News - Pakenham Officer Star News - 27th February 2025

Vandals strike

By Afraa Kori

Police are investigating after six businesses were damaged in Pakenham on 25 February.

It is believed the businesses had their windows damaged on Main Street sometime overnight. At this stage, nothing is believed to have been stolen and the investigation remains ongoing.

Both small and large businesses in the area, including retailers, service providers, and community organisations, have been affected by theft.

Jackie Farrington’s store, Lazy Frog Gifts suffered significant damage, with two panes of glass broken, leaving actual holes. The impact was severe enough to scatter glass both inside and outside the building.

“I got a text message this morning saying that damage had been done and one of the shop owners had sent me a photo. Then I’m driving and my heart is racing, waiting to get in to have a look to see just how much damage is there.”

“Then when I go home tonight, I’m going to be thinking, am I going to walk into another two panels of glass being popped overnight? Are they going to come back and do it again to the two panes that they didn’t get last night? That sort of thing just lingers in the back of your head now.”

When she looks at the “willful damage”, Jackie finds herself asking why, though she knows some questions may never have an answer.

“It’s very frustrating and heartbreaking. I’m disappointed and angry. All those emotions all rolled into one. I just wish that the world wasn’t in such a condition it’s in.”

“They haven’t done it to break in to steal, they did it for the sake of damage. I can’t see the point behind it. It’s one of those pointless things to do.”

“It’s probably between $2-3k per pane of glass, so if we didn’t have insurance, then you’re looking at an easy $6-$7k. We’ve got insurance, but that doesn’t make it right.”

“All I’ve been doing today is dealing with insurance agencies and people coming to fix the glass.

I’ve been rearranging the space so that they can get in to fix the windows and get things boarded up. So it sort of gives you a bit of a nonday in your business as well. It just takes up your whole day!”

Owner Sandra Evans said Toyworld Pakenham was also targeted, adding to existing challenges. She had just dealt with a water leak and was set to have her flooring repaired today. Now, instead of one claim, she must file two separate

insurance claims within a week, creating further disruption.

“When all this took place, I spent two hours on the phone, going to insurance places and the

police,” she said.

“The police came and we had to shut the shop because the glazier came and our windows were unsafe. They thought they were going to explode.

So we had to shut the shop, which then made our daily sales very low.”

Continued page 2

Sandra Evans and Melissa Holden From Toyworld Pakenham and Little Munchkins Boutique. (Gary Sissons: 462049)

Australia Post Pakenham.

Lazy Frog Gifts.

Toyworld Pakenham and Little Munchkins Boutique.

Coffee with your concrete?

Many residents who walk along McGregor Road may not realise they are walking on not only regular concrete but “coffee concrete” - a site of innovation that is now nationally recognised.

Recently, RMIT University’s coffee biochar concrete won a prestigious Shaping Australia Award for its work on the Pakenham Roads Upgrade.

At the Shaping Australia Awards, the team’s outstanding work with coffee biochar and its applications in concrete has been recognised by the community, winning The Problem Solver award for 2024.

This work recognises groundbreaking research that has already transformed, or holds the potential to transform, the lives of Australians for the better.

The Shaping Australia Awards shine a spotlight on the impactful contributions universities make each day – shaping the nation’s future through teaching, research and community service.

Late last year, Major Road Projects Victoria worked with RMIT University and project contractor BildGroup to lay the first ever section of coffee biochar concrete along McGregor Road’s footpath.

For this project alone, five tonnes of spent coffee grounds – approximately 140,000 coffees worth of grounds – was converted into two tonnes

of useable biochar, which has been laid into the 30 cubic metres of concrete used in the footpath.

Organic waste in landfill, including spent coffee grounds, contributes three per cent of green-

house gas emissions. To overcome this challenge, the RMIT team developed a technique to convert spent coffee grounds into a coffee biochar made without oxygen and use this in

Numerous businesses targeted by vandals

From page 1

Sandra fears that local businesses may not survive unless the community starts supporting them.

“One day we’ll be gone if they don’t start supporting us,” she anxiously said.

“If it happens at the Post Office and Telstra, they can walk away and still get paid. Whereas Lazy Frog Gifts and I, we’re small business-run owners, so it affects more, it’s heartbreaking. We have an excess that we’ve got to all come up with, but it’s not even our fault, it’s just ridiculous.

Local businesses had expected Cardinia Shire Council to provide support during these challenging times, such as implementing security measures including CCTV cameras and onsite guards.

Many businesses are further calling for the legal system to impose harsher penalties on offenders, so “history doesn’t repeat itself”.

“They need to look at the penalties that they’re dishing out for repeat offenders. They need to have more consideration for the people whose lives are affected, because clearly they don’t care. Some thought has to be given to victims of crime in any way, shape or form.”

“We’re lucky that no one was hurt. But if this happened during the day, the glass could come tumbling down and cut somebody. Our glass is not safe. It can shatter a window and cut an artery and you’re dead before somebody comes along and finds you.”

Cardinia Shire Council’s Mayor, Cr Jack Kowarzik said they are devastated to hear about the theft and damage to several businesses.

“We are devastated to hear about the theft and damage to several businesses in Pakenham yesterday. These incidents not only harm the affected businesses and their owners but also impact the entire community. Local businesses are the backbone of our economy, providing jobs and services that are essential to our daily lives. I thank the Council staff who worked closely with these businesses yesterday in responding to this issue. They provided assistance to impacted businesses in identifying hazards to

shoppers, liaising with the police and generally offering support during a traumatic time.

“This incident further highlights why Council developed its Community Safety Framework which sets out the roles and responsibilities for Council and other stakeholders in increasing safety across the shire. We work closely with several agencies to take a collaborative approach, recognising that the safety of our community is everyone’s responsibility.”

Cardinia Shire Council’s general manager, Infrastructure and Environment, Peter Benazic added that Cardinia Shire Council has been gathering feedback from many residents and

concrete production.

Research conducted by RMIT indicates that the use of coffee biochar in concrete has the potential to increase the strength of concrete by up to 30%, reduce the amount of fine aggregate sand needed in a concrete mix. This innovation has the potential to result in a more ecologically friendly and economical alternative to traditional concrete mixes.

The Pakenham Roads Upgrade has completed major works on Stage 1 of the project, delivering new ramps and lanes on the Princes Freeway and a new bridge on Healesville-Kooweerup Road over the freeway. Works are underway on Stage 2 of the project to widen the McGregor Road citybound freeway entry ramp.

businesses in Pakenham as part of the Public Realm Strategy.

