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Charity wheel turns

Passion for poetry

Women on the march

Garden archives bloom

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All in a day’s work It was jobs, jobs and jobs at Pakenham Library this week thanks to the library’s first Jobs and Skills Expo. Stall holders from various organisations came together to provide information, advice and guidance for new job seekers, experienced job seekers and those who wanted to upskill. On hand to help were librarians Moira Eveleens and Kelly West. Full story page 5.

Battin’s bid fails

“About Children, Being Children”

A tilt at the leadership of the Victorian Liberal Party by Gembrook MP Brad Battin has failed. Rumours swirled on Monday 15 March that Mr Battin would be moving to put his hand up as leader of the Victorian Opposition, against current leader Michael O’Brien. According to reports, on Tuesday 16 March around a third of MPs supported a motion to spill the leadership. But ultimately, Mr Battin’s challenge was defeated by 22 votes to nine. Speaking to media after the event, Mr Battin said he had decided to move against the party leader because he believed he had a “good resume, a positive resume and a positive vibe throughout my electorate”, that could support his leadership ambitions. “I had confidence in the feedback of people I’ve spoken to who do support the fact that

I’ve got a positive resume going forward, and I’ll continue to make sure I’m the voice for the community I represent as well as a strong voice in a team.” He said the result of the spill motion should end “speculation about what’s happening in the Victorian Liberal Party”. “Today, that must stop,” he said. “We must respect the decision of the party room that was put forward, and that decision was well and truly there to support Michael O’Brien going forward.” He refused to be drawn on any future attempts to oust Mr O’Brien, insisting the party had drawn “a line in the sand” and now needed to focus on its aim of getting back into government. The longstanding Gembrook MP insisted the failure of the challenge was “not an embarrassment” and said he had no regrets about the move.

“You have lots of lessons in life, but no regrets.” Asked what those lessons were, he said the party now had a chance to put in place its position in the lead up to the 2022 state election. Mr Battin said he remained “very committed” to working to get Premier Daniel Andrews out of power. “I want to be part of a team going forward. I thought at the time my resume was a strong resume that could lead in the future - at the moment, that’s not the position of the party room. I respect that. “This is an opportunity for the party room to get back together and reassess where we are. “I’ll continue to fight to do what we need to do to get into government in 2022. “We have a great opportunity to reset and get the message out there that we are the voice of the people.”

Mr Battin refused to rule out whether he would one day be Premier. “I won’t rule anything out on that. I’m still young, and hopefully I’ve got a long time left in politics. “I don’t think any person in the world could rule out wanting to be a leader and having ambition.” Late on Tuesday 16 March, Mr Battin resigned from his positions as Opposition spokesman for roads, youth justice and community safety. He said this is “protocol“ after challenging a leader, but pledged to continue working on areas close to his heart. “I’ll continue to work as tirelessly as I can particularly in youth justice and mental health. They’re important to me,“ the Gembrook MP said.

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NEWS

Show-ing up for Bunyip By Gabriella Payne Covid-19 threw a spanner in the works for last year’s Bunyip and District Agricultural Show, forcing them to cancel everything a week out from opening - but there was going to be no stopping the show from going ahead this year, even though it may look slightly different to usual. Having started way back in the year 1900, The Bunyip and District Agricultural Show is a treasured community event and will be celebrating it’s 120th show this Sunday 21 March. This year, there will only be sheep, cattle, goat and horse events held at the Bunyip Recreation Reserve and although organisers are happy that the show is getting back on the road after a difficult year, they were sad to announce that due to Covid, the public will be unable to attend in person. The President of the Bunyip and District Agricultural Society, Andrew Spierings said that the committee had made the decision that it would be “safest for everyone if we don’t have the general public attending”, but said it was set to be a great day nonetheless. “We think it’s important that we ‘keep the lights on’ so to speak,” Mr Spierings said. “We were determined not to go two years without a Bunyip Show, so we thought, any sort of competition where people can come and can get back into showing, which they haven’t been able to do for the last twelve months, would be important for the community.” “We would have liked to have had the public of course, but the extra administrative burden of making sure we meet all those Covid requirements just meant that we didn’t have the manpower and the ability to do that this year unfortunately,” he said. Mr Spierings said that despite the alterations to the show this year, people in the community were definitely getting excited about

Andrew Spierings and Giorgi Boucher at the Bunyip Show in 2019. 191744

Bunyip Show 2019: St Andrews and Natalie McKay from Officer 191744

the livestock competitions this coming Sunday. “It’s a return to some sort of normal routine and what they’ve been used to, and getting back to normal life I suppose,” Mr Spierings said. “They can see the people that they normally see and get back in touch with each other that way and they can get back out on the field and have a bit of fun again - which they haven’t been able to do over the past twelve months.”

ter” next year. “I think we’ll be back going full steam ahead next year,” he said. “We’ll be back on top and definitely looking to improve on a number of things from preCovid - so it will be bigger and better when we come back next year, for sure.” To view pictures of the livestock winners after Sunday, visit the Bunyip Show’s Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/Bunyipshow/

Mr Spierings said that the competition would be starting “pretty early in the morning”, beginning with the horses and although there would be no live video streaming of the event, many pictures of the winners and entrants would be posted to the Society’s Facebook page shortly afterwards. Mr Spierings said that he was looking forward to Sunday’s show and that if things continued the way they were going, he expected the Bunyip Show to be back “bigger and bet-

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Thursday, 18 March, 2021

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NEWS

Linking in with new paths By Gabriella Payne Residents throughout the Cardinia Shire region could be getting out and about in the outdoors more often, with a new shared pathway project on the horizon. Put forward as part of the Cardinia Shire Council’s application for the Victorian Government’s second round of the ‘Growing Suburbs Fund’, councillors hope the ‘Linking Cardinia’ project, which hopes to improve footpaths and bike lanes in the area, will be awarded some money to get works underway soon. The council submitted seven projects for funding as part of the ‘Growing Suburbs Fund’, with the ‘Linking Cardinia’ project being one of them.

The ‘Linking Cardinia’ project will see a “350 m long shared path between Station St and Beaconsfield Railway station and Aqueduct Trail - from the existing path to Dickie Road” built for all residents to enjoy. The project is expected to cost a total of $1.4 million, with the Cardinia Shire Council requesting a $700,000 grant from the state government’s ‘Growing Suburbs Fund’. Toomuc Ward Councillor, Stephanie Davies, spoke about the importance of projects like this at the Cardinia Shire Council meeting on Monday 15 March and said she was hopeful that more paths and bike lanes could be built throughout the area. Councillor Davies told Star News that “I personally really enjoy walking, for fitness, to be outside, to relax and it’s also often my time

to catch up with others”. “It’s so important to integrate activity into our busy lives,” she said. “We want to ensure everyone, including people with prams, wheelchairs and mobility aids, can utilise safe and connected paths, and support active and sustainable transport choice across Cardinia.” Councillor Davies said that these “new pathway connections” would prove to be a “huge benefit to the shire”, for people of all abilities. As well as the ‘Linking Cardinia’ project, council submitted funding applications for the Brunt Road Integrated Child and Family Centre, Pakenham Main Street improvements, the Garfield North Community Cen-

Peter steps up for wheel-y good cause By Gabriella Payne Fundraising efforts for this year’s Good Friday Appeal have already kicked off around Australia, but one local man went above and beyond to help raise money for the Royal Children’s Hospital as he took part in 3AW’s event - “Escape from Neil’s Wheel” last week. On Friday 12 March, Peter Van Zeyl was one of 21 people who stepped into a pod at the Melbourne Star Wheel in the Docklands, and didn’t step out until he had raised a few thousand dollars for the worthy cause. In total, more than $286,000 was raised at this year’s event and since the event began in 2018, “Neil’s Wheel“ has been able to raise over one million dollars for the Royal Children’s Hospital - all going towards helping sick kids. Mr Van Zeyl, the Business Development Manager at Better Rentals Pakenham, said that it was exciting to have taken part in this fun charity event and he had tried his hardest to raise as much money as possible for a fantastic institution. “Every donation counts!” Mr Van Zeyl said. “None of us want our kids to get sick and go to hospital, but if they have to, I think the Royal Children’s Hospital is one of the best in the world and it’s great to have the chance to support it,” he said. Mr Van Zeyl said that all the staff and customers at Better Rentals had really gotten behind him in this charitable venture and it had been incredible to see how much money was raised overall. “Everyone has been getting involved and showing their support,” he said. “It was a busy morning in the pod, we did two laps of the wheel and we finished with $2906.“ Mr Van Zeyl said that on Tuesday 16 March, following his fundraising efforts, a

Peter Van Zeyl from Pakenham’s Better Rentals branch will be raising money as part of ‘Neil’s Wheel’ for the Good Friday appeal. Pictures: SUPPLIED

Mr Van Zeyl was thrilled to hear how much money he had raised.

Peter Van Zeyl and his wife Helen in the pod on Friday.

donor had “topped up“ the amount with a $5,000 donation, which he was thrilled about. With his wife Helen coming along for “moral support“, Mr Van Zeyl said that it was

a fantastic day out, and all for an incredibly worthy cause. Donations can still be made online to the Good Friday Appeal at https://donation. goodfridayappeal.com.au/

tre, Alma Treloar Masterplan Implementation - Stage 2, Koo Wee Rup Bowls and community facility and the Beaconsfield War memorial and streetscape project. Cardinia Shire Mayor, Brett Owen, said at the meeting that these were “all worthy projects for grant applications” and were “all very important and very much needed” in the community. He made a note that the “street scaping improvement works are so important” as the population of Cardinia continues to grow, with more and more people and families moving to the area. It’s hoped that if the application is successful, these projects will help to create jobs and become useful places of connection and enjoyment for the community.

Train works By Mikayla van Loon Gippsland’s train line will be upgraded between Pakenham and Traralgon as part of a major works package. It was announced on Tuesday 16 March that VicConnect, a body comprising UGL Limited, Decmil and Arup have been awarded the project as main contractor. “This investment in the Gippsland Line is all about improving train services for people in the region, now and into the future,” Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack said. Works include duplicating tracks, upgrading level crossings and signalling and adding new platforms to three stations along the line. Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester said the new additions and upgrades should allow trains to run every 40 minutes in between peak times. “These upgrades are absolutely vital to keep the communities of Gippsland connected to each other and to Melbourne,” Mr Chester said. “We’ve seen the benefits of this investment for local suppliers and local employment – there has never been a better time for this investment to help the local economic recovery from COVID-19.” Works have already begun with the contractor carrying out signalling and track inspections in February. Bunyip, Longwarry, Morwell and Traralgon will see site surveying and investigations in the coming weeks. Minister for Transport Infrastructure Jacinta Allen said using local businesses for the construction of this rail project is vital. “This larger package of works will deliver even more benefits for the local economy – and will mean the Gippsland Line Upgrade has created more than 500 vital local jobs for Eastern Victoria,” she said. Local contractors will be able to express their interest in the project when VicConnect hosts industry briefings in the coming months. Pakenham East station will include dedicated V/Line tracks, as well as allowing V/Line passengers to connect at Pakenham for a train directly through to Melbourne Airport from 2029.

