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Thursday, 2 December, 2021

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Christmas in Cardinia and the country Make this festive season extra special by shopping locally for all your gifts, foods and entertainment. Dive into our Christmas in Cardinia and the country liftout for plenty of ideas to cater for the entire family this year. Remember to support the local businesses you love! Pictured: Harry, Rory (back row), Stevie, Thea, Gus (middle) and Ellis, Quinn and Joe (front) get creative for Christmas at Robert Gordon Pottery, with workshops for all ages.

Located in the heart of Pakenham, our factory outlet makes for the perfect day out. We oﬀer a large selection of ceramics, baskets and textiles, with an on-site cafe and private studio space, in which we host a variety of creative classes. 114 Mulcahy Rd Pakenham 3810 Vic @robertgordonoutlet @nancyeatery

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EAT. SHOP. PAINT.

CHRISTMAS IN CARDINIA

Feeling joy with flowers Floral arrangements are a perfect way to add some colour to your Yule time table. Ensure your house is looking its festive, floral best with these popular blooms: Lilies Lilies and amaryllis are always a popular

BATTERY ZONE Batteries for Everything Wishing our customers a

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Merry Christmas

Offering home delivery and click and collect! Shop 3/206 Princes H’way, Pakenham pakenham@batteryzone.com.au | Ph: 5940 1364

choice at Christmas in a variety of colours. Many varieties have a beautiful scent that will perfume your home. They can be placed in an arrangement with other flowers or in a vase on their own and prefer to be kept away from direct sunlight in a cool environment. Remember though that lilies are extremely toxic to cats, causing acute renal failure, so think twice before gifting them to your cat-loving friend and keep them out of reach of your own felines. Poinsettia The poinsettia has come to symbolise Christmas, and with its bright red and green foliage it’s not hard to see why. They are commonly found in pots, ready to adorn a table or bench in your house. However, they can be finicky; they don’t like too much water, but take care also to not let them dry out. If the leaves begin to turn yellow and fall off, you may not be watering it correctly. They’re native to Mexico, so they also prefer warmth and light, and make sure to protect them from wind and draughts to keep them happy for the Christmas season. Rosemary It might not be the first plant that comes to mind when you think of Christmas, but this Mediterranean herb is actually perfect for an Australian Christmas. It’s easy to grow and care for, and fills the air with a mouth-watering perfume. It can be pruned into a Christmas tree shape if desired, and best of all, pairs deliciously well with the Christmas roast.

Electronic gifts in focus No matter how you look at Christmas, Eddy, Darren and Jenny have your interests in focus at Roylaines Photo and Electronics/Jaycar Pakenham. 260031

Your one stop shop to Christmas gifts this Christmas 12522584-DL48-21

ENROLMENTS NOW OPEN FOR 2022, WITH LIMITED VACANCIES. Cardinia Lakes Early Learning Centre Child Care and Governement Funded Kindergarten Ages 6 weeks to 5 years

Shop 3/2 Beaconsfield / Emerald Rd Beaconsfield, VIC, Australia 3807

Open 6.30am - 7.00pm Book a tour today! P: 9066 1144 E: manager@cardinialakeselc.com.au W: www.cardinialakeselc.com.au A: 3 Atlantic Dr, Pakenham

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MARVEL /DC/COMICS AND MUCH MORE

Visit us online: www.secrethqcomics.com.au

Happy Christmas from the Team at the Great Australian Bakehouse

e hav e r W you all tmas is Chr urites o fav

145 Main Street, Pakenham 12525303-NG49-21

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Thursday, 2 December, 2021

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas 148 Main Street, Pakenham - 03 5941 1562 16 Smith Street Warragul - 03 5623 4255 12525297-DL49-21

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CHRISTMAS IN CARDINIA

Turn a hand at pottery Anyone can get creative at Robert Gordon, with workshops for all ages. If you’ve never worked with ceramics before you needn’t worry. Friendly staff are on-hand to show you how. Robert Gordon offers workshops in wheel throwing, handbuilding and paint your own pottery. The paint your own pottery workshop is popular with families. All you have to do is choose your pot, decorate with paint and collect your masterpiece 14 days later. If you’re after something more extensive, you should check out Robert Gordon’s sixweek pottery course. The course covers hand building, wheel throwing, moulding, sculpture and painting in a friendly atmosphere. The workshops take place in a new studio space at Robert Gordon Pottery factory outlet. Located in the heart of Pakenham, the outlet is a great place to visit with the family. They have a large selection of homewares, baskets and textiles. There’s also the Nancy Eatery, which serves up relaxed, homestyle meals with beautiful coffee. Robert Gordon is located at 114 Mulcahy Road, Pakenham and is open 7 days 9am-5pm. Online bookings for the Paint Your Own Pottery and workshops are essential. Phone 03 5941 3302. www.robertgordonaustralia.com Children can get creative at Robert Gordon Pottery.

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(03) 9113 4616 contact@synergyitservices.com.au www.synergyitservices.com.au

0493 231 828 E: contact@thepakyexpress.com.au www.thepakyexpress.com.au

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On Campus Principal Tours Tuesday 5pm Thursday 5pm 12525277-BL49-21

Limited vacancies for Prep 2022

Merry Christmas Safe and Happy New Year

P: 5941 7544 E: enrolments@lakeside.vic.edu.au W: www.lakeside.vic.edu.au 7544 2 Portobello Rd, Pakenham VIC5941 3810

enrolments@lakeside.vic.edu.au

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Empowering each learner to thrive, serve and succeed, inspired by the love of Christ

www.lazyfroggifts.com.au | 109 Main Street Pakenham | 5941 2225 Thursday, 2 December, 2021

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Boutique gem cafe Treat yourself to breakfast, brunch or lunch, six days a week at Little Miss Hangry, a boutique cafe at Garfield set in a converted cottage.

MEN OF STYLE Quality Menswear OPEN SUNDAYS until XMAS 10am – 3pm SPOIL HIM THIS XMAS WITH QUALITY MENSWEAR

Discovery Centre delights

Pakenham 5940 1103

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138 Main St,

St Patrick’s School Pakenham, is fortunate to have an excellent Discovery Centre that houses one to one Chrome Books and iPads for each student which amplifies student skills in navigating essential technologies and applications. Here Georgie checks out one of the items. 228312

Little Miss Hangry specialises in local ingredients with a seasonal menu. 259969

Surprise your family with a real Tree from Dandenong Christmas Tree Farm this Christmas! There is nothing like that fresh smell of a real tree and Star News is giving one lucky reader that experience this Christmas! The winner will receive an up to 7 foot tree and a stand to suit from our friends at the Dandenong Christmas Tree Farm at 336 Brown Road, Officer

FEDERAL MEMBER FOR LA TROBE

3/16 Langmore Lane, Berwick VIC 3806 9768 9164 jason.wood.mp@aph.gov.au jasonwood.com.au JasonWood.Updates

Authorised by J Wood, Liberal Party of Australia, Unit 3/16 Langmore Ln, Berwick VIC 3806. 4W STAR NEWS

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Your favourite festive ornaments and wrapped Christmas presents look so much better on a real tree...

To ENTER simply scan the QR CODE for details or visit starcommunity.com.au/competitions 12525256-NG49-21

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CHRISTMAS IN CARDINIA

Express travel to airport By Shelby Brooks Coinciding with the reopening of interstate and international borders, a Pakenham driver is hoping to help locals with the first leg of their journeys. Steve Davies has launched his new business The Paky Express, which will provide a bus service from Pakenham, Officer, Beaconsfield and Narre Warren to Melbourne Airport. After working as a ride share driver for six years, Steve said he saw the need for a shuttle service originating from the Cardinia area. “There’s nothing here for people to get to the airport,“ he said. “Not unless you want to pay over $150 for an Uber, $250 for a taxi or get someone to

drive you which could cost them at least $50 in petrol. “Getting the Paky Express has got to be a no-brainer for people.“ Steve will charge $55 for a one way trip and $99 return. For every extra person in your party, the price lowers by $5. “So for the second passenger, they’ll be $50, the third $45,“ he said. The brand new commercial passenger vehicle is ready to go and Steve is hoping as travel ramps up, so will his new business. “We’re catering for affordability and convenience for transport to the airport for this side of town,“ Steve said. To learn more, head to thepakyexpress. com.au.

Hop aboard the Paky Express. 255712

It’s a horse-lover’s heaven in the heart of Bunyip Whether it be reins, stirrups or saddle accessories, equestrian lovers look no further than On Ya Horse Supplies. Owner Kira Betchley started her independently run business having been a long time horse enthusiast and having had a strong passion for all equestrian sports. “I have ridden and been around horses since I was very young and have always worked in the retail industry. So why not put all the experience together and open my own shop forwhat I love most in this world - horses!”

If you are looking for horsey Christmas gifts, then look no further. Now stocking a fresh new collection of Peter Williams riding apparel. Every horse’s needs are covered at On Ya Horse, whether it be for show jumping, dressage or eventing. Horseware, saddlery, grooming and stable products, apparel, western wear, footwear and accessories can all be found at this Bunyip based business. “[We] also have a niche selection of home decor items and accessories such as some

stunning metal wall arts which make a lovely outdoor feature on the stables, house or barn,” Kira said. Buy online or head in store to Shop 2, 1-3 Main Street Bunyip. They are open Monday to Friday 9.20am to 5pm and Saturdays 10am to 4pm. Kira aims to have an ever changing rotation of products to ensure customers are kept up to date with what is new on the market. Questions about products or services can be sent to sales@onyahorse.com.au or call 0425 842 314.

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Thursday, 2 December, 2021

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CHRISTMAS IN CARDINIA

Event dates The state-of-the-art performing, visual arts, and function centre are set to be transformed into an immersive and interactive Christmas wonderland featuring digital artworks, live bands, and workshops from Tuesday 7 December to Friday 24 December. Main events, which will take place from Wednesday 15 December, include: Tranquil Main Gallery, Cardinia Cultural Centre Immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit as the main gallery of the Cardinia Cultural Centre comes to life with real-time Christmas-themed

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projections. Tranquil will feature three festive environments inspired by the magic of Christmas, including: An arctic oasis, featuring a landform directly inspired by the North Pole. Elf’s rest, showcasing a shack interior where Santa’s elves rest and recuperate. The world tree: a fantasy land where the Christmas tree stands in the middle of all creation. Warp The Zone, Cardinia Cultural Centre A fun, house of mirrors styled interactive installation for children to experience a warped and stylized reflection of themselves that is only limited by their imagination and movement! Pulse The Zone, Cardinia Cultural Centre Have you ever wondered what a musician’s voice would look like? Watch as our audio-reactive projections create artistic visuals based on the voices of our live musicians. Please note bookings are not required for main events. For more information about workshops, including how to book your place, visit www. whatsoncardinia.com.au. Please note these events will be run in line with COVID-19 restrictions. For more information about current restrictions, head to www. coronavirus.vic.gov.au.

Saddle up for Christmas The Trading Stables’ Christmas carpark sale is happening on Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 December with great savings on their range of new and used equestrian equipment. Staff offer skilled, professional advice and information gained from many years of hands-on experience within the showing, dressage, pony club, carriage driving, natural horsemanship, show jumping, stock and western disciplines. Their objective has always been to provide a more cost effective alternative for all horse owners and parents of children entering into the horse world, without compromising on quality. Carpark sale savings include 20 per cent off storewide, and up to 50 per cent off clothing and footwear. The Trading Stables offer a range of saddles, including all purpose, dressage, jumping, stock, half breed, and Western, riding apparel, jeans and hats, rugs and horsewear and a full range of grooming products. They also buy or trade-in used saddlery and offer a saddle fitting service by qualified fitters. Saddle trials are available on secondhand saddles to ensure the correct fit for your horse, and scoot boot fittings are also available. Open from 9am-5.30pm Monday to Friday and 9am-2pm on Saturdays and Sundays, The Trading Stables are based at 1 Tivendale Road, Officer.

The Trading Stables’ Christmas car park sale is coming up with bargains on everything for the horse lover.

