News - Pakenham Officer Star News - 2nd March 2023

PAKENHAM OFFICER

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Thursday, 2 March, 2023

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Permanent home for embroidery

Dinesh dreaming of gold

Eranda erupts with 307

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SPORT

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Women leading the way

What a night! Local talent was on display at the Cardinia Cultural Centre in CPAC Musical Theatre’s production of Jersey Boys. The production tells the story of the the formation, success and eventual break-up of the 1960s rock ‘n’ roll group The Four Seasons.

Jersey Boys’ opening night was a blast for cast, crew and the audience. Picture: SUPPLIED

Plans have been unveiled for a large Sikh temple on the border of Pakenham’s green wedge. Sikh Sewaks Australia (SSA), a not-for-profit organisation, is hoping to build a 2900sqm building with internal courtyard on a 9ha property, with 89 car spaces and 47 informal car spaces. The site, 195 Dore Rd Pakenham, is 380 metres north of the urban growth boundary which contains established residential areas and developing residential precincts of the Pakenham East Precinct Structure Plan (PSP).

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Some residents in the green wedge have expressed concern about over-development in their rural area. The permit, which is currently being advertised on Cardinia Shire Council’s website, proposes opening hours for the assembly/ prayer hall to be Monday to Sunday 5.30am to 10pm as well as guided meditations 6.30pm to 9.30pm Fridays and Saturdays and 6am, 10am and 2pm Sundays. Daily activities proposed to be held at the temple listed in the application include sports, martial arts, music and movement classes, a community kitchen which would be used

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SSA received honours in the 2021 and 2022 Holt Australia Day Awards for services they provided during the 2019 bushfires and the Covid-19 pandemic. The spokesperson said the group was, “excited to be part of the community that lives along Dore Road”. “[We] do not want to create any uneasiness for the existing residents and for ourselves and as such have complied with every request for added information posed by the council,” the spokesperson said. Continued page 4

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to serve food after worship sessions and occasional preparation of food for delivering to needy groups and for individuals or groups who may visit. It also lists meetings associated with organising accommodation and financial support for vulnerable individuals and families, providing spiritual counselling in person or through a hotline, horse riding classes and organic farming. In a letter provided by SSA, a spokesperson said the main function of the proposed use was for worship and charity work for the Sikh Sewak community.

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By Shelby Brooks

12588394-AI05-23

Temple proposal

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NEWS

Anna and Coolangatta after her recent group 1 Lightning win at Flemington.

Women making their mark By Tanya Faulkner In a highly male-dominated industry, it can be difficult to make it to the top as a woman, let alone make a name for yourself on a national stage. However, Cranbourne’s racing industry is stepping up with local iconic women making their mark amongst the ponies. Lucy Yeomans has been amongst the Cranbourne Turf Club for most of her adulthood, working amongst the men in horse racing and fighting her way through to her dream job. Coming from an equestrian background, Ms Yeomans found her love for racing through her love of horses, particularly those she’s worked with over the years. Ms Yeomans’ first position at Cranbourne was working for local racers Colin and Cindy Alderson - who themselves have secured their names in Victorian racing, with Cindy being named The Wakeful Club Lady of Racing 2022 for her many years of service to racing. From there, Ms Yeomans changed teams and joined her current racing team with Ciaron Maher and David Eustace, who were originally based in Caulfield before the racecourse’s closure, and found her way back to Cranbourne last year when the team relocated. Throughout her racing career, Ms Yeoman has worked with world-class riders, trainers and horses, including Gold Trip who was raced to victory by jockey Mark Zahra in the recent 2022 Melbourne Cup. When asked what the best part is about being a female in racing, Ms Yeomans said it was all about the horses and the community for her in Cranbourne. “Ciaron and David are all about supporting the women in the industry, and we have quite a female-dominated teams for quite a male saturated industry,” she said. She said while more women are coming into racing in recent years, the sport - like other industries - still has a way to go. Similar was said by Ms Yeomans teammate and rider Anna Weatherlake, who made the venture from England to race in Australia.

Ms Weatherlake has been around horses before she could walk, and said her career is her mum’s fault. “Her and her best friend jumped horses back in England. I was in the yard in a pram and regularly on the front of a horse, up to gallop, when I was young,” she said. Since then, she progressed by getting her own pony for racing, moving into jumps racing and worked there for a while, before eventually making the move across the world to continue her career in Victoria. Ms Weatherlake found herself in Melbourne nearly four years ago, joining Ciaron and Davids’ team, and said she has had many more opportunities for riding since coming to Cranbourne. “Because I wanted to jump horses, it has been better here being with Ciaron. He’s very supportive of the women and sees them as being as strong as the men, and has been very helpful pushing me in the right direction,” she said. Both Ms Weatherlake and Ms Yeomanss said for any women wanting to get into racing, the key is to work hard and be open to learning as much as you can. Ms Yeomans said she has had a tough journey getting to where she is, and it’s an industry where you work long hours and never really stop learning new things, and it’s important to find the best place for you. “I felt that, being a woman, I had to prove myself more than the men, but if you work hard and find the right place for you to settle and work, you can do whatever you want in racing,” she said. Later this month the Cranbourne Turf Club is celebrating the women that have come to work and train at the club with an International Women’s Day Charity Luncheon, being held on Wednesday 8 March. Club members, and members of the public, are invited to dress to impress and enjoy a three-course luncheon, drag queen bingo and acoustic entertainment, and have the opportunity to connect with local women of Cranbourne’s racing community.

Anna Weatherlake with champion horse Explosive Jack. 2 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 2 March, 2023

Lucy Yeomans with Lord Paramount.

Jockey Jamie Kah and Anna after their Group 1 Moir Stakes win at Moonee Valley last spring. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Embroidery now on show Cardinia Shire Council has established a permanent home for the Cardinian Embroidery public artwork at the Cardinia Cultural Centre. The Cardinian Embroidery consists of eight panels that feature historic buildings, monuments, parks and events significant to all townships across the shire. The project brought almost 2000 people together from all over Cardinia Shire to contribute towards this unique public artwork that honours local heritage. Cardinia Shire Mayor Cr Tammy Radford said council is proud to recognise the significance of this artwork. “Having the Embroidery permanently on exhibit in Cardinia Cultural Centre enables council to continue the important legacy of the Embroidery for generations to come,” Ms Radford said. With the original launch event taking place in 2006, the Cardinian Embroidery project forms an important part in the artistic history of Cardinia Shire. People involved in the creation of the Embroidery gathered on Sunday 26 February to honour the project and view a short documentary about the story behind the artwork. “It was delightful to acknowledge the sensational effort of those involved in The Cardinian Embroidery. “This artwork clearly holds a place of considerable significance not only for those involved in its creation, but also for our broader community,” Ms Radford said. The documentary about The Cardinian Embroidery is available to see on Cardinia Cultural Centre’s website. If you would like to see The Cardinian Embroidery public artwork, visit Cardinia Cultural Centre from Monday to Sunday between 10am and 3pm.

From left, coordinator of arts and creative industries James Fischer, Cr Graeme Moore, Mayor Cr Tammy Radford, Eleanor Taylor, Cr Jack Kowarzik and Cr Collin Ross standing with the Cardinian Embroidery at Cardinia Cultural Centre. 321952

‘So much relief’: Visit ban reversed for father’s funeral In a surprise turnaround, a Cambodian man has won a desperate fight to attend his late father’s funeral in Springvale. Chhayly, 18, had made multiple failed applications for visitor visas to see his Hallam father Koung Hoy Poeung on his death bed in January as well as to attend the funeral. After several months, finally on 27 February, Chhayly’s elated supporters got a phone call from the Department of Home Affairs giving him the green light. He is now racing to buy tickets to fly out to join his mother Channa and younger brother Alex for the service, postponed until 4 March. His supporters included a senior monk Venerable Sudhep Nan at Watt Buddharangsi temple in Springvale South. The abbot’s chief adviser, Thay-Horn Yim, said the family were “so happy” about the news. “There’s so much relief now. They’re now

Chhayly and Channa, pictured in 2019 with Alex, have been finally granted entry to Australia to attend their father and husband’s funeral. doing their best to get a [plane] ticket for the funeral.” Mr Yim said he had clarified the family’s situation to an “understanding” Home Affairs delegate on 27 February. Just 20 minutes later, the department

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the decision. On 8 February, a Department of Home Affairs director replied on behalf of Mr Giles: “It is open to Chhayly to lodge a new visa application. “Without pre-empting a decision, a new application may be more successful if additional information is provided to satisfy the delegate that a genuine temporary stay is intended.” Earlier this month, mother Channa was finally granted a visitor visa after being knocked back by the Department of Home Affairs and an appeals tribunal. She was expected to arrive in Melbourne 1 March. Hoy’s seven-year-old son Alex, an Australian citizen, was by his father’s side as he died, while Channa and Chhayly were barred entry to Australia to see him. Since then, Alex has been cared for by monks at the Watt Buddharangsi temple.