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Thursday, 18 March, 2021

STAR NEWS 3

THE LOWDOWN Q&A

with Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas

Get to know Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas! What was the best day of your life? I’ve had the two best days - the days my two daughters were born. What was your most memorable moment and why? That moment I realised that I was elected as the next member for Narre Warren South. Never in my wildest dreams did I think that one day I would be part of a Victorian Labor Government. What would your last meal be? A Sri Lankan Yellow Rice with Dahl and Chicken Curry - my mum makes the best! What do you love about your role as MP? The variety of contacts within the community. There are so many people doing the most amazing things and I get to meet, assist and be inspired by them each and every day. What event, past, present or future, would you like to witness and why? As a Saints supporter - the 1966 VFL Grand Final. I hope that I will see the next Saints Premiership. What is your favourite TV show? Seinfeld. It really is a show about nothing. Which six guests, dead or alive, would you invite to dinner? Barrack Obama -former US president; Jerry Seinfeld - US comedian; Miles Franklin - Australian feminist writer (dec.); Julia Gillard former Australian Prime Minister; Paul Kelly - Australian songwriter and musician; Phoebe Waller-Bridge - English screen writer. What has been your most embarrassing moment? Too many to mention in this short piece! What is your favourite way to relax? Travel. Discovering a new place that is very

Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas. different from the everyday always makes my shoulders drop. What three CDs would you take with you on a desert island?

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NEWS

Glenda George Living and Learning Pakenham 231064

Nicole Peresso from Windermere 231064

Expo works to fill careers By Mikayla Van Loon Pakenham Library hosted its first jobs and skills expo this week on Tuesday 16 March. Stall holders from various organisations came together to provide information, advice and guidance for new job seekers, experienced job seekers and those who wanted to upskill. Many of the service providers said they wanted to build awareness, re-engage with the community and offer support particularly after a rough year for workers. “We’re looking to help the community really find their employment dreams and goals and get them into work,” Regional Manager for atWork, Nicole Stock said. Ms Stock said they were hoping to help 15 to 20 people find the right program and to show the Pakenham community that there is

support out there. “I think things are changing now with COVID, there’s a lot of people that are just starting to feel comfortable to go out to work again, so I think it’s important to have events like today to encourage that growth in the employment market again,” Ms Stock said. Pakenham Library has always been committed to helping people find work and CEO of Casey Cardinia Libraries Chris Buckingham said this is one of many jobs and skills expos to be held. “This Jobs and Skills Expo at Pakenham is an important expression of support for people in the community who are navigating the labour market in a disrupted environment,” he said. “We are incredibly grateful for the support of our partners in pulling this expo together

and look forward to working with them again in the future.” Universities, disability employment services, youth services and tafes each displayed their opportunities and programs. DVJS Employment Solutions’ Community Liaison Manager Danielle Jackson said a lot of people with disabilities, anxiety, depression or medical conditions, don’t know there are services to help them find employment. “Instead of feeling like they have to tackle it on their own or in Jobactive, they know that we’re here to offer support as well and what the avenues are to get onto programs,” she said. Ms Jackson wanted people to feel included and confident about work opportunities and said that is why events like this are important to a community.

The expo also allowed some stall holders to conduct dedicated presentations on areas like starting a business. Recent high school graduate Crispen, said he attended the event to learn about his options and how to achieve his goals for the future. “I want to start a business of my own eventually, probably something in the IT department but I want to learn where to start,” he said. Crispen said he wanted to understand the building blocks and first steps needed to start his own business and that he was planning ahead for when he finishes tafe. Organisers of the event were pleased with the turnout and the range of people who attended and hoped the Pakenham community enjoyed the day.

Berwick poet is in love with the rhythm of nature By Mikayla Van Loon Words and vocabulary are usually a passion of most English teachers but for Liesel Kippen, 49, the word passion doesn’t even begin to describe her love for language. Originally from South Africa, Ms Kippen taught English at secondary school for 11 years before moving to Australia in 2005, where she has now taught at the same primary school for 16 years. When talking about language, the passion spills out of her in the most exuberant way, her voice rising as she describes how vocabulary can make something so compelling or beautiful or have more meaning. “Vocabulary is so powerful and words are so powerful and how we use them can obviously relay our tone,” she said. “I love vocabulary, I love language. I’m passionate about language.” During the COVID-19 lockdown, Ms Kippen started writing poetry and exploring the different writing styles and techniques of poems. “I used to do a few poems in my writers workshops here in Australia in the last five years but not putting it into a poetry book, that thought didn’t cross my mind until last year,” Ms Kippen said. “I used to do a lot of writing just for myself but I think last year when I wrote my COVID poem, one of my friends told me to publish and I thought ‘ok I’ll publish that’.” After getting in contact with Balboa Press and London Cambridge, Ms Kippen has since published two poetry books, has an audio book on the way, as well as another book of poems. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

Liesel Kippen, author of Cherry Blossoms. Picture: SUPPLIED Her most recent book ‘Cherry Blossoms’ explores the theme of hope and compassion through people’s connection to nature. “I just love nature and the powerful impact nature has and I was able to use all that descriptive language and figures of speech in my writing to actually bring out nature and it’s phenomenal aspects,” Ms Kippen said. “The fact that nature can inspire in spite of everything and especially with COVID the way it was, I found an enjoyment in writing and finding out that nature can impact beautifully and powerfully on a person regardless of the situation we find ourselves in.” As someone who grew up by the beach in South Africa and spent every spare minute swimming, canoeing and taking bush walks, Ms Kippen has always had a tie to nature’s wonders.

Cherry Blossoms poetry book cover. Picture: BALBOA PRESS Now living in Berwick, the Cranbourne Botanical Gardens are right on her doorstep, something Ms Kippen says she is so lucky to have. “I think I’m inspired by the fact that I can take a walk or a drive just up the road and be a part of the Botanical Gardens and see all the things that are there,” she said. “When I see all the flowers, the different types, I take photos of it because then I can write about it, describe it, it’s appearance and how it looks.”

Ms Kippen believes throughout the pandemic people lost their connection to nature by being inside all the time but by being in lockdown, once able to enjoy nature people took better notice of everything it has to offer. “It has so much beauty to give to life, to add to life and value and quality to life which we just took for granted and that just made me so much more aware that we’ve got all of these fantastic things and while they are free and we can’t take them for granted, to appreciate it but to also know that we are blessed as a result of it,” Ms Kippen said. When it comes to poetry, Ms Kippen is influenced by some of the most descriptive writers in history, including Jane Austen. “When I read some of her works, I love how they describe different settings, different people, just their character and the use of powerful vocabulary or vivacious vocabulary I like to call it, to bring out or enhance either a person or a setting or an environment.” Something else that inspires her writing is visuals. “Pictures play an important role, it’s almost like it opens a whole new dimension for me to write, it encourages the imagination to write more and to be inspired to a great extent,” Ms Kippen said. By describing what she sees in a photograph or a picture, Ms Kippen can expand her readers imagination through words. “They see to a degree what I’m seeing and what I’m thinking of and what I’m exploring in my poems.” Ms Kippen is now exploring the writing process of a novel, which she plans to continue writing after the release of her next poetry book ‘Whispers in Time.’ Thursday, 18 March, 2021

STAR NEWS 5

OPINION

Renew your pet’s registration

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City of Casey pet owners are being reminded to update their furry friends’ registration with renewals due by 10 April this year. The council has begun issuing reminders to animal owners regarding pet renewals. The renewal process can be undertaken online via the council website, in person at a City of Casey customer service centre or over the phone. Initial notices will be sent out this week, with a follow up SMS reminder sent towards the end of April and then final notices in May. Registration helps ensure you can be reunited with your pet if they are lost. It’s particularly important for people who have recently moved house or moved into the municipality, or if ownership of the animal has changed, to check their pet’s registration details. To find out more visit the council’s pet registration renewal page.

LENSCAPE

The 2021/22 City of Casey Community Grant program opens on Monday 22 March, offering assistance to local groups to deliver programs and events that support positive outcomes for the Casey community. Grants of up to $5000 are available to notfor-profit community groups and organisations to hold community events, programs and activities that are innovative, promote a sense of community and inclusion and help residents to engage in community life. Last year, the Community Grants program

helped approximately 100 groups to plan and deliver important programs, events, and services for the Casey community. While Covid-19 meant that many had to postpone or re-schedule events, redirect funds to different types of activities or change delivery methods from face-to-face to digital, the grants program played an important role in keeping the Casey community engaged and connected during the pandemic. An information session for the 2021/22 Community Grants will be held on Monday 22 March at 11.00 am at Lynbrook Community

Centre to provide applicants with more information and support. To register please visit www.casey.vic.gov.au/community-grants or call 9705 5200. If you are unable to attend the session but would like more information to be sent to you, please email communitygrants@casey.vic.gov. au. Applications for the 2021/22 Community Grants close 5.00 pm Tuesday 27 April. For more information visit www.casey.vic.gov.au/ community-grants

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SOCIALLY SPEAKING

Thursday, 18 March, 2021

up to Dave Nagel coming back.

wgca no reserve days.

Here’s how our readers reacted online: Sarah Wogan: Typical that the council is looking after their own back pocket and dismissing its community. They can’t even mow the grass consistently. When

Thumbs down Dan Andrews is still premier.

Thumbs Up Thumbs Down is your chance to have your say. Malicious or defamatory submissions will not be accepted. All submissions must include a full name address and daytime phone number. Contributions over the phone will not be accepted. Contributors will not be identified. The Star News reserves the right to edit submissions. To submit a Thumbs Up Thumbs Down email to dailyeditor@starnewsgroup.com.au fax to 5945 0777 or post to P.O. Box 9 Pakenham 3810.

are we going to get something in return for our exorbitantly high rates? The community is screaming for more services Jessy Appel: What? Not the pool Tina Dodd: That would be shame. Heaps of good memories pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Pollies march for justice By Danielle Kutchel Local politicians joined thousands of women marching through the Melbourne CBD for the March4Justice to support victims of sexual harrassment, violence and assault. Held on Monday 15 March, the event was organised independently in response to numerous recent allegations of sexual assault especially in Federal Parliament - and was one of a number of similar protests held around the country. In a picture shared on social media by Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams, parliamentarians including Bass MP Jordan Crugnale, Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards, Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas and Narre Warren North MP Luke Donnellan can be seen joining the crowd. Ms Williams, who is Minister for Prevention of Family Violence and Minister for Women, said she had known the event would be “significant”. “This is an issue that really resonated with people and I think that’s perhaps what the Prime Minister and Federal Government misread the room on,” she said. “I don’t think they realised the reason why this resonated with people is because everyone has a story to tell and most of them are tear-soaked. “The turnout and activity online even among those who couldn’t attend, indicate that this is a watershed moment.” She said the marchers carried with them “decades of frustration at the lack of change”. “I’m hoping by having this discussion that’s out in the open about these issues, that we have them taken more seriously. I genuinely do believe this wont blow over.” Bass MP Jordan Crugnale said she marched because “all women deserve better”. “It’s really infuriating that in 2021 we still

A placard at the march.

