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Thursday, 9 September, 2021
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Puppies and kittens in demand By Danielle Kutchel It’s been another month of record adoptions at The Lost Dogs’ Home. Victorians in lockdown appear to be looking for comfort and are finding it in the soft eyes of a fur-friend, with hundreds of animals adopted from the Home’s Cranbourne and North Melbourne shelters over the month of August. For more, turn to page 12
Sally Laity shares the love with Cola at the Lost Dogs Home Cranbourne. 249723 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS
Life saving words It’s a simple question: R U OK? But those three little words can have a massive impact on a person’s life, as R U OK? Day ambassador Bruce Allen knows too well. The former Narre Warren South resident has struggled with depression for much of his adult life. Growing up in Wodonga, he didn’t know much about depression when he started university at the tender age of 17. On a visit back home he dropped into the local GP and was prescribed anti-depressants,
but didn’t think much of it; he took the medication, finished the script and didn’t renew it. A year later, his mother was diagnosed with cancer. Bruce was close to his mum and dropped out of uni as he travelled regularly back home to visit her. She passed away not long after his 21st birthday. This sparked his second episode of depression. Bruce threw himself into work, abandoning his studies completely. “I didn’t have the mental capacity to grieve
and study at the same time,” he recalled. “I was back on medication by then … but I still didn’t do a lot of self-care.” He still saw his GP, but didn’t see any other medical practitioners. “I thought I’d medicate my way out of it, that it was a passing phase, I was grieving.” By his mid-20s, mental health was a recurring issue for Bruce. He saw a psychiatrist for the first time but his treatment was still heavily focused on medication. By the time he reached his 30s, Bruce was married with two young children.
The next 10 years passed in a blur of new jobs, family moves and continued medication. “I had resigned myself to the fact I was going to be like this forever - I was on medication and that was the way I was going to deal with it,” he said. He saw different psychiatrists but didn’t make a connection with any of them. But in 2018, life came to a head. He separated from his wife, was being bullied at work and began having severe suicidal thoughts. Continued page 5
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By Danielle Kutchel
Glenn Patterson, City of Casey CEO
Noelene Duff PSM, City of Casey Chair of Administrators
John Rutten, City of Casey School Crossing Supervisor
Ashvina De Zoysa, President of Cook4CALD
We’re Vaccinated ARE YOU? Jobi and Jacinta, Members of Casey Rainbow Community Group
Bassir Qadiri, Casey Citizen of The Year 2020
Casey is a great place to live, work and play. Together, let’s roll up our sleeves to stay connected and healthy. The COVID-19 vaccine is our best shot at keeping us all safe. So we’ve teamed up with our mates at Star News Group to encourage everyone to get the jab. Lisa Mcleish, Public speaker and advocate for rights of people with disability
Join our vaccination heroes and get the jab to protect you, your family, friends and our community.
Thabo Ndebele, Casey health professional
Book your vaccination online at coronavirus.vic.gov.au or by calling 1800 675 398.
Mario Fallace, Owner and Operator: Fallachi Hair and New York Barber Berwick
Stewart Chambers, Photographer – Star News Group
Paul Thomas, Managing Director - Star News Group
Chaw Po, Casey Bicultural Worker
Garry Howe, Editor -Star News Group
Siobhan Beeston, Grants Real Estate 12512359-CG37-21
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Thursday, 9 September, 2021
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NEWS
IN BRIEF
Explosive fire still under investigation Multiple CFA crews were called to an explosive house fire in Hampton Park. CFA was notified at 11.39pm to reports of a house fire at Willow Drive, Hampton Park on Thursday 2 September. Eleven CFA vehicles attended and FRV also provided on-scene support. When they arrived the house was fully alight with significant flames and explosions coming from the property. The single occupant of the property had already evacuated. An alert was issued to the communities of Narre Warren South, Narre Warren, Hallam and Hampton Park for smoke in the area. Crews managed to contain the fire to the one property and the scene was declared under control at 12.28am. The cause of the fire is being investigated.
A still from a video of the incident. Picture: EVERYTHING MORNINGTON PENINSULA
Quick thinking for dangerous fire FRV firefighters made quick work of a car fire which erupted in Cranbourne West. The crew from Cranbourne Fire Station were called to the incident on Hall Road and Dandenong-Hastings Road just after 11.30am on Thursday 2 September. Firefighters from Cranbourne arrived on scene within six minutes and quickly extinguished the flames, bringing the incident under control by 11.47am. Victoria Police, Ambulance Victoria paramedics and CFA also responded to the incident. The fire is not being treated as suspicious. “Car fires can escalate rapidly and become extremely dangerous,“ explained FRV Southern District 2 Commander Paul Summons. “There is always a risk that the car can quickly become fully engulfed, endangering the occupants and members of the public. “This incident on a busy public road could have been far more serious if it were not for the quick actions of firefighters.”
Police investigate fatal Cranbourne crash
Firefighters assess the scene.
The house that was destroyed by the fire. 249714
Pictures: GARY SISSONS
Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal crash which occurred in Cranbourne. Officers have been told a motorcycle was travelling along Hawdon Drive about 11.20am on Saturday 4 September. The rider lost control of the bike and crashed into a pole. The male rider died at the scene. Anyone who witnessed the crash or with dashcam footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www. crimestoppersvic.com.au.
A million Melbourne Star memories for Cristie By Shelby Brooks Having never won anything in her life, Tooradin’s Cristie Wilson hit the jackpot when she was the one millionth guest of the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel back in 2016. She was on an outing with a mother’s club with her daughter Lexie when the group were told one of them was the millionth person to ride the wheel. “I had never been on the wheel before but I have been many times since,” Cristie said. The lucky millionth person would win an all expenses paid two week holiday to Japan. “Apparently there were signs up everywhere for the competition but we hadn’t noticed them,” Cristie said. “I had never won anything in my life, not even a meat tray raffle.” The group included four mothers and nine children so the chances of Cristie being the winner was small. “We looked at each other asking is this for real?” she said. “But they pointed to me and said you’re
the millionth guest and I think I just went ‘ahh!’ “It was amazing.” On Monday 6 September, MB Star Properties Pty Ld announced the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel would be permanently grounded. “The giant observation wheel has been a part of the city’s skyline for more than 15 years, during which time we have welcomed millions of guests from Australia and all over the world,” a statement read. “Unfortunately, the global Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent travel restrictions and sustained shutdowns, adding to preexisting challenges of operating amid increased high-rise development and changes in the Docklands area, has made it impossible to sustain the business.” Cristie said she was disappointed it was shutting down. “I am a bit sad about it closing,” she said. “But I can’t help thinking that if it was placed further in Melbourne city, like along Birrurung Marr or similar it would have been a lot more popular.”
Cristie Wilson of Tooradin, centre, won an all-expenses paid trip to Japan for being the one millionth visitor to the Melbourne Star Wheel in 2016.
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Thursday, 9 September, 2021
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STAR NEWS 3
THE LOWDOWN Q&A
with Jill Sparkes, Casey U3A secretary and Berwick Evening VIEW club member
Why did you choose to join View? I was invited to join View by a friend from U3A. They are a fun and interesting group and are very committed to helping young Australians with their education through the Smith Family. What does your work in U3A involve? I am currently the secretary of Casey U3A which is dedicated to providing courses and classes that give those 55 and over, and who are retired or semi-retired, a chance to meet and make friends with others of the same age and interests. Pre-Covid (and during the short bursts of freedom from lockdown) we offered up to 53 different classes which have been taken up by over 400 members. During lockdowns we have been able to supply things for our members to take part in. Zumba, Ukulele Beginners, Gentle Meditative Movement and Guided Meditation and Bookclub come to mind, all run on Zoom. Our development team is always trying to find interesting things for our members to take part in and all classes are offered for a very low, oneoff yearly subscription of $35. We are also one of very Victorian U3As whose membership has grown during the pandemic. I have done a lot of courses and still take part in Drawing, 4 Medium Art, Table Tennis, Bookclub and Games club. Not only have I been able to dabble in things I have always wanted to do, I have met some wonderful people who will no doubt be friends for life. Tell us a fun fact about yourself! I took up the sport of archery in my 50s and loved it. I have not yet found a club to call home here but the Olympics have certainly rekindled the flame and I am determined to find a club (preferably indoor) not too far away that I can join. What is your favourite cuisine? Vietnamese. Who is your biggest inspiration? That is a big call but if I had to I would chose
Jill Sparkes.
Picture: SUPPLIED
Maya Angelou. An incredible life, lived rich and powerful. I love listening to her voice reading her poetry. If you had to compete on MasterChef what dish would you cook? Vegemite toast. I dislike cooking, would rather read a book. If you were Prime Minister for a day. What would be the first thing you would do? I would add volunteering to the curriculum for all school students, and make companies pay their employees to volunteer for a up to a week throughout the year in an organisation of their choice. Volunteers are becoming fewer as the older people who grew up with the idea of giving back through volunteering are disappearing. It’s such an easy thing to do, to volunteer some of your time, and what you get in return is invaluable.
What are you most looking forward to when lockdown ends? Seeing my family face to face and hugging my grandchildren. Why are volunteers so important in the community? So many programs would be impossible if not for volunteers. For example, I was asked if I would like to volunteer for Riding for the Disabled at Myuna Farm and did so for a couple of years. What an incredible group of volunteers they have. The children who take part in their program have a very diverse range of disabilities and all are cherished by this band of wonderful people. Covid has of course put a stop to their seeing the children, but the horses are still fed and tended every day. If you look around, volunteers drive a lot of things we take for granted. For instance, we would not have op shops which provide us with a great source of “treasures” for inside or outside our homes if there were no volunteers. A few of my friends are addicted to these little treasure houses and just can’t go past one. Op shops in turn provide funding for many voluntary organisations Volunteers also help with feeding the homeless, animal shelters, Special Olympics, community choirs, National Trust, hospital volunteers, Scouts, Plant a Tree, Vic Parks and Gardens, to name a very few. The list is long and increasing. What do you love about the Casey Community? I love the fact that Bunjil Place exists and I can see amazing events there. I also love that all the people I have met in Casey are caring, and giving back in some way to their community. I love the trees and parks around my neighbourhood in Berwick, and feel very lucky to live in such a lovely area. If anyone is interested in making enquiries about Casey U3A they can look up our website at Casey.u3anet.org.au, contact us at caseyu3apr@gmail.com, or contact the membership officer at U3aenrol@gmail.com.
