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Thursday, 20 January, 2022

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Kids line up for vax

Big summer read

Thrills and spills at Drouin Speedway

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SPORT

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Sikhs deliver again

Sorely missed By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

missed by the community.” Ms Stapledon’s passion for disability support preceded her council terms between 2008-’20, including two stints as mayor. She co-founded Casey Kidz Club – an afterschool care program for disabled teenagers - and highlighted the lack of funding support. Among her major legacies were two 75-kilometre Mayors Walks for Disability – in which she spread the word on service gaps for people with disabilities and their carers. The initial feat led to her being crowned the Star News Person of the Year 2013. Ms Stapledon was also a past president of Disability Capability and had held positions on the Blairlogie Living and Learning Board,

the Casey Cardinia and ACE (Aiding Casey Education) foundations and Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre. She was patron of the Cranbourne Football Club All Abilities Team and the YMCA Open Doors Program. For many years, she hosted Women of Today on Casey Radio 97.7FM and penned a regular column for Star News Group. She made two unsuccessful tilts at state politics – as an independent in 2010 and a Liberal candidate in 2014. For crisis support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au or beyond blue on 1300 22 4636 or beyondblue.org.au Read more on page 17

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Nevaeh (6) with Mayor Cr Amanda Stapledon in the very safe outdoor walled playground. 193854

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.

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Former Casey mayor Amanda Stapledon was widely admired for her community work. 194479

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Shocked friends and colleagues have hailed former City of Casey mayor Amanda Stapledon for her “incredible” and “tireless” community work. The 58-year-old former councillor – who had been rocked by an IBAC inquiry into Casey councillors - was found dead in a car in Stringybark Drive about 12.30pm on Tuesday 18 January. Her death is not being treated as suspicious, Victoria Police stated. Ms Stapledon was widely admired as a strong, unstinting community voice, especially for disability and carer issues. Many also paid tribute to her as a devoted sole carer for her family over decades. She leaves behind a frail father who she visited daily in aged care and Pete - her adult son who has multiple disabilities. Blairlogie chief executive Carolyn Carr said Ms Stapledon was “one of the most incredible community leaders I’ve ever met”. Her staff reacted with “gasps” and “broke down” at the tragic news. “She’s been an incredible support for not only our organisation but for people with disabilities in general. And more than that, for carers with people with disabilities. “She worked tirelessly to raise awareness about how carers and people with disabilities have to live with such a lack of access to services. “She did all that while being the mum to Pete and Pete was her world. She always put him first and I don’t know how she did it all.” Ms Stapledon fought for proper support for carers so they could be part of the workforce, Ms Carr said. “She’s been fighting for that since Pete was a baby. He’s now 28, and she’s been carrying that banner for such a long time. “The sad thing is, we’re not going to have another voice like Amanda. She’ll be hugely

Protect your child with the coronavirus vaccine for 5-11 year olds Throughout the pandemic, our kids have given up a lot to help keep their families, schools and friends safe. And with children eligible for vaccination from January 10, now it’s their turn to feel safe. The coronavirus vaccine for kids 5 - 11 will keep them protected from serious illness and will get you off to a safe start to the school year.

To find out where and how to book visit coronavirus.vic.gov.au

Know the how what & when of vaccination for 5-11 year olds Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne 12531023-JC03-22

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Thursday, 20 January, 2022

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NEWS

Sikh Volunteers Australia in action By Jamie Salter With the surge in positive Covid-19 cases, Sikh Volunteers Australia are back to delivering meals to those in isolation. Volunteers resumed deliveries on Sunday 16 January, bringing freshly prepared vegetarian meals to individuals and families who have tested Covid-19 positive or are living with someone who has tested positive. The meals will be delivered four days a week, on Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday. SVA co-owner Jaswinder Singh said he was proud to support his community at this difficult time. “This is what the community expects from

our organisation and we are grateful to have this responsibility,” Mr Singh said. “We don’t not have as many resources, so only people who have tested positive or are living with a positive case should call to request a meal.” SVA has produced a roster of 30 volunteers to work every day the service runs. “We are not at full capacity but we are trying our best,” Mr Singh said. “Will keep on going as long as demand is there.” The charity had originally secured land in Cranbourne West in July 2021 to build a professional cooking facility, however, building permit issues delayed construction. The crew realised in order to serve commu-

nity members requesting assistance, it would need a new kitchen and recently purchased a property at 1565a Dandenong Hastings Road, Langwarrin that will be settled in four months. In the meantime, the current owners have rented out the Langwarrin kitchen facility until settlement. SVA services Casey, Dandenong and Frankston City Councils. Those in need of meals have been asked to text SVA on 0452 401 734 and to provide their name and address. Orders must be placed one day in advance, by 7pm. The organisation has requested community support through either food or monetary donations.

SVA co-owner Jaswinder Singh said meals are being delivered to people who have tested Covid-19 positive.

IN BRIEF

Act of road rage caught on camera

Workplace tragedy A 44-year-old man from Kooweerup has died following a workplace accident in Dandenong South on the morning of Monday 17 January. Emergency services were called to a Fowler Road business just after 6.45am following reports a man had been crushed by a shipping container. The man, who died at the scene, is yet to be identified. Police will prepare a report for the Coroner. In a statement, WorkSafe said they were investigating the incident. “It is understood a component of the forklift failed as the shipping container was being lifted at about 6:07am, causing the container to fall back onto the driver’s cabin,” the statement reads. “The death is the second workplace fatality for 2022, two more than at the same time last year.”

A TikTok video of an alleged road rage incident in Pakenham has gone viral. The video, posted by user @lozzalabassa, depicts passengers from a ute approaching a blue sedan car and aggressively slamming the door on the person inside. Angry gesturing can also be seen. It is believed the video was taken around 5.30pm Friday 14 January on the corner of O’Brien Parade and the Princes Highway.

Teen charged in Pakenham stabbing A 13-year-old boy has been arrested following a stabbing in Pakenham. Police said the incident occurred outside a fast-food outlet on the Princes Highway around 9:30pm on Monday night, 10 January. The 18-year-old victim from Coronet Bay was taken to The Alfred hospital with non-lifethreatening injuries. Detectives from Cardinia Crime Investigation Unit charged a Pakenham teenager with intentionally cause serious injury and other assault, and weapons charges. He was bailed to attend a Children’s Court at a later date.

Unlicensed driver charged A Pakenham man was charged with multiple offences after allegedly attempting to flee the scene of a collision on Wednesday 12 January. Thee 18-year-old was charged with theft from motor vehicle, handle stolen goods, unlicensed driving, use an unregistered motor vehicle and refuse a preliminary breath test after a blue Ford Falcon bearing stolen number plates crashed on Oakwood Avenue. Officers from Dandenong police station arrested the unlicensed driver in Dandenong North around 10pm on Wednesday night. He was bailed to appear at the Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on 14 June.

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Thursday, 20 January, 2022

STAR NEWS 3

THE LOWDOWN Q&A

with Narre Warren SES unit member Tracey Hayward

Tell us a fun fact about yourself! A very long time ago, a friend asked if I wanted to go up in a plane. Little did I know he would do acrobatics over Melbourne city – such an awesome experience being upside down in a plane over Melbourne. Why did you become a volunteer? I love being active and I’ve always wanted to help people, so one day, when I was looking up interesting volunteer opportunities, I came across this organisation called the SES. To be honest I had no idea who the SES were (I hadn’t lived in Australia for nearly two decades). But after reading about them and then going to the information night at Narre Warren I was hooked. The people were amazing and made me feel at home straight away. What is your experience with the SES? I’ve been a member for nearly four years and during that time I’ve learnt so many skills. Who would have thought I would know how to use a chainsaw, drive our storm truck, or manage staging areas. When I tell friends back in London what I’m now doing they’re in disbelief, but, of course, very proud. I’m currently a deputy controller for members and a crew leader. What do you love about what you do? What don’t I love about what I do! I love that I’m learning so many new and diverse skills and meeting such amazing and like-minded people – not only within the SES but within the community. What are you most passionate about? Anyone who knows me well would attest to the fact that I’m passionate about animals. My retirement dream is to have a little hobby farm for older animals who just want a quiet, peaceful life. Who is the best person you’ve worked with? The best person I’ve worked with is Aaron

Narre Warren SES unit member Tracey Hayward. Picture: SUPPLIED Heathcote. When I joined, he was a volunteer who was returning after some time away. His patience in helping me and the other new volunteers during our initial training session was invaluable. I was even lucky enough to have Aaron as my crew leader during my first multi (lots and lots of requests for assistance all at once). I was a little nervous as I wasn’t sure

how I could help, but Aaron’s calmness and experience made me feel like a valued crew member – can’t thank him enough! What is your most memorable moment with the SES? There are so many memorable moments, but one that really stands out is the day we were searching for a young boy who went missing up at Mount Disappointment. It was the third day of the search and we were out in very thick scrub. We were exhausted and fearful, but when we heard over the radio that a young boy’s shoe had been found and then shortly after he had been found – emotions were high – this was the best outcome. I couldn’t have been more proud to be a volunteer with SES that day. What were you like as a kid? A tomboy without question. All I wanted as a kid was an orange tractor – mum tells me that I was beside myself when I received my orange truck from Santa one year (funny when you think that I now drive an orange SES truck). Then I moved on to skateboards and anything that had a slight element of danger. Strange how when you get older that all changes! What was your favourite subject in school? Legal studies – when I was around 15, I thought about joining the police force, then it moved to being a lawyer. Not sure what happened as I did neither. Do you consider yourself an extrovert or an introvert? I would say I’m an introvert masquerading as an extrovert. I’m at my most comfortable sitting at home reading a book or watching an old classic movie like Rebecca or Gone with the Wind. What do you do to relax after a busy day? When I’m not on call, I sit back and have a lovely glass of chilled wine.

THREE … Australians to watch at the Australian Open

NICK KYRGIOS The polarising Australian was at his flamboyant best in his first-round victory over British qualifier Liam Broady on Tuesday night, displaying his full arsenal of underarm serves and ‘tweeners for a raucous crowd at John Cain Arena. He will need to be at his best on Thursday when he faces 2021 Australian Open runnerup and top seed Daniil Medvedev in what shapes as one of the headline matches of the opening week.

SAMANTHA STOSUR The veteran and 2011 US Open winner announced late last year that the Open would be the final singles tournament of her glittering career and came from a set down on Tuesday to win her first round clash and extend her swansong. She faces Russian 10th seed Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova.

ALEX DE MINAUR The top-ranked Australian male in this year’s tournament dropped the opening set against Italian Lorenzo Musetti on Tuesday night before winning 18 of the next 24 service games in a dominant display to take the match in four sets. He could face British veteran and fivetime Australian Open finalist Andy Murray in the fourth round.

Don’t travel to high risk areas on Extreme Fire Danger Rating days. If you plan to travel through Victoria, during fire season, it’s important to check the Fire Danger Rating every day. If the rating is Extreme or above, avoid travelling to high risk areas, including to cities and towns.

