Thursday, 21 November, 2024
Phone: (03) 5945 0666 Trades & Classifieds: 1300 666 808
starcommunity.com.au FREE
Monash Health bleeds $329m
Empowering young minds
Sporting clubs set to prosper
PAGES 3-4, 14
PAGE 7
PAGE 15
SPORT
12687450-JC20-24
Lake name fallout
Mayor’s seat filled By Ethan Benedicto The City of Casey welcomed its first mayor in almost five years, as Stefan Koomen from Waratah Ward was unanimously elected by his fellow councillors on Tuesday 19 November. Alongside Koomen stands Kalora Ward’s Melinda Ambros, who was unanimously elected as the council’s deputy mayor. Both have expressed their gratitude not just to their peers and families, but also to their communities and the wider city for choosing them to be their representatives. This marks the first, full council since the former group was dismissed in 2020 following a report by a municipal monitor who identified significant governance failures. Followed through by an investigation by the Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission (IBAC) into allegations of corrupt conduct that involved councillors and property developers, the current council has pledged to a strong stance of goodwill and establishing trust. Working towards unity through proper communication amongst themselves and the community, Koomen and Amabros said that they are both keen to sink their teeth into their roles and dedicate themselves to the needs of the city. The mayoral announcement was followed by a dinner in which councillors, alongside their families attended. The first official council meeting is scheduled for 10 December, with mayoral training to continue until the middle of the month. Story page 5
Stefan Koomen sat at the head of the table during the special council meeting. (Stewart Chambers: 442356)
YOUR LOCAL VOICE IN PARLIAMENT It’s all at Ridgelea Located in a brand new suburb and minutes to the new East Pakenham train station.
12722647-KG41-24
1/31 Princes Hwy, Dandenong VIC 3175 ann-marie.hermans@parliament.vic.gov.au Ann-MarieHermans.com.au AnnMarieHermansMP 9794 7667 annmariehermansmp
Lots sizes from 350m2 to 730m2 Pricing from $377,000 - $599,000
MP
1300 925 349
ridgeleaestate.com.au 12725875-AV45-24
NARRE WARREN
FOR ALL YOUR AUTOMOTIVE NEEDS NARRE WARREN NTH & LAUDERDALE ROAD PH: 9705 8800 12607806-HC21-23