“Council has been working with various crime prevention professionals, including Victoria Police to revitalise Pakenham with more safety and accessibility features being a key consideration. This includes improved lighting that provides more consistent coverage over the full streetscape to improve the experience and safety at night. “ “Height of traders’ awnings, light fall and tree canopy have all been considered to increase visibility and improve safety in the area.”

Laying the coffee biochar concrete.

RMIT University’s Dr. Rajeev Roychand (pictured centre) celebrating the successful laying of coffee biochar concrete with MRPV and BildGroup staff on the Pakenham Roads Upgrade. Pictured from left:

MRPV’s Kristian Horana and Paul Sklepic, RMIT University’s Dr. Rajeev Roychand and BildGroup’s Stephen Hill and Gary Fox. (Supplied)

Alex Scott and Staff Real Estate.

Lazy Frog Gifts.

Spike in those seeking help

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, in-

formation 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 part-time 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.

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

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)

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

Andrew Simmons, ceo of SELLEN, said that the housing stress in Casey is very present, and is something that many struggle with. (On File)

Transport woes in the hills

By Afraa Kori

Pakenham Upper’s roads are “only“ designed for cars, leaving seniors, students, and children who rely on public transport to face daily obstacles just to get around.

With bus stops few and far between, residents like Natalia Pedan walk up to 1.5 km along windy roads with no sidewalks, steep drops, and no streetlights, making travel on foot unsafe, especially in the dark.

“I only wish there were more bus stops as it can be dangerous to walk on windy roads with no walking paths. There is a lot of wildlife too,” she said.

“We are in between worlds, not rural, not urban. There is a bus between Pakenham and Gembrook that not many know about, but it only runs a few times a day, so it’s not feasible to use for commuting, as much as we tried.

“My mum, for example, who came from Ukraine when the war started doesn’t drive. So she can’t even go to Gembrook market on Sundays to sell her artworks as there are no buses on Sundays. She now has to stay in the suburbs more to be able to do basic things as she doesn’t drive.“

Seniors rely on buses more than other groups, but missing one can be frustrating. Drivers sometimes accommodate by quietly looping back if they see someone waving. One resident recalled chasing a bus, only for the driver to return and pick them up.

Natalia added that public transport in the area is not only limited but also poorly maintained.

“Our closest bus stop (mount Burnett) is literally just a stick in the ground, and I noticed it’s seriously bent so someone must have driven into it already. I saw quite a lot of accidents with motorcycles especially.”

“Also there’s dangerous trees that, especially after storms, absorb water and then drop branches and whole trees unexpectedly.”

Residents are urging the Cardinia Shire Council and the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) to install additional bus stops, improve existing ones with more space and shelter, and extend Bus 840 services to include Sundays after 6 pm.

“It would be great to connect The Hills and central Pakenham more, there is so much nature and art around Gembrook, Emerald, Cockatoo and surrounds,” Natalia said.

“Have better transport between areas of the same shire (Cardinia) to help tourism, as well as farming as most farm hands don’t have their own cars. And we are trying to improve sustainability and reduce the number of cars!”

Cardinia Shire Council’s Mayor Cr Jack Kowarzik understands residents’ frustration with the current public transport options around the shire, as these services provide essential access to jobs, health, education, tourism and social connection.

“Our state public transport system isn’t providing the support our rapidly growing community needs, and a bus service review is critically overdue,” he said.

“The responsibility for managing our local public transport and implementing new services sits with the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP).”

“As we are unable to directly impact our public transport services, Council is continually meeting with DTP to strongly advocate for improved public transport for the entire community.”

“Currently the public transport option through Pakenham Upper is the 840 Pakenham to Gembrook bus service, which has a low operating frequency, with limited services per day.” Council has previously advocated to DTP for a review to be completed to improve this service for our residents living in the Hills, as we understand that transport and access options are more limited in these regional and rural townships.

According to DTP, there are currently no immediate plans to modify Route 840 or add more routes to Pakenham Upper, however, all feedback will be considered as part of future planning works.

DTP recognises there is more work to do and is committed to ongoing investment to improve the bus network as community needs evolve.

“Buses play an important role in meeting the travel needs of people living in Melbourne’s outer suburbs including the 840 bus route that provides customers in Gembrook and Pakenham Upper a direct public transport option to Pakenham train station.”

“Victoria’s Big Build has invested more than $1 billion in major road and rail upgrades across Pakenham, including two new train stations, the removal of three level crossings and key upgrades to local roads,“ DTP spokesperson said.

“By the end of the year, every level crossing on the Pakenham and Cranbourne lines will be gone to make way for the Metro Tunnel, which will deliver more services and connections to Melbourne’s major health and education precincts.“

“I would like to encourage our community to have their say on Council’s priorities for the next four years, by participating in the upcoming Council Plan consultation which will be running in the coming months,” Mayor Kowarzik said.

Council seeks out feedback from residents regarding its proposed strategies and policies where possible through ’Creating Cardinia’ website.

“This is an important time for residents to engage with Council and share what’s important to them.”

Natalia and her mum Tania showing how close car pass by when you wait at a bus stop. (Supplied)

Natalia close to cars.

Natalia.

Bent sign.

No footpath for Tania to walk on.

Housing targets slashed

By Violet Li

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

The finalised housing targets were published on Monday 24 February, where Casey’s quotas by 2051 dropped from 104,000 in the draft plan to 87,000 by about 16 per cent, including 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.

“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 Cssey Council was confident that it could achieve its housing targets.

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

Casey will be expected to accommodate 87,000 new homes by 2051. (FILE)

‘Non negotiables’ for hub

By Violet Li

The proposed Cranbourne Hub is out for feedback but for residents, they won’t be able to have a say on budget allocation, services within the building, the proposed location, the scale of the building, and assets and services outside of the property footprint.

According to Casey Council, these are ‘nonnegotiables’, but they are seeking feedback on the concept design.

The proposed $40.3 million community services hub at 1-3 Lyall Street will house the Connected Libraries (Cranbourne branch), City of Casey’s Customer Service and Cranbourne Youth Information Centre all in one convenient location, in an attempt to offer the community access to a variety of services in one convenient location.

Peninsula Community Legal Centre has been identified as a preferred community service to be included in the proposed Cranbourne Hub concept design.

The draft concept design has been exhibited on Casey Conversations, including floor plans for three levels.

Communities are welcome to provide their feedback on some elements of the design.

