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Thursday, 10 December, 2020
Drug drivers rife By Mitchell Clarke
File image of Highway Patrol Senior Constable Jeremy White and Senior Constable Peter Forsyth. 193899
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difference between you making it on time to your destination, or never making it at all - it’s a no brainer. “People are starting to drive both distances and speeds they are not familiar with, which carries its own risk. But the thought of people then throwing in alcohol, drugs or distraction into the mix is a deadly combination.” Since 1989
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A three-weekend police operation, which ended in late November, has uncovered a staggering number of drug drivers on Cardinia Shire roads. Almost 50 drug drivers were nabbed locally by police during the 15 day Operation Compass, which aimed to influence bad driver behaviour by using an intelligence-based approach to target troublesome locations. As Victorians returned to enjoying restaurants, pubs and wineries, police were out conducting both PBTs and drug tests to get impaired drivers off the roads. Statewide, 454 people were found with drugs in their system, with 46 of those being caught in Cardinia. A further six were found in Casey. A total of 410 people were caught drink driving across the state, with seven in Cardinia and six in Casey. Speed continued to be a huge concern for Victoria Police, with over 7000 total speeding offences. More than 150 of those fines were issued in Cardinia, while 60 were snapped in Casey. Road Policing Command Assistant Commissioner Libby Murphy said it was “baffling” that people continued to speed and put themselves and others at risk. “This year has been a challenging year for all Victorians. That said, we cannot become complacent about our behaviour on the road. Every single road user has a choice to make when they start their journey,” A/C Murphy said. “Exercising a little patience could be the
Eight people were caught using their mobile phone while driving in Cardinia, and two motorists were found to not be wearing their seatbelt. A total of 14 disqualified drivers, 14 unlicensed drivers and 41 unregistered vehicles were nabbed in Cardinia, while in Casey, eight disqualified drivers, seven unlicensed driv-
Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS
ers and 27 unregistered vehicles were slapped with fines. Operation Compass ran from 12.01am on Thursday 12 November to 11.59pm on Sunday 15 November, 12.01am on Thursday 19 November to 11.59pm on Sunday 22 November and 12.01am on Thursday 26 November to 11.59pm on Sunday 29 November.
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May you all enjoy a happy, healthy and peaceful Festive Season and New Year.
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First Name ................................Surname ....................................... Address ................................................................................................ ..................................................................................Postcode ............ Telephone ..................................Email .............................................. Reply to: RCA Villages Unit 1/39-43 Duerdin Street, Notting Hill Victoria 3168 DEC, 2020. PAKENHAM NEWS 12465235-SN50-20
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Thursday, 10 December, 2020
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NEWS
Dramatic standoff on roof By Mitchell Clarke A house in Pakenham was the subject of a police operation, with one man purportedly filmed “taunting” officers from a roof. Police attended Pine Way property at about 10am on Tuesday 8 December to arrest a 31-year-old man in relation to a number of outstanding matters including theft of a trailer and possess a drug of dependence. Upon police arriving the man allegedly ran into neighbouring properties. A witness, Jimmy, said he saw officers smash through the front doors before a commotion occurred and a man appeared on the roof. “He was basically taunting the police, not so much aggressively, but he did say something like ‘come up here and get me you dogs’,” he recalled. “When told to come down he responded like he had no fear of the police and enjoyed the experience.” Another neighbour, Monty, said he could hear a man screaming. “I could hear the loud voice of the guy on the roof but couldn’t hear exactly what he said but he was very loud,” he said. Monty said police remained tight-lipped as to what was unfolding. “They just said a police operation is going on in this estate and you should not get out of your house,” he explained. Police arrested two people and seized illicit drugs, firearms, cash and allegedly stolen goods from a Pine Way property on 17 November. It’s not yet known if the two incidents are linked. Police confirmed the man was eventually arrested and was taken to hospital with minor injuries. Upon police arriving the man allegedly ran into neighbouring properties. Picture: SUPPLIED
Santa is coming to town By Jessica Anstice CFA Santa Runs have been given the green light across the Cardinia Shire. Father Christmas is set to swap his sleigh and reindeers for a fire truck as he attempts to make his way around Pakenham and Officer before Christmas. Officer Fire Brigade secretary Kayla George said the annual tradition will be different to other years, as there will be no stopping at local parks and no lollies to hand out due to Covid-safe measures. “We’re a bit disappointed that we can’t do it like we normally would but nonetheless, we still want to put smiles on children’s faces,” she said. Children and families will be able to spot Santa roaming all eight estates in Officer on Sunday 20 December, with an exact time yet
to be confirmed. Pakenham Fire Brigade will do the rounds that same weekend, with the date and time still to be decided. A CFA spokesperson said the organisation is committed to ensuring its members can resume their normal activities as quickly as possible in a safe manner, adhering to advice from the Chief Health Officer and the Department of Health and Human Services. “From Monday 23 November CFA recommenced a range of face-to-face brigade activities in regional Victoria and Metropolitan Melbourne under strict Covid-19 guidelines,” he said. “These activities include Santa runs, brigade fundraising activities, brigade meetings, community engagement and permitted award ceremonies.”
CFA Santa Runs have been given the green light across the Cardinia Shire.
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Thursday, 10 December, 2020
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NEWS
Cardy Road relief at last By Mitchell Clarke An extra right turning lane from Cardinia Road into Henry Road will be built as part of a $3.5 million plan to bust congestion and keep motorists moving through Pakenham and Officer. Roads and Road Safety Minister Ben Carroll was in Pakenham with Bass MP Jordan Crugnale and Cardinia Shire Council deputy mayor Jeff Springfield on Thursday 3 December to announce the intersection upgrade. The announcement, as part of the 2020/21 Victorian Budget, coincides with the completed Cardinia Road level crossing removal project. The new road bridge officially opened to the public on Sunday 6 December. The next stage of works slated for the road will see crews build an additional right turn lane into Henry Road, which is set to complement the removal of the Cardinia Road level crossing. Minister Carroll said the “very important” upgrade will be a “boom” for the local community. “This is a very important $3.5 million upgrade that will really see and keep locals moving through the important area of Pakenham,” he told Star News. “This safety upgrade is another very important milestone that builds on all the other works that have been occurring here. “We see over and over again, level crossing removals, combined with other important infrastructure and public transport investments, overwhelmingly get endorsed by the local community.” With Pakenham continuing to grow at lightning speed, Minister Carroll hinted at more important road projects in the area. “As someone who comes from a community that’s had a level crossing removed, and someone who caught the Frankston line down
Bass MP Jordan Crugnale, Roads Minister Ben Carroll and Cardinia Shire Council deputy mayor Jeff Springfield. 223221 here, (these projects) are game changers,” he said. “They are infrastructure that’s required, and this is what locals love to see. They are happy to put up with a bit of short term pain for long term gain, as long as they know it’s going to get them home to spend more time with their families.”
Bass MP Jordan Crugnale said the added right turn lane came at an important time with Kaduna Park and the Edenbrook Secondary College opening. “With the growth in this area, this will mean it’s only going to be easier to come off and turn into the right lane and access the shops, schools and the station,” Ms Crugnale explained.
Picture: MITCHELL CLARKE
“It’s going to provide a lot more relief.” Cardinia Shire Council deputy mayor Jeff Springfield said the council welcomed the State Government funding which “recognised the infrastructure needs of our growing community”. An official start date is yet to be announced, however it’s anticipated works will begin in early 2021.
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Thursday, 10 December, 2020
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STAR NEWS 5
NEWS
OPINION
Spreading the cheer
LENSCAPE
By Danielle Kutchel Casey families in need will be treated to a special Christmas party this weekend, thanks to the generosity of local partners and volunteers. Life Central Services has partnered with Larte Central Cafe to offer the fully catered meal and event on Sunday 13 December from 3pm, with partial funding from the City of Casey. It’s the seventh Christmas dinner put on by the partnership, and will be held at Larte Central Cafe. The event aims to spread a bit of Christmas cheer to those who could use a little extra after a particularly tough year. Entertainment will be provided by acapella trio We 3 Kings and Balla Balla Ukelele Group, and Santa will pop in for some selfies. Each family that attends will be gifted a huge hamper filled with food and gifts, delivered by Santa himself, and there will be showbags for the kids too. So far, donations have been provided by Rangebank Primary School, Cranbourne West Primary School, Westpac Bank, Amstel, Trios, Settlement Hotel, and some very generous private donors. But co-organiser and managing director of Life Central Services, Drew Gormlie, said further donations of new goods or cash would be welcome up until the event. All donations will go to those most in need. Mr Gormlie said the organisers were also seeking volunteers to help out on the day. To express an interest in volunteering, or if you know a family in need who you’d like to nominate to attend, contact the organisers on 0481 040 991.
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To parking inspectors fining people at the shopping centre who were there for longer than two hours. These are people who are spending money in our community after being in lockdown for weeks. It’s also ridiculous that the parking is two hours! I’m a hairdresser and most clients for colours are two and a half to three hours. I will lose business if clients start getting fined because they have a colour on. They shouldn’t have to move their car just because of the stupid timing of the parking!
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REAL ESTATE Email seren@starnewsgroup.com.au
Thursday, 10 December, 2020
Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS
Thumbs Up! To the amazing staff that cared for me at Casey Hospital. Thanks!
Thumbs Down! To Judges that keep letting out idiots back into society for the umpteenth time for offences and only giving bonds or community service. They re offend and it’s a bloody circle. Time to lock up or snuff out!
Thumbs Down! To all the attacks and violence on innocent people and the lack of law enforcement and punishment for the perpetrators.
Thumbs Down! To the sheer immaturity and nastiness from adults in the Facebook community groups.
Thumbs Down! To the postal delivery workers who don’t deliver even when you’re home!
SOCIALLY SPEAKING On Sunday 6 December, a story was published across Star News Facebook pages about a horrifying daylight road rage attack in Narre Warren. Six people are wanted by police. Here is how our readers reacted online: Chris Currie: Cowards. Lisa Carter: Disgusting, not even safe in your own car anymore. Linda Churchill: No gang problem in Victoria just ask Dan. Emma Kendell: And this is why I dislike driving by myself at night! Aleasha Everard: Why didn’t they lock doors? On Tuesday 8 December, a story was shared to the Star News Facebook page about a man who allegedly threatened two girls looking at Christmas lights. Here is how our readers reacted online: Donna Agius: My worst fear. Rebecca Halliwell: I watched the video, those girls were truly terrified. Kylie Smith: Hope the w****r gets charged.