KOO WEE RUP SECONDARY COLLEGE TOURS We invite Grade 5 & 6 Students and Parents to take our virtual tour which can be found on our website, or alternatively please contact the College to book an on-site tour. For further information, please contact Mr Todd Slater (Assistant Principal) or Ms Lauren Harvey (Year 7 Learning Community Leader.)

www.facebook.com/kwrsc

Our school aims to provide a quality education for all students:

Learn more information about:

• Friendly, caring environment • Supportive Learning Communities complemented by a strong House system. • SEAL (Select Entry Accelerated Learning) Program for gifted students. • Extensive Sports, Music, Creative and Performing Arts programs • State of the Art Year Level Learning Centres. • Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Program.

• Transition from Grade 6 to Year 7. • Our Learning Communities and facilities. • SEAL Program application process. • School Bus Transport. • Inclusive Education Program. • Extra-curricular programs provided by the school, including the instrumental Music Program. • Hear from our students about their school experiences.

TO BOOK AN ON-SITE TOUR: (TOURS HELD MON & THURS AT 10.15AM)

koo.wee.rup.sc@edumail.vic.gov.au

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www.kwrsc.vic.edu.au

5997 1444

We pride ourselves on being a Catholic, welcoming school where everyone is valued and respected. Our committed and professional staff provide a safe, caring environment where we aim to engender a love of learning in every student.

ENROLMENTS NOW OPEN Ph: 5943 9000 or email office@stppakenham.catholic.edu.au to book a school tour 136 Princes Highway, Pakenham | www.stppakenham.catholic.edu.au | (03) 5943 9000 12496727-HC22-21

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CHRISTMAS IN CARDINIA

A vet that travels Our Pet Mobile Vet provides convenient and affordable first line veterinary care to pets in the comfort of their own home. They understand that some pets hate to travel, that some owners have multiple pets, and that it can be difficult to organise transport, so they come to you! Eliminate car travel, and avoid consult room stress and waiting room times. Our Pet Mobile Vet offers a number of healthcare services, including: Illness examinations Vaccinations Heartworm protection

· · ·

· Dental checks · Ear, eyes, skin checks including lumps and wounds. · Arthritis management · Post-operative and wound care · Clinical pathology and diagnostics including blood tests · Specialist Referrals They also offer wellness services including: · Senior health checks · Microchipping · Anal gland expression · Worming

· Nutritional advice · Behavioural advice · Boarding and cattery advice · Pet insurance When the time comes to say good-bye to your beloved pet a peaceful and compassionate euthanasia in the home can been arranged. Dr Julia can also discuss palliative care, and offer you and your family pre-euthanasia guidance and preparation advice before the time comes. Options including private cremation or group cremation through a dedicated animal cremation company can also be arranged. Contact Dr Julia Malcolm on 0438 535 878.

Dr Julia Malcolm.

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Be a man of Baking up a jolly storm summer style

Spoil your man this Christmas with all his menswear and accessory needs at Men of Style in Pakenham. Owner Charlie is on hand to guide you. 260027

The team at Pakenham’s The Great Aussie Bakehouse is ready to serve you the best pies, coffee and Christmas treats this side of the black stump. 259974

YOU CHOOSE YOUR OWN CHRISTMAS TREE!

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For more than 60 years, Dandenong Christmas Tree Farm has been delighting customers with that most precious of festive traditions: a real, live Christmas tree. Customers are invited to visit the farm and take a wander amongst the rows of green until they find their perfect tree. There is a tree for every family, in different heights to fit any house. Staff will cut the tree and can net it for easy transportation for a small fee. They’re easy to take care of too; just keep them watered and your tree will last the whole Christmas season. Magnificent trees 1- 3 m (4 to 10ft)

47 years experience in growing Trees

Stands available You can come and choose your tree from:

336 Browns Rd, OFFICER (Mel Ref 213 C12)

OPEN

t Credi Cash, and Card s Eftpo es i facilit

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Weekdays between 2pm-8pm Weekends 8pm-6pm

1300 655 652 www.dandenongchristmastreefarm.com.au pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

Thursday, 2 December, 2021

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CHRISTMAS IN CARDINIA

YOMG is on its way

Living and giving in Garfield

Yo My Goodness, best known as YOMG, is coming to Pakenham. The south-easterners have spoken and YOMG cannot wait to meet the locals and be part of the Pakenham community. To celebrate their grand opening on Saturday 4 December, they will be serving $5 Yo My with Cheese burgers all day (from 11am) online and in store. YOMG was born from a team of fun-loving Melbournians who share a passion for great vibes, swirling flavours and nice buns! Since launching in 2015, the team behind YOMG gained momentum via Melbourne beachsides and urban pathways, serving epic burgers, exploring all forms of cheesy fries, super thickshakes and the goodness of hand-crafted frozen yoghurt. Their story goes even further than creating awesome flavours with plenty of goodness, YOMG buns are handmade, from signature purple buns, to beetroot and gluten-free buns, they keep things colourful. Likewise, their beef patties are house-made and hand-pressed on the grill with no additives… just the very best, flavoursome Aussie beef. YOMG’s signature frozen yoghurt is handcrafted using fresh milk and farmer’s yoghurt, combined with pure fruit purees or fancy caramel saltiness before being swirled into creamy soft serve deliciousness - it’s all goodness here! YOMG Pakenham will celebrate its opening at Shop FT-05 Pakenham Lifestyle Centre, 825 Princes Highway, Pakenham on Saturday 4 December.

Impodimo Living and Giving is a boutique lifestyle store offering home, kitchen, gifts, art, furniture, fashion accessories and much more at Garfield.

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Yummy burgers are coming to Pakenham with the opening of YOMG. 259983

LOVE HORSES? We have an extensive range of accessories for your horse, plus everything for your stable and grooming needs.

Little Miss Hangry wishes everyone a

Compassion, Dignity & Respect with Quality Service

Now stocking wall art

Dianne Comber 0418 328 205

Plus giftware!

1 Westernport Road, Lang Lang, 3984

Michelle Brown 0449 220 652

Fresh new collection of Peter Williams riding apparel instore now!

Office 5997 5515

CALL IN AND SEE FOR YOURSELF

Lang Lang District Funeral Service

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Safe and Happy New Year

Shop 2/1 Main Street Bunyip Ph 0425 842 314 | onyahorse.com.au

& Cl Av Co ick ai lle la ct bl e

Email: dianne@lldfs.com

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A riders haven for clothing and apparel!

Thank you for the support over the last year and always, from Little Miss Hangry. 101A Nar Nar Goon - Longwarry Road Garfield

5629 2180

GARDEN GEAR In store, phone orders and delivery available

LANDSCAPING • GARDEN BUILDING SUPPLIES • MINI MIX CONCRETE Sand • Mulch • Pebbles and much more!

Monday - Friday 7am - 4.00pm Saturday 7am - 3pm

A lifestyle store with beautiful bespoke wares for the home, gifts, fashion, children’s ware & providore.

• Mini Mix Concrete 0.4m – 3.2m • All your concreting needs from Reo to Oxide • REDGUM FIREWOOD

Stocking carefully curated local artisans and makers.

Delivering from Yarragon to Cranbourne, Emerald to Nyora, and everywhere in between

NAR NAR GOON – LONGWARRY RD, BUNYIP

ALSO AT

201 WELLINGTON RD, MULGRAVE

03 5629 2884

PH: 03 9560 7398

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Located in Garfield’s Boutique Shopping Strip

101 Main Street, Garfield

www.impodimo.com.au

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Unique gifts

In the zone There’s a battery for every application at Battery Zone. Liam, Brett, Mason and Gary at Battery Zone can help you out. Call at 3/206 Princes Hwy, Pakenham and for more information or to shop online go to batteryzone.com.au or phone 5940 1364.

Jump in Lazy Frog Gifts in Pakenham where Molly and Sharlene are ready to help you tick off your Chirstmas list with their range of unique gifts. 259972

Local shopping centre pivotal to Cardinia Lakes area We’re back out and about. If you’re not keen to travel too far, stick with the local centre that has friendly staff, and fabulous food on offer. With delivery options from the foodies, to amazing customer service from all the stores, this is certainly the place to be for your Christmas supplies and meals when you can’t be bothered cooking. Now we can venture into salons again, the ladies at Sugarcoat Nails & Beauty are wellequipped to help you feel fabulous for the

forthcoming party season. From their delicious salads to their tasty chicken, Uncle Sam’s Charcoal Chicken is a firm favourite in the neighbourhood for a quick and healthy meal. Cardinia Lakes Fish & Chippery has delicious burgers, along with crispy chips and tasty fish for a favourite takeaway option. You might even be brave enough to try their deepfried mars bar one day!

Pizza Fellas has a great range of pizzas and can be ordered online so they are ready for you when you pop in to pick up your dinner! Wok to Go rounds out the takeaway options with tasty Asian dishes galore to tempt your tastebuds. At Caremore Pharmacies, their focus on the patient ensures they provide the best possible advice on medications so customers can achieve better health. They are dedicated to their customer’s well-being and will help you

make the right choices about maintaining good health. Their gift range is outstanding as well, and you’ll be able to find the perfect gift for the father figure in your life. Great breakfast and lunch options are on the menu at Urban Hype Cafe. Come and meet the friendly staff and grab something for lunch or morning tea. Their coffee is just divine. Stay up to date by following the Centre on their Facebook page.

Sugarcoat Nails & Beauty

Take a break with us

140 Windermere Blvd, Pakenham

12523730-SG49-21

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Thursday, 2 December, 2021

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Learning is play based When families drop off their children at child care, they know that their children will have a fun day. They’ll play, they’ll eat, they may sleep. But what goes on behind the play, how does the play eventuate? Do toys, games and art activities get put out randomly? The educators at Cardinia Lakes Early Learning Centre share how they create their play based learning environments to get the best outcomes for children. When constructing a play based learning program for children in classrooms, a lot of work happens in preparation. Educators observe, form bonds and ask questions both of children and their families. A holistic picture of children is gathered so as to co-construct the best learning program possible for children. Cardinia Lakes Early Learning Centre educators develop children’s learning program by: Identifying children’s strengths and interests through observing and engaging with them, and speaking with families. Planning experiences, choosing teaching strategies and designing the environment is very important in order to build on children’s skills, knowledge and understanding of the world. Designing individual and group projects that help children to inquire, make discoveries, explore ideas, work cooperatively and solve problems. Reflecting on, evaluating and documenting the learning outcomes for children to inform future planning.

Scoop the sweet rewards Pakenham’s favourite new gelato store will be scooping every day throughout the festive season. Augustus Gelatery opened its doors in October with friendly, welcoming staff and has quickly become the go to place for delicious dessert. “We are ready for a big summer ahead with some exciting competitions, new flavours and we have launched our fabulous new rewards app,” Augustus Gelatery brand manager Amie Surridge said. Download the Augustus rewards app to earn rewards with every scoop. Rewards include a free birthday treat and exclusive access to surprise offers and giveaways.

It’s a perfect excuse to pop in and treat yourself. “Augustus Gelatery is the perfect place to bring the family after a big day of fun-filled activities,” Ms Surridge said. “With 36 flavours including a range of plant-based options, you are certain to keep a smile on everyone’s face.” While you are there, you can even pick up one of their delicious gelato cakes for dessert. Augustus Gelatery is located at 1A-1 Pakenham Homemaker Centre, 825 Princes Hwy, Pakenham, and is open every day from 11am to 11pm.

· · · ·

A lot of preparation goes into creating play a based learning program for children. children’s strengths and inter· Identifying ests through observing and interacting with them, and speaking with families. Cardinia Lakes Early Learning Centre are now taking enrolments for 2022. Would you like a tour of the centre? Book a tour today at www.cardinialakeselc.com.au You can also check out the centre on Facebook and Instagram.