Plan. Act. Survive. Go to emergency.vic.gov.au

Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne 12520498-AV03-22

4 STAR NEWS

Thursday, 20 January, 2022

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NEWS

Flooding in King Street, Pakenham.

Deed Drive was hard hit by rain, with a resident recording over 60mm in 20 minutes.

Flooding made it difficult for cars to drive.

Friday flash flood fallout Widespread flash flooding across Pakenham caused building damage to homes and businesses on Friday 14 January. Pakenham SES spokesman Shayne Honey said the unit had 30 calls for assistance in the space of an hour, beginning around 8.30pm.

“Within an hour we had activated our crews because we realised we needed to quickly get on top of the jobs,“ he said. Most of the calls required assistance from flooding in homes either from the ground or through roof damage.

“Were possible, we were able to provide sandbags and assisted with the clean up,” he said. Pakenham SES had to assist with a rescue, in which a family had become trapped in a house with ankle deep water. The people had to be taken from the home

in basket stretchers. Shayne said this time of year was common for severe weather events. “We do normally see flooding in the summer months with summer storms. It’s similar to 11 years ago when Pakenham flooded and was under water for a few days,” he said.

Onlookers shocked as Pakenham business ram-raided The owners of the Pakenham Tobacco Shop woke to a devastating scene on Monday morning after their small business was targeted by thieves in a ram-raid overnight. Crumpled security gates, smashed glass and debris were strewn across the footpath on Main Street on Monday 17 January, after a vehicle ploughed into the business and thieves ransacked the shop in the early hours of the morning. Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Chris O’Brien said the ram-raid occurred about 3.20am on Monday and the culprits had caused “a significant amount of damage” to the store. He said that while the investigation was still ongoing, police believe it may be connected to a number of other similar incidents in the area. “It’s still an unfolding investigation, but it’s possibly linked to a series of other ramraids across the eastern suburbs,” Detective O’Brien said. As the owners began cleaning up the

fun

eve

music

mess, onlookers shared their disappointment and sympathy, with one stating it was a “shocking” attack and the last thing the small business needed right now. The police investigation is underway, and anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a confidential report at crimestoppersvic.com. au

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The ram-raid caused a significant amount of damage to the tobacconist, and a number of items were stolen in the incident. 264937

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The crumpled shop front of the Pakenham Tobacco Shop on Monday morning. 264937 Pictures: GABRIELLA PAYNE

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What's on Cardinia Festival Enjoy a month-long celebration with free pop up events and attractions at venues and locations across Cardinia Shire. Visit the What’s On Cardinia website for festival information.

www.whatsoncardinia.com.au pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

Thursday, 20 January, 2022

STAR NEWS 5

NEWS

OPINION

Triple 0 care

Community action sparks joy

Community members are being reminded to save calls to Triple Zero for emergencies as ambulance services nationwide report significant increases in call volumes for non-emergency related matters. In December 2021, Triple Zero operators answered more than 940,000 calls - 40,000 more calls than the previous year (December 2020), and over 100,000 more calls than the previous month (November 2021). Many of these calls were from people seeking advice or assistance from ambulance services about Covid-19 issues that are of a non-urgent nature and could be handled elsewhere. Federal Minister for Communications Paul Fletcher MP said, as a consequence, the Triple Zero service was experiencing difficulties transferring some calls to ambulance services as its call-takers were occupied dealing with non-emergency calls. “A considerable volume of calls do not require life-saving emergency assistance, and could be directed to other health services for assistance. I urge people to dial Triple Zero only if there is an emergency,” Minister Fletcher said. “Triple Zero is one of our most important services, saving countless lives every year, and it’s critical we keep that service functioning as it should. The assistance and judgement of every Australian to ensure they call only when there is a genuine emergency is critical to that.” Those seeking advice or assistance about Covid-19 symptoms that are not serious should contact healthdirect.gov.au or call the National Coronavirus Helpline on 1800 020 080. Telstra will be updating its Triple Zero Recorded Voice Announcement advising people seeking advice about Covid-19 to contact Health Direct and the National Coronavirus Helpline. For other services providing support on a range of matters, visit australia.gov.au/phonecontacts

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LENSCAPE

Storm clouds rolling over Pakenham on Friday night. 265371

Australia is a nation made up of diverse communities, and as we approach Australia Day 2022, we can reflect on our hardworking and often pragmatic attitude regarding our approach to life. We have always rallied together within our communities during challenging times and celebrated our victories. We move into 2022 with renewed hope and appreciation for what makes us Australian; our sense of community, respect and value for each other.

SOCIALLY SPEAKING Cranbourne North resident David Short raised concerns about the state of his local Merinda Park, taking it upon himself to conduct nightly clean-ups of the area. Here’s what our Facebook readers had to say about it.

Over the years there has been debate about the celebration of Australia Day and its significance within our multicultural community. Our cultural identity has been shaped by our Indigenous people and I am proud of how we can choose to move forward together and continue to be represented by our culturally diverse community in everything we hold important. I look forward to sharing Australia Day with our new citizens who have come from far and wide and chosen to call Australia home.

Thank you for contributing and being part of the Australian identity by sharing your culture with us. I acknowledge the history of our country and how it has been shaped by those who have been before us, by the people who are here now and those who will be there for our future, as we reflect on Australia Day as a nation inspired by many cultures. Brad Battin, Liberal State Member for Gembrook

THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN Thumbs down! To Casey council for closing a road for 11 months to do roadworks. Why not use the current road until the new one is at least mostly complete. It’s on a completely different area of land.

Thumbs down! To the inconsiderate drivers who insist on speeding along unmade roads.

Thumbs down! To the embarrassing unkempt state of our towns parks and gardens.

Thumbs up! To Casey council who have extended the existing one kilometre of virtual fence along Churchill Park Drive from the golf course to Power Road and added another 850m stretch along Hallam North Road. This will help further to protect the kangaroos, reducing the vehicle/kangaroo collisions at night.

Thumbs down! To the porch pirates that stole my parcel that l had been waiting for since the start of December.

Thumbs down! To the Monash Freeway.

Thumbs down! To roadworks EVERYWHERE.

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Picture: JANETTE YOUNG

Australia Day hopes

Jan Gilchrist: I have reported this via the Casey website and got an email saying that they were behind because of winter rain creating longer grass and trees down will be collected by the end of January. I won’t hold my breath waiting for it all to be done. Robert Jamieson: If only we could complain to our local councillors. Barny Rubble: That’s every park in Casey at the moment. Long grass everywhere, storm felled trees, trolleys, dumped Christmas trees. As a resident of 25 years in Casey, this is the worst I’ve seen it. Belinda Burford: My local park was mowed yesterday, yay! No more knee high grass...but the rubbish was not picked up first, just mowed over.

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It’s such a joy to see kids who are inspired to do something to make their local patch a better place for everyone, like nine and seven-yearold Reuben and Eli in your story Environmental warriors: Kids clean up their park (Berwick & Pakenham Officer Star News 13/01/22). Thank you Reuben and Eli for not just noticing the dumped rubbish and walking past, but believing you can be part of the solution, picking it up and disposing of it thoughtfully. It makes me believe the world is in good hands with young people like you and your 10-year-old sister Matilda who has suggested organising a Clean Up Australia Day community event in March. It’s an important message that these children so beautifully illustrate. We can all make our patch a little bit better for people and the planet by just making a start and doing it. As the children’s mum Jackie says, it’s the little things that can make all the difference. It put a smile on my face. Thank you! Sue Tardif

Thumbs down! To those that reverse park into a supermarket car park but then need to use their boot for a trolley full of groceries.

Thumbs up! For my neighbours who all lend each other a helping hand when needed.

NEWS

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Thursday, 20 January, 2022

With tens of thousands of Victorians taking the opportunity to go camping this long weekend, authorities are urging people to play it safe when it comes to using campfires, barbecues and recreational fires. Campfires have already caused 270 bushfires on public land this fire season, which is more than half the fires responded to by Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic) crews. At least 91 of these unattended campfires sparked bushfires over the Christmas and New Year period. Conservation Regulator Authorised Officers have also detected more than 180 unattended campfires during patrols at state forest campsites since the start of November, with 29 infringements and 54 warnings issued. Campers are reminded to be prepared before lighting a campfire, by checking weather conditions and warnings, including Total Fire Bans, on the Vic Emergency website or app. It is also important to bring a bucket and making sure there is enough water to fully extinguish

the campfire whenever it can’t be attended. Chris Hardman Chief Fire Officer for Forest Fire Management Victoria reminded campers to never leave a campfire unattended. “Just one spark from an unattended campfire can have devastating impacts and get out of control. Never leave a campfire unattended, never light one on a Total Fire Ban day and always make sure you have enough water to fully extinguish a campfire before you leave,” he said. In state forests, use a purpose-built fireplace or light a campfire in a trench at least 30cm deep. Branches and logs on a campfire must be less than one metre long. Never leave a campfire unattended and use water, not soil, to completely extinguish the campfire before leaving, even for a short while. All of Victoria, except East Gippsland, is now in Fire Danger Period which means a written permit is required to burn off grass, under-

growth, weeds or other vegetation. Barbeques and fires for cooking and warmth do not require a permit but must be lit in properly constructed fireplaces. Victorians can access a handy Can or Can’t I? guide to activities and restrictions on CFA’s website at cfa.vic.gov.au/can, by calling the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226 or visiting the Fire Permits Victoria website at firepermits.vic.gov.au. On the spot fines of $545 apply to those breaching campfire rules or a maximum penalty of up to $18,174 if the matter is prosecuted in court. The maximum penalty for lighting or maintaining a fire during a Total Fire Ban is $43,617 and/or two years in jail. Unattended campfires should be reported to 136 186 or call 000 to report a bushfire. For more information about rules in state forests, including campfires and vehicle use, visit vic.gov.au/rules-in-state-forests. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Vaccine support on offer The Casey/Cardinia/Dandenong Community Support Group and Komak Community Support Group will each receive $150,000 to support access to vaccinations for South Sudanese and Afghan community members, respectively, across Greater Dandenong, Casey and Cardinia. The Le Mana Pasifika Project will also receive $150,000 to support Pasifika communities to access vaccinations in various locations including Casey and Greater Dandenong. Funding will allow the Community Support Groups to employ bicultural case workers and/or case managers who will work with the local South Sudanese, Afghan and Pasifika communities to resolve hesitancies and barriers to vaccination. Culturally appropriate communications for young people and their communities will also be initiated through engagement with community and religious leaders, as well as pop-up vaccination hubs as required.

The State Government is supporting multicultural communities in the south-east to Picture: UNSPLASH get vaccinated. 264235 The State Government announced successful funding recipients of the $1.2 million allocated to the Supporting Access to Vaccina-

tion for Priority Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Communities program on Monday 17 January. This funding will allow staff to work directly with community members and leaders to provide vaccine information and help get community members vaccinated through helping booking an appointment, arranging childcare or transport to vaccination hubs. Community organisations and neighbourhood houses are also encouraged to apply for up to $20,000 to help vulnerable Victorians overcome barriers to vaccination and tackle vaccine misinformation through the Local Community Access Grants Program. The initiatives are part of a $21 million package to boost tailored support for Victorians who may face additional barriers to vaccination, including people living with disability, at-risk youth, seniors, culturally diverse and multifaith communities, social housing residents and victim survivors of family violence.

