News - Pakenham Officer Star News - 21st August 2025

title as schools, libraries, childcare centres and more have embraced the Book Week spirit with many inspiring costumes. SEE PHOTOS AND

Lights out, sorry!

The council has apologised for not informing the community of the removal of more original lamps in Heritage Springs, a move that was “needed” despite an order to halt anymore replacements. Several lights were replaced around the intersection of Heritage and Livingstone Boulevard this month, even though there is a council-mandated pause on their removal after residents protested their replacement.

Cardinia Shire Council investigated the removal and revealed the latest removal by their contractors was needed to complete works to address safety between motorists and cyclists at this intersection.

“We acknowledge that the recent removal of lights in the Heritage Springs estate is disappointing for the local community. We sincerely apologise for the disappointment and concern this has

caused,” Cardinia interim CEO Peter Benazic said.

“While this is regrettable, vital safety works are needed at the intersection of Livingstone and Heritage Boulevards, including replacing the existing lights that were removed with upgraded lighting.”

The majority of the Collins Street-inspired lamp fittings that gave the estate character to

many residents were removed last year.

The halt on the removal of the remaining lights was adopted at the July 2024 Council Meeting after community backlash that said the replacements did not accord with the original streetscape.

Mr Benezic apologised for not informing residents about the recent removal before the works. FULL STORY PAGE 2

Apology after lights debacle

By Corey Everitt

The council has apologised for not informing the community of the removal of more original lamps in Heritage Springs, a move that was “needed” despite an order to halt anymore replacements.

Several lights were replaced around the intersection of Heritage and Livingstone Boulevard this month, even though there is a council-mandated pause on their removal after residents protested their replacement.

Cardinia Shire Council investigated the removal and revealed the latest removal by their contractors was needed to complete works to address safety between motorists and cyclists at this intersection.

“We acknowledge that the recent removal of lights in the Heritage Springs estate is disappointing for the local community. We sincerely apologise for the disappointment and concern this has caused,” Cardinia interim CEO Peter Benazic said.

“While this is regrettable, vital safety works are needed at the intersection of Livingstone and Heritage Boulevards, including replacing the existing lights that were removed with upgraded lighting.”

The majority of the Collins Street-inspired lamp fittings that gave the estate character to many residents were removed last year.

The halt on the removal of the remaining lights was adopted at the July 2024 Council Meeting after community backlash that said the replacements did not accord with the original streetscape.

Mr Benezic apologised for not informing residents about the recent removal before the works.

“Upgraded lighting is needed as part of this work to make the intersection safer, improve visibility, and meet safety and funding requirements. We acknowledge that on this occasion we should have informed the community that the original lights re-

Glamorous debutants

The Rotary Club of Pakenham annual Debutant Ball attracted 400 family and friends on August 16.

Special guests included Cardinia Shire Council Mayor Cr Jack Kowarzik and Rotary Club President Ross Chudleigh, accompanied by their spouses.

Held at the Pakenham Racecourse function room, 26 debutantes and their partners dressed in their finest attire and showcased their dancing skills, marking a memorable milestone in their journey from local secondary colleges.

Representing schools across Pakenham and surrounding areas, the event highlighted the strong community connections among families, students, and local organisations, making it a night to remember for all in attendance.

Mayor Jack Kowarzik and Rotary president Ross Chudleigh with debutantes and partners representing local secondary colleges. (Flash Photography)

quired removal to comply with safety requirements, and for this we apologise,” Mr Benezic said.

“We have investigated this matter, and unfortunately the lights have since been recycled. We will work closely with our contractors to minimise removal of any additional lights.”

The works are to address blind spots for both motorists and cyclists, backed by a federal government program.

“This intersection was identified as a high-risk

area due to the number of cyclist crashes over the past five years, with the high number of collisions between vehicles and cyclists indicating that visibility of cyclists at the roundabout is poor,” Mr Benezic said.

“A range of safety improvements are being delivered through the Federal Government’s Black Spot Program. These include raised safety platforms to enhance pedestrian safety and reduce vehicle speeds, along with new signage, line marking, and

upgraded lighting to improve night-time visibility.”

The initial removal of the lights is part of a program to rid the council of mercury vapour lights. The council order stopping their removal is pending a review by AusNet into a possible retrofit LED globe that could retain them.

Mr Benezic assured that the council is still committed to the pause on removing existing original lamps within Heritage Springs and Lakeside Estates.

Library comes to life

Wicked to whimsy, Pakenham Library celebrated their favourite characters to mark this year’s Book Week.

Book Week with author Kelly Wilson

1. What book are you currently reading, and what drew you to it?

I’m currently reading 3 books. I’ve always got more than one on the go, and not enough time to read! I’m reading Red River Road by Anna Downes. She is an incredible Australian author who inspires me as a thriller writer. I’m also reading Save the Cat! Writes a Novel. By Jessica Brody to help me study and improve on the writing process. And I’m also reading The body keeps the score by Bessel Van Der Kolk. This was recommended by a colleague to further study mental health and trauma.

2. What is your favourite book of all time, why does it stand out to you, and would you recommend it to others?

My favourite book of all time (at the moment) as it changes so often and is impossible to narrow down is The lost Flowers of Alice Hart by Holly Ringland. It sounds out to me because it captures how our untold stories haunt us – and highlights the stories we tell ourselves in order to survive. I highly recommend this utterly moving and life affirming book.

3.  What is your favourite thing about reading, and why do you think it is so important?

Reading allows us to be completely in a moment, to live a thousand different lives and to completely detach from our current reality. Reading strengthens our schemas, expands our mindset, and fosters empathy. Best of all, reading keeps our imagination alive.

4. What advice would you give to aspiring writers in our community?

Stop dreaming about writing and go for it! Your voice might be just what the world is waiting to hear. No one is the perfect writing in the beginning, but give yourself a chance, write as often as you can, read as many different genres as possible. Enrol in a writing course or join a writers group to help keep you motivated and meet like minds. When you do sit down to write, allow yourself the opportunity and flexibility to evolve. Find what works for you, be organic in your approach and don’t try to write or plan for writing like someone else. Crafting is your journey alone.

5. What legacy would you like your books to leave for future generations?

As an author, my vision is to inspire and challenge readers through compelling narratives that evoke deep emotions. I strive to empower individuals to embrace their voices as catalysts for change, fostering personal growth, well-being, and cultural awareness. Through my work, I aim to create a space where stories

Staff and residents dressed up on Tuesday for Book Week (16 - 23 August) as part of their activities to honour the magical power of reading.

There was even more sorcery afoot as staff members transported the library to the land of Oz.

New childcare centre open

Boollam Boollam Child and Family Centre has officially opened, providing early years services and support to Cardinia Shire families.

The new Child and Family Centre located at Roderick Drive, Pakenham, was officially opened recently with a ceremony attended by Member for Pakenham, Emma Vulin, Cardinia Shire Mayor Jack Kowarzik, Cr Cr Casey Thomsen and Cr Collin Ross and representatives from Early Childhood Management Services (ECMS). The centre has been welcoming families through the door since the commencement of term 2.

“We are thrilled to officially open Boollam Boollam Child and Family Centre, a brand-new integrated facility that fosters creativity, learning, and community for our families and children,” Mayor Kowarzik said.

“The new space includes four kindergarten rooms offering up to 132 kindergarten places for 3 and 4-year-olds, and spaces for maternal

and child health services and other services such as allied health. The program room can also be used for playgroups and other community programs when not in use by the kindergarten.

“The demand for early years infrastructure and kindergarten services in our region is rapidly growing and we’re thankful to the Victorian Government for their collaboration and co-investment in this project and in ensuring access to local services in Cardinia Shire.”

The facility’s name, ‘Boollam Boollam’, meaning butterfly, was chosen following consultation with Council’s Place Naming Committee, the Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation and the Cardinia Shire community in late 2024.

Council commissioned two artists to create installations inspired by the name Boollam Boollam. In the garden of the new centre, artist Carla Gottgens has crafted a multi-node instal-

Myli (My Community Library) will be hosting many events for Book Week, including a special story time on Thursday at 11am. You can see more of the events across the local area at myli.au/bookweek25

lation, centred around the Yellow Sedged Skipper Butterfly and the native Blue Banded Bee. . Boollam Boollam Child and Family Centre was completed with funding support from Victorian Government through the Victorian School Building Authority’s Building Blocks Capacity Grant Program, developer contributions and the council. To learn more about this project please visit Building a Better Cardinia.

Veteran marks VP Day

By Afraa Kori

Arthur Walker, a 100-year-old veteran from Pakenham, was among those recognised in Canberra last week for the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Pacific.

Walker, who enlisted in the Royal Australian Air Force in 1943, attended the commemorative ceremonies alongside his daughter, Wendy Goldsack on August 15.

The emotional weekend included two special concerts by the Air Force Band, a theatre performance combining music and wartime footage, and a poignant Last Post Ceremony at the Australian War Memorial.

WWII veterans from across the country were formally invited by the Department of Veterans’

Affairs to attend, receiving full support with transport, accommodation, and on-site assistance.

For Walker, it was a continuation of celebrations for his 100th birthday last month and a meaningful recognition of his lifetime of service.

“In fact I was honoured and also a bit embarrassed because I don’t think I should have been there. I felt I hadn’t done enough,” Walker said.

“The Governor-General was remarkable. I thanked her on behalf of Arthur for the letter he received for his birthday in July. She immediately remembered him—his name, his routine, even the story we sent her,” Wendy said.

Wendy described the event as a meaningful moment for veterans to reflect on their service and be recognised for their contributions

“It’s been a long time coming for World War II to be properly acknowledged,” she said.

“One of the friends we met had served in the Korean War, which has had many events, memorials, and milestones.

“This is the first one we’ve heard about for World War II. I think they really appreciated that it was finally being recognised as such a huge part of their lives and their families’ lives.

“A lot of veterans said they never heard their dads talk about the war or what they had experienced. So having one of the veterans write their own story is a good way of releasing it.”

The Hon Matt Keogh MP, Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Minister for Defence Personnel, acknowledged the 12 Second World War veterans from all over Australia who we are very

privileged to have joined to commemorate this anniversary.

“All those who served - both abroad and on the home front showed incredible strength and determination across multiple theatres of war,” MP Keogh said.

It was an extraordinary generation who answered the call to serve, ensuring Australia is the vibrant, democratic and free country that it is today.

“With the war’s end our nation opened its doors wide to those from across the seas, contributing to our glorious, diverse community.

“To all those who have served, to all those who were lost, and to all those who love them - your service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.”

Medical woes growing

By Afraa Kori

Medicating children with ADHD and Autism remains a deeply contested issue, particularly in cultural and religious communities across south east and wider Australia.

South Sudanese young mother Alizabeth Kolang said much of the resistance comes from fear and identity.