Picture: SUPPLIED

A selfie taken by Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams, showing some of the Victorian Labor politicians who marched. have to march, to fight to have our voices, our stories, our experiences heard. Change needs to happen,” she said. “We marched to bring to attention that gender bias that still exists, that gendered violence still exists and that we have a long way to go. “Stories of racism, gender bias, stories of systemic challenges, stories of adversity, stories of hope, resilience and courage and support. This is real and won’t go away.” Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas also said the event was decades in the making. “The March4Justice builds on decades of women’s struggle for acceptance, respect and equality. I believe that the national March4Justice was a defining step to ensure community change - so that all women can feel safe in their streets, workplaces and homes.”

“I proudly joined thousands of women across the country who stood up to have their voices heard and acknowledged. Women should feel safe no matter where they are but especially in their workplace. If the structures and processes that are currently in place don’t facilitate fairness for women then they should change,” he said. Narre Warren North MP Luke Donnellan joined his colleagues in saying “enough is enough”. “It’s clear from the voices and lived experience of so many women in our community that a public discussion about sexual assault and power imbalance is long overdue. That’s why the march was so important,” he said. “Our community is ready for this discussion and the message is clear - enough is enough.”

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BY ED u Y AS Y .a TR CH NL om EN UR T O rk.c EP KE pa PR TIC dner

DON’T FORGET TO BRING YOUR FACE MASK

sit

3 Days

The March4Justice had four major demands: 1. A full police investigation of rape and sexual assault allegations, and misconduct by Members of Parliament and staff 2. An independent wide-reaching review commissioned by the High Court of gendered violence in Australia’s Parliaments including Federal Parliament 3. Australia wide strategies for deep cultural change in workplaces, and the political and criminal justice systems, focused on promoting equality, respect, fairness, integrity and a level playing field for all 4. A Federal ICAC - Independent Commission Against Corruption

Victoria’s premier regional agricultural show

Labor women march through Melbourne. Picture: SUPPLIED

Friday - Sunday 26-28 March 2021 Lardner Park Gippsland Featuring ● Farm Machinery & Equipment

● Livestock & Agribusiness

● Telstra Women in Ag Lunch

● Animal nursery

● Farm World’s Fittest Farmer

● Loads of Retail Shopping

● Cars, Motorbikes, Caravans & Boats

● Health & Wellness

● Farm World Market Place

● Food & Family Areas

● Outdoor Living & Gardens

● Cooking Demonstrations

...and so much more

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Lardner Park Strategic Partners

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For full event information and more, please visit www.lardnerpark.com.au or follow Farm World - Lardner Park on Social media.

pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

Thursday, 18 March, 2021

STAR NEWS 7

Light Meals Available 9am - 3pm EGGS ON TOAST CHOICE OF FRIED/POACHED/SCRAMBLED EGGS SERVED ON SOURDOUGH $14

OPEN OMELETTE W/CHERRY TOMATOES, SPINACH, MUSHROOM & SOURDOUGH $19

VISTA MUESLI WITH MILK, NATURAL YOGHURT & MIXED BERRY COMPOTE $16

SMASHED AVO ON SOURDOUGH W/2 POACHED EGGS TOPPED W/CRUMBLED FETA & DRIZZLED W/OLIVE OIL $21

HAM & CHEESE TOASTIE $10

HAM, CHEESE & TOMATO TOASTIE $11

CHEESE & TOMATO TOASTIE $10

LAMB, TOMATO RELISH, SPINACH & CHEESE TOASTIE $12

EGG, BACON & TOMATO RELISH TOASTIE $12

HOMEMADE SCONES (SWEET OR SAVOURY) W/HOMEMADE JAM AND CREAM $51 | $9 FOR 2

Extras BACON $4 | MUSHROOMS $4 HASH BROWN $3 | SAUTÉED SPINACH $3 GRILLED TOMATO $3

Hot & Cold Drinks

BUTTER CHICKEN CURRY (GF) W/ RICE AND FLAT BREAD $24

VEGAN BURGER (V) VEGAN PATTIE W/ LETTUCE CARROT, CUCUMBER, TOMATO ONION AND BEETROOT RELISH. $22

HOKKIEN NOODLES STIR FRY (VG) TOSSED IN MIXED VEGGIES, SOY & CHILLI; FINISHED W/ FRIED SHALLOTS $20 - ADD CHICKEN $4

SLOW COOKED PULLED LAMB GREEK SALAD LETTUCED ONION, TOMATO, CUCUMBER, OLIVES & FETA, FINISHED W/ OLIVE OIL & LEMON JUICE DRESSING $24 - WITHOUT LAMB $19 (VG, GF)

CHICKEN SCALLOPINI (GF) CHICKEN BREAST SAUTEED IN A WHITE WINED BACON & MUSHROOM CREAM SAUCE, SERVED W/ STEAMED VEGETABLES $26

HAWAIIAN CHICKEN PARMA W/ HAM, NAPOLI, PINEAPPLE, CHEESE, CHIPS & SALAD $25

AMIGO’S CHICKEN PARMA

Smoothies - $9

W/ SALSA, GUAC, JALAPENO’S, CHEESE, CHIPS & SALAD $25

BEGREEN

CAJUN CHICKEN SCHNITZEL BURGER

SPINACH | BANANA | KIWI | CUCUMBER | OJ

W/ LETTUCE, SWISS CHEESE, CARAMELISED ONION, CHIPOTLE MAYONNAISE & SIDE CHIPS $22

TROPICAL BLITZ MANGO | PINEAPPLE | OJ

STRAWBERRY SMASH STRAWBERRY | BANANA | OJ

Milk Shakes - $7 CHOC | STRAWBERRY | VANILLA | BANANA CARAMEL | BLUE HEAVEN MAKE IT A THICK SHAKE ADD $2

Soft Drinks & Juice - $4.5 PEPSI | LEMONADE | SUNKIST | SOLO | PEPSI MAX - (BOTTLED)

VANNI’S OPEN SOUVLAKI YOUR CHOICE OF LAMB, CHICKEN OR MIXED MEAT W/ PITA BREAD, GREEK SALAD, GARLIC SAUCE & HERBED CHIPS $25

NICKO’S LEMON & HERB CALAMARI (GF) SERVED W/ GREEK SALAD, CHIPS AND GARLIC SAUCE $24

MOUSSAKA GREEK STYLE LASAGNA W/ LAMB BOLOGNESE LAYERS OF EGGPLANT & POTATO FINISHED WITH BECHAMEL CHEESE SAUCE SERVED W/ GREEK SALAD $23

Tea - $4.5

Entrée GARLIC PIZZA (V) $10

MARGHERITA PIZZA (V)

ENGLISH BREAKFAST | CHAMOMILE | MINT | LEMON EARL GREY | GREEN

$12

Coffee by

W/ LEMON WEDGE $10

ST.ALi Single Origin Organic - Wide Awake Cup $4 - Mug $5

LATTE | CAPPUCCINO | FLAT WHITE LONG BLACK | LONG/SHORT MACCHIATO SPICED/VANILLA CHAI | ADD $ ICED COFFEE $7

YIA YIA’S DOLMADES (6) (GF, V)

GRILLED SAGANAKI W/ OLIVE OIL, HERBS AND LEMON WEDGE (V) $13

CHICKEN SATAY SKEWERS W/ STEAMED RICE AND SATAY SAUCE (GF) $13

TRIO OF DIPS

ICED CHOCOLATE $7 HOT CHOCOLATE | ADD $.50

W/ WARM PITA BREAD (V) $14

MINI SPRING ROLLS

HONEY | VANILLA | CARAMEL | HAZELNUT CHOCOLATE | EXTRA SHOT

Milks CALDERMEADE FARMS - FULL CREAM | SKINNY MILKLAB ALMOND+$1 | SOY+$1 | LACTOSE-FREE+$1

Main Kitchen

CHICKEN PARMA

W/ HAM, NAPOLI, CHEESE, FRIES & SIDE SALAD $25

CHICKEN SCHNITZEL W/ GRAVY, CHIPS, SIDE SALAD & FRIED EGG $24

FISH N CHIPS W/ FRESH LEMON,TARTAR & SIDE SALAD $23

VISTA BURGER & CHIPS W/ BACON, CHEESE, TOMATO, LETTUCE, EGG & SAUCE $20

PENNE CARBONARA SAUTEED ONION BACON & GARLIC IN A CREAMY WHITE WINE SAUCE FINISHED WITH EGG YOLK AND PARMESAN CHEESE $22

SERVED W/ SWEET CHILLI DIPPING SAUCE (6) (V) $10

Kid’s Menu NUGGETS & CHIPPIES $14

FISH N’ CHIPPIES $14

MINI OPEN SOUVLAKI W/CHIPS $14

PENNE NAPOLI $14

Desserts WILDBERRY CHEESECAKE (GF) NEW YORK CHEESECAKE - $14 DEATH BY CHOCOLATE CAKE COOKIES & CREAM CAKE LEMON MERINGUE CAKE FLOURLESS ORANGE CAKE (GF) ICE CREAM SUNDAE W/ CHOCOLATE TOPPING & SWEET CANDY BAKLAVA & PISTACHIO ICE CREAM

40 Lakeside Boulevard Pakenham (Cardinia Cultural Centre) Bookings/inquiries : 59450015

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Extras - $1

KINDNESS IS KEY - LOCAL FAVOURITE - BE KIND COMMUNITY - KINDNESS IS KEY - LOCAL FAVOURITE - BE KIND COMMUNITY - KINDNESS IS KEY

Thursday, 18 March, 2021

NEWS

Local news proves lucky By Mikayla van Loon Winner of a national local news survey, Adam Sadiqzai, believes a local news source in the community is essential. Having taken part in the joint research project between Deakin University, RMIT University and Country Press Australia, Mr Sadiqzai is one of ten lucky winners of an iPad. The survey looked at the importance of local news in regional and rural settings and asked for suggestions or observations from the community. The survey concluded that printed news still has a strong demand and audiences would like to see more funding going to employing more journalists rather than to improving digital connectivity. Mr Sadiqzai said he wanted to be involved in the survey because he has a real interest in local news and understands the important role a local newspaper plays in a community. “Particularly at a time like COVID, our local newspapers were like any other business and were struggling, so I thought that the survey may help,” he said. A reader of the Berwick Star News and the Pakenham Officer Star News, Mr Sadiqzai said he likes knowing local community media organisations are not owned by corporations and have a dedicated interest in the local area. “I think the role that the local media plays is just essential to building good communities and informing local communities about local news,” Mr Sadiqzai said. “Most of the news I am sincerely interested in is my local news because that impacts my-

Adam Sadiqzai wins an iPad in a local news survey. Picture: SUPPLIED self, my family and my business, so I look forward to the weekly editions of both Berwick Star News and Pakenham Officer Star News because it informs me of the happenings in my community and I suppose impacts me more directly.” Mr Sadiqzai said throughout COVID-19 he really appreciated the coverage and support of local businesses by local media in the Berwick and Pakenham area, which is something he says wouldn’t happen anywhere else. “I like the fact that my local papers are totally vested in the local community and they do that well.” Although he counts himself lucky, having never won anything in his life, Mr Sadiqzai didn’t enter the survey for the chance of winning but to return the support to his local news service.