NEWS
Fire danger period The Fire Danger Period for the City of Casey and Cardinia Shire will officially begin on 14 December, the CFA has declared. That period, which restricts the use of fire in the community, will be in place until 1 May 2021. During the danger period, fire restrictions come into force, and locals cannot light a fire in the open air without a permit or comply with certain requirements. Those who haven’t obtained a permit could be breaking the law and may be prosecuted. The Country Fire Authority (CFA) declares the Fire Danger Period for each municipality (shire or council) at different times in the lead up to the fire season. The decision ultimately depends on the amount of rain, grassland curing rate and other local conditions. Under the fire declaration, fire cannot be lit in the open air without a permit. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
Christmas confrontation By Jessica Anstice A man used a wooden garden stake to threaten two young women who were innocently looking at Christmas lights in Clyde North about on Sunday 6 December. Footage, shared to social media by one of the 19-year-old victims, Billie Bruce, showed the man running towards the vehicle in which the women were inside of in an attempt to harm them with his newly-found weapon. Ms Bruce and her friend were driving down Thoroughbred Drive in Clydevale Estate about 10.30pm when the man jumped in front of her vehicle and yelled. Concerned for the man’s safety, she revered her car and slightly wound down the passenger window to see if he needed any help. “From there, he continued to tell me I needed to ‘man up’ and get out of the car and fight him,” she recalled.
A man used a wooden garden stake to threaten two young women who were innocently looking at Christmas lights in Clyde North about on Sunday 6 December. “He tried opening the passenger door which thankfully my doors lock automatically.” Following the initial encounter, the pair continued to drive around the estate to look at Christmas lights.
In the video, Ms Bruce screamed “no, please no”, as the man excited his vehicle and ran towards her car. She described the man as bald with a black or dark brown beard, between 30 and 35-yearsold and wearing baggy shorts, a grey jacket or jumper and thongs at the time. “At the time of the incident I was genuinely fearing for my life, the man did not seem like he had any good intentions,” she said. “After the incident happened and I had pulled over on the main road to call the police, I was petrified as he was in his car and could easily find us. Ever since then I keep looking over my shoulder more than usual while driving, even today during the day. “I think this is going to affect me for a very, very long time, even though it is Christmas time, that doesn’t stop someone with bad intentions. I don’t think I’m going to be going out driving at night for a very, very long time.”
Before they knew it, the man had reappeared and was spotted ripping a garden stake out from the ground. He allegedly chased after Ms Bruce’s car and attempted to enter it. After taking a wrong turn in an attempt to escape the terrifying situation, Ms Bruce parked in a dead-end street. “When I went to turn around I noticed a car was right behind me. Somehow within 10 minutes he had gotten his car with his partner and tried to find us which he was successful at,” she said. “He blocked us in and got out of the car with the garden stake in hand. His partner screamed at us to ‘run away’. “I drove over the gutter as he was, by the looks of it, wanting to spear the stake through the window which his partner thankfully held him off from doing.”
School cash for inclusion By Danielle Kutchel Officer Specialist School is among those to have been granted funding in the latest round of the State Government’s Inclusive Schools Fund. The school received $199,000 to build an inclusive, wheelchair-accessible learning and sensory space. It was one of 53 projects funded in round five of the scheme, which aims to help government schools better cater for the social and educational needs of young people with a disability and additional needs. Denise Munt, principal of Officer Specialist School, said they hoped to begin construction on the space next year. The space will involve two sensory gardens: one featuring natives and natural wooden structures, and the other featuring fixed musical instruments for students to interact with. The areas will be able to be used as learning spaces as well as for social activities, to help promote learning outdoors, and have been designed in conjunction with allied health staff like occupational therapists, physiotherapists and speech pathologists, to ensure they cater for the needs of all students. Meanwhile, Eastern Victoria MP Harriet Shing said round six applications of the Inclusive Schools Fund were now open for local schools to create inclusive spaces. An additional $20 million was allocated for rounds six and seven of the Inclusive Schools Fund in the 2020/21 Victorian Budget. Applications for round six close Friday, 19 February. For more details, go to https://www. schoolbuildings.vic.gov.au/Pages/InclusiveSchools-Fund.aspx
The site of the new food precinct. 223412
Taste of USA coming to Beaconsfield By Mitchell Clarke A taste of the United States will be brought to Beaconsfield, with two American fast food chains set to be built. Mexican inspired restaurant Taco Bell, burger chain Carl’s Jr and a new KFC will be built on the vacant block of land on the corner of Whiteside Road and Princes Highway. Cardinia Shire Council confirmed the planning permit was issued on 1 May this year, in accordance with the Officer Precinct Structure Plan.
Mayor and Beacon Hills Ward councillor Brett Owen said the council couldn’t dictate what type of food outlets were approved. “A bit of variety of food options is good. Beaconsfield is well known for their food options so this may contribute to that,” he said. Beaconsfield Progress Association (BPA) president Graeme Taylor said details around the development were still relatively fresh. “We only really found out about this through Facebook. We didn’t really know anything prior to that,” he said.
Mr Taylor said the location would be convenient for people travelling from Melbourne out to Officer or Pakenham, but said it was difficult to gauge whether the development posed more positives or negatives. “Obviously we’d be happy to provide more employment in the area. It’s important, especially these days,” Mr Taylor said. “We do have a number of restaurants already in Beaconsfield, and a lot of them are struggling, so we would hope they could improve their situation ... We don’t know yet if this will have an effect.”
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COVER UP WITH CLARKS Thursday, 10 December, 2020
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STAR NEWS 7
NEWS
IBAC INQUIRY
Thanks for the coffees By Cam Lucadou-Wells Casey ex-mayor Sam Aziz has denied being paid by a Narre Warren North developer under the guise of wedding presents, a wedding cake, bunches of flowers and coffees, an IBAC inquiry has alleged. In tapped calls played at the Operation Sandon hearing on 1 December, Mr Aziz and his friend and Jim’s Group ex-CEO ‘Tino’ Grossi spoke what IBAC alleges was “code” for payments of up to $45,000 from developer Zlatimir Kostic. Mr Aziz denied at the hearing that he “extorted” Mr Kostic who sought to halve lot sizes in the Kostic Boulevard estate about the same time in 2018. The amendment led to an estimated $14 million windfall for the developer, according to Casey planners, IBAC heard. Mr Aziz said he raised the issue with council officers and then had “no more involvement”. “I don’t extort money from anyone and, no, in this instance absolutely not. “I had no financial arrangement on any level with Mr Kostic. “I don’t believe that Mr Grossi had anything to do with any of Mr Kostic’s affairs with the City of Casey.” At IBAC, Mr Aziz said Mr Grossi “always spoke in code no matter what conversation we were having”. “Sometimes we would just have banter and it would go nowhere.” On 7 October 2018, Mr Aziz tells Mr Grossi that he asked someone for their “postal address for the invitation to the wedding” but the person seemed “pissed off at taking my call”. “I don’t want any surprises come February, that’s all,” Mr Aziz says. “We’re doing everything we can from our end. In fact, more than what we can.” Mr Aziz says it’s unfair for the person to
Sam Aziz arrives alone at Tino Grossi’’s residence, 22 February 2019. accuse us of “delaying the production of the cake”. “I gave him, they gave him a full list of ingredients for this to come through.” Mr Grossi says: “At the end of the day, so long as he gives us a present for the wedding and everything. “In a couple of weeks he’s said he gonna give you the first present anyway cause he’s pretty excited about you getting married. “He’s committed to coming to the wedding or it’ll be worse for him.” At the hearing, Mr Aziz said he received a cash loan of about $25,000 from Mr Grossi to help finalise payment for his wedding reception. The loan was given at Mr Grossi’s house, not recorded, and had not yet been paid back, Mr Aziz said. It was offered “as a friend because he knew my financial circumstances were a bit tight”. “But I had no discussions whatsoever at any level with Mr Kostic about any kind of payment.”
Picture: IBAC
Mr Kostic attended Mr Aziz’s wedding with a gift of between $300 and $400, Mr Aziz told the hearing. In a series of calls with Mr Grossi, Mr Aziz discuss when he’ll receive his “wedding present”. On 19 October 2018, Mr Grossi asks if Mr Aziz wanted to come over that night to “choose your partner’s present” or at least to “have a look at half the present anyway”. At the hearing, Mr Aziz said he may have been referring to the $25,000 loan for wedding preparations. Mr Grossi may have been trying to conceal the payment from Mr Grossi’s spouse, who may not have been aware of the loan, Mr Aziz said. Three days later, Mr Aziz deposited $17,000 cash at a bank in Broadmeadows - which Mr Aziz told IBAC could have come from “other sources”. “There was cash going everywhere at the time because ... (of the) wedding.” IBAC alleged Mr Aziz deposited $20,000 at a Roxburgh Park ATM on 22 February 2019 -
three days after Casey councillors approved Mr Kostic’s proposal. The $20,000 had nothing to do with Mr Kostic or Mr Grossi, Mr Aziz said. “They could have been business income. They could have been Keno winnings again.” Mr Aziz also denied supplying Mr Kostic inside information from a meeting with Casey planning staff five days earlier. On the night of the council resolution, Mr Aziz texted “congratulations” to Mr Kostic’s hired planner Tom Radisich. Meanwhile, in a tapped phone call, Mr Aziz tells Mr Grossi he’s concerned that “our friend” may “renege”. He asks if the friend will “deliver the mail that we wanted him to deliver”. Later that evening, Mr Grossi tells Mr Aziz that ‘Zlat’ came over and “couldn’t stop thanking you for everything you’ve done for him. To help him get it through.” Next Friday, ‘Zlat’ was to come and bring Mr Grossi’s wife a “bunch of flowers just to say thank you” for “all the coffee she’s made for him”. “I guess I have to do the same because (she’s) probably made more coffees for me,” Mr Aziz replies. “Might bring you a little cake to celebrate.” In denying he received “bribe money”, Mr Aziz told IBAC that his wife joined him at the Grossi home that night and would have known about the transaction if it happened. They brought a bunch of flowers and a cake for an “occasion” that night. IBAC tabled surveillance photos of Mr Aziz arriving without his wife at the Grossi home after he received a text to “come over for a coffee at about 7.30”. “I said she may have been with me,” Mr Aziz told the inquiry. “She may not have been on that occasion, yes.”
EVERY TEST HELPS Every test helps us keep on top of this virus. So even if your symptoms are mild, or you’ve been tested before, every test helps.
