PAKENHAM OFFICER
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Thursday, 9 February, 2023
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Woodchop competition axed
New playground space opens
Officer girls flying high
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SPORT
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Prizes for young readers
Road fix dispute
Low Dose CT, Digital X-ray, Comprehensive Ultrasound, Dental X-ray, Dexa or Bone Densitometry, Echocardiogram
The storm rolls across Officer.
Picture: DANIEL JAMES AERIAL ART
Stunning storm captured Daniel James, a local hobbyist aerial photographer, has captured stunning images of a storm across Officer last week. More inside on page 4
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Federal MPs have continued to slam the $146m funding cut which would have gone toward sealing 187km of dirt roads in the Dandenong Ranges. The former Coalition Government committed $300m to help the Cardinia and Yarra Ranges Councils seal roads in the hills, but it was confirmed earlier this year that $146.5m of that funding had been slashed. Opposition MPs have claimed it comes as part of $10b in cuts to infrastructure, with the funds redirected to the Victorian Government’s Suburban Rail Loop project. Shadow Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development, Senator Bridget McKenzie said Dandenong Ranges residents and businesses were paying the price for the Federal Government’s deal to deliver $2b to the Suburban Rail Loop project ahead of November’s State Election. However, a spokesperson for the Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said it was not true that previously secured funding for the sealing roads project was redirected to the Suburban Rail Loop. In the Federal Government’s October budget, $146.5m of funding was cut from the sealing roads project for those elements where formal contracts had not been signed. “The Australian Government had a commitment with local community members to seal their roads and that commitment should be honoured,” Senator McKenzie said.
“This is not like many of Labor’s other infrastructure cuts where they sat down with the states and territories to negotiate cuts and delays to projects involving state assets. “This innovative program was a partnership agreed between the Commonwealth and local landholders and the Cardinia and Yarra Ranges Councils. “Families have put their own money on the table to partner in sealing these roads and it is cruel for Labor to take the money off the table and walk away from the problem. “We know the Prime Minister took the razor to Victorian infrastructure projects to pay for Dan Andrew’s suburban rail loop, but money for local roads should not have been caught up in that partisan, internal Labor Party deal.” Federal La Trobe MP Jason Wood said the funding cut was another cost of living hit to families in the La Trobe electorate who will be left to pay a higher cost to seal local roads at a time when household bills keep going up. “Unsealed roads need extensive maintenance to keep them safe, grading and fixing potholes, as well as use of dust suppressant, all of which has to come from council rates paid by landholders,” he said. “This important project would have helped reduce the burden on ratepayers to constantly maintain the roads in a car-worthy condition.” Federal Casey MP Aaron Violi said sealing these local roads was important for the safety of the community. Continued page 3
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By Eleanor Wilson and Shelby Brooks
NEWS
Read books and win prizes Casey Cardinia Libraries are celebrating a successful summer of reading with their Big Summer Read Wrap Party. A statewide reading program, The Big Summer Read campaign encourages young ones to read and log at least 10 books, with a number of prizes on offer for the most avid readers. Casey Cardinia Libraries celebrated 1196 new children joining the Big Summer Read this year, which is over double the number of sign-ups as last year. Bunjil Place Library will host a celebration event on Saturday 11 February from 10.30am to 12.30pm, where local kids who participated in the program can enjoy a morning of magic, fun and prizes, featuring a performance by magician Tim Credible. Please book a ticket for each child and adult attending at events.ccl.vic.gov.au/ event?id=10373 Writing The Thursday Writing Group at Bunjil Place will be held on 9 February, 2 March and 30 March, from 10am to 12pm, at Bunjil Place. It is a writing group for adults at any stage in their writing journey. Come and share your work with others and receive and give feedback in a supportive environment. If you’re new to attending this group please make contact first by emailing information@ cclc.vic.gov.au (subject heading Thursday Writing Group). They’ll be in contact with you before the session. Bring paper and pen or laptop to write with and BYO beverage. Casey Cardinia Libraries are celebrating their Big Summer Read program with a morning of celebrations on Saturday 11 February. Picture: SUPPLIED
G R RATIN E G N A D FIRE TODAY
OW CTION N TAKE A
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Plan. Act. Survive. Go to emergency.vic.gov.au
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Thursday, 9 February, 2023
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NEWS
Woodchop contest axed By Eleanor Wilson The 2023 Berwick Show is the latest victim of a court order limiting timber harvesting, announcing it will not hold its popular wood chopping competition when the show returns to Akoonah Park later this month. The future of competitive wood chopping is currently hanging in the balance across the state, after a November court ruling inhibited timber harvesting in areas managed by VicForests in order to protect endangered gliders. The court action is causing a shortage of log supply to the Victoria Axemen’s Council, which provides Alpine Ash Wood to agricultural shows across the state. Berwick Show past president and co-chair of the Berwick Show wood chopping competition, Andy Fyfe, said a subsidiary of the Axemen’s council informed him they did not have enough log supply to service the historic competition. Mr Fyfe said the cancellation will put a “big hole” in this year’s Berwick Show, which is putting on its first public show since 2020. “A lot of people decide to come down to the show on the Sunday for the wood chopping, it’s a great spectator sport and the axemen put on a great show,” he said. “For the axemen themselves, they start in their childhood learning to wield axes and chop wood…they dedicate their lives to the sport. “There’s a lot of different clubs and associations around Australia and there are axemen that come from around the world for the sport, so we’re missing out on all of that. “Hopefully there’s a positive way out of the situation, whatever the solution is.” Berwick MP Brad Battin said he was “extremely disappointed” to hear about the axing of the event, which has a 40-year history at the Berwick Show. “It’s been a stable part of the show well and truly before I remember… to see the next generation miss out on that is quite devastating because it’s one of those elements that
The wood chopping competition has been a fortified attraction at the Berwick Show for decades, shown here in 2011. 60908 brings agriculture and regional life to the city,” Mr Battin said. “I’d love to see [wood chopping] return and that includes calling on courts and government to ensure we have a sustainable timber industry into the future.” In a statement, a VicForests spokesperson said it is not currently conducting any timber harvesting operations in any Forest Manage-
ment Areas across Victoria. “VicForests’ ability to harvest has been impacted by a court decision preventing timber harvesting operations unless new surveys are done that comply with the court’s order,” the spokesperson said. “As a result, VicForests has paused all timber harvesting operations and has commissioned experts to develop a new survey meth-
od to comply with the court’s orders. “The timber shortage across Victoria will continue to impact availability of logs. VicForests will seek to meet its contracted obligations according to the agreements once harvest operations resume.” VicForests has appealed the court decision with the matter to be addressed in court in late March.
Toilet makeover coming for popular Pakenham reserve
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Thursday, 9 February, 2023
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12452305-LN26-20
From page 1 “Residents have raised concerns about past incidents on these roads and the opportunity for a safer, sealed road in the Dandenong Ranges to support access for emergency vehicles in the event of bushfire or disaster,” he said. Senator McKenzie said the government’s public comments exposed political nature of the decision to cut funding to this road sealing initiative. “The Albanese Government should be ashamed of calling this program a ‘special carve-out’ for ‘marginal electorates’ when most inner city Labor MPs have never experienced dirt roads,” she said. “The Coalition was funding road upgrades in every electorate across the nation with a $120b nationwide infrastructure investment pipeline and a commitment of $35.5b to Victorian road and rail projects since 2013. “The communities of the Cardinia and Yarra Ranges Councils were just benefiting from a fair share of federal funding and the government should restore this funding in the next budget.”
The current toilets at PB Ronald Reserve.
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Road dispute
“The new toilets will be a great facility for locals and visitors alike. It will bring the toilets up to current standards, and we’ll also include an accessible path of travel to the toilets from the existing car park. “We’re seeking community feedback on exterior design of the toilets before plans are finalised and construction starts,” she said. The new toilets will be delivered by the council and funded by the Victorian Government’s Growing Suburbs Fund. Feedback closes 5pm Friday 17 February 2023. For more information, visit the council’s Creating Cardinia online engagement platform at cardinia.vic.gov.au/haveyoursay
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Cardinia Shire Council is seeking feedback on the exterior façade design of new public toilets at PB Ronald Reserve, Pakenham. As part of the PB Ronald Reserve Masterplan, the council will replace the existing amenities. The new amenities will include two, gender neutral accessible cubicles. Community members are invited to provide feedback on options for the toilets’ exterior design. Cardinia Shire’s Henty Ward councillor Carol Ryan said the façade options have been selected to complement the surrounding environment.
STAR NEWS 3
NEWS
Books for students in need In celebration of Library Lovers Day on 14 February, Casey Cardinia Libraries are seeking book donations to support a literary supply program in Papua New Guinea. The libraries are seeking donations of brand-new books for primary school aged students and pre-school children for the Kimbe Assistance Project, which sends books and supplies to people in Kimbe, Papua New Guinea. Since 2010, the project has facilitated the donation of more than 8500 boxes of books, school furniture and equipment, tables, wheelchairs, walking frames and other hospital equipment. The project has also seen the installation of solar-powered lighting at two remote health clinics and donated 10 additional portable solar lighting kits. Casey Cardinia Libraries chief executive officer Beth Luppino said she is confident the libraries community will come together to support the cause. “The Kimbe Assistance Project helps kids in Papua New Guinea get the resources they need to learn and get an education; we are proud to support this project and any donation big or small will go a long way,” she said. “Book donations can be left at any of our five libraries, donations must be brand-new, and if you are stuck for ideas you can find suggestions on our website.” Suggested items for donation include: Children’s Library Books Preschool to Year 6 including picture books and board books, readers and children’s novels. Non-fiction Prep to Year 12. Student dictionaries and atlases. Student Bibles. Disability aids: (Braille, Auslan, Dyslexic materials, etc).