Meeting to save ‘notable’ Beaconsfield Reservoir Residents desperate to preserve the Beaconsfield Reservoir will hold a public meeting to discuss the reservoir’s future. The Officer and District Community Association is holding the meeting, which will be open to all residents, councillors and officers of Cardinia Shire as well as relevant authorities, and will be held at the Officer Recreation Reserve rooms on Wednesday 24 March at 7.30pm. It’s being called to discuss community concerns and proposals for future of the Beaconsfield Reservoir, which a community coalition argues is set to be ‘destroyed’ by Melbourne Water. Melbourne Water says the current dam wall is unsafe, and that the century-old structure is not up to current dam safety guidelines, as set by Australian National Committee of Large Dams (ANCOLD). Melbourne Water also added that the focus of their work at the reservoir is to improve the safety of those downstream in the event of potentially significant storms where rain events could cause the reservoir to fill, spill and overtop. But the Save the Beaconsfield Reservoir Action Group - led by locals Harry Jensen and Andre Bokos - is fighting desperately to retain the now decommissioned reservoir, in its current state. The action group has now secured the support of the Officer and District Community Association. The two groups wish to “preserve the Beaconsfield Reservoir at its current reservoir wall height and current water level”, arguing that the structure is sound and offers heritage and fire-fighting value to the region in its current state. They also “support the linking of existing walking tracks through the reservoir reserve as an important recreation activity.” As part of their efforts, the group will

The Beaconsfield Reservoir, which the action group hopes to preserve in its current state. hold an open day for the public to visit the Beaconsfield Reservoir at the Beaconsfield Nature and Conservation Reserve on Sunday 28 March from 10am - 2.30pm. Entry is through the GWS Anderson Scout Park, located at 65 Dickie Rd, Officer. Visitors are invited to come along to see the Beaconsfield Reservoir first-hand from the wall, with the action group hoping visitors will “gain an appreciation of what an amazing asset Beaconsfield Reservoir is to Cardinia Shire”. “We would like the general public to be aware of the reservoir’s significance - its history and heritage value, the visual and recreational amenity of the existing lake for families and visitors and its fire-fighting importance to the local community,” the action group said in a statement. “We see the reservoir as the most notable and prospective recreational asset for the public in the fast-growing Officer and Pakenham Growth Corridor.” pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

12483725-SN12-21

pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

Thursday, 18 March, 2021

STAR NEWS 9

NEWS

‘Ballerina’ is the people’s choice By Mikayla van Loon

Henwood award to close soon Nominations for the Stan Henwood Award are closing soon. The award recognises residents who have made outstanding contributions to the Cardinia Shire community. People are being asked to submit nominations of individuals they think have helped Cardinia grow and become a great place to live, work, learn and play. For the first time, nominees don’t need to have been contributing to their community for more than ten years but instead just need to have made a significant contribution to community services in Cardinia Shire. Other requirements include having not previously received the award and having not been a Cardinia Shire Councillor within the last four years. The award honours Stan Henwood who dedicated his life to the Tynong community, which saw him receive Australian Prime Minister for Service to Sport and an Order of Australia for Service to the Community. Applications close Monday 5 April at 5pm via the SmartyGrants portal. For those nominating someone, an account will need to be created before a nomination can be submitted. Visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/StanHenwoodAward for more information about the award, who is eligible and how to nominate.

Cardinia Cultural Centre has awarded its People’s Choice Award from the New Beginnings Exhibition. Lida Chatkiewicz won the award for her ‘Ballerina’ artwork, which proved popular with the crowds. The artwork is described as an “unusual composition with strong structural elements, softened by the whimsical dandelion inspired Tutu skirt.” President of the Cardinia Art Society Jillian Ronald said it was difficult to decide between artworks because of the excellent standard. “We had many wonderful comments about the exhibition with visitors declaring the exhibition was of Melbourne and International standard,” she said. “It was a remarkably diverse exhibition and everyone who came to see it enjoyed the experience.” Cardinia Art Society hosted and curated the event, which was only the third exhibition to be held at the new gallery in the Cardinia Cultural Centre. All artworks were done by members of the local community. Ms Chatkiewicz was presented with a gift voucher for a local art supply shop.

Ballerina artwork wins people’s choice award. Pictures: SUPPLIED

COMMUNITY FOOD & FUN DAY Brought to you by The Berwick & Beaconsﬁeld Chamber of Commerce and the City of Casey.

SATURDAY THE 27TH OF MARCH

discoveR

Chairo PakeNHam

12PM-3PM Blackburn Square Precinct, Berwick Plenty of fun for all with a Women’s, Men’s and Kids Fashion Parade, as well as a Jumping Castle, Soft Play Area, Cookie Decorating, Hair Braiding and Face Painting.

Learning That Lasts a Lifetime • • • •

Kinder to Year 12 on one beautiful rural campus Caring Christian community and safe environment Campuses also at Drouin, Leongatha and Traralgon Family tours by appointment on school days, plus also on Friday 26 March (twilight) and Saturday 27 March • Visit chairo.vic.edu.au/tours to book your tour today

12PM-6PM Village Green Area (Middle of High St, Berwick) Enjoy food created by local restauranteurs, with plenty on oﬀer including Italian, Greek, Spanish, Mexican, Indian, Vietnamese, A La Carte oﬀerings, Cheese platters, and Hot Dogs. Sample local wines, beers and cocktails while being entertained by talented musicians including Paul Hogan (Robbie Williams Impersonator), Conor Birmingham and more!

BERWICK & BEACONSFIELD

585 Bald Hill Road, NaR NaR GooN

Please visit our Website or Facebook page for activity times. Berwick & Beaconsﬁeld Chamber of Commerce

enrolments@chairo.vic.edu.au • 5942 5632

berwickbeaconsﬁeldchamber.com.au Contact Ritesh Prasad, Chamber Co-President on 0450 165 729 for further information.

10 STAR NEWS

Thursday, 18 March, 2021

12487242-AV12-21

12484183-AV12-21

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE EST 2020

pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Aviva Communities Officer

Meeting with volunteers and staff in Clyde.

CFA bosses pay a visit CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan, CFA’s new chief executive officer Natalie MacDonald and executive director people, culture and safety Janelle Leonard have embarked on a tour of CFA’s south east region. The trio have been meeting with volunteers and staff across Victoria’s south east, as part of the fourth leg of a regional tour which has already included visits to the North West, West and South West over the past three months. “Meeting CFA volunteers has been a top priority of mine since starting in my role on 30 November,” Mr Heffernan said. Ms MacDonald also expressed her desire to meet and speak with volunteers across Victoria. “It’s important we listen closely to our volunteers to understand how we can assist them in delivering the best possible service to their communities,” she said. On Friday 12 March, Mr Heffernan met with volunteers at Clyde and Narre Warren alongside deputy chief officer south east region Trevor Owen. “A highlight was being able to meet with many of the local firefighters who fought on

the front line in some of Victoria’s worst fireaffected townships last bushfire season,” Mr Heffernan said. “It is grounding for me to be among our members and to listen to what matters most and share in their experiences.” The tour began with a trip to Bemm River with a lunch to greet brigade members before travelling to Mallacoota to meet with local volunteers and visit fire-affected areas. They both met with brigade members in Orbost, Bruthen, Westbury and Traralgon among other communities. On Wednesday, Mr Heffernan and Ms MacDonald had dinner with Trafalgar and Westbury to discuss areas of improvement for the organisation in the relevant response areas. There was also an opportunity for them both to engage with District 27 staff and meet with senior volunteer leaders. In the coming months, Mr Heffernan will complete his final leg of the tour when he travels the North East region. “I look forward to meeting with more of our members and hearing how we can make our CFA even stronger for the future,” he said.

The Monterey’s - Open plan living at its best Featuring sliding doors opening to a private outdoor entertaining area, The Monterey, The Monterey X & Monterey SX at Aviva Communities Officer are designed with your lifestyle in mind. These gorgeous homes feature 2 bedrooms and 1-2 bathrooms, with scenic views over Gum Scrub Creek. The luxurious Monterey SX also includes a study, which can be used as a third bedroom.

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AVIVACOMMUNITIESOFFICER.COM.AU Catching up in Narre Warren. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

12483925-JW10-21

Thursday, 18 March, 2021

STAR NEWS 11

FOCUS ON … MEDICALLY SPEAKING

Get foot and knee help Most people suffer foot, ankle or knee pain at some point in their lives but as foot and knee pain expert, Dr. Paul Dowie explains, it can be difficult to find effective treatment with longterm results. Dr Dowie, founder of Foot and Leg Pain Clinics and chosen practitioner of some of the World’s best athletes, is providing proven solutions that have helped thousands to alleviate pain, heal injuries and even delay or eradicate the need for surgery. He also provided the following specialist information on common complaints and treatment. Many foot and leg conditions are misdiagnosed and incorrectly treated, often because only symptoms are treated and cause and contributing factors not being addressed. Bad foot posture can continually pull your body out of alignment, placing undue stress on other joints and tissues throughout the body, contributing to pain, injury and arthritis. Consulting a lower limb, musculoskeletal expert who has an understanding of complex foot and leg biomechanics, is essential in ascertaining the exact nature of your condition and providing appropriate treatment. Many foot and knee conditions, e.g. plantar fasciitis symptoms, knee, heel and ankle concerns are incorrectly treated with cortisone injections, anti-inflammatory medications and arthroscopies. These may provide some temporary relief but do not fix these conditions and can delay healing or cause further tissue damage.

· ·

Live your life the way you want

Keeping patients on their feet. 231009 latest medical research supports the · The following strategies for safe, effective, longterm outcomes to relieve pain, improve function and mobility, heal injuries and aid arthritis: 1. Load management strategies, to reduce forces/stress placed through the joints and tissues 2. Encourage joint and tissue repair (often with natural regenerative therapies i.e. Prolotherapy and PRP) 3. Assist/Improve joint and tissue function, range of motion, strengthening and conditioning Foot and Leg Pain Clinics are located across Melbourne including Berwick and, right now, you can get $50 off initial consultations. Bookings: 1300 328 300.

