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Trees of splendour
Recognising CFA volunteers
Kah back with a bang!
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SPORT
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Scout leaders honoured
Lighting up By Gabriella Payne
Martin and Kelly’s Pakenham home is twinkling with tens of thousands of lights - all for a great cause. Picture: SUPPLIED, MELBOURNE PLAYGROUNDS
In a bid to spread the good cheer and leave behind the Covid woes, many locals have gone above and beyond with their Christmas displays this year, brightening up the streets and people’s spirits in the process. One Pakenham family’s spectacular display is not only shedding a little light with the community, but is also raising money for a good cause at the same time. Martin and Kelly (both keen Christmas enthusiasts) love decorating their Kristina Court home each year for the festive season - but the young couple decided to take it up a notch this time around. “Last year we had about 50,000 lights, but this year we’ve almost doubled that, so I would guess there’s anywhere from 60,000 to 100,000 lights up right now. “And across the road is very similar, they have a slightly different set up to us - but between us we both have a lot of lights!“ Martin laughed. “We just love doing it and thought why not do it for charity to raise money at the same time?“ The family have chosen to support Camp Quality this year, a not-for-profit organisation that helps children living with cancer and their families through treatment and recovery. Read more on page 9
Violence dismay assaults in Victoria for the first time, in response to the Victorian Government’s commitment to building an evidence base under the Family Violence Reform Rolling Action Plan. Crime Statistics Agency chief statistician Fiona Dowsley noted the value of the publica12497982-JW24-21
The 2020-21 financial year produced some of the highest figures for sexual offences and family incidents in Victoria in the last five years, according to data from the 2020-21 Vic-
torian Family Violence Database. A ‘family incident’ includes offences such as family violence, interfamilial-related sexual offences, and child abuse incidents attended by police, according to the Crime Statistics Agency. The database included statistics on sexual
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tion of sexual assault data through the database. “For the first time, this year’s database provides an in-depth look at sexual assault data in Victoria, including the overlaps between family violence and sexual assault,” Ms Dowsley said. Continued page 7
JASON WOOD MP FEDERAL MEMBER FOR LA TROBE 03 9768 9164 JasonWood.Updates Authorised by J.Wood, Liberal Party of Australia, 3/16 Langmore Ln, Berwick VIC 3806.
12454762-DL38-20
By Marcus Uhe
NEWS
Outlook team honoured Outlook has been recognised in the 2021 Victorian Disability Awards for its work in the disability employment sector. Head of operations Anne McCormick said to recognition for the ‘Ways to Work’ program was exciting. “But it’s not about us sitting on accolades. We want this to be a message to employers that people with disabilities make fantastic employees,” she said. The Ways to Work model of employment for people with disabilities received a highly commended in the ’Excellence in Employment Outcomes’ category of the awards. “If you have employment, the empowerment you have continues to grow,” Anne said.
“We see people grow personally after gaining employment. They might leave home and live independently, may find a partner. “Their journey is just like everyone else’slife is harder if you don’t have a job.” Anne said having an outcome of employment was always fantastic for participants, but the program was also about gaining usuable skills. “We do a lot of work with kids leaving school, teaching them interview skills and giving them to knowledge to be work ready,“ she said.
The team at Outlook with the award certificate.
Locals are fed up with dangerous road The Healesville-Kooweerup Road has long been in need of some major upgrades, and it seems locals are now taking to the streets to let their voices be heard. This sign popped up near the Bald Hill Road roundabout in Pakenham last week, and it certainly gets the message across loud and clear, reading: ’FIX THIS BLOODY ROAD’. Locals have been pushing to get the deadly stretch of road fixed for a long time now, and after recent storms and lashings of rain left it even more pothole ridden than before, upgrades are needed now more than ever. Hopefully this straight forward message is heard at a higher level!
Roadworks Racecourse Road will be closed between Bald Hill Road and Henry Street nightly until Friday 17 December, from 8pm to 5am, as part of the Level Crossing Removal Project. As a detour, use Henry Street, John Street, Princes Highway, McGregor Road and Henty Street. It is part of the program of work to improve and extend Melbourne’s road and rail network. Many of these works are weatherdependent, so dates and times may change. Check Victoria’s Big Build for project and disruption updates. For real-time information, see VicTraffic and follow us on Twitter. For public transport disruptions check the PTV website.
It seems locals are taking matters into their own hands when it comes to the state of Healesville-Kooweerup Road. 261132 Picture: GABRIELLA PAYNE
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 and easing congestion by building better roads and bridges across our suburbs. Train disruptions: Buses replace trains in both directions Cranbourne and Pakenham lines
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 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
Princes Freeway, Berwick
In Dec
Rough surface and speed restrictions between Princes Highway and Clyde Road
Princes Freeway, Officer
At night, Dec
Freeway closed between Clyde and Cardinia roads
Monash Freeway
In Dec
Overnight freeway closures, daytime lane and ramp closures between Warrigal Road and Eastlink
Hallam North Road and Heatherton Road, Endeavour Hills
In Jan
Intersection closed
Grant Road, Somerville
Jan to Mar
Closed at Speedwell Street
12525529-JW50-21
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, 9 December, 2021
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Find a detailed list of disruptions at bigbuild.vic.gov.au
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NEWS
High-tech domestic abusers disrupted By Danielle Kutchel Family violence takes many forms, and a new project aims to identify and disrupt one of its more modern and insidious forms. Homelessness and family violence support service Wayss has partnered with safety assessment provider Protective Group to create the Nicholson Project, which explores new ways of disrupting digital abuse. A report into the pilot has just been released, and the results show just how needed the approach is. Research suggests 99.3 per cent of family violence workers in Australia have clients who had experienced technology-facilitated stalking and abuse. “It’s well-known in the sector that technology, social media and online means are used as a way to perpetrate abuse and exact coercive control over family violence survivor-victims,” explained Robyn Roberts, who oversaw the pilot as general manager of client services at Wayss. “Wayss has increasingly heard from family violence victims referred to our service that they believed they are being tracked, stalked and controlled by their abuser using technology. “Others referred to us were unaware this often-hidden form of abuse was happening to them and their children, leaving them vulnerable to further abuse.” The question was how to protect survivorvictims and their families, as quickly as possible. Early intervention against high-tech abuse is not always part of the immediate response from family violence services. And, the ever-increasing sophistication of technology and the internet is often beyond the capacity of family violence workers. “We needed a way to provide a skilled, targeted early intervention that assessed the digital vulnerability of family violence victims, removing the threat of technology-facilitated abuse and enabling their ongoing safety,” Ms Roberts said. Typically, services like Protective Group will visit survivor-victims to conduct a physical as-
sessment of their safety, including their online devices. The aim of the Nicholson Project was to complete these assessments remotely. This can reduce the amount of time needed to make vulnerable families as safe as possible. After this remote assessment, if vulnerabilities are identified, Protective Group will conduct an in-person assessment. The report into the project found interpreters and in-language information were important tools. For the assessment, families need to charge all their devices and gather information about all accounts – from social media to financial. The report also found that many survivorvictims don’t believe they are experiencing technology-facilitated abuse – highlighting that all survivor-victims should take the assessment, even if they don’t believe they are at risk. Finally, the report noted that children and young people can become victims too, or be used as proxy abusers by the perpetrator, so their devices need to be included in the assessment. Ms Roberts said the pilot had positive benefits for survivor-victims.