The public consultation will close on Sunday 16 March. Council officers will consider commu-

nity feedback and share the community engagement summary report in March this year.

Council will also seek endorsement to adopt the project into the Capital Works Program this

year. The hub is expected to open in 2029.

To submit your feedback: conversations. casey.vic.gov.au/Cranbourne-hub

The council will conduct the following community drop-in sessions:

Cranbourne Youth Information Centre

■ Cranbourne Park Shopping Centre, High Street, Cranbourne 3976

Wednesday 26 February, 3pm – 5pm

■ Cranbourne West Community Hub

■ 4 Flicka Blvd, Cranbourne West 3977

■ Wednesday 5 March, 10am - 12pm

■ Cranbourne Library

■ 65 Berwick-Cranbourne Rd, Cranbourne East 3977

Thursday 6 March, 2pm – 4pm

■ Orana Community Centre

■ 16/18 Playwright St, Clyde North 3978

■ Wednesday 12 March, 11am – 1pm

■ Lyall Street

■ 1/3 Lyall Street, Cranbourne 3977

■ Thursday 13 March, 3pm - 5pm

$41.75 million upgrade for Thompsons Road

The Federal Government announced its $41.75 million investment in the upgrade of the Thompsons Road Intersection in Clyde North on Saturday 22 February.

The project will upgrade the intersection of Thompsons and Berwick-Cranbourne Roads, replacing the existing roundabout with traffic lights and completing associated works to the bus bays and shared user pathways.

The upgrade will increase capacity and improve traffic flow at the congested roundabout by installing additional through lanes and dedicated turning lanes.

It will also improve safety and enhance freight productivity by cutting time off the freight trips around Melbourne’s south east.

The project will deliver new walking and cycling paths to improve connections through the area, along with upgrades to several bus stops near the intersection.

The Federal Government and the State Government are jointly funding the project, with the State Government already committing their half, according to a media release from Federal Minister for Infrastructure Catherine King.

Construction timeframes will be determined in consultation with the State Government.

Ms King said: “We’re building Australia’s future, investing in Victoria’s road network to make it safer and more resilient.

“Unlike the Liberals and Nationals who starved the Victorians of infrastructure funding, we are investing in projects across the state.

“There are more than 110 active major projects across Victoria and the Albanese Labor Government is getting on with delivering all of them.”

Holt MP Cassandra Fernando said she was pleased that she had been able to successfully advocate for this crucial road upgrade.

Federal and State MPs gathered in Clyde North on the morning of Saturday 22 February to announce the Federal’s $41.75 million investment in the upgrade of the Thompsons Road Intersection, including South-Eastern Metropolitan MP Lee Tarlamis, South-Eastern Metropolitan MP Michael Galea, Holt MP Cassandra Fernando, Federal Minister for Infrastructure Catherine King, State Minister for Infrastructure Transport Gabrielle Williams, Bruce MP Julian Hill, and Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards. (Gary Sissons: 460975)

“This $41.75 million investment by the Federal Labor Government will ease one of our community’s worst bottlenecks, making daily commutes smoother and safer,” she said.

“This means less time on the roads and more

OPINION

Clarity needed

It seems that the new Casey Councillors have upset ratepayers again at the meeting on Tuesday.

After incorrect information on their website caused concern they have re-written the Private Land Use Permit information several times but it’s still not clear and some ratepayers have their own interpretation.

Early on it claimed you couldn’t repair an RV on your own property without a permit but this has since been changed to you can’t use an RV (dirt bike etc.) on your own property without a permit.

This makes sense as it could, depending on the size and location of your property, impact on neighbours.

The big issue with the ratepayers seems to be the number of unregistered vehicles you can have on your property, apparently two before you need to apply for a permit.

time spent with your family.”

Bruce MP Julian Hill said Victoria was totally screwed for a decade by the Liberals on infrastructure funding.

“The Federal Labor Government is treating

I understand that if you have multiple vehicles in various states of disrepair around your property it could be an eyesore and potentially affect local house prices.

But why restrict it to two? What if you have a four-car garage with four unregistered vehicles that nobody can see, is that an issue?

Many ratepayers restore old vehicles and may have several vehicle undergoing restoration at any one time.

If, for example, I have 20 unregistered vintage motorcycles in my garage do I need permits for 18 of them?

At the meeting on Tuesday the Councillors did little, if anything, to explain their ‘law’ or dispel any misinformation.

They seemed to answer several questions with the same pre-prepared answer.

The best answer was not relating to the permit system. A question was asked about the meeting start time, due to people working 9-5 could

Victoria fairly, and fixing this terrible intersection is a community priority,” he said.

“Numerous locals have raised it when I’ve been doorknocking in Cranbourne North, so I’m pleased to champion funding to fix this.”

the meetings start later, a Councillor replied that they’d had a meeting last year and 6pm was decided..... ! So I guess that’s a no then ? Casey Council is not able to re-schedule meeting times to allow ratepayers to attend after work.

Much of the Private Land Use Permit system seems to make some sense although it could also be just a money grab by the new Council. They really need to explain the system in much more detail and when questions are asked at a meeting actually answer those questions along with some form of explanation.

The actions of the ratepayers attending the meeting on Tuesday doesn’t help (except to get more publicity) but it’s understandable considering the poor communication from the Council.

This Council has been with us a very short time and is making news headlines across Australia for all the wrong reasons, how long before it’s back under administration? Name withheld

Artistic impression of the proposed Cranbourne Hub. (Casey Conversations)

Knives off the streets

Victoria Police has announced a record number of knives were seized in 2024 from Victorian Streets.

With almost 40 blades found and destroyed each day by the police, the announcement comes after recent recovery of 930 samurai swords, zombie knives and katana swords at Dandenong South factory by the Springvale Divisional Response Unit.

The investigation commenced after police became aware an online company was allegedly selling prohibited weapons without a license or permit – including to known youth offenders.

Police performed an early morning raid on Monday 10 February at the Goodall Close factory, which allegedly acts as a distribution centre for the company.

The alleged director of the company – a 40-year-old man from Toorak – was interviewed at Springvale Police Station on Tuesday 25 February in relation to a range of offences, including selling prohibited weapons to children, displaying prohibited weapons for sale, and possessing prohibited weapons without an exemption.

No charges have been laid yet, however he is expected to be charged on summons.

Greater Dandenong, Casey and Cardinia Investigations and Response Inspector Natalie Dol-

lard says Police are “zeroing in” not on those who use edged weapons but also those who illegally sell them.

