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Arcade blaze suspicious: police
Windy week keeps SES on toes
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Level crossing removal steps up
A wound to salt By Gabriella Payne
Andrew Davey said that each lockdown has been harder and harder to recover from. 244894 “So as long as the face mask rule is in place we have to remain closed and there’s never any government support for that, we’re told that’s just the way it is.” Mr Davey said that before the pandemic began, he had plenty of work for himself and his nine staff but had been forced to cut his workforce back to three people, including himself, and the business was still struggling to stay afloat. “Financially, you can’t even describe it,” he said. “We’ve used all our savings, we’ve stripped our super, it’s been tough.
“We’ve been fortunate in that we have an extremely good landlord who has really helped us out, but we’ve still had to fight for every government grant that we’ve managed to get, nothing has come easy.” “The biggest thing is that the lockdowns get ended but we are still forced to remain closed,” Mr Davey explained. “When lockdown two was lifted, we were closed for over a month longer than everyone else.” Mr Davey said that while he understood the lockdowns were necessary, with such small capacity limits, his business was left “running at
Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS a loss” and it was really frustrating to see people jamming into cafes and flaunting the rules in other areas. “I just think we need to be more consistent about what can reopen,” he said. “Last lockdown I went up to Fountain Gate before we could reopen, and I saw some cafes that were jam-packed. “There was somewhere between 50-100 people crammed into a smaller space than my centre, and we have a sterile environment with really good Covid practices and we can’t open, but that’s deemed safe? It’s just really frustrating,” he said. 12497982-JW24-21
When Melbourne’s fifth lockdown was lifted recently, many small businesses breathed a sigh of relief at the news - but for those in the wellness industry, many have been left struggling to hang on. Andrew Davey owns and operates a salt therapy centre, Salts of the Earth, in Narre Warren South and said his business had suffered greatly and felt the detrimental impacts of each Covid lockdown. “I can’t even believe we’ve still survived,” Mr Davey said. “I know a few businesses in my network that are just about done, which is really sad to see, but I’ve got to recover, I’ve got no option,” he said. While many businesses have been able to return to some form of normality in the past few weeks, Mr Davey said that it was a totally different ball game for businesses in the wellness industry, as they often had much stricter regulations they had to adhere to - and the masks were proving particularly tricky when it came to salt therapy. For those unfamiliar with the treatment, salt therapy is a natural remedy that involves inhaling pharmaceutical-grade dry salt in a comfortable controlled environment - a therapeutic way of soothing a long list of skin, respiratory and lifestyle conditions. As patients sit back and relax, a special machine called a halogenerator disperses microscopic salt particles into the room, which they then breathe deep into their airways to help with things like asthma, emphysema and a host of other conditions - but in Covid times, this poses a unique hurdle for the business to overcome. “We’re such a small industry and we don’t have a classification as such, so we’ve been grouped in with the wellness industry, but our clients have to have their face masks off for the treatment to be beneficial, because you need to be able to breath in the salt,” he explained.
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Recycling truck fire A recycling truck has had to dump its load in Officer after a fire broke out in the back of the truck. The CFA attend the scene and found the fire was caused by non-recyclable items which had been incorrectly disposed of, including electrical items (small appliances, light fittings and wires), paint, wood, plastic bags and soft toys. Fortunately, no one was hurt and the site has now been cleaned up. Cardinia Shire Council wants to remind residents that putting the correct items in kerbside bins not only helps the environment but also ensures the safety of others and public property.
E-waste is banned from Victorian landfill which means it can’t go into any household bins. To dispose of hazardous items such as household chemicals, visit Sustainability Victoria’s website for information on their free Detox Your Home drop-off services. If you have a fireplace or fire pit, please ensure the ashes are completely extinguished before placing them in your garbage bin. For more information about how you can correctly dispose of common household items, visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/atozwasteguide.
$60m, she’ll be apples An Officer apple orchard has been sold for $60 million. Star News understands that Bon View Apple Orchard was sold in May this year and was the last farm to be bought for housing development on Browns Road. Former Bendigo Bank and Coliban Water director Don Erskine, along with a business partner, bought the land. The 31.4 hectare site at 373 and 405 Browns Road could make way for about 400 lots, RPM selling agent Zaynoun Melhem told realestatesource.com.au. The sale follows the April sale of 3.56ha of land in Officer which was bought by Satterley for $11.26m. That land is believed to be able to accommodate approximately 110 dwellings.
Bon View Apple Orchard on Browns Road Officer North has been sold. 244986
$1m winner
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Thursday, 5 August, 2021
A Pakenham man is $1 million richer after winning Monday’s Lotto. He held one of the two division one winning entries nationally in Monday and Wednesday Lotto draw 4100 on Monday 2 August. The jubilant man plans to use his prize to pay off his mortgage, do some renovations, buy himself a boat and go on a few holidays. When an official from The Lott called the winner this morning, he was completely oblivious he’d become an overnight millionaire thanks to his division one win. “What!? I had no idea! Well, isn’t this a lovely surprise,” he laughed after a moment of silence. “This is unbelievable! What!? I just can’t believe it. I feel like jumping up and down and screaming right now.” The man had been in and out of work and doing it tough lately, so said the timing couldn’t be better. “This changes everything for me! It’s the best news I could have hoped for,” he said. “I can’t wait to tell my family and go out for a nice lunch to celebrate! They are going to be so excited. “I can’t explain how much this means to me. I recently was considering making some tough changes in my life, but now, that doesn’t have to happen!” he laughed. “So I’ll pay the mortgage, and I’d really like to do a few things around the house, make some upgrades. “No doubt there will be a few holidays, and I might even get myself a boat for some big fishing trips!” pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
Firm nails big defence job A Pakenham-based defence supplier has won an historic $35 million contract to refurbish and upgrade the Australian Defence Force’s helmets. Aquaterro, which recently moved from Dandenong to Pakenham, was announced as the winner of the contract on Tuesday 27 July. The five-year deal with Aquaterro will create 10 highly skilled, technical jobs at the company. It is the first time the tiered combat helmet built by United States company Team Wendy has been refurbished outside the US. The helmet provides the men and women of the Australian Defence Force with protection against ballistic, fragmentation and blunt force trauma, incorporating a ballistic protection shell, suspension and retention systems, and accessory mounts and rails. In a statement, Aquaterro said the contract to refurbish the helmets reflected the confidence that the Federal Government has in Aquaterro’s capabilities. “As a leading provider of soldier and officer worn and carried equipment, Aquaterro is steadfast in its continual strategic investment in product design, development, testing and production capabilities,” the statement read. “Aquaterro’s commitment to investment in these critical capabilities continues to be evident through its significant expansion across multiple fronts, including recruitment of technical specialists and investment in dedicated infrastructure for the future, long-term commitment of Self-Protection Personal Equipment research and development.” Minister for Defence Industry Melissa Price congratulated Aquaterro for winning the contract, which has seen it establish Australia’s first combat helmet refurbishment and upgrade program. “This program will extend the life of the Australian Defence Force’s existing fleet of tiered combat helmets by five years, and most importantly, will ensure our soldiers are protected on operations,” Ms Price said. “Companies like Aquaterro are building robust domestic supply chains that we can rely on. “Aquaterro’s work in establishing this program will help ensure the ADF has the best available capability to defend Australia and its national interests.”