phoned to confirm a visa would be granted. “Thanks to Star News, your articles raised a lot of awareness. “Everyone got involved. They said they couldn’t believe how this could happen? But eventually we got the visa.” Department of Home Affairs delegates had claimed Chhayly didn’t have “strong employment or financial incentives” to return to Cambodia. “I note the applicant has other relatives residing in Australia, which would further act as an encouragement for the applicant to remain in Australia.” Mr Yim argued the “heart-breaking” decisions wrongly focused on Chhayly’s lack of income as a student. It overlooked bank statements showing the family had money, as well as backing from the Cambodian Buddhist Monk Council of Australian and New Zealand. Supporters had desperately written to Immigration Minister Andrew Giles to reverse

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By Cam Lucadou-Wells

www.davidwbull.com.au Thursday, 2 March, 2023

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STAR NEWS 3

THE LOWDOWN Q&A

with Little Crete founder Raihania Bradey

Tell us a fun fact about yourself! When I was young I hardly ever played basketball, I was actually a netball player. What do you love the most about basketball and running your own club? No matter what sport you’re involved with, community and relationships is what I love the most and the strong sense of belonging. One of the most rewarding parts is to watch a child pick up a basketball for the first time and watch them gain confidence and realise their full potential. What are you most passionate about? My family - my family have and still do play a huge part in my life. My parents instilled in me from a young age that by knowing who I am and where I come from nothing else mattered. I continue to emulate this through my family first, and secondly throughout our basketball club and wider community. Little Crete is the safe space for our children to be just just that. What would your last meal be? Creamed Paua (abalone) and Aunty Angies NZ fried bread - yum! Or Mum’s boil up with fresh white bread and butter. What was your most memorable moment? Childhood memories... growing up closely with my three siblings and with my 90-plus first cousins ! My father had 12 siblings - and although we had nothing, we had everything - family! What was your favourite subject in school? I always loved the sciences, physics, chemistry but human biology was my favourite subject. What event, past or present, would you like to witness? I hope to witness my children living good lives, growing old, and having a flourishing family tree. Which six dinner guests, dead or alive, would you invite to dinner? Both my grandmothers Raihania and Anita,

Raihania began Little Crete Basketball Club. both were strong women and both were extremely influential to who I am today. Miss Toulmin, a primary school teacher that always told me I can be anything I want to be. My Mum Juline and my Dad Robert simply because I know they love me, and lastly my husband Api who is always in the background supporting me. What are you currently listening to/watching or reading? I don’t have much time to do any of that but when I do, Ub40 on the iPod and Twilight for something nostalgic. How would you describe your fashion sense? Mum bun, tights and little bit of I just woke up!

THREE … native plants used in Traditional smoking ceremonies

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Manna Gum According to Traditional Land Owner Uncle Josh, the Manna Gum tree represents community. It it used in spears and boomerangs, as well as for its medicinal properties.

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Black Wattle Black Wattle represents the Elders, or the “old people, the warriors” as Uncle Josh calls them. This tree is also used in tool-making, and as medicine, with the bark treating stomach aches, ulcers and arthritis.

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Cherry Ballart This tree is known as the Children’s Tree, as it needs another host tree in order to grow. However, when it gets big enough, it will let go of its host and grow on its own! Cherry Ballart is used in shields and woomeras, as it is steel-strong when dried. Twigs can be used as a bitter tonic, and the sap can be applied topically to treat snakebites. The red cherries of this tree are edible, but be careful, the leaves of this tree are toxic.

Picture: SUPPLIED Have you ever had a pet that has made an impact on your life? We had a black bunny named Everest! Unfortunately, he passed away last year and it totally devastated our family. It was truly like losing a family member. If you had to compete on MasterChef, what dish would you cook? A share platter seafood boil. It’s one of my faves to feed our big family. Where is your dream holiday destination? Bali! We go there every year as a family and it’s still a dream.

Plans unveiled for temple From page 1 “We hope to be able to contribute to the community around this area. We have plans and activities to assist the older residences and also food for anyone needing food – serving free three meals a day and we hope that you can be also part of our programs and activities in giving back to the wider Australian Community.” In the letter, the spokesperson said a site manager or religious leader would reside within the existing dwelling on the site. “The development plans show that the proposed buildings are well setback from both street frontages and the buildings/site coverage is very low, at less than four per cent,” they explained. “There will be a single two-way access point to Dore Road and a total of 134 car spaces (this

is expected to cater for even the larger functions mentioned below). “The buildings are all single-storey and are cut into the site so that they will not be visually dominant to the street. “Day to day worship will have a relatively small number of attendees (goal to get a maximum of 150 devotees) with larger events restricted to Sikh holy days (four times a year). “We are confident that the proposed use will be seen to fit in with the character of the area and will not be detrimental to the amenity of the surrounding area,” they said. Neighbouring residents have already expressed some concern about noise, increase in traffic and security in relation to the plan. One local person, who did not wish to be named, said the area was mainly farmers and hobby farmers, so was worried about over-de-

David Mallon 0413 748 240 dmallon@futurefood.com.au

velopment in the green wedge zone. “We are here for the serenity of nature, not concrete block housing,” they said. “This temple is overdeveloped and is the size of a function centre. The development is not fit for the area. “Hundreds of people chanting and dancing letting off fireworks and making noises will cause livestock to fret, run through fences, on to roads and highways causing serious accidents to humans.” The responsible authority will not decide on the application before 9 March 2023.

An illustration of the Dore Rd proposal.

F O O D A N D H OS PI TA L I T Y CO N SU LTA N T S

12592600-AP09-23

4 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 2 March, 2023

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NEWS

Dinesh dreaming of gold By Eleanor Wilson Endeavour Hills’ Dinesh Perera knows the value of a second chance in life. Diagnosed with multiple myeloma - a type of blood cancer - in his late 20s, Mr Perera spent months in hospital undergoing chemotherapy treatment, drug trials and a failed bone marrow transplant. Ultimately, it was a second transplant from his older brother Chaminda, in 2006, that saved his life. Now seven or eight years clear of the disease, the 45 year-old is using his good health to the fullest, competing in the upcoming World Transplant Games - and he has high hopes to bring home gold. The World Transplant Games are staged every two years for people who have undergone either solid organ or bone marrow transplants, while donor family members and living donors can also participate in selected events. Mr Perera will compete in the 5km road race, badminton singles, badminton doubles, squash and triathlon at the 2023 Games in Perth this April. It will be his third kick of the can at the games, also competing in the 2007 World Transplant Games in Bangkok, where he earned a silver medal for shooting, and the 2009 Games on the Gold Coast. After the 2009 event, Mr Perera took a break from the games for personal reasons, but hopes his return to competition will be a fruitful feat. “I’m very confident about badminton and squash this year, especially doubles,” he said. “I’ve got a very good partner for doubles, he’s born in Hong Kong and he’s a badminton coach based in Sydney, so that’s the big one for me, and squash as well.” Training for the games requires a heavy training schedule for Mr Perera, who juggles

Mr Perera said he believes he is in the best shape of his life in the lead up to the games. 321085 sport with a busy career as a criminologist and his roles as a husband and father to a five yearold girl. He completes running training in the morning before work, and badminton and squash each evening, all of which he said would be

impossible without the support of his family and friends. “My wife is very supportive, most mornings she’s the one that kicks me out of bed and tells me to go for a run, so she’s a big support system,” he said.

“He’s very ambitious, very driven and wants to achieve things…if he could compete in more events he would,” Mrs Perera laughed. “I think sporting is in his genes as well, he was always very sporty…I think its what makes him sane,” Mrs Perera said of her husband, who she has known since they were children growing up in Sri Lanka. A costly exercise, Mr Perera said attending the games would not be possible without the support of his major sponsor and local business J8 Cleaning Services, along with the City of Casey, from whom he received a community achievement grant. He said he hopes his participation in the games brings awareness to the importance of organ donation and the visibility of donor recipients. “For people like us to get a second chance at life, there’s a lot of generous people around the world who can play that part and it’s not gonna cost anything for your health,” he said. “I think its important to treat us like normal people and to be non-judgemental and supportive of the people around you, because you never know what someone might be going through. He said he expects the forthcoming games to be “very competitive”. “There’s some pretty good players coming...I think it’s more competitive because we have gone through so much, we’ve struggled and fought hard to fight our illnesses, so you have more morale and resilience.” The 2023 World Transplants Games will be held in Perth from 15 to 21 April. In Australia, there are around 1700 people currently on the waitlist for a life-saving transplant. An additional 12,000 people are on dialysis and may benefit from a kidney transplant.