“If you are knowingly selling prohibited weapons to anyone, particularly children, there are serious repercussions.

“In addition to our work at grassroots level, Victoria Police is also providing intelligence to Australian Border Force around the supply of illegal weapons into the country.”

This haul comes after Victoria Police seized a

record 14,797 knives, swords, daggers, and machetes last year – the most at any time over the past decade.

The total number of edged weapon seizures jumped from 11,331in 2015 to 13,063 in 2023.

Acting Commander Michael Cruse, Victoria Police knife crime portfolio holder says despite the increasing number of knives being seized, there’s a reduction in the number of stabbings across Victoria.

“We know the carriage and use of knives creates fear and apprehension within the community.

“That’s why Victoria Police is determined to take as many knives, swords, and machetes out of the hands of criminals as possible.

“Despite public incidents dominating the headlines, the real impact of knife crime is still felt at home with more than half of all stabbings in residential settings and a fifth family violence related.”

Almost 19 per cent of the stabbings were family violence relates, with almost 52 per cent stabbings were in a residential location with family violence, disputes between associates, drugs, alcohol and mental health as contributing factors.

Police seize most knives from residential addresses during targeted search warrants on

known offenders, rather than from people carrying them within the community.

OMNI Operations are another useful tool available to police, enabling officers to conduct planned weapons searches in designated areas where violence has previously occurred involving edged weapons.

In the past four financial years, Victoria Police has detected and seized almost 450 weapons during these operations.

While youth gangs are only involved in 10 per cent of all stabbings, police know these people are those most likely to be carrying and using knives in public.

This emphasises the importance of operations like Operations Alliance, conducting regular bail compliance checks, search warrants, vehicle intercepts, and patrols where they hang out.

Operation Alliance led to the arrest of 466 youth gang members a total of 1,791 times over the past year.

Almost 4,750 charges were laid in relation to these matters.

Anyone with information about prohibited weapons is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.

Arts workshop a success for Uniting Church

By Violet Li

Hampton Park Uniting Church hosted a free arts workshop on Saturday 22 February, in the lead-up 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.”

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

Mary Murphy was painting a vase (Pakistani Truck-Art). (Gary Sissons: 456205)

Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas was getting a selfie.

Kimiora Daniel, Cooke Islands Maori, was learning indigenous art.

Facilitator Sierra Balsom was teaching at the workshop.

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.

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

FOCUS ON … EDUCATION CHOICES

Treat them clean, keep green

Sustainability is a focus of many schools these days, with students often encouraged to engage in practices such as packing ‘nude’ lunches, recycling and switching off lights when not in use. How can parents help encourage their kids to be sustainable students?

Here are eight tips from Sustainability Victoria:

1. Lunches - get the kids to make their own lunch and use containers suited to nude food, eliminating the need for disposable wrapping. If you do need to wrap, reusable beeswax wraps can be used. Find out about them online or do a course on making them at your local neighborhood house or community arts centre.

2. Make your own snacks - despite what they say, many kids have plenty of time on their hands. Teach them to make their own muesli bars and other snacks. Be patient, it’s a great life skill. They will learn to be more independent and have fun doing it!

3. Get more value - use the ‘Love Food Hate Waste’ website to get great recipes to use last night’s leftovers in exciting ways for school (and work) lunches.

4. Use what you’ve got - save money by digging out pens, pencils and other consumables from drawers, cupboards and bags, rather than buying new ones. Many stationery makers also have a range of notebooks made from recycled paper.

5. Textbooks and uniforms - most schools have secondhand book and uniform shops, but your local op shop is also worth trying. Many high

St James Catholic School

Committed to your child’s academic, spiritual & emotional development

Where every student is known, nurtured & respected. Enrolments for Foundation to Year 6 are currently open

school English and literature books are available for free on Kindle. For other subjects, ask teachers what the difference is with this year’s version of a textbook compared with last year’s, as the older edition may still be suitable.

6. Walking or riding to school is a great way to stay fit. It saves fuel and reduces vehicle pollution and traffic jams at the school gate. Otherwise, park a short distance from the school and walk with the kids and use it as an opportunity to teach road rules. Catching the bus may also be an option.

7. Buying a desk, bookcase or filing cabinet? Second-hand office furniture shops often have very modern goods at a much better price than new and they will last. It is also worth checking out Facebook Marketplace for some great quality bargains.

8. Ask your school to join the ResourceSmart Schools program offered by Sustainability Victoria. Supporting schools within the state to embed sustainability measures across the school facilities, community and curriculum, once a school joins the program, it will have access to an online portal to learn and practice ways of integrating sustainability while also saving resources and money for the school.

FOCUS ON … EDUCATION CHOICES

Kynan’s journey to success

ECG Secondary College (ECG) is excited to introduce Year 9 classes at its Pakenham campus starting in 2025, offering an alternative and supportive learning environment for students seeking a different approach to education. This initiative is in response to increasing disengagement among Year 9-12 students in Victorian mainstream schools and is designed to help them re-engage with their education in a way that suits their individual needs and aspirations.

“We would like to express our deepest gratitude to everyone at ECG for the incredible support and guidance you have given Kynan. Reaching the milestone of passing Year 12 is something he once thought impossible, but thanks to ECG, he not only achieved it—he thrived.

Before joining ECG, Kynan struggled with confidence and dreaded school, often feeling overwhelmed and unhappy. Hearing about ECG from a former student gave him hope, and after meeting Eamon (Campus Principal), he decided to give it a try.

Since then, Kynan has transformed back into the happy, confident, and funny person he once was. He loved being in Kim’s class, and we are grateful for the positive impact she had on his journey.

Thank you, ECG, for making a real difference in the lives of students like Kynan. We are truly grateful.“ said Kynan’s parents.

A New Pathway for Students in Pakenham Kynan’s story is one of many growing numbers of young people who are expressing dissatisfaction with traditional schooling methods, particularly the pressure of exams and academic workloads. ECG recognises the unique challenges faced by teenage students during these formative years and has redefined the educational experience by placing nurturing relationships at the heart of its

teaching approach.

The new Year 9 program at the Pakenham campus provides a second chance for students located in the surrounding areas to re-engage with their education in a way that suits their individual needs and aspirations. The curriculum focuses on hands-on learning, skills development, and real-world experiences, ensuring that students are prepared not only for further education but also for future employment opportunities.