“I believe in medication and medical prevention for my children. However, from observation I’ve noticed a lot of resistance to medication is due to fear and denial,” she said.

“A lot of parents do not want the stigmas associated with the Autism spectrum and ADHD to be placed on their child either. Especially in a faith community like ours the resistance gets even deeper, because it’s no longer just the natural resistance but now also spirituality is brought in.”

Pakenham’s Nurindah Lestari, founder of Nurindah Disability Services, warns that denial can deeply impact a child’s development and overall quality of life.

“When parents are in denial, they may delay or even refuse to seek the support their child needs. Unfortunately, this can mean missing out on early intervention opportunities that are so critical for progress.”

For Vicky Dut, who is studying clinical research and has a background in psychology and neuroscience, the issue is both professional and personal.

“From both my studies and my experience working with families, I’ve seen fear, denial, and stigma often form the biggest barriers,” Dut said.

“In many CALD and faith-based communities, this resistance can be amplified because the diagnosis isn’t just viewed as a medical matter— it can be tied to identity, self-worth, and spiritual interpretation.”

Dut has observed that early, empathetic conversations guided by clear information and cultural sensitivity help parents become more open to exploring support options. These may include

therapy, school-based interventions, and, when appropriate, carefully monitored medication.

“It’s not about pushing one pathway, but about creating a safe space where parents can understand the evidence, ask questions, and make informed decisions without fear of judgement,” Dut said.

“I believe our role, especially in community leadership and support work, is to bridge that gap, honouring cultural and spiritual values while ensuring children can access interventions that improve their quality of life.”

Pakenham’s counsellor, community leader and Pastor Willy Mudiayi said attitudes within African families can be especially complex.

“In the African community, many don’t like medication on autistic people including myself,” Pastor Willy said.

“From my work in disability support, I see how the medication is affecting; to some it affects the speech, others their movements slow down and they behave like drunk people.

“Many first prefer to hide their relatives with autism, to some parents it is shameful to have an autistic child.”

Medication is often seen as a last resort, and more education is needed to help families view autism and ADHD as medical challenges rather than curses.

“Personally I do advise to accept and love their child or relatives with disability and to accept medications if necessary,” Pastor Willy said.

“In the African community, there is still a long way to go to reach the acceptance of using those medications.”

For some families, medication provides vital relief.

Lestari, a parent of a child with autism, ADHD, dysphagia, and severe anxiety, supports using medication to help manage her son’s impulsive and aggressive behaviour.

“When it comes to caring for our children, our decisions are guided by what’s truly in their best interest, not by cultural or community expectations,” she said.

High school teacher jailed

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

A Cranbourne high-school teacher and mother-of-two who had a sexual affair with a 15-year-old student has been jailed.

Laura Ann Hill, 38, pleaded guilty at the Victorian County Court to five counts of sexually penetrating a child under 16, as well as sexual assault and persistently breaching an intervention order.

She and the student were said to have developed a close friendship, which furnished four occasions of sexual offending in a month.

In October 2024, Hill and the teenager took the day off school and met in the girl’s garage where they smoked cannabis.

They moved into the bedroom, with an undressed Hill hiding in a closet when the child’s grandmother arrived home.

On a later night, Hill drove the girl to Hill’s home. Despite Hill saying “this isn’t a good idea”, they proceeded to have sex.

Soon after, Hill revealed the relationship to her school’s assistant principal.

The girl was interviewed by police, while Hill was issued a family violence interim intervention order banning any contact or communication with the child.

However while on bail – and in breach of the intervention order – Hill again met with the child in November and they had sex in a playground in Hastings.

After this incident, the teen’s mum directed the girl to stay at her grandparent’s house. Nonetheless, the pair later had sex in the teen’s bedroom.

In breach of the intervention order, Hill also called and left numerous voicemails and texts to the teen’s phone.

After the teen’s mum provided her daughter’s phones to police, Hill was arrested, interviewed and has been since remanded in custody.

In sentencing, judge Claire Quin noted the significant upheaval for the teen and family.

On 15 August, the teen read a victim impact statement to the court saying that “legally I am the victim so why do I feel punished?”

She said she was struggling to see Hill as the “criminal that (Hill) is”, and had lost an “understanding” teacher that made her look forward to school.

As a result of the offences, she and the family had left the school, and they had moved a long distance away.

The teen’s parents were angered by the breach of trust, her mother felt guilty for not being able to protect her, Judge Quin noted.

Hill had endured a difficult, disrupted childhood, with separation and a lack of care and “emotional validation” from her parents.

At the time of offending, her judgement was clouded by borderline personality disorder with avoidant features.

It was said to be a factor in her getting over-involved with her students and her relationship difficulties.

Judge Quin also noted the severe impact of public opprobrium and incarceration on Hill, who was currently restricted from any video calls or visits from her two young children.

Her early guilty plea, remorse, insight, her disclosure of the relationship to the school and her lack of criminal priors were also noted.

Hill’s rehabilitation prospects were “good” if she continues to engage with sex offender treatment, Judge Quin said.

But the offending was serious, aggravated by Hill’s position of trust, the age disparity, and breach of bail and intervention orders.

Weighing up the factors, Judge Quin opted to impose a sentence less than the standard six years for sexual penetration of a child under 16.

Hill was jailed for five years and two months, with a non-parole period of 28 months.

Her term includes 259 days of pre-sentence remand.

Hill will report as a registered sexual offender for life.

Her experience also reflects some Asian families’ willingness to embrace medication when it supports their child’s wellbeing, despite lingering stigma in the community.

As a mother and disability support worker, Lestari reassures other parents that supporting medication doesn’t mean abandoning natural and holistic strategies.

“Our priority is to support Blade’s (her son) development through natural and holistic strate-

gies wherever possible,” Lestari said.

“However, if these methods consistently fail to bring improvement and if Blade’s behaviour and development begin to significantly impact his quality of life or those around him, we understand that medication may become a necessary last resort.”

The often overlooked problem is the cost of living, which can limit families’ access to medication.

“In moments of desperation, many parents turn to medication as a way to manage behaviours that are affecting not just the child, but the entire family’s well-being,” she said.

“But for families facing financial hardship or struggling to access the public health system, even this option can feel out of reach. Long wait times, limited resources, and high costs leave many stuck between a rock and a hard place, wanting to help their child, but unable to get the support they need.”

If you or someone you know needs support to stay independent, this session will help get you started.

The session is free, includes refreshments, and offers an opportunity to speak directly to experts from the Department of Health, Disability & Ageing and Care Finders in Cardinia.

Bookings are required for catering purposes.

Book now to learn about My Aged Care and how Care Finder can help eligible seniors access services including cleaning, shopping, and personal care! Tuesday, 9 September 1pm-3.30pm Emerald Hills Hub, 402 Belgrave-Gembrook Road, Emerald

Please contact Council’s Ageing Well team: Phone: 1300 787 624 Email: mail@cardinia.vic.gov.au

Proudly presented in partnership with Department of Health, Disability & Ageing, Aged Care Specialists from Services Australia, Care Connect, Monash Health and Wintringham.

Red tape reduction a must

By Corey Everitt

A call for more collaboration between all levels of government and a cutting of red tape were the themes of Outer Melbourne Council’s (OMC) recent forum discussing the key issues for the urban fringe.

To kickstart “OMC Week,” the City of Casey hosted “Building Tomorrow: Planning for growth in outer Melbourne” at Bunjil Place, a gathering of councils with policymakers to discuss the ongoing challenges facing the urban fringe.

The outer suburbs accommodate almost two million of Melbourne’s population, yet struggle with adequate infrastructure for the recreational, industrial and commercial needs of the community.

Almost a quarter of those two million residents reside in Casey, which is the smallest LGA by landmass of outer Melbourne.

“Like all the fellow councillors and mayors of our alliance, we hear every single day and we experience the frustration of living in outer Melbourne councils,” Casey mayor Stefan Koomen said.

“From the gaps in infrastructure, to lag in development, we all share those challenges.”

Cardinia Shire’s Advocacy and Partnerships Officer, Tom Ellis spoke on behalf of the council with a focus on the redevelopment of Cardinia Life, the development of aquatic centres became an overall theme for all councils.

A panel discussion of key thinkers in urban growth followed, involving Infrastructure Victoria CEO, Dr Jonathan Spear, Urban Development Institute of Australia CEO, Linda Allison and Suburbs Reporter for the ABC, Margaret Paul.

Responding to the need for aquatic and recreational facilities, Dr Spear reiterated calls for a focused partnership between all three levels of government.

“We’ve heard from other councils today, the scale of that investment is something that is going to be beyond local governments to deliver,” he said.

“But the benefits are more than local government, they are lifelong benefits that we reap as a State and a country.”

As councils continue to advocate for action on housing affordability, they are eager to see a continued boost in residential and industrial de-

velopments in their urban centres.

Representing developers, Ms Allison said that bureaucracy needs to be overridden with more decisive action.

“What we would like to see is a bit more of a ‘captain’s call’, that there needs to be somebody in government to say, the higher order is delivering housing in a timely and affordable manner,” she said.

Ms Paul said the frequent frustration she comes across is the lack of certainty about when promised suburban development will occur, which she put to her fellow panellists.

“If you don’t have a shared vision on land use outcomes and infrastructure that the State needs to invest in achieving that, funnily enough, we’re

probably not going to achieve it,” Dr Spear said.

“So actually having a shared view that everyone can see the population, jobs and planning, and the State’s plans in each portfolio to achieve that, would be really helpful to then inform budget decisions.”

Parliamentary Secretary to the Victorian Premier, Tim Richardson and Opposition Leader, Brad Battin were present and heard directly from councils; they also had the opportunity to speak on their ways of addressing the needs of the suburbs.

Mr Richardson spruiked the state government’s ongoing planning and delivery of schools and said the long list of key issues will be taken before cabinet, while Mr Battin said the cost to

build in Victoria is “beyond affordable” and that a cutting of red tape between public and private interests will help deliver for outer Melbourne. Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas, Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards and South Eastern Metro MP Michael Galea were in attendance for the state government.

Federal MP for Holt Cassandra Fernando was in attendance.

Deputy Opposition Leader Sam Groth, Nationals Leader Danny O’Brien and Shadow Minister for Energy and Resources David Davis were also in attendance for the opposition.

OMC will be hosting another forum regarding roads and transport at the City of Whittlesea later this week.

Lights for two, Christmas funds split for towns

By Ethan Benedicto

A proposal to fund Christmas lights in Berwick High Street was ultimately amended to share the $50,000 budget with Cranbourne’s High Street, following debate over alternative motions.

Akoonah Ward councillor, Scott Dowling, recently proposed to the council for Christmas decorations in Berwick Village, as well as other themed events in July this year.

While not originally included in Casey’s 2025/2026 budget, it was noted that the delivery of Christmas decorations in Berwick Village would cost approximately $50,000.