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Thursday, 2 March, 2023

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STAR NEWS 5

NEWS

OPINION

On the run for two years VIPER Taskforce officers have arrested a man and a woman who were wanted for 11 incidents dating back to March 2021, including aggravated burglaries, driving offences, thefts, assaults and making threats to kill. With the assistance of the Dog Squad and the Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems Unit (Drone Unit), a warrant was executed at 5.30am at a Cranbourne North address on the morning of 21 February. A 23-year-old man from Cranbourne North, already the subject of a Firearm Prohibition Order (FPO), was charged with intentionally cause injury, recklessly cause injury and fail to appear whilst on bail. During the FPO search of his address, police located what appeared to be a quantity of cannabis. He was bailed to face the Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on 20 March for eight different matters. A 28-year-old woman from Cranbourne North was also arrested and bailed to face Ringwood Magistrates’ Court on 15 June and Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on 11 July. Investigators will allege the pair had fled the state to avoid police apprehension in Victoria. VIPER Taskforce Senior Constable Paul Harris said police would do everything they could to keep the community safe.

LENSCAPE

Best seat in the house for the burnouts at the Tooradin Tractor Pull. 321353

THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN Thumbs down For whoever removed the Restore Rup Rail corflutes at the South Gippy Highway level crossing. It’s for the greater good and both councils are for it.

Thumbs up

Ducks divide By Corey Everitt

6 STAR NEWS

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To local Lynbrook businesses who donated vouchers to support the ‘Pancakes in the Park’ event for Shrove Tuesday.

Thumbs up

The State Government’s new restrictions on this year’s duck hunting season has split our local politicians and opened up a debate about the future of duck hunting in areas like East Gippsland. The State Government declared in February that this year’s duck hunting season would run a month shorter than last year, from 26 April to 30 May. While announcing an inquiry would be initiated to investigate the legitimacy of recreational bird hunting and discuss its social and environmental impacts. There are only designated areas for hunters to hunt ducks in Victoria, many of which are in Gippsland. This year, hunters are restricted to bagging four birds a day. Outdoor Recreation Minister Sonya Kilkenny said the issue of duck hunting was becoming “increasingly contested”. Over recent years, the issue of duck hunting has seen people call for harsher restrictions to be put in place. Some have called for a complete ban. Last year’s duck season caused controversy as two species of bird, the bluewinged shoveler and hardhead ducks, were prohibited from hunting, yet a blue-winged shoveler was killed on the first day of the season. Eastern Victoria MP Melina Bath slammed the State Government’s new restrictions. “The Andrews Government is shutting down recreational hunting by stealth,” she said. “Duck season in Victoria is a highly regulated activity that injects millions into our local economy. “Our recreation hunters are the true conservationists and the Andrews Government painting them any other way is shameful.” Some Labor MPs have publicly called for an end to duck hunting, including Bass MP Jordan Crugnale and Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas. Victoria is among Tasmania and South Australia as the last states to allow duck hunting. The State Government’s inquiry into duck hunting will hand down a final report on 31 August. Thursday, 2 March, 2023

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

To the bakers at Coles in Clyde, bread there is always super soft.

Thumbs down

Thumbs up

To the real estate agents who never get around to getting things in rentals fixed. Six months no oven!

To Major Road Projects Victoria for having Thompsons Road open when they said they would.

Thumbs down

Thumbs down

To the guy who was caught on CCTV video stealing all the flowers from the roadside memorial for the young man who lost his life last week.

Thumbs up To the community for engaging on this group (The Lynbrook Social Page)! Great stuff goes on here!

Reception is terrible in Clyde.

Thumbs up Massive shout out to the guy cleaning up along Warneet Rd this morning, seen you there a few times you’re amazing and your efforts haven’t gone unnoticed. Thank you for making out little town even more beautiful.

NEWS

Casey Relay returns By Eleanor Wilson Akoonah Park will be transformed into a sea of purple this weekend as Casey Relay for Life holds its first fundraiser in three years. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the event in Casey, which has raised over $4.5 million for cancer research through the 24-hour relay event. This year, the organising committee has set a fundraising goal of $200,000 for the Cancer Council. Casey Relay For Life spokesperson Daniel Gargaro said the organisers are excited to see the relay back at Akoonah Park. “It’s obviously been a difficult few years with Covid and everything and a lot of events were cancelled,” Mr Gargaro said. “The committee tried to get the event up and running in virtual form first and tried last year to make it happen as a physical event, but the dates didn’t line up,” he said. The event sees participants camp out overnight at Akoonah Park, while members of each team alternate completing the relay throughout the 24-hour period. “You don’t have to stay on the track all night, but we encourage teams to have at least one person on the track at all times to get the most out of your relay experience,” Mr Gargaro said. This year the Casey relay has been stripped back to 18 hours to make for an easier return to the fundraiser. Ahead of the event, Casey Relay For Life has raised more than $70,000 for the Cancer Council and has 424 relayers and 32 teams enrolled to take on the relay this weekend. Mr Gargaro said community members can also sign up to the event on the day and encouraged post-event donations. The relay will kick off with an opening ceremony at 6pm and will include a candlelight ceremony to recognise community members

A relay team at the 2019 Casey Relay for Life. 190685 who have passed away from cancer, a survivors and carers walk, and a closing ceremony on the Saturday. Entertainment, kids activities, food trucks and live music and a free breakfast will also be available to enjoy. This year’s event is a sentimental one for long-standing organising committee chair and cancer survivor Donna Harrison, who will pass on the leadership baton to a new committee member for next year’s relay. “Its been an inspirational journey, as a cancer survivor myself, to take the stage and lead the team and put on these events over the last eight years as a chair, and 15 years at the event altogether, its incredible. it’s an absolute honour,” she said. Mrs Harrison said she was only given 24 hours to live when she was diagnosed with cancer and has “fought back extremely hard” to be where she is today.

Picture: ROB CAREW

“It’s been a very proud moment in my life and to watch the Casey Relay grow from 2004 when they had about 12 teams and we grew it up to 130 teams at our 10 year anniversary and to fight our way throughout Covid where a lot of events have closed down... it’s a big moment for Casey Relay on Friday and it’s great to have the support of the community. “ “It’s definitely been a pleasure and it’s with a sad heart that I stand down, but I think you have to have a changing of the guards at some stage. The organising committee are all volunteers who have worked “extremely hard” to get the event up and running again Mr Gargaro said. The 2023 Casey Relay For Life will commence at Akoonah Park on Friday 3 March at 6pm and will conclude at 12pm on Saturday 4 March. To sign up or to donate, head to relayforlife. org.au/event/casey-2023/home pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

YOUR COUNCIL UPDATE

Our local heroes -----Congratulations to our 2023 Australia Day award winners and nominees. The winners are: • Citizen of the year: Shelley Beardshaw • Senior citizen of the year: Audrey Dodson • Young citizen of the year: Ace Simpson-Braden • Community event of the year: Cardinia Men’s Shed ‘Senior-tivity Day’ Read about their amazing contributions to our community on our website.

www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/australiaday

Business brekkies are back

Consider it granted

The Cardinia Business Networking Breakfast will focus on ways that businesses can save money on energy bills and move towards more environmentally sustainable practices.

2022 Stan Henwood Award winner Tim Ahern.

Recognise a community legend by nominating them for our 2023 Stan Henwood Award.

Thursday 23 March Cardinia Cultural Centre, Pakenham Tickets $28

The award recognises people who have made outstanding, long-term contributions to our local community.

Community capital works grants Grants of up to $35,000. Community wellbeing and support grants Grants of up to $5,000. Festival and events grants Grants of up to $10,000. Weed control grants Grants of up to $750.

Nominations close midnight 3 March, and the winner will be announced at our Volunteer Reception in May. www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/StanHenwoodaward

Applications are now open for a range of grants to support community projects, events, and initiatives that boost the wellbeing of our communities.