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Courtney displays some of the donations ready for the Kimbe Assistance Project.
· Textbooks – Prep to Year 12 (no LOTE please). · Secondary college tech books on home economics, hospitality, business studies –
computers, wood, metal, electronics, auto, etc. Donations are open between Wednesday 1
Picture: SUPPLIED February and Friday 17 February, 2023. For more information, head to cclc.vic.gov. au/kimbe
Up high for local storm photography
The calm after the storm.
Pictures: DANIEL JAMES AERIAL ART
The storm approaches.
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An Officer hobbyist aerial photographer has captured stunning images of Friday 3 February’s storm. Daniel James has been honing his skills for a few years. “I enjoy capturing weather, sunset and sunrise images as well as landscapes,” he said. “These images were taken on Friday at about 8.20pm over D’Angelos as a storm was rolling through. “It was a particular interesting storm as the sun was setting as a large rain cloud passed through creating the rainbow.”
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Thursday, 9 February, 2023
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NEWS
Hospitals under pressure By Cam Lucadou-Wells Monash Health emergency departments have been among the most “log-jammed” in Australia, according to an Australian Medical Association report card. During 2021-’22, just 20 per cent of category 2 ‘emergency’ patients at Monash Medical Centre were seen within the recommended 10 minutes. This was equal worst in Australia. At Casey Hospital, only 23 per cent were seen within the threshold time, and at Dandenong Hospital just 35 per cent. They were respectively second-worst and third-worst in Victoria. However, at all three hospitals, 100 per cent of category 1 ‘resuscitation’ patients were seen immediately. The 2021-‘22 reporting period coincided with several waves of the Covid pandemic. A Monash Health spokesperson said its hospitals experienced more presentations and need for emergency care during Covid’s “peak period”. “All patients who attend our emergency department are seen in order of clinical urgency. The most seriously sick or injured patients will always be cared for first. “We continue to do everything possible to limit wait times in our hospitals and are confident that this work will see improvement over time.” AMA federal president Steve Robson called for an “urgent” funding injection to fix a health system under “enormous strain”, including a pay-for-performance funding model for hospitals. “We have nurses, doctors, and healthcare workers who are desperate to provide care for Australians, but they need the resourcing to do that. “They’re stories of suffering and pain of
Dandenong Hospital is in line for a $295 million upgrade. 296906
Casey Hospital ranked second-worst in the state for treating category 2 ED patients within 10 minutes. 199744 people waiting for care, waiting for urgent emergency department care, surgery and treatments around the country.” Opposition health spokesperson Georgie
Crozier said Victoria spent less per person on public hospitals and less healthcare staff than other state and territory, except South Australia. The proportion of Victorian emergency
patients seen on time was below the national average. “Before Covid, Victoria’s health system was struggling, and since then the situation has only got worse,” Ms Crozier said. “Too many Victorians continue to be let down by a failed system.” Prior to last year’s election, the State Government pledged up to $295 million to upgrade Dandenong Hospital including the emergency department and a new intensive care ward. A government spokesperson said since launching its $12 billion Pandemic Repair Plan in April, it had hired and trained more than 4500 health care workers. To take the strain off emergency departments, the Government funded GP respiratory clinics and Priority Primary Care Centres, as well as increased the Virtual ED and Better at Home programs, they said. “We’re rebuilding our health system to be better than it was before – that’s why we’re delivering the $1.5 billion COVID Catch Up Plan to do more elective surgery now and into the future.”
Armed robber’s path to reform following guilty plea By Cam Lucadou-Wells A Hallam robber who held up a bottle-shop worker at knifepoint in the middle of the day has been spared jail. Katoa Samuel, 20, pleaded guilty to armed robbery and theft charges at the Victorian County Court. The masked Samuel stole between $200 and $300 from two cash registers during the 40-second robbery at BWS on Princes Highway in Hallam about noon on 10 November 2021. He asked the lone attendant for cash before brandishing what was described as a “slim” kitchen knife. Fifteen minutes later, police spotted Samuel walking on Cornwall Street with three stolen parcels. In a police interview, he denied committing the robbery despite featuring
in CCTV footage. He told police he found the stolen parcels in an alleyway behind a Coles supermarket and assumed they were being thrown out. During sentencing on 7 February, Judge Amanda Chambers said the “brazen” robbery in “broad daylight” must be denounced. She noted the prevalence of armed robberies on sole employees, who were seen as “easy targets”. The judge noted the New Zealand-born Samuel had no prior convictions. Since his arrest, he remained on good behaviour during more than 13 months on bail. The robbery occurred while Samuel’s mental health declined during Covid lockdowns and heavy cannabis use, Judge Chambers noted. But his offending wasn’t found to be linked to mental illness. Samuel had become increasingly withdrawn, isolating himself in his bed-
room and distancing from friends. In 2022, he was diagnosed with schizophrenia and medicated under a community treatment order. His mental health had since stabilised without signs of relapse. Judge Chambers noted the sentence would have greater focus on Samuel’s rehabilitation due to his young age. His rehabilitation prospects were “strong” with renewed interest in family activities, gym and casual work. Prosecution and defence lawyers agreed that a community corrections order was apt punishment. Judge Chambers said it was important that the CCO dealt with Samuel’s cannabis abuse, so to minimalise his risk of relapse.Samuel was sentenced to an 18-month CCO, including 140 hours of community work as well as drug and mental health treatment.
A man pleaded guilty to armed robbery and theft charges at the Victorian County Court.
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Thursday, 9 February, 2023
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STAR NEWS 5
NEWS
OPINION
Score a country footy, netball grant The State Government is supporting the growth of country football and netball with more grants to build new ovals and courts where they’re needed most. Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence today announced applications for the Country Football and Netball program. “Country football and netball clubs are the lifeblood of Victorian communities and we’re supporting them with the infrastructure they need to take on more players, host more events and draw bigger crowds - creating a real buzz in the community and boosting local economies,” Ms Spence said. Up to $2.5 million is available for rural, regional and outer metropolitan councils to apply for grants of up to $250,000 to deliver projects such as installing sports lighting, and building new or redeveloping pavilions to benefit their local clubs. Regional clubs impacted by the recent floods, or in communities experiencing socioeconomic disadvantage, strong population growth or other economic challenges are also strongly encouraged to approach their local councils to apply for program funding. Recent successful projects include $68,000 to Warrnambool City Council for lighting upgrades at the Dennington netball court, $197,000 to the City of Greater Geelong for the Anakie Reserve netball court upgrade, and $200,000 to Golden Plans Shire Council for the Linton oval reconstruction. The Country Football and Netball Program makes it easier for players, coaches, umpires, kids and club supporters to stay involved in the game and encourages communities to lead healthy and active lifestyles. The program is a partnership with the AFL, AFL Victoria and Netball Victoria and has invested more than $35 million across the state since it was launched in 2005. This year, maximum grant amounts have increased from the previous round of the program to ensure important infrastructure can continue to be delivered. The State Government has invested more than $1.6 billion in community sports infrastructure since 2014. Applications close on 27 March 2023. For more information about the program and to apply visit sport.vic.gov.au.
LENSCAPE
Cranbourne Meadows cricketers pack up for the day at Lawson Poole Reserve, Cranbourne. 318286
Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS
THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN Thumbs up Great day today to see an article about Camms Rd Fish and Chips in your papers :) thank you!!!!
Thumbs up To God’s blessings.
Thumbs down To indeterminate nectarines - too yellow to be a white nectarine and too white to be a yellow one.
Thumbs up Monash Pathology for a difficult bleed well done.
Thumbs up
Thumbs up
To the party bus.
To warmer weather this week.
Thumbs down To the Bright Moon Buddhist Temple in Springvale burning down. I was planning to take my sister-inlaw there on Thursday, so sad for the community.
Thumbs up To our horse Just Believe who won the Great Southern Star on Friday night. The richest race for trotters in Australia.
NEWS
Search for bird urn owner By Eleanor Wilson A local op shop is appealing to the public after an unlikely donation last week. Berwick Opportunity shop president Margaret Ruse said the shop received a small black and silver ceramic bird in a black velvet box two to three weeks ago. Initially thinking the bird was a knick knack, she took the item home to show her husband, who googled the item only to discover it was an urn, which could possibly contain ashes. “It’s only very small so we thought maybe someone died and the ashes were split up between family members or something,” Mrs Ruse said of the peculiar donation. “We thought maybe it’s come in accidentally, either from someone who has been cleaning out a house and forgotten about it, or perhaps a family member who didn’t know what it is. “It’s got nothing on it to suggest it is an urn,” she said. The op shop has since put a call out on Facebook to try to track down the urn’s rightful owner. “We hope to be able to find the person who has donated this by mistake, as it probably contains the ashes of a loved one,” the post read. 6 STAR NEWS
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Thursday, 9 February, 2023
“We’ve had some strange things in the shop before, but nothing quite like this…we just don’t know what to do with it,” Mrs Ruse said. “I’m just hoping someone will see the post and contact the shop, we’ve put a sign up in the shop about it as well.” Mrs Ruse said the opening to the urn is sealed with a sticker and she does not intend to open the urn to check its contents. She said nobody has come forward to claim the urn as of yet, and intends to keep it at the shop for one more week before passing it on to a local funeral director’s office who may be able to better assist. The urn is approximately 5cm in height and about 8cm in length.
