore the final frontier, Greenland and the Canadian High Arctic.

The diversity and ruggedness of the terrain in the Arctic and Alaska will grip you as you celebrate life on a voyage of extremes.

Viking started sailing in the high Arctic in 2025 offering passengers the chance to be one of the first to pass through the scenic Canadian Maritimes and along the famed St Lawrence Seaway with time to visit historical cities along the East Coast.

Viking’s Australian and New Zealand managing director Michelle Black said this was a unique journey allowing passengers to witness stunning vista’s, unique wildlife and diverse cultures and enjoy a truly memorable voyage to the Earth’s far north by sea.

“We are pleased to be able to offer such a wide range of new and exciting expedition voyages sailing between the polar regions of the Arctic to Antarctica and the Great Lakes,” she said.

“These destinations offer encounters with wildlife like nowhere else in the world,”

“Guests will sail glassy inlets with whales and penguins between dramatic landscapes, glaciercarved fjords and rugged mountain ranges while immersing in the culture and traditions of the traditional Inuit peoples of the Arctic.”

“Our polar voyages offer an unbelievable opportunity to experience the remote wilderness and excite every type of traveller.”

The journey begins in cosmopolitan Nuuk, Greenland’s capital city and one of the smallest in the world, with just 16,000 residents.

Located on the southwest coast, the city is home to one of the world’s largest fjords, the Nuup Kangerlua Fjord, whose waters are brimming with marine life and where whale sightings are commonplace.

Visitors to Nuuk come to enjoy nature, hiking along the dramatic coastline or exploring the fjord by boat or kayak. Its rugged landscape is dotted with colourful houses, set amid a beautiful backdrop of the Sermitsiaq mountain.

Passengers will have the chance to cruise these waters on the Viking’s Special Operations Boat and witness Greenland’s west coast, one of the Arctic regions spectacularly scenic highways and a favoured transportation route for Greenlanders. Iceberg-filled waters drift past changing landscapes, evoking experiences that were once followed by intrepid explorers for centuries.

Kayak among Icebergs In Illulissat, Greenland paddling along the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Floating icebergs

glisten under the midnight sun as they drift by.

The Pond Inlet in Nunavut, Canada which sits on the northern shores of Baffin Island at the eastern entrance to the famed Northwest Passage is home to a small but vibrant Inuit community, and nicknamed the ‘Jewel of the North.’

ThesurroundingArcticlandscapeapanoramic mix of glaciers, icebergs and rugged mountains. Pond Inlet is also a gateway to Sirmilik National Park, ‘the place of the glaciers’ in the local language.

Covering more than 8,400 sq mi, the park is a declared migratory bird sanctuary and supports an array of Arctic wildlife, including polar bears, wolves, narwhals and beluga whales.

The Canadian High Arctic is a region of raw natural beauty and is characterized by extremely cold temperatures and extended periods of darkness.

The spectacular natural beauty is dominated by rugged terrain, snowcapped mountains, drifting icebergs and vast ice fields that stretch to the horizon.

During the journey enjoy enriching days of exploration with the use of expedition equipment, including walking poles, binoculars and dry suits for kayaking which is all included in the fare.

Greenland enjoys a diverse food scene and the country’s capital encourages visitors to fully embrace the gourmet dining experiences on offer.

With most of the country covered in ice, tra-

ditional Greenlandic cuisine heavily features seafood, fish and meat.

In restaurants serving traditional fare, Suaasat will commonly be found on the menu—a tasty stew of potatoes, onion, rice or barley and meat.

These are just a few of the highlights of Artic cruise with Viking - a chance to make memories to cherish forever.

To enjoy the itinerary and find out more please visit www.viking.com or phone 138 747.

A selection of cafes and eateries offer tasting plates or tapas-style dishes, providing a sampler of local delicacies to enjoy, alongside international favourites.

Viking Orion in the Icy Strait Point in Hoonah, Alaska

Viking guests will sail glassy inlets with whales and penguins between dramatic landscapes, glaciercarved fjords and rugged mountain ranges

Why ‘Coolcations’ are hot

TAKEN a Coolcation recently? All the ‘cool kids’ are taking ’coolcations’ where they explore vivid and exciting destinations like Canada, Alaska, Norway, Sweden, Finland and Iceland.

‘Coolcationing’ is one of the top travel trends of 2025 and is so called as many travellers are tired of travelling in the intense heat so are choosing destinations like Scandinavia, Alaska and Canada.

As this is the very region Viking calls home, they are without question the best placed to show travellers around these spectacular regions and share their homelands with them.

Viking introduces their passengers to the history, culture, architecture and art of the region and offer them the chance to explore their culinary uniqueness all while travelling in understated luxury.

Travelling the far seas of Canada, Greenland, Iceland and the Arctic is a chance to discover distant shores and visit villages and scenery not overrun by tourists.

From quaint fishing villages to snowcapped mountaintops, witness majestic landscapes, and learn about Inuit traditions, revelling in the history of Viking exploration.

Visit vibrant Bergen in Norway, home to the Hanseatic League’s only kontor (trading enclave) still in existence.

Join shrimp-peeling experts as they demonstrate their different preferred methods. Try both and see which techniques works best before savouring a hard-earned meal with white bread and a glass of chilled white wine.

Meet some of the four-footed locals and learn about the classic Norwegian brown goat cheese called Gjetost.

Norwegians love their coffee, and a trip behind closed doors to discover the process that brings Friele, Norwegians favourite coffee to life and learn about the fascinating art of ‘cupping’ will entice the senses.

Explore the stunning beauty of the Svalbard archipelago, hundreds of Norwegian islands halfway between Norway and the North Pole. Stunning panoramas unfold here with dramatic fjords leading into glimmering bays surrounded by massive glaciers and rugged peaks cloaked in snow.

The austere tundra unfolds to an Arctic desert where polar bear, Arctic fox and reindeer roam. Many regions have been designated Important Bird Areas by BirdLife International for the countless winged creatures that breed and hunt along the coast.

The region’s endless wonders can be explored by zodiac, kayak and by land. Discover what life in the Arctic is like during a drive through Longyearbyen and a visit to the Svalbard Museum.

Journey to Camp Barentz in the remote Advent Valley and meet its lovable husky dogs and their musher.

Fossil hunting, sled ride, and a thrilling ride to

the advent Valley by ATV are just a few of the adventures to experience.

Discover the area’s natural beauty by kayak against a stunning backdrop of sweeping mountains or ascend into hard-to-reach places and admire panoramic views around Ísafjördur on an exhilarating ATV excursion.

Get to know a local Greenlander and share a traditional snack during a home-hosted visit. Learn about the local culture, their traditional

clothing and fabric, and gain insight into village life. Cap the visit by sharing a kaffemik, a Greenlandic tradition used to celebrate special events or milestones, such as birthdays or births. Enjoy this cultural exchange while tasting homemade Greenlandic cake and pastries

Viking travellers Jenny and Phil Morup were full of praise for their recent trips.

“All of our Viking cruises have been enjoyable and adventurous. We particularly enjoy scenic

cruises in cooler climates,“ they explained.

“It is for this reason we enjoy sailing around Norway, Iceland, Greenland, Alaska and Canada. Cruises we have completed in these regions are Viking Empire (49 days), In the Wake of the Vikings (15 days), North Pacific Passage (22 days) and Iceland and Norway’s Arctic Explorer (15 days).“

Back onboard recharge and renew body, mind and spirit in Viking’s Scandinavian-inspired Spa, a Nordic sanctuary of holistic wellness, today while at sea.