This original motion, for Berwick Village to be the single recipient of this budget, was only backed by three councillors, who consisted of Cr Dowling, Cr Dave Perry, and Cr Lynette Pereira.

It was opposed by all other councillors, with Cranbourne Gardens Cr Michelle Crowther putting forward an alternative motion, one that split the $50,000 between the Cranbourne and Berwick activity hubs.

Cr. Dowling’s argument began by noting the common sentiment from traders and residents in Berwick High Street on how “bland and drab our festive season around Christmas time is”.

“Decorations were a big part of those conversations… they bring a sense of joy and warmth to our shared space, and transform an ordinary environment into something very uplifting.

“These decorations aren’t just ornaments, they’re visual expressions of hope, connection, and the simple joy of coming together,” he said.

Cr Dowling, who received verbal support from both Cr Pereira and Cr Perry, was countered by Cr Crowther’s alternative motion, adding that she “cannot support such an investment in just Berwick”.

Her proposal, instead, was to share the budget between the Berwick and Cranbuorne High Streets, where, alongside the Fountain Gate Shopping Centre, had been identified by the city as central activity hubs in Casey.

“The first part is splitting the $50,000 budget equally between Cranbourne and Berwick High Streets,” she said.

“But also importantly, it’s finding savings in our quarter budget review process to counteract this unbudgeted cost… so this is a trial and a pilot to see what impact we can have to help our high street traders and our community.”

She further added that, depending on the trial’s outcome, it is then that the council would explore broader expansion of similar endeavours for other activity centres around Casey.

Deputy Mayor Ambros was the first to speak after Cr Crowther’s alternative, adding that “we have a responsibility to make sure our spending delivers value”.

“Ratepayers expect us to celebrate in a way that reflects our community and not in a way that wastes money.

“We want to ensure our investment in Christmas events is targeted, effective and connected to the main hubs of our city… these hubs are where people naturally gather and [by] focusing our celebrations there we can create maximum benefit,” she said.

Cr Eaves, whose ward neighbours Cr Crowther’s with Cranbourne High Street serving as the closest central hub, said that Cr Crowther’s alternative “recognises Cranbourne and Cranbourne Village on an equal footing with Berwick”.

“I do not support Cr Dowling’s motion, it fails to recognise those [other] suburbs, as well as Cranbourne, as equal,” she said.

Cr Dowling’s rebuttal was centred around the fact that $300,000 had been spent “in all other wards over the last 10 years”, and that Berwick has not had any grants, albeit no one had applied either, for Christmas specifically.

He emphasised that all suburbs are equal, and that he didn’t “think anyone else isn’t equal with us”, but also that “Berwick hasn’t had anything”.

Cr Dowling’s motion was ultimately defeated after nine votes in opposition, which included

Funds of $50,000 for Christmas lights, originally proposed to be for Berwick, were instead evenly split between Cranbourne, as the council debated over alternative motions. (Gary Sissons: 460126_19)

all councillors except himself, Cr Perry and Cr Pereira, as mentioned prior.

Other councillors, such as Cr Dizon and Cr Rowe, also spoke in support of Cr Crowther’s alternative, with the others adding that this new alternative motion, serving as a trial, is a good step forward to covering the whole city in the future.

However, the final vote was 11-1, as opposed only by Cr Ross, who spoke on the larger picture and said that “the fiscal responsibility that I have to my residents means that I can’t support this motion.”

“It doesn’t mean I don’t love Christmas, I’m not the Grinch, and I believe that there are many parts of Casey that could do with some Christmas spirit invigoration.

“But I can’t support us just giving money without a plan and without a commitment from the community about what this was going to look like,” she said.

Cr Ross’ issue was about the fundamentals of process, specifically rejecting the ad hoc allocation of unbudgeted funds, especially after councillors had spent a considerable period of time deliberating over the 2025/2026 budget.

She added that, as she was against Cr Dowling’s proposal, she too was against Cr Crowther’s, saying that “we spent days and days and many hours approving the budget”.

“And I think it’s really bad management to decide things like this on the run… of course everybody wants to do something special in their ward, of course we think our wards deserve more.

“This is not the issue; it’s not about Christmas, it’s about the process, and it’s about the responsible use of money, ratepayers’ money.

“Part of the problem is that we’re trying to make things up on the run and put it under the heading of a pilot project; I really object to this way of doing council business,” she said.

$900K for wetlands

TheWesternPortBiosphereandRMITUniversity have launched a new project to restore critical coastal wetlands and protect Western Port’s communities from the growing impacts of climate change.

Enabled through $900,000 in philanthropic funding from The Ian Potter Foundation and additional contributions from project partners, including RMIT, this three-year initiative will restore and protect mangroves and saltmarsh, monitor ecosystem health, and engage private landholders and the broader community in nature-based solutions on Bunurong Country.

The project builds on earlier research supported by local councils and subsequent restoration work funded by the Victorian Government. It will focus on Western Port’s three major blue carbon ecosystems — mangroves, saltmarsh and seagrass habitats, which store vast amounts of carbon, buffer coastlines from erosion and storm surges, and provide vital breeding and feeding grounds for fish, birds, and other wildlife.

Many of Western Port’s wetlands are located on or beside private land, meaning landholders have a direct role in their protection.

This project will provide participating landholders with practical tools, resources, and expert guidance to help restore and maintain these natural buffers.

Coastal erosion is already affecting communities around Western Port, and with rising sea levels and more frequent storm surges, these pressures will only increase.

According to the Western Port Biosphere, restoring mangroves and saltmarsh is a practical, long-term way to protect natural habitats, properties, and infrastructure.

“This project allows us to move from planning into action, working directly with private landholders to integrate natural infrastructure into the future resilience of their properties. The Victorian Government and local councils are embedding climate resilience into planning, but for this to succeed, everyone, government, community, and landholders, needs to play their part,” Western Port Biosphere CEO Mel Barker said.

ty is grounded in robust evidence and tailored to Western Port’s unique coastal environment.

Monitoring is critical to ensure restoration efforts deliver lasting benefits for people, nature, and the climate. Scientific design and monitoring will be led by Dr Stacey Trevathan-Tackett and Dr Melissa Wartman from RMIT’s Centre for Nature Positive Solutions, ensuring every activi-

“Healthy mangroves and saltmarsh are Western Port’s first line of defence against storms and erosion. They slow waves, trap sediment, and store carbon in their soils for centuries. We know that these ecosystems can recover quickly when pressures like grazing are removed, “ Dr Trevathan-Tackett said.

“This project will put that knowledge into action, combining restoration with careful monitoring so we can track benefits for the coastline, biodiversity, and the climate. By working alongside landholders, we can create nature-based protection that grows stronger over time.”

We’re building big near you and there will be transport disruptions

As part of Victoria’s Big Build, construction of Suburban Rail Loop is well underway. The new underground train line will connect our growing suburbs through faster, more reliable travel. It will also support the delivery of more homes, and provide better access to jobs, schools and healthcare. While we work, disruptions could affect your travel.

Train disruptions: Buses replace trains in both directions

Cranbourne and Pakenham lines

From 9pm 29 Aug to 31 Aug

From midnight until 5am on 6 Sep

1 Sep to 5 Sep

8 Sep to 11 Sep

Between Caulfield and Westall

Between Parliament, Caulfield and Westall

Between Parliament, Caulfield and Westall

Landholders who want to be part of this work and access expert advice and support for coastal protection are encouraged to contact the Western Port Biosphere via https://www.biosphere. org.au/contact/ or call 5979 2167.

Controversial permit out

Casey Council has removed a controversial clause that regulates vehicle repair and unregistered vehicles on private properties in its draft Local Law 2025.

Matters relating to excess unregistered vehicles on private land will be managed through the unsightly clause, the draft suggests.

The unsightly clause states that “an owner or occupier of private land must not allow that private land to become unsightly”, and “to be used in a manner so as to be detrimental to the amenity of the immediate area in which it is located”.

The old clause, which has been removed now in the draft, stipulated that a person must not, except with a permit, use private land to dismantle, repair, or service vehicles or machinery in circumstances where the activity or use is detrimental to the amenity of the area in which the private land is located. It also stipulated that an owner or occupier of private land must not, except with a permit, keep on that private land more than two unregistered vehicles.

The old clause, along with some others that regulate private land use, sparked a nationwide backlash earlier this year, after inconsistent wording was published on the council’s own website.

After the wording was corrected, residents remained concerned as they suddenly found out the requirement to purchase permits to use recreational vehicles, store shipping containers and more than two unregistered vehicles, and put up temporary dwellings.

A petition to abolish the permits was launched. YouTube videos by big car accounts were made to criticise the permits. Politicians also joined the chorus, with local MPs condemning the Local Law as an overreach into residents’ rights to use their own land.

The controversy came to a head when council officers impounded several vehicles from a Hampton Park resident’s property under the disputed clause. Tensions spilled over at the following February council meeting, where angry residents packed the chamber in protest. The meeting was ultimately dismissed after repeated disruptions from the crowd.

In the wake of the uproar, councillors agreed to undertake a full review of the draft Local Law 2025.

The draft was revealed at the August Council Meeting, where all controversial clauses had proposed changes.

Apart from the removal of the unregistered vehicles clause, major changes have included the permit exemption for properties over four hectares to store shipping containers, the extended permit duration from 14 days to two months for temporary dwellings and requiring permits for recreational vehicle use only outside EPA-approved timeframes.

Cranbourne Gardens Ward Councillor Michelle Crowther said at the August Council Meeting that she welcomed the change to the recreational vehicle clause to a noise-based restricted process rather than a permit-based system.

“Many community members contacted me about the excessive fees associated with permits providing recreational vehicles on their property, and I welcome the proposed changes,” she

said.

“I urge community members, especially in the rural and semi-rural areas, to contribute feedback about the proposed shipping container changes.

“The draft local laws currently accept properties greater than four hectares, which is approximately 10 acres, from needing a permit, so that means that people on one-, two- and five-acre properties still need a permit to have a shipping container.

“Anyone, who is passionate about that topic, I strongly encourage you to provide feedback about that clause.”

At the same meeting, Kowan Ward Cr Shane Taylor raised his concern about the high penalties, the daily fines, and the powers of entry.

“These sorts of powers need to be within clear limits and strong justification. Right now, I don’t think the draft gives enough certainty to the property owners,” he said.

“This is why the execution period is so important. It’s a chance for residents to look at these laws closely and tell us if they go too far or if they strike the right balance.”

The draft Casey Community Local Law will be placed on public exhibition for 28 days, from 21 August to 18 September.