“We found that participants felt more confident that they were not being tracked and abused via technology as well as in their knowledge and ability to manage their use of technology and online platforms,” says Ms Roberts. The pilot comes at a key time, with the south east continuing to record some of the highest rates of family violence in the state. According to the latest crime statistics, the City of Casey recorded an 8.6 per cent increase in family incidents to the end of June 2021 – the third straight rise. Greater Dandenong recorded a 0.3 per cent increase, and Cardinia 1.8 per cent. Wayss and Protective Group are now focused on building their knowledge in the area and increasing the availability of the project. “The ability to deliver the service remotely in the first instance provides huge potential to scale this up to make this kind of support available to more victims of family violence across Victoria and Australia,” Ms Roberts said. If you are in need of assistance, contact The Orange Door on 1800 271 170 or orangedoor. vic.gov.au, or Wayss at wayss.org.au If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call Triple Zero.
Tasty burger opening attracts big crowds Almost 2000 burgers were sold on the first day of trading for Yo My Goodness (YOMG) Pakenham Saturday 4 December. The burger and frozen yoghurt restaurant saw hundreds of people through the doors for the store’s grand opening. Read more on page 8
Fadia (left) and Erin served up a host of tasty treats at the YOMG opening. 260088 Picture: ROB CAREW
Gun charge By Cam Lucadou-Wells A Narre Warren South man has been jailed as part of an organised crime ring in drugs, guns and stolen luxury cars. Malaki Salesui, 22, was the last of four offenders sentenced as part of an undercover police sting in Melbourne’s South East in 2019. He pleaded guilty to handling an $180,000 stolen Mercedes Benz and a $26,000 stolen Audi, as well as being a prohibited person possessing a fullyautomatic SKS assault rifle. Victorian County Court sentencing judge Gerard Mullaly on 2 December noted the “particularly lethal” rifle, capable of firing 100 rounds a minute, was of “great concern”. The stolen cars were also of seriously high value. However, Salesui played a lesser role in the organised racket, which was busted by several covert police operatives as part of Operation Thrives. A co-accused Jayden Schmidt arranged to sell the stolen Audi with the assault rifle in the car boot to a covert police operative for $18,000. Salesui drove the stolen merchandise to Olive Street, Dandenong where the transaction was made. In June 2019, Salesui arranged for the stolen Merc to be towed to a Pakenham address and later towed to Worrell Street, Dandenong to sell to a police operative. At that rendezvous, two of his cooffenders were arrested by Special Operations Group police. Salesui later presented himself to Melbourne West police station. Salesui’s youth – 19 years at the time – was a central factor for a more “merciful” sentence, the judge noted. “The courts must persevere and endeavour, perhaps by carrot and stick, to move you towards … your rehabilitation.” Raised in the South East suburbs, Salesui had struggled with alcohol and substance abuse. His intellectual disability, “fragile” mental health and solid church and family relationships were also taken into account. As were his early plea, long delay in sentencing and being remanded in adult jail in onerous pandemic conditions. Salesui’s recently-approved NDIS support was “said to be the most sure way to … settle you when you’re back in the community”. Co-offenders Schmidt, of Narre Warren, Iqan Mehrdadian, of Trugannina, and Andrew Rohan, of Hampton Park, were sentenced in the County Court in May and June. Schmidt and Rohan, who were also sentenced for serious separate offending, were jailed for up to three years and eight months and five years respectively. Judge Mullaly said Salesui’s lesser role was most similar to Mehrdadian, who was jailed for 13 months with a two-year community corrections order. However, Salesui warranted a different sentence due to his intellectual disability. He was jailed for 10 months – of which he had already been served in 317 days of pre-sentence detention. Salesui was facing possibly further jail at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court hearing the next day, Judge Mullaly noted.
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STAR NEWS 3
THE LOWDOWN Q&A
with Susan Davies, Secretary of the Westernport Swamp Landcare Group
Can you briefly introduce yourself? I’m Susan Davies, the Secretary of the Westernport Swamp Landcare Group and I live on a 50 acre farmlet in the swamp grasslands leading an idyllic life.
What are you currently reading? The Pakenham Gazette, Call of the Reed Warbler by Charles Massy about regenerative agriculture, and Slater Field Guide to Australian Birds.
Are you from Kooweerup originally? Not a Kooweerup old timer yet. As a kid in the ‘50s and ‘60s, I lived on a farm at Queenscliff, in the ‘70s in Melbourne as an office worker, the Dandenongs in the ‘80s, then the ‘90s in Nar Nar Goon North, and since 2000s in the Bayles/Monomeith area.
If you could invite six guests to a dinner party, who would you invite? Dr Andrew Campbell of Landcare Australia, Rachel Berger comedienne, Charlie Bezzina detective, Greg Hunt Minister for Health, Arron Wood environmentalist, Professor Michael Buxton architect.
And what is your favourite thing about the local community? Amazingly genuine people! And there are lots of great local annual events. I am a member of the KWR Swamp and Lang Lang Historical Societies, Westernport Biosphere, and HPNL. org.au In your opinion, where is the most beautiful spot in the Cardinia Shire? The Lang Lang Primary School Arboretum at the top of town is a hidden three acres of magical nature reserve, full of native flora and fauna, where our Landcare group has just held three successful Bug Blitz Days for students, thanks to a Beach Energy grant. May I add, the best treasure is the Yallock Creek! It’s the most wonderful biolink full of birds and remnant swamp vegetation, where one may even spot an endangered bandicoot. Starting at Cora Lynn Outfall with its flood history, one can drive down to Murray Road Bridge with magnificent views to hills, then along lovely Dineen Road to Bandicoot Corner run by CEC, then to the Bayles Bridge and MW easements to reach the Bayles Fauna Park. Continue down to No 5 Drain Road Bridges to see more amazing natural assets. The Yallock then runs
Sue Davies loves the native landscape and is a big part of the local community. Picture: GABRIELLA PAYNE
At school … although quiet and shy, I was always the best speller in class.
through several large farms and traverses the Rail Trail to reach Anis Rest Picnic Park on South Gipps Hwy where there is a plaque of first cattle run 1839 in district. The Yallock goes under the highway meandering through teatrees, farmland and saltmarsh to reach Western Port - a UNESCO Ramsar site for migratory shore birds.
What is your favourite native plant and why? I need an A4 sheet please! I adore all the indigenous species of the great Kooweerup swamp, namely manna & swamp gums, cherry ballarts, swamp tea-trees, the wattles, hop goodenias, kangaroo apples, poas, reeds, sedges and ferns, because they are naturally suited to the growing conditions. How beautiful are the whispering phragmites along the waterways. How gorgeous are the golden wattles flowering along our roadsides and bridges. Prettiest of all is the clematis traipsing over trees in spring with prolific fluffy cream flowers.