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8 STAR NEWS
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Thursday, 10 December, 2020
pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
IBAC INQUIRY
O’Brien meeting on table By Cam Lucadou-Wells Developer John Woodman was among the highest donors to the Liberal Party’s corporate fundraising arm, IBAC has heard. Mr Woodman spent more than $70,000 on the top-tier membership package with the Liberal-linked Enterprise Victoria in 2019 despite keeping a low profile due to adverse “publicity” about his alleged corrupt land deals in City of Casey. In a tapped call tabled at IBAC, Enterprise Victoria executive director at the time Amy Sullivan rang him on 26 February 2019 on the eve of renewing his membership. She invites Mr Woodman and a “guest or two or five” to the ‘Chairman’s welcome’. He tells Ms Sullivan he didn’t want to be seen at the functions because “people ... want to join the dots”. Ms Sullivan asks him “would there be any value in” meeting with newly elected Opposition leader Michael O’Brien and state president Robert Clarke. Mr Woodman says he’s happy to meet with them. “I’ve got a few things that I need to talk to Michael about and I need their support at a state level and depending on how those conversations go ... “But what I don’t want to do is support them and then find that I get yelled at in Parliament.” At IBAC, Ms Sullivan said she couldn’t recall the conversation but “I can absolutely with clarity guarantee that a meeting never took place”. When asked if it was an example of “privileged access”, Ms Sullivan said it was to “see if there were any learnings from Mr Woodman” about the 2018 state election and leading onto the upcoming 2019 federal election. IBAC Commissioner Robert Redlich said:
Amy Sullivan offered developer John Woodman a meeting with state Liberal leaders in February 2019, IBAC heard. “Can we not put to rest once and for all the notion that people don’t make substantial donations in the expectation that they will get support in return from the party or from ministers when there’s a need?” “I think this particular example does,” Ms Sullivan said. “I don’t think it’s a common practice.” In the tapped call, Ms Sullivan tells Mr Woodman of a “little loophole ... totally above board” to avoid stricter state donor laws as of late 2018. She says Enterprise Victoria’s funds were “by default” going to the “federal campaign fund”. At the inquiry, Ms Sullivan explained EV restructured so it only had to disclose donors
exceeding the AEC’s $14,300 threshold, rather than a $1000 threshold in Victoria, Ms Sullivan said. Ms Sullivan said it was a matter for the Liberals’ state finance director how it could possibly fund a state election campaign. In March 2019, Mr Woodman initially paid $50,000 to Enterprise Victoria - in five lots of $10,000 from five of his different business entities - provided by his lobbyist Lorraine Wreford. He was entitled to Enterprise’s top tier Leadership package, and added two further $10,000 payments in September. It was “unusual, not unheard of” for donors to exceed the maximum package charge of $60,000. It was “not uncommon” for donors to “invoice split” between difference entities,
the inquiry heard. “So if $50,000 was split across five invoices, each individual invoice would be less than the disclosure amount.” Mr Woodman is recorded telling Ms Sullivan that he indicated support for former Prime Minister Tony Abbott’s 2019 federal election campaign. But he told Mr Abbott “their Federal display on asylum seekers is absolutely pathetic and that they’re going to get slaughtered in the election”. “But even disregarding all that I said: ‘Look I’m still prepared to support you because I like you as a guy’. “I mean it’s all very well to pour money into these people but they’re doing dumb things.”
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Thursday, 10 December, 2020
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STAR NEWS 9
NEWS
IBAC INQUIRY
SCWRAG ‘passive’
IBAC holds public Q&A
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS
A SCWRAG gathering in 2015. 146818
Planning Minister chief of staff Peter Keogh said SCWRAG was “pretty passive”.
Pauline Richards says she had early doubts about the developer-sponsored residents group SCWRAG
the minister’s office, but, you know, we get ... thousands of calls in a couple of days.” IBAC has alleged that SCWRAG was funded $193,000 by Mr Woodman’s company Watsons and his consultant Megan Schutz’s firm Schutz Consulting. Ms Schutz helped set up SCWRAG. She was financed to do so by another de-
veloper Leighton Properties, which owned the land and would gain a windfall from the rezoning. Mr Woodman was offered a $2 million success fee. Ms Schutz told IBAC “we were using the community as a basis for my client’s commercial interests”.
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A lifesaving Pakenham-based venture, spear-
health care system for the entire community. According to government figures, 45 per cent of metropolitan emergency department
We just keep getting MEGA.
health care system for the entire community. According to government figures, 45 per cent of metropolitan emergency department presentations are non-urgent. Tiny Hearts has also compiled statistics from participants, illustrating the importance of teaching the critical first aid skills. After the course, 98 per cent of parents said they felt more confident to act effectively in an emergency. Almost 50 per cent reported that they had used their acquired infant and child first aid knowledge within six months of undertaking the course. Narre Warren's Shelby Cooke, who performed CPR on her choking two-year-old daughter while paramedics rushed to their home, stressed the importance of first aid training. She believes that had she not received the course through her workplace, her daughter may have suffocated. "I still owe everything to having those skills," she said. "The more people that are equipped with them, the less tragedies we're going to see with children, babies and toddlers. "It's such a frightening thing to go through - so you need to be prepared." The free sessions will be held across the region, including at Beaconhills College, in Pakenham. Topics covered will include choking, fevers, convulsions, burns, drowning, bleeding, caring for an unconscious person, bites and stings and head injuries. Parents or caregivers interested in undertaking the free training can sign up by heading to: www.tinyheartsfirstaid.com/fundedcourse.
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A lifesaving Pakenham-based venture, spearheaded by a paramedic and a teacher, has received a federal cash injection to provide free first aid training throughout Melbourne's south-east. Tiny Hearts - founded by sisters Rachael Waia and Nikki Jurcutz - will arm 1800 local parents and carers with the skillsets required to save their children in the event of an emergency. In a regional first, 300 parents are also set to be trained bilingually, catering for Chinese and Afghan communities. Their journey began in a garage, but Tiny Hearts now has a headquarters in Pakenham's Industrial Park - proving that business success is attainable under the most challenging circumstances. Ms Waia, a former educator and volunteer first responder, was first aid trained when she was just 15 years old. She is determined to share her vital knowledge with as many parents as possible. "I've got two kids of my own and I know what it's like when they choke and when they're really sick," she said. "Because we've got such a good report built with our parents, we get a lot of feedback where they say, hey, you literally saved our babies' lives. "I love what I do - waking up and making a difference." Tiny Hearts worked in conjunction with the South East Melbourne Primary Health Network to secure the federal grant. The organisation also hopes to reduce the number of inappropriate admissions to the emergency department and create a better
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Thursday, 10 December, 2020
201902221552-AM10-19
Hearts to help
By Rowan Forster
IBAC is inviting questions from the public as part of its Operation Sandon inquiry into alleged corrupt property deals at Casey Council. The public can pose questions to expert witnesses as part of a discussion on preventing corruption in the planning process at state and government. The experts will consider issues such as campaign donations, conflicts of interest, council governance, lobbyists and ministerial advisors. IBAC Commissioner Robert Redlich said “decisions made at local government level, in particular planning and property development decisions, have considerable impact on the community”. “That is why we want stakeholders to have an opportunity to participate in improving the transparency and integrity in Victoria’s planning system and other areas of decision making at local and state government levels.” The expert witnesses are academics Dr Cameron Murray, Dr Yee-Fui Ng, Dr Stephen Rowley, Prof Roberta Ryan and former council chief executive Philip Shanahan. Their evidence will be heard on Monday 14 December and Tuesday 15 December. The evidence will inform IBAC’s findings and recommendations to be tabled in a special report to Parliament in 2021. Questions can be submitted at ibac. vic.gov.au or on the sli.do website using #Sandon. Submissions close at midnight Sunday 13 December.
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Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards says she had early doubts about the bona fides of a community action group secretly sponsored by developer John Woodman. On a two-day door knock before the 2018 state election, Ms Richards found little support among voters for Save Cranbourne West Residents Action Group’s (SCWRAG) demands to rezone an adjoining industrial zone. “It wasn’t raised with me even once,” Ms Richards told IBAC on 30 November. “I began to doubt his intentions and whether this particular group was what it purported to be.” She said the group’s other quest to upgrade Hall Road had more popular support as a road-safety issue. Ms Richards said the group leader Ray Walker didn’t show SCWRAG to be a “broadly altruistic group of people” with “common interests” such as the environment or community-building. Her predecessor Jude Perera had earlier told the inquiry he and Planning Minister Richard Wynne had doubts about SCWRAG due its “big posters” in 2015. He still submitted SCWRAG’s purported petitions and documents to Mr Wynne and Casey Council, despite the suspicions. Ms Richards told IBAC that Mr Perera had not shared his suspicions with her. “It was something that perhaps became apparent to me and was then crystal clear after the article in The Age at the end of 2018.” Mr Wynne’s chief of staff Peter Keogh told IBAC on 2 December that SCWRAG seemed a “pretty passive community group” without much “colour and movement”. “For all the signatures or whatever, the only thing they ever did was write letters. “I don’t want to encourage people to ring
This committee will represent the needs and ideas of our communities and work in partnership with Council and the many service organisations supporting community recovery. To apply, visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/recoverycommittee and complete the Expression of interest form by 14 December 2020.
Call Council on 1300 787 624 for more information or assistance completing the form. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
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Shire update Christmas in Cardinia Our 12 Days of Christmas Online Program kicks off this week and features 12 days of festive activities and performances. For a full program and more info, visit our website. A range of community Christmas events are also happening, including the following events supported through our Festivals and Events Grants program:
Emerald Carols by the Couch live stream
Carols by the Creek
Friday 11 December 7–8pm
Sunday 20 December 7.30–9pm
Enjoy an evening of festive fun, entertainment and joyous carol singing with the Cardinia Civic Band, local artists and the big man himself – Santa! More info: www.emeraldcarols.com
Get ready for a night of carolling, community connection, virtual kids’ activities, and a message of hope. More info: www.facebook.com/carolsbythecreek
More info: www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/christmasincardinia
Tell us how you Imagine Cardinia! Share your thoughts and ideas to help us develop the Community Vision, Council Plan, Financial Plan and Council Budget. Have your say online: www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/imaginecardinia Join an online info session: Wednesday 16 December 7.30pm Round 1 feedback closes 5pm 23 December 2020. Register your interest for the People’s Panel Our next step will be to use the feedback collected and work with members of our community to help refine our understanding of the community’s values and needs. To do this, we are creating a People’s Panel. If you’re interested in participating, complete the expression of interest form online at www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/imaginecardinia or phone Capire Consultant Group on 9021 0627 if you have any questions.
Cockatoo Neighbourhood Safer Place has moved Cockatoo’s Neighbourhood Safer Place – Bushfire Place of Last Resort (NSP-BPLR) has moved to Cockatoo Community Complex in response to community feedback that a more central location was preferred. Council’s Emergency Management Team works closely with local fire brigades and the Municipal Fire Management Planning Committee to review the shire’s NSP-BPLRs every year. More info: www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/nsp
COVID-19 update Community Recovery Committee Expressions of interest are being sought from passionate community members to join a community-led COVID-19 Pandemic Community Recovery Committee. The committee will represent the needs and ideas of each of our nine wards and will work in partnership with Council and the many organisations supporting community recovery. To apply, please complete and return the expression of interest form by 14 December 2020. www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/recoverycommittee
We’re here to help!