The seven Community Support Groups and the Le Mana Pasifika Project run on a placebased and community-led model. Each is auspiced by an organisation possessing strong and established links to the communities they work with, ensuring tailored operational support is provided. The Centre for Multicultural Youth is the auspice organisation for the Casey/Cardinia/ Dandenong Community Support Group and Le Mana Pasifika Project, while Uniting (Victoria and Tasmania) is the equivalent organisation for the Komak Community Support Group. Community Support Groups were established by the state government from 2016 to strengthen youth engagement in multicultural communities and to ensure that young people and their families are linked into activities and services in their areas. For more information, visit vic.gov.au/local-community-access-grants-program.

Code Brown declared for Victoria’s healthcare system Victoria’s health system is entering a ’Code Brown’ as the state grapples with the Omicron outbreak. All public metropolitan and major regional hospitals have activated the formal emergency management structure which aims to provide relief and support to struggling services. The Department of Health called the coordinated Pandemic Code Brown following support requests from the health services for further assistance. Acting Minister for Health James Merlino said this was the best way to ensure hospitals can safely care for those who need it most.

“Our health services will have to make some hard decisions over the next few weeks to manage increasing demand and I thank every single one of them for making the tough calls necessary to help as many Victorians as they can,“ he said. The changes health services can implement include configuring services to free up more staff, including the delivery of outpatient services outside the hospital and the rapid offload of ambulance patients at emergency departments to get paramedics back on the road as soon as possible. Hospitals may also choose to redeploy

staff to work in areas of highest clinical priority and discuss cancelling leave with staff. Health services and the health workforce will continue to have responsibility for clinical and operational decisions that affect patients and their communities. This includes decisions around how to manage internal patient flow within a health service as well as the assessment, treatment and referral of patients, which could see the postponement or deferral of care that is not urgent. There will also be an expansion of Covid-19 streaming sites to increase the number

of hospitals caring for coronavirus patients – easing the pressure at hospitals currently handling the most patients. The Department of Health will also establish a new Health Service Response Centre which will help hospitals coordinate patient flow, distribute activity and support decisions around service reconfiguration – such as suspending some activity or moving to home-based care. The Pandemic Code Brown is expected to last four to six weeks and health officials will monitor the situation to determine when it’s safe to begin winding down arrangements.

We’re building big near you and there will be transport disruptions Train disruptions: Buses replace trains in both directions Cranbourne and Pakenham lines

Until 3 Feb

Westall to Cranbourne and Pakenham

4 Feb to 6 Feb

Dandenong to Cranbourne

From 8.30pm 7 Feb Caulfield to Westall to last train 10 Feb

Road disruptions: Closed roads, lanes and ramps Monash Freeway

At night in Jan

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In Jan

Freeway closed between Warrigal Road and EastLink Lanes and ramps closed between Warrigal Road and EastLink

Princes Freeway

At night in Jan In Jan

Freeway closed between Clyde and Cardinia roads Lanes and ramps closed between Clyde and Cardinia roads

Endeavour Drive, Cranbourne North

Until 21 Jan

Closed between Kennedy and Gillespie courts

Racecourse Road, Pakenham

Until 23 Jan

Closed from Henry Street to Bald Hill Road

Camms Road, Cranbourne

Until 7 Feb

Closed between Murray Court and George Street (some local access)

Fairfield Street, Cranbourne

Until 7 Feb

Closed in both directions between Camms Road and Station Street

Clyde Road, Berwick

Until 20 Feb

Closed between Enterprise Ave and Mansfield Street

Find a detailed list of disruptions at bigbuild.vic.gov.au Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

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Thursday, 20 January, 2022

STAR NEWS 7

NEWS

Teens arrested over string of business burglaries In recent weeks, businesses in the Pakenham area have been plagued by burglaries, but a thorough police investigation came to a head on Friday morning, with a number of teenagers caught and arrested over several break ins. Officers from the Cardinia Criminal Investigation Unit (CIU) arrested three teenagers on Friday 14 January, one as young as 13 years of age, in relation to a series of commercial business burglaries that had happened throughout the area - including the repeated attacks on Pakenham’s Oven Kraft Cafe and an incident at Marketplace Shopping Centre to name a few. Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Chris O’Brien said that while the investigation remained ongoing (as more teens were believed to be involved), it had been a “good result“ for the CIU considering the situation. “Friday was a busy day,“ Detective O’Brien said. “Police made some arrests in relation to that [the Oven Kraft break ins] and a number of other burglaries at commercial businesses.“ In the early hours of Friday morning “with the assistance of the canine unit“, Detective O’Brien said that police had “tracked and located one offender“ who they believe to be involved in the robberies. That offender had “yet to be spoken to“ by officers in relation to the robberies, as they had “received injuries from a police dog bite“ and were currently recovering. “Subsequent to that though, throughout the day, three arrests were made in relation to a series of commercial burglaries,“ he explained.

Pakenham’s Oven Kraft Cafe was attacked by thieves once again on Friday 14 January - a devastating blow for the business. 264826 Pictures: GABRIELLA PAYNE

Arrests were made on Friday in relation to a string of burglaries that had been happening throughout the area. 137393

Cafe stung by thieves

The series of robberies that the group are believed to be involved with range from both large shopping centres to small businesses - but it was a burglary at the BWS Lakeside in Village Way that led police to the culprits. “There was another burglary at a Sammy’s Woodfired Pizza in Station Street, and there were two arrested in the vicinity of that [business] and a third identified who was arrested later in the day,“ he said. Two of the teens arrested, aged 13 and 15 years of age, were remanded in custody over the weekend and faced the Childrens’ Court on Monday morning, while the other teen (age unknown) was released pending summons on Friday. Detective O’Brien said that while it had been a good outcome for the CIU, police “believe there are others involved“ and he urged anyone with information to contact the Pakenham Police Station or Crime Stoppers, on 1800 333 000.

By Gabriella Payne As if the Covid situation wasn’t enough to deal with, a popular Pakenham cafe is now trying to pick up the pieces after being targeted by thieves for the second time in just eight days. The team at the Oven Kraft Cafe and Restaurant on Henry Road had just fixed the damage from a burglary the week prior when they discovered they had been broken into yet again on Friday 14 January - a devastating way to start the year. Oven Kraft’s owner and operator, Amit Sharma, said the attacks were incredibly disheartening, and were seemingly happening “for no reason“, as there was nothing of value left to steal. “I got the call this morning and I just couldn’t believe it, because it’s only been one week [since the last attack],“ Mr Sharma said on Friday. “We are struggling with things the way they are anyway because of this new variant. “Business is very slow at the moment, people are freaked out [due to Covid], so this is just the last thing we need.“ In September last year, Oven Kraft was the victim of yet another robbery in which thousands of dollars worth of alcohol and cash were stolen from the small business - making that three attacks in just five months. In an attempt to prevent being targeted again, Mr Sharma has since stopped serving alcohol at his venue, something he said he “shouldn’t have to do“, but he had been “left with no option“. “I just don’t know what to do,“ he said. “It’s now happening for no reason; we didn’t leave any cash, we pulled down all the alcohol and I am losing my business.

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“We haven’t done anything wrong to anybody here, we’ve always been helpful to the community, but unfortunately there are some people out there who are so low in their lives that they’re doing this.“ Mr Sharma said that “only about $100 worth of stock“ had been stolen in the most recent break in, but despite having insurance, the expensive excess costs were coming out of his own pocket and taking a toll. “I got this door and that door fixed last week on the sixth of January; it cost me $1300 to fix those and now here we are again,“ he said. Despite all the hardships he had faced, Mr Sharma thanked Oven Kraft’s regular customers for all their support through the tough times. “The community has always been very supportive here, and if it weren’t for them, we would not still be here,“ he said.

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

For a FREE measure and quote 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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AFL stars kick in to help By Gabriella Payne A group of energetic kids in Officer were over the moon last week when a few famous faces stopped by for a bit of footy fun - and to help out a great cause. The team at DS Sports, a childrens’ holiday sporting program based in Officer (and Drouin), were thrilled to welcome AFL superstars Cody Weightman and Bigoa Nyuon on Wednesday 12 January for an extra special fundraising event for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. With plenty of fun activities planned, the kids had a blast learning some footy tips and tricks from Bulldogs forward Weightman and Richmond ruckman Nyuon, two local legends who were more than happy to teach the eager kids a thing or two. DS Sports co-founder Steven Dillon said that it had been a fantastic day full of excitement, and on top of that, they managed to raise nearly $3000 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation - an amazing achievement. “It was a great day; it’s good for the kids to meet their stars and good for the area as well,“ he said. Both footy players are from Melbourne’s south eastern suburbs originally, with Weightman hailing from Beaconsfield and Nyuon calling Narre Warren home, so they both jumped at the chance to give back to the local area. “Cody is an ambassador for DS Sports and he has done a lot for our program and the local community,“ Steven explained. “He came to me with the idea [for the fundraiser] and we helped organise it, and the kids were really pumped up to have the two local boys with us. “We’re a sporting childcare program based around engaging kids through active minds, but the day was all based on raising funds for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Gavin Staindl (left) and Steve Dillon (right) from DS Sports. The pair hope to organise plenty more sporting activities for kids throughout the year. “We teamed up with Cody’s brother Jake Weightman too, who is a volunteer at the Casey Cardinia branch, and all up we managed to raise about $3,000 to give back,“ he said. “The boys donated a signed Richmond and Western Bulldogs jumper too [to the raffle] and donated $500 cash for a prize, it was just great.“ Even though the current Covid outbreak tried to throw a spanner in the works, a good number of kids came along on the day and clearly had a blast. Steven thanked the AFL stars for giving up their time and making it a memorable day for all involved. He said they were looking forward to holding more events and sporting excursions to get local kids moving throughout the year - for more information on DS Sports, head to dssports.org/

Kids in Officer at the DS Sports program were delighted to have a visit from some AFL legends last week. Pictures: SUPPLIED

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STAR NEWS 9

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Crossings to be scrapped Works to remove Pakenham’s level crossings are underway, causing traffic detours at McGregor Road, Main Street and Racecourse Road. Night works will eventually see a rail bridge over the three roads as well as new stations at Pakenham and Pakenham East. The Racecourse Road train crossing will be closed to cars from Tuesday 18 January to 11.59pm Sunday 23 January 2022. Detour via McGregor Road or Main Street. Designs for the new Pakenham and East Pakenham stations were recently presented for community consultation. More than 300 local members provided feedback – with gardens, playgrounds and sport and recreational areas among the most popular suggestions to include around the stations, and in the space under the rail bridge. Early ground works on the new Pakenham and East Pakenham stations will start in late 2022, with both new stations to open to passengers in 2024. The preliminary works have already been completed at Main Street and McGregor Road rail crossings. Picture: GABRIELLA PAYNE

Works underway to improve unsealed roads in Officer Works to seal LL Road and Armytage Road, from Brown Road to LL Road, in Officer are underway. The works are part of Cardinia Shire Council’s $25 million Better Local Roads - Strategic Sealed Roads Project and will also include the construction of an interim seal on Brown Road (from Armytage Road to Starling Road), to connect LL Road and Armytage Road to the existing sealed road network.