How long have you been a part of the Westernport Swamp Landcare Group for and what do you like about being involved in the group? I joined Landcare in 1997. I love the tremendous bunch of vital people caring for neighbours and our local land. What is your favourite food? Roast dinner, vegetables, salads, fruit, blackberry pie with custard and cream. If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would you go and why? No, nope, I love where I live!
What is something people don’t know about you? People do not realise my main wish is for the world to treat all animals humanely, and secondly to protect wildlife habitat and ecosystems.
THREE … Australian authors writing about disability
1
Growing Up Disabled in Australia by Carly Findlay, released in 2021, has more than 40 writers with a disability or chronic illness share their stories. Carly Findlay OAM is an award-winning writer, speaker and appearance activist. Her first book, a memoir called Say Hello, was released in 2019. She lives in Melbourne.
2
The Shape of Sound by Fiona Murphy, released in 2021, is a memoir about being deaf. Fiona Murphy is an award-winning deaf poet and essayist based in the Blue Mountains, NSW.
3
Ugly by Robert Hoge is an account of his life, from the time of his birth to the arrival of his own daughter. Mr Hoge was born with a tumour the size of a tennis ball in the middle of his face, and deformed legs. He lives in Brisbane with his wife and two daughters.
And what is your favourite type of music? Rock ‘n’ Roll.
NEWS
Save with bonus offer The Victorian Government is encouraging households doing it tough with energy bills to apply for the one-off $250 Power Saving Bonus payment, as the 12-month program marks more than 320,000 payments totalling more than $80 million. Bass MP Jordan Crugnale is encouraging all eligible households (who have not already applied for this rebate) to take advantage of the one-off $250 payment before the program ends on 31 January 2022. “There are still many eligible households across the Cardinia and Bass Local Government Areas who have not yet applied for what could be crucial financial relief throughout the second year of Covid-19, including those receiving the Aged Pension,“ Ms Crugnale said. “This one-off $250 payment helps reduce household bill pressure, so if you or anyone you know receives a pension, JobSeeker, Austudy, Abstudy or Youth Allowance, please check eligibility and apply - we are here to help with the application.“ Households can apply for the scheme by calling 1800 000 832 or visiting compare.energy.vic.gov.au. To assist eligible households who may not have access to a computer or require assistance with their application, the government is providing support through the Power Saving Bonus Community Outreach Program. Outreach Program partners include the Brotherhood of St. Laurence, Consumer Policy Research Centre, Good Shepherd and Neighbourhood House, Ethnic Communities Council of Victoria, Consumer Action Law Centre, and State Trustees Limited. 4 STAR NEWS
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Thursday, 9 December, 2021
Pakenham Living and Learning Centre is another more local resource that can assist households with the application (contact 03 5941 2389). If anyone is having trouble applying for the Power Saving Bonus online or needs support, you can also reach out directly to Jordan Crugnale’s office on 03 5672 4755. Eligibility extends to households receiving payments through the Pension Concession, JobSeeker, Austudy, Abstudy or Youth Allowance programs, or who hold a Department of Veterans’ Affairs Gold Card. With electricity bills a top cost of living issue and about 20 per cent of Victorian households requesting financial assistance with bills in 2020, the program aims to reduce cost of living pressure with a $250 payment transferred electronically into bank accounts or provided via cheque on request, typically taking about two weeks to arrive. The Power Saving Bonus, part of a $797 million household energy affordability package, is delivered through the government’s Victorian Energy Compare website, which sees more than one million visitors each year. The website helps consumers find the best energy deal available, with data showing seven out of every 10 users save money by switching energy offers and a typical annual saving of $330.
Bass MP Jordan Crugnale is encouraging all eligible households in the area to apply for the payment. Picture: SUPPLIED pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
Olive Elston, Lyn Stephenson, Margaret Turner and Bob Taylor.
Olive Elston (left) received the Silver Kangaroo recently.
Scout leaders honoured Two women who have dedicated over half a century to Scouts in Cardinia Shire have finally been awarded their Medal of the Order of Australia. Scouting stalwarts Margaret Turner and Lyn Stephenson were invested with the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) earlier this year. Last month, they were able to attend a ceremony held by Her Excellency the Governor of Victoria in the ballroom of Government House to receive their award.
Ms Turner and Ms Stephenson have already given 64 and 53 years service respectively in Scouting to support the youth in Cardinia Shire. This was followed by the Governor hosting the first post Covid afternoon tea outside in the Fountain Courtyard supported by former Cardinia District Commissioner Olive Elston OAM and Bob Taylor AM, also a former DC and former Chief Commissioner of Scouts Victoria. Olive has also been invested with the Silver Kangaroo, for Eminent Achievement and
Meritorious Service on Sunday at Gilwell Park Gembrook by the Chief Commissioner of Victoria for 35 years of service with Scouts. Over her time in Scouting, Olive has held many roles including two separate stints as District Commissioner. Olive agreed to take on the role of District Commissioner in 2016. She has created a culture of learning, enthusiasm, mentoring and most importantly having fun whilst enjoying the program.
In the background, Olive practiced what she preached and mentored many of her leadership team and challenged her team to grow Scouting. Olive has mentored leaders who have now stepped up to take Cardinia to the next stage in their growth. Olive continues to assist the growth of Scouting by taking up short stints in groups, to ensure they benefit from an enthusiastic Leader and a quality program for our youth.
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Thursday, 9 December, 2021
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STAR NEWS 5
OPINION
Upcoming works change conditions
LENSCAPE
Traffic conditions on Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road are set to change. As part of the Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road Upgrade, ground and utility service investigations will continue throughout December so construction will be ready to start in early 2022. The investigations will occur between Thompsons Road and South Gippsland Highway, and on Berwick-Cranbourne Road between Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road and Broad Oak Drive. Short term lane and shoulder closures may occassionally be implemented as well as reduced speeds to keep workers and motorists safe. Drivers have been asked to follow on-road signage and traffic controllers’ instructions, and allow extra time for journeys. The works will occur on weekdays between 7am and 5pm, however, some works will need to be completed overnight to minimise disruption to the community. These works will occur between 8pm and 5am. Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road will become the straight through route when travelling north from South Gippsland Highway, aiming to reduce traffic on Cranbourne’s High Street. For more information, visit roadprojects. vic.gov.au Emily from Fallachi Hair and her daughter Alaska were all smiles. 260439
THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN Thumbs Down! To the Casey Hospital emergency department. An eight hour wait before my daughter was admitted with a ruptured appendix and underwent surgery.
Pakenham Berwick Cranbourne Drouin
www.davidwbull.com.au
1213066-EPJ04-16
David W Bull Funeral Directors Provide understanding care and personal service.
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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
Thumbs Down!
To all long grass everywhere.
To Casey Council for the state of surrounding parks and gardens, and still trees down due to the storm!
Thumbs Down!
Thumbs Down!
Thumbs Up!
To the people who can’t be bothered to park their cars properly.
To having a real break over Christmas with family.
To our ’whinge and win’ society.
Thumbs Up Thumbs Down is your chance to have your say. Malicious or defamatory submissions will not be accepted. All submissions must include a full name address and daytime phone number. Contributions over the phone will not be accepted. Contributors will not be identified. The Star News reserves the right to edit submissions. To submit a Thumbs Up Thumbs Down email to dailyeditor@starnewsgroup.com.au fax to 5945 0777 or post to P.O. Box 9 Pakenham 3810.