To read the draft and submit your opinions: conversations.casey.vic.gov.au/llreview_25

Permits open for park

Cardinia Shire Council is now accepting expressions of interest from mobile coffee, ice cream, and food businesses interested in operating at the new Officer District Park on Lansell Avenue. Three exclusive site-specific roadside trading permits are available, one each for a coffee truck, an ice cream truck, and a food van.

Successful applicants will be granted permission to operate in designated areas within the park for 12 months, from 21 October 2025 to 20 October 2026.

Businesses that secure a permit will be able to serve park visitors from a prime location in the dedicated food truck area, bringing delightful treats and refreshments to those enjoying the park and natural surroundings.

Business operators at Officer District Park will be required to apply for a Roadside Trading Permit.

Please note that only three permits will be issued for this location, and any additional trading on-site will not be allowed. All interested businesses are encouraged to ap-

ply and contribute to enhancing the experience at Officer District Park, a vibrant new destination for both the community and visitors. Expressions of interest close on Friday, 5 September, at 5pm.

For more information on eligibility criteria or to submit your application, please visit cardinia. smartygrants.com.au/ODPAUG25

Life-changing law advice

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

For the past decade, inTouch Womens Legal Centre has been partnering with Monash Health to provide holistic support for domestic violence victims attending hospitals.

Migrant women experiencing domestic violence are given legal advice, and linked to inTouch case managers, recovery groups, housing, refuges and financial support.

Yasmin Ildes, managing lawyer at inTouch Womens Legal Centre, says potentially the only time a patient client is alone is when they’re at what the perpetrator partner thinks is a health appointment.

“The Health Justice Partnership model creates a trusted bridge to legal help.

“It reaches clients who may never walk into a legal service.”

The multilingual and culturally-safe service provides early intervention for vulnerable communities – the vast majority (91 per cent) speaking a language other than English, she says.

Migrant and refugee women face complex challenges such as isolation, fear of deportation, stigma, cultural pressure and a lack of legal rights as well as pregnancy and children.

Most of their clients are between 25-49 years old, endure financial disadvantage and are homeless or at risk of homelessness.

They also experience higher rates of mental illness or disability.

Ildes gave an example of how the partnership helped a heavily pregnant woman Suzanna, who was on a temporary visa with no family support in Australia.

Suzanna told her hospital social worker about experiences of family violence, who in turn gets in touch with an inTouch lawyer.

With advice from inTouch, the social worker was guided on targeted questions to ask about the patient’s visa status and eligibility for permanent residency as a victim of family violence.

A lawyer helped Suzanna lodge an application for permanent residency.

She was offered a case manager from the same background and who spoke the same language.

The lawyer and case manager worked together on child protection and housing support issues.

The 10-year milestone of the partnership was marked with Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams at Dandenong Hospital on Friday 15 August.

In that time, referrals have risen from 18 per year to 65. The importance of early intervention became more apparent, and trust built with mul-

Luba and Azmeena (inTouch). (Stewart Chambers: 485468)

ticultural communities.

The partnership is looking to expand within Monash Health, and to educate more health professionals on how to spot “legal risk”, Ildes says.

“Mainstream systems often fail to meet the needs of migrant women.

social work head Jacinta Re at the Dandenong Hospital event. (Stewart Chambers: 485468)

“Real change happens when services meet women where they are — not where the system expects them to be.”

Second rally against Hampton Park waste station unfolds

By Violet Li

Hampton Park and its surrounding residents rallied outside the state tribunal on Friday 15 August to oppose the proposed waste transfer station, marking the second protest this year.

More than 30 people gathered outside the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) on King Street in Melbourne’s CBD, wearing “WTS WE SAY NO” yellow shirts and holding a “STOP THE WTS PROTECT HAMPTON PARK” red banner.

Local Opposition MP Ann-Marie Hermans, Legalise Cannabis MP Rachel Payne, and Greens Brunswick MP Tim Read attended the rally, along with Casey Councillor Lynette Pereira, the only councillor present.

Inside the state tribunal, the state’s environment watchdog Environment Protection Authority (EPA) Victoria was having its fourth day of the planning hearing to defend its objection against the development licence by Veolia for the proposed Hampton Park waste transfer station.

The eight-day VCAT hearing started on Monday 11 August, with the initial four days scheduled for this week and the rest for late September.

Earlier in the week, the tribunal ordered EPA Victoria to draft ‘without-prejudice’ licence conditions, which the agency refused, instead appealing to the Supreme Court of Victoria.

Two months ago, residents also travelled to Parliament to back a debate against the proposed waste transfer station.

Both rallies carried the same message: strong community opposition to the proposed facility, located approximately 250 metres from the nearest residential dwelling.

A spokesperson for Lynbrook Residents Association (LRA), who organised the rally, said what surprised them at the rally was the wave of sup-

port from beyond the Casey borders. “Residents from Mornington, Sunbury and Essendon stood shoulder-to-shoulder with us, proving this fight is no longer just local,” they said.

“With MPs joining the rally, our message was clear: people’s health and rights come before corporate profit.

“The EPA has already rejected Veolia’s licence, finding the facility posed unacceptable risks to human health and the environment and breached the Charter of Human Rights, including the Right to Life, Right to Privacy and Home, and the Protection of children.

“This battle is bigger than Hampton Park. It is about social justice, health, and the rights of every Victorian.”

At the VCAT rally, Opposition MP Ms Hermans, who previously tabled two petitions against the proposed facility in Parliament, voiced concern over the potential environmental and health impacts of the proposed facility.

She highlighted the importance of protecting local waterways, warning that contamination could have widespread effects on surrounding communities.

“What we don’t know is what a waste transfer facility would do to those waterways, and think of the number of residents this will impact. Berwick Springs has been named Berwick Springs for a reason. There’s a waterway,” she said.

“And there are waterways all throughout, right down to Cranbourne and beyond. It connects the communities even though we can’t see it.”

Legalise Cannabis MP Ms Payne said at the rally that in no way should a waste transfer station be in a residential area.

“The EPA has acknowledged this, has made its ruling,” she said.

“That should be upheld and that should be respected.

“I can imagine how incredibly frustrating it must be as a community to have to continue to stand there and say this over and over and over

again.”

She said they would continue to hold the government to account and uphold the EPA’s decision.

“The community have been dealing with Veolia as an operator for many, many years,” she said.

“How many of you have had to make complaints about odour?

“How many of you have had to make complaints about how they operate and how they continue to be flagrant against the rules?”

The spokesperson for the LRA said the community is watching the VCAT case closely, hoping common sense prevails and people are put before big business.

100 Days of School

Starting a new adventure can always be a bit daunting but not only did these Foundation students jump at the chance of beginning school in January, but have continued this with great excitement, curiosity and sense of tremendous fun! At St James, these students have been nurtured by their caring and dedicated teachers and Education Support staff who all know them so well as individuals, attune to their needs and catering for their interests.

Their learning has included Little Learner’s Love Literacy, a phonics-based support for literacy. Since beginning this program in 2023, staff have noticed a strong increase in student outcomes to the point where this program has been extended with ageappropriate texts to older year levels.

Some highlights for Foundation students have been playing in the sandpit, having a senior buddy, drawing, school disco and athletics day, learning about numbers, reading and making friends.

The following poem, a reflection written by Foundation teacher Trish, sums it up perfectly!

100 days of learning

100 days of fun

Learning how to collaborate

Learning how to be one

100 days of reading

100 days of Maths

Counting to 100

Collecting data on graphs

We are 100 days smarter

We are a clever bunch

We love our days and we have had

100 days of lunch

Having recently celebrated their 50th Anniversary, St James is well placed to serve the growing communities of Nar Nar Goon, Pakenham East and surrounds well into the future. For personalised school tours please contact 5942 5404.

St James Catholic School

Amazon now in Cranbourne

Amazon has opened Victoria’s third fulfilment centre in Cranbourne West, its second in Melbourne’s south east since Dandenong South in 2017.

The new 52,000 sqm Cranbourne West facility, known as AVV2 Logistics Centre at 95 Whitfield Bvd, dominates the landscape and features a vast façade clad in sleek grey panels accented with Amazon’s signature smile log. The site can reportedly fit two and a half AFL fields. Inside, towering rows of shelves rise toward the high ceiling, ready to be stacked with a variety of products to be picked, packed, and shipped.

The air carries a constant hum from conveyor belts, scanners, and the soft whir of machinery.

The facility is one of two new, purpose-built sites Amazon has opened in Victoria this month, with the retailer also opening a logistics site in Melbourne’s northwest. Together, these represent an investment of $200 million in Victoria.

With a capacity to store up to four million products like electronics, beauty products, furniture, and books, the new Cranbourne West fulfilment centre will support more small and medium-sized businesses to use the Amazon delivery platform to sell their products to more customers.

The 500 jobs created at the Cranborne West site range from entry-level roles with on-thejob training to skilled roles in areas such as Operations, Human Resources, Engineering and Workplace Health and Safety.

According to Amazon Australia, the majority of jobs will be permanent full-time roles, with leading pay and comprehensive benefits such as subsidised private healthcare and up to 20 weeks of paid parental leave.

Cranbourne local Atakura Michael, who started working as an LO picker at the site about four weeks ago, said the experience was good.

“I think Amazon is amazing. People are great. Our supervisors and our operators, they’re awesome,” she said.

“I think the system is very organised. They’re very sensitive in terms of safety, and I love that.”

Ms Michael said she originally planned to move to Perth, but Covid got in her way. She was glad that she stayed in Cranbourne and now got to work at Amazon.

Casey Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen, Deputy Mayor Cr Melinda Ambros, Cr Carolyn Eaves, Cr Gary Rowe, Cr Scott Dowling and Cr Shane Taylor attended the official opening, alongside Minister for Finance and Economic Growth and Jobs The Hon. Danny Pearson and Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards, on Friday 15 August, to welcome the boost to local employment opportunities.

Amazon Australia Country Manager Janet Menzies said these new sites strengthen their ability to meet these commitments for Victorian customers.

“Prime members in Melbourne are already able to enjoy the convenience of next-day delivery, and these facilities will significantly expand the range of products available for swift local delivery,” she said.

Mayor Cr Koomen emphasised that the im-

pact of these new jobs goes beyond economic growth.

“More than 65 per cent of our residents travel to work by car. Every minute that they save on their journey from work means more time spent with those they love or doing activities that bring joy to their everyday lives,” he said.

Mayor Cr Koomen also highlighted the broader significance of Amazon’s investment.

“Casey is a great place for global businesses to grow, thanks to our convenient location, fast-growing community and business-friendly Council,” he said.

“Plus, our city offers an affordable alternative to industrial land in neighbouring areas like Dandenong. There’s never been a better time to invest in Casey.”

Real asset owner and manager ESR Australia & New Zealand’s head of development Simon Sayers said the company is thrilled to welcome Amazon to Greenlink, a key destination for premium logistics and industrial spaces in the thriving south east.