The Berwick Op Shop is appealing to the public to find the owner of the bird urn. 318873 Picture: SHELBY BROOKS pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
Harassment ‘prevalent’ By Cam Lucadou-Wells Prevalent but too often unreported, sexual harassment in workplaces will be the focus of a free, confidential legal help service. South-East Monash Legal Service (SMLS) launched its Advocacy Against Sexual Harassment (AASH) program at Bunjil Place on 1 February. The service will help more employees such as Layla (not her real name) who was preyed upon by a manager at a small family-run business. After months of telling him to stop his unwanted touching and lewd comments, Layla felt she had no choice but to resign, legal practice director Korina Leoncio said. SMLS negotiated a compo payment for Layla from the “obstructive” and “unwilling” employer. “What was probably most striking … was the employer agreeing to undertake sexual harassment training and improve its processes.” AASH provides free, confidential legal advice, ongoing assistance and advocacy, Ms Leoncio said. “We aim to empower clients to make informed decisions … and stand with them through the process if they want to take it further.” The big hurdle was “getting clients through the door”, she said. “It seems that one of the last places a person would approach for help is a lawyer. Only some 4 per cent will come to seek a lawyer for advice.” Victoria’s Public Sector Gender Equality Commissioner Niki Vincent pointed to research showing 41 per cent of women and 26 per cent of men experienced sexual harassment in the workplace in the past five years. “It is an incredibly prevalent thing that occurs.” Yet, there was also “incredible” under-reporting. Just 17 per cent made a complaint. Males were the most common perpetrators (79 per cent). Research showed it was most likely to occur in male-dominated and rigidly hierarchical workforces. Most notably, the transport industry, police and emergency services as well as health services. Gender inequality underpinned sexual harassment as well as other forms of violence against women, Dr Vincent said. It was disproportionately inflicted on workers under 30, LGBTQIA+, Aboriginals and Tor-
SMLS legal practice director Korina Leoncio, Public Sector Gender Equality Commissioner Niki Vincent and SMLS executive director Kristen Wallwork. 317915 res Strait Islanders, workers with disabilities, migrants, temporary visa holders and Culturally and Linguistically Diverse backgrounds. She said many complainants were in insecure, precarious employment and did not understand their rights. “The vast majority of complaints came to me about sexual harassment after it was reported internally to their organisations and those complaints were handled ridiculously badly.” Victoria’s “world-leading” Gender Equality Act aimed to do something about sexual harassment, Dr Lindsay said. It would stand as a model to “create real change in driving gender equality”. “Goodness knows, we’ve been waiting far, far too long for that. I think a lot of us are pretty sick of all of the advocacy going nowhere or at a snail’s pace.” Under the Act, employers now had a “positive duty” to promote gender equality, and to undertake regular audits of its workplace. They must report to the Commissioner on their progress in implementing their gender equality action plans. The Commissioner’s website publishes gender audit data and action plans from 300 Victorian public sector workplaces including local councils. In its own survey data just 4 per cent of women and 3 per cent of men who experienced sexual harassment made a formal complaint. Dr Lindsay said more regular training was needed in workplaces, including bystander intervention training. “The way an organisation handles sexual harassment is crucial to seeing more people reporting.” AASH is funded for four years by the federal National Legal Assistance Partnership. Details: smls.com.au
Workers under-reporting By Cam Lucadou-Wells About 7 per cent of women employed by City of Casey have reportedly experienced sexual harassment at work, according to official audit data. Of them, only one in 20 submitted a formal complaint. The 2021 data is typical of the findings across Victoria’s public sector, which are published by the state’s Commission for Gender Equality in the Public Sector. The audit also shows 5 per cent of male employees at the council say they experienced sexual harassment. An “unknown” number of them submitted a formal complaint. About 11 per cent of women employees at Cardinia Shire Council reportedly experienced sexual harassment, as well as 3 per cent of men. An “unknown” number submitted formal complaints. At Greater Dandenong Council, 7 per cent of women employees and 4 per cent of men say they experienced sexual harassment. Again, the number of formal complaints was “unknown”. The Gender Equality Commission re-
ported that across Victoria’s public sector, only 4 per cent of women and 3 per cent of men who experienced sexual harassment at work made a formal complaint. “Barriers to formal reporting included the belief that the incident was not serious enough, or that the individual would experience backlash or negative impact on their career as a result of making a report.” At City of Casey, there was a median pay gap between men and women. Women were paid 3.7 per cent less base salary and 19.5 per cent less in total remuneration. Greater Dandenong female workers were reportedly paid 10.5 per cent more salary than men, but 4.6 per cent less for median total remuneration. Women employees at Cardinia Shire were paid 11.4 per cent less base salary and total remuneration. Across the Victorian public sector, the median total remuneration pay gap was 8.1 per cent. Women made up 72 per cent of Casey’s workforce – higher than the local government average of 63 per cent. They represented 83 per cent of parttime workers at Casey. 12588250-KJ06-23
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Thursday, 9 February, 2023
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STAR NEWS 7
THE LOWDOWN Q&A
with Star News Group journalist Tanya Faulkner
Tell us a fun fact about yourself! I don’t like not wearing socks! A lot of my friends think it’s strange, but I don’t like having my toes out - unless I’m wearing heels then it’s alright.
What are you currently listening to/watching or reading? I’m currently reading Jordan B. Peterson’s 12 Rules for Life and I always listen to a few podcasts - top three would be Jay Shetty’s On Purpose Podcast, The Bikini and The Brain with Adam Bonilla and Ashley Kaltwasser, and The One Up Project by Sarah Kelsey.
What are you most passionate about? I am an upcoming bodybuilder for WBFF here in Australia so I’m very passionate about my fitness, and am also studying to become a personal trainer and helping other people create sustainable and healthier lifestyles in and out of the gym. What do you love about bodybuilding? I love the community and personal development that comes with it - the industry receives a lot of stigma from the outside, but when you’re in it, everyone is just so supportive and uplifting. Some of the skills you pick up around discipline, time management, and mental strength both in and out of the gym have been some of the most life-changing values that I will carry with me through life. What would your last meal be? A good, homemade, mac and cheese for sure! Lots of bacon, lots of cheese - just give me the carbs! What was your most memorable moment? I was on a leadership course a couple of years ago, and part of that was to tackle a high-ropes course and we went caving at Waitomo in New Zealand. My caving group went into the middle of a cave, all sat on a rock in the pitch black surrounded by glow worms, and one of the girls sang a very beautiful Maori waiata (song) that was just very powerful in the moment. It was very humbling and emotional and that memory has stuck with me since.
How would you describe your fashion sense? Comfortable and active, before I came in as a journalist with Star News Group I basically was always in activewear or something comfortable. In the office I’d say it’s quite classic, high waisted work pants and a comfy tee (I definitely need an office attire upgrade!). Tanya Faulkner is Star News Group’s newest journalist. She is passionate about fitness. Picture: SUPPLIED What was your favourite subject in school? I have to say the social sciences were right up my alley. I went to university to do a BA in International Relations and Media, and have always been interested in how foreign politics and intercountry relations work. What event, past or present, would you like to witness? I actually would have loved to witness Nelson Mandella’s “I have a dream” speech because it’s a staple in global history and was one of the more interesting topics I studied at university. Which six dinner guests, dead or alive, would you invite to dinner? Have to have Chris Hemsworth, Jay Shetty, my best friends Abby and Dominic from home, my coach Casey Glase and I’d have to add my Granddad as well.
Have you had a pet that has made an impact on your life? I have, my only pet that I’ve ever had was my cat Merlin. I accidentally ended up adopting him in my later university days, and he was my number one buddy for almost four years before I moved to Pakenham. I keep a polaroid of him in my wallet from the day he caught his first bird. If you had to compete on MasterChef, what dish would you cook? I am a sucker for a fancy meal and getting creative, however, I think I’d go for a pan-fried salmon with creamy mashed potatoes and some greens on the side with a nice buttery sauce. What is your dream holiday destination? Greece for sure, I have a bad obsession with Mamma Mia and would love to visit the Mediterranean and see some of the film sites (maybe even remake a few of the dance scenes).
THREE … ways to support your community
1
Markets During spring and summer, it can feel like there’s a market on almost every weekend in the district. These markets provide the perfect opportunity to support local producers and farmers.
2
Volunteer If you’ve got some spare time up your sleeve, why not join a volunteer group? Local CFA brigades are always looking for new members. Visit cfa.vic.gov. au/volunteer-careers to find your nearest station.
3
Shop local It’s one of the simplest ways to ensure the money you earn stays in the local economy. So, park your car and go for a walk along your town’s main street to see what’s on offer. On the weekend, enjoy a smashed avocado on toast with a coffee at one of the many local cafes.