Prime Minister Scott Morrison with Graeme Bulte of Aquaterro and La Trobe MP Jason Wood at Aquaterro’s headquarters in May. 238267 And Aquaterro has wasted no time in getting to work; with the majority of required spare parts manufactured in Australia, work on the helmets started in July at Aquaterro’s purpose-built facility in Pakenham. Also this month, Aquaterro officially announced the completion of ‘Building 2’ of its Aquaterro Defence Precinct in Pakenham. This dedicated Integrated Soldier Systems Centre on over 3000m2 of industrial land is adjacent to the company’s 6500m2 headquarters, which will accommodate the Armour Technical Inspection and Refurbishment Workshop. Prime Minister Scott Morrison toured Aquaterro’s headquarters in May where he was among the first to see the new Combat Ballistic Helmet Technical Inspection and Refurbishment process, now operating within Building 2. Member for La Trobe Jason Wood welcomed the contract signing. “This major contract should give Aquaterro the confidence to invest in its business in the future, while importantly supporting local jobs throughout La Trobe,” he said.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison visited Aquaterro in May with La Trobe MP Jason Wood. 238267
‘About time,’ Battin says of level crossing removals Gembrook MP Brad Battin has welcomed the State Government’s announcement that two level crossings in Beaconsfield will be removed. On Thursday 29 July, the Government announced the crossings on Station Street and Brunt Road would be removed by 2025. Mr Battin said the removals were the culmination of “years of campaigning from the community”. “Residents have frustratingly been crying out for Beaconsfield’s level crossings to be upgraded for several years to keep up with the area’s development - until now Labor has ignored them,” he said. Mr Battin said he had continued raising the issue in Parliament, citing safety concerns for drivers and pedestrians at the crossings, especially at Brunt Road. He accused the State Government of playing politics, “forcing Beaconsfield residents to wait until another state election before works would be completed, with Beaconsfield being left last for the project on
Brunt Road level crossing in Beaconsfield. Picture: DANIELLE KUTCHEL the Pakenham line.” Seventeen level crossings on the Pakenham Line have either already been removed, are under construction, or are in early works for removal. As well as the removals of Station Street and Brunt Road Beaconsfield, the State Government said it would get rid of the level
crossing at Webb Street, Narre Warren while the crossings at Station Street, Officer and Progress Street, Dandenong South will be closed. This will bring the total number of level crossings removed on the Pakenham line to 22, making it level crossing free. Initial assessments suggest the most likely design to remove the Brunt Road and Station Street level crossings will be a road bridge over the rail line. Webb Street, Narre Warren will most likely be a hybrid solution, which will lower Webb Street and raise the rail line. But while Mr Battin welcomed the level crossing removals, he said he was outraged an upgrade for Beaconsfield Railway Station has been left off the cards. The Liberal Party committed to the project at the 2018 election. “I’ve had so many from the community calling for the urgent need of an upgrade for Beaconsfield Station, not only for toilet facili-
ties but a number of people living with a disability needing shelter on the platform where they wait to board the train,” he said. “Labor is again ignoring the needs of the Beaconsfield community, making them wait till last for the upgrades of their crossings and leaving them without a new station.” Minister for Transport Infrastructure Jacinta Allan hit back at the Liberal Party’s track record on public transport. “The Victorian Liberals have committed to slashing infrastructure spending and didn’t remove a single level crossing on the Pakenham line – we are getting rid of all 22 of them,” she said. “We’re reducing congestion, improving safety and importantly - creating a level crossing-free Pakenham line for faster, more reliable services.” According to the State Government, the level crossing removals in Beaconsfield do not preclude a future upgrade to Beaconsfield station.
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Tommy Brown beginning his 21km run. 245689
Steve waves to the camera. 245689
Lauren Brown enjoys the sun on her marathon run. 245689
Aaron and Archie. 245689
The extended friends and family who participated in the Run for Don event. 245689
Don starts a movement By Shelby Brooks Family and friends of a Pakenham man who was killed earlier this year on HealesvilleKooweerup Road have raised over $6000 in his honour. Don Brown of Pakenham lost his life a week after he was hit by a car while riding his Vespastyle scooter on Healesville-Kooweerup Road Tuesday 9 February. Don’s family came together on Saturday 31 July to walk and run around Lakeside Lake, Pakenham to raise $6,400 for the Don Brown Foundation. In conjunction with the Royal Melbourne Hospital where Don was cared for after the accident, Don’s family created the Don Brown Foundation to provide access to educational courses and seminars for ICU workers. The money raised from Saturday will go towards covering the cost of the first seminar for ICU staff. “It was a tough day but a really really good day,” Don’s son Tommy said. When asked if it was tough physically or emotionally, Tommy said, “all the above”. “We had to dig into some dark places to get it done.” Tommy completed a 21km run around Pakenham while the rest of the family did smaller walks around the lake. “It was really humbling to see how many people were down there and how many helped, including local businesses,” Tommy said. “There was a really good feeling in the air.” He described how the man who passed on vital dash cam footage to police participated in the run as well. “It’s touching. The Pakenham community can get a bad rap sometimes but it was beautiful to see them all come together for Dad,” Tommy said. 4 STAR NEWS
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Thursday, 5 August, 2021
Don Brown’s family. Mikaela, Emily, Lauren, Tommy, Katie with Jackson and Archie in front. 245689
Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
Workers and tenants gather at police tape to try assess the damage of their businesses. 246100 Police also block off Treloar Lane. 246100
Police tape has blocked access to the footpath outside the Centre Court Arcade on Main Street. 246100
Suspicious fire in arcade By Shelby Brooks Shop owners, tenants and passerbys all stopped at police tape on Pakenham’s Main Street and Treloar Lane Tuesday 3 August to sneak a peak at the fire damage within Centre Court Arcade. Pakenham CIU Detective Senior Constable Osborne said one shop was “pretty much destroyed“, with the next door hairdresser suffering some damage and the opposite shop also suffering damage. From what the Gazette could tell, the Centre Court Book Exchange appeared to suffer considerable damage, particularly to the books left outside the shop. “As is the case with fire in a confined space, the heat broke glass and windows,“ Detective Osborne told the Gazette. “I’d imagine the arcade will be locked up for some time pending repair.“ Detective Osborne said a worker in the main street notified emergency services after hearing an alarm go off around 4am. “He heard an alarm which was going off in the chemist and he went to check it out when he saw the smoke,“ she said. The fire started in the rear of the arcade, closer to the Treloar Lane end and it was extinguished by emergency services, leaving extensive damage to several shops and the ceiling of the arcade. When asked about the claims from other news outlets which were reporting that tenants had complained about switchboard and light faults the night before, Detective Osborne brushed the suggestion off. “We’re not looking at any type of fault,“ she said. “The fire is being treated as suspicious.“ Detective Osborne explained that roller doors lock both sides of the arcade after
Damage to Centre Court Book Exchange. 246100 hours to prevent any foot traffic from passing through. “There wasn’t any system to it exactly,“ she said.
Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS “Just whoever was first in for the day would unlock them and whoever last to leave close them.“ Anyone with information, or who saw any
suspicious activity around the area Monday 2 August into the early hours of Tuesday 3 August is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report at crimestoppersvic.com.au.
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OPINION
Car show cancelled
LENSCAPE
By Danielle Kutchel The Akoonah Park Men’s Shed has postponed its annual car show, Classics in the Park. The beloved event was set to be held on Sunday 24 October. It’s a regular feature on the Berwick calendar and raises funds for charitable causes like the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia. The Men’s Shed Committee said while the situation was regrettable, they hope to reschedule the event for October 2022. Any queries can be sent to the secretary at akoonahmensshed@hotmail.com
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For 92 Saturdays, weather permitting, members of the Casey Cardinia 4 Refugees group have stood in solidarity at the traffic lights in Berwick for one hour. We know that in other towns, committed supporters are doing the same, standing against the cruelty, loss of freedom and persecution that this government is inflicting on innocent people, innocent young men. For eight years - eight long years, eight devastatingly long years of cruelty, isolation, detention, loss of freedom and loss of life. Eight long years! Standing silently, placards in hand all we ask is that people toot/honk their support of the refugees. We get a lot of support, a lot of horn blowing, however, we also get a small amount of abuse and I wonder why? What is it that makes a person, generally a male, yell abuse to women standing silently in solidarity with the incarceration of innocent men? Some of the abuse is mild, middle finger salutes are regular reminders that not all people
have compassionate hearts, however, some abuse is much more aggressive, some abuse includes men yelling at us that we need to get a job or get a life or get f…. d. One particularly horrid man told me that he hoped a refugee raped my daughter. What makes a person drive on by? How does one look away from the inhumanity and the persecution we are inflicting on these desperate men, young men so desperate that they are now on their second hunger strike? What will it take for some humanity to seep into the deep dark depths of the deep dark shrivelled up souls of those who walk on by, or drive on by. I cry tears of grief and I weep tears of shame for what you are all doing in the name of all Australians. Here we are on day 16 of the second hunger strike of 12 Medevac Refugees from MITA. How do any of you sleep at night knowing full well that these Medevac refugees at the Melbourne Immigration Transit Accommodation (MITA) are refusing to eat, preferring death than life? These are also young men, in their 30s, all who have a life to give to Australia, I am sure they have skills that would be useful to us as
Thumbs up For school camp going ahead.
Thumbs down To NSW, if only they followed our lockdowns they wouldn’t be where they are now.
Thumbs up To United service stations in Cranbourne for not putting petrol prices up like others.
Thumbs down To Dandenong hospital, for not letting me visit my mum!
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.
Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS
we rebuild our economy following Covid. What will it be that stops this cruelty, will an election stop it? Next Saturday, weather permitting, we will once again be standing at the traffic lights in solidarity. Why not swing on by and give us a toot/honk for these desperate men? Cheryl Billing-Smith, Pakenham
Tiger sightings needed Have you seen a Tasmanian Tiger in this catchment in the past few years? Please call 0434 904 944 - I am an independent searcher/researcher. Just a quick thank you to the Cranbourne Star News for its leadership on this issue. Michael Moss
Still junketting? I wonder how many junket trips the Casey Council have been on since they got sacked. Just asking. D Gardner, Hampton Park
SOCIALLY SPEAKING On Saturday 31 July, a story was shared to the Star News Facebook page regarding Casey Council successfully lobbying the State Government for extra time for residents to have their say on the proposed design of the level crossing removal at Camms Road. Here’s how our readers responded: Kellie Banks: I’m not sure why the council have said something now. There was a large sign up on the fence about it being removed almost two years ago and when looking online it was always car bridge over rail. Chris Mcphee: It’s already started so why now bit late. John Veldwyk: Dumbest idea ever. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
John McMahon, pictured in 2011. 66533
Rev avoids jail in WA By Danielle Kutchel A Casey motivational speaker has avoided jail after flouting WA’s quarantine laws. John McMahon, known as ‘The Rev’ and for his work with youth organisation Motov8, appeared in Perth Magistrates Court on Friday 23 July after being charged with one count of giving false or misleading information, and two counts of failing to comply with a direction. The former school chaplain flew into Perth in June after giving a presentation in Queensland and then driving back to Victoria via New South Wales. Upon entering WA, McMahon was told to self-quarantine for 14 days – but when officers went to check where he was staying, he wasn’t there. McMahon instead held presentations in Rockingham and Fremantle before being arrested by police. Police alleged he also gave false information when entering WA, stating that he had not travelled further than 30km from his home before flying west.
He pleaded guilty to all three charges and was refused bail at a court appearance on Friday 25 June. Bail was granted after a further appearance on Thursday 8 July, subject to a number of conditions. Appearing for sentencing on Friday 23 July, McMahon’s lawyer Damien Cripps said his client had not self-isolated in part because he hadn’t paid attention to what he was told at the airport. But Magistrate Evan Shackleton heard McMahon had made a number of Facebook posts expressing disdain for Covid restrictions. Mr Shackleton said it appeared that McMahon had “arrived in WA with an attitude of complete defiance”. The Facebook posts have since been deleted. Mr Shackleton accepted that McMahon felt remorseful about his behaviour and no longer held the views he had expressed on Facebook. McMahon received an eight-month suspended sentence and was fined $5000 for providing false information.