Keep cool this summer with a sweet treat from Augustus Gelatery in Pakenham. 259976

Get your place ready for Christmas and this summer FOR QUOTES CALL:

5943 2371

Address: 1 Tivendale Rd, Officer VIC 3809 Phone: (03) 5943 2444 www.tradingstables.com.au

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A nurturing environment “It feels like a community where my child will be nurtured, cared for and known.” This is what parents and guardians say is their main reason for choosing Lakeside College, according to Principal Tom Brennen. “As a Christian College in the Lutheran tradition, we couldn’t be happier that families are experiencing exactly what we set out to provide,” he said. “Education is all about relationships - between teacher and student, family and staff and school and community. Lakeside College prioritises these critical relationships as we

carry out our service to the local community.” As a smaller Christian school of 461 students (growing to 650 students) from Years Prep to 12, there is a richness of relationships and attention to individuals that set the College apart from others. Students are nurtured across the curriculum through innovative learning opportunities in core subjects, a vibrant arts program, technologies and sport. Highly qualified and committed staff know each child deeply through the intentional pastoral care program and relish in the opportuni-

ty to teach students across the different areas of the school. The College boasts excellent facilities including access to the co-located facilities provided through the Cardinia Cultural Centre, the Toomuc Playing Fields and the Cardinia Life gym. As an open enrolment Christian College, all families are welcome regardless of their faith tradition. “As Principal, I relish taking families on tours each week on Tuesday mornings and Thursday afternoons and at other times as needed - please take me up on the offer,” Mr Brennen said.

In synergy with IT needs For anything and everything IT related, Synergy IT Services is the place to contact. Owner Andrew Devienne has over 15 years’ experience in the industry backed up by multiple certifications and degrees, and can solve both residential and business IT needs. Residential services include antivirus and malware clean-up, Windows upgrades and hardware upgrades. For businesses, Synergy IT Services offers Microsoft 365 and Google Cloud setup and management, backups, networking, servers, DNS and domain management, and internet and VOIP telephony. Synergy is a local small business that takes care of its customers. Synergy offers a high attention to detail and management from start to end. Staff take the time to understand each customer’s issue, present suitable options and deliver the right solution. The company has experience with a wide range of vendors and technology solutions and local Australian hardware stock.

Synergy IT Director Andrew Devienne can assist with all your IT needs. Importantly, Synergy is easy to contact when you need it, and can extend support out to regional Victoria. Synergy IT Services is located in Pakenham and can be contacted on contact@synergyitservices.com.au, or 9113 4616. Synergy IT Services is open 8am-5pm with hours extended for emergencies.

Experts at sleeping easy Sleep easy with the range of diagnostics, treatment, equipment and expert advice at The Sleep Apnea Clinic, in Main Street, Pakenham. 260020

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Thursday, 2 December, 2021

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The students and staff at St Clare’s Primary School would like to wish everyone a safe and enjoyable holiday season filled with love, peace and happiness

St Clare’s Catholic Primary School, Officer As a relatively young school, St Clare’s has developed an outstanding reputation in the local community for providing a quality schooling experience, developing the whole student, based on the living motto of the School:

Our faith leads to wisdom and courage. This motto is the energising source of all that happens at St Clare’s and is embedded in the ethos of the school, the curriculum we offer and the relationships we develop within our school and wider communities. If you are reading this as a prospective student, parent, guardian or family, I invite you to visit us at St Clare’s and discover this dynamic learning environment and start the beginning of, what I hope will be, a life-long learning partnership.

Helen Staindl School Principal

Enrol now for 2022!

St Clare’s Primary School Officer 95 Majestic Drive (PO Box 362) Officer 3809 Phone 03 5940 6777 Email enrolments@stclaresofficer.catholic.edu.au

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Greens pitch for south east

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SPORT

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Mystery’s sad end

Chain of thanks Elyssa, Emily and Mary-Jane were among the junior students at Chairo Christian School Pakenham who spent a week preparing to make the longest paper chain they had ever seen. It was part of a thankfulness program at the school, which resulted in thousands of paper links with individual reasons to be thankful written on them spread across the basketball court last week. Read more on page 7

Garbo avoids jail A garbage truck driver has avoided jail after a man died following a crash on the Princes Freeway at Officer in 2018.

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Daniel Hackett, now 38, crashed the garbage truck he was driving into the back of 78-year-old John Styles’ car, which tragically led to Mr Styles’ death six days later.

On 26 November, the Supreme Court of Victoria heard Hackett was travelling below the speed limit at 96km/h before hitting the brakes upon seeing Mr Styles’ car slowing ahead due

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By Shelby Brooks

NEWS

Children’s centres named By Gabriella Payne Three new child and family centres in Officer have been officially named, with their new titles paying homage to the traditional owners of the land on which they sit. Cardinia Shire Council said it was pleased to announce the three new centre names, all of which are derived from the Woiwurrung and Boonwurrung languages, and were decided on after extensive consultation with the local community, historical groups and the Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation. The Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation is the peak body for the traditional owners of the Cardinia Shire, and the names chosen all have local and cultural symbolism behind them. The new names are Konewark (previously Rix Road), Kurmboon (previously Timbertop) and Toun-nun (previously Brunt Road). In the Woiwurrung and Boonwurrung languages, Konewark means open, Kurmboon means tree blossom and Toun-nun means

The new Konewark Family and Children’s Centre in Officer, is expected to officially open in 2022. Picture: SUPPLIED warm - all very fitting names for the new child and family centres. Cardinia’s newly appointed Mayor, Jeff Springfield, said that it was great to see the new centres given Indigenous names, as it

was important to pay respect to First Nations people. “Naming our facilities with reference and respect to the local languages Woiwurrung and Boonwurrung is an important step towards

honouring the rich cultural heritage of the shire and reconciliation,“ Cr Springfield said. Cardinia Shire is located on the traditional lands of the Bunurong and Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation, and the name Cardinia itself is derived from the Boonwurrung or Wadawurrung word Kar-din-yarr meaning look to the rising sun or close to the sunrise. Council began the process of researching names for the centres in January 2021, reaching out to the Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation as well as the local community including historical and community groups. Both Konewark (located at 7 Campenalla Ave, Officer) and Kurmboon (located at 297 Pink Hill Boulevard, Officer) are expected to officially open at some point in 2022, while Toun-nun (46 Fairweather Parade, Officer) is expected to be opened a few years later, in 2024. For more information about the new child and family centres, visit council’s major projects website at cardinia.vic.gov.au/majorprojects or call the community infrastructure and service planning team on 1300 787 624.

Cardinia Council eases fire prevention burn off rules Cardinia Shire Council has temporarily eased burn off restrictions for residents who are allowed to burn off for fire prevention purposes. From now until the Fire Danger Period is declared, open air burning is allowed without a permit from Monday to Saturday, provided you live in the Cardinia Shire Council Bushfire Prone Area (BPA), the burn off is for fire prevention and fire fuel reduction purposes, the council’s burn off requirements are fol-

lowed at all times, and your burn off is registered with the CFA. If your property is 20 hectares or less in size you must have no more than one open air fire at once, a fire break of three metres, a maximum pile size that is not greater than two metres in any dimension (eg. two metres long or two metres wide or two metres high). If your property is greater than 20 hectares in size, you must have no more than three open air fires at once, a fire break of six me-

tres, a maximum pile size that is not greater than four metres in any dimension (eg. four metres long or four metres wide or four metres high). The easing of restrictions aims to help landowners reduce fire fuel in the lead up to the Fire Danger Period. Before you burn off, please consider using one of these methods to reduce your fuel load the kerbside green waste bin collection, hard and bundled green waste collection,

composting or mulching (we offer waste reduction rebates) taking green waste to a local tip, transfer station or waste facility You cannot burn off on Total Fire Ban or smog alert days. To check if it’s a Total Fire Ban day, go to the CFA website. To check if it’s a smog alert day, check EPA AirWatch For more information on burning off in Cardinia Shire, visit cardinia.vic.gov.au/ burnoff

We’re building big near you and there will be transport disruptions As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re building the Metro Tunnel, creating space in the City Loop to run more trains to and from the suburbs. We’re also removing 85 dangerous and congested level crossings, with 54 already gone. Buses replace trains in both directions Cranbourne and Pakenham lines

9pm to last train each night, 29 Nov to 2 Dec

Caulfield to Dandenong

8.30pm 3 Dec to 1am 4 Dec

Caulfield to Westall

9pm to last train each night, 6 to 8 Dec

Westall to Cranbourne and Pakenham

8.30pm to last train each night, 13 to 15 Dec

Flinders Street to Oakleigh

From 1am 4 to 5 Dec From 8.30pm 10 to 12 Dec First train to 8.30pm, 15 Dec 16 to 23 Dec

Flinders Street to Caulfield

Road disruptions: Closed roads and lanes Princes and South Gippsland Highways, Dandenong South

Until late 2021

Road or lanes closed

Clyde Road, Berwick

Until early 2022

Lane closed southbound between Reserve Street and Enterprise Avenue

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Lane closed northbound between Sir Gustav Nossal Boulevard and Jane Street

Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

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Thursday, 2 December, 2021

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Find a detailed list of disruptions at bigbuild.vic.gov.au

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NEWS

IN BRIEF Left high and dry in Officer

A photo of the search area police are looking for the remains of Carol and Russell.

Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the theft of a boat and trailer in Officer. The trailer, registration AC554, was stolen from the front of the Rix Road address around 11.30am, Friday 26 November. The white and blue fishing boat has 455CA stamped on the back right hand side and has a Mariner11 motor. It comes as a blow to owner Matt Granger, who said he was heartbroken. “I’ve owned the boat for 12 years and have done a lot of work to it recently with new lights, new canopy and clears, new deck and transom,“ he told Star News. “It is my baby, I love it and we have been through a lot of tough times together. “I seriously feel empty with out my boat, it is killing me knowing I may never see her again.“ Matt said the theft occurred in broad daylight, sometime between 11.30am and noon. “The neighbours didn’t hear anything and my cameras didn’t pick it up,“ he said. “It also had a wheel clamp, wheel lock nuts, a hitch lock and a padlock on it and still didn’t stop them.“ Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at crimestoppersvic.com. au. Quote reference 210387678.

Carol Clay. 254599

Mystery’s sad end By Shelby Brooks Human remains have been found in the search for bodies of Pakenham woman Carol Clay and her camping companion Russell Hill, of Drouin. Victoria Police made the announcement Tuesday 30 November that they had located human remains in bushland near Dargo as part of their ongoing investigation into the disappearance of Russell and Carol. The remains are yet to be formally identified and it is expected this process will take some time. Victoria Police’s Missing Persons Squad Inspector Andrew Stamper was heading up the operation, with assistance from Missing Per-

son Squad detectives and specialist resources including Search and Rescue and Major Crime Scene Unit. It’s understood the search area was near Grant, an old gold mining town. Victoria Police shared an image near the preliminary search area to give an indication of the terrain investigators are dealing with. Victoria Police Assistant Commissioner Bob Hill said detectives identified a crime scene within the Great Alpine Area on Thursday 25 November. “Our efforts to locate the remains of Russell and Carol continue,“ he said. “Forensic specialists will commence searching in that area in the coming days.

“We are hopeful this arrest brings us a step closer to providing the answers the families have been desperately searching for and richly deserve.” Police are still searching for a rusty silver/blue 7x5 trailer with off road wheels that was attached to the Nissan Patrol, which was seized by police when the man was arrested on Monday. “This trailer remains outstanding and police are keen to talk to anyone who purchased or received a similar trailer particularly during the period of March to July last year,” Commissioner Hill said. “We believe the trailer was sold on Gumtree.”