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Caring community offers support with a blue heart My name is Andrew Mackie. The past three years of my life have been something of a roller coaster following my diagnosis of Schizophrenia which has really impacted my speech, behavior, relationship with family, friends and my immediate environment. No matter how hard my family tried to help, my situation kept on deteriorating. I was introduced to Blue Heart Community Care and I met with Kalpesh Shah, the Managing Director to discuss my support options and my first impression of him was overwhelmingly positive. We agreed on rostering a support worker three days a week to assist me with accessing the community, daily chores and other support related activities. My support worker has been dedicated to working closely with me, showing empathy and giving me the reassurance needed to keep me going on my worst days. My support journey with Blue Heart community Care over the past 6 months has been transformational. My support worker has been a great motivation as he constantly strives to reignite my sense of belonging in the community.

Andrew Mackie and his support worker. Picture: SUPPLIED Having a support worker has enabled me to do things I would never think to do on my own. Blue Heart Community Care has helped me build confidence to go out with less anxiety; to live more independently; form new relationships; and better interpersonal skills. For the next 6 months I hope to develop more coping strategies to manage my disability, return to university to conclude my program, start a new job, and live a more meaningful life.

Unknown diabetes danger While it’s an unfair reality that women who develop gestational diabetes are ten times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes later in life, only a third of these women realise that they’re at high risk, according to new research by the University of South Australia. Conducted in partnership with the University College Dublin, the research examined the views of 429 Australian women with a history of gestational diabetes to establish their perceived risks of developing type 2 diabetes, potential barriers to losing weight, and useful strategies for supporting a healthy weight. Lead researcher, UniSA’s Kristy Gray says understanding the risks of developing type 2 diabetes post gestational diabetes is essential as prevention is the key. “Gestational diabetes is the fastest growing type of diabetes in Australia, affecting thousands of pregnant women each year; and globally, it affects almost one in five pregnancies,” Gray says. “Women who’ve had gestational diabetes are ten times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes, but only a third of these women understand that they are at high risk. “Being overweight is a common risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes, making post pregnancy weight loss important in preventing onset of this disease. “In our study, while 75 per cent of the women surveyed understood that they were overweight, this knowledge didn’t translate into a

high level of perceived risk.” Co-researcher, UniSA’s Associate Professor Jennifer Keogh says diabetes prevention strategies must embrace both education and lifestyle. “Women diagnosed with gestational diabetes often have a young family, which means any interventions need to be considered in line with small children, busy lifestyles and multiple priorities,” Dr Keogh says. “The priority is to educate both women with gestational diabetes, and the health professionals who care for them, to ensure greater communication and boost awareness of the risk factors these women have. “This is critical, as close to a quarter of women in this study had not been tested for type 2 diabetes following a pregnancy with gestational diabetes. “We also know that the most effective time to initiate and commit to healthy lifestyle and behaviour changes is up to two years post pregnancy, so interventions are likely to be more effective during this time frame. “Motivation to lose weight is a significant barrier to change - whether it be because of a busy family or because a lifestyle change can be hard to stick to - consistent education, strong messaging and personalised care, can instigate positive change. “Prevention is the key; making sure women’s needs, views, and situations are considered is an essential part of the solution.”

What are WARTS Warts are lumpy growths in the skin caused by infection with human papilloma virus. Common warts seen on the feet are mosaic and plantar warts which are often deeper and resistant to pharmacy preparations. Warts are common, particularly in childhood. Some estimates suggest that up to one in five children have warts, with children aged 12 to 16 years most commonly affected.

BOOK ONLINE NO REFERRAL NECESSARY TELEHEALTH CONSULTATIONS NOW AVAILABLE

The highly qualified Podiatrists at The Foot and Ankle Clinic provide treatment and ongoing care for Warts.

Pakenham 80 John Street 5922 4001 Warragul 170 Normandy Street 5611 9585 www.thefootandankleclinic.com.au 12465400-HL43-20

12 STAR NEWS

Thursday, 18 March, 2021

pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Calls to fix ‘dreadful’ M1 By Cam Lucadou-Wells Two drivers have died in nine months on what Star readers have described as a “dreadful” and “dangerous” section of Monash Freeway. A 28-year-old Cranbourne East man was killed after a crash with a truck in the outbound lanes between Heatherton Road and South Gippsland Freeway about 4pm on Tuesday 9 March. Moments earlier, his car had been involved in a minor crash with another vehicle. The man died at the scene. In June, a man died when his car and two trucks crashed in the same section of freeway. In both cases, Star readers criticized the roadway. “My heart goes out to all involved. This is a dreadful section of road and it is unsurprising that such a tragedy has occurred,” a reader wrote after the most recent fatality. “That section of freeway is dangerous. Something ought to be done before it happens again,” another said. “I hate that location of the freeway. Very dangerous for everyone,” was another comment. In June, other readers commented on the difficulty in merging onto the outbound lanes from Heatherton Road. “You have to negotiate getting across two lanes of traffic to merge onto the freeway while others are cutting across you to get to the (South Gippsland Freeway) exit. “There is a very short amount of road for everyone to find their lane. It needs a solution ASAP.” According to Department of Transport statistics, there had been two fatalities and 26 serious injuries on the section since 2015. There had been 51 other minor crashes.

Traffic congestion ahead of the crash scene. 231049

Traffic is diverted around the fatal crash scene. 231049 A Department of Transport spokesperson said: “Our hearts go out to the family and friends affected by this tragic incident.“ “We are working closely with Victoria Police

Pictures: GARY SISSONS

to investigate the factors that contributed to the incident.” An extra lane in both directions had been added in this section as part of Stage 1 of the

Police and a towtruck at the scene of a fatal crash on the Monash Freeway, Endeavour Hills on 9 March. 231049 Monash Freeway Upgrade. Police are investigating the crash. Any information to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppers.com.au

WELCOME TO THE GAZETTE Connecting people and communities across the region

The independent voice for our region for over 110 years! ay, 17

Wednesd

, 2021 February

Read it every Wednesday in print or online!

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Village fees under review By Cam Lucadou-Wells Retirement villages reform is on the State Government agenda, including the controversial issue of ‘deferred management fees’. The State Government has released an Options Paper for public comment over the next six weeks. One of the burning issues is residents being “caught unawares” by fees and the overall cost of living in a retirement village. Residents have also been surprised by the size of deferred management fees (DMFs) charged by operators upon their exit or the sale of their units, the paper stated. Residents say that it’s difficult to calculate DMFs upfront and to compare costs between villages. The Options Paper raises the possibility of improving education on DMFs and villages providing “yearly contract check ups” on the status of a DMF. It also considers whether contracts are too complex, the upfront advertising of fees and charges, and clarifying repairs and maintenance obligations. The paper follows 151 public submissions - including about 85 per cent from retirement village residents and related groups. A joint submission by Housing for the Aged Action Group and Consumer Action Law Centre described DMFs as an “exploitative cash grab by unscrupulous operators preying on vulnerable elderly people”. “Typically fixed at a percentage of an unknown future amount, accruing over an unspecifiable period, these are fees that no resident can predict, applied at a point where most residents’ capacity will be at its lowest.” The groups outlined an 80-year-old case study who was “trapped” after fighting an operator for two years to repair her unit flooded due to nearby construction.

“She would like nothing more than to leave” but couldn’t afford to pay out the (DMFs) - 30 per cent of the sale price and a share of any capital gain. HAAG and CALC stated more providers threatened residents with evictions for “relatively trivial” breaches, such as smoking inside a unit. They called for a regulator to have powers to restrict or ban marketing of products where there was “significant risk of consumer harm”. Disclosure of fees was insufficient protection because “they do not protect residents against fees that are unfair”, they submitted. New Zealand operator Summerset is plan-

ning to open a village in Cranbourne North. It submitted for mandatory legal advice for incoming residents and for simpler ‘plain English’ contracts - as is the case in New Zealand. Summerset argued against disclosing all fees such as deferred management fees and departure charges in advertising material. It would make advertising “unnecessarily complicated”. The fees were already clearly stated in a factsheet and disclosure statement. Summerset submitted that disclosing prices with and without deferred management fees would be “unnecessarily complex”. Property Council of Australia submitted

that the current factsheet and disclosure statements with details on deferred fees and other charges enabled prospective residents to make an “informed decision”. Consumer Affairs Minister Melissa Horne said feedback from residents and “other interested parties” was “critical in developing the reforms”. “We’re ensuring residents of retirement villages and their families have the opportunity to share their important stories and experiences so that we can address key issues and concerns across the sector.” Details: engage.vic.gov.au/ retirementvillagesact

Caravan scam warning Victorians are warned to be vigilant when planning a caravan holiday in the wake of coronavirus restrictions easing, following a surge in scams over the past five months. Consumer Affairs Victoria has received 17 reports of caravan scams since October 2020, compared with two reports in 2019, and is reminding consumers to be cautious when making significant online purchases. Scammers are advertising caravans online, then making excuses - or taking advantage of lockdown limitations - to convince buyers not to view the vehicle in person, encouraging them to make their purchase ‘sight unseen’. Buyers are then being persuaded to deposit money into a bank account, with promises that they’ll be able to come and collect the caravan, or that the vehicle will be delivered to them. After the buyer makes the deposit, the scammer stops communicating, and the product is never received. Melbourne resident Andrea purchased a caravan through eBay in October last year,

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Stirring trouble By Mitchell Clarke

Stirring trouble By Mitchell Clarke It was the initiative that dished up smiles during lockdown, but now a decrepit looking Spoonville site in Pakenham is providing any-

It was the initiative that dished up smiles during lockdown, but now a decrepit looking Spoonville site in Pakenham is providing anything but joy. During the one hour exercise limit - which is now a distant memory - Spoonville sites across Cardinia Shire were the most popular place to visit. Despite the fad having died down entirely, the Cardinia Lakes community was understandably upset at news their local site appeared to have been targeted by cruel vandals. Estate resident Laksika noticed the destroyed site during her daily walk on Sunday 24 January. “I think someone has just walked over it or kicked them all over. It’s very sad to see it. We always used to stop there and have a look for new ones,” she wrote on Facebook. The reaction from her neighbours was similar. “Absolutely disgusting. The highlight of our walk is our toddler stopping to look and admire the spoons,” one local woman said. “That’s so disappointing. My kids had spoons in there,” another woman added. Pakenham Hills Ward councillor Jack Kowarzik said the news was “really frustrating”. “Spoonville was created by locals for the enjoyment of local children and to see it vandalised is disappointing,” he said. Cardinia Art Society president Jillian Ronald described Spoonville as an “amazing initiative” during Melbourne’s lengthy lockdown. “It’s given joy and positivity in some very dark times and I just think it’s really disappointing that, when the community put together a project to support each other during a difficult time, that someone would take the trouble to destroy it. They’d be better off going home to create a spoon and putting it with

In happier times - Maci, Willow and Aubrey at a Pakenham Spoonville site. 214450 the rest,” she said. “I’d suggest there’s much better things they could do with their time.” The ‘Spoonville’ trend was born out of Winnersh, England, in an attempt to improve mental health by simply making people happy as they were out and about during daily exercise. The quirky saga soon made its way to Cardinia - after Australia’s first ever site was constructed up the highway in Longwarry. Within weeks, the site had spread to Pakenham, Officer, Garfield, Nar Nar Goon, Emerald and Beaconsfield.