SOCIALLY SPEAKING Proving he’s at the top of the Australian country music scene, Berwick-based artist Andrew Swift has received two nominations in the 2021 Toyota Golden Guitar Awards. Here’s what our Facebook readers had to say about the nominations. Sue James: Awesome Andrew, love our locals. Melinda Lenders: Great stuff Swifty. Love your work. June Reidy: Well done Andrew and good luck with your new album. Ralston Avery: Congratulations mate! Greg Overdyk: Do yourself a favour and get his album. Alan Sandford: Yes he is a legend, great music. Stanley Young: Can remember Andrew started off playing in the corner at Purvies many years ago to gain experience in the music industry. Well done Andrew.
Beaconshills College’s hampers of hope
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To the many homes that make an amazing effort in decorating for Christmas.
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Thursday, 9 December, 2021
Christmas is a time for giving, and one local school has gone the extra mile to ensure vulnerable community members don’t go without this festive season. Hundreds of hampers will go to local families in need this Christmas thanks to generous donations from the Beaconhills College community to its ’Hope for Christmas Appeal’. The College’s Berwick and Pakenham Campus families, including Friends of the Pakenham Campus Junior School and school staff all donated money and boxes full of grocery items and toys to this year’s appeal. Students from the Beacon of Hope student committee including Sarah Davis, Dylan Crossley and Sarah Lockwood (pictured) have been busy sorting and packing the goods for distribution to charity organisations across the local region.
L-R: Sarah Davis, Dylan Crossley and Sarah Lockwood are excited to be a part of the appeal and help give back to those in need this Christmas. Picture: SUPPLIED Hampers will include a Christmas card designed by individual students with their personal message to the recipient. Beaconhills’ Head of Citizenship and Ser-
vice Clare Tuohy said once again the school community had shown extraordinary generosity in helping make Christmas a little brighter for those experiencing hardship. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
An artist’s impression of the completed Central Park.
Pictures: SUPPLIED
New Officer park coming Construction has commenced on a new community park in Officer, which is expected to be completed and open to the public in April 2022 in the Hillstowe by AVID Property Group (AVID) community. Hillstowe Central Park will be more than one hectare in size and will include a tree grove with ornamental fruit trees chosen to reflect the historical fruit growing history of the region, a multi-age play space ,and a basketball court that allows adults and children alike to get active in their local community. AVID Victorian general manager Peter Vlitas said park designs like this delivered more than just beautiful spaces for the community, as they were important facilities in aiding to the health and wellbeing of residents and visitors alike.
“We’re thrilled to be able to announce the construction of this feature park for the Hillstowe and Officer community. More than ever, residents are spending time in their local parks, and we’re looking forward to bringing this stunning park to life for people of all ages to enjoy,” Mr Vlitas said. “Hillstowe is a boutique community and will be home to around 600 residents and the Hillstowe Central Park sits right in the heart of the community. “The purpose behind the design and placement is to create a space where people of all ages could gather and connect. We invite everyone to use the park as part of their daily exercise routine, as a space to relax and enjoy the outdoors or as a place to meet up with family, friends and neighbours once it is complete.“
AVID development manager Ruwen Moodly onsite at the Hillstowe Central Park.
Family violence statistics are a cause for dismay From page 1 “Monitoring and publication of this data is important for increasing understanding so responses to both sexual assault and family violence can continue to be improved.” Along with state-wide statistics, figures were also grouped by Local Government Areas with the City of Casey ranked sixth for recorded sexual assault offences in the last financial year with 488, and Greater Dandenong not far behind at ninth on 431. Cardinia Shire Council was significantly lower at 154 offences, however, when compared to Casey for cases per 100,000 people, they ranked similarly at 130 compared to Casey’s 132.1.
Greater Dandenong was considerably higher on the cases per 100,000 figure at 262.2. Casey was also in the top 10 LGAs for the number of emergency room presentations for sexual violence injuries between July 1 2016 and June 30 2021. There were a number of key findings from the data. There was an increase of 10.8 per cent in the number of sexual offences recorded by police, up from 13,589 in 2019-20 to 15,062 in 2020-21. Overall, the number of family incidents recorded by Victoria Police increased by 6 per cent from 82,205 in 2019-20 to 93,440 in 202021.
Larger increases were seen in the number of incidents recorded between former partners, up 8 per cent, and where the victim was the child of the alleged perpetrator, up 14 per cent. Other significant state-wide numbers from the data included: - 2021 had highest number of recorded sexual offences in the five-year period with 15062 cases, an increase of 8 per cent from 2020 with 13859. - The number of recorded family violence incidents by financial year has increased every year since 2018, peaking at 93,441 in 2020-21. - The number of sexual offences against children was up 44.1 per cent from 2272 in
2020 to 3274 in 2021. - Between 2017 and 2021, women were three times more likely to be victims of family violence than men, while men were three times more likely to be offenders. - There were just under 200 more recorded sexual offences by 25-34-year-olds (1053) in the 2020/2021 financial year than the next highest age group, which was 35-44 year olds with 859. - 2021 saw the highest number of recorded sexual offences by men in the five-year period with 4036 recorded offences, up from 3521 in 2020.
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Oh my goodness! A spokesperson for YOMG Pakenham said the store’s first day of trading was epic. “Over 1800 burgers sold! Thank you Pakenham for the warm welcome,“ they said. “We cannot wait to meet you all as your new go-to local for burgers, shakes and froyo! “To continue to celebrations, we are also pouring 2 FOR 1 Frozen Yogurt all week daily from 11am til Sunday Dec 12!“ 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 thick-shakes and the goodness of handcrafted 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 is open at Shop FT-05 Pakenham Lifestyle Centre, 825 Princes Highway, Pakenham.
Ariel with Aurora, 4, in Christmas spirit for the grand opening. 260088
The “Nova 100 Casanovas” Dominique and Pat thrilled visitors with games and activities.
Two-year-old Morrissey’s face captures the mood of the day. 260088 Pictures: ROB CAREW
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Stirring trouble By Mitchell Clarke It was the initiative that dished up smiles during lockdown, but now a decrepit looking Spoonville site in Pakenham is providing any-
It was the initiative that dished up smiles during lockdown, but now a decrepit looking Spoonville site in Pakenham is providing anything but joy. During the one hour exercise limit - which is now a distant memory - Spoonville sites across Cardinia Shire were the most popular place to visit. Despite the fad having died down entirely, the Cardinia Lakes community was understandably upset at news their local site appeared to have been targeted by cruel vandals. Estate resident Laksika noticed the destroyed site during her daily walk on Sunday 24 January. “I think someone has just walked over it or kicked them all over. It’s very sad to see it. We always used to stop there and have a look for new ones,” she wrote on Facebook. The reaction from her neighbours was similar. “Absolutely disgusting. The highlight of our walk is our toddler stopping to look and admire the spoons,” one local woman said. “That’s so disappointing. My kids had spoons in there,” another woman added. Pakenham Hills Ward councillor Jack Kowarzik said the news was “really frustrating”. “Spoonville was created by locals for the enjoyment of local children and to see it vandalised is disappointing,” he said. Cardinia Art Society president Jillian Ronald described Spoonville as an “amazing initiative” during Melbourne’s lengthy lockdown. “It’s given joy and positivity in some very dark times and I just think it’s really disappointing that, when the community put together a project to support each other during a difficult time, that someone would take the trouble to destroy it. They’d be better off going home to create a spoon and putting it with
In happier times - Maci, Willow and Aubrey at a Pakenham Spoonville site. 214450 the rest,” she said. “I’d suggest there’s much better things they could do with their time.” The ‘Spoonville’ trend was born out of Winnersh, England, in an attempt to improve mental health by simply making people happy as they were out and about during daily exercise. The quirky saga soon made its way to Cardinia - after Australia’s first ever site was constructed up the highway in Longwarry. Within weeks, the site had spread to Pakenham, Officer, Garfield, Nar Nar Goon, Emerald and Beaconsfield.