THREE … facts about baby birds
1
Baby birds are known by different names depending on their stage of development. They can be called nestlings, hatchlings or fledgelings. They may also have special names depending on their species - for example, baby swans are called cygnets
2
Bread is bad for ducklings and cygnets. It doesn’t contain the nutrients they need to grow into healthy adults. Feeding them bread can also cause them to become dependent on humans.
3
It’s best to watch from a safe distance. If you get too close, the parents (and babies) may get upset. Steer clear and use the zoom function on your camera to get a better view. Keep kids, dogs and cats away from where baby birds are feeding and playing and watch them grow up in peace.
Works continue near you and there will be transport disruptions As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re removing level crossings and building the Metro Tunnel. Train disruptions: Buses and coaches replace trains in both directions Pakenham Line
10.30pm to last train, 14 Sep
Dandenong to Pakenham
Cranbourne and Pakenham lines
8.30pm to last train each night, 15 to 16 Sep
Westall to Cranbourne and Pakenham
8.40pm to last train each night, 27 to 30 Sep
Caulfield to Westall
Until 9pm, 2 Oct
Flinders Street to Caulfield
From 9pm 2 Oct to 3 Oct
Flinders Street to Oakleigh
Each night, 27 to 30 Sep From 9pm 2 Oct to 3 Oct
Southern Cross to Pakenham
Gippsland Line
Road disruptions: Closed roads and lanes Skyline Way, Berwick
Until 13 Sep
Closed at O’Shea Road
Koo Wee Rup Road
Until late 2021
Lanes closed and speed reductions
Clyde Road, Berwick
Until early 2022
Lane closed southbound between Enterprise Avenue and Reserve Street Lane closed northbound between Sir Gustav Nossal Boulevard and Jane Street
Soldiers Road, Berwick
17 Sep to 4 Oct
Closed at O’Shea Road
MTIA6509
These works are progressing with strict COVIDSafe Plans in place. The health and safety of our workforce and community remains our top priority. For more information and advice about coronavirus (COVID-19), please visit coronavirus.vic.gov.au
Find a detailed list of disruptions at bigbuild.vic.gov.au Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne
12510871-AV37-21
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Thursday, 9 September, 2021
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NEWS
Support younger workers By Danielle Kutchel While veterans of the workforce enjoy the perks of working from home, junior employees may be struggling to adjust, according to one HR expert. Katriina Tahka, CEO at A Human Agency, is urging employers to devise a strategic plan to support their junior staff – especially those entering the workforce for the first time. “People who’ve had 20-30 years in the workforce are quite comfortable with the idea of continuing to work from home remotely,” she explained. But those with less than five years’ at a company don’t have their office-based experience to draw on, she said, and are “thrown in the deep end, trying to figure out how to work for a company or at all after just a couple of Zoom meetings”. Additionally, she said, many younger employees don’t have adequate home office setups or still live at home with parents who may be trying to work remotely too. And the disconnect can begin to strain some people’s mental health, she warned. Ms Tahka said employers everywhere need to think differently about how to help new employees feel like they’re part of the workplace without having ever stepped foot in it. She said employers should be conscious of the different needs of different generations within their organisations, with younger generations experiencing work differently. “When it comes to looking after employees, you need an individual understanding of what that individual needs,” she said. More practically, she said employers should be wary of Zoom fatigue and of the repetition of endless online meetings about work. To help juniors to settle in and feel connect-
ed, employers could try regular, short checkins in different ways – even an old-fashioned phone call. Buddy systems and bonding activities like weekly trivia games can help foster camaraderie. Bosses could also encourage walking catch ups where employees take the call out in the sunshine. “There are mental health benefits to not staring at a person on a screen,” Ms Tahka said. “We know a lot of businesses will say ‘I have no time, I’m flat out trying to make it through the pandemic’ … but I think it’s something we have to make time for.” For employers, the cost of not staying connected to their junior employees can be high, Ms Tahka said. “If they don’t do it well, in a couple of months we will see massive movement of people in companies because people are just drifting off. “If you haven’t done what’s needed to keep people, especially young people now, people will take off just to get new experiences and go somewhere.” For junior employees themselves, Ms Tahka recommended they have the courage to speak up if they’re feeling disconnected from work. “You don’t have to pretend everything’s perfect. “Sometimes it can be tempting not to make waves but if you’re concerned about anything, find someone you feel confident talking to. It doesn’t have to be a colleague,” she said. If you feel the need to speak with someone, you can contact: Lifeline – lifeline.org.au or 13 11 14 Beyond Blue – beyondblue.org.au or 1300 224 636
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Katriina Tahka, CEO of A Human Agency.
Picture: SUPPLIED
It’s time to use those life saving words From page 1 And in November of that year, Bruce made an attempt on his life. Police attended and he was sent to Monash Medical Centre for observation, before being released early that morning. The hospital called him over the next couple of days to check in, and that’s when Bruce knew he needed to make some drastic changes. “When they called me back I said ‘I’m no good. What do I need to do to get myself into hospital?’” Soon after, Bruce had checked in to St John of God in Dandenong. This, he said, was his “life changing moment”. His weight had ballooned to 115kg – and in the fog of mental illness, he hadn’t even noticed. But worse was the fact that none of the people around him had thought to question his weight gain and ask if he was OK.
“That was the most disappointing part for me. I got to this point where I didn’t care about myself, but no one had come forth and recognised it and told me that. “I didn’t have someone asking if I was OK and I was really close to not being here because of it. “There’s a lot of people that unfortunately end up worse than me. They don’t make it. “And maybe all they needed was someone to ask that question.” Since leaving the hospital, Bruce has turned his life around. With the help of a new GP and a new psychologist, he’s picked up the tools he needs to get better. He’s taken up running and has lost weight, and finally came off his medication 12 months after leaving hospital. He still has regular check-ins with his psychologist but they are less frequent now that he is “doing really well”. At a work mindfulness event he ran into
an R U OK? Day ambassador, and before long had signed up to be an ambassador himself. It’s a message Bruce firmly believes can change lives. “I understand how much it could’ve made a difference to me, that simple message. It wouldn’t have taken a lot,” he said. With the pandemic and lockdowns weighing heavily on people’s mental health, Bruce said he would urge anyone feeling distressed or down to reach out for a chat with someone they trust. He said while reaching out the first time is the hardest, it gets easier from there – and generally, people are willing to help you get better. “The beautiful thing about R U OK? is you don’t have to be skilled – anyone can ask and make the difference,” he said. He recommends a visit to the R U OK? Day website to find resources and referrals to take action if the answer to the question is ‘no’.
Bruce Allen, now an R U OK? Day ambassador, says those three words could save someone’s life. Picture: SUPPLIED “There’s a lot of people doing it tough. I think now more than ever is the right time to ask if they’re OK,” Bruce said. For resources on mental health and how to check if someone is OK, visit ruok.org.au If you need to reach out to someone, please contact: Lifeline – 13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au Beyond Blue - 1300 22 4636 or beyondblue. org.au
· ·
ily m a f , s riend the f h t i t w to be nd protec e love. a nity w u m com To book visit portal.cvms.vic.gov.au or call 1800 675 398 jordan.crugnale@parliament.vic.gov.au
T 03 5672 4755
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Authorised by J Crugnale, 9 McBride Ave, Wonthaggi, 3995.
Thursday, 9 September, 2021
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STAR NEWS 5
NEWS
OPINION
New degrees at Fed Uni
SOCIALLY SPEAKING
LENSCAPE
To celebrate Father’s Day, we asked you to come up with your best dad jokes! Here’s what our readers came up with: Rebecca Blackmore: I saw a coffee go into a police station. He was mugged.
Federation University Australia has launched four new degrees at its Berwick campus to help tackle the skills shortage in health and education fuelled by a population boom in Melbourne’s south eastern suburbs and growing suburban fringe. Cardinia Shire is the sixth fastest growing local government area in Australia, according the Australian Government’s Centre for Population, while the population in the growing suburbs of Cranbourne South, Cranbourne East, Beaconsfield, Officer, Bunyip and Garfield are expected to double by 2036. The new courses include industry experience to ensure students are job-ready.
Elsewhere on social media, on Monday 6 September a story was shared to the Cranbourne Star News Facebook page regarding the sentencing of Jessie Moore, who murdered her great aunt, greyhound trainer Karen Leek, in 2020. Here’s how our readers responded: Gaye Guest: Hope her children are being well cared for. Another tragedy that will have ever lasting repercussions.
Elmo is on the move from Backpacks 4 Vic Kids charity op shop in Cranbourne. 249846 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS
And on Berwick Star News on Friday 3 September, we shared a story about hoons tearing up land on Chadwick Road in Harkaway. Here’s what our readers had to say: Janine Jefferys: No respect. Hayden Morin: the Karen’s have spoken (sic).
THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN 12506579-SN32-21
Thumbs up To Lynbrook Post Office for their excellent service.
Thumbs down To Casey Council for putting the rates up again - for what?
Thumbs up To Kelly’s for giving complimentary pints of beer for Father’s Day weekend!
4/30 Station St. Cranbourne | 0414 843 452
Still a big thumbs down To all the car hoons in Cranbourne/Cranbourne West. What is even more frustrating is that literally nothing gets done about it. Even after one lost control in our street this year and crashed into a powerpole then did a runner. Nothing. Nada. Has never been done.
Big thumbs up To Cranbourne Turf Club for a very well run vaccine centre.
Thumbs up They found the three year old boy.
Thumbs down To those not following the rules. Thumbs up to those of us that are.
Thumbs down To the short sharp lockdown.
Thumbs down To funeral limit still.
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.