Ms Ronald acknowledged the Spoonville craze had now hit a dead end. “They’re getting a little bit tired, so maybe it’s time for the spoons to come home,” she said. Ms Ronald, who commissioned the two local sites at Lakeside in Pakenham, encouraged community members to collect their spoons from their local sites. She added that in mid-February she’d look to clean up all remaining Spoonville’s and relocate any leftover spoons to an “undisclosed location”.

The once popular Spoonville trend appears to have hit a dead end. Picture: FACEBOOK

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with the hopes of taking it around Australia. Having successfully purchased many other products online, Andrea had no reason to doubt the experience. It was only when the delivery of the caravan was expected to be on a public holiday that alarm bells were raised for Andrea. She sent multiple emails for confirmation, both leading up to and following the expected delivery date. When she received no response from the proposed seller, she realised that she had been caught by a scam. Andrea was one of many Victorians who lost a combined total of more than $1.5 million to online shopping scams in the past year. When buying online, be wary of anyone who stops you from seeking further information about a product as this can often be a sign of a scammer. Anyone who believes they may have been involved in an online shopping scam should report it to Consumer Affairs Victoria via consumer.vic.gov.au/reportascam

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Bodybuilder’s strong wins By Danielle Kutchel

diet and training program since March 2020. That means sticking to clean foods, with a focus on chicken, rice, oats and potatoes. “I’m a really big eater and a foodie. I enjoy going out with my girlfriend and enjoying Italian food, fast food and barbecues. It’s a pretty big challenge to go this long without those!” he said. His family and friends have been supportive throughout the journey and are “over the moon” to see him now accomplishing his goals. “This lifestyle affects them as well because

Pictures: CHARLES LOWTHIAN

I can’t go out all the time and I can’t do normal family dinners because of my diet - but for them to be able to see what my goal was and get rewarded for it with the gold medal, that was a big achievement for me,” Mr Lobriza said. While his awards are impressive, Mr Lobriza isn’t done yet and said he will continue to up his game. “There’s room for improvement, but this sport is more of a journey, there is no final destination. Moving forward, I’m aiming to get better,” he said.

James Lobriza after his IFBB wins.

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Dir ty on dining

By Gabriella Payne

Pop-up dining spaces sprang up throughout the city last year as Covid safe practices restaurants and forced cafes to turn to the streets for space, and after a successful summer initiative is set to run, the be months - a decisionextended over the coming that has left some munity members comvery unhappy. The pop-up outdoor dining program originally developed was as a way for businesses to adapt to the ever-changing Covid ronment and saw temporary platformsenviseating areas quite and literally “pop up” Cardinia, with seating around spaces in many areas, taking over car parking including in Pakenham’s Main Street. Whilst many people are enjoying making use of the new al fresco spaces, longtime enham local and Pakactive community Jack Mitchell said member that the lack of cleanliness and maintenance of the Main Street was “an absolute disgrace” and neededspaces addressed by the to be council. “I travel all over the state and I have seen a main street never in as bad a shape Street, Pakenham,” as Main Mr Mitchell said. “It’s just dreadful, everywhere, there’s there are cigarette butts bird and the street pavementspoo all over the place Outdoor dining spaces are falling apart. are proving quite “Why anybody divisive along Pakenham’s would want to Main Street now go to the Main Street. is beyond me,” Mr Mitchell said. Picture: CARDINIA The other, less glamorous SHIRE COUNCIL view of the Main Street outdoor dining Mr Mitchell has be going anywhere lived in the area area. anytime soon, as since 2004 dinia Shire and said he has the Carraised Picture: JACK MITCHELL dinia Shire Council this issue with the Car- sions of Council are now calling for expres- dining spaces had proved popular interest for businesses mer and helped over many times, but avail. to support businesses sum- the shops - but it’s to no new, free “parklets” to apply mainly the dirtiness after a the problem,” - hoping to see more for difficult year. that’s “They told me porary outdoor he said. temthat they’ve got seating areas spring “Outdoor dining but it’s just getting big plans, Cardinia. “We have this big, certainly brought up across the worse,” he said. low-hanging tree a buzz to and streets of the shire outside all these parrots following a tough “Taking away the Cardinia Mayor keep coming along year. It’s great to see parking out the Brett Owen said making a mess. of the shops for and the community front a successful summer that after Cardinia some embrace venues and show trial of the parklets, unbelievable - most outdoor seating is just council Yesterday the council them some much the needed love,” were excited of the seats can’t came because she said. used.” complained to even be ing areas installed to see more outdoor dinwe them and they But the owner and throughout the area. said ‘yes, it’s very dirty’, but Mr Mitchell said “We trialled the they told us that Kebabs, Sam Bayraktar operator of Pakenham clean that the council parklet concept we should sending “someone should be mer in it up.” told over Star News that he sum- and other business Pakenham and we’re down there to clean as the council are owners on Main now on the look- that it up” out for new Mr Bayraktar said Street felt “accountable” for the restaurants, cafes that the area had the spaces are worthwhile ensuring the shire ly become “a dumping recentand bars across saster outdoor seating areas had been that would love to “a difor us”. ground” for people and usable if they are going to be taking leave rubbish and host a parklet from to March onwards,” Cr Owen unwanted junk as up car parking spots. “It’s a total mess,” said. that he didn’t have well, and Mr Bayraktar said. However, the pop-up Councillor Tammy the resources or “We can’t even use dining spaces won’t to be cleaning up the time the seating, it’s so highly of the concept, Radford also spoke less. the “ridiculous” point- side. mess outstating that the al fresco First of all we lost “It’s become more our car parks in of a dumping ground front of and an eyesore than something nice,” he said.

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James Lobriza, far left, poses with winners of other divisions.

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Endeavour Hills resident James Lobriza is a living, breathing example of how hard work and dedication pays off. The 22-year-old has recently picked up a swag of awards for his bodybuilding, after months of sacrifice and commitment to his dream. On Saturday 27 February, Mr Lobriza took part in the IFBB Juniors Bodybuilding Competition’s Victoria State Qualifiers, where he won the under-23s and under-70s body building divisions. Just a few days later on Sunday 7 March, at the ICN Rising Star and Rookie of the Year event, he received gold for the Rookie Men’s Bodybuilding U23, Rising Star Men’s Classic Physique and Rookie Men’s Classic Physique, plus a silver in Rookie Men’s Bodybuilding Open. It’s a remarkable achievement for someone who only began bodybuilding training in March 2020. Having been going to the gym since he was 17 but not been “100 percent committed”, Mr Lobriza decided to see what he was really capable of, and set himself a target to become a bodybuilder. Working with coach Kevin Vo, Mr Lobriza said he began adhering to a strict training and diet plan, all of which impacted his lifestyle. He had originally planned to compete in September, but the competition was cancelled during the pandemic. “We went back to the drawing board, replanned and decided to go for the March competition,” he explained. “A quote that stuck with me from my coach was ‘don’t stress over things you can’t control, just focus on the things you can’, like training, diet and nutrition.” He’s now been adhering to a regimented

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• Pakenham - The Coffee Club Shop 6, 50-54 John Street (Pakenham Central Marketplace)

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Thursday, 18 March, 2021

STAR NEWS 15

FOCUS ON … REAL ESTATE

GREAT FAMILY HOME PRESENTING a property that can equip as a five bedroom, three living area home. Perfect for your growing family. Welcome to one of Officer’s most popular areas. Opposite parkland the property at 12 Jasmine Grove is walking distance to Cardinia Train Station, shops and both primary and secondary schools. The appealing property features: Four bedrooms, master with en-suite and walk-in robe;

· Large study that can be converted into a fifth bedroom; · Formal living zone, rumpus room and family room; · Dedicated dining room adjacent to a large, modern kitchen; · Double car garage with rear roller door access · Decked outdoor entertaining area; Decent backyard, complimenting the 400sqm bloc. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 12 Jasmine Grove, OFFICER Price: $595,000 - $650,000 Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Inspect: By appointment Contact: Gavin Staindl, 0424 227 135, RAY WHITE PAKENHAM, 5940 8355

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This easily maintained home is close to everything you need. The young home presents fantastically & features 3 bedrooms. There is ducted heating & cooling, internal access from the remote operated garage & sliding glass door with access to the low maintenance backyard.

AUCTION Saturday 27th March at 12.00pm VIEW Saturday 20th March 10.00am - 10.30am

CRAIG SEYMOUR

0459 122 056 B R E E T AY L O R

0438 424 807 16 STAR NEWS

Thursday, 18 March, 2021

5940 9922 c21.com.au/pakenham

“Timbara” LOCaTiON & OUTLOOK ON 66.5 aCrES

AU CT IO N

PA K E N H A M 27 Maywood Street

A unique property having extreme privacy yet incredible Mountain views and even glimpses of Westernport Bay. This productive grazing property consisting of very gentle sloping rising country with sound pasture base, carries up to one head to the acre. There is excellent shedding and reliable water. Featuring a spacious 1996 brick home, built by Peter Mikac using quality materials and craftmanship to the highest standards is enhanced by having spectacular western and northern views from many aspects of the home. Polished timber flooring, four living areas and an impressive Master bedroom are just some of the features. Outdoor living is enhanced by the private alfresco. Rarely is there the opportunity to purchase a property of this standard and being in such a sought after location. 7km Drouin, 2.5km Longwarry, 3.2kms Freeway & 24hr servo, 91kms Melb.

75 HammOND rOaD LONgwarry aUCTiON: 10th april 2021 11am On Site TErmS: 10% on signing. Settlement 30/60 Days

View property and more details at www.sej.com.au

5622 3800 Cnr Smith & Queen St, warragul

www.sej.com.au

pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

HOME FOCUS

BEAUTIFUL HOME IN SUPERIOR LOCATION THIS one is so special! A must see to appreciate the many many features often forgotten have all been thought of and are ready for your enjoyment here. 9ft ceilings with perfected square set cornice, extremely fast internet (optic fibre), 4 generous bedrooms and the master ensuite and walk-in robe is all just dreamy. Two living areas plus exceptional alfresco complete with plumbed in barbecue, sink and storage which with stacker doors open is a lovely extension to the dining and lounge. Waterfall stone island bench, full butler’s pantry and classy touches and finish throughout. Walk-in linen, oversized garage plus side access for the boat or van. Don’t delay - 47 Empire Avenue really is a dream come true. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 47 Empire Avenue, DROUIN Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 4 garage Price: $790,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Miranda Pike, 0404 193 205, SEJ REAL ESTATE, 5622 3800

Take advantage of the $10,000* first home owners grant and even better…. Receive up to $15,000* for the new builders scheme. Now is the time to buy!