Whether choosing to unwind in the sauna, refresh in the Snow Grotto or take a dip in the Thermal Pool, it’s hard not to feel recharged and revitalized.

Viking’s inclusive value includes everything needed for a fabulous trip, such as a guided excursion in every port, all onboard meals including alternative dining venues, wine and beer with lunch and dinner, unlimited Wi-Fi, 24-hour specialty tea, coffee, and bottled water, access to the stateof-the-art Nordic spa, self-service laundry and all tipping. With no kids, no casinos, fewer than 1,000 guests, and all veranda staterooms, Viking’s award-winning ships take their passengers as close as possible to each destination.

To learn more about Viking’s Coolcations visit www.viking.com or call and speak to member of the team on Reservations (AU) 138 747.

Viking guests Jenny and Phil Morup dressed for kayaking in Canada on the Great Lakes.

Jenny and Phil Morup, guests on Viking’s Arctic Explorer cruise with the sign which signifies the end of the Svalbard City limit and the risk of roaming polar bears. (Supplied)

LEE MCCARTHY

EUROPEAN SOJOURN

Amsterdam to Bucharest or vice versa

23 DAYS | 8 COUNTRIES | 19 GUIDED TOURS SET SAIL: JUN-OCT 2025; APR-OCT 2026; 2027

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Enjoy free flight offers with selected river, ocean or expedition voyages, valued up to AU$2,400 per person. Plus AU$500 shipboard credit with any ocean and expedition booking. Available for a limited time only, offers end 31 March 2025.

PASSAGE TO EASTERN EUROPE

Bucharest to Budapest or vice versa

11 DAYS | 5 COUNTRIES | 8 GUIDED TOURS

SET SAIL: MAY-NOV 2025; MAR-NOV 2026; 2027

From $7,895pp in Standard Stateroom

From $9,395pp in Veranda Stateroom

New River Voyage Brochure

Hong Kong seamlessly blends Eastern traditions and Western modernity. The city’s iconic skyline, studded with futuristic skyscrapers, forms a stunning contrast to ancient temples and vibrant markets.

Your holiday includes

Full-Board Cruise

23 night full-board cruise on board the BRAND-NEW Queen Anne

25 Nights | 20 February 2026 | Prices fr $7,299pp

Enjoy a two-night stay in Singapore before embarking the newest addition to Cunard’s fleet, Queen Anne, for the voyage to Sydney.

From the Supertrees of Gardens by the Bay to the cultural intrigue of Chinatown, Singapore remains one of the most fascinating destinations in Southeast Asia. Discover the island-state’s beautiful botanical gardens and colonial landmarks during a two-night hotel stay ahead of a 23-night voyage on board Queen Anne as she sails to Sydney.

The newest member of the Cunard fleet, Queen Anne promises everything that makes a Cunard cruise so special, from Gala Evenings to a ernoon teas and enriching guest lectures. Enjoy a night in port in Hong Kong before sailing to Manila and onwards to Darwin. The sunshine of Queensland beckons next, from Airlie Beach to Brisbane, before your cruise culminates with a night in port in Sydney.

Visiting: Singapore, Hong Kong (overnight in port), Manila, Bitung, Darwin, Airlie Beach, Brisbane, Sydney (overnight in port)

The brand-new Queen Anne is a luxurious cruise liner offering opulent accommodations, fine dining, and exquisite service, promising an unforgettable voyage of elegance and indulgence on the high seas.

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2 night four-star hotel stay in Singapore at the PARKROYAL on Beach Road with breakfast

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Singapore, Hong Kong (overnight in port), Manila, Bitung, Darwin, Airlie Beach, Brisbane, Sydney (overnight in port)

Strict CCO for drug offender

By Ethan Benedicto

Southeast man Lionel Albert was sentenced to a strict community corrections order after serving 27 months in custody.

Albert, 41-year-old, was charged and pled guilty to five drug charges on Friday 14 February, and attended court again on Thursday 20 February, for further plea and sentencing.

Following a police raid at a Langwarrin South property where a clandestine drug lab was found in 2022, alongside 672 grams of drug-related substances, a stolen Porsche 911 coupe and a dismantled shotgun with five cartridges, Albert initially pleaded guilty to five charges.

These charges included trafficking methamphetamine, the possession of precursor chemicals, firearm possession, handling stolen goods - the Porsche - and attempting to pervert the course of justice.

Albert’s CCO will run for two and a half years, with the following mandatory conditions of 100 hours of community service, supervision by Corrections Victoria, compulsory drug treatment and mental health assessment, judicial monitoring hearings every three months and immediate breach consequences.

The latter included the possibility of re-sentencing if Albert were to breach the CCO.

In court, Judge Bayles acknowledged the seriousness of Albert’s offences, his lengthy criminal history, which involved drugs, dishonesty, firearm-related convictions and his previous breaches of multiple CCOs. However, due to him already serving 826 days in pre-sentence detention, the judge ruled that he was eligible for a supervised release under strict conditions.

The initial argument the prosecution argued for was a full prison sentence with a non-parole period, once more citing Albert’s history and the assessment that he has a high risk of re-offending.

The defence successfully pushed for a combination sentence, arguing in their stead that a structured rehabilitation program under said CCO would be more effective than extended imprisonment.

Jude Bayles said to Albert “I hope you understand the effect of this order and I hope you understand that this is an opportunity that I’m giving you”.

“I’m taking a chance on you and I’ll be bringing this back in three months’ time to monitor your progress,” he said.

He also highlighted that if Albert had not pled guilty and was found so, he would have been sentenced to five years in prison with a non-parole period of three and a half years.

Judge Bayles also ordered the forfeiture of all seized drug paraphernalia, firearms and stolen goods, including the Porsche 911 coupe.

Albert must report to the Dandenong Corrections Office within two working days of release.

His first judicial monitoring hearing is set for 11 June 2025, where the court will assess his progress and compliance with the CCO.

She’s on the money: Podcaster dropping by

Connected Libraries will welcome Victoria Devine to Bunjil Place Function Centre to celebrate International Women’s Day.

Victoria is a retired financial advisor, business owner, podcaster, educator and author.

Her podcast She’s on the Money reaches 1.2 million listeners each month, and she is the author of three bestselling books.

Victoria will discuss everything from investing and budgeting to how to avoid impulse purchasing and provide practical advice on how to have a better relationship with money.

Connected Libraries chief executive officer Beth Luppino said: “In celebration of International Women’s Day, we want to empower and give women in the City of Casey the tools to financial freedom.

“Victoria has a huge following of women in particular who want to get ahead in life by learning the tools for saving and investing wisely.

“If you, your daughter, your niece or anyone you know could benefit from learning more about being savvy with money, then why not grab a couple of friends and make a night of it.”

The event will be held on Wednesday 12 March, 7pm at Bunjil Place Function Centre. This is a free event. Book sales and signings will be available on the night.

Book now by visiting connectedlibraries. org.au or visit events.connectedlibraries. org.au/event?id=129664

Oak Tree Hill is a well-established retirement community with beautiful gardens, located in Glen Waverley.

Set on 15 hectares, it’s close to parklands, Monash Aquatic Centre, Waverley Private Hospital, and Glen Waverley Bowls Club. Enjoy nearby shopping at The Glen, cafes, and restaurants, with a community shuttle for easy access.