Established homes
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12589542-JW06-23
CARDINIA WATERS VILLAGE
36–40 Racecourse Rd Pakenham cardiniawaters.com.au
For more information about our range of retirement communities, visit: rcavillages.com.au 8 STAR NEWS
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Thursday, 9 February, 2023
pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
The team of students behind the project. Top row, Chantelle and Joseph; front row, Jared, Lourdes, Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS Harmony and Aziz. 318084
Lourdes and Aziz play on the brand-new spider web. 318084
Students’ playground fun By Eleanor Wilson Students at St Therese’s Primary School in Cranbourne North welcomed the new school year with a fresh playground space to enjoy. Staff and students collaborated on the design for the new playground, which was funded with money from the school’s budget. Deputy principal Michelle Hinds said the
decision to replace the existing playground grew out of a couple of needs. “The previous playground had been there for over 20 years so it looked very tired, it needed a good paint…it was just time for an upgrade,” Mrs Hinds said. “But rather than staff taking over and creating a design we got the children involved to
really promote that student voice,” Mrs Hinds said. Students Harmony, Joseph, Jared, Chantelle, Lourdes, Aziz and past Grade 6 students Justine, Delvin and Ekant made up the student team who helped the playground come to life, with teacher Maddy Foster assisting Mrs Hinds in facilitating the project.
The new playground features a double slide, a spider web, some balance beams and orbs, a game of noughts and crosses blocks, a swirl bar and a monkey bar. The school’s motto “do all that you do with love”, quote attributed to Saint Therese of Lisieux, is proudly etched into the playground as a reminder of the school’s values for students.
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pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
Thursday, 9 February, 2023
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STAR NEWS 9
FOCUS ON … VALENTINE’S DAY
Romantic Archie’s Join us at Archie’s Farm Restaurant & Bar to enjoy a romantic night of delicious food and beverages with your loved one this Valentine’s Day, Tuesday, 14 February, 2023. Our delicious Valentine’s Four-course menu has been created by our Executive Chef using locally sourced produce and the finest ingredients for the perfect date night. Starting with a complimentary glass of Australian sparkling wine, highlights from the menu include delectable canapes on arrival, with Swimmer crab cakes, stuffed zucchini flowers and Coquille St. Jacques au gratin. Entree and main courses comprise of your choice from our seasonal
and bespoke options designed especially for our Valentine’s diners. Finish your evening of love with our chef’s favourite desserts, including dark chocolate cake, honey and yoghurt cheesecake and vanilla crème brulee. Beautifully designed dining space with a welcoming ambiance, Archie’s Farm Restaurant & Bar is the ideal venue to celebrate Valentine’s Day this year. Whether you are celebrating with friends or spending time with loved ones, Archie’s Valentine’s Menu is the perfect complement to your day. Our dedicated chefs can tailor the menu for guests requiring most dietary requirements. Please advise of any dietary
requirements at the time of booking.Additionally, Archie’s Farm will be offering our à la carte menu for those looking to indulge in the restaurant’s brand new seasonal menu. Address: Archie’s Farm Restaurant & Bar Hyatt Place Melbourne Caribbean Park 38 Dalmore Drive, Scoresby, VIC 3179 Phone: 4137 1234 or visit hyattplacemelbournecaribbeanpark.com Hours: 6pm - 9pm Price: $115 per person Bookings are essential to avoid disappointment.
With Valentine’s Day on the horizon, Leonie from The Chocolate Shop Pakenham is ramping up on gift ideas.
Delicious gifts and hampers of love The Chocolate Shop Pakenham, in the heart of Main Street, has been satisfying sweet-toothed locals for more than 19 years. Some of her most popular delivery items are chocolate and lolly hampers, tailor-made for the recipient. Customers can ring and place a custom order or choose from a pre-made selection available in store. Perfect for any occasion, these hampers can even be topped up with a bottle of their favourite drink, or a cuddle soft toy to convey your best wishes. Delivery is available locally or surrounding areas, and is free for orders over $25. And, with an ever-changing range, there’s always a reason to visit in-person or browse on Facebook - as if you need an excuse! Those with dietary requirements aren’t left out: organic, lactose free, gluten free, vegan and sugar free options are also on the shelves. The Chocolate Shop Pakenham is located at 112 Main Street Pakenham and is open Monday-Friday 10.30am-5.30pm; Saturday, 10.30am-4pm and open Sunday, 12 February, 10.30am-4pm. To order a hamper, visit their Facebook page or call 5941 7165.
valentine’s day dinner.
Call in and see Leonie at the Chocolate Shop for all your Valentines Day gifts. They have a huge selection of wonderful goodies for all your Valentines and to suit all budgets. You will be amazed at the variety and the new stock instore.
112 Main Street, Pakenham 3810
Ph (03) 5941 7165 www.facebook.com/ thechocolateshoppakenham 12588976-AV05-23
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SPOIL YOUR LOVED ONE WiTH A THOUGHTULLY SOURCED, REGIONALLY INSPIRED dining EXPERIENCE. Unwind in the elegant surrounds of Archie’s Farm Restaurant & Bar and enjoy local food and wine hosted in a warm neighbourhood restaurant.
The ultimate romantic settting for you and your loved one on Valentines day
Four-course set menu including a glass of sparkling wine on arrival Tuesday 14th February 6pm - 9pm $115 per person BOOKINGS ARE ESSENTIAL
T: (03) 4137 1234 E: caribbeanpark.archies@hyatt.com 000 000 0000
Hyatt Place Melbourne Caribbean Park and Hyatt Place 38 Dalmore Drive, Scoresby VIC 3179
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FOR BOOKINGS CALL: (03) 9768 9609 10 Brunt Rd, Beaconsfield VIC 3807 www.doppiozerobeaconsfield.com.au
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10 STAR NEWS
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Thursday, 9 February, 2023
pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
EDUCATION, ENROLMENTS AND OPEN DAYS
St James Primary School is an unique small semi-rural school.
Passionate educators The school is delighted to see the incredible richness its families bring to the St Patrick’s community.
St James Primary School is a close knit community where families know and support each other, all children know and include each other and every teacher knows every child. This is unique and a hallmark of small semi-rural school. Catholic identity is at the heart of all interactions and the ethos of the school, however, this does not exclude other faiths and denominations. The school welcomes diversity and encourages students and their families to celebrate their faith and culture, enriching the school in doing so. The Religious Education Curriculum is made relevant to the lives of the students so that they may understand and share the Good
News of the Gospel. There is a strong focus on partnering with teachers and parents to ensure the best possible outcomes for their child, spiritually, academically and socially. “Without these partnerships with parents, who know their child best, school can just become a process rather than an essential and formative part of a child’s life. We never underestimate the trust parents place in us and consider it a deep honour to teach their most precious children.” Bec Kollaris, Principal said. School tours are available by appointment with enrolments available across all levels. For appointments please email office@stjamesnng.catholic.edu.au or call 5943 5700.
Diverse and wonderful The St Patrick’s team prides itself on the cultural diversity it has among its school community. St Patrick’s is host to large communities of families from Myanmar and South Sudanese communities. The school has also seen a rise in the addition of Sikh families which has been a wonderful addition. It has a group of South Sudanese ladies who come together regularly to participate in sewing and other craft-related activities. They produce some magnificent pieces that they donate back to the community. It has been delightful to see more interaction also from the school’s Myanmar community members. The barrier of language can always be an obstacle for any new people to the community, but they have made so many inroads as they learn and master the English language every day.
At St Patrick’s, the school has the assistance of both Myanmar and Sudanese Liaison officers, along with some of its dedicated education support officers, who work closely with these two communities in particular to ensure they receive the support they need in terms of communication with the school. They are assisted with enrolments for both Primary and Secondary schools, excursion, swimming programs, special events days such as Mother’s and Father’s Day, school assemblies and school closure days. The school is delighted to see the incredible richness its families bring to the St Patrick’s community, which continues to grow and thrive and enhance the wonderful diverse community. Please make time to visit St Patrick’s Primary School at 136 Princes Highway, Pakenham. Call 5943 9000.
St James Catholic School
Committed to your child’s academic, spiritual & emotional development Where every student is known, nurtured & respected.
SCHOOL TOURS AVAILABLE | 5942 5404 60 Nar Nar Goon Rd, Nar Nar Goon 12567231-MS37-22
We pride ourselves on being a Catholic, welcoming school where everyone is valued and respected. Our committed and professional staff provide a safe, caring environment where we aim to engender a love of learning in every student.
ENROLMENTS NOW OPEN FOR 2024 Ph: 5943 9000 or email office@stppakenham.catholic.edu.au to book a school tour 136 Princes Highway, Pakenham | www.stppakenham.catholic.edu.au | (03) 5943 9000 12584050-KJ04-23
pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
Thursday, 9 February, 2023
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STAR NEWS 11
EDUCATION, ENROLMENTS AND OPEN DAYS
Beginning of school year
Sacha at the start of a new year.
Jeffraj enjoys his first day.
Last Tuesday, the big day finally arrived for ninety new Foundation students. These new students began their first ever school day by walking the red carpet where they were greeted by Principal, Ms Helen Staindl who welcomed them to St Clare’s School with a special medal. The medal of St Clare, which came all the way from Assisi in Italy, is a reminder of our school’s Patron Saint. Once inside the beautiful learning spaces, students and families were greeted by four
very excited Foundation teachers. The teachers are looking forward to a great year and will work with the students and encourage all to do their best learning within a kind and welcoming environment. St Clare’s is a Catholic Primary School in Officer with close to six hundred students. Our core beliefs are built around the teachings of Jesus and specifically, the values of respect, optimism, courage, kindness and feeling safe.
Open Day
Twins - Alessio and Matteo and family.
Saturday 18th March 10am - 2pm
Student led tours Meet our dedicated staff Experience our caring environment Learn about our curriculum Music performances Food Technology tastings Science demonstrations & much more
Learn. Care. Achieve.