“Cranbourne West was a deliberate choice of location to develop Greenlink, our flagship estate in Victoria, thanks to its prime position with direct access to key arterial roads, including the Western Port Highway,” he said.

“From day one, demand for industrial space in the area has been exceptionally strong. ESR is extremely proud to have developed this worldclass facility in close collaboration with Amazon and deeply appreciates the close support of Casey Council and our contracting partner for this project, Qanstruct.”

AgriFutures unleashed

By Afraa Kori

The 2025 AgriFutures Stakeholder Summit was the largest and most ambitious yet, tripling in scale and relocating to Canberra for a week of powerful connection and collaboration among Australia’s leading and emerging voices in agriculture.

Held last month in Canberra, the Summit brought together more than 150 participants from across the country, including Horizon Scholars, AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award (RWA) Finalists, industry innovators, MPs, Ministers, Senators, research leaders and key representatives from AgriFutures Australia’s levied and emerging industries.

This is the first time these voices have come together in one place, working side-by-side as part of the Summit’s unique program to tackle some of the greatest challenges and opportunities for Australia’s rural industries.

AgriFutures General Manager, Workforce, Communications and Adoption, Jennifer Galloway, said this year’s Summit was deliberately positioned in Canberra to elevate the reach and influence of rural leadership.

“Canberra isn’t just a backdrop. It’s part of the design, placing young leaders and grassroots industries face-to-face with national decision-makers, departments and other Research and Development Corporations, Ms Galloway said.

“We’re creating opportunities for genuine engagement that leads to real outcomes.”

At the heart of the program was the National Hackathon, where cross-disciplinary teams of past and present Horizon Scholars worked on urgent issues identified by AgriFutures Australia’s levied and emerging industries, such as sharing the story of Australian agriculture to garner ongoing community support, climate-smart rice production and transforming poultry research careers.

AgriFutures General Manager, Levied and EmergingIndustries,SamanthaBeresford,saidthe Summit brought new collaboration opportunities.

“Our industries are grappling with real, complex issues. This Summit gives them a voice and a chance to work directly with emerging leaders who bring new thinking, energy and perspective,” Ms Beresford said.

The program included a candid panel on systems change hosted by Ms McGowan, featuring

Troy Williams, CEO of the National Farmers’ Federation, and Senator Susan McDonald, Shadow Minister for Resources and Northern Australia.

This was followed by a morning tea connecting Scholars, RWA Finalists, and AgriFutures Levied and Emerging Industries with parliamentarians and senior public servants.

As Cathy McGowan explained, the panel, and the Summit as a whole, was about bringing together the people who were making things happen in agriculture.

“It’s not just about ideas; it’s about action. By connecting researchers, industry leaders, policy makers and emerging voices, we’re creating space for real conversations that lead to change,” Ms McGowan said.

“It’s a reminder that regional and rural Australia is full of solutions and when we work together, the impact is national.”

The Summit’s Stakeholder Showcase Dinner featured industry leaders past and present, including Jory Kitsch (Flux Robotics), Tanya Egerton (RWA 2024 National Winner and Op Shop Project) and Dr Mary Wu (Chicken Meat Federation). Together, they reflected on how courage, collabora-

tion and innovation shifted systems and unlocked opportunity.

Dr Mary Cole, Victorian finalist for the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award, attended the Summit and reflected on the unique gathering.

“It was the first time the Rural Women’s Award state finalists, summit for new and emerging industriesandtheHorizonscholarswerealltogether and interactive for the week,” the Garfield resident said.

“The horizon scholars are young leaders in their fields in university still studying some aspect of agriculture. Brilliant young minds. The future of Australian agriculture will be in good hands.

“It was a very well organised but exhausting week. The Rural Women’s Award state finalists made their pitches for the National Award on Tuesday. The national winner will be announced at the gale dinner at Parliament House on October 28.”

Canberra media, policymakers, and sector leaders were encouraged to engage throughout the week to witness firsthand the leadership, innovation and impact forged across Australia’s rural industries.

Magic beneath the mud: Sheree Marris dives in

By Violet Li

For years, marine biologist Sheree Marris believed she had to travel overseas to witness the world’s most spectacular marine life. But now, the award-winning environmental communicator has come full circle, realising the magic she’d been searching for has been in her backyard all along: Western Port Bay.

Her latest project, Western Port Down Under, is not just a documentary and a book. It’s a full-scale social impact campaign designed to showcase the rarely seen underwater world of the bay she grew up in, and to inspire a new generation of environmental stewards.

“Western Port is like the poor cousin to Port Phillip and the even poorer cousin to the Great Barrier Reef because it’s really muddy, because at times it can be really cold. But that is actually a part of its charm and its magic that I’m discovering,” she said.

“There’s a lot of pressure on Western Port, and one of the greatest challenges is that while there are all these great champions of trying to protect Western Port, we don’t really have a compelling narrative about what’s under the water.

“We know a lot about on top, but we’re not doing so well when it comes to showing the magic that is in the mud, that is in the mangroves, that is in the rocky reefs or the sandy plains, and that’s something that I love and that’s something that I know I do well and I want to work with amazing people to show this story.

“Because if people don’t know, they can’t care.”

So what’s under the water?

The team recently filmed soldier crabs inside self-made “muddy igloos”—tiny air bubbles they create underground to breathe.

“These are the type of things that really excite me because people think mud’s really boring. It’s not. It’s so cool, these animals,” Sheree said.

With world-class cinematography and compelling storytelling, the film will explore

everything from prehistoric marine creatures like elephant sharks and sevengill sharks, to vibrant nudibranchs, described by Sheree as

“land slugs on acid.”

“It’s this nursery. It’s this environment that cultivates a habitat for all these animals to come

and breed. It’s incredibly unique,” Sheree said.

“There are animals in the sea grass and in amongst the mangroves, and it’s just, anywhere you look, there is magic and there is wonder and there is still so much we don’t know.”

The Western Port Down Under social impact campaign, backed by the Unico Conservation Foundation, officially kicked off with the first community conversation set for Wednesday 13 August at Warneet Motor Yacht Club.

“I want the community to come along, but I want to learn from the community,” Sheree said.

“What do they know about Western Port that I don’t? Are there any secret little places? “I want to get the community to take ownership of that project because it’s not just my Western Port. It’s everyone’s Western Port, and I want them to become environmental stewards for this really unique place that we have.”

The centrepiece of the campaign is a documentary from the award-winning team behind Melbourne Down Under, which will be launched in the summer of 2026-27. But the team isn’t stopping at the film.

Sheree plans to host the footage, images, and research on a public online “legacy portal,” where students, scientists, and everyday nature lovers can explore the underwater world of Western Port.

The social impact campaign also includes other initiatives: a free school program, a discovery trail across key sites, a community screening roadshow, and a free marine media library to support local conservation.

While a teaser for the documentary has been completed with philanthropic support, Sheree and her team are now actively seeking additional funding to bring the full vision to life.

“It’s an underworld paradise and playground. People just do not realise the magic and how lucky we are to have it,” Sheree said.

To know more about the project, visit: westernportdownunder.com.au/

You can join the community conversation from 6pm to 8pm on Wednesday 13 August at Warneet Motor Yacht Club.

Lions lacklustre as rematch looms large

By Justin Schwarze

Pakenham will be hoping it’s not deja vu on Saturday after the Lions went down away at Seville in round 18 of Outer East Division 1.

Pakenham was unable to overcome a sluggish start after trailing 3.7(25) to 1.1(7) at quarter time, but the scoreboard didn’t reflect how dominant the Blues were. Seville missed multiple set shots from prime positions, letting the Lions off the hook momentarily.

However, a strong midfield performance on the home deck guided the hosts to a 10.13(73) to 7.9(51) victory.

“We were never really close,” Pakenham senior coach Justin Stanton admitted.

“We got 10 points down at three quarter time but the scoreboard indicated that it was game on, but we felt we never really got any momentum at all.

“That started in the first quarter, they dominated that quarter and if they had kicked accurately, they would’ve been further in front.

“Our numbers indicated that it was 17 inside 50s to five for the first quarter, so it was a clear dominance.”

With that, there was one key area that Stanton felt Seville separated itself in.

“They won the midfield battle,” he said.

“Credit to them, they just didn’t allow us to really get going or play our style.

“We turned the football over in dangerous parts of the ground which enabled them to be able to score on the back of that.

“We had our moments during the second and third quarter, but we failed to execute with set shots.

“Overall, the better team won and the margin was about right.

“We asked for an effort to start the last quarter but to Seville’s credit, they dominated the first 15 minutes of the fourth and put the game beyond reach.

“Going into the game, the stakes were high and there was a lot for us to achieve out of that game and nothing for them, but they were the ones that were more determined.

“We probably lowered our colours, that’s the second time we’ve let ourselves down this season, the first time was against Warburton earlier in the year.

“We just think our intensity wasn’t at the level it needed to be and that’s certainly what we’ll learn from it.

“We need to start better and we need to use the football better.

“They rely on turnovers to score as we do and they generated more turnovers than what we did.

“We thought they owned the outside and that’s where their strengths were, so we’ll look at that this week.

OUTER EAST FOOTBALL FOOTBALL - REVIEW/FINALS PREVIEW

“We basically chased them for big parts of the game, I think we won the tackle count but that’s because they had the footy.

“The midfield battle ended up being a good recess to them getting the result.”

The loss brings the home-and-away season to a close for Outer East Division 1.

Warburton Millgrove’s 20.17(137) to 4.2(26) win over Yarra Glen secured the minor premiership and finals week one bye for the Burras, meaning Pakenham will play Seville again this week in the qualifying final.

The Lions clinched a spot in the postseason with a record of 13-3 in Stanton’s first season at the helm.

“I’m very proud of their efforts during the home-and-away season,” Stanton said of his team.

“We didn’t know what the competition was

like and we aspired to play finals, so we’ve ticked that.

“We set the goal to win every home game and make that a fortress, we achieved that.

“There’s been lots of positives.”

AROUND THE GROUNDS

Powelltown ended club champion Ben Wratten’s career on a high with a 18.13(121) to 16.14(110) win over Yea.

Wratten pulled on the boots for the final time and recorded numbers of 47 disposals, 13 marks, 47 hitouts, six tackles and two goals.

The game concluded with Wratten booting a goal after the siren with the last kick of his career.

Belgrave will be feeling good entering the finals after belting Alexandra 20.9(129) to 11.10(76) at home, with the two set to meet again in this week’s elimination final.

Yarra Junction had the bye.

Pakenham’s quest begins

By Justin Schwarze

Pakenham has no time to rue Saturday’s round-18 performance with the Lions set to line up against Seville again in this week’s qualifying final.

Pakenham will look to its midfield as the area to build on after suffering a 22-point loss to the Blues in the final game of the home and away season.