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By Margaret Edwards, Casey Cardinia For Refugees
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Thursday, 9 September, 2021
Two weeks ago as our attention was focused on the fall of Kabul, 33 refugees detained for more than two years in Australia were quietly released into community detention on Temporary Protection Visas (TPVs). This means they are provided a house and a small payment fortnightly. They are free to move about in the community (in the absence of lockdown restrictions), and have support from a government-funded service such as Life Without Barriers or AMES. These men were brought to Australia under the Medevac Bill from Manus Island ( PNG ) over two years ago because of extreme physical and mental health needs. The legislation which enabled their evacuation for urgent medical attention was passed in early 2019 but repealed in December of that year on the casting vote of Senator Jacqui Lambie. Many of the refugees who were released had been held on Manus Island in very cruel and harsh circumstances for six years or more. Anyone who is interested in learning more about conditions on Manus and the story of one particular refugee who fled Myanmar and later managed to escape from Manus Island, should read the recently released book, Escape from Manus by Jaivet Ealom. Refugee action groups do not know why these 33 refugees were released, or how the selection was made. It would appear to be random and the men themselves have received no explanation. It is bittersweet for them as many of their close friends remain locked up. They had been detained in the Mantra Hotel in Brisbane and Park Hotel in Carlton, as
YOUR VOICE well as in the MITA detention centre in Broadmeadows. Twenty-five of the men were released from Melbourne detention. Five of them (that we know of) have been placed in community detention in the City of Casey. They are from Pakistan and Iran and are all young men who should be in the prime of their lives but are now struggling with their mental and physical health after what they have endured for the best part of their 20s. They are intelligent, gentle men who now struggle with depression, panic attacks, anxiety and PTSD as well as physical health issues. Their resilience has enabled them to survive their years of incarceration, where some of their friends took their own lives. But though they are now living in houses in our community and to us, it may seem they are “free”, they have been given no certainty from the government. Their futures remain in limbo and they live every day with the ongoing trauma of not knowing what their future will be or if they will have any chance to resume a “normal” life in Australia or perhaps in the USA or Canada. They are under stress all the time. Casey Cardinia for Refugees is a local refugee action group which has been providing financial support to refugees in off-shore detention for over four years. We also stage a weekly vigil at the Berwick Village main intersection on Saturday morn-
ings (when able) to raise awareness of refugee issues. We write regularly to the Pakenham Gazette, other media outlets and our elected parliamentarian Jason Wood, who ignores our ongoing requests to meet with him. Casey Cardinia for Refugees has been able to reach out to some of these recently released refugees who now live in our community. We are extending friendship and support where possible. They are in need of money to buy groceries, clothes, phone cards etc as their Government payment does not cover all these things. Anyone who would like to donate to Casey Cardinia for Refugees is most welcome to contact us at caseycardiniaforrefugees@gmail. com. We also help support the refugees in PNG who are in dire situations living in Port Moresby in a hostile dangerous environment with very little support. We send them money for phone cards and food. There are still close to 277 refugees and asylum seekers held in detention in immigration centres or hotels across Australia. Thirty-seven of these men are in the Park Hotel Carlton. When restrictions lift, the daily vigils on Lygon Street held by refugee action groups and concerned individuals will resume, to remind these men that they are not forgotten. We deplore this treatment of people who have come to our country seeking safety and security from places like war-torn Afghanistan. They should all be released into the community and be provided with Covid vaccinations and full and necessary support immediately. cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
Final care funding needed By Danielle Kutchel To paraphrase Benjamin Franklin, death is one of only a couple of certainties in life, and a south eastern group is looking to make it as comfortable as possible. Palliative Care South East (PCSE) needs a new home to continue its work in providing a welcoming place for people to experience palliative care. The not for profit had been co-located with Monash Health in Cranbourne for 30 years. They have purchased a block of land on Victor Crescent, Narre Warren, which will be central to the growth of the population the organisation serves. But as a charitable body, they need a bit of help from the government to get construction of their new building over the line. PCSE currently serves the LGAs of Casey, Cardinia, Greater Dandenong and Kingston. The majority of its clients – 53.9 per cent – come from Casey. And with the south eastern region continuing to grow, chief executive officer Kelly Rogerson predicts PCSE’s client base will also increase too. From 2018 to 2020, PCSE saw a 63 per cent increase in admissions. There has been a 65 per cent increase in palliative care requests since the pandemic started, as people in care choose to remain in their homes, staying connected with the community or their family – especially during lockdown, when visitor numbers to clinical settings are tightened. The new site will replicate and expand on the work the not for profit currently does from Cranbourne, Ms Rogerson said. “We’ll have a purpose-built environment to welcome people to and demystify and improve communication around the benefits of palliative care,” she said.
Matilde, Sheri, Mel, Rob, Jayanthi, Wendy and Linda from PCSE. 249066 “Palliative care is a right for individuals – not a nice-to-have, it’s a must-have.” PCSE’s mix of services caters to the whole individual and offers comfort at a difficult time: nursing and medical care, art and music therapy, counselling services and spiritual care. PCSE also supports carers and relatives for 13 months after the death of their loved one. Around 1200 people are currently on PCSE’s books for bereavement support, while more than 400 are receiving active management and palliative care services. All of this is achieved with just 65 staff and 50 volunteers. “The team is extraordinary, they give so much and are so committed and dedicated,” Ms Rogerson said. They’ve approached La Trobe MP Jason Wood for support with funding for their new home. He suggested setting up a petition to gauge support for the cause within the wider community. That petition, seeking $4.7 million in funding to finish the new Palliative Care Commu-
Kelly Rogerson, CEO of PCSE, is urging the community to sign the petition. 249066 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS nity Hub in Victor Crescent, is currently open. “We just want to keep doing the work we’re doing, but we need a capital injection,” Ms Rogerson said. They receive block funding from the Victorian Department of Health but haven’t had an uplift in funding commensurate with their costs, which increase every year. Mr Wood said the high level of population growth in the area had placed pressure on health services, including PCSE. “Palliative Care South East have already purchased the land for the new building, now they need your help to secure the funding for the Palliative Care Community Hub which will serve every member of the community who needs their care, skills and support,” he said.
“With this funding they will be able to complete the building and ensure their service can support additional people annually, making a significant difference to those living with a life limiting illness in our community. “That is why I have started an online petition, to secure federal funding and demonstrate public support for this great service.” Ms Rogerson urged the community to sign the petition. “You only die once, you don’t get chance to do it again, so you want to get it right,” Ms Rogerson said. To sign the petition, visit https://www.research.net/r/XQB9RNX?fbclid=IwAR10WpTe6 5zj1KhZBiNhoafVmG-e_yCX2t_TkSZGxmrHCHUhs9fxmFITLa8
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Thursday, 9 September, 2021
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Pollies lead push to vax
MPs make call for action By Danielle Kutchel Three Federal Labor MPs have joined forces to slam the Federal Government’s reaction to the crisis in Afghanistan. Bruce MP Julian Hill, Isaacs MP Mark Dreyfus and Holt MP Anthony Byrne released a joint statement on Monday 30 August, criticising what they see as a failure of the Federal Government to act soon enough to save Afghans who supported Australia’s mission in the country and speed up visa processing times. Mr Hill, Mr Dreyfus and Mr Byrne said they had received an “overwhelming number of calls, letters and emails to our offices from families desperate for news of their loved ones and seeking urgent help to get their relatives out of Afghanistan”. “The Afghan-Australian community has a right to feel angry that the Morrison-Joyce Government ignored persistent pleas for more urgent action for so long and failed to act until it was much too late,” the MPs said in the statement. “For many months, veterans, former prime ministers and Labor have been calling for urgent action from the MorrisonJoyce Government to fulfil Australia’s moral obligation to the Afghans who have risked everything to support our mission and to speed up the processing of family, partner and other visas. “This humanitarian crisis was foreseeable, and many people seeking protection here could have been spared the deeply distressing scenes we witnessed at Kabul airport had the government acted sooner.” But La Trobe MP and Assistant Minister for Customs, Community Safety and Multicultural Affairs, Jason Wood, called the comments “misleading”. “The comments made by Labor are misleading and seek to politicise a desperate situation,” he said.
By Danielle Kutchel Almost one-third of residents in the City of Casey are fully vaccinated against Covid-19. According to data released by the Federal Government’s Operation Covid Shield, as of Sunday 5 September, 31.7 per cent of eligible Casey residents have received their second shot while 54.3 per cent of Casey residents have received dose one. There are 273,232 residents aged over 15 years old in the City. Despite having a mass vaccination hub in the city’s heart, Casey is sitting slightly behind neighbouring Cardinia, which has 56.9 per cent of its eligible population single-dosed and 32.3 per cent fully vaxxed. According to the data, 86,129 of Cardinia’s residents are aged over 15. Greater Dandenong is hovering at 49.8 per cent of residents with a single dose. But its fully vaccinated number is lagging at 27.9 per cent – among the lowest in Victoria. Overall, Melbourne’s south east has the third lowest percentage of double-dosed residents in Victoria, at 32.4 per cent. Casey is also one of the lowest-vaccinated local government areas in the state. As of Monday 6 September, Victoria-wide, 61.59 per cent of the eligible population has had its first dose, as the state inches closer to the 70 per cent first-dose target for easing of restrictions. Victoria is set to reach that target around Sunday 19 September. A total 38.3 per cent of eligible Victorians are fully vaccinated. State politicians have urged Casey residents to keep going as we get closer to the target. Pauline Richards, MP for Cranbourne, said she got vaccinated so she could see her family again. “Cranbourne has made sacrifices, but it’s time to get vaccinated so that we can be back
La Trobe MP Jason Wood. “The Morrison Government is committed to supporting our 70,000 strong AfghanAustralian community. “My office has been working directly with both the Afghan community and with Minister Hawke’s office to assist with emergency visas.” He said the recently wrappedup evacuations from Afghanistan were part of “one of our largest humanitarian airlift operations in our history”, with around 4100 people airlifted out of the country on 32 flights. “The Morrison Government also granted protection visas to around 1800 Afghan former locally engaged employees before the recent military supported airlift,” Mr Wood added. “We are unapologetic about maintaining a strong and fair immigration system but Labor’s open door policy with no caps and no security checks are exactly why they should stay in Opposition.” Mr Hill, Mr Dreyfus and Mr Byrne said they were “grateful” for the Australian Defence Force’s work in carrying out the evacuation mission and pledged to stand by the Afghan-Australian community “in the difficult days ahead”.
together again,” she said. “We all have different reasons; I got vaccinated so that I could see my daughters again. It was easy and protects young people.” Bass MP Jordan Crugnale said she was proud to be vaccinated and urged others to be “part of the solution - so our kids can go back to school-based learning, families can travel, friends can celebrate special occasions, our local businesses can open, musicians and artists can play and perform and our essential workers can have a well-deserved rest after a very long 18 months of doing their best to keep us fed, supported and safe.” Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas said hitting the vaccination targets would mean “getting to have fun again”, and urged his community to speak to health professionals rather than relying on misinformation and “dodgy social media posts”. “The best way to keep you, your family and our community safe is to get vaccinated. C’mon Narre South – we’ve got this!” he said. Keen home-brewer and Gembrook MP Brad Battin said vaccinations were the best way to get back to doing what we enjoy, like having a coffee with loved ones or a beer with mates. “So many people are relying on us achieving the National Cabinet targets to return to normal. I encourage those who can, to get vaccinated and let’s end 2021 with our family and friends,” he said. Narre Warren North MP Luke Donnellan praised those who had already received their jabs. “I have been pleased to see so many people in the south east rolling up their sleeves and getting vaccinated for their community and those they love. I am very proud to represent and be part of such a vibrant and compassionate community,” he said. “I strongly urge all who are eligible to book their jab so we can get back to doing the things we love.”