Covid tester attacked A health care worker has been allegedly attacked in Pakenham while administering a Covid-19 test. The Victorian Department of Health released a statement on Tuesday 30 November, stating that they were aware of an “alleged incident of aggression against a Covid-19 testing site worker in Pakenham today.“ “This did not result in injury, but will be reported to police,“ they said. It comes as a worker at a Covid-19 testing site in Collingwood was injured in an alleged hit and run. The Department of Health said the worker had been hospitalised. “We give him and his family our best wishes,“ they said. “These professionals work on the frontline to protect all of us. Authorities won’t tolerate any attempt to harm workers, and neither will the Victorian community.“

MPs brainstormed ‘Covid story’ By Cam Lucadou-Wells Former ALP powerbroker Adem Somyurek was accused of “brainstorming” a story to explain footage of him withdrawing cash from an ATM to pay for other members’ party memberships. The IBAC Operation Watts inquiry had heard the practice was utilised by several Labor MPs as part of a branch-stacking regime. It played a tapped phone call between Mr Somyurek and Andrew Landeryou discussing the footage screened on 60 Minutes’ expose The Faceless Man two days earlier. Mr Somyurek had been filmed withdrawing cash and handing it to staffer Nick McLennan in a car park. On 16 June 2020, Mr Landeryou and Mr Somyurek discuss possible explanations, including that Mr Somyurek acted out of “Corona paranoia”. “There are any number of explanations around that that are quite OK but it boils down to the forms had to be lodged by a certain time and you were lodging them,” Mr Landeryou says. Mr Somyurek suggests: “Or the gentleman that received the money could not leave his

house because of Coronavirus. Yeah, that’s probably (a) better one. “That’s probably the best one, isn’t it.” Mr Landeryou said: “You could have gone and visited to collect the cash, but during Corona you’ve been very paranoid about it and you thought it’s much better to go to the ATM.” There was less chance that ATM money would be contaminated, Mr Landeryou mused. At the inquiry on 12 November 2021, Mr Somyurek had said he got out the cash because a staffer was anxious about Covid. “(The staffer) rocked up with rubber gloves and she looked all… apprehensive about touching anything. “So I got it myself… And I did intend to get reimbursed for it.” Counsel assisting IBAC Chris Carr asserted the conversation with Mr Landeryou was the “genesis of the Covid story”. “This is where you are brainstorming what story you are going to give to explain the facts that you apprehend will be publicly known? “What’s the best explanation we can give? “What’s the best lie we can come up with.” Mr Somyurek responded that it was “not a

story”. The “critical” issue was he earlier admitted to the inquiry he paid for the memberships himself. IBAC Commissioner Robert Redlich noted Mr Somyurek had come a long way since the start of his evidence. “It’s only been in more recent times that you have been willing to acknowledge things that previously you were not prepared to do?” Mr Somyurek said: “And yeah it’s liberating.” In his evidence, he’d said he’d “lost perspective” in which taxpayer-funded staffers and MPs were diverted into an inter-factional “war”. He agreed that staffers rose to the ranks of MPs through branch-stacking and factional patronage. And that this distorted who gets an opportunity to stand to be MPs. There was a culture to misuse taxpayer resources for factional ends, he agreed. “It reproduces itself. But the question is how you’re going to fix it. “I came in, I knew nothing about it, I observed and I was socialised into it, and I continued the practice.”

Adem Somyurek on day three of his evidence at the IBAC inquiry. Mr Somyurek’s four days of evidence concluded on 12 November. Somali Australian Council of Victoria secretary Dr Hussein Haraco was scheduled to front the hearing on 26 November. But because of ongoing medical reasons, he did not appear, IBAC stated. Dr Haraco, an electorate officer for Mr Somyurek, had previously postponed IBAC appearances in late October on medical grounds. The Operation Watts public hearings have closed for 2021. IBAC stated that the investigation is ongoing.

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STAR NEWS 3

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NEWS

Greens make pitch for the South East By Cam Lucadou-Wells The Greens have taken aim at ALP’s South East heartland ahead of the 2022 federal election. Former Greater Dandenong councillor Matthew Kirwan, who is standing for the Greens in the Bruce electorate, said the ALP “took for granted” and “neglected” their safe South East seats, and that Labor “gave up” on tackling inequality since the 1980s. On the other hand, Mr Kirwan said many in the South East did not understand the Greens. Nor did they know of his party’s stance on improving health, education, inequality and green jobs. He said the Greens had to be relevant by pitching “where people are at”. “They already know that Labor has left them behind but [are] not yet sold that we are the answer.” He and candidates Louisa Willoughby and Sujit Mathew recently appeared in an online panel Greening the Burbs where they discussed how to replicate the party’s inner-city traction in the South East growth corridor. Mr Mathew, who is standing for the seat of Holt, migrated to Australia in 2013 and lives in the “vibrant, multicultural” estates of Clyde North. He said many new migrants were young adults, young families who were disconnected from politics. They have no faith or trust in politicians. Their feedback was “politicians talk too much and they don’t really listen to us”. Their interests included better universities and employment opportunities, as well as immigration and parent visa issues. Despite vast experience with the United Nations, Mr Mathew was surprised how hard it was to land a job in Australia. The struggle for new, skilled arrivals to find a job had to be listened to, he said. Ms Willoughby, who is running in Hotham, said she’d observed Greens volunteers starkly outnumbered at election booths. Labor’s diverse team of volunteers at polling

Green federal candidates Sujit Mathew (Holt), Louisa Willoughby (Hotham) and Matthew Kirwan Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS (Bruce). 257996 booths were able to speak and connect with voters from a range of cultural backgrounds. “Having those conversations in their own languages is really key.” Ms Willoughby, a researcher who has volunteered for more than 15 years to help multilingual students, said the lack of federal funding for public education was doing “long term damage” to local communities. She said the Greens had policies to tackle disadvantage and inequality in diverse communities. Also on the panel, Greater Dandenong councillor Rhonda Garad said the Greens needed a “different approach” in the South

East, tackling broader issues such as schools. She said without a perceived “viable” alternative, locals tended to “accept” ALP branchstacking and its “unethical use and abuse” of ethnic groups. Senator Lidia Thorpe said the Greens had to talk about how they would make Dandenong people’s lives better. Just speaking about net-zero emissions wouldn’t cut it, she said. In the coming election, Senator Thorpe held hopes of the Greens holding balance of power in the Senate. “We’re the only choice left in this country that will take us to a safe future.”

Five teens charged over violent assault Five teens from Melbourne’s south east have been arrested following a violent assault in Narre Warren on Sunday. It is alleged the 16-year-old victim was sitting at the bus stop on Overland Drive when she was approached by a group of females who assaulted her and stole her mobile phone around 2pm on Sunday 28 November. Three passers-by came to the victim’s aid

and were also attacked before the group fled on a bus. Police were advised that the bus had dropped the offenders in Narre Warren South. Members of the SD3 Frontline Tactical Unit were patrolling the area and located all five offenders who were arrested and taken to the Dandenong Police Station for interview.

A 15-year-old Narre Warren girl, a 15-yearold Pakenham girl and a 16-year-old Cranbourne girl were remanded in custody, while a 17-year-old Pakenham girl and a 16-year-old Cranbourne East girl were bailed with strict conditions to appear at a Children’s Court at a later date. The victim was taken to hospital with minor injuries.

Garbo avoids jail From page 1 He pleaded guilty to a charge of dangerous driving causing the death of Mr Styles. Justice Michael Croucher conceded an “interplay of factors outside of Hackett’s control” led to the accident, which included the sudden banking of traffic and Mr Styles’ heavy braking in response. “I was also persuaded that Hackett’s failure to take due care and attention could only have been momentary — and must be measured in mere seconds,” Justice Croucher said in court. “In my view, these matters, in combination, compelled the finding that Mr Hackett’s moral culpability for the offence must be at a comparatively low level.” The court heard six victim impact statements from Mr Styles’ wife, daughter, two grandchildren and twin brothers. Justice Croucher said nothing the court could say or do would heal the grief and pain of Mr Styles’ family. “The sentence I imposed was not a reflection of the worth of Mr Styles’ life — as if anything so precious could ever be valued in any event,” he said. “Rather, the sentence I imposed was a reflection of a large number of factors which I was required by law to take into account, only one of which was the impact on victims.” Justice Croucher said usually the offence would carry a jail sentence, but when sentencing he took into account that Hackett was not affected by drugs or alcohol or lack of sleep, nor was he driving erratically, racing or lairising. “But he accepted that, for the accident to have occurred as it did, he must have lost concentration at some point. As will be seen, however, his inattention was only momentary — a matter of seconds — and external factors contributed to the accident, which lessened his moral culpability considerably,“ Justice Croucher said. Hackett was ordered to serve a 20-month community correction order which includes 200 hours of unpaid community work and a treatment and rehabilitation condition requiring him to participate in the Road Trauma Awareness Seminar. Justice Croucher cancelled Hackett’s driver’s licence which disqualified him from obtaining another for 20 months.

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Thursday, 2 December, 2021

STAR NEWS 5

NEWS

OPINION

Library events back on track

LENSCAPE

If you haven’t been back to the library since Victoria emerged from lockdown, now is the perfect time, as Casey Cardinia Libraries releases its summer events guide. Casey Cardinia Libraries chief executive officer Beth Luppino said library members had been asking when events would to start up again. “The summer programs and events guide is out - check out a great range of activities to keep yourself and family entertained from December to March,“ she said. “When you visit from now until Christmas, please help us to Delivery Joy to people in need - we are accepting donations of nonperishables at all our libraries to pass on to the community and make this festive season a little brighter. “It’s time to reconnect with your library, and we cant wait to see you.“ A number of Christmas holiday events are set to be held across the Casey Cardinia Libraries, as well as author talks, book groups, the big summer reading program and regular story times, baby rhyme times and tinies times. A jam-packed school holiday program will also be on offer including cooking classes, origami workshops and bilingual story times. All events are free but bookings are essential and in line with Covid-19 regulations, visitors will need to check in and show proof of vaccination status. To get involved, visitevents.ccl.vic.gov.au

Summer the pooch at Paint a Pot, Narre Warren

Stay safe this summer My name is Nicholas Cowdery and I am in Year 6 at St Margaret’s Berwick Grammar School. This year, we are doing a school exhibition on any topic of our choice. My topic of choice was the detection of skin cancer and melanoma and how technology can assist.

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Use sunscreen and use it right, limit your time in the sun, wear sunglasses and make sure to wear clothing that shields you from the sun as much as you can. When applying sunscreen, make sure to apply SPF 50+ so you get the most protection. Thank you and stay safe this summer! Nicholas Cowdery, Berwick

THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN Thumbs down!

Thumbs down!

To the amount of roadworks in Casey - gridlocks everywhere.

To all the overgrown grass in the City of Casey. A bit scary when it’s snake and fire season.

Thumbs down! To all the dead tree branches blocking footpaths and covering nature strips.

Thumbs up! To all the lovely people who have been supporting me in my Christmas pudding collection in aid of BK2 Basics in Narre Warren.

Thumbs down! To the Monash Freeway.

Thumbs down! To Ballarto Road between South Gippsland Hwy and Clyde Five Ways Road.

Thumbs up! To the lovely lady that paid for my Maccas yesterday.

Thumbs down! To the all the rubbish now left on the nature strips.

NEWS

By Marcus Uhe

12452305-LN26-20

REAL ESTATE Email seren@starnewsgroup.com.au

Published by Star News Group Pty Ltd ACN 005 848 108. Publisher/Managing Director, Paul Thomas. All material is copyright to Star News Group Pty Ltd. All significant errors will be corrected as soon as possible. Distribution PROUDLY numbers, areas and coverage are estimates AUSTRALIAN OWNED & only. For our terms and conditions please visit INDEPENDENT www.starcommunity.com.au

The Primary Years Programme Exhibition is not only about the research component (which is conducted through websites and interviews) but is also about the action component. For my action, I have decided to raise awareness about the dangers of being in the sun, unprotected. As the summer is very close, here is a list of how to keep safe in the sun.

Youth Information Centres reopened

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Here’s what our Facebook readers had to say about it: Adrian Lock: There appears to be a lack of council workers. Many parks and reserves have overgrown weeds that are going to be a huge snake issue as warmer weather comes. We are near Sweeney Reserve and I have never seen the parks left to this level of neglect. Melissa Rana: We had massive branch that blocked the road. People called, and we as neighbours had move it so we could get through - it’s still there. Jennifer Oakes: People need to ring council.