COVID-19 online help hub
Our Customer Service team is available by phone or email and you can access a range of online services via our website.
For information and advice on a range of topics, or for help to find the right support or information, phone 1300 787 624 or visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/coronavirus
Council services
Translated resources
For updates to Council services, visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/serviceupdates
Cardinia Shire Council: www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/translate Victorian Government: www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/ translated-information-about-coronavirus-covid-19
The information on this page was correct at the time of print, but for the most up-to-date information:
Cardinia Shire Council Phone: 1300 787 624
pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
Web: www.cardinia.vic.gov.au
Email: mail@cardinia.vic.gov.au
Thursday, 10 December, 2020
|
STAR NEWS 11
NEWS
An extra 90 weekly services will be added to the Pakenham and Cranbourne lines from next year. 223038
Bass MP Jordan Crugnale at Pakenham station.
Train strain solution By Mitchell Clarke An extra 90 weekly train services will be added to the Pakenham and Cranbourne lines in the biggest timetable change in a decade, but commuters will notice some changes during their journey. Public Transport Minister Ben Carroll revealed an extra 280 new metropolitan train services and 170 regional services would be added to the network each from 31 January 2021. “We know Covid normal will see people
travelling differently than in the past,” Mr Carroll said. The extra services aim to reduce crowding, as people return to public transport following the coronavirus pandemic. In a bid to encourage metropolitan passengers to travel outside the usual peaks, Myki money will be discounted by 30 per cent for three months, for anyone who travels between 9.30am and 4pm or after 7pm on weekdays, from 31 January 2021. An added 15 new services will be added to the Pakenham and Cranbourne lines during
the busiest times of the morning and afternoon - on top of the 10 peak services added in July. The changes will also mean Pakenham and Cranbourne services will run one way through the City Loop all day in an anti-clockwise direction - from Parliament to Flinders Street. This change will facilitate the roll out of the “bigger and better” modern trains. Bass MP Jordan Crugnale said the shake-up was designed to put passengers first by delivering more services than ever before. “These two train lines are the busiest in the Metro network and they will just keep improv12474065-FA50-20
50 CD's TO BE WON
ing, thanks to our massive investments in 65 new trains for the line, 22 level crossing removals and a second track underway to deliver trains every 10 minutes on the Cranbourne line,” she said. Ms Crugnale added the changes would also benefit those living in the wider Gippsland region, who park and ride at these stations. Minister Carroll said the changes were “just the first step” in massive improvements to the network. The new timetables will be available at ptv. vic.gov.au from 8 January 2021.
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Thursday, 10 December, 2020
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STAR NEWS 13
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14 STAR NEWS
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Thursday, 10 December, 2020
pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
SUPPORT LOCAL THIS CHRISTMAS
Christmas brings cheer
Business partner going for growth
· · ·
For every order Dollar Curtains and Blinds receives in December they will be planting a tree in Australia to recover our forests affected by the bushfires in 2019/2020. The highly documented bushfire crisis in Australia has been one of the worst in the country’s history. The land, wildlife, people and businesses affected from this disaster has been unfathomable with nearly 6 million hectares (15 million acres) of bush devastated and over 480 million animals killed across the country, as of January 2020.
“We’re excited for the opportunity to work with Dollar Curtains and Blinds on such an impactful project,” said One Tree Planted founder and Chief Environmental Evangelist, Matt Hill. “We admire the company’s commitment to planting a tree for every order sold in December 2020. It’s a prime example of how many brands can make positive change for our planet.”
Wishing everyone a
We are more grateful and less lonely, despite Covid, according to survey
“About Children, Being Children”
A new Red Cross survey released this month reveals that four in five (78 percent) of Australians feel a greater degree of social connection this festive season than last, despite the disruption caused by Covid-19. The survey, of over 1,000 people from across Australia, was released on Monday 7 December. It also found more people are feeling more grateful and making extra efforts to connect. However, it also shows almost one in four people (22 percent) are worried they will feel lonely during the festive season. Penny Harrison, Red Cross director of volunteering, says the results overall show
remarkable levels of resilience. “It’s clear that Australians have turned to their communities, keeping connections going and making new ones. Many people are clearly showing strong signs of resilience,” she said. “More Australians have plans for Christmas Day this year than last year. However, the elderly and unemployed are still falling behind. “The pandemic has absolutely tested us. And it’s shown that acts of kindness matter, it’s the social glue that keeps us together,” she said. Previous research has found that loneliness is twice as likely to cause an early death
Merry Christmas and
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as obesity, and that isolation has the same impact on health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. An estimated 1.2 million Australians still experience deep social exclusion. As the country faces another disaster season, economic challenges and the ongoing effort to keep Covid-19 under control, Red Cross has launced its Power of Kindness campaign calling on Australians to make kind gestures, or make a donation at redcross.org.au or on the phone at 1800 RED CROSS.
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This festive season Pakenham Central Marketplace are adding a new dimension to Christmas celebrations with a Covid-Safe experience to bring families and friends back together exploring their local communities. Simply scan the QR code at the activation area to photograph or record your family with our augmented reality Santa, toy parade or you can choose the present storm theme! After you’ve captured your video you can then send straight onto your social media accounts. Steps are shown at the activation space which will be in centre until Christmas Eve, located opposite Ozmosis. We will be amplifying this experience with a brand ambassador to assist shoppers with taking photos over 12, 13, 19 and 20 December from 12-3pm. This year Pakenham Central Marketplace is supporting The Smith Family’s Toy and Book Appeal in a different way. Unfortunately Due to Covid-19, the toy and book drive has been put on hold here in Victoria. However the centre will be supporting The Smith Family on the Pakenham Central Marketplace Facebook page via click through links if customers would like to donate. It’s a great opportunity to help bring a smile to a disadvantaged face this Christmas.
5943 2371
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Dollar Curtains and Blinds, a leading window coverings company, recently announced a partnership with One Tree Planted an organization that aims to plant 50,000 trees for landscape restoration in 2020. For every order received in December, Dollar Curtains and Blinds will plant a tree on their customer’s behalf as part of One Tree Planted’s reforestation project within Australia. “Working with One Tree Planted is a great fit for Dollar Curtains and Blinds,” said Dollar Curtains and Blinds Marketing Manager, Danielle Crosby. “We are always looking for ways to reduce our environmental footprint and give back and what better way than giving Australia more trees?”. The donations will help to plant thousands of trees across Australia to recover forests affected by the 2019-20 Black Summer Bushfires and restore native habitat vital for wildlife, including in areas requiring rehabilitation or ecological diversity to provide homes for animals. The objectives of this new partnership include: Supporting reforestation efforts in Australia Empowering consumers with sustainable actions Raising awareness about the importance of ecosystem restoration Reforestation in Australia With over 123 million hectares of native forests, Australia has the seventh largest forest area in the world, making up three per cent of the Earth’s forests.
SCAN ME
For all enquiries please phone 5922 2040 or email info@fel.vic.edu.au 12474935-LN50-20
pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
Thursday, 10 December, 2020
|
STAR NEWS 15
SUPPORT LOCAL THIS CHRISTMAS
Wrapped with love Christmas shopping is all wrapped up for another year, the tree is up, all that is left to do is wrap the presents. But wrapping doesn’t have to mean buying the most expensive wrapping paper you can, or the cheapest and in these days when we are all looking to save money and the environment, wrapping presents creatively might just be the way to go. Wrapping a kitchen-themed gift for the cook in family could be as easy as buying a nice new tea towel and ribbon or even an apron. A cook book from their favourite chef wrapped in a tea towel or apron - tied up with ribbon gives you two gifts in one. A piece of gingham from the craft shop is also an alternative to wrapping paper - particularly for the crafty member of the family who could repurpose it as a tablecloth. For the music lover in the house why not try photocopying or buying old sheet music photocopying allows for the music to be used again and again and to be blown up if needed. This could be the perfect wrapping paper for a CD, music gift card or DVD. Carol music could also be used - trimmed with ribbons or bells. For the fashion lover, a shirt and brooch from the local op-shop could be repurposed to wrap and decorate a more expensive gift of clothing, fashion books, perfume or make up. And with colouring in books all the rage, why not use completed pages to wrap smaller item. Pretty pillow slips and old pieces of left over lace or buttons could also make suitable wrapping paper alternatives as could cheap calico bags - decorated anyway you like and then reused for the shopping after Christmas. Brown paper is another alternative - those with young children could make good oldfashion potato stamps (cutting out a star or a Christmas tree from a potato) and have a day
Use your creative skills for your Christmas decorations as well. 162413 of letting the children stamp their own wrapping paper for teachers or friends. Henna stamps and other more professional stamps can also be picked up from craft stores. Old maps from a favourite holiday, that are
cluttering up drawers would also make unusual wrapping paper, particularly for those members of the family who love to travel. Decorations for your nicely wrapped presents could be anything from shells and raffia,
to bells, buttons, ribbons, pine cones and foliage. Making store-bought gifts look beautiful and original under the tree doesn’t have to cost the earth.
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SUPPORT LOCAL THIS CHRISTMAS
Early learning is ‘about children being children’
Environments are smixed with natural materials to offer children exciting and inspiring play spaces. First Early Learning operates four centres across Melbourne and all services are carefully designed and created to provide high quality education for children aged six weeks to five years. First understands that the first five years of every child’s development and learning is of the utmost importance. First provide enthusiastic, qualified, experienced and loving educators together with Bachelor qualified kindergarten teachers that deliver the steps needed for quality educational curriculums to build and prepare your child for the next stages in their lives. At First, staff lay the stepping stones to nurture, build and develop secure and trusting relationships with little learners and families. Every change, growth and milestone is celebrated and encouraged. The environments are safe and stimulating, mixed with natural materials to offer the children exciting play spaces where they can build their creative thoughts and imaginations. No matter what age and ability your child is when they take their first steps into the First
classrooms, First ensures that every child and family will feel welcome and happy in their home away from home environment. First’s educators understand each child as an individual with a range of needs, wants, interests, abilities and languages. First will provide, encourage and further develop your child’s interests, ideas, theories, needs, sense of self and engage with your child in helping them to become the best they can be. They offer swimming lessons, bush kinder, library visits, yoga, music, science, cooking, intergenerational visits with our older friends and much more. First is excited to introduce the newest centre in Pakenham and look forward to meeting you all! Email: info@fel.vic.edu.au or call Pakenham on 5922 2040 First Early Learning operates centres in Pakenham, Frankston South, Endeavour Hills and Hastings.