P: 5941 7544 E: enrolments@lakeside.vic.edu.au W: www.lakeside.vic.edu.au 2 Portobello Rd, Pakenham VIC 3810 12589348-FC06-23
12 STAR NEWS
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Thursday, 9 February, 2023
12589206-AA06-23
pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
Watch out for hot spots Melbourne vets are calling for pet owners to be on high alert when taking their dogs swimming this summer with hot spots spiking dramatically in the last few weeks. Hot spots on dogs, also known as moist dermatitis, is a painful condition where there is a break in the skin barrier which allows bacteria or parasites to cause infection. It is seen more commonly in animals with allergies but can also be seen when excessive moisture is trapped within the coat. Head of veterinary services at The Lost Dogs Home, Dr Jessica Wilde, said there was a 30 per cent increase in cases over the past month with more being reported every day. “We had several cases at Frank Samways Veterinary Clinic just on the one day last week, so it is becoming an increasing concern. It is an extremely painful condition for dogs that can be compared to excruciating sunburn on humans,” Dr Wilde said. “Dogs that are frequently wet from swimming, bathing, or inclement weather are more prone to developing hot spots due to the excess moisture held against the skin by their coats. “Dogs with thicker or longer coats can be more at risk than others as there is more space for the moisture to get trapped but it can affect any breed and we urge those with
a dog in the family to remain super vigilant in water.” Dr Wilde said there was no reason why your pooch shouldn’t continue swimming but to take extra precautions this summer like making sure your dog is completely dried after taking a plunge and treating any underlying conditions such as allergies or arthritis as this could also reduce recurrence of hot spots. “Many skin conditions have similar symptoms, so it is important to consult your veterinarian if you are concerned about your dog. Hot spots are typically well-defined areas of redness, swelling, and hair loss. “They can occur anywhere, but are most commonly seen on the head, limbs, and hips,” she said. “It’s also a good idea to dry your dog after coming back from a walk in the rain. We have seen a lot of wet weather in Melbourne lately which is probably also contributing to the increase we are seeing.”
Dog owners are being warned about rising cases in ‘hot spots’. Picture: UNSPLASH
Meet the Principal Helen Staindl
Meg Escalante
Helen Staindl, our Principal, was born and raised in Gippsland and has been a Principal in Stratford, Melbourne, Geelong and the founding Principal of St Clare’s Catholic Primary School in Officer 2015.
My name is Meg Escalante and I am the Principal of St Patrick’s Primary school in Pakenham. St Patrick’s is first and foremost a child safe school where all students are included and challenged to develop their talents to the fullest extent.
She has studied both internationally and locally and has Masters Degrees in Theology and Education as well as further degrees in Religious Education and Administration. Helen was a member of the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority Board for many years and has broad experience in the Catholic and Private sectors and with the International Baccalaureate Program.
In the spirit of St Patrick’s School, we are a Catholic community, working together as one to inspire faith filled, lifelong learners. As a Catholic School, we are called to teach the Catholic tradition, celebrate faith, promote educational excellence and to nurture the growth and wellbeing of all students. We believe that children learn best when they are happy and when the learning is relevant to their lives and to their stage of development and readiness. We live the values of Respect, Safety, Cooperation, Courage and Resilience. Our staff at St Patrick’s understand that students learn best when strong relationships and connections are established among those involved in the learning process. We know that learning involves risk-tasking and mistakes are seen as healthy and important steps as we strive for excellence, growth in knowledge and a continued acquisition of skills.
Helen has a deep understanding and awareness of student learning and wellbeing. As the Principal of St Clare’s, she has been responsible for establishing a vibrant learning culture at St Clare’s and ensuring that the needs of the students are at the forefront of the growth of the school. That is why education is her passion. St Clare’s is a Catholic School called to serve the local community, to teach the Catholic faith, to promote educational excellence and to nurture the growth and well-being of all students, families and staff. At St Clare’s our aim is to have each child reach their potential; to be a well-rounded individual within a supportive and caring learning environment.
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We look forward to another successful year of learning together as one!
ST CLARE’S CATHOLIC PRIMARY SCHOOL
ST.PATRICK’S PRIMARY SCHOOL
95 Majestic Drive OFFICER 3809 Phone 5940 6777 | enrolments@stclaresofficer.catholic.edu.au
136 Princes Hwy, Pakenham VIC 3810 Phone (03) 5943 9000 | stppakenham.catholic.edu.au
pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
Thursday, 9 February, 2023
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STAR NEWS 13
WHAT’S ON Gembrook Craft Group We are pleased to offer three workshops in February 2023. Macrame workshop – Saturday 18 February. Two sessions available, 10am-12pm or 1pm-3pm. We will be making a plant hanger. Come along and learn some basic knotting (we promise you won’t get tied in knots!). Help is on hand should you need it. Same hanger will be made at each workshop session. Crochet workshop – Friday 10 February, 10am -12pm. Dawn and Chris are confident you will be able to learn some basic techniques in the time. Spinning course - Starting on Friday 17 February 10am-12pm. This course runs for four weeks. Start dates are flexible. This a therapeutic and beneficial craft to learn. Bring your own spinning wheel and fleece if you have some or use one of our spinning wheels and fleece. All workshops are to be held at Gembrook Craft Cottage, 3 Redwood Road, Gembrook. Email secretary at gembrookcraftgroup@ gmail.com for further information and cost.
Tooradin Tractor Pull and Truck Show The Tooradin Tractor Pull and Truck Show has been an annual event since 1998 and has grown into a fabulous family day packed with lots of fun things to see and do.
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Rutter Park Reserve, South Gippsland Hwy, on Saturday 25 February 2023, 10am to 10pm.
Kids’ Art Workshops Our Kids’ Art Workshops are designed to give children up to the age of five the opportunity to be creative in a supportive and facilitated environment. The early childhood phase is a critical time for growth and skill development. These workshops will help to build motor skills, encourage creative play, and strengthen the bond between child and caregiver. Kids’ Art Workshops run from 10am to 12pm every Tuesday from 17 January to 28 March in the Waterfront Room at the Cardinia Cultural Centre.
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Cockatoo Ash Wednesday 40th anniversary Come join us on Sunday 12 February in commemoration of 40 years since the Ash Wednesday Bushfire. The event is being held by the CFA as a statewide memorial on the day. Our volunteer-run centre will be open for anyone who wishes to view our display free of charge. Any donations you care to make will be gratefully accepted. Sunday 12 February at 2 McBride Street, Cockatoo 2pm.
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to 7pm and line dancing from 7pm to 9pm. Bookings essential: trybooking.com/events/ landing?eid=1007194&
Upper Beaconsfield Village Festival The Upper Beaconsfield Village Festival is an annual community event held in February to celebrate our community in the wake of the devastating Ash Wednesday fires in 1983. The Tower Run commences at 8am from Charing Cross opposite the post office. You can register to participate. The festival will be held in the grounds around the Upper Beaconsfield Community Centre and Keith Ewenson Reserve 10-12 Salisbury Road, Upper Beaconsfield. Sunday 19 February 9am to 3pm.
·Line Dancing at Wilson Botanic Park
Line dancing is a very social and fun way to get active. Cheyenne on Queue’s Darren and John will look after you as you dive into the joyful experience of Line Dancing with or without a partner. This event is suitable for the entire family, the young and young-at-heart. No experience necessary, suited to all ages and abilities. Saturday 11 February, Wilson Botanic Park, 668 Princes Hwy, Berwick. BYO picnic 5pm
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Peter Rabbit
#CaseyGirlsCan: Bollywood Dance Sessions Get active and have some fun at our free Bollywood Dance sessions. Participants will learn four-to-five Bollywood songs and different dance moves, while connecting with other community members. From 11am to 12pm every Thursday from 19 January to 16 March at Indoor Leisure Complex, Building 5, 65 Berwick-Cranbourne Rd, Cranbourne East.
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Voices of Casey Voices of Casey is looking to recruit new members who love to sing. With mixed ability and experience, we aim to positively impact our community and participate in events. 2023 rehearsals commenced on 30 January at Fiddlers Green, 57 Gloucester Ave, Berwick. Go to voicesofcasey.org.au for more information.
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Summer Sessions at The Orchard at Montague Enjoy an afternoon of live music, drinks and food on the lawn at The Orchard at Montague, with a fantastic line-up of talented local musicians performing live on Sunday afternoons. There will be some outdoor seating and picnic rugs available, however, you are encouraged to bring your own so you don’t miss out. This is a free event. Sorry, no BYO food or drinks. Come down from 2-5pm every Sunday from 22 January to 26 February at 18 Horswood Road, Narre Warren North.
Berwick and District Show The Berwick Show will be held over 25-26 February at Akoonah Park, with both days ending in fireworks for the family! Come down for a range of activities for the family including agriculture and Horticulture shows and competitions, family and thrill rides, food trucks and market stalls, horse shows, arts and crafts, entertainment and much more! Tickets available from 1 February. Visit berwickshow.org.au for more information.