Don’t miss out on low-maintenance retirement living, enjoying spacious, modern villas with private courtyard gardens and 24/7 emergency call systems.

Victoria Devine, who runs the podcast She’s on the Money, will come to Bunjil Place Library on Wednesday 12 March. (Supplied)

Struggles amid jobless rise

By Ethan Benedicto

As Victoria’s unemployment rate rose to 4.1 per cent in January, a local support service has seen a 20 per cent spike in people requiring help since Christmas last year.

In the City of Casey, Helen Small, the executive manager of Casey North Community Information and Support Services said that the organisation is seeing “a lot more people here than ever before”.

“The number of people we see each day has increased roughly 20 per cent since Christmas, it’s been really noticeable.

“We’ve also seen a big increase in people who are homeless, but not necessarily sleeping rough.

“What you see in Casey is a very hidden homelessness, and compared to the CBD, you see a lot of people sitting on the footpaths, sleeping, not here,” she said.

This rate is a jump from the 4 per cent in the previous month, however, the ABS detailed that employment increased by 44,000 jobs throughout the state, yet the number of officially unemployed people also climbed by 23,000.

While the employment increase is a sign that more people are entering the workforce and actively looking for jobs, homelessness remains a major issue.

The Council to Homeless Persons (CHP) released on Thursday 20 February that there is a need for emphasis on programs for those sleeping rough unless the State Government were to provide funding lifelines in the upcoming budget.

They also added that homelessness in the state rose 24 per cent during the last Census and that in 2021, more than 30,000 Victorians were without a home on the night of said Census.

According to the CHP’s CEO, Deborah Di

Natale, the state’s housing crisis “is reaching a crossroads”.

“With political will, we can end homelessness, but a failure to act will cause a human catastrophe.”

The CHP’s plan lays on their 2025/26 State Budget submission which calls for $100.9 million in the next financial year - $421.9 million over four years - to fund Housing First programs that provide housing and support for rough sleepers.

The City of Casey, which has one of the state’s fastest-growing populations, with a population of 392,110 as of 2023, is subject to the same issues.

Financial insecurity is widespread, the rising housing costs and stagnant wages have made it difficult for people, particularly those in low-income or casual work, to find stable employment and housing.

The difference, according to Small, was that while other parts of Victoria, such as the city, may visibly show the effects of homelessness, Casey sees people who are sleeping in parking lots, in their vehicles and in tents at parks.

Overcrowding was another issue she said, where you will often “see people who have a four bedroom home, but with 17 to 18 people inside it”.

“The other more difficult situations are those people living with family violence, so these are the things that we struggle with in Casey that are probably very different in Carlton or Fitzroy.

“Another aspect is the high migrant population who probably are not aware that there is help available, and while many are doing their best, information in languages other than English is not easily accessible,” Small said.

Looking at Cranbourne, the CHP released a profile of the area’s homelessness in 2022, which

recorded that there were 240 people without a home.

It further stated that homelessness affected 38 people per 10,000, as compared to the state average of 42 per 10,000 people; this ranked Cranbourne 38th in the state out of 88 electorates.

Recurring with Small’s and the CNCISS’ observations, there were 170 people in severely overcrowded dwellings, and the second highest with 33 people in supported accommodation.

“Housing First programs have demonstrated remarkable success in providing stable, longterm housing for people who were previously sleeping rough,” Di Natale said.

“Victoria’s From Homelessness to a Home (H2H) program had a 95 per cent success rate but was ended in 2024 and replaced with a smaller program.

“What Victoria needs now is for the government to double-down on Housing First programs, rather than scaling back.”

For South East Local Learning and Employment Network, CEO Andrew Simmons said that Casey holds more people in housing stress as compared to other areas.

“This is a measure of the percentage of income that goes into rent or mortgage payments, so statistically, we have a high representation of families or households that are under either mortgage or rental stress.

“That is potentially the result of low-income jobs, but also families that might only have one source of income,” he said.

While Simmons agrees that in the Southeast as a whole, there tends to be more affordable housing, it may not necessarily be more affordable for the younger generation, with multiple barriers that prevent the youth from buying their first homes.

“There’s a really high percentage of people who battle the rental element versus entry-level roles, particularly if you’re only working parttime while studying,” he said.

“But this is the case even if you’re an apprentice, it’s really not an option at all; you’re either living at home or at a shared house, you’re certainly not living on your own.”

The CHP’s budget submission also called for an urgent investment in critical homelessness prevention programs, with a call for the state government to invest $37.1 million in the Private Rental Assistance Program and Tenancy Advocacy and Assistance Program.

It was also added that with Victoria’s need for a minimum of 6000 social housing dwellings to be built each year for at least a decade, a $4.9 billion investment in the budget to grow the state’s public and community housing stock is a must.

Di Natale said that “critical services supporting rough sleepers and families with children are at risk of extinction without an urgent funding commitment from the Victorian government”.

“Prevention is always better than cure, unprecedented demand for rental assistance schemes means we need urgent investment to ensure people don’t fall through the cracks into homelessness,” she said.

The City of Casey adopted the Affordable Housing Strategy on 15 December 2020, with a 10-year strategy in place for Social and Affordable Housing in Victoria.

In 2023/2024, a review of the plan saw priorities for 2024 as to scope out emerging opportunities at both state and federal levels for a range of options that Casey could take in affordable housing space.

This was said to be presented to the new and current council for consideration and decision.

Government cuts back City of Casey’s homes target

By Violet Li

Casey’s mandated housing target for the next three decades has dropped by 16 per cent, and the mayor says the council is confident it can achieve the target.

The finalised housing targets were published on Monday 24 February, where Casey’s quota by 2051 dropped from 104,000 in the draft plan to 87,000 - about 16 per cent - comprising 28,500 in the non-greenfield and 58,500 in the greenfield.

According to a media release by Premier Jacinta Allan, more homes are needed in established suburbs close to jobs, transport and services, so that young people can live near family and work. Pressure needs to come off outer suburbs that have carried too much of the load, she said.

“That’s what the targets achieve: taking pressure off Melbourne’s urban fringe areas by delivering 70 per cent of growth in established areas and 30 per cent of growth in the outer suburbs, instead of the other way around,” she stated.

She also stated that the State Government would intervene and unlock space for more homes, including through rezoning if councils didn’t start doing the planning work now to meet their targets.

The Minister for Planning would also retain her powers to intervene or fast-track developments.

City of Casey Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen said Casey Council was confident that it could achieve its housing targets.

said.

“We want Casey to be an affordable and accessible city that welcomes everyone, particularly first home buyers and young families.”

Dr Marcus Spiller from SGS Economics and Planning said it was fair enough for the State Government to intervene when ‘state interests’ are at stake.

“Creating a more responsive housing supply system does fit into this category given the crisis we’re in,” he said.

“This said, I hold to the view that local governments know their areas well and are best seen as partners, rather than adversaries, in the achievement of housing targets.”

Casey has 131,000 existing homes, according to the statistics in 2023.

The Council to Homeless Persons has called for more attention and action on programs that provide support from the State Government. (On File)

Helen Small, executive director of CNCISS, says that considering Casey’s size, support for the homeless is a must. (Rob Carew: 332999_03)

Deborah Di Natale, CEO of CHP, is calling for the State Government to have a greater focus on supporting the needs of the homeless. (Supplied)

“Achieving this housing target will require continued collaboration between the State Government, council, and the housing sector,” he

Bunjil Place, City of Casey. (Gary Sissons: 429633)

Works start to widen bridge

Works are ramping up on the Clyde Road Upgrade with crews starting widening works on the bridge over the Princes Freeway.