The Trading Stables have a great range of Christmas gift ideas ideal for the horse enthusiast.
Gift ideas Check out the Christmas Market this Saturday at The Trading Stables and Saddlery from 9am4pm. The Trading Stables caters for all disciplines like stock, western, English, pony club and racing. We have a great range of Christmas gift ideas including kitchenware, home decor, lamps, clocks and more. Dress yourself up in an Akubra hat, jeans, belts, handbags and jewellery. Grab a bargain with up to 50% off selected clothing, boots sad-
dles rugs and more. The Trading Stables have been operating for over 20 years with great service, great products and even better prices. The Trading Stables have a range of second hand goods and saddles. We buy swap and sell, trade in your old gear for new. Open seven days a week for all your equestrian needs and gift vouchers are available. Corner Princes Highway and Tivendale Road, Officer. Telephone 5943 2444.
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Thursday, 10 December, 2020
|
STAR NEWS 17
SUPPORT LOCAL THIS CHRISTMAS
Nurturing children By Tamika Hicks, manager, Cardinia Lakes Early Learning Centre
Developing brain connections through everyday experiences.
14 December 15 December 16 December 17 December 18 December 19 December 20 December 21 December 22 December 23 December 24 December 25 December 26 December 27 December 28 December 29 December 30 December 31 December 1 January 2 January 3 January
9:00 am – 6:00 pm 9:00 am – 6:00 pm 9:00 am – 6:00 pm 9:00 am – 9:00 pm 9:00 am – 9:00 pm 9:00 am – 7:00 pm 9:00 am – 7:00 pm 9:00 am – 7:00 pm 9:00 am – 7:00 pm 9:00 am – 7:00 pm 8:00 am – 7:00 pm CLOSED 8:00 am – 6:00 pm 10:00 am – 5:00 pm 10:00 am – 5:00 pm 9:00 am – 5:30 pm 9:00 am – 5:30 pm 9:00 am – 5:30 pm 10:00 am – 5:00 pm 9:00 am – 5:00 pm 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
At Cardinia Lakes Early Learning Centre our team knows that quality is vital when it comes to your child’s development. From birth to age five, a child’s brain develops more than at any other time in life. Ninety percent of a child’s brain is built by the time they finish Kindergarten! Early brain development has a lasting impact on a child’s ability to learn and succeed in school and life. The quality of a child’s experiences in the first few years of life helps shape how their brain develops. At Cardinia Lakes ELC all of our class teachers have Bachelor Degrees in Early Childhood Education or a Diploma in Early Childhood Education. We want to make sure that quality programs and individual goals are created in order to get the best outcomes for each individual child that is in our care. Our programs give children the best opportunity for their brain to develop the connections they need to be healthy, capable, successful adults. The connections needed for many important, higher-level abilities like motivation, self-regulation, problem solving and communication are formed in these early years.
Whilst you may see children playing with blocks, we see children problem solving, estimating, working collectively. Starting from birth, children develop brain connections through their everyday experiences. They’re built through positive interactions with adults and by using their senses to interact with the world. Children’s daily experiences determine which brain connections develop and which will last for a lifetime. The amount and quality of care, stimulation and interaction they receive in their early years makes all the difference. Children who experience more positive interactions in their early years go on to be healthier and more successful in school and in life. At Cardinia Lakes ELC a quality early years education, through carefully planned and programmed interactions, partnerships with families and the community, ensures the best outcomes for children. Quality matters. We have limited vacancies left for 2021, call us on 9066 1144 or visit our website to book a tour today: www.cardinialakeselc.com.au
CAPTURE CHRISTMAS CHEER WITH OUR MAGICAL AUGMENTED REALITY EXPERIENCE! Date: 4th–24th December
This festive season Pakenham Central Marketplace are adding a new dimension to Christmas celebrations with a Covid-Safe experience to bring families and friends back together. Use your phone to photograph or record your family with our augmented reality Santa, then send straight onto your social media accounts! Steps are shown at the activation space, located opposite Ozmosis. We will be amplifying this experience with a brand ambassador to assist shoppers with taking photos over the 12th,13th, 19th and 20th December from 12-3pm.
12474701-SG50-20
18 STAR NEWS
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Thursday, 10 December, 2020
pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
With coronavirus restrictions easing and Cardinia Shire businesses and community members starting to get back on their feet, the council is seeking people to join the Covid-19 Community Recovery Committee. 138931
Get involved By Jessica Anstice With coronavirus restrictions easing and Cardinia Shire businesses and community members starting to get back on their feet, the council is seeking people to join the Covid-19 Community Recovery Committee. The pandemic’s impact has been felt across the municipality, with more people experiencing increased mental health and social isolation issues, higher unemployment and job and financial insecurity. Covid-19 Community Recovery Committee will support community wellbeing during the recovery period as well as advocate and advise the council and State Government on community needs and priorities. Residents who are interested in becoming a committee member are invited to register their interested by 5pm on Monday 14 December. A panel made up of community volunteers and council staff will select committee members after assessing expressions of interest. Cardinia Shire mayor Brett Owen said that while government and other organisations play an important role, pandemic recovery is most effective in the long term if led by the community. “We know the community has been hit hard
by Covid-19 and 2020 has been a challenging year for everyone,” he said. “2021 will be the year to rediscover, reconnect, reset and rebuild Cardinia so we can all continue to thrive as a community. “Recovery is best led by the community from the ground up. Community members know what the community needs.” As the state heads towards ‘Covid-normal’, Cr Owen said community voices and contributions are key to a successful recovery for the Cardinia Shire. “We certainly want to start 2021 on a positive note and that’s why we want to hear directly from passionate community members now,” he added. “We’re calling on people from all backgrounds from our nine new wards with relevant skills and experience to apply so the community recovery committee represents a range of ideas and experience.” All applicants will be contacted by Thursday 24 December. Visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/recoverycommittee to complete and return the Expression of Interest form by 5pm on 14 December. Call the council on 1300 787 624 for more information or assistance completing the form.
For any queries contact 0410 422 541
HELLENIC SNACKPACKS Seasoned chicken or lamb gyro, slow cooked & served on a bed of seasoned fries, finished with our homemade garlic sauce. Let Yanni know if you’d like to add chili or bbq sauce.
CHICKEN Reg $25 or large (for 2) $38
LAMB SHOULDER Reg $27 or large (for 2) $40
MIXED Reg $25 or large (for 2) $38
THE VEGETARIAN 6 Delicious falafel served with yanni’s hand cut fried lemon and herb potatoes,greek salad, eggplant dip and pita bread
Head online for festivities
KITCHEN A selection of Yanni’s fancy meals
The traditional Christmas carols in Cardinia will look a little different this year, with the council announcing all festive events will be held online. Despite life beginning to return to a ‘Covid normal’, the joy of Christmas will need to be felt from the couch this year. Instead of an in-person event, the Emerald Carols by the Couch will be livestreamed from 7pm-8pm on Friday 11 December. A week later, on Sunday 20 December, the Carols by the Creek virtual event will run from 7.30pm-9pm, providing a night of carolling and community connection. But the council has vowed to not lose the
festive feeling, launching 12 days of Christmas celebrations from Monday 7 December. The ‘Christmas in Cardinia’ celebrations will see a different event held online in the lead up to the big day. The events will be posted as a video on Cardinia Shire Council’s Facebook page, where it can be viewed and re-watched at any time. Events include gingerbread house workshops, Christmas sing-alongs, Friday night sounds and an evening with local young musicians. More information: www.cardinia.vic. gov.au/christmasincardinia.
YANNI’S MEATBALLS Yanni loves his balls! Beef Meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce served with our famous lemon & herb fried Potatoes and a greek salad $25.
OPEN SOUVLAKI (CHICKEN, LAMB SHOULDER OR MIXED) Slow cooked & seasoned meat served with a side of greek salad, Pita bread, garlic sauce and fries. $25
TRAY OF SEASONED CHICKEN GYRO A tray of our Deliciously cut & Seasoned gyro meat Cooked to perfection. Reg $18 lrg $30
GREEK SALAD Fresh lettuce, tomato, Cucumber, onions, olives And feta; finished with our Homemade greek dressing $19.
CHICKEN SHASHLIK Marinated grilled chicken Skewers drizzled with tangy Bbq sauce, side salad and Yanni’s hand cut lemon and Herb fried potatoes. $25
TRAY OF SEASONED LAMB SHOULDER GYRO A tray of our deliciously Cut & seasoned lamb Shoulder gyro meat cooked to perfection. Reg $20 lrg $32
SIDES Yanni highly recommends, the perfect pairings for a Mediteraenean Feast
YANNI’S HAND CUT FRIED POTATOES Lemon & herb, sweet paprika salted or chilli zest salted $12
TIA’S TZATZIKI OR Melitzanosalata dip (Eggplant) Aunties secret recipe $8
FRESH PITA BREAD Only the best $4
YIA YIA’S DOLMADES (6PCS) Rolled grape leaves stuffed with our herb-y rice mix drizzled in olive oil & lemon juice $10
SEASONED CHIPS Mixed herbs seasoned hot chips $12
EXTRAS Cardinia Shire Council deputy mayor Jeff Springfield and mayor Brett Owen in the gardens of the Cardinia Cultural Centre. Picture: CARDINIA SHIRE COUNCIL
Tangy bbq sauce, matinia’s chili sauce or house made garlic sauce 12457581-SN33-20
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STAR NEWS 19
NEWS Berwick-Pakenham
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Allison from Pakenham makes a purchase (pictured with Max Godber). 223120
Sowing seed By Danielle Kutchel
The need for trusted local news and information is now more vital than ever. Keep up to date with all the local news and information from across the region. Our readers love the printed edition of the Gazette, so get it home delivered NOW!
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House fire scare for Audrey
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CHAMBERS
Not even a grand final in isolation could dampen the of the local Yellow spirits and Black army. Self-confessed Tiger tragic Brendan any normal year Short, who in would be cheering on his boys at the watched the game G, from could be better described his Pakenham garage - which as a Richmond refuge. “You can’t head down to Punt Road, that much, I just so I didn’t really had a couple of beers after the game,” do laughed. he “I have re-watche d the game a couple and I tuned in to the club Brownlow of times though, which was good.” on Monday night Inspired by his late mother Kath, who ger, Brendan had was a devoted Tino choice but to follow her lead. Like many long suffering supporters, 32 year member, is still pinching himself Mr Short, who is a success. at the club’s recent “I’ve seen some bad, bad times, so I never to see a time like thought I’d get this,” he explained . “When I could afford to buy a members go every week but hip, I used to we watched Gary Ablett were hopeless, so I just sat there and Snr kick 10. Now, he’s just making the most of the good “Richmond supporter times. s have copped years, so I’m just heaps over the enjoying it while it lasts,” he said. For our full Grand Final coverage, turn to pages 18-19.