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Thursday, 2 December, 2021

Two of the City of Casey’s Youth Information Centres have reopened. The centres at High Street in Cranbourne and Stuart Avenue in Hampton Park will be operating from 1.30pm – 5.15pm from Monday to Friday until Tuesday 21 December. City of Casey manager for child, youth and family Virginia Lloyd was excited to reopen the facilities which had been closed due to the pandemic. “The City of Casey is thrilled to have recently reopened its Youth Information Centres, in line with the latest advice from the Chief Health Officer regarding Covid-19,” Ms Lloyd said. “Our centres provide a safe and welcoming space for young people to visit during the day and after school, with exciting activities on of-

fer, as well as a range of programs for people to participate in. “We would encourage anyone aged 10-25 years to visit one of our centres for a chance to meet new people and make friends, with our youth centres offering practical support for young people, including advice on career pathways and opportunities following high-school.” The Narre Warren Youth Information Centre on Webb Street is offering youth counselling and support services by appointment only at this stage. As per the Victorian Government regulations, proof of vaccination or a valid medical exemption is required for anybody aged 16 and above who would like to attend the Youth Information Centres. For more information on the facilities head to casey.vic.gov.au/find-youth-informationcentres-services

Youth Information Centres at Cranbourne and Hampton Park reopened on Wednesday. 259346 Picture: UNSPLASHED pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

The chains ran across the double basketball court at the school.

Thankful for... classmates.

Gratitude links students By Shelby Brooks About 10,000 links of paper, each with a reason to be thankful, spread across the basketball court at Chairo Christian School’s Pakenham campus last week. Junior school students had spent the week working on reasons why they were thankful,

which culminated in the massive paper chain project. The week prior, a challenge had been issued to each class from Prep to Year 4 to see how long they could make a paper chain from A4 strips. Each link was to represent something or someone that a student was thankful for. On the day of the assembly, students care-

fully delivered their paper chains to the gym and laid them out on the basketball courts. After the assembly, the paper chains were broken up and used to decorate classrooms. Head of the junior school Lydia Tweedie said the hundreds of metres of chain was an amazing experience for students and staff members to see, in a very real and memorable

way, what thankfulness can look like. “The school has a character training program, called Clay, in which each month we focus on a different characteristic,“ she said. “This month we looked at thankfulness and how to learn to be thankful.“ Things to be thankful for included parents, school, Australia, food, God and relationships.

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Thursday, 2 December, 2021

STAR NEWS 7

NEWS

Watchful eyes clean up By Gabriella Payne Illegal rubbish dumping has long been an issue that has plagued the south-eastern suburbs - but an unusual yet ingenious new solution could help curb the problem for good. With Christmas and the holiday season just around the corner, Australia’s largest clothing and household item recycling company, SCR Group, has been bracing itself for a busy few months ahead. Running over 1600 collection hubs around the country, SCR Group spends almost $1 million every year cleaning up illegal dumping and they knew there needed to be a more permanent solution to the problem. SCR Group key executive Alexis Todorovski said that the spike in illegal dumping over the festive season happened “for a number of reasons“ but after hearing about some interesting new research from Oxford University, the company decided to try a new prevention strategy. The research, which showed that images of large watching eyes could reduce the occurrence of crime and anti-social behaviour, gave the company the idea for their new, specially designed signage - a life-size, big-eyed, cardboard security guard named Alfonzo. “Alfonzo is based off international research from Oxford University called ’the watching eye effect’, which was tested to see if images of large watching eyes would reduce the occurrence of crime and anti-social behaviour,“ Ms Todorovski said. “The findings of that study showed their effectiveness being greater than CCTV cameras. “SCR Group expanded on this research to include an educational element with the key message “illegal dumping is a crime” [in the new signage] because not many people know that leaving items next to clothing hubs, even with good intent, is a punishable offence, often through hefty fines,“ she said.

What do you think of the new ‘Alfonzo’ signage idea being trialled by SCR Group - could it curb illegal dumping in your area? The company trialled Alfonzo for a fourweek period at their worst offending illegal dumping hotspot in Melbourne’s northern suburbs and witnessed some incredible results. “Our number one hotspot saw dumping decrease by 75 per cent and dropped from the number one spot to number 10 in just a fourweek period,“ Ms Todorovski explained. “The results from our trial are in line with Oxford’s research and we believe this concept should be part of public policy, especially when it comes to illegal dumping that costs

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Stirring trouble By Mitchell Clarke

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

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

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

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

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

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are only one part to a multi-pronged strategy to significantly reduce or eliminate the problem altogether. “In conjunction with the signage and in collaboration with councils, SCR Group believes that education programs and awareness campaigns along with the sufficient provision of services such as free home pickups and recycling drop off days should be a permanent part to local government’s service and would address the cause behind illegal dumping.“

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ratepayers tens of millions of dollars each year to clean up (an average of approximately $2-3 million per council).“ Ms Todorovski said that SCR Group planned to roll out the scheme to their south-east locations in the near future and hoped to record similar results, but signage wasn’t the only way to stop the problem once and for all. “We’re currently rolling out Alfonzo signage in the City of Hume, City of Casey and more in the City of Whittlesea,“ Ms Todorovski said. “Although the signs are very successful, they

Picture: SUPPLIED

The Cook Island Community Services Victoria will receive a $30,000 grant as part of the Labor Government’s Priority Response to Multicultural Communities during Covid-19 program. Member for Narre Warren South Gary Maas MP recently met with leaders of the organisation to discuss the funding which allows community groups to continue their important work of delivering emergency food relief and support to those in need. The funding comes at a critical time as members of the community come together to assist those who are struggling with the hardships of the pandemic. Minister Maas praised Cook Island Community Services Victoria for their ongoing support of the community. “I thank Cook Island Community Services Victoria for all of their hard work in delivering meals and essential care to those struggling during what has been a very challenging year.” “Since the start of the global pandemic we have seen community helping community through tough times. “Food relief services, charity groups, and non-profit organisations have been essential in providing support on the ground. “I know that Cook Island Community Services Victoria and all the other local support services will continue making life a little bit easier for those locals in need during the pandemic and beyond.” The grants program has allowed for the building of stronger partnerships across the Victorian multicultural sector and has furthered the capacity of local community networks, organisations and services to offer support to those struggling. The program supports multicultural and multifaith communities by funding organisations to address Covid-19 risk factors and vulnerabilities, particularly in areas that may have been directly impacted by the pandemic.

Cook Island Community Services Victoria will receive more funding to help the community. Picture: UNSPLASHED The State Government has funded more than 320 community organisations through the program to provide emergency relief, food support and community outreach, as well as targeted communication through translated materials and community-led health messages. Almost $23 million has already been invested through the Priority Response to Multicultural Communities during Covid-19 program since it began in August last year, which has to date provided support to more than 500,000 Victorians. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Cardinia unites on cause By Gabriella Payne Family violence is an often invisible issue that’s hidden behind closed doors - but there are many people in the community working to put a stop to it once and for all. On Thursday 25 November, the Cardinia Shire Council (in collaboration with Aligned Leisure and Outlook Victoria) held their long awaited White Ribbon Day fundraiser and award ceremony at the Cardinia Cultural Centre, and it was a fantastic morning full of inspiring people and conversations. As well as featuring a number of captivating guest speakers, this year’s ceremony shone a light on two outstanding and highly deserving community leaders, who were recognised for their efforts in preventing family violence in the community. WHISE (Women’s Health in the South East) was awarded the 2021 Tony Fitzgerald Award for their tireless work in providing health information, health promotion and education to the female community, while also assisting women (particularly those who are significantly disadvantaged) to access services they need. The second award of the morning, the 2021 Gary McQuillan Award, was given to Michael Casey for his efforts in driving the Cardinia Shire Council’s White Ribbon re-accreditation and Together We Can initiative. Both Mr Casey and Deb Pugsley (WHISE’s operations manager) said they were incredibly grateful to have been recognised in this way and would continue to raise awareness and advocate for victims impacted by family violence into the future. “It’s been a real pleasure and an honour,“ Ms Pugsley said. “It’s good to get back on the scene with everyone, we have worked amazingly and I take my hat off to the staff at WHISE for all that they’ve done.”

Michael Casey and Deb Pugsley (representing WHISE) both received awards at the ceremony for their work in the sector. 259731

It was great to see many community leaders present on the day, all raising awareness for family violence prevention.

Everyone has a role to play in preventing family violence, and the important message to remember Pictures: GABRIELLA PAYNE is that ‘together we can!’ 259731 Mr Casey shared his gratitude as well, and said that it had been an inspiring morning full of hope for the future. “There was lots of good conversation and information shared [at the event] to keep the ball rolling,” Mr Casey said. “There’s always work happening, but its great to hear new ideas and have these discussions for how we can further that.” A number of notable speakers addressed the audience that morning, including equality advocate, former federal MP and AFL legend Phil Cleary, Outlook chief executive officer Sam Sondhi, Inspector Darron Hedge from Victoria Police and Aligned Leisure’s Shane Dunne to name a few.

Mr Cleary’s powerful speech addressed how local sporting clubs could help educate both male and female players on family violence prevention, so that together, we can create safer spaces that promote equality within the community moving forward. “I’m confident that we’re going to make progress and seismic change in the coming years,” Mr Cleary said to the crowd. “I often say, ‘you don’t solve a problem until you know you’ve got one’.” “34 years ago when my sister was murdered, the society didn’t think it had a problem, so from there to here, [there’s been a] massive change,” he said. “We’re now capable, but this has to be a

microcosm of the whole community, so in all our settings, we have to work on all these principles.” Cardinia Shire Council Mayor Jeff Springfield said that it had been fantastic to see community members come together to raise awareness for this important issue. “It was great to see the community come together and hear the stories of the people and the advocates in this space,” Cr Springfield said. “It’s such an important topic and issue to be raising awareness for, because we all play a role in the community to stop gender based violence.” “This issue brews in the background in our neighbours houses, in the houses of our teammates and in our sporting clubs, and men really need to play a role in addressing this,” he said. If you or anyone you know is experiencing any form of family violence, contact Safe Steps 24/7 on 1800 015 188 or safesteps@safesteps. org.au

Phil Cleary addresses the crowd at the Cardinia Cultural Centre.

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NEWS

Max Godber encouraged everyone to come down to the Community Garden plant and seedling sale - pictured here at a previous sale with customer Allison. 223120

Seedling sale Sunday By Gabriella Payne Local gardening enthusiasts are in for a treat this weekend as the Pakenham Community Garden will be transformed into your onestop-shop for seedlings and plants. The community garden, located next to Pakenham’s Living & Learning Centre on Henry Street, will be selling a wide range of seedlings and plants on Sunday 5 December - just in time for those Christmas holiday planting projects! With prices ranging from just 10 cents up to $6, there’ll be plenty of affordable seedlings to go around and members of the community garden will be there on the day, sharing their

wealth of wisdom with aspiring local gardeners. Pakenham Community Garden coordinator Max Godber encouraged everyone to come by on Sunday afternoon to say hello and explore the selection of plants on offer. “The Pakenham Community Garden will be hosting another seedling and plant sale this Sunday from 2 - 4pm at 6b Henry Street, Pakenham,“ Mr Godber said. “Our range includes potted herbs, vegetable seedlings, indoor and ornamental plants [but there are] limited quantities available! “Come down to support your local community garden and learn more about how to get a bumper harvest this summer,“ he said.

A wide variety will be available on the day, but stocks are limited!

Sylvia Lane, a volunteer of the community garden, with some seedlings at one of the group’s previous sales. 223120

A taste of some of the seedlings and plants that will be available on Sunday. Pictures: SUPPLIED pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Police push Safeguard Police are urging Victorians to remain vigilant about fire danger this summer, despite a wetter than average outlook for the upcoming season. Victoria Police has launched Operation Safeguard – an annual police operation which aims to deter or reduce the impact of intentional and recklessly lit fires across Victoria. Police will use intelligence to monitor the fire risk and deploy additional resources to areas deemed high risk, particularly during fire danger periods. Assistant Commissioner State Emergencies and Support Command, Michael Grainger said that all Victorians have an obligation to maintain fire safety. “Preventing bushfires is everyone’s responsibility,” Grainger said. “We’re asking the community to be mindful of their activities during the summer period and act responsibly – it could be your actions the result in a devastating bushfire, causing loss of life and property.” When responding to an emergency like a bushfire, Victoria Police supports the lead fire agencies by co-ordinating evacuations, traffic management, and investigating and prosecuting those responsible for irresponsible or intentionally lit fires. With a wetter than average summer predicted, police are warning the community not to be complacent when it comes to their actions causing fires – even if unintentional. “Summer in Victoria means the risk of fire is imminent. In hot, dry and windy conditions, fires can start quickly, are fast-moving and can have devastating impacts. “Victoria Police takes any bushfire that is

deliberately or recklessly lit seriously. Police will investigate and take action to catch those responsible when a fire is deemed suspicious, whether it was deliberate or a reckless action.” Between July 2020 and June 202, there were 21 offences detected for recklessly causing a bushfire and 12 offences for intentionally causing a bushfire. The most common causes of recklessly lit fires include burning off, campfires, car exhausts and machinery, use of tools such as angle grinders and welding equipment, bonfires and flares and farming machinery such as harvesters. While recklessly lit fires are considered by many to be accidental, the outcome is often the same as that caused by arson with potential for injury, loss of life or property. Anyone found guilty of recklessly or intentionally causing a bushfire can face significant fines and penalties of up to 15 years’ imprisonment. Police are reminding the community of their role in preventing bushfires and encourage people to speak up and report any reckless or suspicious behaviour. Victorians should also stay informed using the Vic Emergency app and regularly check the Fire Danger rating to monitor the fire risk in their local area. Operation Safeguard will run until March 2022. Anyone who witnesses suspicious behaviour as it is occurring should phone Triple Zero (000) and anyone with any information should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au.