Expanding the bridge from six lanes to 10 lanes, which includes new turning lanes on and off the freeway and improved bus access, crews will start work to build the bridge foundations and end supports from 17 February.

“The Clyde Road Upgrade is ramping up with bridgeworks beginning to take shape,” Major Road Projects Victoria Program Director Brendan Pauwels said.

“We’re starting works this month to widen the bridge over the Princes Freeway, as we begin the biggest part of the project to create the wider bridge to help ease congestion.”

To ensure a strong and stable foundation for the wider bridge, crews will drill bore holes up to 17 metres deep, roughly as tall as a four-storey building, before filling them with reinforced concrete.

This method of bridge construction helps to minimise noise and vibration impacts, making for less disruption to the local community while we’re working on the foundations.

From there the towering 5.6 metre centre median wall will take shape, as the biggest piece of the project.

Once these works are completed, the project will begin installing 14 bridge beams – each 74 metres long and weighing approximately 48 tonnes – to build the main superstructure of the bridge.

The Clyde Road Upgrade has been busy completing early works over recent months –with works on underground utilities nearing completion as well as the removal of the centre median and installing temporary asphalt and line marking.

These measures help to keep two lanes of traffic flowing on the Clyde Road Upgrade to minimise delays.

Preparations to build the new northbound lanes on Clyde Road have also started. Tem-

Clyde

porary safety barriers are now in place between the freeway and Kangan Drive, allowing crews to work safely with minimal disruption to traffic flow.

The relocation of underground utility ser-

vices, including telecommunications, internet, water and gas protection is expected to wrap up in the next few months, with 80 per cent of this work now complete. If you’d like to learn more about the project,

the team will be hosting a free sausage sizzle in Buchanan Park in Berwick on Saturday 29 March. For more information visit: bigbuild. vic.gov.au/events

Road. (Supplied)

Arts workshop a success

By Violet Li

Hampton Park Uniting Church hosted a free arts workshop on Saturday 22 February, in the leadup to its big exhibition in March.

Facilitator Lyn Mcbain said they put in cultural workshops prior to the arts exhibition Art, Culture, and Diversity, so people could be taught. Facilitators were present on scene to engage the participants with arts.

“We had four different cultures come in,” she said.

“It was very successful. We had about 50 people. We were completely booked out.

“Some of those facilitators have been invited to feature their art, so they can put up to about six pieces of their own art and be featured artists.

“We’ve not done that before, so that’s something different. Every year we try and do something different.”

Free program launched for small businesses

By Violet Li

Cranbourne Chamber of Commerce has officially launched its big program of the year to help locals start and grow their small businesses.

The free program Start Smart – Run Smart is a multicultural initiative designed to enable and empower locals to start or run a small business. It is open to everyone, regardless of background.

According to the chamber, the program includes four speaker events on different key aspects of starting and running a small business, expert guidance and practical tips to help locals navigate the business world, and a supportive, multicultural environment that understands the challenges and opportunities of business owners.

The first speaker event will be on 24 March at Cranbourne Public Hall, featuring two guest speakers: chief executive officer of Yarra Lane Group Nick Perrett, and owner of marketing agency Innovnate Pty Ltd Nate Ward.

Mr Perrett will be discussing business plans, cash flow management, and budgeting, while Mr Ward will cover marketing for startups and small businesses and the importance of branding.

Cranbourne Chamber of Commerce president Ian Wood said the program was all about bringing experts in to tutor people who wanted to start small businesses in the Cranbourne area. He said if anyone wants further specialist advice, they could follow up with the speakers.

The information on the other three sessions will be shared soon.

Weapons seized in South East

Eleven people were arrested and 20 weapons seized during a police blitz across the South East.

The arrests were made during 61 raids as part of firearm prohibition order (FPO) checks across Greater Dandenong, Casey and Cardinia between 11-13 February.

Among the 20 seized prohibited weapons were an imitation gun, double-edged hunting knives, extendable batons, long batons, flick knives, a laser and OC sprays.

A stolen Mazda CX9 was recovered in Noble Park, as well as large amounts of drugs such as heroin, meth, GHB and cannabis.

More than 40 charges were laid.

Local police - including the Greater Dandenong, Casey and Cardinia Crime Investigation Units, and the Greater Dandenong Crime Reduction Teamwere supported by the VIPER Taskforce.

Any information on illicit firearms to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au

The door for the first event opens at 6.30pm and the presentation starts at 7pm on Monday

Locals can book for the first speaker event through the chamber’s website. Spots are limited.

Community support worker with the Uniting Church Sam Igoe, instructor of Pakistani Truck-Art Sha Yamin and art committee member Sue Ann were at the workshop.

24

On its first event this year, a preview of the small business program was presented. L-R: Liberal candidate for Holt Annette Samuel, chamber president Ian Wood, speaker Mark Williams and members of the chamber. (Supplied)

Calara from Nar Nar Goon was with some of her work.

Facilitators Lyn McBain, Heather Shepherd, Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas, facilitators Sierra Balsom and Sha Yamin were at the workshop.

Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas was getting a selfie.

Mary Murphy was painting a vase (Pakistani Truck-Art). (Gary Sissons: 456205) Facilitator Sierra Balsom was teaching at the workshop.

Cranbourne Friends of the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria Inc Autumn Plant Sale

• Plant sale dates: Saturday and Sunday 22 and 23 March, 2025

• Times: 10am – 4pm on both days

• Location: Royal Botanic Garden Victoria –Cranbourne (Cnr Ballarto Road and Botanic Drive, Cranbourne)

The plant sale will be held at the northern end of the Australian Garden. Parking and entry is available nearby (look for the large red banners).

A large variety of Australian native plants will be available. A plant list will be available on our website approximately a week before the sale. EFTPOS is available.

Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre

17 March - 12pm - Harmony Day cultural celebration - Celebrate your culture through food, bring a plate and come and meet new friends at Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre - Free Fridays from 7 March - 10-12:30 - Hazaragi Computers for Work - Learn digital skills for the workplace in Hazaragi from a native speaking computer skills teacher - Free during term 1

Every Monday - 9.30-11am - during school terms - Come and sew tote bags - For sewists who want to meet new friends and practice their sewing skills making tote bags - we supply the sewing machines and fabric - Free

Every Friday - 11am-2pm - Thee Coffee TableWelcoming women’s community group - Free

Volunteers are welcome to come and help to maintain our community garden

All the above are held at Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre, 141 - 147 Endeavour Drive, Cranbourne North 3977

• For more information and bookings call - 5996 9056

We also have:

Fridays 9.30am-11.30am during school termsConversational English Classes at Cranbourne Park Shopping Centre - Come along to practice and improve your English skills in a relaxed environment comfortable, casual classes with a friendly, patient tutor - $5 per class.

• Call 03 5996 9056 to enrol in Conversational

Trades & Services

English or come along to Cranbourne Park Shopping Centre during class times. The Cranbourne Park Community Hub is conveniently located in Cranbourne Park Shopping Centre, in the space behind Target, next to Pacific Smiles Dental and opposite Centre Management, and the nearest entrance is next to Australia Post.

