News - Cranbourne Star News - 27th November 2025

Racing colours

It was elegance personified as contestants paraded for Fashion on the Field at the annual Cranbourne Cup on Saturday. Huge crowds filled Cranbourne Racetrack for a day brimming with entertainment, fashion and racing.

More on the Cup, turn to page 12 and see Sport

Fashion on the Field is a highlight of the Cup. (Rob Carew: 519196)

Clyde left waiting

By Violet Li

The long-awaited Clyde Railway extension has been left off the State’s 30-year priority list, disappointing Casey residents who have waited more than two decades for rail.

Casey Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen said the decision does not reflect the demands of the south east, with the corridor’s population expected to reach 260,000 by 2046.

Council had called for the project to be upgraded to a “priority recommendation”, arguing it would close transport gaps and support eco-

Infrastructure Victoria’s (IV) final 2025–2055 strategy again lists the project—extending and electrifying the Cranbourne line to Clyde with three new stations—as a “future option”, meaning no government action is required within the next five years.

nomic growth.

Vice president of local advocacy group CRRA said a “future option” is “at best, a maybe”, despite residents already facing long commutes, congestion and limited alternatives to driving.

Nearly 97 per cent of Casey residents support the extension.

In contrast, IV elevated two northern projects—new Beveridge and Campbellfield stations,

plus the Upfield line duplication—to recommendations, citing strong economic returns, major housing capacity and severe transport constraints.

IV acknowledged Casey’s concerns but said recent upgrades on the Cranbourne line and the higher-value network benefits in the north influenced its prioritisation. Full story page 4

Lost WWII relic uncovered

Clyde North Salvos has uncovered and returned a long-lost World War II flag that originally belonged to the 2/2nd Field Regiment, and the historic artefact will be displayed at the Shrine of Remembrance next year.

On Friday 21 November, a donation ceremony was held at the store, where the flag was officially handed over to the 2/2nd Field Regiment Association.

The fragile flag, covered in 28 handwritten signatures believed to be signed by Australian soldiers who served for the 2/2nd Field Regiment during World War II, was discovered by store staff member Kylie Baker.

While routinely sorting through donations, she noticed the flag and immediately recognised it was not a normal flag, an instinct from someone whose parents are RSL members.

Kylie’s parents, Denis Holland and Sue Holland, members of Springvale RSL, helped investigate the origin of the flag.

“I think when you look at the flag itself, you see that it’s full of signatures. 28 people have signed it. You don’t normally see a flag like that, unless it belongs to a group or a battalion,” Denis said.

“Kylie just thought that it must be of some significance. She’s not sure how it actually arrived at the Salvos. It was just donated.

“It’s not something that you would sell either.

You couldn’t sell it to anybody. It’s too precious.”

On the bottom edge of the flag, the couple spotted the words ‘2/2 FLD REG”, a reference to the 2/2nd Field Regiment of the Australian Army, an artillery regiment that served in the Middle East and New Guinea during the Second World War.

Sue soon found the recently rebuilt website of the 2/2nd Field Regiment Association, where she found the contact details for its president, Malcolm Fallon.

“It was just a series of coincidences, and the timing of it is just incredible,” Malcolm said.

“They (Denis and Sue) got on our website, which we’ve just spent hundreds and hundreds of hours building, and they found my name and email and contacted me.

“If we hadn’t rebuilt that, they would never have found us.”

He began his own research after the couple sent through some detailed images. He individually examined each signature and soldier number, many beginning with “VX”, indicating enlistment in Victoria. Malcolm cross-referenced the names through the National Archives to confirm their deployment history. His research pointed to the flag being signed in 1940 or 1941, most likely from the Middle East, but he still needs to find out whether the flag was signed going to or from the Middle East.

“It makes it 80 to 85 years old. It’s very fragile. We’ve got to work out now what we’re going to

do with it, how we frame it or how we preserve it, so we’re going to get some expert advice on what’s the best thing to do to make sure that it’s preserved forever,” Malcolm said.

Another coincidence is that the regiment had been working for a couple of years with the Shrine of Remembrance to curate a major exhibition in April next year. One of the missing artefacts was an original wartime flag signed by unit members.

“This flag will form part of the original memorabilia to be displayed at the Shrine, which may have ended up in a rubbish bin and never to be seen again,” Malcolm said.

“It is of historical significance not only to us but to Australia.”