Ms Ronald acknowledged the Spoonville craze had now hit a dead end. “They’re getting a little bit tired, so maybe it’s time for the spoons to come home,” she said. Ms Ronald, who commissioned the two local sites at Lakeside in Pakenham, encouraged community members to collect their spoons from their local sites. She added that in mid-February she’d look to clean up all remaining Spoonville’s and relocate any leftover spoons to an “undisclosed location”.
The once popular Spoonville trend appears to have hit a dead end. Picture: FACEBOOK
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The young family’s front yard is a Christmas delight and well worth a visit in the early evening!
You can’t miss the family’s home if you tried! power it all!“ he laughed. Despite what you might think, Martin said that it doesn’t actually take much electricity to power their luminous set-up, and instead was “about the same as running a big fridge“ because all the lights are LED. Martin said that after all the lockdowns and hard times this year, he, Kelly and their three year old son hoped their cheery display would help brighten up people’s days. The family’s lights are switched on at 8.30pm each night (until Christmas) with the best time to view them about 9pm. If you’re looking for some more impressive festive displays in the area, a nifty list has been compiled by Melbourne Playgrounds, head to melbourneplaygrounds.com.au/christmaslights-outer-east-melbourne to see what’s happening in your neighbourhood!
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Martin said his young son’s favourite part of the display was the sleigh he built by hand.
Are you holding a
KINDNESS IS KEY - LOCAL FAVOURITE - BE KIND COMMUNITY - KINDNESS IS KEY - LOCAL FAVOURITE - BE KIND COMMUNITY - KINDNESS IS KEY
The festive season is a special time of year full of joy and excitement and in recent weeks, the streets of Pakenham have slowly been lighting up with Christmas cheer. You may have stumbled upon some pretty impressive Christmas displays already, but one local family has pulled out all the stops this year, illuminating their home with tens of thousands of twinkling lights in an effort to make Christmas a magical occasion for everyone - all while raising money for a good cause. Martin and Kelly (both keen Christmas enthusiasts) love decorating their Kristina Court home each year for the festive season - but the young couple decided to take it up a notch this time around. “We’ve been putting up Christmas displays for about five years or so, but this is our third year since moving to Kristina Court,“ Martin said. “Last year we had about 50,000 lights, but this year we’ve almost doubled that, so I would guess there’s anywhere from 60,000 to 100,000 lights up right now. “And across the road is very similar, they have a slightly different set up to us - but between us we both have a lot of lights!“ he laughed. “We just love doing it and thought why not do it for charity to raise money at the same time?“ For the past few years, Martin and Kelly have used their spectacular light display to raise awareness and funds for different children’s charities, and this year they chose to support Camp Quality - a charity that provides support to children living with cancer and their families. “Previously we’ve supported Variety and Make-a-Wish and this year we chose Camp Quality - so we’ve got a big sign out the front with a fundraising tin and some banners where people can leave a little donation if they want,“ Martin explained. “We don’t force people to donate, it’s just there if they want to, but every cent helps and we hope to raise as much as we can for the charity.“ Martin said the planning and installation of their intricate light display took about a month in total to complete - but it was well worth it to see the delight that it spread throughout the local community. “It does take a while. “Kelly usually draws up the map of what she wants and then I have to figure out how I’m going to make it all work in real life, but we usually start with the top and work our way down. “I try and put all the plugs in logical spots so that I can find spots for the transformers to
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Martin and Kelly have gone above and beyond with their lighting display this year. Pictures: SUPPLIED, MELBOURNE PLAYGROUNDS
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STAR NEWS 9
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Claire explores the Dandenong Christmas Tree Farm on Friday 3 December. 259525
Olivia and Blake celebrate a successful tree chopping. 259525
Trees of splendid beauty By Shelby Brooks A tree with no gaps, a straight trunk and rounded shape are the characteristics to look for when picking out the perfect Christmas tree. That’s according to the regulars who buy their trees at the Dandenong Christmas Tree Farm. Tracy and Mirek have been bringing their children Mel and Toby to the farm for over 30 years, back when it was still located in Dandenong. Now Mel and Toby bring their own families on one giant Christmas tree selecting annual outing. They even sport matching Santa hats. Dandenong Christmas Tree Farm owner Neil Cranston said sales had been up from previous years, with weekends the prime time for families to come. “It’s like a switch. Everyone is busy,“ he said. “I think it’s been busy because of Covid and lockdown, people are looking for somewhere to go out. It’s not just about getting a tree, it’s about being outdoors and wandering around the farm. “You can taste the atmosphere.“
Lindsey with Imogen from Upper Beaconsfield enjoy feeling and smelling the trees. 259525
Mel, Evie, Chris, Tracy, Mirek, Crystal, Fox, Holly and Toby on their annual tree hunt. 259525
Melody points at a tree she likes the look of. 259525 10 STAR NEWS
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Thursday, 9 December, 2021
Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS
Brody wraps a tree to protect in on the ride home. 259525 pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
BUSINESS IN FOCUS
The Arthurs Seat Eagle is a one of a kind experience right on Melbourne’s doorstep.
Pictures: SUPPLIED
Reaching for the skies Catching a gondola in the middle of the Mornington Peninsula may seem like a difficult task but Arthurs Seat Eagle gives the experience a whole new meaning. Rather than being on the water, the gondola chair lift is suspended high above the ocean, giving spectacular views out across the bay. “The Arthurs Seat Eagle offers a one of a kind experience - soaring high above Arthurs Seat State Park in our state-of-the-art gondolas, 314 metres above sea level. The stunning views from the gondolas extend across Port Phillip Bay to Melbourne CBD and beyond,” Arthurs Seat Eagle CEO, Matt Mulkearns said. Since 2016 the Eagle has been operating,
constantly changing things up to give customers a new experience each time they visit. The team have introduced in-gondola dining and the cafe menu is seasonally updated but it is the newly renovated retail store that has been an integral part of The Base, to help display the wonderful local produce the peninsula has to offer. “Our newly revamped retail store stocks products from the Mornington Peninsula - our emphasis has been on showcasing and supporting local producers, artisans, and businesses that give back to the community,” Mr Mulkearns said. But it’s not just the things the eye can see
that makes this the one of a kind tourist destination that it is. “We have a relentless drive to deliver safety excellence and use only state-of-the-art equipment and products - this has translated well in the era of Covid, as the implementation of an advanced TGA certified, instant contact surface disinfectant has given us a superior level of Covid protection and a leading technological edge in our industry.” The fully inclusive and accessible gondolas, designed in Switzerland, cater for all ages and abilities, allowing everyone to witness the bluest of blue waters in Melbourne’s beach side suburbs.