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Stirring trouble By Mitchell Clarke
Stirring trouble By Mitchell Clarke It was the initiative that dished up smiles during lockdown, but now a decrepit looking Spoonville site in Pakenham is providing any-
It was the initiative that dished up smiles during lockdown, but now a decrepit looking Spoonville site in Pakenham is providing anything but joy. During the one hour exercise limit - which is now a distant memory - Spoonville sites across Cardinia Shire were the most popular place to visit. Despite the fad having died down entirely, the Cardinia Lakes community was understandably upset at news their local site appeared to have been targeted by cruel vandals. Estate resident Laksika noticed the destroyed site during her daily walk on Sunday 24 January. “I think someone has just walked over it or kicked them all over. It’s very sad to see it. We always used to stop there and have a look for new ones,” she wrote on Facebook. The reaction from her neighbours was similar. “Absolutely disgusting. The highlight of our walk is our toddler stopping to look and admire the spoons,” one local woman said. “That’s so disappointing. My kids had spoons in there,” another woman added. Pakenham Hills Ward councillor Jack Kowarzik said the news was “really frustrating”. “Spoonville was created by locals for the enjoyment of local children and to see it vandalised is disappointing,” he said. Cardinia Art Society president Jillian Ronald described Spoonville as an “amazing initiative” during Melbourne’s lengthy lockdown. “It’s given joy and positivity in some very dark times and I just think it’s really disappointing that, when the community put together a project to support each other during a difficult time, that someone would take the trouble to destroy it. They’d be better off going home to create a spoon and putting it with
In happier times - Maci, Willow and Aubrey at a Pakenham Spoonville site. 214450 the rest,” she said. “I’d suggest there’s much better things they could do with their time.” The ‘Spoonville’ trend was born out of Winnersh, England, in an attempt to improve mental health by simply making people happy as they were out and about during daily exercise. The quirky saga soon made its way to Cardinia - after Australia’s first ever site was constructed up the highway in Longwarry. Within weeks, the site had spread to Pakenham, Officer, Garfield, Nar Nar Goon, Emerald and Beaconsfield.
Ms Ronald acknowledged the Spoonville craze had now hit a dead end. “They’re getting a little bit tired, so maybe it’s time for the spoons to come home,” she said. Ms Ronald, who commissioned the two local sites at Lakeside in Pakenham, encouraged community members to collect their spoons from their local sites. She added that in mid-February she’d look to clean up all remaining Spoonville’s and relocate any leftover spoons to an “undisclosed location”.
The once popular Spoonville trend appears to have hit a dead end. Picture: FACEBOOK
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Thursday, 9 February, 2023
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NEWS
Antonio an inspiring leader By Eleanor Wilson
12569257-DL38-22
Antonio Castillo-Lopez confidently walked on stage to a roaring applause from his peers on Friday, 3 February, as he was announced as one of Narre Warren South P-12 College’s 2023 college captains. It was a textbook success story for the Year 12 student, who migrated to Narre Warren from his home country of Peru four years ago, without any English language skills and little confidence. “Back in Year 9 I was a completely different person. I had a really bad stutter, I was really nervous, I couldn’t talk to anyone, I was really shy,” Antonio said. “It’s been a really tough journey and a lot of things have happened. You know learning the language, it’s really really hard, but now I can say that I have a future and I can have a good life and this kind of proves it,” he said. Antonio’s mother, Milagros Lopez, who was present at the assembly to see her son receive his leadership badge and blazer, puts his success in the leadership role down to his tenacity. “Antonio doesn’t accept no - he’s so perseverant, he never gives up and he is resilient,” she said. “It was so difficult for all of us staying in Australia, so so difficult. We’ve had a lot of experiences, good and bad, but now [our lives] are improving every day.” “We are so proud...he is strong mentally, he’s a very good son.” Antonio, who now speaks eloquent English, said he hopes to use his captaincy to set a good example for his peers at the P-12 college. “A lot of kids here, I see they’re afraid to talk, because of their accent maybe, or because they’re ashamed of themselves,” he said. “I was once that person, but to actually overcome that fear and become the person
College captain Antonio with mum Milagros (left) and sister Flor Castillo. I am today, I think I can be a really good role model for kids, especially students in the year levels below me. “I’m really happy because this is also an opportunity for people to look up to me and
Picture: ELEANOR WILSON
I can say that I think I can make an impact in the school because I think a lot of people can relate to me - it’s an amazing opportunity and I’m extremely happy I get to do it.” College principal Peter Thatcher said he
was impressed with Antonio’s application and interview for the leadership position. “Antonio was really impressive...he just blew me away with his maturity,” Mr Thatcher said.
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STAR NEWS 15
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PAULS PAINTING & SON
NEED A LOCAL HEATING, COOLING & HOT WATER REPAIRER?
• Fully qualified • Over 30 yea rs experience
Steve on 0407 704 213 12581420-AV49-22
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12473880-DL49-20
• Domestic • Commercial • Interior • Exterior • Driveways
BRIVIS / VULCAN / BONAIRE / BRAEMAR Specialising in air conditioning and heating • Service and repairs to ducted heaters and evaporative coolers • Gas ducted heating changeover units • Carbon Monoxide testing • Installations & supply of split system heating & cooling • Service, repairs and replacement of hot water services
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TRADES & SERVICES
VISA/MASTERCARD/EFTPOS (1.5% credit card processing fee applies. Cheques and money orders can be posted in or hand delivered to our local office)
Deadline for all classifications is 11am Wednesday
Phone Andrew on
0408 585 508, 5998 1127
day or by the job
Call Paul 0432 044 875
A & F CONCRETING • SPECIALISING IN ALL TYPES OF CONCRETING/ CONCRETE PATTERN, SLABS • FOUNDATIONS ETC. • ALL DOMESTIC & INDUSTRIAL NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL FREE QUOTE ANY TIME RING 9700 4378 C63804-BG25-8
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V Electricians 12438941-CG04-20
Online: networkclassifieds.com.au (24/7) Phone: 1300 666 808 (Open 8.30-5pm Mon-Fri) Email: sales@networkclassifieds.com.au
C1085227-JO32-13
t 6OJU 4JUFT t (BSBHFT t %SJWFXBZT t 1FSHPMBT t 1MBJO $PMPVSFE t 4MBUF *NQSFTTJPO t 'BVY #SJDL t &YQPTFE "HHSFHBUF
J.L. Hutt Electrical
24 HOUR SERVICE
Jason 1300 644 698
Credit Card Welcome
A GRADE ELECTRICIAN
PLUMBING & HEATING
LIC. 33033
Call 1300 666 808
Be cool this summer
12533883-JC05-22
V Carpenters
• Brivis Evaporative Cooling • Daikin & Rinnai Splits • Pensioner discounts • Evap & Split Service Specials
V Concrete Products & Services
QUALIFIED CARPENTER/ HOME MAINTENANCE
Call James 0419 158 660
MEB & SON CONCRETING
1161589-LB44-14
12522605-AV46-21
REC 17042 PIC 38148 AU 06212
Qualified & Licensed For prompt & reliable service. No job too small. Lights, Power Points, NBN, Phone, & TV Points. CCTV. Rec 23156. Call for a free quote Mark 0401 523 330
Footings, garages, v crossings, drives, paths & patios. In plain, colour, slate or stencil. Also drainage, saw cutting, 3T excavator, bobcat & tip trucks. NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL
Ring Jim for a free quote 0417 054 198
L&L ELECTRICS
All Types of Domestic & Commercial Work
12390512-ACM24-18
★
★
Call Chris: 0416 079 689 - 5940 7264
Advertise with us and get better results
5998 7796 www.fairbairns.com.au
CALL:
1198421-ACM37-15
Sൾඍඍඅൾආൾඇඍ www.settlementplumbing.com
12362669-EPJ34-17
34 years experience
V Fencing & Gates
SAXON FENCING Palings, Pickets, Colorbond Fences & Gates Prompt and Reliable Service
Phone 0419 775 259 or 8751 4016
C1101420-JO46-13
$
29 .00
STAR STAR • All advertisements must be pre-paid. For $29.00 you get a 4 line, ONE ITEM ONLY advertisement, restricted to “For Sale” or “Motoring” items only for private advertisers, run initially for 13 weeks or until sold. Additional lines will be charged at $3 per line per publication.
Pakenham Gazette Berwick / Cranbourne / Pakenham Star News
• After your advertisement has run for 13 weeks you must call us each fortnight to renew it for a further 2 week period AND reduce the price of your item by a minimum 5% for items in the “For Sale” section or 3% for items in the “Motoring” section. This process may continue until you have sold your item. If we do not hear from you we will assume you have sold your item and your advertisement will not appear. • The sale price must be included in the advertisement and the only alterations you may make are to the PRICE of your item. • Business advertisements, rental hire, pets & livestock and real estate are not included in the offer. • The publisher reserves the right to decline any booking for the purpose of ongoing gain.
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ADD A PHOTO FOR AN ADDITIONAL $8.00. 12588848-FC06-23
16 STAR NEWS
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Thursday, 9 February, 2023
pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
Trades & Services
Employment V Television/Video/Audio
FACTORY HAND/MACHINE OPERATOR
HIGHLY EXPERIENCED TECHNICIANS ANTENNA SERVICE ALL AREAS
guttervac.com.au
V Landscaping
DIGITAL ANTENNAS AMPLIFIERS TV OUTLETS
0409 888 228
LANDSCAPING
Forward resumes to irene@jollymac.com.au and we will be in contact.
OWNER DRIVERS
12469374-CG46-20
Garry Hickey on 0411 860 785
All Bathroom Renovations • Bathrooms • Toilets • Kitchens • Decks • Water proofing • Walls and Floors
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V Painters/Decorators
V Positions Vacant
We require white late model: 1 & 2T Vans & Trays 4T - 12T Trays / Tauts Minimum guarantees Work in all areas Full training No experience required Early starts
C1072232-JJ4-13
ECONOMY TILING
12585537-JC02-22
All aspects of landscaping including paving, retaining walls, instant and artificial lawns.