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Rex name shame By Mitchell Clarke Almost one year since alleged corruption was exposed within the City of Casey, a former councillor is still fighting to clear his name. Former Springfield Ward councillor Rex Flannery, who resigned as deputy mayor just days before the State Government sensationally sacked the entire council in February 2020, says the events of the past 12 months are still “eating” him up. He has now officially requested that his name is removed from both a councillor honour board in the customer service centre and a wall plaque in Bunjil Place. “I have never had any involvement into this alleged corruption scandal and therefore I do not wish to have my name associated with past or former councillors who may have brought our City of Casey into disrepute,” he told Star News. “People look at your name and they see that you’re from Casey Council and immediately they put you in that same mould, which couldn’t be further than the truth. “It’s just horrible to have been a councillor in that term. It gives you a sickening feeling in your gut and now I have to live with that.“ Mr Flannery argues his name should never have been placed on the plaque celebrating the $126 million Bunjil development because at the time he didn’t support the project. “I guess I’ve eaten a little bit of humble pie with Bunjil Place. I’ve been able to see the value that place brings to the community but at the time I was against the development and I wasn’t once consulted (about having my name included),” he said. He also claims former ex-ward partner, Sam Aziz, stated to him that he “wished he never had my name added to the plaque”. “That was the only time I agreed with him,” Mr Flannery said. While Mr Flannery hasn’t accused any former councillor of committing wrongdoing, he said anyone found guilty from the IBAC hearing should immediately have their honours stripped. “They need to have their plaques removed
Rex name shame
Final Stage
Rex Flannery, pictured in late 2015, wants his name stripped from council. 148005 from anywhere within the City of Casey ... whether it’s a plaque in the botanical gardens or in Bunjil Place, I want them removed so they have absolutely no recognition anymore,” he said. “They’ve disgraced themselves and they’ve disgraced the council. They’ve taken something away from me that I totally enjoyed. I loved serving the Casey community. I just want some clarity as to what way it’s going to go.” Since his resignation, Mr Flannery has been working in an operating theatre at a local hospital. He said he has every intention to run for council again in 2024.
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Bunjil Place. associated with the 2016-20 term.” Casey’s governance manager Rhys Matulis said: “Given the IBAC investigation, it would be inappropriate to comment on that matter. Council has received and will consider Mr Flannery’s request in due course.”
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“I want to get back into serving the community again. I want to run again and I want to get my name back on the honour board for the right reasons. At the moment it’s a dishonour board,” he said. Star News understands Mr Flannery has put forward his request to be heard by the administrators at the next council meeting, slated for Tuesday 2 February.“It’s up to them now but a year later, this is still eating at me. I need closure and this is one way that I can get it,“ he said. “I played no part in any downturn or sacking of the council and I feel it’s my duty to say that I don’t want to be a part of or in any way
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Almost one year since alleged corruption was exposed within the City of Casey, a former councillor is still fighting to clear his name.
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Op shop’s lockdown toll By Danielle Kutchel It’s the end of an era for the Backpacks 4 Vic Kids charity op shop on Camms Road. By the end of the month the shop will close down, with successive lockdowns having finally taken their toll. For the volunteers who gave their all over the shop’s 18 months of trading, it’s a bittersweet time with the sadness tinged with memories of camaraderie and repeat customers. “We’ve got a lot of harmony here,” said volunteer Christine. She’s dedicated herself wholeheartedly to the Backpacks 4 Vic Kids (B4VK) cause, crocheting blankets on a weekly basis for kids entering out-of-home care. “We’re a good bunch of people. We click so well,” she said, referring to her fellow volunteers. “I don’t know what I’m going to do when it closes.” Fellow volunteer Marilyn had previously worked at a Red Cross op shop that closed. She attended a presentation about B4VK, and after the Red Cross closed, made her way straight down to Camms Road to ask about volunteering at the B4VK op shop. “What fun it is to work here! We have a laugh and it’s so enjoyable,” she said. “I’ve never felt as appreciated as a volunteer. It’s been a pleasure to come here.” Op shop manager Suzie Brooking said volunteers were united by their commitment to the cause. Over the shop’s operation they had all found their niche within the shop, she said, such as working out the front or sorting out products out the back. She said the volunteers celebrated each other and would bring cookies and treats to help foster connections and friendships.
Coreena packs up stock. 248290
It’s the end of an era for Coreena, Marilyn and Christine. 248290 Volunteer Coreena said she would miss the customers. “People were always friendly,” she reminisced. “We had our regulars. Some would make us a cake, bring us lemons. They’re all sad that we’re shutting.” Volunteer Kerry, one of the longest-serving volunteers at the op shop, said she had been happy to find the place. She enjoyed the shop’s renovation and re-
Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS
opening last year, as well as the friendships she has made. “The charity itself is quite unique. It’s nice to help it,” she added. Suzie said she was proud of how the shop had survived over the last 18 months, and the space it had occupied in the Cranbourne community. While she’s sad to see the shop close down after the hours of hard work that volunteers have poured into it, she said she would look back on the positives.
“It’s been a resource centre for carers to come and grab what they need to help their child. “It helped people afford things they couldn’t, and helped create that sense of community. “Ten times more people will know about B4VK now. “We can’t say it was all for nothing. It was hard work, but we made lots of friends. We got a lot of good compliments.” And there’s a chance the shop may reopen in future, if an affordable – or paid-for – location can be found. “It’s goodbye, but you never know what’s going to happen in the future!” Suzie said. The shop is currently selling its final stock via Facebook Marketplace – look up B4VK Charity Op Shop on Facebook to find out more. The charity that the op-shop supported, Backpacks 4 Vic Kids, will continue to operate. To find out how to support them, visit backpacks4vickids.org.au/
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Improvement starts here It was the Scottish poet Robbie Burns (1759 – 1796) that once said: “O, wad some Power the giftie gie us To see oursels as others see us!” which in modern English simply states ‘if only we could see ourselves as others see us’. If we are serious about improving performance in our own business role(s), whatever they may be, then it is important to start by understanding how we are doing. I clearly remember at an early stage of my managerial career being involved in what was termed an ‘upward feedback survey’ (also known as ‘360 degree feedback’) in which anonymous feedback is provided by your peers and team members as well as your boss on your own performance. I also remember the CEO at the time saying that this was not something you should necessarily “read from the top of a tall building” as you invariably get some unpleasant truths fed back! Sometimes you can be left wondering how your actions could have been interpreted in the way they were but equally you do also get some pleasant surprises as well. My point here is that we all try to behave in ways we consider reasonable but what may be ‘reasonable’ to us, may not necessarily appear so to others and so understanding how our behaviours are showing up to others is key. Here is an old Chinese parable that highlights the point: A young man set off walking from village A to village B along a well-used track, a journey that was going to take him most of the day. As he approached the mid-point, he saw an old man sitting beside the road. They chatted for a bit and curious to know what lay ahead of him, he asked the old man what the people at the next village were like. The old man asked him “what were they like at village A?” to which he responded that they were very friendly, hospitable and he really enjoyed their company.
TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS IAN ASH “That is what the people are like at the next village” said the old man. Happy with this response, the young man continued his journey. The following day, another young man was making the same trip along the track from village A to village B and he too spotted the elderly man sitting by the road around the half-way point. This young man was also keen to find out what might be in store for him at village B. The old man asked him “what were they like at village A?” to which this young man replied that they were unfriendly, anti-social and he was glad to be rid of their company. “That is what the people are like at the next village” said the old man. The point here is that when we start to see patterns emerge in the relationships that we have with others, whilst we may have previously thought that ‘the others’ were at fault, if we tend to see the same problems reoccurring for us, it might be time to start to take a more critical look at our own actions and behaviours. This is not to necessarily say that we are always in the wrong, but it may be a question of style or perhaps we are filtering the information we receive through a strong personal belief system which causes us to view things differently to most. As an example, I recently coached a talented young man whose consistent complaint was that ‘people didn’t listen to him’. As we explored this further, it became clear that for him, ‘not agreeing’ meant they weren’t listen-
If you are a business leader with people responsibilities, being aware of how others perceive you is critically important. ing which puts a very different perspective on things. In fact, his challenge was to listen harder to others. If you are a business leader with people responsibilities, being aware of how others perceive you is critically important otherwise you can continue to make the same mistakes over
and over perhaps without even realizing it. Getting some feedback to understand where you can improve is the first step to becoming a highly effective manager and leader. Ian Ash is the Managing Director OrgMent Business Solutions - www.ombs.com.au
FOCUS ON … TAX TIME
ATO reminder about legitimate work claims The Australian Taxation Office has issued a reminder to taxpayers about the rules regarding work expenses like protective clothing, uniforms and travel. A deduction some people might be claiming due to Covid-19 is expenses for protective items required for work. “Taxpayers working in jobs that require physical contact or close proximity with customers or clients during Covid-19 measures may be able to claim a deduction for items such as gloves, face masks, sanitiser or antibacterial spray if they have paid for the items and not been reimbursed. This includes industries like healthcare, retail and hospitality” said ATO assistant commissioner Karen Foat said.
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dry expenses or travel expenses decline this year,” Ms Foat said. “If you aren’t travelling for work, you can’t claim travel expenses. If you aren’t wearing your work uniform, you can’t claim laundry expenses. It’s still important to meet the three golden rules: you must have spent the money and not have been reimbursed, it must relate directly to earning your income, and you must have a record to prove it. “What you can claim really depends on your circumstances. Whilst we are trying to make it easier for people to claim what they are entitled to; we are also asking people to take a bit of extra care if their circumstances have changed this year.” Ms Foat said.