With discounts now on offer, there’s no better time to book this premium Victorian tourism attraction, the only one like it in the state. “We have just introduced a new Eagle Family Ticket to make the Eagle more affordable and cost efficient for families. An online ticket discount has also been introduced to provide better value and an incentive to those who book online.” Open every day except Christmas Day from 10am to 5pm at 795 Arthurs Seat Road, Arthurs Seat. Visit www.aseagle.com.au to book tickets or contact the Arthurs Seat Eagle team at info@aseagle.com.au or on (03) 5987 0600.
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Thursday, 9 December, 2021
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STAR NEWS 11
NEWS
Recognising CFA support International Volunteer Day recognises selfless volunteers all over the world for the valuable contribution they make to their communities. The day gives CFA the opportunity to thank every single one of its volunteer members across the state for their efforts, sacrifices and hard work in protecting lives and property. This year, International Volunteer Day’s theme was ’together we are unstoppable’, acknowledging that wherever and whenever there is a crisis, volunteers are ready to support those affected. CFA has a strong volunteer membership of about 54,000 people, including Cranbourne Fire Brigade secretary treasurer Christine Henderson. Ms Henderson joined the CFA at the young age of 17 after witnessing the 1997 Dandenong bushfires. “I wished I could help in some way and that was my motivation to join,“ she said. “It’s a way of giving back to your community and supporting them through major events.“ Since joining the brigade, Ms Henderson has worked her way up the ranks. “It’s definitely changed me, I was very quiet and shy, particularly as a young girl,“ she said. “For the some of the tasks you have to do you have to communicate clearly, which helped break me out of my shell.“ There are about 50 operational and non operational volunteers working at Cranbourne CFA, who become like a second family. “In the CFA, you’re not just colleagues, you become friends,“ Ms Henderson said. “You’re put into intense situations where
you build that level of trust.“ Ms Henderson said it was not just the CFA who deserve to be recognised, with many organisations such as the SES, Red Cross and Wildlife Victoria helping those in need. CFA acting chief officer Garry Cook encouraged everyone to thank Victoria’s committed volunteer workforce for the vital work they do. “I am incredibly proud of our CFA volunteers and want to applaud them for their commitment to their communities, whether responding to bushfires, structure fires, storms, road crashes, HAZMAT incidents, rescues or other emergencies,“ Mr Cook said. “Our volunteers are skilled, trained and ready to respond across our state, every day of the year. “I want to thank all of our members – and their families – for selflessly giving their time to serve their communities.” Mr Cook said highly trained volunteers have continued delivering prevention, preparedness and response activities across Victoria throughout the second year of the Covid-19 pandemic, which also brought severe storms and other challenges. International Volunteer Day was held on 5 December.
Cranbourne Fire Brigade secretary treasurer Christine Henderson at a Good Friday Appeal fundraiser in 2015.
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Covid mental health crisis
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FOCUS ON … DISABILITY WEEK
Providing a new outlook Outlook celebrates people with disabilities every day. The work they do is driven by their vision of creating and supporting inclusive communities where people with disability can live, work, play and participate fully in community life. With a strong history and presence of over 50 years, they strive for everyone’s full and equal participation in all aspects of society. This year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities theme is Building Back Better: toward a disability-inclusive, accessible and sustainable post Covid-19 World, and that is exactly what they have been doing at Outlook. General manager community services Gabriella Browne, said, “During lockdown, the disability services team re-designed our centre-based and community-based programs and now, more than ever, Outlook has a range of programs and activities to suit all abilities. Of course, we’ve kept the favourite activities Outlook customers have always enjoyed. “Whether people with disability in our community are looking for further education, employment, social interactions or just plain fun, there’s something for everyone at Outlook. We’ve also introduced enhancements to our supported employment services and we have new sustainable long-term work opportunities for school leavers. The new programs have had tremendous uptake and response.“ “We are looking forward to rolling out a range of new and exciting initiatives in 2021 including recreation and leisure activities”, Elaine De Vos, disability services manager said. Outlook invites the community to get in touch and speak to their knowledgeable and friendly team to work out a path that is the perfect fit for a rewarding and inclusive community experience.
Outlook clients gather for a meal. 260580
‘Outlook provides me with a 1:1 mentor who helps me work through my stuff.’
Using proper language By Elle Cecil As our society progresses into a more inclusive and welcoming environment, it is important that we make a conscious effort to ensure the language we use towards others is appropriate. Rather than relating to concepts such as profanities, this is in reference to the way we address or describe people with disabilities. Like fashion crazes, music styles and interior design trends, language tends to change and update with time. New words and phrases are introduced into our vocabularies to reflect the times we live in. Terms like ‘handicapped,’ ‘physically challenged’ and ‘wheelchair-bound’ are heading away from being the accepted way to refer to people who have a disability, while the use of phrases like ‘suffering from’ or ‘afflicted with’ are generally deemed offensive in today’s language. Avoid the use of words and phrases such as crippled, a victim of, unfortunate, suffering from, incapacitated or worse, words that have evolved from historically medical terms to become hurtful slurs. Using the word ‘normal’ is also, depending on context, one that should generally be avoided when referring to people with a disability. Using proper terminology is empowering, while outdated terminology is hurtful and offensive. Instead of defining someone by an impairment or disability they may have, try to first recognise that they are a person above all else. They are not disabled, they have a
disability - in the same way that someone is not brown hair, but rather they have brown hair. Instead of saying ‘a blind person’ or ‘a quadriplegic’, perhaps consider rephrasing to ‘a person who is blind or has a vision impairment, or ‘a person that has quadriplegia.’ Similarly, this concept also applies to medical conditions such as asthma and cancer - instead of ‘she suffers from asthma,’ instead use ‘she has asthma.’ Rather than ‘a cancer patient,’ use ‘a person with cancer.’ It is in this way that we are not defining someone by any disability that they may have, but rather recognising that it is simply a feature of who they are. One of the best ways to address or refer to people with a disability is to start with ‘a person,’ as you are affirming their humanity first and foremost. You can then go on to say ‘...that uses a wheelchair,’ ‘...with a hearing impairment,’ or whatever their disability may be. Language and terminology will continually evolve, as do all other aspects of our society, and is something that we all have a duty to remain aware of. It is important to take note of the terms that the person with the disability uses to describe or refer to themselves, and then use those terms accordingly. It all comes down to each person’s own preference and we should respect everyone’s preferred way of self-identification.