Currently, ECG offers Year 10 and Years 11 and 12 (VPC and VCE Vocational Major and Victorian Pathways Certificate programs) across all four of its campuses in Warragul, Leongatha, Pakenham

and Dandenong. ECG is also extending invites for Expressions of Interest (EOI) for mid-year enrolment in Year 9 for the 2025 academic year at its Pakenham campus.

“We understand that not every student thrives in the conventional academic setting,” said Russel Praetz, Principal at ECG. “By launching these Year 9 classes at Pakenham, we aim to provide a nurturing space where students can rediscover their passion for learning with a hands-on approach. Students will receive tailored support to help develop their confidence, life skills, and career readiness, ensuring they are set up for success in their chosen pathways.”

Small steps, big hearts win the day at

Last Friday, the big day finally arrived for 88 new Foundation (Prep) students who began their school journey at St Clare’s Primary School in Officer.

The students and their families started the year with many feelings and expectations, some anxiety and hesitancy but also with big dreams for what lies ahead.

This year we even have broke our record with having five sets of twins.

The first ever school day began with a walk along the red carpet where families were welcomed by Principal, Ms Helen Staindl.

Each student received a special medal of St Clare, which came all the way from Assisi in Italy as a reminder of our school’s Patron Saint.

Once inside, students and families were greeted by four very enthusiastic and excited teachers. The Foundation teachers and all staff are looking forward to a great year.

They will work with the students as they become familiar with school life and routines,

supporting them all to do their best in a kind and welcoming environment.

St Clare’s is a Catholic Primary School with over six hundred students ranging from Foundation to Year Six. Our core beliefs are built

around the teachings of Jesus with our school’s vision of faith, wisdom and courage at the heart of all we do.

As we begin this new school year, we welcome all new students and staff who join our

A Learning Environment Where Students Can Thrive

At ECG, students and staff work together in a learning community where everyone is encouraged to THRIVE—both in their academic achievements and their overall wellbeing. The school’s values embrace each student’s unique journey, helping them set meaningful goals and achieve their full potential.

ECG’s curriculum is built on its T.H.R.I.V.E Learning Model, which fosters a Therapeutic environment focused on the Holistic development of skills for success in life. The approach centres around building positive and nurturing Relationships while offering Individualised education plans and differentiated instruction tailored to each student’s needs. With a strong focus on Vocational pathways, ECG connects students to VET education and taster programs, promoting Engagement, Enrichment, and Excellence in every student’s journey.

The curriculum promotes resilience, confidence, health, wellbeing, and practical life skills, all tailored to student interests. At the heart of ECG’s educational offerings are the four pillars of applied learning, supported by rich experiential learning opportunities in Years 11 and 12, and project-based learning aligned with the Victorian Curriculum standards for Years 9 and 10.

With mid-year enrolments open, ECG is encouraging students and families to explore this unique opportunity to step into a learning environment that understands and meets their needs.

To learn more or to apply, please visit https:// ecg.vic.edu.au/enrol-with-us/ or contact 03 5622 6000 or info@ecg.vic.gov.au.

vibrant school community of learners.

If you are interested in visiting St Clare’s, school tours take place on Monday mornings. Appointments can be made by contacting our administration staff.

Helen Staindl School Principal

A learning environment where students can thrive.

Magical and messy time

By Afraa Kori

Messy Giggles hosted a fairytale-themed messy session, uniting children and families from Pakenham and surrounding areas on February 22.

Fairytale Messy Play session was a truly enchanting experience, where children entered the world of their favourite stories through hands-on, sensory-rich exploration.

From the whimsical landscapes of classic tales to the creative magic of arts and crafts, every moment was filled with laughter, curiosity, and discovery. Families came together to celebrate the joy of learning through play, making it a truly memorable event.

Messy Giggles is not just about messy play—it is a purposeful, play-based learning experience designed by two VIT-registered early childhood teachers with a deep understanding of child development.

Every session is carefully crafted to support cognitive, social, and fine motor development, making it both fun and meaningful for children of all abilities. Our approach ensures that play is rich in learning opportunities, fostering imagination, problem-solving, and social connections.

Co-founders and facilitators of Messy Giggles, Dasni and Mewanda said it was heartwarming to see babies exploring new textures for the first time, toddlers fully immersed in sensory play, and preschoolers engaging in imaginative storytelling through hands-on activities.

“One of the most magical moments was

watching children fully immerse themselves in their favourite fairy tales—from scooping “porridge” in the Goldilocks and the Three Bears tray to shaping their own gingerbread men with moon dough.“

“The Little Mermaid gloop tray was a standout favourite, as little hands swirled through the colourful, slippery textures, discovering hidden mermaids beneath the waves. Laughter and excitement filled the room as children worked together in the Three Little Pigs rice tray, scooping, pouring, and imagining themselves building sturdy homes to keep the Big Bad Wolf away. Seeing their joy, curiosity, and creativity unfold was truly the heart of this event.”

February 26th marks Tell a Fairytale Day, a celebration of storytelling and imagination. To honour this special occasion, we brought beloved fairy tales to life through sensory play, allowing children to touch, feel, and experience the magic of their favourite stories in a way that only Messy Giggles can offer.

Messy Giggles runs fortnightly, bringing new and exciting themes every two weeks to keep little learners engaged, curious, and eager to explore!

“We can’t wait for our next session on March 8th, where a Dr. Seuss-inspired sensory experience awaits,” Dasni and Mewanda said.

“We’ll be celebrating Dr. Seuss’ birthday through imaginative sensory play, bringing his whimsical stories to life in a hands-on and engaging way.”

Three little pigs - sensory tuff tray.

Wyatt,11 months.

Dasni and Mewanda are Co-founders and facilitators of Messy Giggles. (Supplied)

Xavier from Pakenham.

Micky and Billy from Pakenham. Archer.

Micky and Billy from Pakenham. Archer.

Eugene.

Xavier from Pakenham.

Goldilocks and the three bears.

Asher from Pakenham.

Heat is on for waste station

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 plan-

ning 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.”

You’re Invited!

Cardinia Shire’s Night of Nights

Join us for the Cardinia Community Foundation & Rotary Club of Pakenham

Gala Dinner FUNDRAISER

Southside Racing Pakenham 420 Nar Nar Goon - Longwarry Road, Tynong

Date: Saturday 5th April

RSVP by 22 March 2025

Bookings: TryBooking

An Evening of Fun, Networking & Fundraising

Enjoy a spectacular night filled with: Great company and networking opportunities Entertainment to keep you dancing Delicious food and drinks

Exciting fundraising activities and auctions

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Funds raised will support local community groups and initiatives that strengthen our region and foster a brighter future for Cardinia Shire.