12523621-JW48-21
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12473880-DL49-20
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Call Paul 0432 044 875
Fulton Hogan are currently looking for people experienced in Sewer and Water Construction for the following positions:
section of Network Classifieds.
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12586981-AV04-23
V Plasterers
PROFICIENT PLASTERING AND PAINTING
Plastering Painting and Tiling • Professional and reliable • Pensioner discounts • Instant quote via MMS Call Keith 0432 480 865 for a free quote
V Tree Lopping/Surgery
Find your Local Professionals in our
ABN 20 410 687 524
SEWER BLOCKAGES – MACHINE CLEANED
Trades & Services
ESTABLISHED 30 YEARS STANDARD RATES ON WEEKENDS gjlawplumbing.com.au 7 DAYS 0419 136 181 - 0419 136 151
No Job Too Small
25%
OFF
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section of Network Classifieds.
0409 14 15 19 rakruyt@aol.com
Find us on Facebook
NEAT PLUMBING SERVICE Lic. Number 27186
Rick Kruyt 1172347-DJ07-15
Hot Water Specialists Blocked Drains
Pruning & Removal of Trees & Shrubs Stump Removal Hedges Mulching & Mulch Sales Full Insurance Cover
Summer Special
Oakfern Tree Care P/L
V Positions Vacant
Pruning Removal Stump Grinding
NEED
0417 382 700
Phone Geoff 0418 340 825 Fully Insured
General Classifieds LEARN Scottish Country Dancing. Tuesday 7.30 to 9.30pm Senior Citizens Centre High St. Berwick 0407 882 866 diannesides@gmail.com
V Adult Services
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ESCORTS R US Ladies Welcome.
Mention this ad for $10 discount New Ladies from 5pm www.escortsrus.com.au
9775 3210 swa224c 12577486-AV46-22
NEW STAFF?
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9703 2011 V Professional
DISCRIMINATION IN ADVERTISING IS UNLAWFUL The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 1995 makes it unlawful for an advertiser to show any intention to discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy, race, age, marital status, political or religious belief or physical features, disability, lawful sexual activity/sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS status or on the basis of being associated with a person with one of the above characteristics, unless covered by an exception under the Act. As Network Classifieds could be legally liable if an unlawful advertisement is printed, Network Classifieds will not accept advertisements that appear to break the law. For more information about discrimination in advertising, contact your legal advisers or the Equal Opportunity Commission.
Motoring V Auto Services/ Repair
OCR
Old Cars Removed WE PAY YOU
V Motor Vehicles MAZDA 2016 CX3 maxx. 57,000kms, auto, 1 lady owner, 1HG-1FU, $22,950 ono, vgc. 0422 424 512
$$$
V Massage Therapists ADVERTISERS, in this section are qualified practitioners and offer nonsexual services.
Fill your position online www.networkclassifieds.com.au
Motoring
For Any Old Car TODAY
0425 702 776 12589182-FC06-23
LMCT 10227
V Pets & Services ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE Anyone advertising a puppy, dog, kitten or cat in Victoria for sale or re-homing will need a source number from the Pet Exchange Register and a microchip identification number. It is now an offence to advertise unless the source number and microchip identification number is included in the advertisement or notice. For further information, call 136 186 or visit animalwelfare.vic.gov.au
12423634-SN31-19
V Dancing
12565959-HC35-22
C316291-KK18-5
1158529-PB42-14
12474326-NG50-20
TREE SERVICE
1 HOUR EMERGENCY PLUMBING
• Min 2 years experience. • Good time management skills. • Confident on the road. • Knowledge of the Melbourne Metro & able to work under high pressure. • High Remuneration
If this sounds like you please call us on
HIGH TREE
V Plumbing
Please note that we only consider applications from skilled applicants with South East Water experience in new land development water/sewer reticulation & sewer outfall construction. Please send Resume and cover letter to: ashlee.davenport@fultonhogan.com.au PO BOX 690 DANDENONG VIC 3175 Or phone Ashlee Davenport on 0419 741 584
12586952-JW03-23
• Domestic • Commercial • Interior • Exterior • Driveways
2 days per week, Narre Warren North. Call 0438 306 629.
HC DRIVERS
Call 0432 550 066 or 8707 5522 • Fully qualified • Over 30 years experience
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FARM HAND
TWO POSITIONS
9775 0201
PAULS PAINTING & SON
Are you tired of your current job and looking for a change? Miles Transport is a locally based transport company. We are looking for drivers with a HC or MC licence. We have a Fleet of Modern Trucks. Give us a call on 0408 586 708 and we can work out if this is the job you would love.
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V Tiling
35 Years Experience
DRIVERS WANTED 12589388-AI06-23
Wanted for profile cutting company located in Dandenong South. Small thriving company looking for day and or afternoon shifts. Experience is not essential. Training will be provided to the right applicant.
SAME DAY SERVICE
0400 877 774 1300 654 253
V Positions Vacant
12587165-ET04-23
Call today to organise a FREE no-obligation quote.
* Safety Trained & Fully Insured * Wet/Dry VACUUM cleaning * Professional & Friendly Service
ANTENNA MAN
12550881-AI21-22
Need your gutters cleaned?
V Positions Vacant
12586917-SN04-23
V Guttering
Find local work in the
Employment section of Network Classifieds. networkclassifieds.com.au
with us and get better results
12514849-JW40-21
ADVERTISE CALL 1300 666 808 pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
Thursday, 9 February, 2023
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STAR NEWS 17
SPORT
Officer young guns test their elite talents abroad By Marcus Uhe While Melbournians sweltered through the heat of summer, two of Officer’s brightest young football talents were testing their Gaelic football skills in the grips of a Northern Hemisphere winter. McKenna O’Reilly and Kayla Dalgleish, from Officer Junior Football Club and the Dandenong Stingrays Coates Talent League side, were part of a 39-player squad to visit the United Kingdom in late December and January with the Wanderers Australia travel group, playing in exhibition games of Gaelic and Australian football against local sides. They played five games in total, testing their skills with a round ball and in bitterly cold conditions, and making life-long friends along the way, having been paired with an opponent and spending the night at their homes after games. Both admitted that they were unfamiliar with playing the Gaelic game, but for O’Reilly, there was a sense of pride in playing with the round ball. “I had never played Gaelic before but I am Irish and my grandad did play Gaelic, so he was quite happy that I was going over and playing,” she said. “I think it was much easier to adapt to the round ball compared to the oval ball. “I think it was the ball-drop, from an AFL ball it’s different and so much more precise, with a Gaelic ball you can kind of hit it down and you’ll be okay. “The hardest thing would have been ‘soloing’, a lot of the Aussie girls couldn’t quite get
Kayla Dalgleish and McKenna O’Reilly on their Irish adventure. Pictures: SUPPLIED
The girls took pride in their growing guernsey collection, swapping with teammates and opponents throughout the trip.
that one and seeing the Irish girls go at full pace with that, was pretty impressive.” A ‘solo’ is where a player kicks the ball to themselves on the run, and must be completed after every four steps. Alternatively, the player can bounce the ball instead of performing the solo. Dalgleish concurred with her teammate, and added that the difference in physicality took some adjusting. “I think it would have been a lot harder for them to adjust to our ball, that would have been much harder, but our kicks half the time were going out on the full,” she said.
“It was so difficult because you can’t touch them. You can’t ‘bear-hug’, nothing, it’s like basketball on the field. “You only have a slap at the ball and if you touch their hand, it’s a free-kick. All us girls found that very hard.” With kicking being only a minor component of the Irish game in comparison to Aussie rules, the dashing flankers relished in the ability to run and carry the ball. For O’Reilly, she said the speed of ballmovement by hand will be something she will look to implement to her game at Coates League level.
“Definitely the quick hands because in Gaelic, kicking is not a very good option,“ she said. “You’re better-off running in a group of three or four and getting quick hands, and weaving it quickly. “It’s more of a running game and there’s less kicking, the only time you really kick is when you go for goal.” Weather conditions also proved difficult for O’Reilly, who fell victim to the rain and wind in one contest. “In our fourth game, I genuinely got brainfreeze because of how cold it was,“ she said. “You could choose to wear gloves but the rain comes from the side and it stings you in the eyes because it was so cold.” While both girls enjoyed the experiences on the field, the travelling component and mingling with their opponents after games proved to be a highlight. “All the friends I made were the main (highlights),” Dalgleish said. “Seeing the different architecture and the way people do things is so different over there and getting the experience of how everyone is so different. “After the game we would meet up with them (their host partner), go back to their house and drop our bags, then come back to the club rooms and all have a dinner. “Sometimes they showed us some Irish dancing, and music and one time they taught us hurling, so we learnt a lot of different stuff.” The Officer girls’ Coates League season begins in mid-March.