Getting rid of ri
By Mitchell Clarke
shire from strict Relief is finally metropolitan restriction in sight for fed s has up Cardinia been welcomed by former Shire rural residents, mayor Jeff Spring- somewhere and they’ve chosen who have for months field. to use local government boundari been pleading with es, but I’ve always the State Governm “I think it’s well advocating for be reclassified as been ent to overdue, it’s great further considera regional. those communities news tion around but I think it’s a shame for the unique mix of metropol The ‘ring of steel’ further considera itan and regional separating metropol that in our shire,” he tion wasn’t given Melbourne and said. itan said. earlier,” he regional Victoria “I would hope this is set to be scrapped for good comes into conversat from Mr Springfield, if we come under ion who was elected provided case numbers Sunday 8 November, attack from a third to repre- wave.” continue on a down- sent the largely rural Ranges or fourth wards trend. Ward for the next term, said he didn’t From believe 11:59pm the metropolitan The announcement on classification of struggling hospitalit Tuesday 27 October, the to finally “unlock” many towns was appropriate. the “I do understand were given the green y and retail industries they need to draw light to reopen again. the line But Premier Daniel Andrews’ decision to
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keep the boundary in place until Novembe was simply to “see r how this first stage goes”. “We think the virus bourne and regional picture between MelVictoria will be closely aligned by that time,“ he said. “I know personall y - deeply - just how this will mean for much thousands of Victorian haven’t been able s who to see loved ones for far too long. It will mean families are whole again. Our state is whole again.” Continued page
from
The final market for 2020 will be held on Friday 18 December. In 2021, markets will resume on a monthly basis starting on the 3rd Friday of the month, from February onwards. Online sales will also be possible in the new year. Seedlings are also grown to order at wholesale prices for schools and farms. Please send Max an email at Max@Livinglearning.org.au for more information.
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Green thumbs looking to expand their collection of flora have a new local option with the opening of Future Seeds Nursery. Future Seeds Nursery is a Pakenham-based micro-nursery growing vegetable, herb and fruit seedlings for local farms, schools, community groups and home gardeners. The initiative began in June 2020 thanks to funding received from Ripe for Change, a community grants program delivered by Sustainable Table to help meet the rising demand for quality, organically-grown and culturally-appropriate seedling stock in the south-eastern suburbs of Melbourne. The micro-nursery uses organic practices to grow the seedling stock and offers a broad range of crops. While not certified organic, only materials which are approved for certified organic production are used. Seedlings are available for purchase by home gardeners at the Twilight Seedling and Produce Market each Friday at the Pakenham Community Garden (next to Living and Learning Pakenham) from 4pm-7pm.
03 9768 9164 JasonWood.Updat es Authorised by J.Wood, Liberal Party of Australia, 3/16 Langmore Ln, Berwick VIC 3806.
Simply call 03 9792 2557 Mon to Fri 8.30am - 1pm or email admin@sedist.com.au to order your home delivery! Check us out online at pakenham.starcommunity.com.au *Most local areas covered
Scouts score funding By Jessica Anstice Two Cardinia Shire Scout groups will significantly benefit from Federal Government funding through its $5.5 million four-year investment into Scouts’ infrastructure. Pakenham Lakeside Scout Group is set to receive $600,000 to build its hall on the grounds of Pakenham Lakeside Primary School, while 1st Kooweerup Scout Group will take home $150,000 to upgrade its hall at 1 Mickle Street. Member for Bass Jordan Crugnale was thrilled to make the announcement as it will have a positive impact on Cardinia Shire’s youth. “Scout Halls are the beating heart of local communities and I have no doubt that Pakenham and Kooweerup Scouts and locals will get so much out of this new building and upgrade,” she said. “Whether it be for a Scouts meet up or dance class, Pakenham Lakeside and Kooweerup Scout Halls will be home to people across our community.” Scouts and community groups across the state can look forward to new and improved Scout halls as they begin to safely return to face to face activities. This announcement builds upon the 11 Scout hall capital projects already announced as part of the government’s 2018 election commitment to build and refur-
Member for Bass Jordan Crugnale was thrilled to make the announcement as it will have a positive impact on Cardinia Shire’s youth. bish Scout halls across the state. Local Scout groups will match funding for each project working with Scouts Victoria and community partners, bringing the total investment to $11 million. “We are proud to partner with Scouts Victoria to deliver upgrades that will give our Scouts and local community groups the modern facilities they deserve,” Youth Minister Ros Spence said. “This investment will help grow our Scouts network - empowering thousands of Scouts volunteers who give so much to their local communities.”
12468562-JW45-20
20 STAR NEWS
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Thursday, 10 December, 2020
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FOCUS ON … REAL ESTATE
HILLVIEW- COUNTRY LIVING THIS valuable estate has been owned by one family since the 1930’s and offers prime location and versatility all in one. The property is approximately 96 acres plus 3.6 acres of unmade road reserve, sealed road frontage, and town water. The tree lined entrance leads to 2 homes, and extensive shedding. The land is divided into approximately 12 paddocks, with a central laneway, well fenced and water to every paddock, trees for shade
and shelter and views to the Baw Baws and township of Drouin. Approximately 90 acres is currently under lease to the neighbouring dairy farmer, and there are 2 homes. Home One is a character 4 bedroom, weatherboard, with modern kitchen, 900mm stove, reverse cycle air-conditioner, solid fuel heating, spacious meals/family, spa bath in modern bathroom and lots of storage. There is a study which could also be utilised as a 5th bedroom. Home Two - a 3 bedroom brick veneer
home. Fenced stockyard and cattle crush. This unique property offers location- so close to town, railway station, hospital, schools, and freeway access to Melbourne. A rare find. A great opportunity to purchase a large parcel of land in a great location and an initial income to the future owner with the land being leased. Internet ID 22079966. ●
home, separate dining room and lounge with solid fuel, timber flooring and carpet in bedrooms. Tenanted. Older style 3rd house, which is used for storage/ideal for hobbies. Would require extensive renovation for a further home. There is extensive shedding including a 4 bay garage, workshop/woodshed, 3 bay machinery shed, 66’ x 78’ solid concrete and cement brick shed (has a 10 unit w/thru dairy) and lean to shed. Large shed near 2nd
HOME ESSENTIALS
Price: $2,400,000 - $2,500,000 Inspect: By appointment Address: 320 Higgs Road, DROUIN Contact: Sally J, 0417 037 079, SEJ REAL ESTATE, 5622 3800
Take advantage of the $20,000* first home owners grant and even better…. Receive up to $25,000* for the new builders scheme. Now is the time to buy! *eligibility criteria must be met
—
96
Lampard
| Drouin
| Drouin
Road
Inclusions • Carpet to remaining • Flush panel • Vinyl wrap kitchen areas from builders internal doors with stone benchtops range • Internal door handles • Stainless steel electric • Stainless steel sink • 50mm Scotia cornice oven and flick mixer throughout • Stainless steel gas hot to kitchenTOWN • White glo tub plates • Chrome mixer tops to laundry • Stainless steel range from builders range • Weathertough acrylic hood • Mirrors with polished to all exterior • Ducted heating edge to bathroom • Sewer power, • Ceramic floor and wall • Exhaust fans to drainage, gas and tiles as per floor plans bathrooms water connections as *Subject to developers final approval, statutory regulations & builders preferred sitting. from subject to change without notice. • Roller *Pricing & inclusions Pictures door for illustration purposes only. per plans builders range to garage • Outdoor water taps pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
FOR SALE - 18 Stunning Units Nestled amongst the open space of Bellbird Park, Drouin. First home buyers grant of $20,000 available to eligible purchasers. BUY NOW AND SAVE THOUSANDS ON STAMP DUTY!
For more information, contact: Dale Atkin: 0402 717 891
Don’t miss this opportunity to purchase a unit in a great part of Drouin, surrounded by open space and parklands. With 2 & 3 bedroom and single & double garage options, these quility built units feature open plan kitchen/meals/living area, and high quality finishes throughout. 96 Lampard Road is located just 1.5kms from Drouin’s main shopping precinct, schools, train station and recreation facilities. Take a leisurely bike ride along the ‘Two Towns Trail’ from Drouin to Warragul, enjoy the town’s restaurants and cafe’s, take the kids to the local skate park, or make the most of the array of sporting facilities offered in Drouin including golf course and basketball stadium.
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2 Bedroom - $349,950 3 Bedroom, - $399,950 2 Bedroom, plus study - $ 374,950
* Images are for illustration purposes only.
Thursday, 10 December, 2020
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STAR NEWS 21
FOCUS ON … REAL ESTATE
SEJ
T 16P_
Real Estate
The SITe To be SeeN!
SECURE THIS BEAUTIFUL PROPERTY 53A & 53b Alfred STreeT WArrAGUl 2 TITLES = 1518m2 zoned Industrial 1 with exceptional frontage & high traffic exposure assured! As entering or leaving Warragul CBD, located between the Railway, old & new industrial area of town and the Freeway this land is at the heart of it all! Where new industrial/commercial preference has been shown & is rapidly establishing this position is not one that can be replicated. 2 freehold titles. Factory in place on 53A. Internet Id: 21297594 AUCTIoN: friday 18th december 4PM TerMS: 10% deposit - Settlement 30/60/90 days View property and more details at www.sej.com.au
5622 3800 Cnr Smith & Queen St, Warragul
www.sej.com.au
AN exciting opportunity to secure this beautiful property in a highly desirable location within close proximity to M1 freeway, Princes Highway, Westfield Fountain Gate, primary and secondary schools. Presenting four spacious bedrooms plus study/fifth bedroom, master bedroom complete with spa bath and walk-in robe whilst the remaining bedrooms all have builtin robes and brand new floating floorboards throughout the home.