U3A Cranbourne

A community group for people aged 50 and over to pursue a variety of activities and interests. We are at 20 - 22 Bowen Street, Cranbourne.

Line Dancing and ballroom dancing are run offsite.

Supported by Casey Council we are a not-forprofit organisation with a membership fee of $50 per year which entitles you to join as many classes as you wish.

Members have the opportunity to learn, share and socialise. The variety is endless from table tennis to Italian, cardmaking, art, sewing, quilling, knitting, singing and ukelele and guitar classes.

Our gardening group started this week with a lovely meeting to share ideas and encourage each other. We are keen to start planting out some tubs and containers next week with herbs and vegetables.

Wish us luck! Check out all our courses at our website www.u3acranbourne.org.au or phone 0493 991 919 for more information.

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.

Cranbourne Senior Citizens Club

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

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

General Notices

PHONE

Weeklyactivitytimes-LineDancingMon.10am12pm, New Vogue and Old Time Dance Tue. 1pm3:30pm, Carpet Bowls Wed. & Sat. 11:30am2:30pm, Bingo Thur. 11am-2pm.

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

• Find us on facebook https://www.facebook. com/groups/487808127399953

Blind Bight Community Centre

Craft gift making for adults from 12.30pm to 2.30pm on Tuesdays.

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

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

Playgroup from 10.30am to noon on Wednesdays.

The program provides fun play activities and craft for children at $5 per family.

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

Line dancing from 1pm to 2pm on Wednesdays.

All ages, and abilities welcome at $10 per class.

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

Casey Cardinia Life Activities Club

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

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

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

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

Anyone interested can visit on Thursdays at 2pm for socialising and low-key dancing at Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House at 21A Bemersyde Drive or join the club for a coffee and a chat

STATION AT CARDINIA Telstra plans to upgrade an existing site by installing new antennas on to the existing NBN Tower Site, 896 Cardinia Road, Cardinia VIC 3978 (RFNSA No. 3978004)

1.The proposed activity consists of the following to improve Telstra’s mobile phone network, including 4G / 5G:

•The installation of a new headframe mounted at 28.5m above ground level on the existing 40m high NBN steel monopole

•The installation of six (6) new panel antennas on to the new headframe, 3 with a length of 717mm, 3 with a length of 2688mm

•Addition of miscellaneous auxiliary equipment and ancillary works.

2.The proposed installation is exempt from planning consent in accordance with the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018. The proposed infrastructure will comply with the ACMA EME regulatory requirements.

3.In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/ or comments should be directed to: Planning Consultant on behalf of Telstra, via email to planning.vic@servicestream.com.au, phone: via +61 477 962 725, via post to Planning Consultant, Servicestream, Level 7, 25 Smith Street, Parramatta, NSW 2150 by 5pm, Friday 14th March 2025.

4.If you would like to know more about this site, further information can be obtained from http://www.rfnsa.com.au/3978004

every Wednesday from 10am at the new François cafe in front of Myer in Fountain Gate.

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

Balla Balla Community Centre Playgroup – Balla Balla Bubs for families with babies (0-12 months) and Playgroup (1- 4 years). All our Playgroups are led by Early Learning Educators and are a great opportunity for families to make friends, socialise children and enjoy crafts, singing, sensory play, Storytime and more. Enrol online https://ballaballa.com.au/children-youth/ Health & Wellbeing – Pilates, Yoga, Zumba, Walking Group, Tai Chi - Regular exercise has been shown to help boost energy levels and enhance your mood. It may also be associated with many other health benefits, including a reduced risk of chronic disease.

Look after your social wellbeing by joining our Men’s Discussion Group – ideal for men over 50; Mindfulness Meditation – learn to enhance your self-awareness and recognise your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. This awareness can lead to a better understanding of how one communicates and interacts with others. Further details online - https://ballaballa.com.au/health-wellbeing/ Morning Melodies is back! Held the 2nd Tuesday of each month. Our featured entertainers will sing the songs you know and love. Enjoy a cuppa, or scone with jam and cream, make friends and have some fun.

Enrolments and bookings can be made in person or by phoning the centre between 9am -3pm.

• Online enrolments can be made: ballaballa. com.au/programs/

Combined Probus Club of Narre

Warren

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

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

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

Scrabble Club

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

• Contact David on 0433 566 456.

Bloods no match for Hawks

By David Nagel

Springvale South (100) has suffered a major setback in its quest to win the DDCA Turf 1 premiership after a demoralising display with the bat against Hallam Kalora Park (6/249) on Saturday.

The Bloods were well-positioned with just two rounds remaining in the season; sitting second with games against the third-placed Hawks and ladder-leaders Buckley Ridges to come.

Win both and the Bloods would finish in top spot on the ladder and gain some serious momentum ahead of this year’s finals series.

But that hope is now forlorn - and destiny now out of their own hands - after the Hawks proved far too powerful in their one-day contest on the weekend.

There was no sign of the carnage to come as the Hawks batted beautifully before tea after skipper Jordy Hammond had won the toss and elected to bat first.

Turf 1’s leading runscorer Damith Perera (63) was once again productive for the Hawks, while Mahela Udawatte (41), Ben Hillard (31 not out), Austin Fardell (30) and opener Leigh Booth (24) all contributed nicely to a healthy score.

Josh Dowling (2/47) was the only multiple wicket-taker for the Bloods; who were in early disarray after the tea break.

Needing a rate of 5.56 to win, the Bloods’ first gamble backfired when Jordy Wyatt (0) was sent back to the sheds from just the fourth ball of the innings.

Wyatt clipped William Whyte (1/20) into the safe hands of Ben Hillard at deep backward square leg…and the Hawks were on their way.

The score was soon 2/14 after Jordy McKenzie (9) edged Hammond (3/15) to the waiting right glove of Perera; before Bloods’ skipper Cam Forsyth (1) came and went in a hurry.

Forsyth took a leaping ball from Whyte on his right hand and was forced to retire hurt at the end of the seventh over.

The Bloods were effectively 4/20 when Blade Baxter (0) mistimed a drive to mid-on, and a perceived 5/28 when Ranel Seneviratne (6) was trapped in front by Hammond to give the Hawks’ skipper his third wicket for the innings.

Opener Nick Boland (30) provided resistance as he watched the carnage unfold from the other end; and Paul Hill (21) and Andrew Staude (19) battle bravely, but it was all done and dusted as Jagveer Hayer (2/22) and Lauchlan Gregson (2/24) mopped up the tail of the innings.

The Bloods could now slip to as low as fourth after fellow finals contender Berwick (193) survived a second thrilling contest of the season against Beaconsfield (164).

The Bears defeated the Tigers in the last over back in round six; and this time required a lusty blow from skipper Jarrod Goodes (31 not out) to get the job done.

Resuming at 1/10, the Bears were cruising at 1/73 before Lachlan Brown (48) cut a shortwide delivery from leg-spinner Charlie Johnson (2/34) into the safe mits of Jake Cutting.

Nick Shirt (30) then did likewise to mid-off, before things got interesting when Jake Hancock (4) edged through to the keeper.

The Bears’ big guns failed to fire through the middle order, and when Brodie Herkess (10) was bowled around his legs by Daniel Maskiell (3/23) the home side was 7/129 at the tea break. That soon became 8/140 before Jordy Cle-

land (17) and Goodes steadied the ship with a 21-run partnership.