The Lions turned the footy over and poorly distributed the ball, leading to scoring avenues opening for the Blues on a smaller deck.

The playing group and coaching staff will reassess this week, but there’s change coming in the middle.

“We’ve got a number of guys that go through the midfield so we’ll probably change a few things there and look to give a different balance in that midfield,” senior coach Justin Stanton said.

“We’ve just got to remind ourselves that we can get back to focusing on what we’ve done well during the year and play our brand of football.

“We’ve got to turn up with a better appetite for the contest.

“We’ll try and match them in the midfield and take our opportunities when we go forward.”

Finding the right targets efficiently in the front half will be massive in fuelling the result, as Pakenham uncharacteristically only had four players find the goals on Saturday.

Club-leading goalkicker Sam Cachia was limited to just one major, while Josh Haggar has gone goalless for two weeks.

“We certainly need a spread of goalkickers,” Stanton said on what’s important for the final.

“When we’re playing our best footy we’ve got a spread of goalkickers.

“The stakes are higher, finals football isn’t generally as free-flowing, so it’s important to take your opportunities when they come because there’ll be momentum swings.”

Gallant Kangaroos add one more twist to Outer East tale

By Justin Schwarze

Officer was feeling mischievous on Saturday as the Kangaroos spoiled Healesville’s chance to clinch a spot in the finals in round 17 of Outer East Premier Division.

The Bloods will now need to beat Gembrook Cockatoo in the final home-and-away round to punch their ticket to the postseason after Officer knocked them off 9.8(62) to 8.8(56) at Rob Porter Reserve.

It was a resilient and gutsy fight from the young Kangaroos, clawing their way back into the match after trailing by 19 points midway through the second term.

The persistence shown in the game has defined and embodied Nathan Allen’s side over the latter stages of 2025, with Officer going 4-4 over its last eight games after winning just one of its first 11 matches.

“It was just another even performance, we were consistent,” senior coach Allen said of Saturday’s win.

“The belief in the group went to another level again.

“We were strong enough at the contest again and we were able to own the outside.

“When we got the ball moving we were able to use our speed and skill on the outside and really challenge them defensively.

“It gave us enough chances up forward and we were able to convert.”

Allen has been a new voice amongst a list of youngsters.

He’s enjoyed coaching the youthful outfit, but it has come with its ups and downs.

“It’s about trusting each other and trusting the way we want to play and that belief,” Allen said of his keys.

“You combine those three things and it can go a long way.

“Everyone’s bought right in.

“It’s been super fun, the energy they bring is uplifting, it’s just about putting it together consistently.

“It’s been a lot of fun but also challenging because of those inconsistencies.

“The back half of the year it’s become better and better.”

Despite David Johnson’s best efforts, Emerald came up short after a crushing 11.8(74) to 10.10(70) defeat against Upwey Tecoma.

The Bombers led by eight at the final change and were massively boosted by Johnson’s eightgoal haul but ultimately the Tigers got home by three points.

Gembrook Cockatoo took it right to Wandin but fell by two goals, 14.8(92) to 12.8(80).

Robin Nahas posted 41 possessions, reeled in 11 marks and slotted two goals in defeat for the Brookers.

Daniel Willis was the best afield for the Bulldogs in the absence of Aaron Mullett, collecting 26 disposals and booting five majors.

Woori Yallock will finish second after getting the chocolates over Olinda Ferny Creek in a 11.12(78) to 11.11(77) thriller.

Francis Seal kicked four for the Bloods while Zach Monkhorst provided four goals of his own for the Tigers.

Monbulk overcame a seven-point halftime deficit to scrape out a 5.10(40) to 5.7(37) result against Mount Evelyn.

The Rovers managed the only goal in the fourth quarter in a low-scoring affair but couldn’t get over the line, sinking their hopes for finals.

Mount Evelyn will need to beat Woori Yallock in the final round of the home-and-away season and hope Healesville loses to earn a spot in the finals.

Seville pushes past Pakky

By Justin Schwarze

A stumble at the last home-and-away hurdle for Pakenham in the Outer East Division 1 A Grade Netball competition has created an odd trend across the entire landscape of the division.

Seville edged out the Lions 39-35 at home, earning the Blues the minor premiership.

But that’s not the only minor premiership the club secured, with every single Division 1 competition ladder ending with Seville first, Pakenham second and Warburton Millgrove third.

In the A Grade matchup, the Lions were playing catch-up most of the day, trailing by five at quarter time and eight at the half.

Pakenham brought it back to five at the end of the third and eventually drew within one goal in the fourth but ultimately fell short.

Eliza Molino was fantastic while Caitlin Cooke and Charlotte Hudolin starred in defeat.

At Powelltown Reserve, the Towners snuck by Yea 39-38 to grab their second win of the season. Yarra Glen upset Warburton Millgrove 39-38 on the road, coming from two goals behind at three quarter time to secure victory.

Belgrave was too strong at home as the Magpies held off Alexandra 51-41.

Yarra Junction had the bye.

Seville will now have the week off and Pakenham will face Warburton Millgrove at the Yarra Glen showgrounds in the qualifying final this week.

Yarra Glen will match up with Yarra Junction in the elimination final.

In Premier Division, ROC put together a professional performance to knock off Healesville 56-46.

The Kangaroos trailed by four at the first intermission before rolling in the second to take a 3128 advantage at the main break.

ROC dominated the third term, widening the margin to 47-35 at three quarter time to cruise into the four premiership points.

Leah Mibus’ hot late-season form continued as she was excellent alongside standout perfor-

Outer East Netball Scoreboard

PREMIER

AGRADE

OlindaFernyCreek47vWooriYallock54,ROC56v Healesville46,UpweyTecoma47vHealesville61,Monbulk50vMtEvelyn76,Gembrook-Cockatoo30vWandin 89.

BGRADE

OlindaFernyCreek47vWooriYallock59,ROC115v Healesville5,UpweyTecoma30Healesville58,Monbulk 42vMtEvelyn56,Gembrook-Cockatoo40vWandin47.

CGRADE

OlindaFernyCreek48vWooriYallock46,Upwey Tecoma33vHealesville39,Monbulk16vMtEvelyn51, Gembrook-Cockatoo20vWandin39.Bye:ROC.

DGRADE

OlindaFernyCreek38vWooriYallock37,Upwey Tecoma31vHealesville26,Monbulk25vMtEvelyn27, Gembrook-Cockatoo14vWandin24.Bye:ROC.

17UNDER

WooriYallock0vEmerald0,ROCWhite34vWandin18, Monbulk18vMtEvelyn46.Bye:ROCBlue.

15UNDER MonbulkGold25vMonbulkMaroon35,ROCBlue38v PakenhamGold7,ROCWhite19vPakenhamMaroon21. Bye:WooriYallock.

DIVISION1

AGRADE

WarburtonMillgrove38vYarraGlen39,Powelltown39v Yea38,Seville39vPakenham35,Belgrave51vAlexandra41.Bye:YarraJunction.

BGRADE

WarburtonMillgrove53vYarraGlen31,Powelltown37v Yea54,Seville52vPakenham34,Belgrave50vAlexandra37.Bye:YarraJunction.

CGRADE

WarburtonMillgrove44vYarraGlen23,Powelltown26v Yea49,Seville42vPakenham37,Belgrave38vAlexandra29.Bye:YarraJunction.

DGRADE

WarburtonMillgrove41vYarraGlen17,Powelltown17v Yea24,Seville31vPakenham17,Belgrave21vAlexandra19.Bye:YarraJunction.

17UNDER

PakenhamMaroon25vAlexandra16,Seville27vPakenhamGold14.Bye:PowelltownandWarburton-Millgrove.

OUTER EAST NETBALL NETBALL REVIEW

mances from Ella James and Jessica Postregna. Emerald kept up its winning ways by comfortably handling business against Upwey Tecoma 61-47.

The Bombers led at every change and resisted every advance made by the Tigers to get the result.

Madison Taylor was huge while Casey RhodesAnderson and Mackenzie Fox also had significant outputs.

Gembrook Cockatoo couldn’t keep up with Wandin, going down 89-30 at home.

Bianca Nagel, Charlotte McLeod and Amy Draper fought hard but the Bulldogs have their sights set on a finals double-chance.

Mount Evelyn seems destined to have the first week of finals off with the Rovers crushing Monbulk 76-50 on the Hawks’ home deck. Woori Yallock is locked in for finals with a solid 54-47 triumph over Olinda Ferny Creek. The Tigers fell behind by one at quarter time before hitting the front in the second and never looking back.

No stopping Casey in VFL finals charge

By Jonty Ralphsmith

A win over second-placed Box Hill has sealed

Casey a coveted spot in the VFL top six.

The victory is Casey’s fourth on the bounce to finish 2025 and means the club bypasses wildcard weekend of the VFL finals, earning them a weekend off before they play the winner of Richmond and GWS.

It’s a stunning surge for the Demons, which as recently as two weeks ago were no guarantee of even qualifying for wildcard round off the back of an inconsistent first half of the season and struggling to finish games off and has finished the season in fifth spot.

The turnaround after a 5-13 season which

placed them 17th to an 11-1-6 2025 is a testament to the strength of Casey’s core group of VFL-listed talent, many of which are locals.

Gippslander Riley Baldi’s return has proven invaluable, former AFL trio Riley Bonner, Deakyn Smith and Mitch Hardie have delivered as bigname recruits and youngsters Paddy Cross (Nar Nar Goon), Wardell Lual (Noble Park) and Jesse Craven (Tooradin) are all highly valued and have shown great progress.

Sunday’s win was a commanding result, with the 12.16(88) to 9.11(65) score line failing to reflect the true extent of the Demons’ dominance over the Hawks.

A five goal to one third quarter in favour of

Gippsland Power wins big

By Jonty Ralphsmith

LilyMilnerandBrookeKellyinspiredGippsland to a 5.18(48) to 4.5(29) victory over Sandringham at Shepley Oval on Saturday morning.

Milner continued her purple patch of form, finishing with 19 classy disposals and eight tackles in a clinical midfield display, while Kelly, a double bottom-ager, had a breakout game, of sorts, but finished with a wayward 1.7.

“She was best on ground today,” coach Michael Farmer said of Milner.

“The thing we love with Lily is she gives us really good run and carry with her disposal.

“We got a good look at that today but the best thing about Lily’s game was her ability to bring her teammates into it with her clearance work and unselfishness and contested work.

“Brooke was outstanding as well with her pressure and getting to the right spots to generate scores.

“On another day, she ends up with five or six.”

Gippsland opened up a 15-point quarter time lead, and never looked back thereafter, with the continued development of ruck Maya Crestani again impressing as she finished with a game-high 19 hitouts.

“She has been very good for us in the last month and probably got more game time for Vic Country last week,” Farmer said.