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You still cannot claim travelling from home to work. “Generally, most people cannot claim the cost of travelling to and from work and working from home as a result of Covid-19 does not change this. For example, if you are working from home because of Covid-19 but need to go to your regular office one day per week, your home to work travel is still private travel and cannot be claimed,” Ms Foat said. Reduce claims that aren’t relevant for part of the year “With more people working from home, working reduced hours or unfortunately not working at all, we expect to see claims for laun-
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NEWS
Global sports commentating star Michael Schiavello.
Pictures: DAVID ASH
At the top of his game By Danielle Kutchel In a career spanning 30 years, Narre Warren South resident Michael Schiavello has beamed into millions of homes, bringing sport to life with an electric energy. He’s rubbed shoulders with some of the world’s biggest sports stars and worked on massive global events. But it wasn’t always his dream to be a sports commentator. In fact, as a year 10 student looking for work experience, Mr Schiavello had his heart set on being an architect. When none of the architecture firms he wrote to offered him a work experience position, Mr Schiavello’s mother encouraged him to try radio instead. He applied to Triple M and received a confirmation letter on his birthday. The team put him in the newsroom for his work experience tenure, and Mr Schiavello said he quickly fell in love with the gadgets, the microphones and flashing buttons. “From that moment on, all thoughts of being an architect disappeared and all I wanted to do was radio and broadcasting and media.” His mum, it seemed, had been on to something. In year 11, as a “means to wag class”, Mr Schiavello joined some mates in commentating a school athletics event at Olympic Park. Finding he had a real knack for the craft, he went on to work at the local community radio station where he scored interviews with some of the world’s biggest sports stars. By the age of 20 he had found his groove commentating fight sports. Since then, Mr Schiavello’s passion and enthusiasm for sports and commentating has taken him all over the world to commentate major sporting events, including commentating the boxing events for over 130 countries in the 2008 Beijing Olympics and the boxing in the 2006 Commonwealth Games. He’s worked in 27 different countries, from Jamaica to Hungary, England to France, the USA to Poland and all throughout Asia. He’s a two-time winner of the Asian Television Award for Best Sports Presenter/Com-
Michael Schiavello in his element. cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
mentator and is the most watched Australian sports television commentator, broadcast to 154 countries with Nielsen-rated viewership of 81 million globally. He’s hosted his own prime time interview show in the US, ‘The Voice Versus’, where he interviewed big names like Steven Seagal, George Foreman, Hulk Hogan and ‘Sugar’ Ray Leonard. He counts ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin as his best ever interview – and to this day, the nowretired wrestler calls Mr Schiavello for interviewing advice for his own television shows. Now, Mr Schiavello has released a book, called ‘The Commentators’, celebrating 100 years of sports commentating. 2021 is the 100th anniversary of the profession, and Mr Schiavello’s book delves into the greatest sporting moments in history and the commentators behind them. Some of the world’s best commentators have contributed sections to the book, including Vin Scully, who has been voted the number one sports commentator of all time. With such an impressive CV, it might look like there’s little left to achieve – but Mr Schiavello said he still has a few things on his bucket list, like commentating a Wrestlemania. But for now, the Narre Warren South resident is enjoying commentating for ONE Championship, the third most watched sports broadcasting company on the planet. He hopes his story can serve as an example of how far passion and enthusiasm can take you. “I was just a regular kid with a regular background, no formal study ad no diplomas on my wall, but I made it to the top of the TV world and sports commentating world,” Mr Schiavello said. “I’d like that to be an inspiration to anyone out there, that if you have a passion and enthusiasm you can do it. “Do what you love, and if you love it, do the best you can and no matter what anyone says keep ploughing through.” Find out more about Mr Schiavello’s book at wilkinsonpublishing.com.au/book/ the-commentators
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Thursday, 9 September, 2021
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STAR NEWS 11
NEWS
Caution call on new pets Demand for dogs and puppies at The Lost Dogs’ Home is close to exceeding supply with Victorians stuck in lockdown limbo and increasingly looking for companionship. Data released from The Lost Dogs’ Home has revealed: 416 adoptions took place in August, another month where the Home recorded its highest number in over a decade 92 dogs adopted is the most dogs adopted in a month since January 2020, and the Home’s equal fifth most since January 2019 Of those 92, 25 dogs were adopted from the Cranbourne shelter along with four puppies. The Home’s spokesperson Suzana Talevski said with more people at home, the number of dogs coming into the Cranbourne and North Melbourne shelters has fallen by around 12 per cent in the last month which meant there were less dogs to rehome. Cats and kittens were still proving popular for Melbournians with 222 felines adopted in August. Of those, 69 cats were adopted from Cranbourne, along with eight kittens. The current waiting time to adopt a cat or kitten is around 10 days.
· · ·
Lauren, customer service officer at Cranbourne, with Atticus. 249723 Ms Talevski said while it was understandable some members in the community felt frustrated at having to wait longer than desired to adopt, the Home was committed to ensuring all boxes were ticked to minimise returns post lock-down period and beyond. “We implore people to think carefully when considering adopting a pet and urge those contacting the Home to have patience and courtesy when dealing with our staff. “Verbal abuse or violence against our staff will not be tolerated in any circumstance,’’ she said.
Sally Laity, customer service team leader with Cola at the Lost Dogs’ Home Cranbourne shelter. 249723 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS
Smile! It’s doggy dress up time By Gabriella Payne If you’ve been feeling a bit blue lately, have we got the perfect remedy for you… yes that’s right, it’s doggy dress up time! Variety Australia’s annual ‘Petember’ doggy dress up competition is back bigger and better than ever, and with all of us stuck at home in lockdown, a huge number of locals are paw-ticipating in this year’s fun. For each week of September (aka ‘Petember’), entrants must come up with a fun, creative look for their pooch based around a theme - and it’s all in the name of a good cause. Berwick local Kathren Bucknell said her family and their beloved dog Maggie were thrilled to be taking part in this year’s competition, as it was a bit of much-needed fun but also a great campaign raising both money and awareness for Variety’s assistance dogs. “For me, it was a fun thing to do, but also the fact that it raises money for assistance dogs is so great,” Ms Bucknell said. “These lockdowns aren’t going to go away anytime soon, so if we can provide help for assistance dogs for other kids - not just guide dogs, but for therapy dogs and emotional support dogs - then that would be amazing.” Ms Bucknell said Maggie had joined her family during last year’s lengthy Covid lockdown and had been such an incredible support to both her and her kids during these difficult times. “Without Maggie, honestly lockdowns would have been so much harder,” she said. “My two kids adore her, they cuddle her, they come on walks (which I never thought they would) and she’s been really good for their anxiety during all the lockdowns, especially this sixth one.” “Whenever they’re upset they give her a hug, and I just see how much that’s helped,” she said. Jake Cini, another Berwick local, has also gotten into the spirit of ‘Petember’ with his beautiful dog, Sasha. After taking part in the competition last year, Mr Cini said he was inspired to do it all again as it is a fantastic cause and a great way to brighten up people’s days. “I adopted Sasha last year during the first wave of Covid. She’s a dog that has anxiety issues, so she’s a bit misunderstood, but I found that we really connected,” he said. “I’ve always liked Cosplay and stuff, so we 12 STAR NEWS
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Thursday, 9 September, 2021
Jake Cini has started his own business, Power Pooches, to help raise awareness about anxious dogs like Sasha and help other anxious dog owners in the area.
Miss Maggie is looking stunning in her red carpet look! started dressing up and going on our walks in matching costumes, and people would see us walking and wave and smile.” “And then I heard about ‘Peptember’ and thought that would be perfect for us!” he said. “Raising money for the assistance dogs is just fantastic and it gives us something to do in lockdown too.” Mr Cini said that last year, he and Sasha had managed to raise over $800 for Variety Australia and they hoped to raise even more this time around, as he had plenty of creative ideas up his sleeve. “The first week’s theme was the ‘red carpet’, so Sasha got dressed up and we did a ‘pooch party’ with two other dogs that are friends,” he said. “It’s ‘sports’ this week and she’s a Colling-
Pictures: SUPPLIED
wood supporter, so I think we’ll get her in her guernsey.” Mr Cini said that it was great to see so many people getting involved in this year’s competition as it just went to show how important doggy companionship is, particularly after the year we’ve all experienced. “All these other owners and dogs are coming together to share their experiences of how they’ve connected with their dogs, and we can look at each others stories and pictures - I just find that amazing,” he said. You can donate and keep up to date with Sasha and Jake via their page at fundraise.variety.org.au/fundraisers/sashajake Or to check out and support Maggie and Kathren’s lockdown looks, head to fundraise. variety.org.au/fundraisers/kathrenbucknell
Sasha getting ready for a big night out!
Mr Cini and Sasha - aka, spider man and spider girl, look out! cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
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STAR NEWS 13
NEWS
Residents rate council The City of Casey has scored a positive increase in its overall performance over the past year,according to the results of the 2021 Local Government Community Satisfaction Survey (CSS). The surveys were conducted in February and March this year by independent market research agency, JWS Research, with about 600 interviews among a representative sample of the community. The annual survey, which is coordinated by the Victorian Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions on behalf of Victorian Councils, asks community members in Victorian local government areas about their council facilities, services, infrastructure, community engagement and more. Despite the ongoing challenges and interruptions to some services as a result of Covid-19 restrictions, the results showed that perceptions of Casey Council’s performance have improved significantly by five index points in 2021, achieving an overall performance index score of 57 (a 10 per cent increase). Rating of the council’s performance across most service areas also improved or held steady in the past year, with waste management the area where council performed best with an index score of 71, compared with the state-wide score of 69. Sealed local roads was Council’s next highest rated service area (index score of 62, compared with 59 in 2020, a 5 per cent increase) and for the fourth consecutive year, Casey was rated significantly higher than both the statewide and interface group averages in this area. Customer service came up as an area need-
ing improvement, dropping from an index score of 73 in 2020 to 68. While Covid-19 at times impacted the ability of residents to interact with the council face-to-face and increased phone wait times, the council has promised more work will be done to ensure resources are in place to improve the community’s contact with it across all channels. The council’s overall direction and community decisions were other areas where Casey performed relatively well in 2021, compared with the previous year. City of Casey chair of administrators Noelene Duff said the annual survey was a valuable tool to gauge the feelings of the community in relation to the services and programs that the council provides and highlight areas where improvements can be made. “While council’s overall performance score has improved, we are committed to building on this across all aspects of council’s work,” Ms Duff said. “Despite the challenges we have all faced in the past year due to the Covid-19 pandemic, council has continued to deliver services and support the most vulnerable members of our community. “We will use the community feedback provided in this survey to review the way we provide services, how we communicate with our residents, and consider where improvements can be made.” The state-wide results are available in the 2021 Local Government Community Satisfaction Survey report
Residents have rated the City of Casey highly in a number of areas according to the survey’s results.