When Cleland exited centre stage the Bears were 9/161 and still requiring four runs for victory.

Goodes wasted little time in banking the points; depositing Ashan Madhushanka (2/50) over the fence to deliver the Bears a one-wicket victory.

Goodes and Elliot Mathews (14) batted on, putting on 32 for the final wicket before stumps were pulled for the day.

Berwick heads to Narre South this week while Beaconsfield makes the trip to Dandenong West in one of the key battles as teams look to avoid relegation.

There were no complaints about the pitch at Strathaird Reserve after a sparkling century from Narre South (8/232) opener Kyle Hardy (117) led the Lions to a crucial victory over Dandenong West (8/187).

Narre South was penalised six points last week for not preparing its pitch to standard; but nailed its preparation this time around.

A total of 419 runs were scored, with Hardy cracking five fours and a remarkable 10 sixes over the boundary rope.

Hardy and number-three Vikai Kelley (45) shared a 149-run stand for the second wicket, with further contributions from Adam Snelling (30) and Riley McDonald (15) pushing the Lions to a winning score.

Dandenong West skipper Riley Siwes (5/21) provided a late-innings highlight for the Bulls, claiming the wickets of McDonald, Zac Wilson (0) and Morteza Ali (0) to chalk up his hat-trick.

The Lions were 3/227 at one stage but lost 5/5 in the last 15 balls of their innings.

The Bulls were always behind the asking rate in reply, with Shaun Weir (45), Siwes (37), Don Pulukkuttiarachchi (27) and Bailey Howarth (26) all making some handy runs.

Ali (2/27) and Joel Zietsman (2/38) claimed multiple wickets for the Lions in their 45-run victory.

And Buckley Ridges (3/178) remains the topdog in Turf 1 after a rock-solid victory over North Dandenong (173) at Lois Twohig Reserve.

Westley Nicholas (5/46), Dale Tormey (3/32) and Sanka Dinesh (2/11) set things up for the Bucks, who had little concerns despite no wickets to their two leading bowlers this season; Ishan Jayarathna and Hussain Ali.

The Bucks were then in cruise-control in re-

ply, with Jake Cronin (100 not out) making his first fifty for the season before powering his way to triple figures.

Cronin, Ben Wright (32) and Dale Tormey (22 not out) made sure there were no nasty surprises in the run-chase; the Bucks averaging more than seven runs per over.

The Bucks are now guaranteed a top-two finish and a double-chance come finals.

North Dandenong faces the daunting prospect of a trip to Hallam Kalora Park this week, with victory over the second-placed Hawks the only way it can maintain its place in Turf 1 next season.

Results R13: Berwick 193 def Beaconsfield 164, Hallam Kalora Park 6/249 def Springvale South 100, Narre South 8/232 def Dandenong West 8/187, North Dandenong 173 def by Buckley Ridges 3/178.

Ladder: Buckley Ridges 60, Hallam Kalora Park 58, Springvale South 52, Berwick 48/Beaconsfield 24, Narre South 24, Dandenong West 24, North Dandenong 24.

Fixture R14 (One Day): Dandenong West (7) v Beaconsfield (5), Hallam Kalora Park (2) v North Dandenong (8), Narre South (6) v Berwick (4), Springvale South (3) v Buckley Ridges (1).

Eurell to unleash his Untapped potential at Pakenham

By Michael Floyd

Cranbourne trainer Greg Eurell is hoping Thursday night’s Sportsbet Future Stars Final at Sportsbet-Pakenham is a stepping stone towards bigger things for his emerging three-year Untapped. The hulking brown gelding was brilliant when winning the opening heat of the $1.2m series in January, and quickly backed up to win equally as impressively at the same venue two weeks later. Eurell said that while there was the temptation of stepping up to a number of ‘black-type’ threeyear-old races on offer, the lure of the $300,000 final was too great.

“From his last run, it gives us an opportunity to give him a little freshen up and ideally, if we could send him out on a fresh set of legs into the final, that’s probably going to be the best way to go,” he said.

“I think it’s worked out well.” Untapped rounded out his preparations for the final with an effortless jumpout win at Cranbourne last Monday, with jockey Zac Spain dic-

tating the pace at the front of the field before extending in the run to the line, winning by seven lengths.

“It was good,” Eurell said of the jumpout.

“It said all the right signs were there that he’s heading in the right direction, and to date everything has worked to plan.”

Eurell has long had a high opinion of the son of Foxwedge.

Untapped made his race debut 12 months ago when running a close fourth in the Group 3 Blue Diamond Prelude at Caulfield before concluding his two-year-old season in the Group 2 Sires Produce.

His spring campaign was derailed by a minor leg injury, and while disappointed at the time to miss his early three year old season, Eurell said the break has allowed Untapped to mature and grow into his large frame.

With a faultless preparation under his belt,

Eurell is bullish about what lay ahead for Untapped but is happy to allow the horse’s results to dictate which direction he takes.

“It’ll be interesting; I think he’s a progressive sort of horse and he’s still finding his way a little bit,” he said.

“But he’s lightly raced and this time in he’s been faultless, he’s done everything you’d like to see.

“Ideally, if he can get a mile it opens it right up for him.

“He’s a big, strong horse that enjoys his workhe always has - and he’s fairly undentable in that way; he comes out of his runs in terrific order, he looks terrific and he’s racing accordingly.”

Now in its third season, the Sportsbet Future Stars Series has already proven an excellent series for emerging talent with horses including Gringotts, Oh Too Good, Bel Air and Marble Arch graduating from the first two editions of the series.

Hallam Kalora Park skipper Jordy Hammond led from the front of Saturday, taking 3/15 in a dominant victory over Springvale South. (Rob Carew: 460837)

The Greg Eurell-trained Untapped will look to make it three in a row in the Sportsbet Future Stars Final at Pakenham on Thursday night. (ROSS HOLBURT/RACING PHOTOS: 461811)

Ishan seems a sure thing

By Marcus Uhe

The highest honour in the Dandenong District Cricket Association appears Ishan Jayarathna’s to lose after a stellar season for the Buckley Ridges all rounder.

The Wookey Medal, awarded to the best player in Turf 1 for the home and away season, will be awarded on Sunday 2 March, with Jayarathna a runaway favourite with one round to play. His all-round abilities have been integral to the Bucks’ recent successful period but this season he has taken his game to a new level, influencing games more than he ever has.

While his batting has not reached the height of previous summers, having only passed 36 once (107 not out), his new ball exploits have consistently given his side the upper hand early in their opponent’s innings.

As of round 13, he leads the competition for wickets taken with 34, five ahead of Hallam Kalora Park’s William Whyte in second place.

In five contests he has taken a wicket in the opening over of the bowling innings and with four hauls of five wickets he comfortably leads all comers.

It was in the first half of the season where his destructive ability with the ball was maximised, no better against North Dandenong, when his 6/30 kept the Maroons to just 81 in the first innings.

By season’s end he could finish with an average below 10, an exceptional result for an opening bowler that bowls half of his overs at the tiny confides of Park Oval.

Jayarathna is all but guaranteed maximum votes in four matches; round five against Berwick (6/33), round six against North Dandenong (6/30), round eight against Dandenong West (6/17) and round 12 against Berwick (107 and 3/54), with round two (2/32 and 36) and round 10 (5/61 against Beaconsfield) also likely to attract attention from the officials.