“Today, she was outstanding – it wasn’t just the numbers, but more where she was

Ella Stoddart, Grace Dillow, Zahri Burn and Melisssa Diggerman celebrate Gippsland’s victory. (Rob Carew: 496411)

putting the ball.

“She’s starting to get some really good direction with her taps.”

Meanwhile, intercept defender Ollie Wilson and small forward Keenan Boi led the Power’s boys to a comfortable 12.12(84) to 7.9(51) victory over Bendigo.

Wilson had 15 disposals and five marks, while Boi kicked 3.2 and had plenty of impact higher up the ground after being snubbed of Vic Country selection in an under-17s trial last Saturday.

Willem Duursma had 21 disposals and a goal, while fellow top prospects Brodie Atkins and Zach O’Keefe each spent extended periods of the match forward.

Casey flipped the game in the Dees’ favour after they had controlled large portions of the first half but failed to capitalise on the scoreboard.

Key forward Luker Kentfield kicked three second half goals to open up a lead and continue his push for a late-season AFL debut.

Jack Billings was comfortably the best on ground with 40 disposals, given space to do as he liked in the midfield, while Bonner also racked up 40 touches and Bailey Laurie impressed.

Meanwhile, Melbourne Next Generation Academy Draft prospect Toby Sinnema debuted for Casey, finding 15 disposals on the wing, using his piercing left foot to great effect and kicking a critical third-quarter goal.

Coe-existing

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Young Beaconsfield tall Harry Coe is quickly forging a reputation as a capable emerging ruck at VFL level.

Coe has been named in the best in eight of his 16 games for Frankston, averaging 23 hitouts and 13 disposals across that period.

He went toe-to-toe with 162-game Brisbane Lions AFL player Oscar McInerney in Frankston’s thrilling draw with the Lions and neutralised the ruck battle.

Coe finished with 38 hitouts, 18 disposals and three tackles, while McInerney had 23 hitouts, 16 disposals and three tackles.

It comes off the back of a heavily injuryinterrupted 2024 where he showed promise across seven games at the Dolphins, but had an injury setback each time he started to get momentum, with five separate types of injuries frustrating him last year.

After starting the year as a key forward and second ruck option, Coe has been Frankston’s starting ruck for his past 10 games.

“He’s started to really get on top around stoppages,” Frankston coach Jackson Kornberg said.

“He’s taken some really strong marks around the ground too which is really important as a ruck.

“His work rate has improved and he’s turned into a really solid contributor for us that the boys love playing with.”

Coe crossed from the VAFA to Beaconsfield ahead of the Covid-cancelled 2020 season, and has represented the Eagles senior side in 45 games, most recently in their preliminary final loss last season.

He played one game for Richmond Centrals earlier in 2025 as Frankston and Beaconsfield both had a bye and he was seeking match fitness but is a regular spectator at Beaconsfield games.

Stingrays go two from two

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Dandenong Stingrays first-round AFL Draft prospect Noah Hibbins-Hargreaves has provided a striking reminder of his talent with his most complete performance of the season.

Hibbins-Hargreaves had 29 disposals, took eight marks and kicked five goals in a performance where he showed all aspects of his skillset as an athletic neat-using, hard-running utility.

It follows an up-and-down National Championships for Vic Country, but his skillset, versatility and athletic profile have long been viewed as appealing.

The co-captain’s performance helped lead Dandenong to a comfortable 18.10(118) to 9.5(59) victory over GWV Rebels at Mars Stadium,

Ballarat, on Sunday.

Returning from schoolboy footy, strong marking forward Tairon Ah-Mu kicked 2.2 and took 10 marks, while Jack Lawrence and Louis Hodder each showed glimpses of their best.

Callum Smith led the midfield effort with 27 disposals and a goal, while bottom-ager Jackson Phillips and Beaconsfield’s Jay-de Varlet kicked two goals each.

Dandenong’s girls also eased past GWV 8.10(58) to 4.4(28).

Midfielder/halfback Matilda Argus had 24 disposals and five tackles, while Evelyn Connolly returned to her clever best around goals, kicking 2.3.

The Stingrays’ boys and girls teams close the home and away season with a Saturday evening double header at Shepley Oval.

Finals entree for Pakenham

Finals are now the focus for the Pakenham Pumas after a compelling last round of the season saw wins to B2 and C2 and A2 fight out a draw. Here’s how the weekend’s action played out.

A1

Pakenham Pumas fell just short to Mornington 4-1 on Saturday, as a hard display of attrition was just not enough to cross the line to ensure a finals appearance. The game started off slow but precise as each side came out of the first two innings scoreless. Some highlights of the innings included a double from Luke Anson, and a strong display of defence from the Pumas, with routine ground outs and fly outs. The scores opened up in the bottom of the third, as a home run to centre field from Mornington put two runs on the board. Another home run hit and error extended Mornington’s lead to 4-0 in the bottom of the fifth.

In an attempt to regain control, the Pumas came out in the seventh inning determined to win the game. Hiroke Goke walked, and a single by Taiga Saito, advanced the runner to second base. Another single by Yo Takehara advanced both runners even closer with Kyler Rinehart continuing the hitting showcase, singling, scoring one run. However, the momentum was cut short, as Mornington finished the innings with two fly outs, finishing the game at 4-1.

Hiroke Goke took the loss for Pakenham. The pitcher went three innings, allowing two runs (one earned) on four hits, striking out one and walking one. Luke Anson started on the bump; the hurler surrendered six hits and two runs over three innings, striking out two and walking none.

Daniel Harris and Kyler Rinehart each collected two hits and Rinehart went 2-for-4 at the plate and led the team with one run batted in.

Although defeated, a twist in fate kept the Pumas finals dreams alive. A win by Frankston against Dingley means Pakenham hold fourth spot on the ladder. The Pumas are determined to right this wrong against Mornington again this week!

A2

Pakenham finished off the season strong; time halting a sure victory as the scores reverted back to 8-8 in the top of the fifth against Mornington on Saturday, after leading the game 10-8.

The Pumas got on the board early after a steal of home from Felicity scored one run. Mornington captured the lead, 2-1 and extended to 3-1 in the bottom of the second. Pumas came back in the third; a walk for Matthew Mills, and a single by Felicity put the Pumas in scoring position. Rhys McKenzie then grounded out, advancing Mills to score a run. Bringing the margin back to 3-2. Mornington then went 7-2 ahead before Pumas flipped the game in the top of the fourth, scoring an impressive six runs. One came off the bat of Will to take the lead, 8-7. The biggest blow in the inning was a wild pitch that drove in three. Mornington came out with a single down the left field line, which helped tie the game at 8-8 in the bottom of the fourth.

Pakenham came out in the top of the fifth with mission to win the game. A hit-by-pitch to Tristan Hill created the spark, and a walk to Mathew Howden and a ground out by Connor set up the runners at second and third base for a blueprint that was needed. Then steps in Coadhey. On the final pitch of a full count, the slugger hit a perfect line drive to centrefield, scoring the runners on second and third, making the score 10-8 in the top of the fifth. His team mates celebrated for the young baller.

Unfortunately, time got the best of the Pumas meaning that the scores were reverted back to 8-8 as the fifth inning was not able to be completed.

Daniel Harris started on the hill; the starter gave up zero hits and three runs (one earned) over two innings, striking out one and walking two. Coadhey, the number nine hitter for Pakenham Pumas A2, led the way with three runs batted in. The infielder went 1-for-2 on the day. Coadhey, Will, and Felicity each collected one hit for Pakenham Pumas A2. Mills led Pakenham Pumas A2 with three walks. Overall, the team had a strong eye at the plate, collecting nine walks for the game. Clissold stole three bases. Although on paper the result displayed a draw, the Pakenham Pumas celebrated what felt like a moral victory.

B1

Pumas B1 closed out their season on Saturday with a spirited performance against Berwick Dodgers. While the Dodgers took the win 16–4, the Pumas showed plenty of grit and energy. Berwick jumped out to an early lead, but the Pumas kept pushing. Andrew Mayberry opened on the

mound and worked hard against a strong batting line-up, while Kyle Peck came in for four steady innings of relief, keeping things composed and giving the Pumas a chance to stay in the contest. Offensively, Chris Appleby led the way with two solid hits from four at-bats, reminding everyone of his reliability at the plate. The Pumas also put on a show with their aggressive base running, racking up five stolen bases.

Although the scoreboard wasn’t in their favour, the Pumas finished their season displaying the hustle, teamwork, and never-give-up spirit that has defined their campaign. The team can look back proudly on their growth and the moments of brilliance that promise even more to come in the future.

B2

Pakenham Pumas roared to a 4–0 win over Berwick Dodgers on Saturday, proving once again that you don’t mess with a Puma when it’s hungry for runs. It didn’t take long for “Big Swing” Travis Hough to get things rolling, smacking a single in the first inning to put the Pumas on the board. A few innings later, “Steady Eddy” Andrew Mayberry patiently strolled to first on a walk, nudging the lead to 2–0. Sometimes standing still is the best way to move ahead.

On the mound, “Just-In-Time” Justin Mazurek was cooler than a cucumber in a freezer. He tossed four innings of two-hit, no-run baseball, striking out four and - get this - walking zero. The Dodgers batters might as well have brought fly swatters instead of bats.

Not to be outdone, “Cool Hand Luke” Billing came in for three innings of relief and locked the game down tighter than a jar of Nanna’s pickles. He gave up just three hits while adding a strikeout and a leisurely stroll issued to first base.

The bats were busy too. “Ray Gun” Pal blasted in two RBIs from the nine spot; showing that sometimes the tail of the lineup has the sting. Meanwhile, “Wayno the Machine” Porter and “Granite” Grant Miller both collected a pair of hits each, because why let the fun stop at one?

The Pumas also flashed some leather with a slick double play that had the Dodgers looking around like they’d just misplaced their car keys.

All in all, the Pumas were sharper, faster, and just a little cheekier on the day, sending the Dodgers home with nothing but dust on their cleats and stories to tell.

C2

With a finals spot locked away the Pumas took on second place Frankston hoping to build some momentum for next week. James Kinsella started on the mound and despite struggling to find the zone the Pumas were able to hold the away team to just two runs. Angus led off for the Pumas getting on base and eventually came home on a groundout to bring the score to 2-1. Neither team was able to trouble the scoreboard in the second inning.

Anthony Clissold came on in relief to pitch in

the third and Frankston had no reply and were held scoreless again. Pumas were then able to score three runs to open up a 4-2 lead.

Clissold continued his good work with Frankston only able to grind out a couple more runs and with 15mins remaining the scores were tied 4-4 with the home side still to bat. Andrew ‘Tangles’ Moran did his job in the lead off position drawing a walk with Angus taking over as a substitute runner. They say speed kills and it was certainly the case here as Angus easily stole second and then on the next pitch stole third forcing an error as Frankston threw the ball away. With the ball trickling away to the outfield Angus was able to quickly get to his feet and scamper home for the winning run. A great result and solid performance for the Pumas who face Frankston in a rematch in the first week of finals.