State Champions: Eager to compete at the upcoming Sport Aerobics Nationals are St Paul’s students (Back L-R) Ella Black, Charlotte Kovacs, Mya McFarlane, Chloe Hannath, Madeline Williams, Charlotte Fraser, Harri Parkinson, Holly Norris, Lucy McKenzie, Georgia Cumming; (Middle L-R) Maggie Dargan, Amity Hunter, Tayla Clark, Megan Lambert, Sienna Christian, Dempsey Sederlan, Jorgia Neyland; (Front L-R) Coaches Jemma Douglas and Bella Fraser.
After months of early morning training, two Sport Aerobics teams from St Paul’s Anglican Grammar School recently returned home as State Champions after winning their divisions at the recent School Aerobics State Final held at The Arena in Geelong. As State Champions, teams The Saintly Ladies and The Saintly Angels have both qualified to compete at the national championships. As the largest Sport Aerobic competition in Australia, School Aerobics is open to both primary and secondary students, proving to be a popular co-curricular activity over the years. The girls have worked extremely hard over the last few months being coached and mentored by past St Paul’s students and Alumnae, Jemma Douglas and Bella Fraser, who have both experienced the thrill of pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
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State winners at St Paul’s competing at the nationals. The girls and coaches are delighted about the results and effort each and every student has put in. In a combined statement, Bella Fraser (Coach) and Tayla Clark (Year 8 Saintly Angels) said, “After an amazing day of competing at the Geelong Arena, we were ecstatic to hear both our aerobics teams had won gold in their sections to become state champions. This great result comes from training hard all year and being committed to improving strength, fitness and routines. We are very proud of our achievements and thankful for the opportunity to go to the nationals.” The St Paul’s students are eager to pursue their potential at the School Aerobics Australian National Championships on Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 August at the Gold Coast Convention Centre in Queensland. Thursday, 5 August, 2021
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STAR NEWS 7
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Windy week for the SES By Gabriella Payne Melbourne’s windy, wintery weather has kept the Pakenham SES crew on their toes recently, as many locals found themselves in a spot of trouble and in need of assistance over the past week. The storm that swept through the suburbs on Wednesday 28 and Thursday 29 July saw our SES volunteers attend 33 separate cries for help in the Cardinia Shire region, and another wild weather event kept them busy over the weekend as well. Pakenham SES spokesperson, Shayne Honey, said that it had been a gusty week to say the least, with many trees and branches coming down. “A week of high winds has kept our volunteers busy this week,“ Mr Honey said. “We’ve spent many hours securing loose objects and making temporary repairs from trampolines and sheds blown onto and over fences and houses.“ Mr Honey said that crews had been called “to a handful of building damage jobs“ after the first storm passed through, where house tiles had come off in the high winds. Not one, but two large, lightweight trampolines were also caught up in the windy weather, with Mr Honey confirming that one had been blown onto the train tracks - but by the time SES crews arrived, it had blown off again. The other trampoline had blown over a fence, striking a neighbour’s roof in the process. Mr Honey said that while the SES volunteers had done a great job in helping locals and clearing up after the storms, the strong winds had been a timely reminder for everyone to ensure all items on properties remained securely fastened down. “This is a reminder to make sure when wind warnings are issued in our district, that
Mr Honey said the SES volunteers had done a great job of clearing up after the weather had passed.
A crumpled shed, battered by the storm. residents secure all loose items on their properties,“ he said. “Thoug h we can make temporary repairs, there is a cost to homeowners and the public.“ “Well done to our crews! Great work.“
The windy weather saw a few large trampolines go for a spin, with one landing on the train tracks. Pictures: SUPPLIED, SES
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Pakenham CFA undergoes facelift
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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The storm saw many trees and branches come down, blocking roads in the process.
Volunteers attended calls for help both at night and during the day. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
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A recent wheat bag fire in Melbourne’s outer suburbs has prompted CFA firefighters to remind Victorians of the potential fire risks involved with heating and using therapeutic wheat packs. Last week, firefighters from Edithvale Fire Brigade responded to a wheat bag fire in Aspendale Gardens. Upon arriving on scene, breathing apparatus crews entered the smoke-filled house and located the wheat bag inside the microwave. The wheat bag was quickly extinguished, and the fire was safely contained to within the microwave. Crews used positive pressure ventilation to clear the smoke from the two-storey home. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said it was a timely reminder during these cooler months for people to take care when using wheat bags. “Wheat bags are a popular choice for keeping people warm, but they have been linked to some fires and burns,” he said. “Constant use can result in the reduction of the moisture content of the wheat, causing it to overheat and result in a fire or burns. “We urge people to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and not to overheat them.” For more information about smoke alarms, visit cfa.vic.gov.au/silenceisdeadly
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KINDNESS IS KEY - LOCAL FAVOURITE - BE KIND COMMUNITY - KINDNESS IS KEY - LOCAL FAVOURITE - BE KIND COMMUNITY - KINDNESS IS KEY
They say everyone has one book in them – and for one Clyde North man that book is now out and in the hands of bookworms around the world. Nathan Bone has just published his first novella, ‘Night of Deceit’, after taking inspiration from a Dungeons and Dragons campaign that he wrote and played with a group of friends. The novella follows a group of guests, all of whom know each other in various ways, who attend a party in their honour. The guests soon learn that their host has other plans for them – and the story takes a thrilling turn. Nathan said he had long thought about putting pen to paper and had played around with different ideas in the past, but hadn’t fully committed to any of them until now. With Night of Deceit now officially out there for all to read, he’s already planning a number of sequels to bring the series to a total of four books. Now able to add ‘author’ to his name, Nathan said the accomplishment was “one of the most thrilling parts” of his life. “I am thoroughly enjoying hearing feedback from those that have read my book,” he said. The process wasn’t without its challenges, of course. Being self-published means it’s up to Nathan to spot any errors in the text, from plot
holes to typos. Then there was the need to make sure what he was writing was interesting to readers as well. “Writing the story itself is probably the easiest part,” he said. “One of the biggest challenges … is making sure that the content of the story would be thrilling to read from cover to cover; ensuring that the reader will want to keep reading, even in the slower points of the story.” All up, the writing process took him about four months thanks to the head start of having already written the bare bones for Dungeons and Dragons. This was followed by another four months of adjusting and editing, the author explained. “Juggling everyday work and responsibilities certainly impacted this time,” he said. But it’s worth it now to see his dream in print. Nathan encouraged other budding writers to follow their passion too. “Keep writing and don’t rush,” he advised. “Sometimes, taking a break for a day or a month can help you come up with the best way to write your story.” Night of Deceit is available on Amazon.com as a paperback and as an eBook. It is also available for free on the Kindle Unlimited subscription service. To find out more about Nathan and his works, follow ‘Nathan Bone, Author’ on Facebook and Instagram.