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www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/grants

Connect magazine goes digital

Have your say

Sign up to get the Connect e-newsletter. www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/connectsubscribe

Jump online to provide feedback on current projects. www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/haveyoursay

Pencil in these waste events

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Council’s waste drop-offs are kicking off soon. www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/dropoff

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pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

Thursday, 2 March, 2023

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STAR NEWS 7

NEWS

Flippin’ sweet pancakes Roughly 400 pancakes made their appearance at the 13th annual Pancakes in the Park. Hosted by the Lynbrook Residents Association (LRA), Pancakes in the Park has become a staple of community togetherness and fun. Tuesday 21 February saw long queues of pancake-hungry locals and the LRA team working tirelessly to deliver. Close to 180 locals came together for the pancakes and the pancake-themed games. “The pancake games were a hit as always, and we were thrilled to have several Lynbrook businesses on board supporting this event by donating prizes,” said Vanessa Watson, LRA member. “This annual event is always a crowd favourite, especially with the kids, as it’s one day a year many parents let their kids eat pancakes with a sweet topping for dinner. I know mine do. “The Lynbrook Residents Association is proud to host this annual event to give back to our amazing community and we love seeing people come together and have a good time.”

Committee member, and secretary of the Lynbrook Residents Association, Dish Johnson helping run the pancake games with a group of eager kids.

Cooking 12 pancakes at a time was the only way the team could keep up with the never ending queue.

A queue of hungry event-goers keen to try some pancakes served by the dedicated team of volunteers.

The three winners of the girls pancake toss game with committee members Esther and Cally. 8 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 2 March, 2023

Young volunteer Jazz Gleeson cooking up a storm of pancakes.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

It is estimated the team served over 400 pancakes. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

FOCUS ON … EDUCATION CHOICES

Students engage individualised learning experiences.

Passionate educators

St Patrick’s students enjoy the reading activities.

School off to a great start As Principal of St Patrick’s Primary School Pakenham, I am pleased to welcome back all my amazing students and their families to another school year. It is an incredible privilege to watch our young people begin new adventures, take on new challenges and make new friends. As a Catholic school, next week we celebrate Ash Wednesday and remember the sacrifices that our Saviour made for us. This year, the teachers are speaking to the students about how we can have a change of heart. We know that Christ made the ultimate sacrifice for us so that we could live on to spread his message of love. It is important that the students understand that these sacrifices can hopefully pave the way for a new and brighter direction and look to how they can be the positive change for all. Already so much has happened in our first few weeks. We have had our beginning of the year

mass where we presented all our captains with their badges. Last Friday, Fr Paul celebrated mass with our Foundation students as they experienced mass for the first time. Fr Paul commended the students on their behaviour as did many parishioners. Next week, our Grade 2s begin their swimming lessons. The implementation of NAPLAN for our 3s and 5s begins in a few weeks, so school is off to an incredible start. As a staff we are promoting our whole school approach to positive behaviour and it has been so pleasing to see the students respond well to this. The students move safely through the school, they look out for one another and are able to articulate and demonstrate or values of Respect, Safety, Co-operation and Resilience!

The teachers at St James Primary School have seen a significant improvement in student outcomes in reading, writing and spelling since incorporating the Little Learners Love Literacy program into the junior classrooms. The teachers use Little Learners to support their students with explicit and sequential literacy teaching. It is backed by research, focuses on phonemic awareness, the alphabetic code (phonics), vocabulary and links the teaching of reading, spelling and writing. Teachers have commented on how the students are showing an increased confidence towards completing learning tasks independently and how their data has shown a significant improvement in students reading accuracy and fluency. Student input and voice in learning is an important focus for the staff at the school. They asked students Isacc, Scarlett, Sonny and Piper what they like about

learning at St James. “When we come to school we look forward to learning new stuff, we are excited to learn a new letter sound.” “Learning is fun at St James, we love playing games.” “We can always ask a teacher or a friend for help.” “St James is a nice school where we are be safe and respectful.” “It’s the nicest school in the world because the teachers are the best, they help us learn and take care of us.” There was also lots of chatter about loving to see the moo cows, reflective of St James’ beautiful semi-rural setting. 2024 Foundation Enrolments and school tours are now available. Please call Rebecca in the school office on (03) 5942 5404 to book a school tour.

St James Catholic School Committed to your child’s academic, spiritual & emotional development Where every student is known, nurtured & respected.

ENROL NOW FOR 2024 | 5942 5404

Meg Escalante, Principal

60 Nar Nar Goon Rd, Nar Nar Goon https://www.stjamesnng.catholic.edu.au/

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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 12592158-AA09-23

Ph: 5943 9000 or email office@stppakenham.catholic.edu.au to book a school tour OPEN DAYS Thursday the 23rd of March and Wednesday the 29th of March Come by our school between 9:30am - 2:30pm on these days for a School tour from our leadership team!

136 Princes Highway, Pakenham | www.stppakenham.catholic.edu.au | (03) 5943 9000 pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

Thursday, 2 March, 2023

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STAR NEWS 9

FOCUS ON … EDUCATION CHOICES

Grow through connection Thinking about a secondary school enrolment for 2023? The new Principal of Pakenham Secondary College, Mr. Aaron Smith, invites you to consider Pakenham Secondary College for your child next year and beyond. “Our excellent reputation in the local community in best supporting our students with their learning and wellbeing continues to grow - we are a school that is ‘on the move’. We have made a number of changes in 2022 which will further benefit our students moving forward. “Our new College Motto, ‘We Grow Through Connection’ will best support our College Community in the years to come. Growth and improvement are linked to the positive relationships and connections we have with others. “At Pakenham Secondary College, ‘We Grow Through Connection’, valuing the strong sense of community and teamwork that exists between students, families and staff’. “Our new Motto aligns well with our SOAR Values of Social and Personal Responsibility, Opportunities for All, Achieving Personal Best and Respectful Relationships’. “At Pakenham Secondary College, we are committed to positive relationships. We understand that student growth is linked to the positive and meaningful connections they have with others. As a College, we are dedicated to further improving the learning and wellbeing outcomes of all of our students by building respectful, positive and productive connections with our College Community.” Pakenham Secondary College strives to provide opportunities in areas important to our College Community - Growth in Learning and Wellbeing, Sport, the Performing Arts, Student Leadership and Our Community. With a hardworking and dedicated staff, we are com-

The new college motto, ‘We Grow Through Connection’. mitted to working with our families to provide as many opportunities as we can for our students in these important areas of the College. “With a rich 50-year history in our region, we are well placed to offer a personalised approach to teaching and learning ensuring that

we work with all of our students to tailor individualised pathways that are important to them. We provide outstanding opportunities for our students in the classroom and as part of our co-curricular program. “I welcome families to the Pakenham Sec-

ondary College Community. I very much look forward to showing prospective families around our great school as part of a College Tour - please visit our College Website at pakenhamsc.vic.edu.au or contact our General Office on 5945 1433.”

We Grow Through Connection

S ocial and Personal Responsibility O pportunities For All A chieving Personal Best R espect and Relationships

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Our students are offered multiple pathways and a large range of programs to engage with their diverse interests, aspirations and strengths. Contact us for a College Tour through our website or call the office to learn more about our great school.

Please visit our website or call our office to book a tour

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Thursday, 2 March, 2023

pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

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

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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 pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

Thursday, 2 March, 2023

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STAR NEWS 11

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Thursday, 2 March, 2023

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Thursday, 2 March, 2023

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STAR NEWS 13

NEWS

Heavy atmosphere at the Sri Lankan music fest. 321359

Lots of zest from Infinity band members. 321359

Infinity rocks the festival There were no limits to headline band Infinity’s fun-loving ways at the Sri Lankan Summer Fest at Dandenong Showgrounds on Saturday 25 February. With more than 1500 tickets sold, the crowds flocked to the concert featuring acts Rookantha, Wasthi, Kanchana, Supun and Infinity.

The band Infinity brought energy to the festival. 321359

The crowd was up at Dandenong Showgrounds. 321359 14 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 2 March, 2023

Pictures: GARY SISSONS

Infinity band members lit the night. 321359 pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Michelle’s Maulers team: Meaghan McKinnon, Courtney Barbour, Brooke Skilton, Joanne Hyde, Sara Bremner, Michelle Stevens, Ashley Paterson, Jodie Lovell, Nicole Bidey, Sharna Amoruso and Nicole Ray.

Ned and Fox.

Kate Alexander and Katherine Haddock.

Cricket mums raise funds Pearcedale Cricket Club mums have put their cricket skills to the test. On Sunday 26 February, dressed in pink regalia, two teams of mums went head-to-head at the stumps. Renae’s Rockets and Michelle’s Maulers used their game to raise funds to support the McGrath Foundation and the important work they do in breast cancer research and support services. The team smashed their $3000 goal, with a final tally of $3489. “It was another great day, and it is the highlight of the cricket club’s social calendar,” Pearcedale Cricket Club committee member Renae Smith said. “The flamingos did their job to raise awareness and we had a great turn out. “Michelle’s Maulers won the game, again, by just one run! “We really do have an amazing community, and I want to thank all the amazing ladies, and kids, who put their hand up to play, and to everyone else who helped on the day to make it a success.”