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.

Don’t miss this chance to celebrate, connect, and contribute to our amazing community.

Be part of the Cardinia Shire’s most anticipated event of the year!

Secure your tickets today – spots are limited!

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

Narre Warren South MP Gary 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. (Supplied)

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.

“Theywerealovelycrowd,lotsofwonderfulquestions 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

Calls for more information as magpie shot with 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”.

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.

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 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.”

She’s on the money!

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

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.

Offenders face maximum penalties of more than $9,870 and/or six months imprisonment.

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

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.” 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

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

Wood chop action featuring Adele Deverell from Kilmore (right). (Garry Sissons: 461701_01)

Maya, 4, from Carrum riding.

Don Buchanan part of the Berwick and District Woodworkers Club.

Two magpies were shot with arrows at Narre Warren and Seaford in February. (On File)

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

Job loss concerns

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.

Calls for support

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 regulator 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.”

“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 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.”

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.”

Housing Minister Claire O’Neil toured the Dandenong facility with AWU officials on Friday 21 February.

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)

Oceania Glass in Dandenong South.

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.

Koomen further added that the safety and well-being of the community and the staff were a top priority, highlighting that the situation during the meeting escalated to the point where police

presence was necessary due to the actions of certain individuals.

“I understand there is a real frustration over the five years under administration - the new councillors acknowledge this and we’re looking forward to listening to and representing our community,” he said.

“However, last (that) night’s behaviour is not the way to go about this.”

The open mic thought was echoed widely throughout the entire meeting, with residents confidently and constantly yelling out their questions and demands, adding on top of the registered questions, queries should 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 out 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.

Looking ahead, Koomen said that as it stands, 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 andalsoranfortheCaseyCouncilElectionlastyear, 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 resubmitthequestion,itwilljustbedismissedasan answer has already been given.”

Anthony said he witnessed frustration amongst attendees that questions weren’t being directly re-

sponded to.

“Iwasstandingatthebackoftheroom,andpeople 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 call-out.

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.

Otherresidentsinthefrontrow,wherethequestionsubmitterswereseated,stoodupafter60questions 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.

Garrysaidhewasnotsurprisedwhenthewhole 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 becausethebylawsareprettyclearonprivatelanduse permits.”

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 aroundtheprocessforsubmittingapublicquestion and to explain how Council Meetings are run.”

City of Casey’s newly elected mayor and councillor Stefan Koomen said council meetings should be made as accessible as possible for members of the community to come and be involved. (Stewart Chambers: 442356)

WHAT’S ON

Cardinia Fun Run and Walk is BACK in 2025!

Cardinia Leisure are thrilled to once again be able to hold the popular 5km & 10km Fun Run and Walk on Sunday 2 March 2025.

It runs from 7:30 AM - 11:30 AM at Deep Creek Reserve, Cameron Way, Pakenham VIC.

Open Gardens Victoria - Casely 2025

The garden of Peter Sheppard (known nationally as ‘The Shoeman’ due to his high profile as the recipient of an OAM for services to the footwear industry) is a diverse garden featuring three garden rooms.

The event runs on Saturday 1 March from 10am4:30pm at 2025/25 Salisbury Rd, Beaconsfield Upper VIC 3808.

Bunyip Show

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

Held on Sunday 23 March from 9am-5pm at the Bunyip Recreation Reserve.

Officer Probus Club

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

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

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

Pakenham Arthritis Self-Help Group

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

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

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

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

Warm water exercises are held at Cardinia Life from 8:15 am to 9:15 am on Tuesdays and Thursdays plus afternoon sessions at 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm on Tuesday and Friday afternoons.

Chair exercises are held at the Pakenham Hall in the Supper Room and run from 10:30 am to 11:15

am on Mondays and Thursdays.

• For additional information contact bernadette. lilley56@gmail or Mobile at 0411 098 519

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

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

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

Line dancing

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

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

Morning tea or coffee included.

Inner Wheel Club of Berwick

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

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

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

Berwick Springs VIEW Club

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

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

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

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

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

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

Probus Club of Pakenham East

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

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

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

Various activities are held throughout the month.

• For more information, phone president Gary on 0428 255 178 or contact secretary Dorothy on probuspakenhameast@gmail.com

U3A Casey

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

It offers 65 different classes, ranging from exercise/movement/dance groups to literature, crafts, music, discussion groups and more.

Membership from July to December is $30 with no further costs.

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

Yoga and meditation

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

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

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

No previous experience is required.

Bring your own yoga mat.

Gold coin donation welcome.

Casey Cardinia Life Activities Club

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

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

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

Day, short and long trips away via coach, a weekly morning coffee club, monthly Saturday country pub lunches, monthly Tuesday dine-outs, a weekly

walking group, a weekly table tennis group, seasonal daytime musical theatre outings, entertainment function days and more.

Anyone interested can visit on Thursdays at 2pm for socialising and low-key dancing at Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House at 21A Bemersyde Drive or join the club for a coffee and a chat every Wednesday from 10am at the new François cafe in front of Myer in Fountain Gate.

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

Cardinia Diabetic Awareness Group

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

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

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

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

BADFolk Club

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

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

The club also welcomes spot acts. Doors now open from 6.30pm and the music runs from 7pm to 10pm, no bookings required, entry $15.The kitchen sells sweet and savoury snack food and a variety of drinks – tea, coffee, wine, beer, soft drinks.

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

Scrabble Club

Berwick Activities Club is hosting a Scrabble Club every Friday from 1pm to 3.30pm. It will be both competitive and social on a one-to-one basis. Come along to learn how to play or improve your game.

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

• Contact David on 0433 566 456.

12752228-KF08-25

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 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

to the implementation of the CCCA’s Extreme Heat Policy.

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 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.

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 dictating 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

concluding

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.

Pakenham’s Toomuc Reserve was a ‘ghost-town’ on Saturday, as were many other grounds around Casey and Cardinia, after cricket was abandoned due

(Stewart Chambers: 460859)

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

his two-year-old season in the Group 2 Sires Produce.

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)

Danger signs for Pakenham

By David Nagel

An extreme ‘top-four danger rating’ has been issued to the Pakenham Cricket Club with the Lions’ finals prospects now in jeopardy heading into round 14 of the CCCA Premier Division.