Pavement construction, kerb and channel, as well as drainage works, will also be completed as part of the project. The council’s Better Local Roads - Strategic Sealed Roads Project will seal approximately 40 kilometres of local unsealed roads in seven locations across the municipality. Cardinia Shire Council Mayor Jeff Springfield said the project will play a significant role in building a better Cardinia by helping

to improve the lives of residents. “The Better Local Roads - Strategic Sealed Roads Project will create strategic links to existing sealed roads in locations where they are needed most, and where they will deliver the most benefit, such as Officer’s LL Road and Armytage Road,“ Cr Springfield said. Works on LL Road, Armytage Road, and Browns Road are fully funded by Council and are scheduled to be completed in mid-

2022, weather permitting. Works under Council’s Better Local Roads - Strategic Sealed Roads Project started in November 2020, on Main Drain Road (between Denhams Road and Ballarto Road) and Boundary Drain Road (between Denhams Road and Kooweerup Road/Station Street) in Kooweerup. Works on these roads have now been completed.

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Flowers smile at the sun By Jonty Ralphsmith Sunflowers are growing to well over two metres in a residential Pakenham backyard, astounding owner Sarah D’Arcy, but rewarding her dedicated garden maintenance. Ms D’Arcy, a Windermere Family Daycarer, has planted sunflowers in the same area of her yard for two years, and at least one flower appears to have well exceeded the three-metre mark. “We love sunflowers because they’re just a fun, bright and happy plant,” Ms D’Arcy said. “It gives you so much joy and satisfaction to watch something grow and see them change directions all the time chasing the sun.” The passion for sunflowers was, however, born more than a decade ago when Ms D’Arcy cared for a child, Callum Mathieson, who admired the garden and gifted sunflower seeds. “I started off in a big old tractor tyre and they grew enormous and I thought ‘that was really cool, it’d be great to do it again’,” Ms D’Arcy said. Two years later, a much older Callum came knocking again, sowing the seed for a larger project as the sunflowers were strategically planted to maximise growth. These sunflowers have inspired a new generation of children, which Ms Darcy says enables them to engage in “good, healthy fun.” While chatting on an outdoor table the pair colloquially calls their own private vineyard, overlooking their garden which also contains cos lettuce, tomatoes, strawberries, basil, zucchini and cucumbers, Tim explains the intrigue of the sunflowers for the kids.

The sunflowers have grown to well over three metres in the D’Arcy’s backyard. 263562

The family has received over 300 grams of seeds from one flower in the past. 265362 Pictures: JONTY RALPHSMITH

Ms D’Arcy reaches up towards her smallest sunflower. 263562

“The kids are in the same environment so it’s important [that] you put something radically different in there that they haven’t seen,” he said. “As interesting as it is to grow everything else, the sunflowers grab their attention and they go ‘this is a really cool thing’. “Since we’ve grown the sunflowers, the kids are now very respectful of the garden. “They introduce kids to a world where you go ‘this is really cool,’ and they ask ‘what else can I do?’”

she will give the sunflowers away, and Tim is hoping to toast the seeds after attaining 300 grams of seeds from one flower last year. So what’s the secret to the sunflower size? “I’m old fashioned, so I use a lot of cow poo and seasalt and have the kids running around with their little watering cans,” Ms D’Arcy said. Tim added: “The bottom of the roots like it when it’s a bit warmer, so at the bottom now we’ve got a row of housebricks left over and we fill it full of sand and put some stones across it, and they’ve come really big.”

Perhaps the most surprising produce, though, is bananas. Victoria’s cool climate would usually prohibit banana growth, but that is offset by the heat that radiates off the tin shed the tree was planted along, and its blooming came as a surprise. While the bananas are still small and yet to ripen, Ms D’Arcy will soon harvest the sunflowers after planting this season’s crop in October. Keen to share the joy she has found since having a veggie patch growing up in Cockatoo,

FOCUS ON … AUSTRALIA DAY

We all call Australia home

COVID-19 restrictions. Australia Day Ambassadors Recruited from a range of fields, ambassadors have demonstrated hard work, talent and a strong sense of patriotism in their achievements. The volunteer role includes attending community events to present awards and take part in local activities as well as delivering a speech of what being Australian means to them. Citizenship ceremonies These are run by Victorian councils each year on Australia Day and people wanting to participate are welcome to take part by pledging the Australian citizenship affirmation statement. Double celebrations Is your birthday on January 26? If so, you can join the Victorian 26er club! Members are sent a lapel pin and birthday card on this day each year. It’s free to join by emailing austday@dpc.vic.gov.au. Babies born on Australia Day are eligible to receive a commemorative spoon as a special addition to their memory box. Email Australia Day Council (Victoria) via australiadaycouncilvictoriainc@iinet.net.au for more information.

How ever you spend Australia Day, make sure you reflect on how lucky we are to call this great country home. Picture: ISTOCK pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

The team trains diligently, so that you can enjoy a relaxing and tasty local cafe experience.

Lime Box Cafe serves The Lime Box Cafe is an innovative community food-centred initiative of Hopeworks Community Solutions developed in partnership with Cardinia Shire Council and the Cardinia Community Food Hub. The Lime Box Cafe is a purpose-built business dedicated to youth training and youth employment opportunities in Food and Catering, while serving the needs of our local community. Youth to Youth Kitchen Our youth team works and trains diligently, so that you can enjoy a relaxing and tasty local cafe experience. We employ 15 youth apprentices and trainees from our community. Community Mission We are driven by our community purpose to train local young people. We engage our local community in Pakenham and the Cardinia Shire, with excellent service, quality food and community spirit. We fulfill several community missions which include youth workplace traineeships, community food rescue and local farmer support. The Lime Box Cafe is located at 18 Golden Green Street (next to the Cardinia Road station) Pakenham, 0466 839 944.

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For some, Australia Day is a great reason to don some fun patriotic clothing, throw some snags on the barbie, catch up with family and friends and enjoy the summer vibe. For others, it’s a deeply emotional day, reflecting on the history and significance of what it means to be an Australian. And for many, it marks the day they officially became an Australian citizen. COVID-19 may have rained on our parade this year, but no matter what your reasons are for celebrating on January 26, have fun, be safe and look after one another – it’s the Aussie way. Here are some of the ways we recognise Australia Day… Australian of the Year awards These awards recognise leading citizens who are role models, inspire through their achievements and community participation and challenge others to make their own contribution to the community. Award categories include Local Hero, Young Australian of the Year, Senior Australian of the Year and Australian of the Year. The 2021 Victorian Australian of the Year Award recipients were announced in October last year at an online ceremony due to

18 Golden Green St. Pakenham www.thelimeboxcafe.com.au Ph: 0466 839 944 Thursday, 20 January, 2022

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FOCUS ON … MEDICALLY SPEAKING

Take a look at MRIs

Greg (sonographer), Liz (radiographer), Dr David Wang (clinic director), Joel (chief radiographer), Melissa (office supervisor) and Xia (account manager). 262646 imaging around the prosthesis is sometimes not quite as clear. Where can patients find out more information about MRI scanning? Head to the I-MED Radiology website i-med. com.au where there is a whole page dedicated to MRI imaging that includes a video on what to expect during an MRI. The team at I-MED Radiology look forward to caring for you during your next appointment at our new Pakenham clinic, 5947 7000.

W O N N PE O

MRI technology - what’s it all about? In November last year I-MED Radiology brought its trusted brand to the Pakenham community, opening a fully comprehensive purpose-built modern clinic located at 20 Main Street, Pakenham. MRI technology forms part of that service offering. What does MRI stand for? Magnetic Resonance Imaging What does MRI do? MRI scanning lets radiologists see inside the body to identify and diagnose a wide variety of possible medical conditions. How does it work? MRI uses a powerful magnet, radio waves, and special coils to detect electrical signals from your body. A computer then turns this information into detailed images, which radiologists can use to help determine what might be wrong. Which body parts are best seen using MRI? Pretty much all, however, most commonly the soft tissue structures such as brain, ligaments of the knee and spinal cord are frequently imaged using MRI Is MRI safe? Very safe, there is no ionising radiation with MRI. What about the magnet? There are special precautions taken in the form of a very detailed checklist that the MRI staff will go through with the patient before they enter the magnet. This is because any metal components such as fragments of metal in the eye can move or heat up slightly and cause damage. It’s very important that the patient safety checklist is completed with care and attention to detail. What would happen if it was possible a patient had metal in their eyes? Prior to the patient entering the MRI they would have a plain x-ray of their eye orbits and any metal would be clearly seen. If metal is found they would then be referred back to their GP to arrange for an appointment to see an ophthalmologist to arrange to have the metal removed safely. Can you have a MRI scan if you have a prosthetic hip or knee? Yes you can …… the prosthesis will not move as its well secured into the bone, however, the

I-MED Radiology Pakenham

Fine art of dentures Kerri Sawdon is a dental prosthetist who makes and repairs dentures as well as mouthguards. Her Pakenham-based business offers a friendly and relaxed environment, and provides services direct to the public. Kerri’s business encourages patient feedback to ensure that every customer receives the desired outcome. Kerri has been working in Pakenham as a prosthetist for 12 years , although she offers

more than 31 years of experience in the industry. Her friendly and relaxed clinic aims to ensure every customer feels comfortable throughout their visit. The clinic is at 2 McGregor Road, Pakenham, next to the chapel on the corner of Main Street and McGregor Road. Call for appointments or inquiries on 5940 8055.

DENTURES DIRECT TO PUBLIC • No Referral Needed • Full & Partial Dentures • Relines & Repairs

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Jenni Ivins will be visiting four businesses in Cardinia to create four unique mind drawings, representing the each area.