All of the players.

Katie Gates, Jodie Lovell, Sara Bremner, Donna Williams and Ashley Paterson.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Cricket mums show off their skills.

Cara-lee Grant bowling.

The official game details.

Baked treats by Frauke Lever. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

Club president Andrew Williams does the bat toss.

Stella and Mackealey. Thursday, 2 March, 2023

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STAR NEWS 15

NEWS

Keeping stray dogs safe By Emily Chapman Laing Few things cause pet owners the egregious anxiety of a lost pet. Local online community noticeboards are ground zero for “lost dog” posts, with multiple posts seen in Casey suburb social pages each week. However, these pages can also be the difference between a long lost pup and a happy reunion. One local woman, Dana Begovic, went through an emotional maelstrom in late February after her Kelpie Tilly went missing. On Friday 24 February, Tilly’s family woke up to find her missing. “We found the gate open at 5.30 in the morning. We thought she took off possibly after a fox,” Dana explained. After posting in lost dog groups and putting paid ads up to no avail, Dana and her family began posting in local community groups in the hopes someone would recognise Tilly. “That’s really how we found her,” Dana said. “Someone took a picture with a sighting of a dog running. [A woman] recognised her [as Tilly] possibly because of the red collar. “She reported it to the Endeavour Hills Community Group.” This post led to Dana receiving the call that led Tilly back to her family. Offline, the Endeavour Hills community sacrificed their time and effort to assist with the search for Tilly. “We had people taking their dogs for walks and looking in the area. “We had people just walking, looking. People were walking out of their houses saying, ‘We’ve been checking the street, we’ve been checking the park.’ “I could not believe the response from the community group. I have never met a commu-

Tilly had roamed five kilometres from home. Picture: SUPPLIED nity like Endeavour Hills.” Tilly was found five kilometres away from Dana’s home in Rowville. Dana admitted she would never have thought to search that far, and that she was lucky her post ended up in the right community group. “Put [posts] in your local community and then go a couple of suburbs out,” Dana recommends. “And if you see a dog, take a quick snapshot and put it on your community page. “The community groups [are] the best thing.” Tilly returned home safe and sound after three days of running and hiding. In order to save owners from the stress, worry and anguish that comes hand in hand with a missing pooch, RSPCA Peninsula Animal Care Team Leader Elise Bennell also explains the professional take on how to keep our furry companions safe and what to do if your dog has gone missing.

Peter Rabbit

Escaping is a common behaviour in dogs, triggered by a variety of things, including boredom, loneliness, curiosity, anxiety and mateseeking. “We always recommend keeping your dog in a secure area with gates and doors that can be locked,” Elise said. “Dogs wearing an appropriate harness or collar can also be more easily stopped from escaping past someone as they enter or exit a space.” While it is the duty of all pet owners to ensure we care for our pets responsibly, sometimes pooches are simply too mischievous and opportunistic in their desire to roam free. “If you think your pet has escaped, your first contact should be your local council,” Elise said. “Your local council will have a pound facility where your lost pet will be taken if it has been picked up in your area. “Owners can also contact RSPCA Victoria to create a lost pet report, where we can conduct a search for your pet in RSPCA shelters.” Community social pages are also useful, as many dogs are reunited with their owners after a Facebook post from another community member. So, what is the protocol if you are the one to find someone’s missing pet? “If it is safe to do so, try and confine the lost pet to a safe space, such as your backyard if it’s a dog,” Elise said. “Then, arrange for the animal to be taken to a council pound, an approved animal welfare organisation or an approved premise e.g., a veterinary practice. “The shelter or organisation can scan the pet for a microchip and try to contact their owner. “If the animal is injured or needs urgent vet treatment, take the animal to a vet ASAP. You can also drop the lost pet into an RSPCA shelter, or a closer shelter.

“It’s important to remember a lost animal is likely to be feeling stressed and anxious and so they may behave in an unpredictable way.” The idea of our beloved pets landing in council pounds and shelters can be frightening. Dog rescue group Rescue Hub specialises in promoting dogs impounded in local pounds and animal shelters to give them the best chance of reunion with their owners. While it is general practice for stray dogs to be taken to pounds and shelters, this can often be the beginning of a ticking time bomb. “Then the waiting game begins, with the time depending on if the dog is microchipped or not,” the Rescue Hub team explains. “Dogs that are not microchipped are then given seven days in which time the owner can come forward to claim their dog with proof of ownership. “Dogs that are chipped are given up to 16 days for the owners to come forward. “This is the moment we all hope and pray the dog goes home to their lovely family but unfortunately this is not the case all too often.” For as much as owners are waiting and hoping to hear that someone has found their pup, it is equally important that owners take initiative in checking every avenue that could possibly lead to the location of their pet. However, the best way to ensure our dogs’ safety is to take preventative measures to reduce the likelihood they will go missing in the first place. “Prevention is always better than a cure. Safety is so important for animals,” Elise said. “If an anxious animal were to scale a fence and escape, this could be exposed to an unfamiliar environment that leads to an accident. “Having your pet microchipped and registered with your latest contact details and address significantly improves their chance of being returned home safe and sound.”

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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, 2 March, 2023

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NEWS

Berwick hits the big screen By Eleanor Wilson Film buffs can catch a glimpse of Berwick on the silver screen later this year, as local filmmaker Gabriel Carrubba presents his debut feature film Sunflower. Set and shot in the heart of Berwick, Mr Carrubba, who wrote and directed the queer coming-of-age drama, described it as a “semiautobiographical take on my experience growing up”. “It’s about a teenager named Leo and his experience coming to terms with his sexuality and his journey to self acceptance and finding love,” Mr Carrubba said. The 26-year-old has called Berwick home since he was two years old, attending Berwick Lodge Primary School and Berwick College - both of which appear in the film alongside several other frequented spots throughout Berwick and surrounding suburbs. The 80-minute film, which was written and shot over throughout the pandemic, was in part a chance for Mr Carrubba to comes to terms with his own sexuality. “I had just come out to my parents, I think it was more of a way of me just wanting to get things off my chest, because it kind of gets to a point where you want to tell everyone,” he said. “You want to talk to people because you’ve been hiding it for so long, so I thought the best way to do that is to make a film like this.” He said shooting his first feature film in familiar territory was a cathartic experience. “It was almost like a form of therapy in a way and I think through shooting in these areas it’s very nostalgic - even sometimes the way the light hits the road. “We were shooting one afternoon and the way the light was just hitting the pavement. I was like, oh my god that just reminds me of

Berwick local Gabriel Carrubba hopes his debut feature film Sunflower will find success at local Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS and international film festivals this year. 321294_06 this specific afternoon.” The young filmmaker said he hopes the film helps young people in a similar situation to recognise they are not alone in their struggles. “I want kids that are in school now that are struggling, perhaps with their sexuality or their gender identity, to realise that this moment in their lives, this six-year period, is just a very brief period and it does as corny as it sounds, it does get better. “When I was in school, I felt like I was the only person going through that sort of thing, so I think part of me wants people to realise that there are others out there, just like you, that are going through what you’re going through and it’s gonna be okay.” But cinephiles who are not part of the LGBTQIA+ community can also benefit from the story. “It wasn’t until after we finished shooting that I realised the film is also for parents, and

anyone who’s not a part of the community, just people that might not really understand,” Mr Carrubba said. “I think it’s a way to kind of build empathy and show people that you don’t really know what everyone’s going through...just promoting the message that it’s just important to be kind and treat people the way you’d want to be treated.” The film’s title is metaphoric of its story line, Mr Carrubba said. “When a sunflower hasn’t bloomed it’s kind of an ugly looking flower, but then when it’s bloomed, it’s beautiful. So I think in a similar way, one suppressing their sexuality. “It’s kind of ugly and they’re going through a lot and then once the flower blooms, they come into themselves and it’s beautiful.” Sunflower is currently in post-production and was recently awarded $15,000 funding from Queer Screen in Sydney, receiving a wealth of praise from judges, which included

Sunflower is a coming-of-age drama exploring themes of sexuality. It stars lead actor Liam Mollica as Leo. Cinematography by Martine Wolff. The Dressmaker producer Sue Maslin, festival and special events manager Madman Entertainment Paul Tonta and general manager and creative director of BBC Studios Australia and New Zealand Kylie Washington. “We needed some money to finish the film. So I thought, well, we’ll just apply, we’ll see what happens. So I applied, and the jury really loved it.” The big dream, Mr Carrubba said, is to make it into the highly revered Cannes Film Festival. “We’ve submitted to them so fingers crossed, that’d be great. “We’re hoping to play at Melbourne International Film Festival as well - it would be good to play at home- and in Sydney and there’s a few others in Europe that we are interested in, starting in May.” Sunflower is due to be completed in about six weeks and will premiere later this year.