Danger remains despite later start to fire season

pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

There is still potential for grassfires despite the late start to the fire season. 147551 state and average conditions in the east of the state. The rainfall outlook and existing underlying moisture means there is a low likelihood of large-scale fires in the foothill forests, with below-normal risk across the eastern, northeast and central ranges and the Otways. Burnt areas from the 2018-19 and 201920 fire seasons are included as part of the below-normal fire risk in eastern Victoria as these forested areas continue to recover from recent fire seasons. In Victoria, emergency information is available on the VicEmergency app, emergency.vic.gov.au, and other emergency broadcasters including commercial and community radio stations or by phoning the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226 and following VicEmergency on Facebook or Twitter.

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Fast running grassfires will be a risk across Victoria this summer, with winter and spring rain leading to significant pasture growth in paddocks and roadsides. According to the update of the Australian Seasonal Bushfire Outlook, Victoria is expecting a normal fire season, with belownormal bushfire potential across the east. However, the potential for grassfires is still very real across Victoria. CFA deputy chief officer Alen Slijepcevic said Victorians should not get complacent due to the late onset of the fire season. “Even a normal fire season presents a potential high risk and we urge residents to prepare their properties and continue to keep on top of fast growing grass,“ Mr Slijepcevic said. “Anyone who lives in or travels through regional areas needs to monitor conditions and have a plan for dry, hot and windy days. “Grassfires travel faster than you can run, and they jump highways, so you need to activate your fire plan on those high-risk days before a fire starts.” The delayed harvest due to recent rain will heighten the fire risk associated with cropping, compared to previous years. Normal fire potential is expected in grasslands and dry forests and short-duration fires are still likely to occur under the right conditions – hot dry and windy days. During winter and spring, most of Victoria received average to above average rainfall, except the northwest and far west of the state. This has resulted in a later start to the fire season compared to recent years. The current climate outlook for summer indicates above average rainfall in some parts of Victoria with generally warmer than average conditions in the west of the

Thursday, 2 December, 2021

STAR NEWS 11

THE LOWDOWN Q&A

with Cranbourne West Primary School principal Andrew Bergmeier

Tell us a fun fact about yourself! I am the world’s worst singer but I don’t care! What are you most passionate about? I am most passionate about my family as I am so proud of them and constantly amazed that I helped to create them. What do you love about being a principal? It is such a fulfilling job on many different levels. I love helping and observing the staff and students grow their capacity so that they have a great chance to be successful in life. What is your experience in the industry? I started in 1974 at Collingwood Education Centre and have spent time in schools such as Keysborough PS (Chapel Road since closed), Wallacedale North PS (since closed), Cardinina PS, Devon Meadows PS, Clyde PS, Officer PS and now Cranbourne West PS. Who is the best person you’ve worked with? The staff at my current school are amazing and always go above and beyond to provide the students with the best experiences that they can. What would your last meal be? I probably wouldn’t feel like eating! However, I love seafood. What was your most memorable moment? Each of my children’s births provided unique experiences that are quite memorable. What was your favourite subject in school? I loved any of the humanities subjects at school. I really enjoy reading and history. What event past or present would you like to witness? The symbolism around the dismantling of the Berlin wall was extremely poignant and strong. Which three guests, dead or alive, would you invite to dinner? I would invite three authors: Trent Dalton as I have just read his latest book

Cranbourne West Primary School principal Andrew Bergmeier. Love Stories which was an incredible experience; Jeffrey Archer as he has the ability to weave stories like no other author I have read; and Matthew Reilly because he has the ability to weave extreme action and history into an exciting novel. What are you currently listening to, watching or reading? Currently I am reading a Chris Ryan thriller. How would you describe your fashion sense? My fashion is long sleeved shirt in winter and short sleeved shirt in summer. I am at an age where long pants are preferable. Have you had a pet that has made an impact on your life? I love dogs and we have had dogs all our married life. My favourite was a golden retriever who passed away on Australia Day two years ago. Our current dog is also beautiful. He is a Groodle with a really affectionate nature.

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The acclaimed actor worked under the name David Gulpili and was known for his movies Crocodile Dundee (1986), RabbitProof Fence (2002) and Australia (2008) and was awarded the Member of the Order of Australia in 1987.

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down now, r 200 days in lock Having spent ove mental health professionals psychologists and and more concerned about re are growing mo s’ mental health, of Melburnian that needs to the “dire” state invisible “crisis” labelling it as an ly. ent urg ed be address chologist and psy ical clin a Michael Tomek, logy in PakenLakeside Psycho ming to see the director of ly alar it was incredib to cope ham, said that ple struggling peo l loca of the amount moment. midthe mentally at the in ally g, I’m actu “It’s really alarmin to our local MP’s about a letter t dle of writing in the area righ lth hea tal men the dire state of so concerning,” Mr Tomek it’s now because said. STORY PAGE 5

Big bang theories

David Dalaithngu was born on July 1, 1953 in Arnhem Land, Northern Territory, Australia.

Picture: SUPPLIED

If you had to compete on MasterChef, what dish would you cook? My favourite and easiest dish would be a stir fry with random amounts of spices. I love cooking with honey to provide a bit of sweetness in spicy dishes. Where is your dream holiday destination? Believe it or not, at home on my deck. However, any resort in the world, so long as I don’t have to do anything. Preferably by the sea. What were you like as a kid? I grew up in a small country town, had enormous freedom, no TV, no devices, one radio station (the ABC) and so long as I was home by sundown, all was good. What is your favourite colour and why? Apparently I look best in blue. Do you consider yourself an extrovert or an introvert? Most people see me as an extrovert but I think I am a mixture.

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NEWS

Connecting communities By Jamie Salter The staff at Cranbourne West Primary School are helping to support the Afghan community to feel welcome in the community. Many Hazara families were experiencing significant stress from isolation during the most recent coronavirus lockdown. In August, Afghanistan’s capital city Kabul was taken over by Taliban forces. Local families were traumatised by the shocking event and deeply concerned for their family and friends overseas. Cranbourne West Primary School multicultural education support worker Lida Hazara recognised their troubles and took action to provide these families with extra support during the difficult period. She spoke with the school’s principal Andrew Bergmeier about the welfare of the children and families from Afghanistan, inviting staff to attend a Zoom meeting with herself and about 30 parents. From this meeting, Mr Bergmeier contacted the Department of Education and requested affected students be allowed to attend school for on-site supervision, to provide them support during a critical time. The school received approval to have students attend campus throughout the last two weeks of Term 3. Ms Hazara said knowing staff cared enough to advocate for their needs made a big difference. “It made a huge change, even I was in a bad condition at the time,” she said. “A lot of ladies shared their stories and tears and we never thought something was going to happen. “But we couldn’t look after ourselves, how could we look after our children? “When they came back to school, the children didn’t just learn, they went to see each other and play.” Mr Bergmeier said the Zoom call enlightened staff to the persecutions of Hazara people. ”Our meeting just about reduced us to tears, many families were experiencing a sense

Cranbourne West Primary School multicultural education support worker Lida Hazara and principal Andrew Bergmeier are helping to support the Afghan community. of helplessness,” he said. “The Education Department responded in a really positive way to the needs of these people - which we can’t fully understand. “People don’t realise the restorative effects a school can have on our children.” Ms Hazara has spent the past four years at the school working to create a sense of community.

Now, she is moving on to a new role at the Australian Asylum Seeker Resource Centre. “It’s my goal to work for the larger community,” she said. “Since I came here, I’ve changed a lot and found myself. “I’ve tried to connect two cultures together, if we help them, it means we help our country.”

Parent and community liaison Debbie Dodd said Ms Hazara created a community feel that hadn’t been there before her arrival. “She will be missed at Cranbourne West Primary School but in the same way that Mr Bergmeier has supported her development, she has also supported ours and we know that we will be able to continue her good work into the future,” Ms Dodd said.

Police to stamp out reckless fire behaviour this year Police are urging Victorians to remain vigilant about fire danger this summer, despite a wetter than average outlook for the upcoming season. Victoria Police has launched Operation Safeguard – an annual police operation which aims to deter or reduce the impact of intentional and recklessly lit fires across Victoria. Police will use intelligence to monitor the fire risk and deploy additional resources to areas deemed high risk, particularly during fire danger periods. Assistant Commissioner State Emergencies and Support Command, Michael Grainger said that all Victorians have an obligation to maintain fire safety. “Preventing bushfires is everyone’s responsibility,” Grainger said. “We’re asking the community to be mindful of their activities during the summer period and act responsibly – it could be your actions the result in a devastating bushfire, causing loss of life and property.”

Victoria Police have launched Operation Picture: UNSPLASH Safeguard. 260333 When responding to an emergency like a bushfire, Victoria Police supports the lead fire agencies by co-ordinating evacuations, traffic management, and investigating and prosecuting those responsible for irresponsible or intentionally lit fires. With a wetter than average summer pre-

dicted, police are warning the community not to be complacent when it comes to their actions causing fires – even if unintentional. “Summer in Victoria means the risk of fire is imminent. In hot, dry and windy conditions, fires can start quickly, are fast-moving and can have devastating impacts. “Victoria Police takes any bushfire that is deliberately or recklessly lit seriously. Police will investigate and take action to catch those responsible when a fire is deemed suspicious, whether it was deliberate or a reckless action.” Between July 2020 and June 202, there were 21 offences detected for recklessly causing a bushfire and 12 offences for intentionally causing a bushfire. The most common causes of recklessly lit fires include burning off, campfires, car exhausts and machinery, use of tools such as angle grinders and welding equipment, bonfires and flares and farming machinery such as harvesters.

While recklessly lit fires are considered by many to be accidental, the outcome is often the same as that caused by arson with potential for injury, loss of life or property. Anyone found guilty of recklessly or intentionally causing a bushfire can face significant fines and penalties of up to 15 years’ imprisonment. Police are reminding the community of their role in preventing bushfires and encourage people to speak up and report any reckless or suspicious behaviour. Victorians should also stay informed using the Vic Emergency app and regularly check the Fire Danger rating to monitor the fire risk in their local area. Operation Safeguard will run until March 2022. Anyone who witnesses suspicious behaviour as it is occurring should phone Triple Zero (000) and anyone with any information should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au.