WOMEN’S WHITE

Pumas Women’s White came agonisingly close to pulling off a stunning comeback on Sunday, falling just one run short in a 12-11 thriller against Chelsea at Springvale Road.

There was no shortage of highlights for the Pumas, who played with plenty of spirit and flair. None shone brighter than Emily Devine, who was simply outstanding at the plate. Devine went a perfect four-for-four, including a booming double in the first inning that set the tone for her day. The Pumas made their intentions clear early, piling on four runs in the opening frame thanks to Devine’s double, a two-run single from Katherine Walton, and a clever groundout RBI from Johanna Blackler. It was exactly the kind of start the team was after, showing they weren’t going to be intimidated by Chelsea’s strong lineup.

Chelsea managed a big reply, but the Pumas never dropped their heads. Instead, they chipped away, and by the fourth and fifth innings they had fought their way back into the contest. Devine, Walton, and Danni Wilson were key contributors, with timely hits and patience at the plate bringing crucial runs across. One of the biggest talking points of the afternoon was the Pumas’ daring work on the bases. In a display that had the crowd buzzing, the team racked up an astonishing 20 stolen bases, with speedsters Wilson, Devine, Walton, Felicity Clissold, and Emily Williams all causing headaches for the Chelsea defence. On the mound, Williams battled hard, striking out four across her outing and showing plenty of composure in tricky situations.

Chelsea just managed to hold off the fast-finishing Pumas, but the narrow margin was proof of the fight and resilience that defines this young side.

WOMEN’S BLACK

Pumas Women’s Black took on the Frankston crew, and while the scoreboard said 10-1 to Frankston, the game itself was packed with action, laughs, and some sneaky superhero moves from the Pumas.

Things kicked off hot when Jess “Clutch

Queen” Moulding smacked a single in the first inning, driving in a run and putting the Pumas on the board before Frankston even knew what hit them. But Frankston answered back fast, jumping to the lead like they’d had one too many energy drinks. By the third inning, they’d stretched things out to 7-1.

On the mound, Jess started things off, battling through two innings while keeping the Frankston bats honest. Then Olivia “The Heat” Garcia came in from the bullpen, firing three innings of gutsy relief. Not only did she deal with batters on the hill, but she pulled off one of the coolest defensive plays of the day - snagging a rocket line drive and doubling off the cheeky runner at first who forgot the golden rule: tag up or get toasted.

At the plate, Jess was a perfect 1-for-1 with the RBI, while Liz “Big Bat” Talauega racked up two impressive hits. Meanwhile, Olivia turned on the jets to steal not one, but TWO bases, and the whole squad combined for five stolen bags, proving the Pumas had turbo boosters strapped to their cleats.

Pumas brought the chaos and a whole lot of personality to the diamond. After all, anyone can win a game, but not everyone can win the crowd.

UNDER 15

Pumas took on Frankston Red this week and despite the result there were still plenty of positives. Pakenham was unable to score in the first and despite not allowing any hits and striking out three, Frankston was able to take advantage of walks to score four runs in the first.

In the second the Pumas got on the board when Dane walked, Liam followed up with a double and Hunter also walked to set up a basesloaded situation. It was then Tim who stepped up to the plate hitting a Grand Slam home run to drive in four to tie the game.

But that was it for Pumas; the home team added another five runs to come away with a 9-4 win. Despite the result the Puma pitchers (Ian, Timmy and Liam) combined to strikeout 11 Frankston batters across four innings and only gave up three hits. Finals start this week with a rematch against Frankston Red.

UNDER 13

Pakenham Under 13s faced off against OrmondGlen Huntley-Dingley falling to a 3-9 loss. Neither team was able to get anything going in the first going three-up-three-down. Isaac led off the second with a walk and the rest of the Pumas showed great patience with another three walks to score the first run of the game. OGHD hit back though with three consecutive hits to flip the score 2-1 their way. At the top of the third a double by Amelia, a single by Noah and then a triple by Morgan gave Pumas back the lead 3-2. The see-saw continued though as OGHD scored another two runs giving them a 4-3 lead. The season is not over for Pakenham, who face topplaced Frankston in a knock out 1 v 4 final.

-James Kinsella and Jessica Moulding-

Woeful night for Warriors

By Justin Schwarze

Finals basketball is all about how you respond to pressure and adversity.

The Pakenham Warriors Championship Women will need to shake off Saturday’s semi-final result after the Warriors couldn’t get anything going offensively and were dealt with by tabletoppers Bellarine 73-52.

It was a woeful night shooting the ball for Elli Gibson’s side with the team converting just 19/78 shots for the game, sub-25 percent.

Pakenham was the number one scoring team in the regular season, averaging over 85 points per game while dishing out 19.4 assists per game, the league’s second-best mark.

But on Saturday, the team recorded just 52 points and six assists, both season-lows.

The Storm took advantage of the poor shooting, getting out and running to record 18 fastbreak points, which proved to be the difference and then some for coach Gibson.

“Defensively I felt we were pretty poor, we gave up 18 fast-break points which is really unlike us,” she said.

“In a 20-point loss and you give up 18 in layups, it hurts.

“I thought defensively we weren’t on the same page, we didn’t follow a scout, we didn’t follow our defensive rules and credit to Bellarine, they shot extremely well and got the shots they wanted and converted.”

The Warriors just couldn’t get anything to go down with the squad not making a three until midway through the third quarter.

Pakenham got within eight points with nine minutes remaining in the third but once again the offence dried up and from there the Warriors only scored 26 points for the remainder of the contest.

“It’s definitely the lowest points we’ve put up this year, my three starting guards went 4/42 which didn’t help,” Gibson noted.

“Our shots just unfortunately didn’t drop which made things really tricky for us.

“I thought we got open looks, we just didn’t hit them.

“It wasn’t just one person missing shots, it was the majority so it became a bit contagious.

“We probably lost a bit of composure.

“It’s a hard one, we just didn’t play the way we wanted to.”

The good news is that Pakenham has a good shot at redemption this week when Bulleen visits Cardinia Life for the preliminary final.

A refreshed mindset and plenty of learnings has Gibson focused on the upcoming challenge.

“It’s going to be about sticking to our brand of basketball and getting the game on our terms,” she mentioned as the key to Saturday.

Multiple Big V highlights for talented bunch from Pakky

By Justin Schwarze

Pakenham Warriors have enjoyed plenty of success in 2025 with the Youth League Men hanging the first banner in the rafters and the Championship Women still well in contention for a flag of their own.

But there have also been plenty of individual highlights, with a number of players from different outfits being nominated for Big V awards.

In the Championship Women, Grace Graham and Eliza Hollingsworth are both finalists for All Star Five.

Graham finished second in the league for scoring, averaging just under 22 points per game for the season.

Hollingsworth provided excellent interior play, averaging 15.7 points, 11.7 rebounds and 1.1 blocks on 40 percent shooting.

Ned Carr was the lone member of the Championship Men to be nominated as a finalist for All Star Five with the recruit blossoming in his first season at Pakenham.

His season figures of 22.5 points, 9.8 rebounds, 2.5 blocks and 1.4 steals on near-50 percent shooting put him among the best in the league.

The Youth Men saw four members of its starting unit be named a finalist for All Star Five, with Mason Fraser, Kaleb Beveridge, Aaron Small and Mitch Zeunert all in the running.

Small was also one of five finalists for the Youth League One Defensive Player of the Year after averaging 1.9 steals per game while being one of the best on-ball pressure players in the competition. Newly-crowned premiership coach Braden

a finalist for Championship Men

(Stewart Chambers: 474318)

Venning was among five finalists for the league’s coach of the year, an award he would be the redhot favourite for after the impressive finals run he and his team ventured on.

“Having the coaching staff I do is phenomenal,” Venning said after his side’s grand final triumph.

“A lot of sleepless nights in finals making sure we’re ticking every box.

“I improved as a coach, we added new things offensively and defensively.”

The Big V awards night is on Saturday 6 September.

“We need to make sure we are on the same page offensively and defensively so we’ve got that cohesion and can play off each other.

“If we can hit some shots, that will definitely help us out.

“We’re looking for a lot of penetration and hitting receiver spots.

“A lot of attacking the paint, I think the last few weeks we’ve settled for too many perimeter shots so just making the opposing defence more accountable.

“Defensively we need to follow a scout and our team rules for the whole game.”

The Warriors went 2-1 against the Boomers in the regular season, including comfortably handling business at home 88-65 in round 15 in the most recent matchup.

Bulleen upset McKinnon in the semi-final 8168 on the road, led by Jennie Rintala’s 22 points and nine rebounds.

The prelim final is at 7pm at Cardinia Life on Saturday.

Perfect weekend for Storm

By Blair Burns

Cardinia Storm won all three senior matches last weekend, which started with a 2-0 victory in the Women’s Metro 1 South competition.

The Storm did enough to defeat a brave Glen Eira side as Deane Blignaut and Zena Nicholas found the back of the net for the visitors.

While it was a hard-fought contest, it was a game that Cardinia was expected to win, given the side sits in third position on the ladder with a 12-5 record, compared to Glen Eira’s 3-13 season.

The Storm have been well led by captains Teagan Peterson and Alana Nancarrow and will look to finish off the home-and-away season well against second-placed Mentone this weekend.

In the Men’s Metro 1 South competition, it was the Storm who won a thriller, prevailing against St Bede’s to win 1-0.

St Bede’s only have three wins for the season, and Cardinia has a contrasting 10 wins and sits in third place on the ladder.

However, this hasn’t stopped the games between these two sides from being very close throughout the season, and St Bede’s, who are a bit of a bogey side for the Storm, even won the last clash 1-0.

A quick and brilliant combination from Scott Burnett and Jean Blignaut put the ball in a dangerous spot for Cardinia, but the St Bede’s defenders held firm.

Adam Welcome led the Storm’s defence as the team pushed forward, but the side couldn’t convert on some great attacking plays.

Well … not until Kieran McLellan got a de-

flection and found the back of the net, putting the Storm in front 1-0 – the margin remained for the home side to register a crucial win.

Cardinia heads into its next match against Monash with momentum and a clear sense that the team is building well towards finals.

The Storm’s biggest win of the weekend came from the Men’s Metro 2 South team, who defeated OHA 4-1 in a big result for the side.

Captain Scott Burnett led from the front with two goals, while Ben Albrecht was also at his best, netting two himself.

It was a strong four-quarter effort, with great ball movement from Daniel Albrecht, Brandon Rose and Daniel Cullen which helped set up some impressive goals.

One round remains before finals and Cardinia Storm will be hoping, that with some good results this weekend, all three sides can go deep in the post-season.