Demi
‘Outlook helps me keep on top of funding and speak to my manager. This part time job is a start. I plan to become a teacher’s aid. I want to help kids out.’ Travis
Your personal goals are just as important as your NDIS goals During the week we celebrate International Day of People with Disability, let Outlook team up with you to find your spark and talk to us about how we can support you to reach your personal goals. At Outlook, we focus on you. Because your life is unique, we take the time to get to know you and explore all the possibilities that will spark your passion. Our well-established, progressive organisation provides customers with a wide range of options to build their confidence and ability to be active members of their community. Outlook’s valuable outcomes include connection to community, employment and volunteering, friendships, recreation activities, good health, and wellbeing and life skills.
Call Elaine today on 0429 170 108 and find your spark!
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FOCUS ON … REAL ESTATE
EMBRACE YOUR RETIREMENT LIKE NO OTHER PURSUIT IF you haven’t investigated Aviva Communities Officer then now is the time to secure a Stage 2 property at Stage 1 prices, beating the New year price rise. Aviva Communities Officer challenges the status quo and provides a superior over 55’s gated & secure living community. There is a new generation of Australians who are not retiring from life, they’re looking for a new way to live. Aviva Communities Officer delivers very affordable 5-star resort style living and a welcoming and friendly community of people that you will want to get to know and spend time with. Our architecturally designed homes all have thoughtful inclusions at every turn, and these are not additional extras. We want our homeowners to love every aspect of their homes which have been purpose built to provide 6-star energy rating, so your energy costs are lower, and you are kept warm in winter & cool in summer.
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Classic Kah claims cup By David Nagel Champion jockey Jamie Kah has returned to the winner’s enclosure for the first time in more than three months after a brilliant victory aboard the Ciaron Maher/David Eustacetrained Smokin’ Romans in the Listed $300,000 Pakenham Cup (2500m). Kah had a smile from ear-to-ear after giving the five-year-old gelding a dream run in the cup, run in front of an enthusiastic crowd for the first time since 2019. Smokin’ Romans was never threatened in the straight, holding off the local challenge of the Phillip Stokes-trained Good Idea to win by two lengths on the line, with the Matt Cumanitrained Team Captain two lengths further back in third. Kah was ecstatic after riding her first winner since piloting the Peter Moody-trained Invincible Caviar to victory at Sale on August 22. Kah has recently returned to the track after being suspended for attending an illegal gathering during Victoria’s Covid-19 lockdown. “It’s amazing, I’ve missed it greatly, I love the horses and that’s why I do it, and to come back on a day like today, with the crowds here, and get a win like that it’s very rewarding,” Kah said after the race. “I’m just really happy to be back.” Smokin’ Romans has had an incredible campaign, with his Pakenham Cup win his 14th start in 2021, with nothing more than a five-week freshen up between runs. “They’re amazing horses, and this horse is just the same, it makes you really give credit to Dave (Eustace) and Ciaron (Maher), they have had this horse up for so long and I’ve never seen him look this good,” Kah said. “I knew I had a fit horse underneath me, so if I needed to go if I got challenged, I could, but I wanted to give him the easiest ride I could early. “He does it all himself this horse, he can feel them coming and he quickens up when they get to him. “He was just amazing out there today. It made my job easy.” Kah said she felt like she had the race in her keeping a long way from home. “He’s a really lovely stayer, he’s push-button out there, they put the blinkers on, just a little bit of a gear change, and he was really keen on the turn,” Kah said. “I had to let him go because I had so much horse underneath me. He’s come through his
She’s back! Jamie Kah gives a winning salute as Smokin’ Romans cruises to victory in the Pakenham Cup. 260893 Pictures: BRETT HOLBURT/RACING PHOTOS grades perfectly and well done to the team and the owners, it was a great win for them today.” Eustace was equally impressed with one of his stable favourites. “He is an absolute legend, he’s been in work over a year and he just keeps turning up, he loves his racing and he’s just getting better and better,” Eustace said. “He’s a funny horse, he’s always had his quirks, but he was really good today and probably the best he’s been. He’s just growing up, he’s just a popular winner and a real favourite at the stable.” Eustace said Smokin’ Romans was thoroughly deserving of victory after a close-up second in the Group-3 Bendigo Cup. “He was a little bit stiff in the Bendigo Cup, we just put the blinkers on today and he got in a lovely spot,” he said. “Jamie did what she does, she rode him as he jumped, and he jumped well, and she just let him stride and got him in a beautiful rhythm and it’s great to have her back…she’s a star of the sport and she showed why today. “She’s just a very naturally gifted rider, it’s a rare thing, she’s got it, the horses run for her
Champion jockey Jamie Kah celebrates with locals after winning the 2021 Pakenham Cup aboard Smokin’ Romans. 260893 and that horse stretched very well for her today. “She took the initiative, it wasn’t necessarily
the plan to be so forward, but he jumped well and she went on with it. “It’s good to have her back.”
Christmas Cup meeting brings joy to Speedway fans By Dean Thompson The night before Bathurst, Saturday the 4 December, saw a healthy gathering of Speedway fans at Nyora reserve to enjoy plenty of speedway action. Fans were treated to eight classes with spins, bingles and victories all part of the night’s entertainment. Nyora, on a regular basis, has the Speedway Sedans Australia Junior class on their programs and the Top Star Juniors and New Star Juniors both competed for Christmas Cup recognition. Dylan Barrow defeated Kiarna Barton from Bittern and Jess O’Donnell from the Cranbourne area in the Top Star class after Barrow won two of the three qualifying races and Barton the other. The New Star Juniors was won by Nathan Miles from Catani with Harry Cecil, in a Miles family-owned race car, second and Bryce Leek in third. Standard Saloon Junior action, with children aged 10 to 17 competing in six-cylinder race cars, finished with the state champion Damon Ingram from Warragul taking victory in front of Owen Cecil and Harry Cecil in his own team’s race car. Hunter Carey finished in fourth and Chase Ingram fifth. Street Stocks were a late addition to the night’s race schedule and a handful of cars made it to Nyora. 18 STAR NEWS
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Thursday, 9 December, 2021
Catani junior sedan racer Nathan Miles won New Star Junior Sedans.