Three men charged with car part thefts By Cam Lucadou-Wells Three men have been arrested over an alleged stealing-spree of catalytic converters from under parked cars in the South East. Transit Divisional Response Unit police say 70 thefts and five attempted thefts of car parts sawn from cars at railway stations and other locations between 5 May and 24 August. Forty of the alleged thefts occurred in Greater Dandenong, with 16 in Casey, six in Kingston, four in Monash and three in Knox. The trio’s thefts also happened in Frankston, Glen Eira, Maroondah, Mornington Peninsula and Yarra Ranges. The men were arrested during four police raids on properties in Cranbourne North, Noble Park and Cranbourne on Thursday 2 September. Police say they seized tools, car jacks and clothing during the raids. Detective Acting Inspector Robert Milliken said the thefts caused “more than just inconvenience” for car owners. “These offences alone have caused about $35,000 worth of damage to the vehicles involved.” The catalytic converters, which are used to reduce emissions, are part of a vehicle’s exhaust system. Catalytic converters are reportedly sought for their precious metals platinum, palladium and rhodium, and are on-sold for cash. On online marketplaces, each part is worth at least several hundred dollars. There have been several buyers in the South East advertising for the parts on forums like Facebook Marketplace. “We know that thieves often steal car parts for cash, so to them our message is clear – if your intention is to commit crime in the vicinity of public transport, don’t bother,” Det Insp Milliken said. “You will be caught and held accountable. “We urge car owners catching the train to park in well-lit areas where possible and remove valuables from their vehicles.” 14 STAR NEWS
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Thursday, 9 September, 2021
WHAT’S ON If your community group or organisation is running an online-based activity during lockdown, email the details to dailyeditor@starnewsgroup.com.au for inclusion in our What’s On column.
Join your community choir Voices of Casey are continuing to rehearse throughout the lockdown. When lockdowns restrict in-person meetings, the choir rehearses over Zoom. On Zoom the choir is split into two ’rooms’ to make rehearsing easier and allow ongoing interaction. If you’re looking for a new hobby, a chance to practise your singing or a place to make new friends, why not join Voices of Casey - it’s Covid-safe! Rehearsals are held on Mondays from 7pm till 9.30pm at Fiddlers Green in Berwick (when allowed in-person), or otherwise over Zoom. For more information contact Paulien on 0412 741 195 or maritimes.1@hotmail.com
·
TedX comes to Casey TEDxYouth@Casey 2021 will take place at Federation University in Berwick. This is the first live event for some time and will be a dedicated youth event with a range of guest speakers. The event will be held on a yet-to-be-confirmed date. Cost is free but bookings will be required. For more information or updates, visit tedxcasey.com/
·
Community meal The undercarriage of a Commodore after a catalytic converter was stolen by thieves at Parkmore shopping centre. In early August, Star News reported on the brazen crime wave also targeting factories, workshops and a shopping centre car park in Greater Dandenong. MK Automotive’s Rob Monea said a hapless customer discovered the theft when they started their car and heard a long bang, At first he thought the muffler must have blown before he jacked up the vehicle and inspected the neatly sliced damage. A 20-year-old Cranbourne North man was charged with 32 counts of theft from
motor vehicle and attempted theft from motor vehicle. A 24-year-old Noble Park man was charged with 21 counts of theft from motor vehicle and attempted theft from motor vehicle. A 21-year-old Cranbourne man was charged with 37 counts of theft from motor vehicle and attempted theft from motor vehicle. The men were bailed to appear at the Dandenong Magistrates’ Court at a later date.
Lynbrook Community Centre is continuing to provide a nutritious meal, good company and additional supports throughout restrictions. This program is run in partnership with Casey ADRA cafe. To book your place, phone 0425 747 866.
·
Library services Casey Cardinia Library continues to provide services to the community during lockdown. Click and Collect is available Monday-Friday, 10am-4pm, no need to book. As soon as you get notification that your items are at your nominated library, head in and collect them. BYO mask. Visit cclc.vic.gov.au or phone 1800 577 548 for more information.
·
cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
FOCUS ON … R U OK DAY
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Time to ask are you OK? Anthony Byrne MP Today is Are you ok Day? An important day to check in on family and loved ones because a conversation could change a life. The Covid-19 pandemic and lockdowns have taken a toll on everyone living in the City of Casey, so chances are someone you know might be struggling with their mental health. Your support can make a difference to the challenges they are facing, big or small. Don’t wait until someone’s visibly distressed or in crisis. Make a moment meaningful and ask them how they’re really going. I had the lived experience of this when we had a suicide cluster in the Casey region in 2011 and 2012. There was a sense of great helplessness and fear in the community - helplessness about what to do including, in fact, how to even safely discuss what was happening. In mid 2012 I sought the assistance of Prof Patrick McGorry on the best approach to have a public discussion about what was happening. With his advice we conducted a forum that was covered by Four Corners, in their program entitled “There is No 3G in Heaven”. At the forum we heard from parents who had lost a child to suicide describe the impact of their loss of their child and what we could do to prevent further losses of our children.
Anthony Byrne asks ‘Are You Ok?’ 250114 We lobbied and achieved two Headspaces and two early psychosis support hubs. We achieved something substantial together as a community. To address the severe mental health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdowns I am convening another mental health and wellbeing forum via Zoom on Thursday 16 September 2021 from 6:30pm to 8:30pm with Professor Patrick McGorry AO, 2010 Australian of the Year. To participate, please register by emailing your name, address, email and mobile number to anthony@anthonybyrnemp.com or call 8790 0556.
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HOLT MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLBEING FORUM – VIA ZOOM
The COVID-19 Pandemic and lockdowns have placed an enormous toll on everyone’s mental health. To provide support to local residents Hon Anthony Byrne MP, Federal Member for Holt, is hosting a Zoom Session with Professor Patrick McGorry AO, 2010 Australian of the Year. THURSDAY 16TH SEPTEMBER 2021
6:30PM START to 8:30PM To participate, please register by emailing your Name, THURSDAY Address, Email and Mobile Number to anthony@anthonybyrnemp.com or call 8790 0556. 16TH SEPTEMBER 2021 6:30PM START to 8:30PM
Authorised by Anthony Byrne, ALP, Shop 7, 1060 Thompsons Rd, Cranbourne West VIC 3977.
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The COVID-19 Pandemic and lockdowns have placed an enormous toll on everyone’s mental health. To provide support to local residents Hon Anthony Byrne MP, Federal Member for Holt, is hosting a Zoom Session with Professor Patrick McGorry AO, 2010 Australian of the Year.
To participate, please register by emailing your Name, Address, Email and Mobile Number to anthony@anthonybyrnemp.com or call 8790 0556. Authorised by Anthony Byrne, ALP, Shop 7, 1060 Thompsons Rd, Cranbourne West VIC 3977. cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
Thursday, 9 September, 2021
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STAR NEWS 15
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Bounce into Spring with the chance to
WIN a $1000 Woolworth’s gift card! But, you must be in it to win it! Scan the QR Code for more details or go to starcommunity.com.au/competitions NOW! Entries close Noon Tuesday September 28, 2021 Spring into action and invite your friends to enter too! 16 STAR NEWS
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Thursday, 9 September, 2021
cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
Caitlin, Sarah and Jess from Mr Black Juicery Berwick, ‘smizing’ behind their masks. 249751
Cage and her mum Fontaine enjoy their outdoor time at Banjo Paterson Reserve Lynbrook. 249751
Sharing the positives By Danielle Kutchel Let’s be honest: it’s a tough time right now. But there are still positives in the little things. Star News photographer STEWART CHAMBERS went hunting for some this week as we mark R U OK Day, and found plenty of locals still doing their best to put smiles on other people’s faces in their own special ways.