The art of business By Shelby Brooks A local artist has created a unique opportunity to merge art, business and community in an exciting project for the 2022 What’s On Cardinia Festival. Jenni Ivins’ project, The Art of Business and Community, will see her craft four unique artworks that highlight business and community in four locations across Cardinia Shire. Each location will be at a different business in the shire, with the aim of encouraging patrons to the venues while she makes her art. Star News Group successfully partnered with Ms Ivins in 2020 to produce the board game initiative, A Part Together, which received the 2021 Victorian Country Press Association award for the Best Community Campaign. It is again supporting Ms Ivins in this project. The drawings will be published each week in the Pakenham Berwick Gazette along with written content about the host business and their local community. “I’m very excited about exploring the area with the community and working with Star News Group again following the success of the award-winning project, A Part Together,” Ms Ivins said. “I’m looking forward to engaging the community and visiting the host businesses to get to know more about what they do.” Members of the community are encouraged to send in items or photos of special features of the area for Ms Ivins to include in the drawing. She will also be interested to hear stories about how the items represent an aspect of the area, maybe its history, environment, or culture. The end result will be a mind drawing from each location- a detailed picture in which the lines may be interpreted in more than one way. Readers can search the finished works for their items and the artist’s iconic hidden fourleafed clover and a star to represent Star News Group. Ms Ivins will also record people’s stories, which may appear in the article that will accompany the large mind drawing in the local paper. Ms Ivins first stop will be at Brunch on Mc-

An example of the type of mind drawing Jenni Ivins will create in the Art of Business and Community project in February. Bride on Tuesday 1 February from 10am to 4pm with the artwork to be published in the Gazette on Wednesday 9 February. The second stop will be Cannibal Creek Winery on Friday 4 February 10am to 2pm with the artwork to be published in the Gazette on Wednesday 16 February. The third stop will be Upper Beaconsfield General Store on Tuesday 15 February from 10am to 4pm with the artwork to be published in the Gazette on Wednesday 23 February. The fourth and final stop will be Caldermeade Farm on Monday 21 February 11am to 4pm with the artwork to be published in the Gazette on Wednesday 2 March. If you can find the item that you show to Jenni for her to represent in the drawing, take a photo and post it on Facebook or Instagram, using the tags #WhatsOnCardiniaFestival #MindDrawing #StarNewsGroup You can also visit redbubble.com/people/ jennilivins/shop to buy a printed version of the artwork after it is created. Contact Jenni via jenni@minddrawing.net for more information or to send your photos and memories in for inclusion. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Kids roll up their sleeves By Gabriella Payne Kids from across the Cardinia Shire have been rolling up their sleeves and doing their bit for the wider community over the past week, as vaccination centres welcomed 5-11 year olds from Monday 10 January onwards. Pakenham’s James Bathe Pavilion was a hive of activity on Friday 14 January when the Gazette stopped by, as children (accompanied by their parents) eagerly got their jabs at the special paediatric wing of the EACH vaccination hub. Laura, mum to Mabel and Herbie, said that their experience had been a very positive one, with the whole process being incredibly “smooth“ overall. “I think it’s really well organised,“ she said. “It’s good that it’s focused for kids and that the staff are doing a little bit extra to make sure they are doing okay and not scared.“ Dad, Matt, agreed and said the “professional level of distractions“ had been fantastic. Another mother, Anitha, said that she had been quite nervous beforehand - but she and her two children, Darren and Davinah, were all quickly made to feel at ease and the level of communication at the vaccination centre was exceptional. “The ambience in there is just so good,“ Anitha said. “I was really stressed when I came in, but all the staff are really friendly and it’s a good set up where they make the kids feel comfortable by drawing pictures and all sorts - a kind of diversional thing - so yeah, it was great!“ 10 year-old James, who loves dinosaurs, said that instead of butterflies, he had had “pterodactyls“ in his tummy beforehand, but was feeling good after getting his vaccine, and mum Vanessa said she was very impressed by his bravery.

Anitha with her two Children Davinah (6) and Darren (8), who proudly showed off their new Pictures: ROB CAREW colouring book and fidget spinner. 264697

Staff, from left, Roslyn Devienne (Clinical Lead Nurse Immuniser), Manisha Patel (Admin), Yaser Jafari (Admin), Dr Vishal Patil, Anifa Zhong (Nurse Immuniser). 264697

Parents Matt and Laura with Herbie (5) and Mabel (8). Mabel’s toy red panda held her hand the whole way through! 264697

Clinical lead nurse immuniser, Roslyn Devienne, said that it had been great to see so many local kids and their parents coming in and making use of the centre so far and the team hoped to see many more make appointments in the coming weeks. “It’s a great environment,“ she said.

“The kids get to draw their names on leaves and then put them on the tree and we’ve got bubble machines, we’ve got people to help, we’ve got little toys to play with - so we try to make it as fun as possible, and I think they are really enjoying it so far. “At the moment it’s all based on how much

Mum Vanessa with James (10) showing his arm after getting vaccinated. 264697

Koby (9) with his Mum Lisa after getting his jab. 264697 of the vaccine we can get,“ she explained, “but we are going to be ramping up from next week and hope to get through as many people as possible.“ For more information or to book yours or your child’s vaccine appointment, head to each.com.au/covid-19-vaccination-clinics/

FOCUS ON … DANCE, MUSIC AND DRAMA

Celebrating 30 years at Cathy-Lea Studios

Doors open The year ahead is an exciting one for Opening Night Supplies with the store doubling in size over the holidays, including the installation of a dedicated shoe fitting area as well as a fabric and trims area. Ray Rose Ballroom shoes will be available in the coming weeks and many more fabulous dance and calisthenics products are available. With an exciting Pointe Shoe Fitting Program beginning, the staff at Opening Night will help you to understand why you should wear the style chosen for you, and how to best maintain your foot health and shoe quality. Priding themselves on a high quality of service and a wide range of products and suppliers, Opening Night Supplies caters to all performers locally as well as far and wide. Opening Night Supplies services calisthenics clubs, dancing schools, costume designers and other performing enthusiasts around Australia. Owners Melinda Moutsos and Carolyn Grant have been involved in calisthenics and pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

dance for over 20 years, and love helping performers reach their full potential and shine on stage. Melinda and Carolyn would like to thank the community for their support over the tough times in lockdown, along with their landlords at Seebeck Property Group and fabulous local and international suppliers. The growth of the business over the last three years has enabled Melinda and Carolyn to hire young local performers to work at the shop, and the business looks forward to supporting local events such as the Morwell Festival of Dance and Longbeach Calisthenics Competition later in the year. Opening Night Supplies is located at Shop 2/32 Treloar Lane, Pakenham. For more information, visit www.openingnightsupplies. com or phone (03) 5941 5713. Opening hours: Monday to Tuesday - 10am to 5pm, Wednesday to Friday - 9.30am to 5pm, Saturday - 9am

Ready Set Dance and Ready Set Ballet preschool programs teach confidence, co-ordination and creativity to boys and girls aged two to five. Classes are jam-packed with engaging music, bright props and fun routines! New pre-school acro classes teach basic tumbling and co-ordination skills. The Elite Training Program at Cathy-Lea offers talented and dedicated students extension training, performance opportunities and preparation for performing arts careers. Teachers are professional performing artists,

highly qualified coaches and master educators. All abilities fun classes develop confidence, co-ordination, fitness and friendships. New 16+ classes offer young adults with prior dance training the opportunity to dance for fun and fitness. With over 150 classes per week in dance, music and drama on offer, Cathy-Lea is sure to have a class that meets your needs. Please contact Cathy on cathy-lea@cathy-lea.com or 9704 7324 or visit the website cathy-lea. com to book your free trial class.

WE HAVE DOUBLED IN SIZE!

‘NOW OFFERING POINTE SHOES’

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nation, fitness, friendships and a love of performing arts from their training at Cathy-Lea Studios. Renowned for its high standards, disciplined classes, and friendly, expert staff, Cathy-Lea encourages students of all abilities to shine, training through recognised syllabi and affiliated with professional associations including Cecchetti International Ballet, The Australian Teachers of Dancing, Ausdance VIC and AMEB. Cathy-Lea is also a provider of VCE and VET Dance. The highly awarded

Bookings open for your personalised fitting service

Call in and see our new look store. Shop contact details: ph: 03 5941 5713 Shop 2, 32 Treloar Lane, Pakenham 3810 online: www.openingnightsupplies.com

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Cathy-Lea Studios are celebrating 30 years in Casey in 2022 and we want you to join us! Enrolments are now open for all ages and abilities via cathy-lea.com Offering tuition in ballet, jazz, tap, contemporary dance, hip hop, lyrical, acrobatics, drama, singing, musical theatre and instrumental music, Cathy-Lea has been a leader in performing arts training in South East Melbourne since 1991. Scores of graduates have pursued careers in performance and thousands have gained confidence, coordi-

Thursday, 20 January, 2022

STAR NEWS 15

BUSINESS PROFILE

Blood pressure and ageing

Is high blood pressure a normal part of ageing? predict whether you have it or not. Some believe that nose bleeds and dizziness can be a symptom of hypertension, but this is inconclusive and won’t apply to everybody with the condition. Therefore, it is crucial you regularly

check your blood pressure either at routine check-ups or at home using a self-monitor. Is high blood pressure inevitable in older age? Older age IS a risk factor for developing high

blood pressure. In fact, up to 80% of people over 65 have measurable high blood pressure. One theory as to why this happens is that, with natural aging, the arteries harden and cause abnormally high systolic blood pressure (the first / top number in the blood pressure reading) with normal diastolic blood pressure (the second / bottom number). Another theory is that it is a natural side effect of a deteriorating heart. Sometimes high blood pressure can also be a secondary illness to another condition experienced by the older person, or even a side effect from medications to treat something else. Whatever the cause (and there can be more than one), anyone over the age of 65 is advised to regularly check their blood pressure to deter the risk of stroke, heart attack and kidney problems. What can you do if you have high blood pressure? If you have discovered you have high blood pressure and want to take proactive steps towards better health, Bond Radiology can help. An echocardiogram will help detect numerous heart problems and might give you a better understanding of why you are experiencing high blood pressure. You can also be checked for carotid artery disease and peripheral arterial disease. To discuss the best tests and procedures for you, contact us on (03) 9132 5073. Whatever you do, don’t ignore high blood pressure or assume it’ll go away on its own, especially if you are over the age of 65. Prolonged high blood pressure can cause serious health issues, many of which can have long-term negative impacts on your quality of life or even put your life at risk. Instead, take proactive steps to manage high blood pressure such as keeping up good exercise, eating low-in-salt foods and quitting smoking. You can also read our guide to good heart health to discover more about taking care of your body and staying fit and active no matter your age or ability.