Exciting finish sees Hennessy take Hunter at Hillside By David Nagel Pakenham trainer Peter Moody appears to have an exciting prospect on his hands after Hennessy Lad made it three wins from five career starts at Sandown Hillside on Saturday. The three-year-old gelding started a $2.50 favourite in the $150,000 Robert Hunter Handicap (1800m), and used every inch of the Sandown straight to wear down the free-wheeling Gai Waterhouse-Adrian Botttrained Acosta. Hennessy Lad gave up a huge start, before continuing a great start to 2023 for popular owner-syndicator Wylie Dalziel. “It goes in waves doesn’t it, we’ll enjoy it (the luck) while it’s there, and we’ve had a couple of unlucky runners in between,” Dalziel explained post-race. “We work hard, it’s a dream, but not an overnight success, we’ve been at it for a while and it’s great. “This is a horse we bought in New Zealand for only $80,000. “He’s really repaid us and the owners that follow us with these New Zealand horses, they’ve jumped in and having a great time. “It was a really good win, great ride by Carleen (Hefel), I didn’t think she was going to get him there but he knuckled down the last 100 metres and reeled them in.” Dalziel said Hennessy Lad had put behind him any concerns surrounding his staying ability and prospects of stepping up in grade. “That was the query, even though he didn’t get out last start - and it looked like he should have won the race - you never know until you stretch them out and today, he’s done it beautifully,” he said. “Obviously he runs 1800 nicely, and it looks like he’ll get over 2000, 24. “So maybe a nicer race down the track beckons.” Hefel was almost content with a second18 STAR NEWS
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Thursday, 9 February, 2023
Hennessy Lad gobbles up Acosta in the shadows of the post to win impressively at Sandown on Saturday. Picture: SCOTT BARBOUR/RACING PHOTOS place finish as she looked up as the field turned for home. “I saw I had a bit to do, and I did think at one stage I was going to run a nice second, but then he went through his gears and I knew he was going to get there,” Hefel said. The powerful Cranbourne training partnership of Ciaron Maher and David Eustace waited until the last two races on the card to claim training honours at Sandown on Saturday. On a day when two Group-3s went up for grabs, the Maher-Eustace camp had three placings earlier in the program before Right You Are produced a dominant display in the
$150,000 BenchMark-100 Handicap (1800m). Piloted expertly by in-form jockey Ethan Brown, Right You Are exploded away in the straight to win running away by four lengths, with Beltoro ($6) and red-hot race-favourite Detonator Jack ($1.65) left in his wake. The Maher-Eustace stable then made the short trip back to Cranbourne even more enjoyable, after their Irish-import Glory Daze was given a peach of a ride by Mark Zahra to score in the last race on the card. Zahra settled well back on the inside during the race, before finding galloping room late to kick clear on the rails.
Glory Daze, who ran second in the Group-3 Irish Derby as a three-year-old, is a four-year-old horse out of Cotai Glory/Pioneer Alexander. His win at Sandown on Saturday was just his second Australian start, after running a close-up fifth at Warrnambool on 8 January. Eustace was thrilled with the win postrace, with Glory Daze having to overcome a sticky inside gate to get the job done. “It was obviously a little bit of an awkward spot, but we knew he would be in that (predicament) from the draw, but Sandown is a lovely big track so we felt the gaps could open, and if they did, he’d be able to take it,” Eustace said. The leading trainer in Victoria said the stable had a high opinion of the horse, but would take the proven path of working him quietly through the grades. “He’s still got a nice rating, he’s won at 78-grade today, but naturally we’ll take him through the grades and get a bit of feedback from Mark (Zahra) as well,” Eustace explained. “He’ll step up in trip, but we’ll just enjoy today and work out what he does after the weekend.” The two Group-3 victories on the program went to the James Cummings-trained Zulfiqar, who took out the $200,000 Chairman’s Stakes (1000m) for two-year-olds, and to Wrote To Arataki, trained by Matthew Williams and ridden by Jamie Kah to take out the $200,000 Geoffrey Bellmaine Stakes (1300m). Racing returns to Sandown this Saturday 11 February for a high-quality card of racing. Highlighting the program will be the Group-1 CF Orr Stakes, with three Group-2 and Group-3 races providing a stellar support cast. Preludes for the Blue Diamond Stakes will be run, while the group-2 Rubiton Stakes (1100m) will attract a high-class field of sprinters. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
SPORT
Pakenham stars shine in Swedish relay medal win By David Nagel Two rising stars from Pakenham Little Athletics have created history by being part of the first Region team to win a gold medal at the Little Athletics Victoria State Relay Championships on Saturday. Lily Wouters and Shae Langley from Pakenham joined forces with Aleasha Read and Maddy Boyd from Traralgon to form the Gippsland Country Region Team, after both Little Athletics centres only had two girls each in the Under-16 age group. It was the first time the event had been held for three years, with 3000 athletes converging on Lakeside Stadium in Albert Park for one the highlight meets on the calendar. Little Athletics Victoria is made of approximately 100 centres, divided into seven regions – four metro and three country – and the competition was hot with many teams putting in hours and weeks of training in preparation. Relay teams must qualify through their Region Event to make it to State finals so only the best teams are at the championships. Gippsland Country President Steve Woolf said the girls were up against it just to qualify for the finals. “These girls first met on the day of Region (event) in December with no training and won the 4 x 100, 4 x 200 and Swedish Medley Events qualifying them for state,” Woolf said. “On Saturday the girls turned up to Lakeside Stadium to take on the State Championships, again with no training due to locations and holidays, but with smiles and a positive attitude.”
Lilly, Shae, Maddy and Aleasha first tackled the 4 x 200 event and powered home to claim a silver medal, the first region team to achieve such a feat. But the girls weren’t done with yet. They finished fifth in the 4 x 100, before all eyes turned to their pet event, the Swedish Medley, where they were confident of being on the podium. Woolf takes up the story. “Shae led the team off with a strong 100 metres, passing the baton to Aleasha for the 300-metre leg, and she sat on the shoulder of the leader before powering away over the last 80 metres. “Aleasha handed the baton to Lily for the 200-metre leg with the lead. “Lily ran the best 200 metres of her life and passed the baton to Maddison for the 400-metre leg. “Maddison just powered away from the field and the girls won the race by nearly 10 seconds, which equates to about 80 metres.” Woolf said the girls had achieved something special. “To put this into perspective, no Region Team has ever won silver at State Relays, let alone gold, so the girls have created history.” Pakenham Little Athletics had many more participants on the day, with everyone doing their centre proud. Lily Wouters, Shae Langley, Aleasha Read and Maddy Boyd were all smiles after winning the Swedish Medley Event at the Little Athletics State Relay Championships. Picture: SUPPLIED
New team welcomed to the ’Hood’ By David Nagel
The JA Memorial Cup was a success for the Yabbies on the weekend.
Memorial Cup a huge success for Yabbies Sunday was a day of mixed emotions for the members and guests of Pakenham Upper Toomuc Cricket Club. The JA Cup started by Chris Gunton and the committee in 2015 was a Memorial Day to celebrate the lives of those the club have loved and lost, but these days have always been tainted with an air of grief, mixed with the joy and memories. This year Bob Senior and Clive Fielder were remembered, two Yabbies who will be missed. Bob supported his son and players as a spectator, and dedicated his time and mapakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
chinery when it was required. Clive was a player, president, secretary, junior coach, and more, as a dedicated family man who touched all lives with his humour, passion and love of the club and everyone in it. Three generations played cricket together, Dave Downes played a cameo role in gully with his daughter Victoria, and grandsons Harvey and Finn Senior. Brett Carey opened the batting with his son Tyson, both failing, and Jai and Riley Allcock played together as brothers in arms once again.
On the faces of spectators was laughter and joy on an otherwise dreary day. What more could Clive have wanted other than to witness it in person? His son Kenny and grandson Harrison stood proud in the field whilst Bob “Snake” Phillips ran in the bowl. The only one missing was Ron Milnes, who was doctoring the score book to bowl 10 overs from one end. Well done to all who worked tirelessly to bring it together and make it such a success.
The new kid on the block got a rude introduction to life in the South West Gippsland Dart League (SWGDL) with one of the competition heavyweights standing their ground with authority. Just Social was in no mood for niceties when it took on competition new-comer ‘The Hoodies’ in round two action. The Hoodies had a bye in round one, and then faced the toughest of initiations against a perennial finalist who always seem to hit the target. Just Social was in terrific form on the night, winning 14-1 and giving The Hoodies a taste of the level they need to aspire to. Just Social is undefeated after two rounds, sitting second behind Warriors and level on points with Snipers who have also triumphed in the opening two rounds of the season. Warriors backed up their 14-1 victory over FORE in round one with another clinical display, thumping Rebels 11-4. Anthony Lawler from Warriors provided one of the highlights of the night, grabbing the highest peg with a classy 88 finish. Snipers had a tougher time of things, prevailing 9-6 against PakyOne, with Dean Gibbs extending his lead in the tons thrown category, while 26ERS won by the same 9-6 margin against the Bullseyes. The final game of round two was a thriller, with Gembrook winning by the narrowest of margins against the Mud Rats. The 8-7 victory saw Gembrook move to sixth place on the ladder, with Mud Rats sliding to ninth. LADDER – ROUND 2: Warriors 8, Just Social 8, Snipers 8, Rebels 4, PakyOne 4, Gembrook 4, 26ERS 4, Bullseyes 0, Mud Rats 0, FORE 0, The Hoodies 0. Thursday, 9 February, 2023
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STAR NEWS 19
St Clare’s Catholic Primary School in Officer
Open Day Saturday 1 April
Our faith leads to wisdom and courage. ’s and is embedded in the ethos of the school, the curriculum we offer and the
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.
School Tours Available
12586188-AI05-23
Please contact the school now to make a booking Ph 5940 6777 St Clare’s Primary School Officer Officer 3809 Phone 03 5940 6777 Email enrolments@stclaresofficer.catholic.edu.au 20 STAR NEWS
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Thursday, 9 February, 2023
pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au