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Nathan Bone, now a published author, with his novella ‘Night of Deceit’. 245192 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS
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Live performance ignited once again By Gabriella Payne
namic live-music series.“ Six individual performances are featured in the series, including solo artists Sasha Rechichi, Lucienne Wynne, Luro and James Franklin, as well as two five-piece bands, The Lost Anchors and Strawbz. Mr Byers said that the performances had
been well received and it was great to see a wide range of people tuning in to each set. “Individual artists videos were launched on Saturday July 31 with many people tuning in to enjoy the performances online and support each act who took to the stage showcasing their musical talents,“ he said.
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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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Another local band, the Lost Anchors, performing on the weekend.
Five-piece band Strawbz took to the stage over the weekend and delighted audience members. Pictures: HARRISON ASHFORD PHOTOGRAPHY
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Solo artist James Franklin performing at 2021 Ignite Uncancelled.
The on-again off-again Covid lockdowns have made life incredibly difficult for those in the music industry, but a group of local musicians ignited the flame of live performance once again over the weekend, as they took to the virtual stage. The 2021 ’Ignite Uncancelled’ youth festival may have looked a little different to what was originally planned, but in true performance style, organisers adapted the event to ensure that the show could go on despite the adversities they faced. Four local solo artists and two five-piece bands were featured in this year’s online festival, showcasing some of the best youth talent in the local music scene. The performances, which were launched online on Saturday 31 July, were pre-recorded as a “live music series“ in case of another snap lockdown, and remain up and available for audience members to enjoy from the comfort of their own homes. One of the organisers of the event, Phil Byers, said that after the turbulent year those in the music industry had faced, it was great to feature some of the incredible young talents in our own backyard. “Ignite Youth projects like ’Uncancelled 2021’ are all about creating opportunities to learn, to connect and to showcase emerging talent both on and off the stage,“ Mr Byers said. “We recently assembled a team of local young artists and team of creatives to develop a fantastic collaboration and produce a dy-
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Live music lovers still have a chance to catch all the sets at the Ignite Youth Festival website.
Hills talent Luro serenaded everyone with her powerful voice.
“Youth-led projects like this are exciting to see come together, from designing the technical requirements and working with selected musicians to create an important opportunity to celebrate the creative journey.“ Mr Byers said that this event had been made possible thanks to the efforts of many local organisations and people, and a special shout out needed to go to Charlee Tjepkema, for her “superstar efforts“ in MC-ing, producing and pulling the whole event together. He also thanked Blaise Cosme from OBG Productions, a young musician who founded the Ignite initiative and the Cardinia Shire Council for all their support. Each young performer’s set is available online and can be viewed via Ignite’s Facebook, Instagram and YouTube pages. Head to www.ignitefestival.com.au for the links or more information.
The guitarists from Strawbz jamming out on stage.
Lucienne Wynne wowed audiences with her acoustic set.
It was great to see musicians getting back to what they love after a difficult year.
Sasha Rechichi opened the night with her stunning vocals.
Pakenham songstress Sasha Rechichi lit up the stage. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
The drummer from the Lost Anchors getting into the beat.
Local band Strawbz having a blast on stage. Pictures: HARRISON ASHFORD PHOTOGRAPHY Thursday, 5 August, 2021
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STAR NEWS 11
FOCUS ON … SENIORS ENJOYING LIFE
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Joanne started the business back in 2008 and her son Ray joined the team in 2016.
Take a break and get on your local guided tour today
Marketing should not be considered an expense, rather an investment.
The purpose of marketing What is marketing? These days the term gets mixed up with public relations, digital marketing, social media etc and so it is not uncommon for many businesses to believe that marketing means a flashy website and/or a social media presence on one or more platforms such as Facebook, LinkedIn or Instagram to name just a few. Whilst these mechanisms certainly all have a place, there really is no one size fits all solution here and to be effective, it is important to understand four key things: 1. What do I want to achieve through my marketing? 2. What message do I need to send? 3. What are the most appropriate channels for me to disseminate the message? 4. What is my budget and expected return on investment? Let’s deal with these in order. For most businesses, the Wikipedia definition of marketing typically applies, that is: “the action or business of promoting and selling products or services, including market research and advertising”. The majority of business owners will enlist marketing to enable more sales and hence income, but there may be other reasons to undertake this such as promotion of an event, build market presence or enhance brand image for example. Regardless of the reason, it is important to quantify the expected outcome in measurable terms so that you can determine whether the marketing initiative(s) is/are successful or not and hence see whether the technique would be useful to continue to use in the future. Knowing what specific message you want to send is actually the most important part of the process and not as easy to do as it may seem. A core concept in marketing is “the hook” which is the bit that’s going to attract the attention in the first place. Since the average attention span for consumers has dropped from 12 to around eight seconds, it is vital that your message is succinct and engaging. Once you have engaged, you would then be looking for the recipient to 12 STAR NEWS
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Thursday, 5 August, 2021
Wanting to get out of your house, take in some new sights, meet some new, like minded people, enjoy some good food and good times, well then it sounds like you need Tour Local. Shrug off the doom and gloom of Covid-19 with an over 50s one day tour, matinee theatre tour, extended tours throughout Victoria and interstate or hop on a foodie and wine tour. Tour Local operations manager Ray Staindl said no matter which destination you choose or how long you’re gone for, sometimes a holiday is just what the doctor ordered. “We believe that in these Covid Times, being able to get away for a little holiday - even just a day - can make such a big difference,” he said. The 13 year old family business has just acquired a new, luxury 41 seat bus to add to their luxury 25 and 15 seat buses for the ultimate ex-
perience in comfort. Ray and the team pride themselves on their quality of tours and have been recognised in both the 2017 and 2019 Casey-Cardinia Business Awards for best Home Based Business. But most importantly, they pride themselves on giving people experiences of a lifetime, where they get to have fun along the way. “We believe every time someone embarks on a tour with us, they are embarking on a journey; every journey with us is an experience; and every experience becomes a memory - we are all about creating lasting memories here at Tour Local.” Tour Local can be found at 23 Meeking Drive Pakenham from 9am to 4pm. To make a tour booking, email bookings@tourlocal.com. au or call 5941 8800.
TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS IAN ASH take some kind of action leading to purchasing your product or service. Next time you watch the adverts on television, ask yourself whether it is clear whether the next action they require you to take is clear or not. If not, chances are that the advertising won’t be as effective as it should be. Where you place your (effective) marketing message has a dramatic impact on the results you can expect, a bit like throwing good seed on poor soil. This is why it is well worth thinking about where your target audience is most likely to show up and be active. Mum and Dad businesses may well gain traction by posting on social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram whereas bigger businesses are more likely to be active on LinkedIn or more public forums like radio and television. Of course posting advertisements online or in print via the Star Newspaper Group should enable widespread visibility of whatever it is you wish to promote as well. Some may disagree with me, but for me, marketing should be thought of as an investment not an expense. So, if the intent of your marketing is to increase sales, then unless your return on investment is greater than your marketing expense, why on earth would you do it? This is where defining a marketing budget and being able to track the financial impact of the marketing initiative itself really matters. There is no fixed percentage return to be achieved but you should define what you require at the start of the process. Ian Ash ACC, AInstIB Managing Director OrgMent Business Solutions - www.ombs.com.au
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Performers are ready sic radio play. A group of distinguished actors double-up on roles, create live sound effects and perform classic soap commercials. The audience is an important part of the action, playing the guests at a ball and applauding on cue. Set against the American CivilWar, Gone with the Wind is the stirring story of Scarlett O’Hara and her romance with the debonair Rhett Butler. The story has intrigued several generations since the book was first published, and the 1939 movie is still the highest grossing
film of all time. The Lux Radio Theatre company has become an audience favourite. Beginning with a series of productions at Arts Centre Melbourne, the company has toured widely in Victoria and Queensland. Cardinia Cultural Centre’s morning entertainment program, titled Sip and See, invites audiences to go along, sip on a cuppa, nibble on a scone and see a fantastic program of quality performances and theatre experiences.
Tickets are $22 per person and includes morning tea. Complimentary carer tickets are available when accompanying a client and on presentation of a Companion Card. To see what’s on or to book a ticket, visit the Cardinia Cultural Centre website www.cardiniaculturalcentre.com.au or phone the Box Office on 1300 887 624. Cardinia Shire Council is proud to present Cardinia Cultural Centre’s morning entertainment program for 2021.
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Performers are ready to hit the stage again at Cardinia Cultural Centre for audiences to enjoy this month. The stage is set for the CCC’s theatre to reopen to the public following the short COVID-19 lockdown, starting with the ever-popular Lux Radio Theatre on Wednesday 18 August at 10am, part of the Centre’s Sip and See morning entertainment program. The perennial favourite Gone with the Wind will be performed on stage as a clas-
The Lux Radio Theatre company has become an audience favourite
They say practice makes perfect, and we’ve built enough homes to fill the MCG almost 6 times over. In a little under 20 years and a little over 20 downsizer communities later, we’ve built close to 3,000 homes for our 3,987 happy homeowners. In our southeast communities alone, our 1,091 beautiful homes cover a total of 125,491 square metres. This means there are 1,517 happy homeowners living in the most rapidly growing area of the southeast corridor. Lifestyle Meridian will be built on a strong foundation of experience, innovation and expertise.
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Thursday, 5 August, 2021
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STAR NEWS 13
THE LOWDOWN Q&A
with Jan Gilchrist, CEO of Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre
Tell us a fun fact about yourself? I have had more medical operations over my life than most people. I’m missing many parts of my body. What three words would your friends use to describe you? Honest, determined, and will put everyone before myself. What has been your most memorable moment? Two grandsons born three weeks apart during lockdown in 2020 and restricted on being able to see them. I won’t forget that. Who is your biggest inspiration? No one person in particular. My family, my mother and father in particular, taught me to be respectful, honest and hardworking. If you had to compete on MasterChef, what dish would you cook? Jelly slice is my signature dish. If you were Prime Minister for a day, what would be the first thing you would do? Review Centrelink and Department of Family Fairness and Housing, and the Education Department and wasting of money in the hospital systems. So much I would want to do, a day would never be enough. What is your favourite holiday destination? Northern Queensland or cruising on a ship anywhere warm. How do you like to relax? Everyone knows that I knit, crochet and do anything craft to relax. Not enough hours in the day for it all. Why is early childhood education so important? They are the future for us and one day they will be making the decisions of the country/world. They need to be brought up with good morals, have respect for older people and people in authority, be honest and be children allowed
THREE … ways to substitute in sweet potato
1
Baked potato Usually a traditional white potato does the trick for a delicious baked potato, but why not try the same idea but with a sweet potato? You can add a little ricotta cheese for a silky texture and rich flavor without needing a tonne of butter. Still top with your favourites like coleslaw, sour cream and cheese.
2
Cracker Cut sweet potato into thin to medium slices and bake until tender but still firm. Smear with cream cheese and add smoked salmon for a great finger or party food idea. Pear and honey with cream cheese is also a nice flavour combination with sweet potato.
3
Mash Mash potato can’t be improved too much more from the delicious side it is, but why not try a sweet potato mash for a change? It can be exceptional with a spoonful of goat cheese or cream cheese.
Jan Gilchrist, CEO at Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre. 245015 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS to be children, playing in the mud, being daredevils and not joined to electronic devices for entertainment all the time, being creative and using the brain to think not a calculator or a computer for everything. What do you love about Cranbourne/Casey? I don’t live in the City of Casey as I have
bought my retirement home looking over water. That was always my dream. However I did once live in Casey and the number of shopping centres local to all parts of the Casey area gives you so much choice. People know that Spotlight is my favourite store - two of them in Casey!
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Off-leash fun for dogs By Danielle Kutchel In July, Casey’s pooches got a new place to play with the opening of the Casey Fields Dog Park. The modern space has all the amenities a hound could howl for: it’s fenced off with double entrance gates for safety, obstacles to explore and even a sheltered seating area for visitors to relax on away from the elements. Star News Group ‘pup-arazzo’ STEWART CHAMBERS dropped in to hear the tail...