Danger remains despite later start to fire season Fast running grassfires will be a risk across Victoria this summer, with winter and spring rain leading to significant pasture growth in paddocks and roadsides. According to the update of the Australian Seasonal Bushfire Outlook, Victoria is expecting a normal fire season, with below-normal bushfire potential across the east. However, the potential for grassfires is still very real across Victoria. CFA deputy chief officer Alen Slijepcevic said Victorians should not get complacent due to the late onset of the fire season. “Even a normal fire season presents a popakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

tential high risk and we urge residents to prepare their properties and continue to keep on top of fast growing grass,” Mr Slijepcevic said. “Anyone who lives in or travels through regional areas needs to monitor conditions and have a plan for dry, hot and windy days. “Grassfires travel faster than you can run, and they jump highways, so you need to activate your fire plan on those high-risk days before a fire starts.” The delayed harvest due to recent rain will heighten the fire risk associated with cropping, compared to previous years. Normal fire potential is expected in grasslands and dry forests and short-duration fires

are still likely to occur under the right conditions – hot dry and windy days. During winter and spring, most of Victoria received average to above average rainfall, except the northwest and far west of the state. This has resulted in a later start to the fire season compared to recent years. The current climate outlook for summer indicates above average rainfall in some parts of Victoria with generally warmer than average conditions in the west of the state and average conditions in the east of the state. The rainfall outlook and existing underlying moisture means there is a low likelihood

of large-scale fires in the foothill forests, with below-normal risk across the eastern, northeast and central ranges and the Otways. Burnt areas from the 2018-19 and 2019-20 fire seasons are included as part of the belownormal fire risk in eastern Victoria as these forested areas continue to recover from recent fire seasons. In Victoria, emergency information is available on the VicEmergency app, emergency.vic. gov.au, and other emergency broadcasters including commercial and community radio stations or by phoning the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226 and following VicEmergency on Facebook or Twitter. Thursday, 2 December, 2021

STAR NEWS 13

NEWS

Libraries delivering joy By Marcus Uhe

Customer Experience Officers Tim Cuthell and Natalina Colmanet with Keith Vethaak from Transit (centre) at Bunjil Place Library. 259582 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

“For seated service, they all have to be vaccinated,” Vethaak said.

“Unfortunately at the moment under the rules, it’s difficult for us to determine who’s vaccinated and who’s not. Most of the people who come, 50 per cent wouldn’t have phones, or wouldn’t know what their vaccination status is, or probably haven’t been vaccinated.

“So we thought, rather than having to turn people away, we’ll wait until we open up again next year. Hopefully by then we can have everybody in together.” To find your closest library to make a donation head to cclc.vic.gov.au/deliverjoy/

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Dir ty on dining

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

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Casey Cardinia Libraries are encouraging local residents to deliver joy to those in need this festive period by leaving donations at their local library. Each library in the area has partnered with a charity or community group to receive donations of toys, non-perishable items and toiletries. Casey Cardinia Libraries chief executive officer Beth Luppino said the libraries were proud to work with local charity groups and support those in the community who need a helping hand. “Our libraries are stronger and have more reach due to the incredible partners we work with,” Ms Luppino said. “The organisations we are working with on Deliver Joy are, like Casey Cardinia Libraries, committed to making a real and positive difference in our community. “The Deliver Joy campaign is such a lovely way to give back - and easy! What could be simpler than dropping off a donation of nonperishables next time you pick up a book? “If you are able, please support our collection this festive season and get food, toiletries and toys in the hands of people in need.” The Bunjil Place Library in Narre Warren is teaming up with the Transit Outreach Service who provide food and support services from the Narre Warren Christian Church to the less fortunate. “At the moment what we’re doing is providing food support to about 300-400 families a week,” Transit Coordinator Pastor Keith Vethaak said. “We get food from Ozharvest, Foodbank, Second Bite, they’re the three big ones. And then we get stuff from Coles and Woolworths, the Woolworths distribution centre” Transit have had to alter their operations

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Salam’s level experience Works to remove the dangerous and congested level crossing at Hallam are powering ahead, with one of the Level Crossing Removal Project’s most experienced engineers leading the way at the Hallam Road site. Salam Al-Mulla has worked on seven level crossing removal projects since first starting as a site engineer when the project began in 2015 and has contributed immensely to the success of the project. Al-Mulla said working on level crossing removals has given him the ability to develop skills across a broad range of areas thanks to the diverse nature of the work. “In terms of personal and professional development, one thing that is great about level crossing removal projects, is that they provide exposure to a number of different disciplines,” he said. “I have been involved with the rail systems, including signalling, and I have also delivered a number of civil, structural utility and station building works. “These projects have given me numerous skills, which allow me to fulfill my role here at Hallam while also allowing others to learn from my experiences so they can take a step forward as I did, from site engineer to construction manager.” From projects in St Albans, Blackburn, Caulfield, Dandenong, Lower Plenty, Heatherdale and now as a construction manager at Hallam, Sal – as he is known to his colleagues – has seen it all. The role of the construction manager is key on any project site, but it is particularly important at level crossing removals where crews are often working in congested areas to complete the job as quickly and as safely as possible, with minimal disruption to train services or roads. For Al-Mulla, this means ensuring the team is working well together so that the project is

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Salam Al-Mulla is up to his seventh level crossing removal site. 260298 delivered safely, successfully and on time, producing positive outcomes and benefits for the community. His engineering knowledge and level crossing removal experience is invaluable at the Hallam site, where crews are working to build a rail bridge over the road and a brand-new, elevated Hallam Station. Level Crossing Removal Project chief executive Kevin Devlin said that people like Al-Mulla have been crucial to delivering the project.

“Getting rid of more than 50 level crossings in six years is no easy feat, but our team of dedicated workers, sub-contractors and suppliers have made this huge achievement into a reality and I’d like to thank everyone for their hard work since the very beginning,” Devlin said. Sal’s contribution to the Pakenham and Cranbourne lines alone has been immense, not only through his work at Hallam Road, but also his work on the Caulfield to Dandenong project, which removed nine level crossings by

building elevated rail. He said being able to drive past these projects with his family and tell them he worked on them gave him immense pride. “I feel extremely proud to be part of this and the benefits it has provided the community,” Al-Mulla said. Works at the Hallam Road site will be completed in 2022, bringing the Pakenham line one step closer to being level crossing free by 2025.

BUSINESS PROFILE

New radiology clinic now open in Pakenham Radiology - behind the scenes - who are radiologists and what do they do? I-MED Radiology recently extended its clinic offerings to the Pakenham community, opening a brand-new purpose-built clinic at 20 Main Street on 22 November. The clinic is fully comprehensive and has a specialist doctor called a radiologist onsite. So who are radiologists? Radiologists are doctors who have specialised in reading and interpreting X-rays and scans to provide a diagnosis. Just like a cardiologist or paediatrician they have done additional training following their general doctor training. It takes around 12 years of training to become a radiologist. Radiologists then often sub specialise further in areas such as intervention or musculoskeletal radiology. What do radiologists actually do? Radiologists tailor radiology examinations to the specific requirements of the request received, and supervise the technical aspects of certain scans They work in partnership with the referring practitioner, providing consultation on specific cases to ensure the best possible outcome for the patient. They provide a written report on what they find on imaging scans and X-rays, they send this report back to the referring practitioner. They also perform procedures such as biopsies of breast lumps and therapeutic injections to ease back pain Where would you find a radiologist working? Radiology departments in hospitals and some private clinics. Not all radiology providers are the same, they don’t all have radiologists on site. At I-MED Radiology it is considered best practice to have radiologists working on site across all clinics. In Pakenham we have Dr David Wang, who is the radiologist reporting, supervising and providing consultation to local referring practitioners. 16 STAR NEWS

Thursday, 2 December, 2021

The team at I-MED Radiology Pakenham look forward to welcoming you at 20 Main Street, Pakenham. Is the person who takes the X-ray or performs the scan the radiologist? The person who takes the X-ray or performs the scan is a technician, they are known as radiographers, sonographers and mammographers. The have commonly completed a four-year university degree in medical imaging and often gone on to do further study and

specialisation. They do not report findings on the scans or X-rays, but they do work closely with the radiologist to ensure that all imaging is completed to the highest possible standard. Does the patient ever see the radiologist? Sometimes, most commonly if a procedure is being performed, or direct supervision is required for a scan. Patients can be assured that

in I-MED clinics the radiologists are busy working behind the scenes with the I-MED team and the local referring practitioners to ensure the best possible outcome for the patient. The team at I-MED Radiology Pakenham look forward to welcoming you. For more information or to book an appointment please visit the website i-med.com.au pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

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SPORT

Cup fever hits Pakenham By David Nagel A huge crowd will be buzzing as some of the best credentialed stayers in the land battle it out for the Listed $300,000 Sportsbet Pakenham Cup (2500m) on Saturday. The Michael Moroney-trained Sound, fresh off a win in the Group-2 Zipping Classic (2400m) at Caulfield on Saturday – headlines a stellar cast of stayers set to lock horns on the Pakenham Racing Club’s (PRC) magnificent turf track at Tynong. Runner-up in the Zipping – Dr Drill – has also been nominated for the Cup, set to be run in front of a huge crowd, on the first weekend of summer, after Covid restrictions stopped patrons from attending last year. This year’s cup will be the eighth rendition of the race at the new track since the Cameron Templeton-trained Captain Fancypantz won the last cup at the club’s former Racecourse Road facility in 2014. PRC Chief Executive Officer, Blair Odgers, said the club was delighted that a recent easing of restrictions would allow the club to share this year’s cup with an excited local community. “We are excited to be able to welcome patrons back trackside,” Odgers said. “The timing is fortune that, just prior or our premier Metropolitan race day – the Sportsbet Pakenham Cup - restrictions have eased to allow us to welcome a large event crowd back to Sportsbet Pakenham for the first time in nearly two years.” Odgers said that interest had been strong for this year’s cup, despite the event sure to have a different look and feel to previous years. “With the short lead time, we have had to make some alterations to what the traditional Sportsbet Pakenham Cup event has been,” Odgers said. “Some of our hospitality offerings have been simplified and streamlined, but the response has been really positive and some of our more popular precincts, such as the Summer Lawn Party, have had strong tickets sales since launch. “We are planning the event inside the 5000-patron Covid-safe plan.” The PRC CEO was delighted with the ongoing support of sponsors – particularly the naming rights sponsor this year. The PRC is also excited to run the first ever race on the now completed 1200-metre chute. “Our premier partner, Sportsbet, will once again support us through the 2021 event and we look forward to hosting them and their guests on course,” Odgers said. “I’m sure they will be offering the best prices available on the Sportsbet Pakenham Cup,

A huge crowd will descend on the Pakenham Racing Club on Saturday for the first time since the 2019 Pakenham Cup won by Etah James and jockey Fred Kersley. 202176 Picture: ROB CAREW and we are really excited to have the fifth race on the program jumping from the newly extended 1200m chute. “The Sportsbet Pakenham Cup is a pre-purchased only ticketed event, and we encourage everyone to make their travel plans early to avoid any delay in getting trackside.” Details on how to get to and from the track can be found at www.pakcup.com.au PAKENHAM CUP WINNERS – 1979 to 2020 YEAR HORSE TRAINER JOCKEY 2020 Attorney Nash Rawiller 2019 Etah James Fred Kersley 2018 Our Big Mike Jye McNeil 2017 Like a Carousel Linda Meech 2016 Pilote D’essai Reagan Bayliss 2015 Our Voodoo Prince Damien Oliver 2015 Tooleybuc Kid Brad Rawiller

2014 Captain Fancypantz 2013 Banca Mo 2012 Dance With Her 2011 Vivid Vixen (NZ) 2010 Blaze Adrift 2009 Sermon 2008 Sand Sweeper (NZ) 2007 Mr Toff (NZ) 2006 Wild Classic 2005 Masai (NZ) 2004 Youthful 2003 Mr Casanova 2002 Lord Kingston 2001 Lord of Illusion 2000 Ultra Smug 1999 Sunny Lane 1998 Atomic Comment 1997 Go Raami

Damian Lane Ben Knobel Jake Noonan Glen Boss Jason Maskiell David Chipman Mark Flaherty Blake Shinn Noel Callow Greg Childs Peter Mertens Nash Rawiller P. Mertens V. Hall Damien Oliver Danny Brereton Danny Nikolic Ivan Culliver

1996 Seductive Belle 1995 Sure Cut (NZ) 1994 Carranqui 1993 Zaparri 1992 Silver Dupion 1991 Gypsy Invader (NZ) 1990 Karawin (NZ) 1989 Fendalton 1988 Parslip 1987 Lake Worth (NZ) 1986 The Vagrant 1985 Amarla 1984 Bright Judge 1983 Kaza Calm 1982 Telopia 1981 Gallant Spectre 1980 Coroner 1979 Coroner