ONLY 4 LEFT

*eligibility criteria must be met

Pakenham

• 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 $379,000. 3 bedroom townhouses $409,000–$449,000. First Home Owner Grant $10,000 (to eligible applicants) Prices subject to change 12487485-JW12-21

pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

Thursday, 18 March, 2021

STAR NEWS 17

Inclusions • Modern Kitchen with stone bench tops • Stainless steel electric oven • Stainless steel gas hot plates • Stainless steel range hood • Stainless steel dishwasher • Ducted heating • Reverse Cycle Air Conditioner • Remote Control Garage Door as per plan • 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 • Clear glass shower screens to bathrooms • Mirrors to bathroom

• Chrome toilet roll holders & towel rails • Exhaust fans to bathrooms • Flush panel internal doors • Internal door handles • MDF colonial skirtings and architraves throughout • Sewer power, drainage, gas and water connections as per plans • 2 x outdoor water taps (front & back) • Colorbond/concrete roof tiles to builders range • Electrical fittings as per plan layouts • Smoke alarm • Aluminium sliding windows and doors as per plans • Colorbond gutters, fascia & downpipes • Termite protection • E-Screen blinds and Holland blinds to front windows.

• Holland blinds to all other windows (house specific) • Security doors to all openable doors • Door stops • Flyscreens to all openable windows • Clothesline • NBN fibre optic (where required) • 2 TV points • Telephone point to kitchen and bedroom 1 • Smoke alarm • Water tank minimum 2000 litre (tank flush system) or grey water connection (if available) or solar hot water* whichever is applicable • All driveways, paths and crossovers as per plans • Letterbox • Fencing • Landscaping

Montague

| Drouin

PLACE Drouin

Lampard Road

ONLY 3 LEFT

• • • • • •

• Split System Air Conditioner • Dishwasher • Remote Control Garage • Timber Floating Floors

No progress payments Save on stamp duty Low Deposit Driveway & Fencing Landscaping & Paths Included Turnkey Pack

4 HOMES FOR SALE Located in the heart of Drouin, walking distance from shops, parks, lakes and open space. 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

A rare opportunity to purchase a home in the last pocket of Drouin minutes from the town center Surrounded by stunning park lands and open space, this is an opportunity to build the life you’ve always wanted. There are 4 new homes for sale on Montague Avenue, adjacent to the picturesque Alex Goudie native park. Montague Place is located just minutes walk 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. * Images are for illustration purposes only.

* Images are for illustration purposes only.

12487481-SG12-21

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 • Clear glass shower screens to bathrooms • Mirrors with polished edge to bathroom • Chrome toilet roll holders & towel rails • Exhaust fans to bathrooms

• Roller door to garage • Flush panel internal doors • Internal door handles • 50mm Scotia cornice throughout • MDF skirtings and architraves throughout • White glo tub to laundry • Weathertough acrylic to all exterior • Sewer power, drainage, gas and water connections as per plans • Outdoor water taps • Electrical fittings as per plan layouts • Smoke alarm • Aluminium sliding windows and doors as per plans • Colorbond gutters, fascia & downpipes • Termite protection • Colorbond/concrete roof tiles

Optional Additional Inclusions Package • 5kw Split System Air Conditioner • Dishwasher • Remote Control Garage $4,000

• • • • • •

• E-Screens to front and living areas - Holland blinds to all others (house specific) • Security doors to all openable doors • Door stops • Flyscreens to all openable windows • Clothesline • NBN fibre optic (where required) • TV points • Water tank minimum 2000 litre (tank flush system) or grey water connection (if available) or solar hot water* whichever is applicable • All driveways, paths and crossovers as per plans with coloured concrete • Landscaping • Fencing • Letterbox

Jackson’s

| Drouin

PLACE Drouin

Lampard

Road

No progress payments Save on stamp duty Low Deposit Driveway & Fencing Landscaping & Paths Included Turnkey Pack

FOR SALE - 22 Stunning Units

ONLY 8 LEFT

Located in a well established park of Drouin, walking distance from parks, lakes and open space. First home buyers grant of $20,000 available to eligible purchasers. BUY NOW AND SAVE THOUSANDS ON STAMP DUTY!

For more information, contact:

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. Jackson’s Place is located just 2kms 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

For more information, contact:

Dale Atkin: 0402 717 891 * Images are for illustration purposes only.

Dale Atkin: 0402 717 891

* Images are for illustration purposes only. 12487479-JW12-21

18 STAR NEWS

Thursday, 18 March, 2021

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Online: networkclassiﬁeds.com.au (24/7) Phone: 1300 666 808 (Open 8.30-5pm Mon-Fri) Email: sales@networkclassiﬁeds.com.au

yes we can SERVICING PAKENHAM AREA FOR OVER TEN YEARS

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Thursday, 18 March, 2021

STAR NEWS 19

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SAXON FENCING

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V Windows

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Call 0408 227 276 Lic. No. 43679

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5998 7796 FAIRBAIRNS HEATING & COOLING www.fairbairns.com.au Est. 1982

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M: 0 4 3 0 3 5 3 0 8 0 Ben 20 STAR NEWS

Thursday, 18 March, 2021

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10 year Guarantee. Call now for a FREE quote: 0405 817 173

V Positions Vacant

Casual Local/ Interstate Driver

We’re looking for qualified hairdressers.

MC Licence required. Casual hours, will vary each week. Work involves loading/unloading trailers for interstate & local loads Some interstate & local delivery work. Would suit a semi-retired driver living local to Nar Nar Goon.

2. The proposed installations are deemed to be Low-impact Facilities pursuant to the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 Schedule-Facilities and Areas Part 1-Radio Facilities, Item 4, and Part 3-Low-impact facilities 3.1 Facilities (4)(a) based on the descriptions above. Consent from council is not required in this instance.

Please call Jason on 5942-5419 during business hours

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Please contact Chris on 0410 088 231 or 0359180776 12481785-LB07-21

QUALIFIED ROOF TILERS & APPRENTICES WANTED Above award wages paid.

Ben 0421 707 015

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www.mrlockandkeys.com.au

when you present this voucher

1. The proposal will involve the following scope of works: • The installation of a new triangular headframe mounted at 28.5m CL on the existing monopole; • The installation of seven (7) new panel antennas; • The installation of a new equipment enclosure; • The installation of new compound fencing; and • The installation of ancillary equipment such as radio remote units (RRUs), transceivers, ampliﬁers, antenna mounts, cable trays, feeders, cabling, and other associated equipment.

4. This consultation is undertaken in accordance with the requirements of Section 6 of the Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code C564:2020. 5. Further information and/or comments should be directed to: Community.Consultation@kordia.com.au or Kordia Solutions, 22 Taminga St Regency Park SA by 5pm Thursday, 8th April 2021

Real Estate

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896 Cardinia Road CARDINIA VIC 3978 (site 323573. RFNSA 3978004)

3. The proposed infrastructure will comply with the ACMA EMR regulatory arrangements.

9796 8621 0418 367 017

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Real Estate NARRE WARREN, luxury accommodation starting from $160pp per week which includes bills. Bond required. Suit students, singles or couples. Close to bus, train and shops. 0429 022 889.

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ZZZ QHWZRUNFODVVL´HGV FRP DX

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LEIGH HUNTER REMOVALS

Anyone advertising a puppy, dog, kitten or cat in Victoria for sale or re-homing will need a source number from the Pet Exchange Register and a microchip identiﬁcation number. It is now an offence to advertise unless the source number and microchip identiﬁcation number is included in the advertisement or notice. For further information, call 136 186 or visit animalwelfare.vic.gov.au

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DOMESTIC CLEANING, 20 Years experience, police checked , $30/hr, ironing, baby sitting, reasonable rates, European lady, Ph: 0419 802 192.

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ATM RENOVATION • Concrete Slab Leaking Bathroom Specialist • Bathroom Reno Full & Part • Any Tile Master Install FRANK 0400 502 789

9988 9159

WANTED Ships Mooring Rope 40 - 50 metre length. 03 5625 1168 jsedlbauer@outlook.com

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Phone 0419 775 259 or 8751 4016

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• Available in the For Sale or Wanted Classiﬁcations only. • 4 lines of copy • Ad will run for 2 weeks • 1 item per advertisement • Item must be priced under $100 • Private party only – household and personal items • No animals, automotive or plants • Ads must be submitted via email to sales@networkclassiﬁeds.com.au 12477681-CG03-21

DISCRIMINATION IN ADVERTISING IS UNLAWFUL The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 1995 makes it unlawful for an advertiser to show any intention to discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy, race, age, marital status, political or religious belief or physical features, disability, lawful sexual activity/sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS status or on the basis of being associated with a person with one of the above characteristics, unless covered by an exception under the Act. As Network Classifieds could be legally liable if an unlawful advertisement is printed, Network Classifieds will not accept advertisements that appear to break the law. For more information about discrimination in advertising, contact your legal advisers or the Equal Opportunity Commission.

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NEWS

Observing landscape works by the Rock Pool Walkway on 16 March 2004. Picture: RODGER ELLIOT

David Attenborough surveys the Gardens from the Trig Point Lookout with director Philip Moors and Marian Brooks and Peter Howson of the Maud Gibson Trust, on 16 August 1995. Picture: RODGER ELLIOT

Warren Worboys speaking with Maud Gibson Trust members at the Australian Garden, Stage 2, on 13 May 2010. Picture: RODGER ELLIOT

Digging up garden history This year marks 175 years of the Royal Botanic Gardens. The Cranbourne Gardens were opened to the public in 1989, with a focus on native Australian flora. The Australian Garden opened in 2006 and features thousands of plants in an inviting landscape. These images, supplied by Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, showcase some remarkable moments in the Cranbourne Gardens’ history - including a visit from a very famous face...

Chris Russell and Phil Moors inspecting topping trials for the Sand Garden. Picture: RODGER ELLIOT

Maud Gibson Trust members visiting the Australian Garden, Cranbourne, on 13 May 2004. Picture: RODGER ELLIOT

David Attenborough speaking with director Philip Moors on 16 August 1995.

Phil Moors and Greg Clarke (architect) touring the site with the board on 19 October 2004. Picture: RODGER ELLIOT pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

The Red Sand Garden, pictured on 14 September, 2005.