Among the names on his hit-list this season include Damith Perera, Mahela Udawatte, Venuk Hemachandra, Shaun Weir, Jarryd Wills and Matthew Hague, while the wickets of Tyler Clark and Sasith Livera triggered the beginning of the end for a fighting Beaconsfield performance in round 10.

If Jayarathna is not the man to leave the Dandenong Club with the most coveted prize in the DDCA hanging from his neck, here are a few names to keep an eye on as his most-likely challengers.

JEEVAN MENDIS - NARRE SOUTH

371 runs at 46.38, 1 x 100s, 2 x 50s. 24 wickets, two five-wicket hauls

In a season where not much has gone right for Narre South, the continued excellence of Jeevan Mendis has been a shining light.

The 42-year-old winner of the award in 2022/23 will likely finish the home-and-away season leading his side for runs scored and wickets taken, showing no signs of slowing down any time soon.

A run-a-ball 71 and the big wicket of Jordan Wyatt against Springvale South in round five set the tone for another excellent summer for the Sri Lankan, whose batting has matched the quality of his bowling.

3/65 and 47 against Beaconsfield in round nine, and 60 and 6/52 against Buckley Ridges in round 11, will be his best chances of polling maximum votes from the umpires, before relying on other contributions to catch their attention

Unfortunately for Mendis, his team’s poor fortunes this summer will count against him.

His 122 against Berwick will be overshadowed by Jake Hancock’s ton for the Bears in the same game, while his 6/93 against Hallam Kalora Park in round 10 will be lost in the wash of a heavy defeat.

NUWAN KULASEKARA - DANDENONG WEST

287 runs at 23.92. 26 wickets, one five-wicket haul

Another former international still showing out at Turf 1 level, and the beneficiary of the blessing of two specialist skills.

When Dandenong West has won this summer, Kulasekara, the winner of the McDonald Medal in Turf 3 two summers ago, has been at

the forefront.

His 3/40 against Berwick in round two changed the course of the innings and was supplemented by 43 from 36 with the bat, his 3/25 against Narre South helped roll the Lions for 101 in round six, and his 5/24 helped defend 226 against Beaconsfield in round seven.

The problem for Kulasekara is that his side went winless between rounds eight to 13, with the Bulls on the end of some heavy defeats in that period of the season.

JAKE HANCOCK - BERWICK

474 runs at 52.67, 2 x 100s, 3 x 50s.

A slow start to the season was remedied by Berwick’s rock in the top order once the two-day portion of the season began in round seven.

Beginning with round seven’s contest with Narre South, the former first-class batter peeled off scores in the next five rounds of 109, five, 94, 121 and 86, for an average of 83 during this period.

Only Damith Perera and Ben Wright have more runs than the elegant right hander who has been one of the most difficult wickets to take in the competition this summer.

Centuries against Narre South and North Dandenong will likely net him maximum votes,

and his 86 against Springvale South was pivotal to a strong first innings performance, however he’ll jockey with Michael Wallace for votes in certain innings where both scored big runs. Nagging soft tissue injuries have hampered his availability for selection at times for the Bears, and may curtail his polling ability.

ASHAN MADHUSHANKA - BEACONSFIELD 314 runs at 28.55. 26 wickets.

A lack of senior heads has seen the allrounder’s role in the side skyrocket in importance this summer.

Madhushanka has become Beaconsfield’s ‘Mr Fix It’ at times, playing all manner of roles from opening bowler, opening batter and middle order rock.

He lacks a defining big performance but has been as consistent as they come, particularly in the shorter format of the game when the Tigers looked like making a run for the top four.

Madhushanka will likely have been in the umpires’ sights in round four (3/28 and 33), five (33 and 3/37), and six (25 and 3/50) while an excellent 69 against Buckley Ridges in round 10 and six wickets in a thrashing of North Dandenong at home will come under strong consideration.

Perfect start as Panthers dominate first weekend of finals

NARRE WARREN BOWLS

Narre Warren Bowls Club made a perfect start to the 2024/25 Metropolitan Pennant finals series with three teams making it four wins from four games across a wild weekend of bowls.

The great results have seen two teams qualify for grand finals and another to play in a preliminary final this week to make it a rock-solid three from three.

After finishing top of the ladder, Narre Warren’s second side - Division 3 -took on second-placed Dandenong Club at home under the Panther Dome knowing the winner would go straight into the grand final.

The extra motivating factor was that the winner would secure promotion to Division 2 next season.

In what was a close game all day, in very hot and humid conditions, Narre Warren came out on top with an 80-69 win.

Best rink was Terry Epshtein; Jim Kempf; Sam Bailey and Keith Fox with +17. Narre Warren’s Division 4 side played in an elimination final on Saturday; away for the second week in a row against Mentone Edge who defeated the Panthers by 29 shots the week before.

In the heat, the Panthers reversed the result and had a very good 76-64 victory.

Best rink was Michael Toole; Lindsay Gibson; Bryan Biasci and Greg Davies with +11.

This win gave the Panthers the opportunity to play again on Sunday in a preliminary final, away against Clayton who had finished the season in second spot.

In a day that had wind, sunshine and rain to make it a fun day to bowl in, the players put in a very good overall game and again came away with an exciting 83-63 win.

This booked a place in this Saturday’s grand final and guaranteed promotion to Division 3 for next season.

Best rink was Ash Suhr; Luke Suhr; Alan Meyer and Adrian Johnson with +22.

Narre Warren side 6, playing in Division 7, finished the season in fourth position and went to Mulgrave Country Club to play in the elimination final.

Due to the forecasted heat they started the game early and this helped as Narre Warren got off to a great start and were never headed in a big 94-61 win.

Best rink was Len O’Brien; Joe Selfridge; Warren Hobson and Kevin Friend with +19.

Side 6 will travel to close rivals Berwick this week for a preliminary final showdown with a spot in the grand final at stake.

-Craig Moore-

Buckley Ridges’ Ishan Jayarathna is the overwhelming favourite to claim the Wookey Medal this weekend. (Rob Carew: 386712)

Joe Selfridge was part of the best winning rink in Narre Warren’s Division 7 semi-final win over Mulgrave Country Club on Saturday. (Rob Carew: 446763)

CCCA Heat Policy halts play

By David Nagel

Casey Cardinia Cricket Association (CCCA)

President Ben Knowles understands the frustration and has vowed to provide an open forum for change after all CCCA cricket was abandoned on Saturday due to the association’s Extreme Heat Policy (EHP).

Saturday morning junior cricket was called off at 9.30 on Friday night, and senior cricket at 6.30am on game day after the Country Fire Authority (CFA) placed an ‘Extreme’ Fire Danger Rating on the Central District of Victoria; of which the entire CCCA competition sits in.

The ‘Extreme’ rating triggered a clause (24.2) in the CCCA EHP that all cricket be cancelled; overriding the still existing trigger of a forecast of 38 degrees at 11am on game day.

The temperature in Melbourne on Saturday officially reached 34.8 degrees.

Knowles provided background as to why clubs were asked to vote on the adapted policy which was adopted in August 2024.

“The Fire Danger Rating was previously in the Extreme Heat Policy, which is clearly written in our Policies and Procedures, but previously it was a junior rule only,” Knowles explained.

“We had a scenario last year where juniors were called off in the morning, because the Fire Danger Rating was extreme, but then those same juniors were allowed to play senior cricket in 38 degrees in the afternoon.