Damien Oliver Rod Griffiths Peter Hutchinson Simon Marshall Alf Mathews A.G. Clarke K. Forrester G. Murphy Rod Griffiths D. Gauci N. Wilson D. Short G. Hall B. Andrews W. Treloar P. Trotter I. Virtue I. Virtue

Groundhog day for Lions By David Nagel The Pakenham Football Club (PFC) is in the unique position of having to re-run its Annual General Meeting (AGM) after two life members of the club highlighted some flaws in the original process. PFC President Travis Hamilton confirmed that the club’s AGM, originally held on Thursday 4 November, will now be held again on Tuesday 7 December. “We have to have 20 members present to run the AGM constitutionally, and with a non-member in the room it meant we had 19,” Hamilton said. “We were one short; we had a complaint put forward from two life members of the club who highlighted the fact that the meeting should be held again.” The position of the life members – while legitimate - has fuelled speculation that there is currently division at the club. A lack of consultation and communication, in regards to some key decisions being made, has fuelled the speculation. “There is room for improvement, there is always room for improvement, there’s no doubt about that; it’s a tough gig from a volpakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

unteer’s point of view,” Hamilton said. It’s believed that Hamilton and the committee of the PFC have identified key areas of improvement and have put plans in place to improve communication - across the board moving forward. Hamilton said he understood the need to hold the AGM again, but felt for his current committee through the process. “I feel for the people who have worked so tirelessly over the last three years, to have to go through another AGM, especially with the work they do on a daily basis as volunteers,” Hamilton said. “From the Pakenham Football Club’s point of view, we haven’t been this strong with members, financials, and so forth, for many years, and it’s on the right path moving forward. “And it’s because of the hard work of the people we have on board at the moment.” Life-member, and four-time premiership player at Pakenham, Derrick Brown, said it was important that the club was being run according to the constitution. “I attended the Annual General Meeting and brought it to the attention of the president that I believed the meeting was uncon-

The Pakenham Football Club will re-run its AGM on Tuesday 7 December. 241978 Picture: ROB CAREW stitutional, for two reasons,” Brown said. “Under the constitution the club is required to give 28 days’ notice of the date, time and location of the meeting, and while two of those items were addressed in publication, the location wasn’t nominated until the 28th of October, which was seven days prior to the Annual General Meeting. “The second part to that is that it was un-

constitutional on the basis that there was not a sufficient amount of financial members at the meeting. “My concern as a life member is that the club is not being run as per the constitution. “As we all are only passing through the football club it is important that these rules are followed and we are run as a democratic association on behalf of the members.” Thursday, 2 December, 2021

STAR NEWS 19

SPORT

Gulls by a whisker By Tyler Lewis and Dave Nagel All the sums and equations of Saturday’s WGCA Premier Division clash between Tooradin and Pakenham at Westernport Oval add up to a comfortable Pakenham win. The Lions two best batters, the currently imperious Chris Smith (96) and skipper Dale Tormey (59) made stylish half centuries…the only two of an absorbing round-three encounter. On the other hand, the key piece of the Seagulls puzzle – star opener Tom Hussey – made a first-ball duck and strike bowlers Russell Lehman and Brad Butler were unable to bowl through injury. But, despite what would seem hugely influential factors in a game of cricket between these two sides, Tooradin (9/205cc) survived a wonderful challenge from Pakenham (4/199cc) to make it two-from-two this season and leave the Lions languishing as one of three teams yet to open their account. This game started strangely, with Lions’ opener Pat Lawson (2/36 off 7) first losing his run up and having to start again. A coughing and spluttering second attempt then resulted in a wide outside off-stump…before a third attempt was made. And Lawson made the wait worthwhile, bowling a full-pitched outswinger that caught the edge of Hussey’s bat and sailed to a gleeful Tormey at second slip. The Seagulls were 1/3 after one over, not one run off the bat, with the erratic – but dangerous – Lawson bowling three wides in the opening exchange of the contest. Lawson then trapped Ben Parrott (1) in front, leaving the Seagulls 2-8 off three overs with the Lions’ new-quick looking a real handful when nailing his line and length. Captain Cal O’Hare (22) and left-hander Josh Lownds (33) then set about re-building the home sides innings, first with some pokes and prods before Lownds delivered the first expansive shot of the day – a delightful cover drive off the bowling of off-spinner Jason Wil-

Judson Clarke, Mac Andrew and Miller Bergman all look good in their Berwick kits, but the Wickers are happy for them to don some new threads. 259753 Picture: STEW CHAMBERS

Berwick to the big-time By Tyler Lewis Jonty Bennie had the ball on a string on Saturday.. 259756 liams (0/23 off 8) in the sixth over. Williams opened the bowling and bowled unchanged – doing a wonderful job for Tormey who is glaringly short of new-ball options. Lownds looked set for a decent score, punishing Tom Brennan (1/31 off 6) through the leg side on numerous occasions before that shot became his undoing. Lownds picked out Troy McDermott at midwicket to end a 50-run stand with O’Hare that had no doubt steadied the ship. For the second week running Tooradin showed powerful depth with its batting, with O’Hare, Lehman (17), Tyler Evans (16) and Bailey Lownds (10) all chiming in with doublefigure contributions, while Dylan Sutton (47) and Brad Butler (34 not out) had the most significant impact in the mid to late overs. Sutton backed up his 37 not out from round two with another stylish contribution,

Picture: ROB CAREW

while Butler’s ability to launch two balls to the boundary – and two sailing over it – would prove critical in the final wash up. Kooweerup awaits – as the Lions search for their first win of the calendar year! Officer, meanwhile, entrenched itself in an extremely fascinating battle with Pakenham Upper Toomuc in District. The Bullants skittled the Yabbies for just 83 – Jonty Bennie and Cooper Pursell claimed 3/6 respectively – but found themselves in a spot of bother in the run chase, losing seven wickets in the short reply. Bullants opener Nick McLennan was authoritative in reply, crunching a match-saving 43 from 42 balls as the rest of his teammates failed to outscore the extras (13). Officer remains the only team undefeated in the District competition with the second seeded side Devon Meadows on the horizon this Saturday.

Windy weather can’t stop the tennis stars By David Nagel A windy Saturday morning couldn’t stop our local tennis stars from doing their thing with the Berwick District Tennis Association (BDTA) providing juniors with the perfect opportunity to showcase their talent. The great action continued on Sunday, this time in near perfect conditions. SATURDAY Osborne Shield Upper Beaconsfield 0 0:1 v Harkaway 3 6:36, Narre Warren 1 3:39 v Beaconsfield Green2 4:40, Beaconsfield Blue 3 6:36 v Fountain Gate 0 0:10. Rubbers 1 Berwick Blue 3 6:36 v Berwick White 0 0:14, Cranbourne 3 6:47v Beaconsfield 0 2:33, Harkaway 3 6:36 v Narre Warren 0 0:16. Rubbers 2 Berwick 1 3:32 v Drouin 2 4:35, Cranbourne 3 6:36 v Beaconsfield 0 0:4, Fountain Gate 0 1:26 v Bunyip 3 6:41. Rubbers 3 Officer 0 2:36 v Harkaway 3 6:44, Cranbourne 0 1:28 v Berwick 3 6:41, Pakenham – Bye. Rubbers 4 Fountain Gate 1 4:46 v Pakenham 2 5:45, Cranbourne 3 6:40 v Beaconsfield Red 0 1:20, Beaconsfield White 0 0:26 v Officer 3 6:39. Rubbers 5 Bunyip Red 0 0:9 v Pakenham 3 6:36, Beaconsfield wash out Bunyip White, Officer – Bye. Section 1 Harkaway 5:40 v Berwick 3:33, Cranbourne 3:32 v Sandhurst 5:39, Narre Warren North – Bye. Section 2 Berwick White 5:44 v Berwick Blue 3:37, Sandhurst missing results Beaconhills (Pak), Narre Warren 2:27 v Narre Warren North 6:45. Section 3 Pakenham 6:39 v Narre Warren 2:26, Narre Warren North 4:37 v Cranbourne Blue 4:35,

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20 STAR NEWS

Thursday, 2 December, 2021

Emilia Klarica hits a high-forehand for Beaconsfield. 258775 Cranbourne Gold 2:32 v Clyde 6:42. Section 4 Beaconhills (Pak) 7:42 v Beaconsfield 1:30, Upper Beaconsfield 6:43 v Pakenham 2:27. Section 5 Berwick White 5:35 v Berwick Blue 3:31, Clyde 1:26 v Cranbourne 7:46, Gloucester 3:33 v Narre Warren North 5:40. Section 6 Berwick White 7:43 v Berwick Blue 1:17, Narre Warren South v Cranbourne 3:25, Beaconsfield 5:39 v Pakenham 3:33. Section 7 Cranbourne 5:42 v Narre Warren 3:27, Sandhurst 5:35 v Narre Warren 3:36 North, Clyde – Bye. Section 8 Upper Beaconsfield 1:22 v Officer 7:46, Fountain Gate 7:44 v Sandhurst 1:14, Lang Lang – Bye. SUNDAY Section 9 Berwick 1:21 v Narre Warren 7:45, Beaconhills (Pak) 3:37 v Cranbourne 5:41, Officer 2:22 v Beaconsfield 6:38.

· · · · ·

Picture: ROB CAREW

Section 10 Pakenham 4:34 v Berwick 4:37, Fountain Gate 1:13 v Officer 7:42, Clyde 2:22 v Tooradin 6:41. Section 11 Berwick Blue 3:26 v Berwick White 5:39, Beaconsfield 1:13 v Cranbourne 7:43, Pakenham – Bye. Section 12 Cranbourne 6:47 v Officer Blue 2:37, Officer White 5:35 v Beaconsfield 3:33, Berwick – Bye. Section 13 Berwick Blue 2:29 v Berwick White 6:43, Fountain Gate 3:24 v Sandhurst 5:30, Narre Warren – Bye. Section 14 Doubles Berwick 2:17 v Clyde 4:30, Narre Warren South 2:27 v Officer 4:28, Narre Warren – Bye. Section 15 Doubles Cranbourne 3:24 v Berwick 3:25, Narre Warren 0:12 v Upper Beaconsfield 6:36, Gloucester – Bye. Section 16 Doubles (4-team section) Officer 0:7 v Narre Warren South 6:36, Tooradin missing results Sandhurst.

· · · · · · ·

When Berwick Football Club president Glenn Gambetta met the Andrew family many years back, he knew instantly they were special. “His dad is about 6’5 and his mum is about 6’0, they looked like royalty, it was awesome,” he said of his first encounter with Mac Andrew’s parents. Despite being swamped by media commitments after being drafted, Mac Andrew (Pick 5 Gold Coast Suns), Judson Clarke (Pick 30 Richmond) and Miller Bergman (Pick 38 North Melbourne) found time to head back to the old stomping ground for a photo-shoot. The truth is, the famously confident Berwick planned it before the boys heard their names called. “We were so excited – it’s a bit arrogant – but one of the dads had preplanned that once they get drafted, we will get them to the footy club,” Gambetta said. “So that photo-shoot we did the other day was half organized three weeks ago.” While admitting the trio didn’t spend much time at Berwick Senior Club – frying much larger fish – the president was over the moon for the ‘brand’ the club is producing with such a plethora of young talent emerging from Edwin Flack Reserve. “I think from our brand point of view, it really supports that,” he said. “We had Oscar Clavarino drafted a few years ago and then these three. “You get 60 guys drafted around the country and three of them are from one club. “I am as proud for the junior club as I am for the senior club. “We really wanted to create a really strong culture that attracted – not only good players – but good people to the club. “The focus is about getting good people to the club and good coaches and then that’ll flow through to the senior club. “Each year our senior guys go down and train with the juniors, when there is a bye, every senior player in groups of four will go take a junior team for training. “Every team from the under-10’s through to the under-17’s, I think that is important, creating the connection,” Gambetta said. While there is plenty of excitement coming around the trio of stars that are yet to play a game, Gambetta is already excited for the younger brothers of Mac Andrew and also some other Bergman players. “I am assuming they’re going to be 6’5 and super athletic,” he joked of what Mac’s brothers will become. “There are two more to come through; you have big Mac and then those two coming through. “There are a couple Bergman boys coming through too, we could be having this conversation every two years.” pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au