Warragul racer Ray Gould won the Sports Sedans. 261026 Brodie Ardley from the Mornington Peninsula, driving his father’s race car, was on debut in Street Stocks and went on to the win the final ahead of Shane Roycroft and Matthew Brooks both visiting from the Goulburn Valley. Bec Glassborow returned to racing af-
Pictures: NAPIER PHOTOGRAPHY
ter becoming a mum. Glassborow from the Cranbourne area won two of the three heat races and Kate Stuchbery the other. Danielle Solly finished second to Glassborow with Maddison Miles in third spot. Division 2 Hot Rods were another class
that became a late addition to the program and Trent Wilson from East Gippsland took the victory ahead of Troy Hutchison, Bobby Devine, Leigh Mitchell, and Ben Crittenden. Warragul’s Ray Gould, 71, a legend of the Nyora club, won the Sports Sedans in front of Felicity Roycroft, Jack Van Bremen, Troy Glassborow - brother of Ladies winner Bec and Chris Aarts. Rounding out all the results, Mitch Foster from the Latrobe Valley won the Standard Saloon class in front of a couple of young guns, Kacey Ingram, and Rhys Lansdown from Kooweerup. Matt Davis finished in fourth and Garry Charles in fifth place in his HQ Holden. Nyora returns with more Speedway after Christmas on January 8. The event will feature the Victorian Compact Speedcar title. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
SPORT
Lions brave in the battle By Tyler Lewis and Dave Nagel Kooweerup (5/123) is ready to take on the challenge of bringing down reigning premier Cardinia this weekend after the Demons put paid to a heavily-undermanned Pakenham (8/122) at Denhams Road on Saturday. Either through injury or unavailability the Lions were without four of their key pillars, with skipper Dale Tormey, in-form batter Chris Smith, and all-rounders Troy McDermott and Jason Williams all missing from the side that pushed Tooradin to the limit at Westernport Oval last week. With due respect to the youngsters that Pakenham brought into its side – this one had a tinge of mission impossible about it, considering the plethora of talent that the Demons have at their disposal. But that didn’t stop Pakenham openers – Jack Anning (17) and Rob Elston (32) – from doing a great job against the new ball, putting together a 37-run stand before Anning was trapped in front, being the first of two wickets to fall to Jess Mathers (2/40 off 8). Elston, Steve Insall (16) and Sean Gramc (17) then kept the Demons at bay, before the likes of Matt Bright (3/15 off 8) and Luke McMaster (1/22 off 8) put a halt to things through the middle overs of the innings. While overcoming the under-manned Lions, Demons skipper Chris Bright never doubted his opposition. “I told the boys at the start of the game that even though they had four of their top-six players out, you can’t ever write off Pakenham, they’re a great club,” Bright said. “I’ve got a lot of respect for the way Pakenham went about it on Saturday.” He also praised the efforts of Matt Davey (43 not out) – a superstar of the competition and driving force behind the Demons remarkable run of success over the years. “He turns 46 on Sunday and is like a fine red wine…he keeps getting better with age,” Bright said “It was probably only four or five years ago that he told me he was only just starting to learn how to bat, about what it takes to build an innings…he’s just been phenomenal for this club for a very long time.” Officer’s excellent start to the season continued with a ripping win at Glover Reserve
Cooper Pursell steams in 260744 against the highly fancied Devon Meadows. The Bullants were set a steep chase after the Panthers racked up 6/220 from their 40 overs, with Kyle Salerno (68) and Trent Delaney (52) setting up the imposing total. Callum Cavanagh (45 from 34 balls) also whacked some big sixes late to help the cause. Despite falling to 4/67 with some of the dangerous Bullant top order batters back in the pavilion, a clutch half-century from Sam McDavitt (56) and a match-winning 70-run stand between Cooper Pursell (44 not out) and Jonty Bennie (30 not out) guided the visitors home with three wickets and eight balls left. After four rounds, the Bullants remain the only undefeated side in the District competition, with Upper Beaconsfield, Devon Meadows and Emerald making up the positions in the top-four
Jonty Bennie sends one down 260744
Pictures: STEW CHAMBERS
WGCA Ladders
It hasn’t been the start the Lions had hoped for, but they remain respected by opponents. 259766
TEAM PREMIER Koo Wee Rup Cardinia Tooradin Clyde Cranbourne Meadows Pakenham Carlisle Park Vikings CC Merinda Park DISTRICT Officer Upper Beaconsfield Devon Meadows Emerald Pakenham Upper Toomuc Lang Lang
P
W
L
%
3 3 3 2 1 0 0 0
0 0 0 1 2 3 3 3
42 42 42 30 18 6 6 6
2.8622 1.8939 1.8304 0.9531 0.6763 1.0916 0.5922 0.1623
3 2 1 1 1 1
0 1 2 2 2 2
42 30 18 18 18 18
1.2582 1.4977 1.2533 0.8184 0.787 0.63
Injury setback to Incentivise Flyers...business as usual By David Nagel
He was one of the stars of the spring racing carnival but the immediate future of Caulfield Cup winner Incentivise is in serious doubt after scans revealed damage to his front suspensory ligaments. Trained by Peter Moody at Pakenham, Incentivise is currently spelling in Queensland under the watchful eye of his breeder, partowner, and former trainer Steve Tregea. Incentivise pulled up lame after running a gallant second to Verry Elleegant in this year’s Melbourne Cup, but was cleared of any longterm injuries and appeared destined for a bright future. But recent scans in Queensland have revealed the significance of the suspensory liga-
ment damage and further stress on the cannon bone. Incentivise will have further scans in February before a decision is made on his future racing career. Incentivise was one of the revelations of Australian racing in 2021, progressing from a maiden victory in country Queensland to win three Group 1’s in Melbourne …including the Caulfield Cup. Incentivise gave Moody - the former trainer of champion mare Black Caviar – his first win in one of the grand slam races of the Australian turf…the Melbourne Cup, Caulfield Cup, Cox Plate and Golden Slipper. Incentivise is the early favourite for the first three of those races in 2022.
Caulfield Cup winner Incentivise is set for a lengthy spell from the track. 261220 Picture: GEORGE SAL/RACING PHOTOS pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
By Tyler Lewis The Southside Flyers lifted-off in the season opener on Saturday night, crushing the Bendigo Spirit. The Spirit – a side that was unable to win a game last summer – showed good intent, pushing the Flyers at times in the home sides’ 94-81 victory. It was a second period onslaught that defined that match, with the Flyers outscoring the Spirit 25-11 in the second. Flyers superstars Rebecca Cole (24 points, four assists) and Sara Blicavs (27 points, 11 rebounds) were once again prominent figures on the court, especially in the second period, where Blicavs scored majority of her points, both inside the paint and from deep. Abby Bishop (20 points, four assists and 11 rebounds) was also impressive with a double-double. In her first match against her old side, Leilani Mitchell collected five points and seven rebounds in her new Spirit threads. Mitchell is among several players based in the south east to be named in the Opals FIBA Women’s sqaud for the 2022 World Cup. The Southside Flyers will take on the purple and gold of the Melbourne Boomers this Saturday, before hosting the Boomers once again the following week. The Opals squad: REBECCA ALLEN ZITINA AOKUSO SARA BLICAVS REBECCA COLE
· · · ·
Sara Blicavs has been instrumental for a long time in Aussie basketball, she will don the green and gold again in 2022. 261216 Picture: COURTESY AAP MEDIA
· KEELY FROLING · DARCEE GARBIN · CAYLA GEORGE · SHYLA HEAL · TESSA LAVEY · EZIYODA MAGBEGOR · TESS MADGEN · JADE MELBOURNE · LEILANI MITCHELL · LAUREN NICHOLSON · JENNA O’HEA · MADDISON ROCCI · LAUREN SCHERF · ALEX SHARP · ALANNA SMITH · STEPHANIE TALBOT · MARIANNA TOLO · KRISTY WALLACE · ABBEY WEHRUNG · SAMI WHITCOMB Thursday, 9 December, 2021
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STAR NEWS 19
St Clare’s Catholic Primary School Officer
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Thursday, 9 December, 2021
St Clare’s Primary School Officer 95 Majestic Drive (PO Box 362) Officer 3809 Phone 03 5940 6777 Email enrolments@stclaresofficer.catholic.edu.au pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au