Picture: RODGER ELLIOT

Picture: ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS VICTORIA Thursday, 18 March, 2021

STAR NEWS 21

SPORT

Teeing off in his memory By sports editor Russell Bennett From all walks of life across the south eastern community, they came together at the Berwick Montuna golf course on Friday to remember their great mate - Ash De La Rue. His was a life tragically cut short by cancer, leaving behind a loving family - including a young son. But his was a life that will never be forgotten. Two of De La Rue’s great mates, Justin Stanton and Jeff Bernard, organised a golf day on Friday they lovingly named ‘Flynn’s Sporting Journey’ as it was held to raise funds for young four-year-old Flynn as he progresses in his chosen endeavours, be they academic or sporting. “In April 2018 Ash had what was commonly referred to as a man-flu and he went to the doctor, but he just couldn’t shake it,” Stanton said of the beloved former Berwick footballer and Upper Beaconsfield cricketer. “A few days later the doctor said they’d organise a blood test because they wanted to nip it in the bud. “As a result, he was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML). “All of 2019 he spent in and out of Monash Clayton receiving treatment, and with a very small percentage chance of getting into remission he entered remission in November of 2019, but it unfortunately returned in February 2020. “Unfortunately we lost him on the 6th of June in 2020, and that was obviously smack bang in the middle of Covid so we had restrictions with regards to his funeral service and wake.” So, a number of De La Rue’s friends and those connected to him through his community and business involvements opted to come together to remember him, enjoy a day on the course, and raise some money to go towards Flynn’s future pursuits. “Jeff and I approached Berwick Montuna Golf Club and they basically provided us with the venue and we put the wheels in motion to plan a golf event for late last year, but unfortunately Covid didn’t allow it so we postponed it until 12 March this year,” Stanton explained. “Ash was just one of these guys who was actively involved in a number of areas throughout the community, as well as being a construction manager at Mirvac. “He touched a lot of people in different ways, either by providing them with employment, or just being involved socially. Jeff and I decided that if we put a golf day together, we’d try and raise some money to put into a trust

Ash De La Rue’s brother-in-law Simon, his step-mother Anne, winners of the inaugural golf day Andrew Williams and Kris Fletcher, and Ash’s sister Sheridan and father, Dick. Picture: SUPPLIED account for Flynn that Ash’s sister Sheridan could manage. “It was just one of those things where the local guys wanted to do something to acknowledge the passing of Flynn’s dad Ashley and have this as an annual event.” About 140 people attended the golf day on Friday, with great mates and local footy figures Kris Fletcher and Andrew Williams emerging victorious. “Each year we’ll be running this tournament in Ash’s memory,” Stanton said. “We initially thought it’d just be a small group of people who put their hands up, but before you know it we sold out the whole

course and had people and sponsors come from everywhere. It was fantastic, and really touching. The family was present on Friday and they’ve been overwhelmed with the participation from the local community.” Stanton said De La Rue’s passing was a tragedy amongst a particularly tough 12 months for the whole community. “Local people really wanted to jump on board, and I guess it was partly their opportunity to come out of hibernation from the Covid pandemic - It was going to be a real celebration of Ash’s life,” he said. “Unfortunately we couldn’t do it late last year, but we made up for it on Friday.

“A lot of the people there were squeezed out of being at the funeral because the numbers had to be capped. It was the first time many of us were able to see each other since his passing.” The sponsors behind Friday’s event included: Cool Breeze Rentals, Borza Plumbing, Rochet Kitchens, Dahlsens, Climate Rental Solutions, Berwick Montuna Golf Club, Lumeah Landscapes, Easton Developments, The Wall Store, The Bottle-O (Pakenham), Boardpro, Gem Boom, De La Rue Landscapes, and the Bakof Group. Family in attendance included Ash’s father and step-mother, Dick and Anne, along with his sister Sheridan and her husband Simon.

The Warriors tip off a new Division 1 era in style By Russell Bennett The Pakenham Warriors started an exciting new era in Big V Division 1 women’s basketball in style on Sunday, recording a 10-point win on the road in their season opener. Traveling down to Somerville to take on Western Port, the new-look Warriors began strongly in the first quarter and survived a third term stumble to emerge victorious, 7161. The Warriors eclipsed the 20-point mark in three of the four quarters, enabling them to overcome scoring just five points in a scrappy third. Leading the way for coach Simo Pajdic’s group were Keeley Patterson, with 22 points on 8-12 from the field (including 6-9 from deep); and Sarah-Rae Slater with a 16-point, 10-rebound double-double. Overall, the Warriors shot an impressive 47.4 per cent from downtown. In the men’s Division 2 game at Wallan, however, Pakenham had its colours lowered by the Panthers 86-68 despite an encouraging start from the visitors. Ultimately, the Warriors had no answer for Wallan’s Sharif Black, who poured in a whop22 STAR NEWS

Thursday, 18 March, 2021

ping 40 points on better than 54 per cent shooting. Keenan Gorski and Dominic Bruno were great in support with 19 and 13 points respectively. For a new-look Pakenham, Alistair Parker led the way with a super-efficient 22 points on just 10 made field goals (to go along with his eight rebounds), while Nathan Dodgson added 18 points and 10 boards. In the curtain-raiser on Saturday night the Youth League 2 men’s clash - Pakenham got the better of Wallan in a nailbiter, 81-79. Leading the way for the Warriors in impressive fashion were Lauchlan Mark (24 points on 9-14 from the field) and Josh Norton (15 points), while Dylan Jenkinson (9 points and 8 boards) finished with a near double-double. The Warriors emerged strongly from the main break - outscoring the Panthers 52 to 37 in the second half. Finally, in their Youth League 2 women’s contest, the Warriors annihilated Western Port to the tune of 30 points, 81-51, off the back of a strong overall scoring contribution (14 points from Alahna Arnason, 13 apiece from Bethany Quadara and Christine Stiglich, and 10 from Katie Karajic Powell).

Alistair Parker drives to the hoop against Wallan star Sharif Black. Picture: COURTESY OF MATTYJ SPORTS PHOTOGRAPHY pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

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Pumas celebrate season It was a fantastic time had by all at the Pakenham Pumas Baseball Club Junior presentation events over the weekend, with the Under 16’s parents versus kids friendly on Saturday and the Junior and Little League NERF party at Starstruck Cheer and Dance. The teams have faced a challenging year this summer, but as always, have played in the best of team spirit and sportsmanship. The club is lucky to have a fabulous Pumas community with the coaches developing skills and friendships, parents and guardians helping in the canteen, scoring and umpiring throughout the season. Special mention to the trophy winners: Under 16s Coaches: Craig Willis and Anthony Clissold MVP: Kole Halupecki Coaches Award: Harrison Reid Best Team Player: Felicity Clissold Best Defensive Player : Chloe Woollard Special Award: Blake Halupeki Junior League Coaches: Travis Hough and Tim Cardell MVP: Jacob Batson Batting Award: Tristan White

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Team Player: Kaydence Mills-Emmer· Best son Little League Majors Coaches: Andy Mayberry and Bernie Tyers MVP: Titus Popstar Runner-Up MVP: Cydel Sekene Coaches Award: Josh Beetge Little League Minors Coaches: Greg McCormick and Darren Reeves Austin Reeves Eli McCormick Gideon McCormick Amelia Papazzo Cooper Papazzo Ethan Hallihan Lukos Popata Max Taylor Lily Mayberry Ben Kimmer Elijah Vizard Scorers: Amanda Hocking Vanessa Tyers Gemma McCormick Tuhi Ngaheu

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The Pakenham Pumas Junior League team.

The Pakenham Pumas Little League Majors team.

Under-16 Pakenham Pumas player Chloe Woollard with coach Craig Willis

Another century for Ash, a remarkable rise continues By Nick Creely The cautious leaving of the ball, the straight bat and the hard-running between the wickets, followed by a gradual increase in aggression and flamboyant strokeplay. It was a prototype Ashley Chandrasinghe knock that has been seen many times during his young career. Aside from a rock-solid technique, the young man also has plenty of pizzazz about his batting. There are few batsmen in Victorian Premier Cricket ranks that places a higher regard on their wicket - in fact, aside from Geelong star Eamonn Vines, no one has spent longer at the crease this season. It’s classical, pure top-order batting, focused on technique and concentration with the confidence that runs will come, and from a teenager, it could very well lead to higher honours in the not-too-distant future. Chandrasinghe’s second century of his career on Saturday against Ringwood in just his 19th first XI match was a beauty. He now has 809 runs at an average just over 50 in his stunning Premier Cricket career to date. Swans coach Brian Keogh couldn’t have higher praise for his emerging young star, describing the stylish left-hander as a ‘rare’ talent he hasn’t seen often in his cricketing life. “I don’t know if I know anybody, and it’d be very interesting to go back through the history books, whether anyone has come through the fourth XI and into the first XI, and in his first 19 games has opened the batting, made two centuries and averaging more than 50,” he said. “I’ve seen a lot of very good Premier batters average 40 and they’re absolute superstars, but he’s batting at the top of the list and already averages over 50. “It’s amazing.” Against an incredibly strong Ringwood bowling outfit, featuring Victorian quick Zak Evans, Chandrasinghe looked utterly unfazed. He took his time getting going as Lachie Sperling raced out of the blocks at the other end, and while the leftie stayed patient there was also an inevitably that it would eventually turn for him. The real shift in his game came when keeper bat Dev Pollock (82) arrived at the crease, and the pair soaked up pressure before realising the shackles with a cracking 147-run stand. Pollock playing the aggressor sent some stunning shots to the boundary, while Chandrasinghe continued to run hard and build his innings. When Pollock fell, Chris Benedek pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

Casey-South Melbourne opener Ashley Chandrasinghe made 103 not out on Saturday. 231267 crunched a brutal 19-ball 45, slapping four sixes in the process, while Chandrasinghe remained calm to bat through the innings and register an unbeaten 103 as the Swans racked up 3/271. His sequence to get to the century is an indication of his continual improvement, scooping one over short fine leg’s head for a boundary before a crisp drive for two down the ground brought about the three figure. It was, in Keogh’s mind, the complete batting performance from his young star, and a sign of things to come. “The three things that jump out is that we’re happy, we’re proud and we’re excited for him,” he said. “This year he’s learned some real tricks to his batting, like hitting balls over the top where it previously wasn’t part of his game.

“I think the next evolution is to score a bit quicker, and that’s continuing to learn where is single is and where his boundary is. “He’s almost a complete player now. He’s fit, he’s strong, and he’ll only get stronger.” Keogh said the club was quietly confident that he wasn’t far from securing a state contract with Victoria. “We’re hopeful to be honest, that there is a contract for him next season,” he said. Keogh also heaped praise on vice-captain Devin Pollock, who was all class in his knock of 82. “As good as Ashley was, Dev’s knock set the cornerstone to make that 270,” he said. “He’s been really frustrated about making starts, and that’s been the challenge for the batting group this season aside from Ashley. “Why people love playing cricket with

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS Dev, he’s just such a competitor and so determined, and once he got that start, he was as determined as I’ve seen him. “It was a hell of an innings. “We think he has capabilities to go to the next level - he’s made a lot of starts, and if he went on, he could 600, 700 runs, so if he converts more then who knows. “If they bring back the state second XI, we hope his name is up for consideration.” Despite the second-innings washout resulting in a draw, Keogh said that there was so much promise to take out of the clash for the rest of the year and into next season. “We were disappointed, but we take it as a small win,” he said. “It was the most complete batting performance of the season by far - all the things we talked about with our game plan we ticked.” Thursday, 18 March, 2021

STAR NEWS 23

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