Steven with a smoothie at Mr Black Juicery Berwick. Stay healthy over lockdown! 249751
Tommy in Blackburne Square Berwick, seeing the sights. 249751
Kelsey making a coffee at Gloria Jean’s Berwick - because who doesn’t love the warmth of a hot drink. 249751 cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
Click and collect time! Georgia Sheers from Emma Marie Fashion Emporium with customer Lisa O’Sullivan. It’s like a present to yourself! 249751 Thursday, 9 September, 2021
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STAR NEWS 17
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The peop le receiving of Cranbourne are hospital identificat care close a step closer to ion of a bourne Com preferred to home, with the site for the munity Hosp CranParliamen tary Secre ital. McGhie, tary for was joine Health, line Richa d by Cran Steve Tuesday rds and Bass MP bourne MP Pau9 Jordan Crug of land at February to anno nale on bourne 65 Berwick-Cranb unce that a parce East, had ourn l ferred site. been selec e Road, Cran ted as the The prefe preCasey Com rred site is withi n the so-ca Commun plex and takes ity Centre. in the Balla lled Now that Balla the prefe sen, the City of Case rred site has process been choy will enga to “disp ge in ose” hospital of the land the formal can be so that According built. the to the that the Balla Balla City of Casey, this displaced Commun within ten ity Centre means years. will be Conversat ions with about its the comm future are unity centr submission ongoing, e s on the open. sale of the and community site will soon be Ms Richa rds said Complex the land had been criteria”. chosen beca in the Casey use it “fits She said the Cranbour getting a community ne was “fortunat the grow e” to be hospital ing comm in the centr unity. A comm e of Margie Raman, unity cons Pauline Richa Leaver of lobbied ultative the Vic Healt for rds committee members the hospital for h Building MP, Judy Davis, Liz has Authority Barton, Steve ect woul said they were pleasseveral years and safe, weatherp celebrate d soon McGh roof entry ed that the the choo Ms Barto points for sing of the ie MP, Jordan Crugn Committe begin. projn said the elder site. 22790 ale MP, David bourne e mem she has new hosp ly. ing change 7 watched Ballantyne existing ital woul ber Judy Davi over 50 Cran- will s said the country town hosp d give peop of Monash “This is to a majo years from a be managed ital services in Health and le metropoli small r growth the regio town anym going to help. We’re hope. tan need Deanne by Monash corridor n, and s and not a Health. “This is with an The services provi ulation,” ore - we’ve got a huge bonu requirements. such a growlittle hick nity she said. ded at the expansion goes,” she s as far as ing popof Liz Barto those curre new site will Mon said of the the comm ash Heal be ntly The new munity consn, a retired nurs th u- Care Cranbour hospital. Centre andat the Cranbour provided by e and ultan tal ne Integ will take major hosp With a back t on the comm fellow com- serviwill provide integ ne Commun rated pressure ittee, agree itals - enab rated comm ity Hospi- critic ground ces, spec hopes to d. in build ialist al care ling them off nearby unity healt be of the hosp able to have inpu ing design, she care, mental healt appointments, to focus h gency care and acute healt on diagnostic paed h services, and more h issues, pose” - fromital to ensure that t over the desig dental serviiatric procedures. emercomplex n after-hou pathology and it is “fit things like surgeries ces, linen, to rs urgen for purimaging, stora It’s expe the size and dialysis, cted of lifts and ge for infectious bilitation services.t care, day surge ry and reha- later this year, that construct the provi It will servi ion sion of with the 2024. ce the grow Cranbour hospital will begin th to open ne and Cranbour Clyde whilscorridor around in ne Commun t compleme 10 new nt- state community hosp ity Hospital is one governme itals nt, at a cost being built by of The site of the the Cranb new of $66 milli ourne East. community hosp on. ital in 227907 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS
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There will be no more local football or netball in 2021. 242702
Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS
Leagues left to ponder By Nick Creely and David Nagel It was inevitable, but now it’s official. There will be no more local football and netball in 2021, with the latest lockdown extension until at least the 23rd of September dispelling all hopes that a finals series could be possible, with leagues now set to turn their attention to 2022, and hopefully no more disruptions after two Covid-riddled seasons. After no competitions in 2020, and just half a season in 2021, it’s a bitter blow for sportstarved communities. Ongoing uncertainty surrounding the longterm duration of the current Covid-lockdown - and subsequent restrictions - has caused the West Gippsland Football Netball Competition (WGFNC) to abandon its 2021 season effective immediately. The WGFNC released the following statement on Friday, 3 September, acknowledging the difficult situation facing all governing bodies of community sport in Victoria. “On the back of Wednesday’s state government announcement to extend the lockdown in metropolitan Melbourne the WGFNC, in consultation with member clubs, will abandon all grades of football and netball for the 2021 season“, the WGFNC statement reads. “Despite the intention of the WGFNC to complete a 2021 finals series, the current restrictions, and no clear timeline on easement of restrictions has forced the decision. “The WGFNC are committed to working closely with their member clubs, AFL Victoria, AFL Gippsland, and Netball Victoria to manage the associated issues related to the cancellation of all competition and working towards a return to play next season. “The teams who finished on top of the WGFNC ladder will be recognised as the 2021 minor premiers and the 2021 Best and Fairest cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
Vote Counts will take place online with presentations to be arranged in due course. “We wish to take this opportunity to thank all clubs, players, parents, volunteers, officials, umpires and league partners for your patience, support, and cooperation throughout the 2021 season.“ On Thursday 2 September, the Metropolitan Melbourne leagues - Eastern Football Netball League, Essendon District, Northern Football League, Southern Football League, Riddell District, VAFA, Western Region and South Metro Juniors issued a joint statement to get the ball rolling, confirming that they have mutually agreed to end all 2021 competitions. “This decision is an extremely difficult one and has not been made lightly,” the statement read. “All leagues have been working diligently in the hope of enabling the remaining games in the 2021 season to be played. “However, it is now apparent this will not be possible in the current environment.” The Metro leagues said it was now time to focus on a return to play next year. “All leagues are committed to working closely with their member clubs, AFL Victoria and Netball Victoria to manage the associated issues related to the cancellation of all 2021 competitions and working towards a return to play next season,” the statement read. “We wish to take this opportunity to thank all clubs, players, parents, volunteers, officials, umpires and league partners for your patience, support and cooperation throughout the 2021 season. “We urge all associated with our respective communities to heed the advice and regulations in place by order of the State Government. “We all have a role to play in ensuring our
community remains safe and healthy so we can all return to football and netball next season.” The AFL Outer East announced on Friday morning that its senior and junior competitions are cancelled for 2021, informing clubs on Thursday night. “While we understand this is an extremely disappointing decision, which was not made lightly, Outer East has exhausted all avenues possible in the hope of enabling the remaining games in the 2021 season to be played,” the league said. “Across September, we will be releasing and announcing our players awards for season 2021 to recognise the achievements of players across our various competitions. “We would like to take this opportunity to thank all clubs, players, parents, volunteers, officials, umpires and league partners for your patience, support, and cooperation throughout the 2021 season.” AFL South East has also made the difficult decision to pull the pin on 2021, announcing that its competitions will be cancelled effective immediately. This applies to competitions such as the Mornington Peninsula Nepean Football League, South Eastern Womens, South East Juniors, Frankston District Junior Football League, and AFL South East Top Age football. “This is an extremely difficult decision and we had continued to hold hope that we would be able to complete our season,” AFL South East said. “However, it has become clear over the last 24 hours that it will not be possible to return to football in the Greater Melbourne area in the near future. “We wish to thank all club officials, players, volunteers, umpires and our partners for their
willingness to remain flexible and for their understanding throughout the whole year in very difficult circumstances.” The AFL has also announced that the VFL season will officially be called off. Despite trying valiantly to find a way to navigate a finals series, ongoing lockdown and state border closures have made it impossible for football to find a way through. Footscray has been recognised as the 2021 VFL minor premiers, but there will be no premier or Liston Medal awarded. “The 2021 season saw multiple schedule changes, several match cancellations, postponements and weeks of hiatus for many clubs, and all clubs, players, officials and umpires should be congratulated for their relentless pursuit to play matches,” AFL Head of Talent Pathways and State League Competitions Tristan Salter said. “All levels of the game across Australia have been impacted by the health pandemic this year and it has been another challenging year for everyone connected to football. “Footy clubs are the heartbeat of many local communities and the identity of our clubs and our league will not be defined by the outcome of the 2020 and 2021 season.” The Ellinbank and District Football League has also cancelled its 2021 senior competitions due to the lockdown extension. “As we played half a season it is very disappointing there was not a satisfactory conclusion to the senior season however all persons involved with senior football cannot put up with the uncertainty of indefinite lockdown extensions any longer - hence the season is called off,” the league said. However, the EDFL has left the door slightly ajar for potential junior finals, if the lockdown is lifted in Regional Victoria.
Thursday, 9 September, 2021
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STAR NEWS 21
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Deck shuffles in the DDCA By Nick Creely Amidst all of the uncertainty surrounding Covid-19, it’s been a bumper off-season in the Dandenong District Cricket Association, with some big name recruits set to bolster the competition when community sport is given the green light to resume. Here are some of the signings and departures from the top two grades with cricket hopefully not too far away: TURF 1 Runners-up Berwick have been busy, both with recruits and departures, with Wookey Medal winner Ruwantha Kellepotha off to Premier Cricket to try his hand with Casey-South Melbourne, while Brendan Rose is another notable departure with the reliable paceman off to Richmond in a coaching-playing role at the Premier club. Cory Bevan (Knoxfield) and Josh Holden (Buckley Ridges) are two reliable players who’ve also departed the Cave. But the Bears have landed three big names as they look to once again remain in the premiership hunt, with ex-Tasmanian quick Andrew Perrin returning to the club after winning a premiership with Prahran in a major coup that will bolster the bowling, while talented leggie Riley Siwes comes across from Dandenong West where he will help fill the void left by Kellepotha. Mordialloc premiership skipper and champion keeper-batsman Damith Mapa Ralage is also bound for Arch Brown Reserve as he seeks a fresh change of scenery. Buckley Ridges have undergone some changes to its playing list with coach Chanaka Welegedara departing, while their pro pair, Benny Howell and Ian Cockbain won’t return and champion all-rounder Daniel ‘DJ’ Watson is also 50/50 to play for the club this season. But the Bucks always have something up their sleeve and have landed quick Nimesh Kariyawasam from North Dandenong as well as batsman Josh Holden from Berwick. It has also landed former Glamorgan batsman and ex-England Under 19 player Ben Wright as the club’s new skipper, in a huge signing for the club and competition. Narre South are also hoping it has the cattle to compete for the Turf 1 flag this season, but will need to do so without star pair Josh Dowling and Scott Phillips, who have both departed Strathaird Recreation Reserve.But the Lions are hopeful that Jersey international gun Jonty Jenner can return to the club to help bolster the batting, while hard-hitting top order batsman Harsha De Silva joins the club from West Coburg. Springvale South - as they usually are - have had a bumper off-season, with two star quicks, Josh Dowling, and ex-State and BBL paceman Jayde Herrick linking up with the Bloods in what is a potent new-ball duo in the making. Star all-rounder Blade Baxter, who most recently has been performing strongly in the Northern Territory, has also joined the club
Josh Dowling has departed Narre South, joining Springvale South. 230556 from Ormond. Mitch Forsyth has also returned to the club after a stint with Dandenong and will add plenty of class through the middle order. Spots will be tough to obtain in the Turf 1 side down at Harold Road. The Bloods have lost a few, however, with destructive all-rounder Nathan King off to Lakes Entrance as captain-coach after he moved to East Gippsland, champion batsman Clint Tomlinson has retired after a short stint, while Stephen Hennessy has departed for Keysborough. St Mary’s have been busy locking away its senior list and are looking incredibly stable under skipper Wendyl Pires, but have added a quality recruit with top order batsman Nanayakkarawasam Kalumshehara signing on after two strong seasons for North Dandenong. TURF 2 Cranbourne has had a fairly busy off-season, with the Eagles landing attacking wicketkeeper batsman Matt Collett from Dandenong West, with the top-order batsman a quality addition. But it’s been Heinz Southern Districts who
have really gone on a substantial recruitment drive after a tough Turf 1 season in 2020/21, with a scattering of new names down at the Snakepit. Under new coach Craig Hookey who has joined the club from Cranbourne, the Cobras have been busy, landing Matt Blanch (Frankston Peninsula), leg-spinner Maheesha Gamage (Casey-South Melbourne), all-rounder Jason Ward (Richmond), gun paceman and former Victorian Under 19 player Triyan De Silva from Dandenong who has first XI experience at Premier level, as well as off-spinner Jordan Margenberg from Cranbourne. As previously mentioned, Keysborough has bolstered its batting with the signing of Stephen Hennessy from Springvale South, with the top-order batsman expected to really relish his opportunity after mixing between the first and second XIs at the Bloods. And the Parkmore Pirates have also steadily locked away the majority of its playing list and looms as a side to watch, but have added toporder batsman Abhinav Bhatia who took out Coomoora’s club champion award last season after a sensational individual season.