The Lions, who made 6/397 on day one of their clash against Devon Meadows last week, appeared safe from danger, but were left frustrated on Saturday; banking six points instead of a certain 12 after the CCCA implemented the following By-Law:

BL 24.2 FIRE DANGER RATING

If the Fire Danger Rating as declared by theCFAfortheCentralDistrictisExtremeor higher all CCCA Cricket shall be cancelled, notethisRatingisdifferenttoTotalFireBan DayRatings.

Meanwhile, not far away at Clyde, the Cougars dodged a bullet; not having to make an attempt on Tooradin’s imposing day-one (9/349) total.

What appeared certain to be an 18-point gap between the fourth-placed Lions and fifth-placed Cougars has stayed at six points; meaning fourth place is well and truly up for grabs over the next fortnight.

If Pakenham wins against Tooradin, it is safe, but a loss to the Seagulls, and victory to Clyde over Cardinia, would see the Cougars leap-frog the Lions into the top four.

PAKENHAM V TOORADIN

As usual, Pakenham and Tooradin will play in front of one of the biggest crowds of the season when the Lions and Seagulls try to knock the pink stumps over on the front ground at Pakenham.

The only problem is, most of the 240 females that rock up to Pink Ladies Day on Saturday couldn’t care less about the cricket; they’re more interested in a laugh and a good time and smashing down as many of Phil Anning’s famous ‘pink lemonade and vodka’ drinks as they can!

If the ladies did happen to look over the balcony for a minute or two...they would actually see some very good cricket.

These two made a combined 746 runs in round 13, with class acts Chris Smith (229 not out) and Tom Hussey (116) contributing 47-percent of those.

But don’t be fooled; Jason Williams (56) and Dom Paynter (47) were also in fine touch for the Lions while Tyler Evans (75) and Josh Lownds (52) raised their bats for fifties for the Gulls.

Tooradin won a cracking edition of the corresponding clash last year by four runs (7/257 to 9/253) after the Lions were cruising at 1/173 on day two.

It was a great kick-start to a premiership-winning run and both teams will be keen to take winning form into this year’s finals series.

The Lions have two chances to qualify for finals in round-14; but winning over the Seagulls would eliminate cause for concern.

But the ‘top four danger rating’ will remain extreme, with Tooradin to lock down a toptwo position with another very tight victory.

CARDINIA V CLYDE

Cardinia will look to keep its four-game undefeated streak alive when the top-of-thetable Bulls host a desperate Clyde at Gunton Oval on Saturday.

Losses either side of Christmas, to Tooradin and Kooweerup, put some question marks over the Bulls’ ability to compete with the best sides in the comp, but their response has been very impressive.

The Bulls thumped Pakenham and Tooradin before claiming outright victory over Devon Meadows, before weather intervened on both days against bottom-side Merinda Park. Missing two weeks of cricket is not the ideal preparation for two-day finals so the Bulls will be dead-keen to strip things back and play a solid 160-over game.

Alex Nooy has been the Bulls number-one marksman this season, while Matt Welsh, Yohan Arumadura and skipper Mark Cooper are also looming as threats.

The Bulls appear to have locked away a top-two position, 20 points clear of third, but could fall from that lofty rating if three things go against them.

If they lose handsomely; and Tooradin defeats Pakenham and Kooweerup thumps Devon Meadows outright; the Bulls could free-fall to third position.

It’s highly unlikely, but just enough of a carrot to keep the home-ground Bulls on their game.

As for Clyde; well, it has a free swing at this one.

The Cougars finals prospects looked dead and buried last week before an Extreme Fire Danger Rating came to their rescue.

But whatever happens this week, Trevor Bauer and his Cougars can well-and-truly hold their heads high.

They have transformed a ‘four-team stranglehold’ into a ‘fab-five’ this season, and will hopefully improve further and make even more of a mark next season.

The Cougars have been brave, and they’re still in the hunt; but it’s the Bulls to keep their undefeated streak alive.

KOOWEERUP V DEVON MEADOWS

A lot will have to go right for Kooweerup to secure second place and a home semi-final in round-14 of the CCCA Premier Division.

The third-placed Demons have to roll Devon Meadows (sixth) outright at Denhams Road and hope Pakenham (fourth) do the right thing and roll reigning-premier Tooradin (second) in the ‘Pink Ladies Day’ clash at Toomuc Reserve.

It’s a big if…but if anyone can do it it’s the Demons.

The strike-force of Luke McMaster, Jess Mathers and Adam McMaster is set to have a huge bearing on ‘March Madness’ this year…and a ferocious finish to the season against a ‘nothing-to-play-for’ Devon Meadows could be the beginning of a serious confidence-boost that propels the Demons to glory.

They’ve had their ups and downs have the Demons but only care about playing their best cricket at this time of the season.

Kooweerup has the ability, with both bat and ball, to have a red-hot crack at the Panthers in the early stages of this contest.

As well as the aforementioned bowling attack, the Demons have batters like Chris Bright, Luke McMaster, Shiran Rathnayake, Mitch Davey and Mathers that all score rapidly when the moment requires it.

Expect a heavy slips cordon to be set if the Demons bowl first; and a run-a-ball strike

rate if they bat…it’s going to be a ‘handle bars down’ approach from the outset.

What transpires at Pakenham will have a heavy bearing on what takes place at Denhams Road on day-two…but it’s the Demons to win handsomely.

MERINDA PARK V UPPER BEACONSFIELD

And Merinda Park will play its last game of Premier Division cricket for at least the next 18 months when the Cobras welcome Upper Beaconsfield on Saturday.

If all goes according to plan, October 2026 will be the next time we lay eyes on the Cobras in the top-flight after being a Premier Division regular since 2012.

It’s been a frustrating season for the Cobras, who have tested some of the best teams in the competition but just haven’t been able to land a blow.

The Cobras percentage (0.64) - a great indication of sustained competitiveness - is better than Devon Meadows (0.58) and Upper Beaconsfield (0.41); but that’s cold comfort when

relegation rites get handed down.

On the flip side, Upper Beaconsfield has been mentioned as the worst team in Premier Division around the traps, and the Maroons will be out to shut down that talk over the next fortnight.

They’ve already defeated the Cobras once this season; and a second victory would be extremely satisfying.

It’s taken a long time to taste victory for Merinda Park; but there will be mixed emotions at the conclusion of round-14 after the Cobras win their first game of the season but also get relegated.

Expect their shining light in Premier Division over the last 13 years, Dan McCalman, to finish off his year with a big ton and the Cobras to win convincingly.