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We have all had a blood pressure test at some point in our lives. It is a standardised procedure routinely undertaken at check-ups to measure the force of blood pushing against vessel walls, and can tell a clinician a lot about the health and wellbeing of an individual. Our blood pressure can often change. Sometimes it can slow right down and cause hypotension, and other times it can increase to the point of hypertension – both of these conditions are cause for concern and require treatment. But is high blood pressure inevitable in older age? And if so, is there any point in doing something about it? What is high blood pressure? High blood pressure is potentially dangerous, especially when it is prolonged, because it makes the heart work harder to pump blood around the body. Doing this can cause arteries to harden, or trigger a stroke, kidney disease or even failure of the heart. Given that cardiovascular disease is one of the more prevalent causes of death worldwide, heart health should remain a priority and high blood pressure can be the first warning sign that all is not well. A high blood pressure reading is anything over 130-139/80-89. If your blood pressure reaches 180/higher than 120, you are in hypertension crisis and should seek immediate medical attention. Causes of high blood pressure vary, but you’re more likely to suffer with this condition if you are a smoker, stressed, lacking in physical activity, or have a family history of high blood pressure. What are the symptoms of high blood pressure? Not everyone with high blood pressure knows they have the condition, and often it can come as a surprise during a routine doctor’s checkup. In fact, there are so few symptoms of high blood pressure that it can be impossible to

16 STAR NEWS

Thursday, 20 January, 2022

pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Drew Gormlie, Amy Breen, then-Mayor Amanda Stapledon and Anthony Cheeseman at the opening Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS of Larte Central cafe. 198555

Then-Mayor Amanda Stapledon celebrates with Casey Cardinia Business of the Year recipients from Gumbuya World. 199194

Cr rocked by IBAC inquiry By Cam Lucadou-Wells Friends of the late Casey councillor Amanda Stapledon say she had been “deeply upset” by an IBAC investigation into alleged corruption by Casey councillors. With IBAC expected to finalise its report soon, Ms Stapledon’s close friend Kerril Burns said the protracted two-year ordeal had a deep impact. “The treatment of all people involved in all IBAC investigations needs to be thoroughly investigated. “This has dragged on for so long and it has to affect a person’s mind. “People who are not criminals should not be treated as such.” As a councillor, Ms Stapledon was interested in “every resident’s problems”, Ms Burns said. “When I first met Amanda I received the same cheerful smile to which all who know her are accustomed. “My memories of Amanda will always be of the wonderful caring person who loved her father, mother and son so much. “She loved Casey and Cranbourne in particular so much, and relished her time representing the residents of Casey. “She will be sorely missed by so many of us.” Former Casey councillor Colin Butler said Ms Stapledon’s passing was an “absolute tragedy”. “She was fine until (IBAC) hit and she went downhill from there. We tried and tried and tried but in the end it got her. “I didn’t think she’d take it to heart that badly. It didn’t matter how many times we said you did nothing wrong. “We’ve lost such an important person in the community. “I think she’s the most selfless person I’ve met. It wasn’t about her but about everyone else.” She’d help anyone regardless of politics or religious affiliation, he said. “She found time for everybody. I don’t know how – she said she just liked to keep going and going all the time. “I don’t think I’ve come across a more community-minded person-councillor-mayor in my life. She was way in front of everyone else.“ At the IBAC Operation Sandon inquiry in 2020, Ms Stapledon conceded that she’d failed to properly declare a conflict of interest at council – namely a $25,000 state election donation from property developer John Woodman who had a stake in rezoning industrial land in Cranbourne West. After the 2016 council election, Ms Stapledon also omitted declaring being part of Mr Woodman’s $100,000 campaign for a group of “like-minded” candidates. She had said she was uncertain whether Mr Woodman had funded the campaign. She also met with Mr Woodman shortly before being elected as mayor in 2018. “Mr Woodman has never asked me to do anything for him,” Ms Stapledon told the inquiry. “I need to be very clear there: he has done nothing improper in that regard.” pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

Amanda Stapledon with Cranbourne Bowls Club’s Tony Collins, Ray Boskell and Shirley Venville. 197309

Amanda Stapledon with Berwick City Soccer Club president Nicky Woodward and players Kayden, Kalesi, Kortez and Kyenne and councillor Rosalie Crestani. 198606

Amanda Stapledon with a Christmas Tree at Bunjil Place. 188188 Close friend Rob Ward said Ms Stapledon may have been too naive and trusting of others. There was “not an ounce of malfeasance“ in her, he said. “She was an outstanding human being who will be greatly missed not just for what she did but for who she was. “A kinder, more generous, gentler person you could not find. Her dedication to her son for more than 20 years is legendary. “The pressure that IBAC brought to bear was intolerable. There are people who do the wrong thing that have no conscience but she was so tender that the thought of making a mistake was too much to bear.“ Former councillor Wayne Smith said Ms Stapledon was a “genuinely good representative who cared for her community”. “Her community was number one. That was shown in the fact she supported so many organisations. “It has come as a shock. “Last time I spoke to her was before last Christmas, she seemed OK. I’m disappointed she didn’t feel she could reach out.” Kay Morland, wife of late Casey mayor Mick

Pictures: ROB CAREW

Morland, said it was “impossible to recognise all that Amanda was to her family, her friends and this community”. She touched thousands with her tireless support for many community groups within and outside Casey. “She was the most community minded and caring human being I ever met,” Mrs Morland said. “Amanda always saw the best in everyone and was more than generous in her praise, support and encouragement to all. “We shared an ongoing joke about wearing the right shoes for the occasion and many times she would glance my way during a function, wink and hold out her foot for approval. “The world is a lesser place now she’s not here. RIP gorgeous girl. I hope you know how loved you were.” Former councillor Damien Rosario said Ms Stapledon was “truly the best of us”. “She truly did care about the community and worked very hard to improve things for the lives of her residents. “Even after council, she was volunteering with groups and guiding them – it was a testa-

Then-Mayor Amanda Stapledon celebrates with Casey Cardinia Business of the Year recipients from Gumbuya World. 199194 ment to who she was.” Ms Stapledon was the driver of the inclusive playground Livvi’s Place in Lyndhurst, Mr Rosario said. “Her name should have been on that plaque (at the playground).” In a statement, City of Casey stated Ms Stapledon focussed on improving access and inclusion for all. “As a sole carer of an adult child with a disability, she understood the pressure on families, carers, and our older persons. “Many would describe Amanda as someone who had dedicated her life, aside from her family, to helping others.” She also advocated for tourism, roads and key infrastructure as well as waste management and longer-term sustainability. “She is no doubt missed and mourned by many. “Rest in peace, Amanda Stapledon.” For crisis support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au or beyond blue on 1300 22 4636 or beyondblue.org.au Thursday, 20 January, 2022

STAR NEWS 17

NEWS

Hosting at Nossal High By Jamie Salter

Lakyn Bryant from Upwey celebrating Australia Day in 2021. 203155

Picture: SUPPLIED

Celebrating online this Australia Day Cardinia Shire Council’s annual Australia Day ceremony has pushed online following Omicron concerns. The 2022 Australia Day award ceremony will be announced online instead of in person, next week on Tuesday 25 January. Nominees for Citizen of the Year are Phil Anning, Binita Maskey, Rachelle Mechielsen, Shoheli Sunjida, Carol Thompson and Elise Turnedge. The Senior Citizen of the Year nominees are Magda Lane, Geoffrey Pepperell, Jenny Reynolds, Graeme and Ann Taylor and Ian Wake. The Young Citizen of the Year nominees are Jacynta Howden, Arshu Maskey, Selby McDonald, Annabelle Morton and Charlotte O-Sullivan. The Community Event of the Year nominees are the Beaconsfield Australia Day Family Drive-in Movie Night, the Cockatoo Country Market, Eid Bazar in Cardinia, Eid Prayer in Cardinia Shire and the Vaccination pop-up clinic. Cardinia Shire Mayor Jeff Springfield congratulated all nominees and thanked them for their valuable contribution.

“Congratulations to all of our nominees for our 2022 Australia Day awards,” he said. “Thank you to each and every one of you for your amazing efforts and contributions. “It’s been another challenging year, and I’m so proud of the resilience and community spirit that I’ve witnessed in action across the shire. This is particularly true of our Australia Day nominees whose dedication and commitment to the local community is so appreciated.” The ceremony will be streamed at cardinia. vic.gov.au/australiaday from 6.30pm Tuesday 25 January and will be free for all residents to view. Another event to be cancelled due to the current Covid-19 situation is the Lakeside Residents Group’s mini walk event. The group was unable to find a sufficient number of volunteers that were not in isolation. “We are very saddened to have to make this decision and hope to be able to resume our normal events within the next few months,” Wendy Andrews from the group said. Committees in Cockatoo and Beacons-

field are hopeful their events will go ahead as scheduled. The Connecting Cockatoo Communities is promoting its Australia Day Event, taking place next Wednesday at Alma Treloar Reserve. There will be a free coffee van from 8.30am and the event will feature performances from local musicians including Elise Turnedge’s ‘The Sound of Generators’. Australia Day ambassador, Father Bob Maguire will be in attendance and local community awards including senior citizen of the year and youth citizen of the year will be awarded from 9.00. The event is child-friendly and estimated to go for about two hours, after which complimentary/complementary morning tea will be available. The Beaconsfield Progress Association has planned a free family drive-in movie night from 8pm on Wednesday 26 January. Supported by Cardinia Shire Council, the movie ’The Dish’ will be screened at Holm Park Reserve. The event is alcohol-free BYO food and drink.

Local scouts attend Victorian Jamboree By Jamie Salter More than 7000 youth members, leaders and support staff across the whole state are still feeling the positive effects of the Victorian Jamboree (Vic Jam). Pakenham, Lakeside Pakenham, Beaconsfield - Officer, 1st Upper Beaconsfield, 1st Kooweerup and 1st Bunyip were among the scout groups who attended the major event. The Australian Jamboree brings scout groups from across the nation together for a 11 days of fun, friendship and adventure. The event is usually held every three years and was moved to Victoria in 2021-22 due to the coronavirus pandemic. Set up like a small town, the scouts have everything they need on site, including a supermarket and welfare hospital as well as a daily printed newspaper and radio station. Cardinia district development leader Rachel Byron said children form memories to last a lifetime at Vic Jam. “My 14 year old son Harry went and had a lot of fun,” she said. 18 STAR NEWS

Thursday, 20 January, 2022

On behalf of Rotary Australia, Nossal High School is hosting an Australia Day event that aims to reduce the prevalence of family violence. A Zoom broadcast will showcase Rotary SAFE Families - a primary prevention model of Stopping Abuse in Families Everywhere (SAFE) including women, men, children and the elderly. This model has reached more than 100 Rotary clubs Australia-wide over the past five years, relaying the latest news and methods of abuse prevention. Founder Dorothy Gilmour said family abuse was a crime that needed to be prevented. “The program informs Rotarians what abuse looks like and to realise the three Rs - recognise the signs, raise concerns safely and refer the victim to professional support,” she said. “It’s such a simple program but the idea is to get as many Rotarians as possible to become informed to talk about abuse. “Our Australia Day message is for old and new Australians, with resources available for multicultural communities in their preferred language at rotarysafefamilies.org.au” Marking both 101 years of Rotary volunteering in Australia and Australia Day, the event will also detail several of Rotary’s major projects. Past Rotary district governor and Nossal ICT manager Mark Humphries said he was looking forward to hosting the Zoom broadcast at the school. “We’re doing a national broadcast to celebrate Australia Day and to highlight some of the work that we’re doing across Australia,” Mr Humphries said. “I have all the IT infrastructure at Nossal to put on a fairly good production. “It’s great for Rotary to show we’re moving with the times and it’s great for Nossal because we have a large community focus and this is a way for the school to give back to their local community.” Rotary International Zone 8 director Dr Jessie Harman will be one of the keynote speakers and will discuss Rotary’s impact on the community. Australian opera singer Lisa Edwards will be signing for the event as well as Alison Jones who will deliver a live performance of the national anthem. World-famous singer Josh Piterman, known for his work in the West End Production of The Phantom of the Opera in London, will also be performing. “Josh is an amazing singer,” Mr Humphries said. The event will also pay respect to First Nations people, with a Welcome to Country and display of Indigenous art and artefacts, highlighted in the broadcast. The broadcast will be held on Wednesday, 26 January from 1pm at Nossal High School.