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Thursday, 2 March, 2023

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STAR NEWS 17

WHAT’S ON International Women’s Day at Living Learning Pakenham

Pub Rock Exhibition

Living Learning Pakenham is holding an event to celebrate International Women’s Day with special guest speakers over morning tea. Abiola Ajetomobi will be presenting a talk on women’s equality today and the achievement of women. Abiola is the director of the Asylum Seeker Resources Centre and has for many years in management and leadership in local and state governments, as well as not-for-profit organisations. There will be a panel to discuss equality in the workforce and community, as well as celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. The event will also be accompanied by a morning tea. Wednesday 8 March from 9.30am to 12pm at Living Learning Pakenham, 6B Henry Street, Pakenham.

The Cardinia Cultural Centre is exhibiting a new collection of photos depicting the lively music scene of ‘70s and ‘80s Australia. Drawn from the National Portrait Gallery’s collection of works by music photographers Tony Mott and Wendy McDougall, the exhibition showcases snaps of live performances and backstage antics of celebrated bands such as AC/DC, Midnight Oil and The Divinyls. The exhibition runs from 10 February to 9 April.

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Pakenham Show The 2023 Parklea Pakenham and District Agriculture and Horticulture Show will feature rural excellence, marvellous art and craft displays, iconic events and competitions, a stage with multicultural dances, meet and greet the PAW Patrol characters - Chase, Marshall, Skye and Rubble along with new and returning attractions for people of all ages. Come along and support this free community event, and celebrate our 112th show. Saturday 18 March at PB Ronald Reserve, Pakenham.

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Harewood Heritage Day

A community show which families can attend once a year. Please encourage your friends and family to attend from 9am to 3pm and get behind this local community event. The main show

Yakkerboo Festival A family friendly event held each year that includes fun parades, carnival rides, food trucks and market stalls. It goes over Saturday and Sun-

day, starting with a carnival the evening of Saturday and Sunday will be the main day of fun parades, food and stalls that will take over the park. PB Ronald Reserve, Saturday 29 April from 5pm, Sunday 30 April from 11am.

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Berwick Pakenham Historical Society meeting The second meeting of 2023 for the Berwick

Local news from Pakenham & Officer... Find out all the local news for Pakenham & Officer. Pick up the Pakenham Officer Star News from local outlets listed below or subscribe to our digital edition and have it sent to your device each week. To read all the in depth news, sport and information from across the region buy the Pakenham Gazette from supermarkets, services stations and outlets. Just $2 and worth every cent!

Pakenham Historical Society will be on 3 March. Valued long-time local researcher Penny Harris Jennings will speak on her latest research discoveries, ‘History and Rewriting History’. All are welcome. Contact the secretary at BPHS1961@gmail.com if necessary. Friday 3 March, 8pm, at the museum, 85 Princes Highway Service Road, Pakenham.

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Shift in focus

Show is back on track

Exhibitors, volunteers, sponsors and spectators were Changes are being thrilled to be back made to the Casey at P.B Ronald Reserve Foundation, which Cardinia for klea Pakenham Show the 111th Parsolely as the Cardiniawill potentially be known on Saturday. Foundation. Spoiled with sunny The foundation weather, the is making the show was the first to transition to decision a Cardinia-only Covid-19 shutdownsone back since body to strengthen not for in 2020 and profit organisations help 2021. community. in the It was a bumper Director Paul Thomas tainment with plenty day of entersaid the board yet to approve has of high qualthe new direction ity poultry, sheep transform the foundation. that will and exhibits, reminiscent horticulture “Throughout the of the district’s pandemic, like rural roots. Casey Cardinia Foundation ganisations that director Paul Thomas are philanthropic, most or- says the foundation dation has had the founmay be shifting its little focus to carry out fundraising to no opportunities to Cardinia only. 198803 COVERAGE PAGES - we have continued 16-17 grants process so our the out, but we haven’t funds have been going their own organisation. really had monies ing in because The foundation comJunior Ambassador our fundraising was mainly grants process and currently has an annual through events,” of the Parklea Mr Thomas Pakenham Show is Sheridan Venables per cent of its assets. required to give back four “We took the opportunitysaid. (left) with Senior Ambassador Indi to go strategic review If approved by the Skehan. 271091 over the last couple through a board, the foundation Picture: ROB CAREW years. only give out to Cardinia “The review indicated will based organisations. we need to fund organisation properly Beaconhills College Mr Thomas said the to ensure we’re once the changes fundraise to the Class for VCE Dance.student Ruby Thornton-Mackay has able to proved, the foundation are aplevel we need to, been chosen will and ultimate- at a whole be able to operate to perform at Top ly give out significant new level. funds Picture: SUPPLIED “We will have significantto the community. “It will mean we support from the Cardinia can make a difference Cardinia Shire.” to organisations through Cardinia Shire our grants process,” Mr Thomas councillor Jack said. said it was important Kowarzik “There was an By Jonty Ralphsmith to continue to provide Ruby Thornton-Mac the foundation spreading ourselves argument that we were with financial support. too thin and this Casey also recorded training has paid kay’s 13 years of dance outstanding The“By City reinvigorating us in will hone of Casey recorded off, to a smaller territory. the the foundation of the best students being named one who have VCE performing arts students the third we work withofphilanthropist with 5174 – 231 fewer most family incinumber highest can dents Houses criminal offences completed; who undertook “Cardinia than in 2020. the s in the is growing at such Dance inwere VCE Music Investigation, Music Performance, incommunity. 2021 of any we In better news, Victorian 2021. top location for offences “With the a rapid rate so with 5833 offences localcompletion governmentofarea. deception offences, Music Style can concentratethe number occurring in the of criminal this strategic re- cidents view, Ruby has been some significant public order and position, VCE household. offences, it would inThe the City ofon ects thatinreally Criminal and Combe short Stealing selected to perform VET Music Industry, security Casey was sighted to wrap from a motor Statistics can make the Melbourne down 17.2projfoundation.” vehicle was the most at Drama justice procedures Dance, cent from 2020 to a difference up the community.” its released 2021 data on Thursday Agency Recital in per the common 2021. Centre later this fences. and Theatre Studies. - except drug ofmonth offence, 17 March, revealingCasey as part followed by breach family Caseyjoined Ruby said she was of Top Class The highest number recorded violence order, Cardinia the 19,680 foundation Shire Council Hampton of Excellence, criminal Season ceived offences, of will in 2013 offences only is choosing Park (1868grateful damage,VCE have rebehind Greaterto but cial occurred managed in Cranbourne provide in 2020tocompared Geelong honour make an support to the finan- andCurriculum theft 1453 inthe by theother common assault. (20,018) withfoundation performing exit as Victorian 1863, followed and they 2021), Narreof Melbourne (1629), (33,597). ate their focus her skills- to based dance and by first for the Warren (2627 in Berwick and undergo changesreevalu- years, solo which Narre with five theWarren In Berwick, total Assessment Authority as 2020, 2123 she in 2021), (VCAA). goal to grow (1533), within (1022) theHampton part ofNarre offences were down Warren Northchoreographed foundation a pointand her extermination Park where to to 2157 (352 Cranbourne it will be able 2475 last 2020, 323 in 2021) for withseason theinsubject The North a decrease in all to (999). year.and Narre Warren South run on its own. offence 11 concerts divisions – crimes against presents also recorded the person, property by decreases in the annual number Read moreof and oncrimes. page 2 Continued page 3

Crime concerns

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Harewood House will be open for tours for the annual Harewood Heritage Day event. Other local historical displays, traditional trades and craft demonstrations, period costumes, vintage cars and live entertainment will also feature on the day. Sunday 2 April from 10am to 3pm, 3300 South Gippsland Highway, Kooweerup (next to the Tooradin Airfield).

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.