There is four living areas through the home including an immaculate formal lounge, dining room; generous open plan family and meals area, rumpus or home theatre room plus an upstairs retreat. The kitchen offers ample bench space and has cupboards galore with stainless steel cooking appliances plus a dishwasher and brand new ceaser stone benches. Outdoors you have a fantastic undercover entertainment area overlooking the
established gardens with lots of fruit trees and vegetables. Additional features include: gas dusted heating and cooling, an ultimate wood heater, garden shed, large laundry, external security shutters, solar panels, 7000ltr water tank with electric pump plus so much more that only an inspection could provide an insight. So book your private viewing today. ●
HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 8 Sanctuary Rise, NARRE WARREN Description: 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $820,000 - $890,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Khalid Sarwari, 0422 406 745, ONLY ESTATE AGENTS
Take advantage of the $10,000* first home owners grant and even better…. Receive up to $25,000* for the new builders scheme. Now is the time to buy! *eligibility criteria must be met
Pakenham
Inclusions • Vinyl wrap kitchen with stone benchtops • Stainless steel electric oven • Stainless steel gas hot plates • Stainless steel range hood • Ducted heating • Ceramic floor and wall tiles as per floor plans from builders range
• Carpet to remaining areas from builders range • Stainless steel sink and flick mixer to kitchen • Chrome mixer tops from builders range • Mirrors with polished edge to bathroom • Exhaust fans to bathrooms • Roller door to garage
• Flush panel internal doors • Internal door handles • 50mm Scotia cornice throughout • White glo tub to laundry • Weathertough acrylic to all exterior • Sewer power, drainage, gas and water connections as per plans • Outdoor water taps
Whether you’re looking to downsize and keep the caravan or boat, a first home buyer looking to enter the market or savvy investor, this development has a little something for everyone. Located in an established part of Pakenham, opposite parklands and open space, the fresh air and neighbourhood vibes will have you feeling at home in no time! With close access to all the amenities such as shopping, schools, restaurants and more throughout Pakenham and surrounding towns, you’ll have everything you need. With easy access to the M1. 2 bedroom townhouses $369,000–399,000. 3 bedroom townhouses $409,000–$449,000. First Home Owner Grant $10,000 (to eligible applicants) Prices subject to change 12452900-LB26-20
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NEWS
IBAC INQUIRY
Geoff Leigh appears at the IBAC Operation Sandon inquiry on 3 December.
Inga Peulich was ‘expected’ to hand a developer’s briefing notes to thenPlanning Minister Matthew Guy in 2014, IBAC heard.
Peulich named in rezoning By Cam Lucadou-Wells Liberal ex-MP Inga Peulich was expected to “go into bat” for a developer during a push to rezone Green Wedge land in Baxter in 2014, an IBAC hearing has been told. At the time, developer Watsons was lobbying for 42 hectares of ex-farmland at Stotts Lane to be rezoned for housing. According to an email chain in February 2014, Watsons director Heath Woodman - son of IBAC witness John Woodman - prepared a briefing note on the matter. Watsons’ Liberal lobbyist Geoff Leigh was to “personally” hand-deliver the notes onto Ms Peulich, who was to pass them to then Planning Minister Matthew Guy, IBAC heard. “Would that be an appropriate thing to do?” IBAC Commissioner Robert Redlich asked Mr Leigh. “It’s what the person that receives it does
with it after that,” Mr Leigh said. “People write to MPs and they often respond, come back ... Sometimes MPs do it because they think it’s in the economic interest.” Heath Woodman writes in an email to Mr Leigh requesting for Ms Peulich to make sure “we don’t have a problem with authorisation” from Mr Guy. “If you can reiterate this to her politely that would be great,” Mr Woodman wrote. Mr Leigh agreed “perhaps” with IBAC counsel assisting, Michael Tovey’s assertion that Mr Woodman expected Ms Peulich to be “going into bat for him on that issue”. “She may have or may not,” Mr Leigh told the inquiry. “But the point was the minister said no.” Mr Tovey asserted that Ms Peulich appeared “significantly involved” in Mr Leigh’s lobbying strategy for Stotts Lane. In a 2014 email, Mr Leigh sets out a detailed
strategy based on discussions with “Inga” and his business partner and ALP lobbyist Phil Staindl. “Will discuss with Inga a bit more tomorrow night.” Mr Tovey asserted: “Was it the case that she was significantly involved in assisting you with the strategy to be used in respect of the Stotts Lane?” “Not necessarily so at all,” Mr Leigh said. “Because Inga and I, if you check with anybody you like to know, often have serious disagreements about things. “With great respect, Mr Tovey, you’re making it out like there’s some sort of sinister game going on, and it’s not. “It’s just asking for someone’s advice.” Mr Leigh said there was an element of “bluff” in the email. “Mrs Peulich probably thought it was economically it was something worth pursu-
ing based on her own community’s benefit or whatever.” Mr Leigh described Ms Peulich as a “friend” that he’d known for a long period. IBAC heard that Mr Leigh and his then business partner and ALP lobbyist Philip Staindl were offered a success fee by Watsons, but were ultimately unsuccessful. Watsons paid Mr Leigh and Mr Staindl $500,000 each as a success fee after Brompton Lodge land was rezoned in Cranbourne in 2014. In a final statement at IBAC, Mr Leigh said he didn’t know why IBAC hadn’t called Heath Woodman. “If I’m accountable for any of this then so is he - if I’ve done anything inappropriate. I don’t think we did.” Mr Leigh added that “we’re all waiting for the one person that you haven’t called who had dinner with John Woodman”. “And that’s the Premier (Daniel Andrews).”
Woodman’s platinum access to Government Ministers By Cam Lucadou-Wells Developer John Woodman gave $50,000 through five different companies to the ALP’s corporate fundraising arm Progressive Business just prior to the 2018 state election, an IBAC inquiry heard. Mr Woodman is under IBAC investigation over alleged corrupt land deals in City of Casey, including a land-rezoning push in Cranbourne West involving Labor MPs and Casey councillors at the time. He was a top-tiered ‘Platinum member’ of Progressive Business, which gave access to Government Ministers at a range of social events. These included cocktail events, state budget breakfasts, “ministerial speed dating” business forums and $1000-a-head Premier and Cabinet dinners. As a high payer, Mr Woodman was entitled to seats for himself and his guests such as his planning consultant Megan Schutz at head tables with Premier Daniel Andrews or Treasurer Tim Pallas. According to IBAC evidence, Mr Woodman gave more than $150,000 to Labor’s 2018 state election campaign. At the inquiry on 7 December, Fleur Morales, Progressive Business’s executive director up until September, was asked about Mr Woodman’s $50,000 donation before the 2018 election. She agreed the “invoice splitting” was designed to avoid the $13,400 cap for not dispakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
Fleur Morales at the IBAC Operation Sandon inquiry on 7 December. closing the donation. In 2017-’18, Mr Woodman’s company Watsons donated $25,000 to Progressive Business - which exceeded the cap and was declared to the AEC. Since the 2018 election, the cap dropped to $1000 - which coincided in a waning of interest from State ministers. Progressive Business donated a “bulk
amount” of $1.143 million to the ALP in 2018’19. In the last five weeks before the state election, Progressive Business donated about $500,000 to the state ALP. Since the 2018 donor reforms, the association was forced to channel its “surpluses” federally. It could no longer raise funds for state elections, Ms Morales said.
There was now “less appetite or interest” from state Ministers to take part in Progressive Business, as well as a membership decline. “I couldn’t put a substantial program together,” Ms Morales told IBAC. When asked if ministers still wanted to liaise with business, “I certainly wasn’t getting that impression.” After an Age article with allegations against Mr Woodman in October 2017, Ms Morales confirmed she “made the call” that he was not able to attend Progressive Business functions. “I’m not sure I would have been explicit about the article but there were definite sensitivities. “Mr Woodman would have decided not to attend. But more explicitly it would have been a directive from either the event with the minister or the Premier’s office.” She said Ministers or the Premier’s office would run through the guest list and say who couldn’t attend “at short notice”. Woodman lobbyist Philip Staindl - a member and former director of Progressive Business - advises Mr Woodman in an email in 2017 that Mr Woodman wasn’t welcome at “intimate” functions. But boardroom lunches - which comprise Ministers and up to 20 guests - were “fine”. “The more people in a room, the safer people felt,” Ms Morales said. Thursday, 10 December, 2020
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SPORT
Attorney rests his case By Russell Bennett and Lance Jenkinson Attorney laid down the law for Matthew Smith on Saturday as jockey Nash Rawiller powered home the six-year-old bay at the head of a bumper field to claim the $300,000 Sportsbet Pakenham Cup for 2020. The OTI Racing gelding displayed impressive closing speed in the final stages of the 2500-metre race to storm home just ahead of Creedence and Knights Order, who had a photo finish for the minor placings. Jye McNeil piloted Our Big Mike to victory in the Pakenham Racing Club’s showpiece event back in 2018, and this time around with Noel Callow on board the horse jumped away well and led down the back - along with Knights Order - into the rain and headwind, with Haky third. Our Big Mike then looked to extend his lead with 750 metres to run but the highlyfancied Waterhouse and Bott-trained Knights Order pushed hard to the line, with Attorney mounting a compelling closing argument to ultimately take out the top honours for Smith. This always promised to be a Sportsbet Pakenham Cup like no other, and it proved to be so as Attorney crossed the line in front of just a few hundred spectators and onlookers. The win was particularly significant for Rawiller, who’s spent an extended period of time away from his family during the Covid-19 pandemic in seriously trying circumstances. While there were six horses in single-figure odds earlier in the day, Attorney - with Rawiller on-board - was the one the punters truly flocked to. Speaking to Racing.com in the mounting yard, with winning trophy in-hand straight after the race, he praised his horse and Smith’s training effort. “He’s a really good stayer,” Rawiller said. “He’s proved that. It was a bit of a slog (during the race) but he shone through when it counted. He’ll be placed to advantage in the Autumn where he could almost win a Sydney Cup or something like that. “Full credit to my horse and Matty Smith they’ve done a great job.” Rawiller recalled back to 2003 when he last won the Pakenham Cup aboard Mr Casanova for Colin Alderson. “(The old) Pakenham race track is where we all cut our teeth - the boys from my era,” Rawiller remembered. “You didn’t necessarily have to be on the best horse to win a race there, and there were a few good times there - don’t worry about that.” This time around, Attorney rested his case as a real stayer to watch. Earlier in the afternoon, champion hoop Damien Oliver stormed home aboard the Mick Price and Michael Kent Jr-trained Tavidance to win the $100,000 David Bourke Memorial Handicap by nearly four lengths from Night’s Watch. Tavidance was the red-hot favourite with the punters and justified that faith with a commanding win in another of the Pakenham racing scene’s most significant races. It holds a special place in the heart of those involved with the Pakenham Racing Club, in particular. Mr Bourke was just 19 when he replaced his father as the Pakenham Racing Club’s secretary and was the youngest person to ever assume the role of secretary of a Victorian race club - a record that still stands today. He had a lifelong involvement with the Pakenham Racing Club, and his legacy remains. While not the same as the glorious occasions of past editions, the 2020 Sportsbet Pakenham Cup day reflected the cautious return to normality for both the racing club and the local community. A quality field assembled, and the big race lived up to the hype. Pakenham Racing Club general manager of racing and commercial Wade Calderwood said the racing shone through on an abnormal Cup day where patronage was capped at 26 STAR NEWS
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Nash Rawiller stormed home in impressive fashion aboard Attorney (foreground) to claim the 2020 Sportsbet Pakenham Cup. Pictures: COURTESY OF RACING PHOTOS/NATASHA MORELLO a maximum of 500 people due to the Covid-19 pandemic. “That is the best Pakenham Cup field we’ve put together in probably at least the last four years for depth of quality,” he said. “Even though there were only 10 runners, they were 10 quality runners. “The race itself lived up to that depth with Attorney winning in a really good run.” The punters came hard for Attorney on the day of the race. “Attorney was the one that our sponsor Sportsbet had been spruiking from early on,” Calderwood said. “They certainly had the good oil because it ran very well. “I think it was the form over the distance and that they actually targeted the race. “The horse in its last starts was very promising for that level of distance.” Normally the locals - be they racing regulars or once-a-year punters - flock to the Pakenham Cup. But with strict Covid restrictions in place, the people could not make it to the track, so the Pakenham Racing Club, thanks to their sponsors Sportsbet, took the Cup to the people. At five live sites across the region - the Bottom Pub Bunyip, Longwarry Hotel, Cardinia Club, Club Officer and Garfield Hotels patrons were treated to free food and beverage up to $2000 per site, while watching the race on the big screen and mingling with other would-be racegoers. “It was for all of those patrons who love the Pakenham Cup, but couldn’t get to the track because of Covid restrictions,” Calderwood said. For the lucky people on track, they got to witness a cracking Cup. But there was undoubtedly a different feeling without the masses creating the atmosphere. A bubble had to be created to separate the jockeys, trainers and officials from the members, sponsors and owners. This was to ensure that, should a member of the public have Covid, it did not infiltrate into the racing circle, which has maintained strict protocols from the outset of the pandemic.