Australian actor Rob Mills visits Unit 140 (Pakenham and Mordialloc Scout Groups). She said it was a chance to complete scout activities outside of the home. “Because of Covid-19, it was their first chance to get out and about - it was great.” The Victorian Jamboree took place in Elmore

from December 29, 2021 to January 8, 2022. The previous Jamboree was held in South Australia, 2019, and the next Jamboree will be held in January, 2025 at Maryborough, Queensland.

Zone 8 director Dr Jessie Harman presenting at the 2021 Australia Day event. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Big summer read a hit By Gabriella Payne

Pakenham Library’s youth services staff members Alysha (left) and Vicki (right) with books in the reading area. 264714

Mohit Malik (left) with his 11 year old son Raunak (right) at the Pakenham Library enjoying a good Pictures: ROB CAREW read! 264714

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Dir ty on dining

By Gabriella Payne

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

“About Children, Being Children”

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come and select their own favourite reads right across the holidays,“ she said. Vicki Thornton, a youth services representative from Pakenham Library, said that it would be great to see more local kids immerse themselves in books, even if they weren’t your ’typical’ style novel. “It doesn’t have to be fiction - it could be non-fiction, it could be a magazine, it could be manga - it’s about getting them to think beyond ‘a book is a fiction book’ that maybe they aren’t interested in,“ Ms Thornton explained. “There really is a book for everybody!“ The Big Summer Read competition runs until Monday 31 January, but the Pakenham Library is always welcoming new readers to come on in and pick up a book! For more information on the competition and prizes, head to cclc.vic.gov.au/big-summer-read/

202102197591_1-SN09-21

Kids across the Cardinia Shire have been keeping their literacy skills up this holiday season with the ’Big Summer Read’ initiative, and if your child is a keen book worm, it’s not too late to join in! The Big Summer Read is a fun and dynamic book reading campaign supported across all public libraries in Victoria for children ages 5 and up, and there are plenty of prizes to be won. As well as encouraging youngsters to get lost in as many books as they can manage, the competition allows families to discover the magic of their local library - something that’s been a challenge with all the Covid hurdles over the past two years! Beth Luppino, the CEO of Casey Cardinia Libraries, said that by taking part in the competition, kids could sharpen up their reading skills while discovering new worlds at the same time. “Reading should be fun, and it gets easier for children the more they practise,“ Ms Luppino said. “After the last two years of Covid lockdowns, we want the kids in Casey and Cardinia to get a head-start on their learning in 2022 and avoid the ‘summer slide’ where literacy skills often drop over the school holidays. “The Big Summer Read is a really easy way to keep kids engaged in literacy and learning when they are not at school – what is not to love about books, virtual badges and a big prize draw? “Our libraries are open and ready for kids to

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WHAT’S ON Eatz and Beatz Live music and food trucks are coming to Myuna Farm, Casey on Friday 21 January. The nursery will be open from 5pm until 7.30pm for people to walk around. Tickets cost $3 per person or $10 for a family of four. To book your spot, visit trybooking.com/ events/landing?eid=857887&

AFLW Game: Melbourne Demons v St Kilda Saints Melbourne take on St Kilda in their first game at Casey Fields for the season at 3.10pm on Saturday 22 January in round three of the AFLW season. Free entry for children, $10 for adults. As well as the on-field action, there will also be family friendly events.

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The City of Casey is welcoming females to free badminton sessions at Casey Stadium as a fun way to get active and try something new. The classes take place from 4.00-6.00pm each Wednesday afternoon. Prior skills or knowledge is not necessary. people can book their place via the following link: casey.vic.gov.au/events/caseygirlscanbadminton-casey-stadium

Adult Drawing Classes Casey City Council is inviting adults to a six-week drawing course every Monday from 6-8pm for six weeks from 31 January at the Cranbourne West Community Centre. The course costs $110 and will focus on teaching observational skills of drawing from reality. People of all drawing abilities are welcome. Book at trybooking.com/events/ landing?eid=840800&

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The Casey Cardinia Life Activities Club is a welcoming vibrant social club for active senior men and women who live in the City Of Casey and the Shire of Cardinia and surrounding areas. Activities include sequence in line dancing, dine outs, table tennis, coffee mornings, IT discussion groups, Saturday country rambles, walking groups, coach trips, musical theatre and others. They have a strong social calendar and if you are independent, young at heart and feel they might inspire you, make contact with their enquiry officer on 0468 363 616.

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STAR NEWS 21

SPORT

Making a first impression By David Nagel Some say making a first impression is everything in life…well if that’s the case then Aaren Corrin will never forget his first spell of bowling for his brand-new cricket club – Nar Nar Goon/Maryknoll on Saturday. Corrin, who transferred from Lang Lang to Nar Nar Goon over Christmas, experienced a roller-coaster ride against Pakenham in WGCA E Grade on the weekend, starting nervously before finishing in style…claiming the second hattrick of his career. Corrin would finish with figures of 4/41 from his eight-over spell, bowling one maiden along the way – but that only tells part of the story. “It didn’t start too good, being my first game with the club I didn’t know the blokes I was playing with, knew nothing about the opposition, so they handed me the ball and I got slogsweeped for six first ball,” Corrin said. “The captain asked me if I would like to change the field. I put a player at deep-mid-on and the second ball went straight to him – but he was three-quarters in and the ball landed over his head and went for four. “I was pretty nervous; it wasn’t the ideal start with a new club.” The 33-year-old left-arm off-spinner would go for 15 from his first over before changing angles, going from over to around the wicket and going for just two in his second over. “That felt better, I started to get into a rhythm then.” Corrin, who lives in Hampton Park with his wife Mellissa and three children, Cooper John, Ethan and Nevaeh, made the switch from Lang Lang to Nar Nar Goon to provide a fresh start to the new year for both he and his young family. A strong connection with Nar Nar Goon/ Maryknoll coach Mansoor Ahmad – who coached Corrin when both played at Aura Vale three years ago – was another magnetising force when it came to changing clubs. “Manny worded up the captain (Brandon Interlandi) that I could bowl a bit, but I don’t know what he was thinking after two balls,”

Aaren Corrin claimed a hat-trick on Saturday in his first-ever game for Nar Nar Goon/Maryknoll. 265094 Picture: SUPPLIED

Aaren Corrin with two of his biggest fans, daughter Nevaeh and son Ethan. 265094

Corrin said with a chuckle. It may not have been obviously clear from the outset, but Ahmad was spot on in his assessment of Corrin – whose previous record suggests he certainly could bowl a bit. Playing for another previous club, Kooweerup, back in 2016, Corrin claimed a hat-trick in D Grade against Emerald, finishing with the impressive figures of 6/22. And then last season, playing for Lang Lang, Corrin bagged career-best figures of 6/18 to lead the Swamp Tigers to victory over Cranbourne Meadows. But Saturday at Toomuc Reserve, taking on the Lions, well that threw up some difficult new challenges to overcome. The Marygoons had made some early breakthroughs, having the Lions 3/26 at one stage, before Pakenham skipper Scott Webster (61) and veteran superstar Dale McCraw (55) put on an 84-run stand for the fourth wicket.

seen it all on a cricket field. “I pitched it up, he came forward, it hit him on the pads and we all went up like crazy,” Corrin said. “I really didn’t think his teammate was going to give it…but his finger went up and it was all very exciting. “I was excited, especially being my first game for the Goon, to actually go out and do something that’s not an easy thing to do was a memorable experience. “I’ve been lucky enough to do it before, so it wasn’t new to me, but the other guys were all pretty excited as well. “Everyone had found out about it by the time we got back to the club and clapped me as I got out of the car, it was a good feeling, being my first game, having everyone congratulate me like that was a really good feeling.” That, Aaren Corrin, is how you make a good first impression!

Now settled, Corrin would break the partnership in his third over, taking out McCraw’s off stump, before finding his rhythm and bowling a much-improved spell. It was his eighth and final over when that first impression with his teammates went from a little shaky to something none of them would forget in a hurry. Webster, who attempted a similar slog sweep to the one that cleared the ropes off Corrin’s first ball, skied his mistimed shot and was caught by Daniel Rodger, before James Ahern became Corrin’s second victim. “He had spooned a ball earlier to cover, so we put a short-cover in and sure enough he hit it straight to him,” Corrin recalled. “I was then on a hattrick…but kept the same field.” The final battle to overcome was not an easy assignment, with Pakenham batter Mick McLaren an experienced campaigner who has

Crowds love the thrills and spills at Drouin Speedway By Dean Thompson Drouin Speedway on Saturday night held three important feature race events in front of a large crowd enjoying twilight racing from early afternoon and into the evening. Shane Stewart from Morwell won the second annual Standard Saloon ‘Sally Memorial’, while Dale Smith from Melbourne’s Eastern Suburbs won the Sports Sedan Gippsland Cup and Harry Cecil the first round of the Junior Standard Saloon Victorian series. In support racing, Rebecca Glassborow won the Ladies Standard Saloon final. Just over 25 race drivers entered the Standard Saloon event with the defending ‘Sally Memorial’ winner Jeff Blencowe amongst the line-up that included Shane Stewart, Daniel Stewart - the current Victoria number one - and Daniel Walkinshaw, son of Sally for whom the race is in honour of. Drivers competed across nine heat qualifiers where they raced in three each with Jacob Vuillermin, Walkinshaw, Daniel Stewart, Chris Miles, Beau Evans, Kane Gibson, Shane Stewart, Dean Spring and Shane Ardley making sure there were nine different winners on the way to the big race. After a top-six qualifier envelope mystery redraw, Miles started at the front of the field with Shane Stewart, Walkinshaw, Vuillermin, Daniel Stewart and Mark Borkowski the top six starters. Miles got away early with the Victorian champion tailing him and Vuillermin in third. Walkinshaw dropped back down the top-10 before attrition and his own passing of others brought him closer to the front again. During the race, a spin to Daniel Stewart 22 STAR NEWS