Lachlan with his dog Duke visit the park. 246113
Lachlan and Duke take a walk. 246113
The entrance to the dog park. 246113
Sniff out the best spots. 246113
Plenty of space. 246113
Obstacles to explore. 246113
Sheltered seating to stay out of the elements. 246113
Inspire your doggo’s curiosity... 246113 pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
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STAR NEWS 17
SPORT
Warriors in great return By David Nagel Pakenham Warriors have wasted no time in reasserting themselves as a genuine Big V Division One Women’s finals contender with a hard-fought 56-50 victory over Melbourne Uni on Saturday night. There were signs of a little ring-rust for the Warriors early, but that’s totally understandable after spending 20 days on the sidelines since their last outing – an eight point win over Camberwell. The Warriors trailed 14-15 at quarter time and trailed by two at the half (23-25), but gradually worked their way to the front with a professional performance in the latter stages of the contest. Pakenham took a two goal lead at threequarter time before banking the premiership points with a 16-12 final stanza. The Warriors won despite an inaccurate night on the floor, shotting 26 per cent from the field – making 18 of 70 attempts – and cashing in on just four of 23 shots from outside the perimeter. The Warriors won this game at the defensive end of the court with Sarah Slater pulling down eight defensive boards and receiving great support from Jacinta Maxwell, Tarryn Wilkin and Jess Finch, while Christine Stiglich and Caitlin Demczuk also chipped in with some crucial clutches. Slater was the star of the show for the Warriors, snaring a 15-point, 13-rebound doubledouble, while Wilkin was equally important scoring 11 points on a night when scoring was made difficult for both teams. The Warriors – who currently sit in second place - face a lengthy road trip this week when they hit the highway to take on eighth-placed Warrnambool at The Arc Sports Centre. Pakenham’s Division Two Men’s team had fluctuating fortunes on the weekend with the Warriors playing a part in two absorbing games of basketball. The Warriors looked magnificent in the first quarter of their Saturday night home game against Maccabi, leading 25-10 at the end of the first stanza. But as good as the Warriors were early; they were just as bad in the second term with Maccabi scoring 30-15 to lock things away at 40 each at half time. The visitors continued their ascendency in the third, leading by two at the final break and holding on to win by that slender margin - 76-
74 - at the final buzzer. Alistair Parker did his absolute best for the Warriors, securing a 17-point, 13-rebound double-double, while Josh Dow (17 points) also played a key role in the highly-entertaining first quarter. The Warriors had plenty of time for soulsearching as they hit the road for a 2pm start against Wangaratta-North East at Benalla on Sunday. The Warriors started slowly and looked set for a nasty weekend of results when they trailed 35-42 half-way through the contest. But the Warriors produced one of their best quarters for the season, scoring 29 to 14, to take an eight-point lead into the final stanza. The home side hit back hard, but that third quarter dominance saw the Warriors hang on for a nail-biting 79-77 win. Parker was again magnificent for the Warriors with a 26-point, 11-rebound double-double, while Davey (13 points) and Dodgson (14) produced some fireworks when the chips were down in the third quarter. The Warriors – currently in eighth place with a seven win 10 loss record – face another huge double header this weekend. The Warriors travel to Bundoora on Saturday night to take on top-of-the-table RMIT before hosting sixth-placed Mildura in a highnoon shootout at Cardinia Life on Sunday. Pakenham’s Youth League Two Men’s team remains in second place on the table after an 86-77 win over Bellarine. The Warriors started shaky but sorted things out with a powerful display through the middle stages of the match. Jackson Grey (21 points, 8 rebounds), Lauchlan Mark (18 points) and Dylan Jenkinson (13 points, 8 rebounds) were the main contributors to victory. The Warriors face seventh-placed Western Port at 2pm this Sunday. And the Pakenham Youth League Two Women’s team experienced the highs and lows of sport on the weekend – crushing Chelsea, 138-30 at Pakenham on Saturday night before falling 58-51 to Southern Peninsula on Sunday. Alahna Arnason bagged out with a 30-point, 16-rebound double-double against Chelsea, with Katie Karajic Powell (14-points, 11 rebounds) also joining in the fun. Despite Sunday’s loss the Warriors remain in top position and hit the road this Sunday to take on seventh-placed Wallan.
Tarryn Wilkin continues to do it at both ends of the court for the Warriors. 236624 Picture: ROB CAREW
Lions show fight in brave last battle for the season By David Nagel Pakenham’s brave run in the AFL Outer East Division One Women’s competition has come to an end with the Lions defeated by UpweyTecoma by 19 points – 4.4 (28) to 1.3 (9) – in the first semi-final at Upwey on Sunday. General play was pretty much even in the first quarter but the Tigers – Upwey-Tecoma - had a touch of class up forward that saw them capitalise on their opportunities in front of the big sticks. Jess Occhipinti, who had kicked 16 goals for the season heading into the contest, opened the Tigers’ account with a rushed snap that dribbled through after bouncing at the top of the goal square. Alex Bantock, who was well held by Lions’ full-back Tash Wakenshaw for most of the game, then found space to take a strong grab and kick truly to give the Tigers a 12-point lead at quarter time. Occhipinti once again proved the difference in a very even second quarter where both teams had two scoring shots. Occhipinti kicked truly at one end while the Lions couldn’t capitalise on their two opportunities 18 STAR NEWS
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Thursday, 5 August, 2021
The Pakenham women’s team, back from left; Samantha Bandi, Katie Sanders, Ros Cook, Bronwyn Dean, Tash Wakenshaw, Danielle Case, Rachel Betteridge, Lucy Ventham, Chloe Nagel, Charlotte Reid, Abbey Tognazzini, Saskia Ventham, Bel McGee, Amy Campbell and Emily Devine. Front row; Tamika McQueen, Kate Flynn, Jess Stefanovic, Donna Monckton, Bianca Moody, Pippa Simon and Melina Eppel. 245862 when moving forward. The Tigers led 4.0 (24) to 0.2 (2) at half time. Pakenham coach Ian Shaw made some moves at the main break, switching Abbey Tognazzini, Amy Campbell and Lucy Ventham into the middle, while Melina Eppel and Rachel Betteridge were the focal points of a more open forward line. The Lions matched the Tigers in the third term but the home side’s defence stood tall to
repel any chance of a comeback. Eppel kicked the only goal of the second half, cutting the half-time margin, but the Tigers still prevailed, 4.4 (28) to 1.3 (9), at the final siren. Occhipinti was the difference between the two teams, kicking three of the five goals scored in the match, while Bec Robinson, Millie Samios and Cale McNess will take some great form into this Sunday’s prelimi-
nary final against Beaconsfield. Despite being down and out at half time Pakenham showed great spirit to outscore the Tigers in the second half when it would have been a lot easier to roll over and get thumped. Tognazzini was the clear standout for Lions – across half back and through the middle of the ground – while Ventham, Bianca Moody, Ros Cook, Emily Devine and skipper Chloe Nagel made sure they finished their seasons on a high. Upwey-Tecoma will now take on Beaconsfield in this Sunday’s preliminary final at Yarra Junction after the Eagles lost their second semi-final clash with Mt Evelyn. Division Two Belgrave is through to the preliminary final after the Magpies eliminated Officer with a 2.10 (22) to 2.0 (12) victory in the first semi-final. It was a day of upsets with the lowest ranked teams in both games coming away with stunning victories. Olinda Ferny Creek is the first team through to the big dance after a 4.8 (32) to 1.5 (11) victory over flag favourites Yarra Junction in the second semi-final. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
SPORT
Laetisha Scanlan fell narrowly short of a medal.