Thursday, 10 December, 2020
Legendary hoop Damien Oliver powered home in the David Bourke Memorial Handicap aboard Tavidance. “The racing industry has done very well to continue to conduct its business right from the start of the breakout earlier in the year, so we make sure we’re not resting in our laurels and we ensure everyone adheres to the protocols on site, no matter what race day it is,” Calderwood said. Pakenham Racing Club had the scope to welcome 500 patrons to Pakenham Cup day, but in the end it had to settle on 240 guests, all inside. The weather forecast looked threatening all week, so the club abandoned plans to have patrons outdoors, which turned out to be a good decision. “The winds picked up and it did get fairly rough late in the card,” Calderwood said. “That was when we realised the right decision had been made. “Those people who were inside certainly did have an enjoyable day. “We had a lot of fun and there were a lot of
people who hadn’t got out socially for a long time, so they enjoyed it.” The owners were rotated through to see their horses in action. They were given a prime position overlooking the mounting yard. “We gave them some food and drink and made sure they were made to feel special, even though they were only on site for a short time,” Calderwood said. The best move of the day came from connections of the winning horse Attorney, who booked a dining package to the Pakenham Cup. The owners were also in attendance and they all lapped up the celebrations of a Cup win. “It was very fortunate that the winners of the Cup were actually on-site,” Calderwood said. “They were already making a day of it and then topped it off by winning the Cup.” pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
SPORT
Phoenix rise By Lance Jenkinson
South East Melbourne Phoenix players Kyle Adnam, Mitch Creek and Cam Gliddon model the club’s new road white uniforms. Picture: SUPPLIED
The South East Melbourne Phoenix can finally step out of the realm of the unknown. While the Phoenix’s destination is still to be determined, they at least now have a starting point after the opening five rounds of the NBL21 schedule were revealed recently. It will be an exciting start to the campaign for the Phoenix, tipping off in a blockbuster ‘away’ game in the much-anticipated local derby against Melbourne United on 10 January. Can the Phoenix score their first win of the season over United like they did in their inaugural season last year? South East Melbourne’s first home fixture of the season will be against a revamped Illawarra Hawks four days later. The Hawks are now coached by Brian Goorjian, who needs no introduction around these quarters. The six-time NBL title-winning coach led the South East Melbourne Magic and South Dragons to championships. “To be opening our season with a crosstown Throwdown, followed by hosting the Hawks and former NBA player Deng Adel, is a perfect start to the season,” Phoenix CEO Tommy Greer said. “We can’t wait to get the games under way.” While the delay to the start of the season due to Covid-19 has been difficult to swallow, the patience of the players and fans will be rewarded with a glut of basketball early in 2021. There will be 39 games played in the first 37 days of the season with the Phoenix and United doing the honours of opening the season in a Sunday night game on 10 January. In that span, the Phoenix will play nine games - three at home and six away. Phoenix coach Simon Mitchell is delighted
to have some clarity over the starting point of the season. “I think all of the players and staff welcome confirmation of a starting date,” he said. “It’s great to know what we’re preparing for now and how we will schedule our year. “I love that we are kicking things off with a grudge game against United. “Obviously we have great memories from last season’s kick-off.” South East Melbourne star Mitch Creek and his teammates are ready for a return to competitive action. Like all NBL teams, the Phoenix have endured a long preseason as they waited for Covid-19 numbers to dwindle. “We’ll be raring to go,” Creek said. “It’s going to be a very exciting time for basketball across Australia and especially in Victoria.” NBL21 - Rounds 1-5 South East Melbourne Phoenix fixtures Round 1 Sunday, 10 January: Melbourne United (away) Thursday, 14 January: Illawarra Hawks (home) Saturday, 16 January: Illawarra Hawks (away) Round 2 Thursday, 21 January: Brisbane Bullets (away) Sunday, 24 January: Brisbane Bullet (home) Round 3 Sunday, 31 January: Cairns Taipans (away) Round 4 Wednesday, 3 February: Illawarra Hawks (home) Saturday, 6 February: Adelaide 36ers (away) Round 5 Saturday, 13 February: Sydney Kings (away)
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Pakenham shows some serious fight on the greens PAKENHAM BOWLS SATURDAY Pakenham’s Division 1 side all chipped in to hire a bus, with Dave Wood as double zero driver, for their trip to Parkdale where it was well-known that parking was extremely limited (ironic - no parking at Parkdale!). Their opponents on the other hand were largely an unknown quantity, even though some of their members were recognised imports from strong clubs such as Mentone and Clayton. The game began in blustery and overcast conditions which worsened as the day progressed. The home side was up and about and took the early advantage and had tripled Pakenham’s score after the completion of the first 20 ends overall. Even by the halfway mark, with the Lions putting up more of a fight, Pakenham’s total score was still little more than half that of the Parkers and with one rink really struggling, they were up against it. By the start of the business ends two Pakenham rinks had their noses in front and in the run home the Lions outscored their opponents across the board however it was too little too late and with two up and two down, Pakenham lost overall by 17 shots, 82/99. The best of Pakenham’s winning rinks with 25/19 was Geoff (Voota) Van Vugt (S), Glenn (Google) Bainbridge (3), Dave Wood (2), and Peter (Hacksaw) Bott (L). Although listed as a home game, Pakenham 1’s Round 3 opponent will be away at Mordialloc. Pakenham 2 (Division 3) had a tight game at home against cross-town rivals Cardinia Waters (almost half that team were former Pakenham members, which added to the rivalry). Although they were made to earn it, the home side were in front at all of the important milestones and with three rinks up and a score of 75/71 ran out winners by four shots and collected 16 of the available 18 Pennant points - all in all, a good day at the office. Best rink with 22/15 was Brian Norton (S), Bill Bosch (3), Kevin Holly (2) and the “Wildman”, Graeme Wilde (L). Their next game will be away against the old enemy, Berwick. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
Roy Harvie and Richard Burns in action for Pakenham. Pakenham 3 (Division 4) headed into the hills to renew an old rivalry against Cockatoo; although it is likely that many players from both sides would have had no memory of the last time the two clubs met as they would not at that stage have been members of the bowling community. After the first few ends it was Pakenham which held the early lead but the home side soon gained the ascendency and unfortunately, despite three of the Lions’ rinks being close all afternoon, they were unable to cover the fourth which was badly mauled. That pattern continued for the rest of the match and despite winning on two rinks, the visitors eventually lost 66/94. The best rink with 22/19 was Roger Platt (S), David Moore (3), Adrian (ATrain) Wheelan (2) and Helen Wright (L). The Three’s will host Cranbourne in Round 3.
It was an early start for the Six-A-Side Pakenham 4, which travelled to Hampton for Round 2 of the morning (Spring) competition; however given the conditions it is unlikely that they had to kick any dew off the green. Hampton utilised their home ground advantage to grab an early lead which in this shortened (15 end) version of the game made them difficult to catch. The Lions fought hard and came home with a wet sail, outscoring their opponents by 13 shots to four in the final stages of the game - unfortunately however, they ran out of ends and were narrowly beaten, 25/28. The best rink, losing by just one shot, 14/15, was John Hickman (S), John Barlow (2) and Gail Wilcock (L). Next game is at home against ladder leaders, Willow Lodge. MIDWEEK Pakenham 1 (Division 2) was away at Hamp-
ton Park for what, in previous seasons, has been a tough assignment. As expected, the home side got away to an early lead and after the first 15 ends only Paul Currie’s rink was ahead of its rival and then by a solitary shot. However, the Lions then slipped into top gear right across the board and by the halfway mark had established an 18-shot lead, with two rinks well ahead and the other down by just one shot. By the start of the business ends, two rinks had more than doubled their opponents’ score and the third (Keith Archer’s) had just got its nose in front. To some extent, the front runners then took the foot off the gas and coasted home, while the “Golden Arm” and his crew fought it out to the end to prevail by two shots and ensured that the Lions collected maximum points. Best rink in the overall 69/43 win with 25/13 and 13 ends was Paul Currie (S), Gary (Crow) Crowley (3), (Stormin’) Norm Box (2) and Graeme (Wildman) Wilde (L). Round 2 is due to be played at home against Edithvale, also a winner in round one. With more than half the game completed, Pakenham 2 (Div 3) was well on the way to a big home win against Berwick when the skies opened up and an overall lead of 41/20 ended in a wet and sodden draw. None of the other matches in the section were washed out so by sharing the points, Pakenham and Berwick were both left in the middle of the ladder, ahead of the round losers. However the Lions might justifiably have felt robbed (if only the roof had been completed!). Round two will be away at Cranbourne RSL. Whereas the twos may have felt robbed by the washout, it may have saved Pakenham 3’s bacon. Although there was still time for a comeback, with 39 of 63 ends completed they were down 24/44 to Keysborough when the game was called off - and one rink was copping a hiding. Round 2 will be away at Churchill Waverley Golf, a Round 1 loser. HI-LO The winning number for Round 2 was 44. However this was one of three numbers which was not sold - the prize will therefore jackpot to Round 3. Thursday, 10 December, 2020
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Thursday, 10 December, 2020
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