Pick up your Star News newspaper from these local outlets... • Officer - The Timber Mill Cafe 4 Cotswold Crescent

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NEWS

Simple onboarding steps TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS IAN ASH Starting a new role with a business can be pretty nerve-wracking, even for experienced employees. There seems to be so much to learn – getting to know team members, protocols and standards, systems and processes and, of course, the company products and services. It may well feel like the new member is drinking from the proverbial fire-hose for the first few weeks. However, the transition into a new role can be made much more pleasant, effective and efficient through the employer putting in place some simple steps. The process begins right from the initial recruitment stage. These days, interviews are very much a two-way street with the prospective employee trying to determine if the role will be a good fit for them as much as the employer is seeking to find out if the candidate is the right person. It is important during this two-way dialogue that the employer both sells the benefits of working in the company as well as communicates all associated requirements. For example, if the role is going to require some out-of-hours or anti-social hours working, it must be made clear upfront otherwise misaligned expectations will undoubtedly get the relationship off to a bad start when the candidate joins on day one. All jobs have good and some not-so-good elements to them and not being transparent

It’s important to make a new employee feel welcomed. about these from the start will not only lead to disappointment, it also undermines trust from the outset. Introduction into a company can be made considerably easier if the employer has an induction checklist or induction program defining specific orientation tasks over a given timeframe. This typically includes things like provision of required equipment (eg. mobile phone, lap-

top, pass keys, etc), issuing of, or reference to, company policies and procedures, organisation chart and position description, explanation of required work practices and potentially a training plan. Last but not least is the introduction to company values which are hopefully already well entrenched in the business and are often best done by the boss. Apart from these practical items, there is a

very real need to consider the people element as an integral part of the induction process. The assignment of a buddy or mentor to whom this person can turn during those first few weeks to ask for support or guidance is often a good idea. This person should be carefully selected and choosing someone with similar interests, hobbies and/or technical skills can do much to make the new start feel like they already have a friend in the business. A morning coffee or afternoon tea can be a good way to introduce the new start as well, but bear in mind these sorts of introductions may feel a little intimidating for shyer people. It is important at some stage during the first or second day that the buddy/mentor or manager show the new employee around the work environment so they get to meet other employees and get an early feel for the company culture. To this end, staff in the environment should be advised of the new person’s name, role within the business and their line manager well in advance so that there are no awkward moments when the employee is being shown around. Following the initial introduction, in order for the new member to properly settle in, they should be invited to all relevant meetings (even if they don’t yet have a full grasp on the role) and social events. It is useful for the new start’s line manager to follow up directly with the person after one week, one month and three months to check on how things are going from a settling in perspective. The old adage that you only get one chance to make a first impression really applies to this situation. Ian Ash is the managing director of OrgMent Business Solutions.

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Amith’s 307 to remember By Marcus Uhe It was a day that Amith Eranda and everyone who watched him at Chandler Recreation Reserve on Saturday will likely never forget. When the Sri Lankan batter came to the crease, Emerald had reached 2/106 in the 34th over, needing a win over Pakenham Upper Toomuc and other results to fall their way to qualify for finals action. By the time he left, the scoreboard read 5/554, thanks to his incredible triple century. To fully appreciate the innings, you have to look at the scorecard, where Eranda required a second row in the scorers’ book to record all his shots. Depositing balls into the surrounding shrubs and fauna at will, Eranda finished not out on 307 from just 139 deliveries, with 20 sixes and 27 fours, having put-on 308 for the last wicket with Michael Nell off 26.3 overs. A single on the leg side brought-up the milestone, eliciting rapturous applause from those watching on the balcony. Eranda, whose previous highest score was 255 during a junior cricket game in Sri Lanka, said he felt like he was ‘in’ early in the innings. “The first few boundaries felt good so I kept going, there was no need to stop,” Eranda said. “I talked to Owen (Thorne) about what the plan is and he said “try to bat positive”. “After the first hundred I was going for the 150, then the 200, step-by-step.” So extraordinary was the feat that not even those closest to him could fathom what they heard, and needed proof from the man himself. “After the game I called my sister, she was very happy. I called my girlfriend, she was very happy,” the triple-century maker said. “Everyone couldn’t believe it, but I said ‘it’s true, I made 300’. “I sent the scorecard and it was put on Facebook, and everyone tagged me, I got a lot of messages.” Five overs breached the 20-run mark, while

The scorecard has to be seen to be believed! 321361

Amith Eranda hit 307 not out for Emerald in CCCA District cricket on Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS Saturday. 321502 a boundary was scored in every over between 55th and 71st. The last 10 overs yielded 107 alone. Sixes were falling just as hard as the rain on Saturday afternoon as the Yabbies tried just about everything to put the brakes on Eranda, from suggesting play should be stopped because of the wet weather, to wicketkeeper and captain Prabath Kobbekaduwa taking the pads off and rolling the arm over. Ben McLeod bore the brunt of the onslaught, with his 34 overs costing 191 runs after taking two early wickets.

Picture: SUPPLIED

The moment Eranda reached his triple century with a whip off his pads into the leg side. 321362 Picture: SUPPLIED

One four-over spell resulted in 70 runs scored alone. Bombers’ President Clinton Marsh was in awe of Eranda’s performance. “It was incredible to watch, the best batting you could ever wish to see,” he said. “We were all very lucky to be on hand to witness it.” Having hit 219 runs from his previous six innings this season, the 307 takes his 2022/23 season average from a very respectable 43.8 to a jarring 75.14.

His knock completely overshadowed his captain Owen Thorne’s innings of 101, his second hundred of the district season. Pakenham Upper Toomuc would have felt they were in the contest early, with McLeod removing Ethan Crosher for 18 and Michael Hoban taking 95 balls to reach 25. But between Thorne and Eranda, the two scored 73 per cent of their team’s imposing total, to give themselves the best possible chance of qualifying for finals, should the bowlers hold-up their end of the bargain this week.

Exciting times as cards fall nicely for Shuffle Dancer By David Nagel When it comes to his thoroughbreds - Pakenham trainer Peter Moody has always had a way with the girls and his charming ways continued on a big day of racing at Sandown Lakeside on Saturday. The trainer of champion mare Black Caviar doubled his lead as the most winning trainer of the $300,000 Group 2 Angus Armanasco Stakes (1400m) after his exciting prospect Shuffle Dancer overcome the odds to thump the field of three-year-old fillies. Jockey Ben Melham – who won last year’s edition of the Armanasco on Lavish Girl – settled back in the field from a tricky gate before sitting three and four wide the trip. Shuffle Dancer showed great constitution to wear down Royal Merchant in the shadows of the post, edging to the lead with 50 metres to run and proving too strong to the line. The Moody camp has now won four Armanascos - following the wins of Set For Fame (2010), Meliora (2013) and Spirits Dance (2014) – with Danny O’Brien, Lee Freedman and Pat Hyland having two wins each. Katherine Coleman, assistant trainer to Moody at Pakenham, said the daughter of I Am Invincible/Palace Talk showed maturity beyond her six-start career to grind out the victory. “I thought she was super, she was tough today, she did get a little nice cart into it but I thought she was good through the line,” Coleman said. “She has had a little freshen up between runs and I think she’ll improve from this but she was still strong through the line.” Coleman and Melham devised a careful plan before the race, based around keeping Shuffle Dancer out of trouble from barrier 22 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 2 March, 2023

Pakenham trained Shuffle Dancer wears down Royal Merchant to win the Group 2 Angus Picture: MORGAN HANCOCK Armanasco Stakes at Sandown on Saturday. 321356

Jockey Ben Melham brings Shuffle Dancer back to scale after their impressive win at Picture: SCOTT BARBOUR Sandown. 321356

nine in the 10-horse field. “That was Ben’s concern pre-race, we thought it might be a bit sticky from that gate but he did a good job getting her into that spot,” Coleman said. “That was really important black type for her today and then she’ll probably head towards the Kewney now.” Melham will more than likely be aboard in the $300,000 Group 2 Kewney Stakes – to be run at Flemington on Saturday 11 March - after making it back-to-back wins on the filly. “She’s a good filly, she hasn’t got a lot of good tactical speed and in today’s race that was my concern,” Melham said. “From an awkward draw it was a tricky speed map, but I was able to get a bit of cover

of a trip and she’ll allow herself to do so with her racing manners.” Shuffle Dancer has now won three of her six career starts, amassing more than $320,000 in prizemoney. Cranbourne trainers Ciaron Maher and David Eustace bagged training honours on the day with a winning treble, while Group 1 wins went to Little Brose (Ben and JD Hayes) in the Blue Diamond, Alligator Blood (Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott) in the Futurity Stakes and to Queensland trainers Steve O’Dea and Matt Hoysted with Uncommon James in the Oakleigh Plate. Group 1 racing will move from Sandown to Flemington this week with the running of the time-honoured $1million Australian Guineas (1600m).

from Dear Jewel for the first part of the race. “It followed on outside of the leader and I was able to flush She’s Licketysplit out and get a good cart from it around the turn. “It’s a good training performance because he had to put her on ice for a little bit. “She had a trial to keep her up to the mark. “She was quite warm behind the barriers and I imagine she’ll improve again from that.” Melham was unsure whether Shuffle Dancer would get much further than the seven furlongs. “She’s got good determination and desire to win, she’s pretty straightforward, but I’m not sure,” he said. “It wouldn’t shock me if she could get a bit