Oh so close for Laetisha By David Nagel and Nick Creely Berwick shooter Laetisha Scanlan has done her local community proud but fallen agonisingly short of a first Olympic Games medal after finishing fourth in last Thursday’s Women’s Trap final in Tokyo. The 31-year-old Scanlan, who finished fifth at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games behind her gold medal-winning team-mate, Catherine Skinner, looked set for a long-awaited medal after finding herself in a strong position in the six-strong field of finalists. All shooters initially had 25 shots at the moving targets, with the finalist with the lowest score being eliminated from the final. The first to go was Scanlan’s Australian teammate Penny Smith, who hit the target with 13 of her 25 attempts. The remaining five contenders then had an additional five shots each with a further elimination then taking place. Scanlan held her nerve to fight off the challenge of Italy’s Silvana Stanco, leaving four finalists to battle it out for the three medal posi-
tions on the dais. “Sometimes, it’s just one target,” Scanlan told the Gazette in a 2020 interview as she prepared for this year’s games. And those words would prove prophetic, with Scanlan’s fate coming down to what would prove to be her last shot of the final. A direct hit would see the three-time Commonwealth Games gold medallist secure her dream Olympic medal, while a miss would hand the bronze to San Marino’s Alessandra Perilli, chasing her country’s first ever medal. Scanlan was clearly disappointed after missing her final attempt, being eliminated, and handing Perilli the bronze. Slovakia’s Zuzana Rehak-Stefecekova claimed the gold medal with Kayle Browning from the United States winning the silver. Fellow Berwick shooter, Sergei Evglevski was eliminated from the men’s 25m rapid fire pistol, after finishing 17th in his qualification event on Tuesday with a score of 572. Emerald youngster Amy Lawton and her Hockeyroos teammates have bowed out in agonising fashion, going down to India 0-1 in
Monday’s quarter finals. In the do-or-die clash played in hot conditions, the Australian team conceded an early goal and were unable to muster up the momentum to find the back of the net in the thriller. In true Hockeyroos fashion, the side never gave in despite the strong Indian defensive unit holding firm in the dying stages. But it was a promising Olympic debut for the 19-year-old Lawton, who played some exciting hockey throughout the Hockeyroos’ campaign through the midfield, setting up some strong plays. She will surely be a huge player for the Hockeyroos at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games and will be better for the experience. In the Table Tennis, Australia’s men’s team - featuring Dandenong’s Heming Hu - bowed out of the Games to a brilliant Japan unit on Monday morning. The Aussies went down 0-3 to the host nation, losing the clash in under an hour. Koki Niwa and Jun Mizutani dominated Hu and Xin Yan 11-7, 11-3, 11-8 in the doubles, be-
fore David Powell fell 11-4, 11-9, 1--7 to Tomkazu Harimoto, then Yan lost 11-4, 11-1, 11-9 to Mizutani. In the Women’s basketball, the Opals have advanced through to the quarter finals, but only just after defeating Puerto Rico 96-69 on Tuesday evening.It was a famous night for basketball in Australia, with the women needing to defeat Puerto Rico by 25 to advance to the next round, having been winless from their first two pool games.The Opals trailed at quarter time but clawed to life in the second term, producing a vintage display on the big stage. While Mariana Tolo was the star with 26 points and 17 rebounds coming off the bench, Southside Flyer and Opals skipper Jenna O’Hea was sublime, sinking 15 points (which included four triples), while her fellow WNBL teammate, Leilani Mitchell was at her best with 12 points and six assists. Another Southside Flyer, Sara Blicavs also spent some time on court and had an impact. The Opals will now take on the might of the United States in Wednesday’s (today’s) quarter finals, with the clash to be played at 1:40pm.
Slow start costly after brave Eels stage a comeback The Pakenham Eels were delighted to return to the playing fields of rugby league on Saturday as NRL Victoria made its reappearance from the most recent Covid lockdown. Competition returned for all age groups on the weekend, but with some restrictions in place. Spectators were limited to parents only and this ensured a safe return to community sport and the kids back playing rugby league. The under-16 Eels travelled to Casey Fields to take on the Casey Warriors and found themselves under immediate pressure, conceding a try in the first five minutes of play. The Warriors wingers were in a menacing mood and provided the inspiration for three converted tries in the first half – the Warriors leading the Eels 18-0 at the break. The Eels came out much more determined in the second half and looked to score early; producing some solid sets to get themselves back in the game. The Eels did just that, with Pakenham scoring three unanswered tries to narrow the margin to 18-16. Esmond Taufa, Henere Ruha, Lachlan pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
Elvis Mateariki offloads before being dragged into touch by the Casey Warriors. 246078 Pictures: SPORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY Dodson, Lachlan Braybon and Elvis Mateariki all played key roles in the comeback, which eventually took its toll. The Warriors kept their composure and scored twice before the final siren – winning 26-16. Lachlan Van Polen, Selwyn Arama, Jesse Myers and Tealofa Lota were other Eels who battled hard to the very end. The under-15 girls also hit the road to take
on a strong opponent in the Waverley Oakleigh Panthers. The Eels were defeated 42-10 but did show some promising signs with two tries being scored, with one converted. And the Eels under-14s faced the biggest trip of all, heading to Altona Meadows to take on the Altona Roosters. The Eels went down 26-4, with fullback
Lachlan Braybon knocks one over the crossbar for the Eels. 246078 Archie Stokie providing the highlight of the day with a classy try. This Saturday the under-16s hit the road again to take on the Melton Broncos, while the under-15 girls will look to get the better of the Altona Roosters at Casey Fields. The under-14s will head to Broadmeadows on Saturday morning in a big game against the Northern Thunder. Thursday, 5 August, 2021
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STAR NEWS 19
St Clare’s Catholic Primary School, Officer Our Faith leads to Wisdom and Courage.
’s has developed providing a quality schooling experience, developing
Our faith leads to wisdom and courage. St Clare’s and is embedded in the ethos of the school,
parent, guardian or family, I invite you to visit us at St Clare’s and discover this dynamic learning environment and start the beginning of, what I hope will be, a life-long learning partnership.
Helen Staindl School Principal St Clare s Primary School Officer
Enrolment Enquiries email enrolments@stclaresofficer.catholic.edu.au
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Officer 3809 Phone 03 5940 6777 12506464-SG32-21
20 STAR NEWS
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Thursday, 5 August, 2021
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