TIPS R14: Pakenham (4) v TOORADIN (2), KOOWEERUP (3) v Devon Meadows

MERINDA PARK

v Upper Beaconsfield

(6),

(8)

(7), CARDINIA (1) v Clyde (5).

“Hey…put those Mad-Monday celebrations on hold.” Clyde captain Trevor Bauer and his Cougars received a huge reprieve on Saturday and will look to make the most of it against Cardinia at Gunton Oval in round 14. (Stewart Chambers: 459356)

Country Week teammates Jason Williams and Ben Parrott will go head-to-head on Saturday when Pakenham welcomes Tooradin to the Pink Ladies Day match at Toomuc Reserve. (Stewart Chambers: 396630)

Meagher finds a new home

By Michael Floyd

Renowned trainer Dan Meagher has officially launched his new stables at Pakenham, marking an exciting new chapter in his career.

Following a successful tenure in Singapore, Meagher is eager to build on his achievements and make an impact on the Victorian racing scene.

The son of Australian Racing Hall Of Fame inductee and Melbourne Cup winning trainer John Meagher, Dan had forged a thriving business in one of Asian racing’s biggest jurisdictions.

After moving to the city-state in 2016, Meagher built his team from a handful of horses to one of the largest and most successful stables on the island.

His first stable star, Lim’s Lightning, was the first - and only - horse to win the country’s premier sprint (the Lion City Cup) and the country’s premier distance race (the Singapore Gold Cup), and was named Singapore Horse of the Year in 2021.

10-time Group 1 winner, Lim’s Kosciuszko, followed with back-to-back Horse of the Year titles in 2022 and 2023, before Lim’s Saltoro became just the second horse to claim the Singapore Triple Crown.

With 16 Group 1 wins and over 320 winners overall, Meagher had established himself one of Asia’s premier trainers.

However when the Singapore government announced that thoroughbred racing would end in October 2024, bringing a close to the sport’s 180year history in the country, Meagher’s world was turned upside down.

“The Singapore closure was devastating at the time,” said Meagher.

“We’d just started going up - in numbers, in winners, in Group 1 winners - then they say they’re closing; it was a shock to the system.”

With 12 months to plan his next step, Meagher ramped up his numbers to record more than 50 winners in his final season - the most of his eight years in Singapore - while simultaneously planning the next phase of his career.

A return to Queensland, where he had trained previously with his father and siblings Chris and Paul, was an option.

However a meeting with Southside Racing officials and a tour of the facilities soon had Meagher convinced that Pakenham was the right place to establish a new stable.

“I flew back (from Singapore) and looked at a few places, and it was my uncle Pat Carey who trains at Mornington who was the one who said let’s look at Pakenham.

“I was pretty sold on it straight away.

“I could see their vision, and when you see that you really get the confidence to move your life.

“We’ve got everything here at Pakenham.

“You’ve got a great swimming pool, the best I’ve seen.

“You’ve got a water walker, you’ve got a deep sand track, a normal sand track, a beautiful polytrack, inside grass gallop track, then you’ve got the wetlands track which is great for the horse’s mental state, then the rise uphill turf.

“I might have missed one - I haven’t got to them all yet - but it’s just a great facility.

“It’s a privilege to be here and I think anyone who trains here would have to agree.”

Meagher moved into his new facility in January and when complete, will operate a 40-horse barn alongside his brothers Chris and Paul under the Dan Meagher Racing Australia banner.

“We’re a really close family,” Meagher said.

“Chris is the most relaxed, best bloke ever…everything is going to be alright with Chrisy.

“He’s very good at what he does, a very good horseman, a very good trainer in his own right.

Super Saturday at Cora Lynn

By David Nagel

Lovers of winter sports will be well catered for this weekend as Cora Lynn hosts the second edition of its ‘Super Saturday’ carnival at the Cobradome.

The Cobras kicked things off last year with Carrum Patterson Lakes, Hampton Park, Pines, Eltham and Pearcedale all attempting to kick goals, while Bunyip, Neerim South and Pearcedale competed with the Cobras in round-robin fixtures on the netball court.

This time around, some familiar faces return while some new faces will make their ‘Super Saturday’ debuts.

Langwarrin under-19s will kick things off with an intra-club practice match at 10.30am, before the senior boys run out with Pines taking on Officer at 12.30pm.

The football side of things will then finish off in style, with the home-town Cobras taking on Langwarrin at 3pm.

“He just keeps everything calm.

“Paul is just work, work, work, and will do everything.

“Great with horses, a terrific horseman - and his attention to detail - he got that from daddoesn’t miss a trick.

“We work in well together.

“There are only a few people you can trust in life, and it’s your family you can trust, so when your family is with you in your business it’s a big plus.”

While Meagher was a regular competing in Singapore’s biggest races, he is cognisant of the task ahead in the most competitive racing jurisdiction in Australia.

Of his Singaporean imports, Meagher believes

Lim’s Saltoro has the best chance of succeeding in Australia.

However, his main goal for the remainder of 2025 is simple - to train as many winners as possible.

“Singapore was great, it was great living, good for my family and I learnt a lot about training and if you speak to other trainers that have trained there they’ll say the same thing - it makes you a better trainer,” he said.

“It was a great experience, but now it’s time to move on and take that success and bring it here.

“It doesn’t matter if we win races at Swan Hill or Kilmore or wherever.

“I’m very motivated to bring that success and train as many winners as I can.”

Pathways pivotal for Melbourne Storm

By Justin Schwarze

Cora Lynn, Lang Lang and Pines will hit the netball courts for round-robin games beginning at 9am.

Super Saturday begins a busy month at the Cobradome, with Cora Lynn hosting Springvale Districts on Saturday 15 March.

On Sunday 16, Langwarrin will play Chelsea, before the Cobras take on Pines on Saturday 22 March.

Practice matches at the Cobradome will then be complete when Langwarrin takes on Frankston Bombers on Sunday 23 March.

Cora Lynn president Rohan Marriott was thrilled with response to the inaugural event last year.

“We had a good crowd turn out; there were cars all the way around the ground and the netball courts as well; it was just a really good atmosphere and a great way to kick things off for the season.”

Full bar and canteen facilities will be open on the day.

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.

Dan Meagher will look to translate his huge success in Singapore into a long and fruitful career training out of his new stables in Pakenham. (Supplied: 461832)

Football action returns to Cora Lynn on March 1 for a ‘Super Saturday’ of action. (Stewart Chambers:

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