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Expecting the unexpected By David Nagel Are we about to witness one of those weird and whacky moments that only sport can seem to deliver…that not even a Hollywood scriptwriter could dream up? With only one afternoon remaining in the CCCA Premier Division, only three things are locked in stone. Kooweerup will finish third, and Cardinia fourth, while a mid-to-late season rally from Carlisle Park has the Vikings entrenched as a Premier Division staple next year. But that’s it…the remaining chapters have more twists and turns than an Agatha Christie classic! Do you want the good news or bad news first? The bad news you say…okay then, let’s have a look at the relegation battle; a battle that has suddenly grown from a desperate two to a frantic and anxious three. Officer………it is now in danger of relegation. Heading into round 14 the Bullants had the lowest percentage in the competition, born from the fact that it has lost the most wickets - and claimed the least - of all eight teams this season. But the Bullants did have a buffer…and two pretty-safe ones at that. Merinda Park (eighth) would need to defeat second-placed Pakenham, in addition to Clyde (seventh) getting the better of ladder-leaders Tooradin, on the banks of the Westernport, for the Bullants to be in danger. One, maybe…but both, that couldn’t possibly happen! But the bottom two are now in those difficult and arduous tasks right up to their eyeballs. Clyde delivered one of its best bowling performances of the season, rolling a suddenly out-of-form Seagulls batting line up for 151 on Saturday. Daniel Lever (3/36 off 19) delivered when his skipper Brett Reid (1/18 off 8) needed him most, using his craft and guile to spearhead the Cougars attack. Openers Kane Avard (2/16 off 11) and Nick Miles (2/20 off 9) were also effective as the Seagulls succumbed on the fourth-consecutive occasion. The dominant batting team either side of Christmas (7/322, 6/290, 5/302, 7/267, 3/277) has suddenly made batting look difficult. Their last four visits to the crease read 121, 102, 9/131 and now 151 – that’s 505 runs for 39 wickets lost, at an average of 13 runs per batter! Only Josh Lownds (31) could work his way into the 30s. It won’t cost the reigning champs a home

Cardinia skipper Jake Prosser returned to the fray on Saturday, making a valuable half century against Carlisle Park. 321202

“One more win and we’re safe.” That’s surely the message from Clyde’s Jason Hameeteman at Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS Tooradin on Saturday. 321201

A laid-back customer. Senal De Silva lets fly for the Vikings against Cardinia. 321202

The Cobras struck a vital blow in their eight overs with the ball, with left-hand spinner Perera (1/1 off 4) claiming the key wicket of Lions’ champion Chris Smith (1). The Cobras have nine wickets to get, and 182 runs to play with…as they into a seasondefining day two. And the battle to avoid relegation has now found a third home with Starling Road set to be a nervous place to be as the Bullants bunker down for a run-chase against Kooweerup (177) this Saturday. Although the odds are still stacked in their favour, with Clyde in a winning position and Merinda Park having the runs on the board, the Bullants need to treat this Saturday as a must-win outing. To avoid relegation on their terms – against a genuine premiership contender – now that’s the way to finish a season! It won’t be easy for the Bullants, despite a magnificent bowling performance from Kane Hawkins (5/75 off 29) who has been superimpressive since switching from Flinders just prior to the Christmas break. Hawkins has good pace but can stray in accuracy at times, but had everything in synch as he started his afternoon in style. Luke McMaster (0) bowled, Cody Miller (19) trapped in front, and Gamini Kumara (31) bowled; Hawkins had three victims as the Demons scraped their way to 4/59. The experiment of batting Chris Bright (32) at number-five paid off to an extent, with ‘Wombat’ producing a patient display by his own rollicking standards – facing 84 balls – and

sharing a 63-run stand with Steven Dillon (45). Jonty Bennie (3/55 off 20) and Leigh Boyle (2/14 off 7.3) were rock-solid for the Bullants, who will need to overcome in-form speedsters Jess Mathers and Luke McMaster to get anywhere near the choccies. And it’s rather ironic that Cardinia (203) will be the only team to head into this year’s finals series with consecutive scores of 200 under its belt after the Bulls recovered well to post a competitive total against Carlisle Park (1/15). The Bulls have been clearly the worst performed batting unit of the top four this season, but 5/276 against Officer, and now 203 against the Vikings, will give Jake Prosser (53) and his team some real confidence heading into next week’s away semi-final against either Pakenham or Tooradin. Prosser, returning from a broken hand, dropped himself down the order – and received the perfect acid test ahead of finals. What a perfect tune up, coming to the crease at 6/99 and having to overcome adversity to get his team to a potentially winning score. While the fate of the Kooweerup, Cardinia and Carlisle Park is clear, and the relegation battle explained, the battle for top spot - and a potential home grand final – is also as tight as a drum. Pakenham – facing a small percentage deficit to Tooradin heading into day one – currently leads the way, with a percentage of 1.7786 to the Seagulls 1.7353. It’s going to be a weird and whacky Saturday afternoon!

semi-final, or maybe even top spot, but it’s a trend that Cal O’Hare and his boys will need to rectify in a hurry. So, the Cougars now need 152 to win. Meanwhile, at Pakenham (1/15), Merinda Park (197) endured the worst possible start after appearing to be sent to the gallows by Lions’ skipper Dale Tormey. Tormey won the toss, sent the Cobras in, with Brad Hodge (0) back in the hut without the scorers having been troubled. An early flurry from classy import Michael De Iacovo (39) – which contained seven fours and one six – had the Cobras back on track before Tormey (5/64 off 24.3) and Tommy Tyrrell (4/37 off 15) ran riot through the middle order. The Cobras lost 3/0, slipping from 3/73 to 6/73, before Tormey removed Sasindu Perera (6) to make it 7/88. See’ya Cobras, you’re time in Premier Division is up…Clyde and Officer - you can breathe easy. But leadership and character comes in many forms, and Merinda Park stalwarts – skipper Andy Martin (47 not out) and Anthony ‘Crash’ Craddock (41) – restored some pride and hope for the visitors. Along with Tyson Bertrand (25), Martin and Craddock added a crucial 109-runs for the last three wickets…a weird and whacky moment. Tormey – $1.10 to win the Terry Stephenson Medal – bowled beautifully for the Lions, while Tyrrell is looming large as a key weapon come finals time. Tyrrell hits the bat hard, has good control, and is as sharp as he has been all season.

Missed doubles costly as Warriors crash with a thud By David Nagel The Warriors have finally been conquered. After an undefeated start to the South West Gippsland Dart League, the Warriors were brought crashing back down to earth with a stunning 13-2 loss to Just Social in round five of the season. Just Social – that played in both seasonal grand finals last year - were back to their brilliant best with Terry King leading the way. King threw the highest peg of the night, a brilliant 104, to help Just Social claim its third win of the season and move to outright fifth on the ladder. In a sign of a very tight competition, the Warriors drop from first to third after losing their first game for the season. Snipers are the new ladder-leaders after a powerhouse 12-3 victory over competition newcomers The Hoodies. After a round-three loss to Warriors, Snipers have bounced back impressively with 13-2 and 12-3 performances to take a percentage advantage over three teams at the top of the table. Dean Gibbs has been a powerhouse perpakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

Peter Willems from Gembrook threw the third 180 for the season in the South West Gippsland Picture: BB DARTS Dart League. 321684 former for Snipers, throwing an impressive 29 tons in his first-five outings. Gibbs has a nine-ton lead over Ant from the Warriors. The other big highlight of the night came from Peter Willems from Gem-

brook, who threw the third 180 of the season in the huge clash against 26ers. Willems may have provided some smiles, but the 26ers had the last laugh with an impressive 9-6 victory.

26ers now sit fourth, while Gembrook drops to seventh. In other games this week, Mud Rats finally opened their account - after an unlucky start to the season – with a 11-4 triumph over Fore. Mud Rats have been competitive to start the season, but narrow losses to Gembrook (8-7) and 26ers (8-7) had certainly stunted their climb up the ladder. Their first win moves them to eighth place on the table. And Pakyone is cruising along very nicely in second place after a dominant 13-2 win over Bullseyes. Noel has been leading the way for Pakyone, having fired the most tons (17) and producing the highest checkout (101) for his side this season. Round 5 Results: Mud Rats 11 def Fore 4, Snipers 12 def Hoodies 3, 26ers 9 def Gembrook 6, Pakyone 13 def Bullseyes 2, Just Social 13 def Warriors 2, Rebels – Bye. Ladder: Snipers 16, Pakyone 16, Warriors 16, 26ers 16, Just Social 12, Rebels 8, Gembrook 8, Mud Rats 4, Bullseyes 4, Fore 0, Hoodies 0. Thursday, 2 March, 2023

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