Picture: ROB CAREW
Triyan De Silva is a quality addition to HSD. Picture: COURTESY OF ARJ GIESE/CRICKET VICTORIA
Cranbourne’s Peninsula Cup tempter - win and you’re in! Melbourne Racing Club and Cranbourne Turf Club are joining forces to bolster the tailend of the Spring Racing Carnival making the Neds Peninsula Cup (1600m) a win-andyou’re-in to the first standalone $500,000 TAB Cranbourne Cup (1600m). In light of Racing Victoria’s recent programming changes, the two predominant racing clubs in Melbourne’s Southeast have identified the win-and-in concept as a natural progression for the winner of the Neds Peninsula Cup on Sunday 31 October to advance to the TAB Cranbourne Cup two weeks later on Saturday 13 November. Despite the changing of ratings over the years, the Neds Peninsula Cup has some excellent winners and placegetters over the journey with recent winners having performed strongly at their subsequent starts, with some going on to become stakes level performers. The recent honour roll includes; 2020-Kenya, 2019-Danon Roman, 2018-Royal Ace, 2017-Raghu, 2016-Master Reset, 2015-Inspector and 2014 Red Bomber. 22 STAR NEWS
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Thursday, 9 September, 2021
Future Score takes out $400,000 Cranbourne Cup for jockey Fred Kersley and trainer Matt Picture: ROSS HOLBURT/RACING PHOTOS Cumani last year. 249364 MRC Executive Director of Racing and Operations Jake Norton said forming a relationship with these two races is a mutually
beneficial move for both clubs. “The Club is no stranger to pushing for innovation and identifying opportunities
for the betterment of racing and teaming up with Cranbourne Turf Club on this win-andin concept is one of them,” said Norton. “This extra incentive will hopefully benefit the Peninsula Cup by boosting the size of the field, which has struggled for numbers but not for quality in recent years, and we’ll no doubt see it become an attractive path for connections to pursue with their horses.” Cranbourne Turf Club CEO Neil Bainbridge said that Cranbourne was delighted to partner with the MRC to further strengthen racing in the south east during the Spring Racing Carnival. “The club is determined to deliver the best TAB Cranbourne Cup ever in its exciting new timeslot and is pleased to formally establish the pathway from the Peninsula Cup to the Cranbourne Cup,” Bainbridge said. The recent honour roll of Cranbourne Cup winners includes; 2020-Future Score, 2019-Dr Drill, 2018-Octabello, 2017-Folkswood, 2015-Digitalism, 2014-Mourinho, 2013-Pakal, 2012-Midnight Martini and 2011 Boom ‘N’ Zoom. cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
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Sports of no sorts By Nick Creely Football Victoria (FV) has confirmed that all of its Metropolitan Melbourne competitions have been cancelled for 2021 after the latest extension of the Covid-19 lockdown. With many of the planned scenarios eliminated in recent weeks, FV had no choice but to make the announcement, and set it sights on an uninterrupted 2022 season. This applies to the NPL Womens (NPLW including Senior & U19), Victorian Premier League Womens, Womens State League, NPL Junior Girls, NPL Junior Boys, NPL Mens (NPL NPL2, NPL3, including Senior, U21 and U19), Mens State League, Mens Metropolitan and Masters, Metropolitan Community Juniors (U12-U21) and Metropolitan MiniRoos (U7U11) competitions. The south-east is a soccer rich region, hosting a vast range of clubs in these competitions, including the Dandenong Thunder, Dandenong City and Doveton SC which play in the NPL. FV released a statement, expressing its utter disappointment at the cancellation of the season. “2021 has certainly been another year of ups and downs for our state, and for football,” the statement read. “We brushed off the cobwebs of 2020 and saw a positive return to football in 2021, enjoying some exhilarating runs of play, giving us all hope that we could complete the football season. “But COVID-19 has proved to be a truly fierce adversary and, sadly, we once again find ourselves in a very challenging landscape for football.” “We would like to express our gratitude to our football community, who have engaged in roundtable discussions, completed surveys and provided direct feedback to the team, all of which has been absolutely essential for us to best align with the needs of our community.” FV has, however, left the door ajar for a possible return to play for Regional Victoria, should the lockdown lift in time. “We are so pleased that there is still the possibility for players in Regional Victoria to return to football, once Government restrictions allow and subject to FV’s Return to Play conditions,” FV said.
Casey South Melbourne opener Ashley Chandrasinghe batting last season. 231267 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS
Ash on fire By Nick Creely
Community sport such as soccer has been cancelled. 235198 Basketball Victoria has also made the tough call to cancel its competitions, with the Big V, NBL1 South, and VJBL seasons all ending. The Big V competition, which hosts local outfits such as the Pakenham Warriors and Casey Cavaliers, released a statement saying it did everything it could to get basketball up and running. “While the league’s intent was to play finals and grand finals at the start of September, the extended lockdown has removed all available weeks remaining in the schedule to accommodate the return to the season,” the statement read. “An unfortunate ending to a remarkable season, with players, coaches, team staff and administrators having navigated every up and down along the road to put the best possible product on the court each (available) week. “Following the cancellation of the season
Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS
and no finals series, there will be no 2021 championship winners declared.” The Dandenong Baseball Association (DBA), where the Pakenham Pumas and Berwick City Cougars play, previously announced on 21 August that its Winter Season would be cancelled effective immediately. “This decision has not come lightly, and it certainly isn’t the decision we wanted to make,” DBA said. “Further delays in lockdowns and restrictions, together with the unknowns of when and how we can return to baseball in the near future were major factors in this decision process, as well as the consideration for our members safety out in the community. “We understand that this decision will come hard to our clubs and our members, especially given the season has presented many challenges.”
Storm supporting Indigenous journeys Coles has extended its First Nations pathways program and support of indigenous aspiring athletes, partnering with the Melbourne Storm to help young Indigenous rugby league players realise their dreams of becoming an NRL player in the future. The three-year partnership builds on Coles’ indigenous programs and includes support for education, employment and health and wellbeing outcomes. Storm CEO Justin Rodski said the Storm First Nations Pathway Program would provide emerging indigenous talent with the unique opportunity to have a full immersive experience at the club, focusing on professional and personal development, mentoring, elite training and preparation. The partnership was officially launched at Melbourne Storm training by three of Melbourne’s current day Indigenous stars, Josh Addo-Carr, Reimis Smith and Nicho Hynes, as the program’s firs participants were announced in front of the playing group. The inaugural indigenous talent identified to be selected for the program are Ammaron (AJ) Gudgeon, a 19-year-old Noongar man, who has been playing for the CQ Capras in Rockhampton; and Seamus King-Smith, a 19-year-old Kulkalgal man from the Northern Pride, based in Cairns. They will be part of Storm’s 2022 NRL preseason, giving them the opportunity to work with coach Craig Bellamy and his coaching staff and alongside the NRL squad. “We’re very excited and proud to be launching this program and partnership with Coles over an initial three-year period,” Storm CEO Justin Rodski said. “Coles, like our organisation, is genuine and committed to supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
As the scores keep flowing off the bat of the prodigiously talented Ashley Chandrasinghe, the noise is only going to get louder for the Casey-South Melbourne star opener. The left-hander - who plundered 669 runs last season for the Swans in a remarkable breakout season - has continued on his merry way in the Victorian off-season up in the Northern Territory, crossing past 1000 runs for the season. On the weekend, Chandrasinghe struck an absolutely sublime 156 from 213 balls in the Darwin District competition semi-final for Waratah, backing up his brilliant 172 the week prior. In the pressure-cooker that is finalscricket, Chandrasinghe looked unfazed, bringing up the back-to-back tons with a crisp pull-shot to help guide his side into this weekend’s grand final against Southern Districts. Chandrasinghe also struck an unbeaten 59 to guide his club to the one-day premiership, and was also prominent in the Twenty20 grand final, combining his commitments with a strong stint for the Southern Storm in the TIO Men’s Strike League and in the Top End Series, which featured some of the finest talents in the country. His most impressive performance for the Northern Territory came in a clash against the Cricket Australia XI featuring a bowling attack featuring state players Liam Guthrie, Chris Tremain and Jack Edwards, where Chandrasinghe struck 86 from 111 balls in what was a thrilling tied match. Chandrasinghe’s Waratah - which also features talented local youngster Yash Pednekar - takes on the Southern Districts for the premiership this weekend, with the match to be live streamed from 12:30pm on Saturday and Sunday.
CHANDRASINGHE’S SEASON IN THE NORTHERN TERRITORY:
Melbourne Storm Indigenous players Reimis Smith, Josh Addo-Carr and Nicho Hynes with inaugural Storm First Nations Pathway Program members Ammaron (AJ) Gudgeon from the and Seamus King-Smith. Picture: MELBOURNE STORM right across Australia. “By creating a First Nations talent pathway, and utilising the resources we have here at Storm, we hope more Indigenous kids will have NRL careers and hopefully many will be wearing our famous purple jersey. “This is a first for our club and is part of a broad range of initiatives and programs we will be focusing on into the future, including starting our new health-focussed partnership with Deadly Choices. “The partnership with Coles is groundbreaking and reflects both organisations’ investment into providing mentoring and professional development opportunities for young
talent in indigenous communities and providing a worthwhile immersion experience in Melbourne to support their footballing dreams. “Our recruitment and development staff will identify those players with potential and then they will get an opportunity to be immersed in our club, learning and developing their skills, on and off the field, in an elite environment.” The Storm First Nations Pathway Program aligns with the Coles Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander plan established in 2010 and launched in 2011 to drive Indigenous employment, supply chain and partnerships.
Waratah CC (Darwin District Cricket Competition) Innings by Innings 1 25 7 22no (Twenty20) 36no 34no (Twenty20) 85 59no (One Day grand final) 36no (1Twenty20) 10 27 (Twenty20 grand final) 99 28 172 156 Southern Storm (TIO Men’s Strike League One Day) 36 9 44 35 14 Southern Storm (TIO Men’s Strike League T20) 10 27 35no 28no Northern Territory (Top End Series) 86 31 10 28 innings 1162 runs at 55.33 Two centuries, three half-centuries
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STAR NEWS 23
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