Thursday, 20 January, 2022

In action at Drouin is Standard Saloon ‘Sally Memorial’ winner Shane Stewart from Morwell. 265132 Pictures: LOUISE NORMAN/NAPIER PHOTOGRAPHY sent him to the rear of the field and there were flat tyres, front suspension damage and crashes to various race drivers, the biggest being to Shane Ardley who required paramedical attention infield. Shane Stewart assumed control of the race with Miles dropping back behind Vuillermin and eventually Daniel Stewart made it back in podium contention from last after his earlier spin - earning himself a ‘Hard Charger’ award. Ardley, whilst third, hit the concrete wall and exited the race with his car damaged and himself winded. Daniel Stewart passed Vuillermin and Shane Stewart greeted the chequered flag victorious with Daniel Stewart behind him then Vuillermin, Chris Miles and Mark Miles. In the Sports Sedan Gippsland Cup action,

which doubled as a state series round, the class Victorian champion Lee Beach began the nine qualifying races with victory, however it would be his club mates Rob Garlick. Brendan Miller and Dale Smith who would make the most of their starting spots in the qualifiers to secure two wins each. Beach, Joel Copeland, Garlick, Brendan Miller, Garlick again, Smith, Brendan Miller again, Scott Angus and Smith a second time rounded out the qualifying winners. In the 20-lap final, things started well for Miller at the front of the field before spinning himself out of contention. Garlick and Bradin Claridge - who are high up in the state series standings - were amongst the unfortunates not to finish the final. Beach had his front end torn up after another competitor - suffering damage - found

itself in his way. Claridge could not get his car to fire up for the start and Garlick was travelling along nicely in the top part of the field before his car suffered damage. Dale Smith controlled the race from the front and Scott Angus, in a new car he put together for the family race team, showed his talent moving up behind Smith. Jack Brennan made early outside passes in turn two that elevated him into the top group of racers early in the race and then changed his line to protect his gains. Smith motored on to victory ahead of Angus, Brennan, Jamie Paull and Brendan Miller who had made some ground recovering to finish in the top five. In the Victorian Junior Standard Saloon series, opening round of the year, Harry Cecil, Zac Barwise, Nathan Miles and Beau Stuchbery won the four heat races between them before Cecil and Stuchbery sprinted away as the lead drivers carved their way through the field with many exciting developing drivers in tow. Towards the end of the race young Breanna Walker crashed into the front straight wall whilst in fourth causing a red-light situation and the declaration of the race. Cecil the winner from Stuchbery, Barwise, Cooper Joynson and Jackie-Ann Angus. Completing all the competition on race day was the Ladies Standard Saloons. Rebecca Glassborow with one win and Maddison Miles with two wins had the best of the qualifying results. Miles, unfortunately due to damage, could not finish the final and Glassborow picked up her second final victory of the year with Danielle Solly, Jemima Borkowski and Trish Meers the finishers. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

SPORT

Lions claw into contention By David Nagel Pakenham’s resurgence in the West Gippsland Cricket Association (WGCA) Premier Division reached an important milestone on Saturday with the Lions storming back into the top four for the first time this season. A perennial powerhouse of the WGCA for several years now, the Lions have squared the ledger after a zero-three start to proceedings. A bolstered middle order, and the return to form of some proven big-game performers, would appear to have the Lions well placed to make an assault on this year’s title. Yes, their three wins have come against three of the four teams that currently sit outside the top four, but it’s the way the Lions are winning – and the confidence being built – that suggests their form is legitimate and likely to stand up under pressure. Pakenham (6/232) was tested early by Carlisle Park (160) on Saturday. Their two big guns, Chris Smith (0) and skipper Dale Tormey (4) were back in the sheds with just 13 runs on the board, a delicate position that would have caused heart flutters during the Lions’ early-season losing streak. But reliable performers Rob Elston (22) and Jason Williams (33) – two players that have played crucial roles in the Lions return to form – got things back on track with a 52-run stand that put the game on a level footing. But the Vikings could still sense some vulnerability, with Rob Fuller (2/38) removing both Elston and Williams – both caught by Brendan McCarthy – to leave the game once again in the balance at 4/77. The Lions are now in a much better position to deal with these sorts of challenges, with the return to form of Troy McDermott (65) – and return to the crease of a rejuvenated Zac Chaplin (60) – providing a much healthier and dangerous look through the middle order.

Luke McMaster had a day out Kooweerup, taking 3/24 to back up his earlier innings of 86. 264764 Picture: ROB CAREW McDermott cracked five fours and a six, and Chaplin five boundaries and two maximums, in a prolific 119-run stand that finally gave the Lions the upper hand. McDermott was in a seriously aggressive mood – scoring at better than a run-a-ball off his 56 deliveries faced, while Chaplin was only slightly more circumspect…with his 60 coming off 61! With the Vikings’ back now broken it was left to the power-hitting of Sean Gramc (24 not out) to put the icing on the cake.

The Lions perfect blue-print for white-ball cricket includes a late-Gramc surge…and he delivered perfectly with two towering sixes being smashed from his 18 balls at the crease. Fuller and Ethan Davies (3/32) stuck to their guns for the winless Vikings – who were always going to be challenged in reply. Ravi Kodithuwakku (12) and Dave Nutting (30) combined for a 40-run opening stand, but when both were removed by Tom Brennan (2/31) the Lions had gained complete ascendency.

Kasun Balasuriya (66) held the Vikings together through the middle order, but consistent bowling from the likes of Brennan, James Close (3/20), Williams (2/14) and Marcus Martini (2/27) saw the Lions cruise to a 72-run victory. Due to the reverse draw, the Lions and Vikings will reconvene this week for another important encounter – this time on the Lions’ home ground at Toomuc Reserve. In other Premier Division games, Kooweerup (6/215) won the battle of the two top teams in the competition with Luke McMaster leading the way with a terrific all-round performance against Tooradin (179). McMaster (86) and Videsh Dassanayake (40) held the Demons batting innings together, before the talented all-rounder claimed 3/24 – joining forces with off-spinner Matt Bright (3/31) – to guide the still undefeated visitors to victory. A sublime knock from Bradey Welsh (97 not out) propelled reigning premier Cardinia (3/167) to a hard-fought victory over Clyde (7/163). The Bulls’ coach came to the wicket with his team in trouble at 2/11, but combined with his brother Matt (43 not out) to snuff out any chance of a Cougars victory. And Cranbourne Meadows (6/220) has prevailed in one of the matches of the season against Merinda Park (9/214). Rebels’ opener Karanvir Singh (89) got the ball rolling with skipper Sunny Paul (47) and mid-order batters Pardeep Singh (30) and Harkamal Khokhar (22) joining in the party. Panthers’ openers Cambell Bryan (36) and Daniel McCalman (27) got the chase off to a solid start, with Sasindu Perera (58 not out) chiming in with a half century. But the sixth-placed Rebels held on for a well-deserved victory.

‘Rotten’ wins Warragul Cup By Peter Quilty Pearcedale prodigy Kayla Cottrell, 19, pulled off another training triumph when NSW import Robbie Rotten won Friday night’s Group 2 SEN Track Warragul Cup final (460m). A giveaway greyhound, Robbie Rotten – once a “problem child” – showed his rivals a clean pair of paws to land a $47,000 first prize. Owned by Deon Hanson, Robbie Rotten ($7.20) exploded from the ‘yellow’ trap (Box 5) and led from go to whoa in defeating G1 Melbourne Cup third placegetter Kinson Bale ($9.60) by three lengths with rising star Hamillson ($6.60) a further head away third in a slick 25.55sec. It was Robbie Rotten’s 14th win from 29 starts, including four wins in a row and eight of his past 10, and his stakes catapulted to $85,240. “He might be the next big thing,” said RSN’s race caller Kyle Galley as Robbie Rotten crossed the line. And Corey Smith, who co-hosted the Cup presentation on GRV’s Watchdog website, said. “If you were buying shares in a greyhound trainer, Kayla Cottrell would be one of them.” Cottrell was delighted with the performance of her dog…a former rogue now turned angel!. “He (Robbie Rotten) is an older dog – he’s over three – but as a pup he wouldn’t go at all and his owner Deon (Hanson) got him as a ‘giveaway’,” Cottrell said. “He’s from a very good litter, which also includes More Sauce (runner-up G2 Black Top and G2 Maitland Cup), but he was the problem child. “Not anymore!” Cottrell didn’t know Hanson at all, but one night she got a message on Facebook, saying he’d been following her career so far and thought ‘Robbie’ might benefit from a change of scenery and that he’d love to have a dog racing in Victoria. “He’s a grouse kennel dog, we didn’t rush him, just let him settle in and gave him a look around the tracks and he’s going super,” Cottrell added. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

Trainer Kayla Cottrell celebrates with Robbie Rotten after taking out the Warragul Cup on Friday night. Cottrell, who will turn 20 in April, became Victoria’s youngest ever G1-winning trainer when Fernando Cazz won the G1 Rookie Rebel last February. In another highlight at Warragul on Friday night, Brother Bearing took out the $10,000 winner-take-all Cup Night Match Race (460m). Leading all the way, Brother Bearing ($1.10F) accounted for Xavien Bale ($3.70) by three lengths in 25.70sec. It was his 11th win from 21 starts, including six of his past seven. He’s now three from four over Warragul’s sprint trip and has won $38,865. Trained at Devon Meadows by Garry Selkrig, Brother Bearing finished third (beaten 0.73 lengths) to Robbie Rotten (25.59sec) in a Cup heat last week. Ironically, the longest-priced Warragul Cup winner in the past decade is the Selkrig-trained Stagger ($11.40) in 2012. And the race record (25.34sec) belongs to To The Galo’s, also trained by Selkrig, in 2016. It was also a new track record at the time. Selkrig also finished third with Peter Galo (47 wins from 82 starts) in the 2020 Warragul Cup.

Cardinia Waters bowlers celebrate their special ‘eight’ score during their Pennant game against Chelsea on Saturday. From left, Jill Naylor, Ray Naylor, Keith Lewis and Bill Tippelt. 264893 Picture: SUPPLIED

Awesome eight reward for fired-up fabulous four A normal home and away game of lawn bowls turned into a special event last Saturday when one rink of four Cardinia Waters bowlers scored a perfect end of eight shots up. This result happens when all four bowlers get their bowls closer to the jack than their opponents. Playing against Chelsea the village four of Keith Lewis (skip), Ray and Jill Naylor and Bill Tippelt had a splendid day winning the game 40-5 as well as scoring the perfect score, ironically on end eight. A winning score of 35 shots is unusual in Pennant bowls, and the scorecard showed just how emphatic the win was. Keith’s rink won 11 of the first 12 ends and held a commanding lead of 30-3 after 13 of the 21 ends were played. As well as the eight, they also scored one five and two fours. At the conclusion of the

game, the Cardinia Waters rink had won 17 ends to their opponents four. Indeed, a great day in the history of this small club. At the end of the season the four players will receive a Bowls Victoria hat pin as a memento of the occasion. Ironically whilst Keith’s rink was scoring at will, on another rink Cardinia Waters dropped an eight, but this rink recovered to eventually beat their opponents by nine shots. Cardinia Waters Bowls Club plays on their home green in the Cardinia Waters Retirement Village on Racecourse Road, Pakenham. The players must be residents in the village to represent their club. They field two Saturday and two Tuesday teams in the Victorian Metropolitan Competition. - John Moore Thursday, 20 January, 2022

STAR NEWS 23

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’s has developed providing a quality schooling experience, developing

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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.

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Thursday, 20 January, 2022

St Clare’s Primary School Oﬃcer Oﬃcer 3809 Phone 03 5940 6777 pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au