“It made absolutely no sense that cricket was called off in the cooler part of the day (juniors), but they’re allowed to play seniors which is harder cricket in the hottest part of the day.

“The junior and senior committees both agreed that it didn’t make sense.

“It was rewritten at the end of last year and that rewrite was added to the Extreme Heat Policy.

“It was sent out to the clubs, 21 days prior to the Rules and Affiliation meeting; all the clubs voted on it, and that’s where we stand today.

“On Saturday the Fire Danger Rating was extreme, the policy was implemented as it should be, and people are up in arms as to why we’re not playing cricket.

“The clubs voted it in and I’m just following the rules.”

Knowles has won praise for his no-fuss, black and white approach to the rules since taking over from Rob Hansen at the end of last season.

But, while a stickler for the rule book, Knowles, when pushed, acknowledged that change is needed to the EHP.

“I’d say yes; because when you dig deeper the Extreme Fire Danger Rating varies from 51 to

as were many other grounds around Casey and Cardinia, after cricket was abandoned due to the implementation of the CCCA’s Extreme Heat Policy. (Stewart Chambers: 460859)

99,” Knowles said.

“On the weekend I saw it at 67 and 71; which is getting up there, and the CFA told me it was purely because of the wind.

“Is the rule good at what it does; yes, but does it need a bit of tinkering…absolutely.

“We may need to look at the specific ‘number’ instead of the generalised rating, and we can do that because we will learn from our mistakes.

“My job is to implement the rules once they are approved, but yes…I do think it needs some work.”

Following up from the weekend, Knowles has contacted both the City of Casey and Cardinia Shire to see if both local governments have a heat policy in place; at venues that the CCCA utilises.

City of Casey does not currently have anything in place, while Cardinia Shire has communicated

Pathways pivotal for Storm

By Justin Schwarze

Melbourne Storm’s Female Development Squad contained a strong local flavour when the exciting talent ran out for an intra-club practice match at Casey Fields on Sunday.

The match was held prior to Storm’s NRL team playing a preseason game against the North Queensland Cowboys.

Of the 30 girls involved in the program, six come from the Casey Warriors, putting their talent on full display in front of family and friends.

Florance Fuiono, Julliana Kolio, Ocean Kaiwai-Rangikauhata, Lorelai Cordtz, Justice Huriwai-Daymond and Eboni Heurea are all now wearing ‘purple’ after being selected from the Casey Warriors.

“We wanted to give our girls the opportunity to play in front of their friends and families at home,” Melbourne Storm’s Female Pathway Program Manager Pauline Poloai said.

“It gave the girls the opportunity to showcase their talent and also showcase the game of Rugby League in the Casey area.”

In the week prior, the girls had a training session in Hallam, where they were visited by Casey Mayor Stefan Koomen.

“Now that we’ve got our story and our footprint out there, it’s going to bring more awareness to the Melbourne Storm’s female programs and our pathways,” Poloai said.

“We wanted to broaden our horizon around providing Melbourne Storms fans the opportunity of seeing the pathways for females as we venture into the next phase of female sports on the trend.

“The girls were nervous; however it was such a great day for them.

“The smiles, the excitement we saw on their faces; they were nervous but at the end of the day it was really great to see how far they’ve come.”

Along with the club’s fans, the program and event hopes to reach even wider audiences.

Another major focus was growing participation and awareness of women’s sport overall.

“I hope to see this program continue, it’s going to be an exciting foundation for us, as well as the opportunities,” Poloai said.

its policy to community groups and users.

When the Fire Behaviour Index (FBI) - which is the base on which the CFA issues its Fire Danger Rating - reaches 75, then certain facilities in the Cardinia Shire are not deemed fit for use.

Two prominent cricket associations didn’t play on the weekend with Ringwood and District Cricket Association joining the CCCA on the sidelines.

Neighbouring leagues such as Dandenong District (DDCA), Mornington Peninsula (MPCA) and Warragul and District (WDCA) all played on Saturday, while Ferntree Gully (FGDCA) played on with its heat policy having a “Catastrophic” rating cut-off point of 100-plus.

Knowles understands the frustrations that cricketers felt on the weekend.

“Absolutely I understand the frustration; there are a lot of people out there that pay good

money to play cricket, and I totally understand where their frustration is coming from,” he said.

“But I have a set of black and white rules; and this one is pretty easy to read.

“I had guys from my own club (Clyde) ringing me and asking me why we weren’t playing; I get it, I do.

“People work hard, Monday to Friday, and Saturday is their time to play cricket and have a few beers with their mates and that didn’t happen on the weekend.

“Does it need work; yes, I would have to agree with every single player that feels grumpy.

“It was a no-win situation on the weekend; but sometimes it’s unavoidable.”

Concern is growing within the CCCA cricket community that ‘Extreme’ ratings from the CFA could become more commonplace in the future.

Tucky on fire as Mud Rats make a move

By David Nagel

Hawthorn.

If the name ‘Michael Tuck’ was mentioned in a game of word-association then the famous AFL club with the brown and gold stripes would almost unanimously be the answer.

But the response would be different for players in the South West Gippsland Dart League (SWGDL) just two weeks into a freshly-minted 2025 season.

The answer to the same question after two rounds would be; “180-machine”.

Michael Tuck made it consecutive 180s on the second night of the season as the Mud Rats kept their undefeated start in tact with an 11-4 victory over Bullseyes.

Not to be outdone, the husband-and-wife combination of Bill and Chris Richardson also threw 180s as the Snipers moved to top-of-thetable with a thumping 14-1 win over AAA Dartz.

Three other teams also remain unconquered after impressive starts to the season.

Cheers scored an 11-4 win over Generals; Dart Devils were ruthless in a 12-3 victory over Dart Attack; while Just Social sat back quietly with the bye after its 11-4 round-one triumph.

In other games, Dart Vaders scored their first win of the season; with Fred Dewart leading the way with a 101-peg out in a 10-5 win over Gembrook; while Predators are also on the board after an 11-4 success over 26ers.

Dean Gibbs from Snipers maintained his lead in the most tons; adding four centuries to his impressive total of 10 from night one, while Jordan Gray from Predators closed the gap with five tons against 26ers.

The feature match-up in round three sees Dart Devils and Mud Rats come together for a battle of the top-four teams in the competition.

SWGDL SUMMARY – ROUND 2 RESULTS

Snipers def AAA Dartz 14-1, Dart Vaders def Gembrook 10-5, Predators def 26ers 11-4, Cheers def Generals 11-4, Dart Devils def Dart Attack 12-3, Mud Rats def Bullseyes 11-4; Bye: Just Social.

LADDER

Snipers, Cheers, Dart Devils, Mud Rats 8, Just Social, Bullseyes, Predators, Dart Vaders 4, Garfield Generals, Gembrook, Dart Attack, 26ers, AAA Dartz 0.

FIXTURE – R3

26ers v Snipers, AAA v Just Social, Predators v Generals, Dart Attack v Cheers, Dart Vaders v Bullseyes, Dart Devils v Mud Rats; Bye: Gembrook.

Dean Gibbs and Chris Richardson have been two of the stars in the opening two rounds of the South West Gippsland Dart League. (Supplied: 461231)

Pakenham’s Toomuc Reserve was a ‘ghost-town’ on Saturday,

Melbourne Storm Female Pathway players Eboni Heurea and Justice Huriwai-Daymond with Casey Mayor Stefan Koomen. (Supplied: 461814)

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