Malcolm praised and thanked Salvos for the way they handled and looked after the flag.

“Everything the Salvos did was textbook preserving and looking after it, and we’ll be forever grateful,” he said.

Salvos regional manager Leigh Murphy described the donation as “incredibly rare” and a testament to the diligence of the Clyde North team.

“We presented it to the president of 2/2nd Field Regiment, and they’re actually in the midst of preparing an exhibition for the Shrine of Remembrance in April next year, and the one thing they didn’t have was the original flag from their field regiment. And using the words from them, this is one of the most prized possessions that they have to showcase at the Shrine,” he said.

“That’s really significant in our nation’s history, of military personnel who served overseas in World War II.

“We certainly don’t get this type of donation every day, but the team did the research and made sure it went back to the right hands and where it belongs.

“I think for our community, please continue to come and donate your pre-loved goods at any one of our Salvos stores around the area… Our team will take the right care for those donations and pre-loved goods that you do give to us and ensure that they’re respected.”

Malcolm said they still need to find out who actually held the flag.

“We believe the owner of the flag got to live somewhere in the eastern corridor,” he said.

“We’re sort of at a loss to know any more history, and there are no soldiers alive now; they’ve all passed away, so a little bit of the histories or unknown history is gone with those men, and most probably never be able to be retrieved unless we could find a descendant that the father had told the story.

“That’s why we’d like to find the person who actually owned the flag. We’d love to hear from any family that knows any of the history of it.”

Denis recalled the day of the official donation ceremony.

“We had other people there, but me handing it over to Malcolm brought tears to my eyes and to his eyes because of the significance,” he said.

Development plan probed

By Violet Li

Casey Council and developer Browns Property Group faced probing questions from residents over a plan to build more than 1000 homes on the Cranbourne Golf Course during two objector-only information sessions held last Thursday and Friday.

Despite multiple requests, Star News was not permitted to attend the meetings, being told they were not open to the general public, including the media.

Unless one of the three councillors who attended the meetings “calls it in,” the decision on the site at 750 Glasscocks Road will be made under delegation by council officers and will not be debated at a public council meeting. This was reiterated in both sessions, attendees have told Star News.

According to the invitation emails sent to the objectors, the purpose of the meeting was to provide a forum for all parties to explain their views relating to the application, an opportunity to “clarify grounds for objection, ask questions relating to the application, and be provided with information on the next steps of the assessment and decision-making process”.

About 11 objectors attended the first meeting on the night of Thursday 20 November, while three attended the second on the morning of Friday 21 November.

Both sessions ran for just one hour and followed a similar structure: a brief five-minute presentation from Browns Property Group, followed by five themed discussions on infrastructure and traffic, environmental concerns, community and social impacts, and design and development issues.

Councillors Kim Ross, Gary Rowe and Lynette Pereira attended the first session, and Cr Ross and Cr Rowe also attended the second one.

One moment that stood out in the memories of the first-session participants was when one of the councillors tried to ask a question, and the councillor was told by a council officer that they were there to listen and observe, not ask questions.

Star News previously wrote a story on residents’ concerns about the permit application, including the traffic congestion, the loss of green space, including about 4000 trees, the capacity of local infrastructure (schools, kindergartens, GPs), and the risk from the nearby landfill (odour and leachate), and many of the concerns were discussed again during the meetings.

“They (Browns Group) tried to clarify what they’ve done and why they’ve done some of those points in their development plans,” one attendant said, who preferred to be anonymous due to private reasons.

“When we talked about the traffic and everything, they were like, well, that’s a Casey problem. That’s a State Government problem.

“(Their point is) we’re not here to deal with in-

frastructure. We’re just here to develop the land, and we asked about the schools, and they said, well, that’s the same Government problem.”

The attendant said their take was that none of the concerns from the objectors’ side were meaningfully addressed.

“It was just for them to tell us what they wanted.

“When we reasserted that we’re concerned about the traffic and not enough green space, they were like, we’ve followed the planning principles.

“And that’s our research. They will try and explain to us why they made these decisions.”

But the attendant admitted that they did feel better after the meeting because they got to talk about their concerns, and the developer got to explain what they were doing, despite nothing being seemingly resolved at the end of the meeting.

Another objector, who had a background in building estates, said he was “perfectly happy” after going to the meeting. He had environmental and engineering concerns before the meeting.

“Out of all the developers I’ve come across, Brown’s stands out far and above the other. Now you have to trust these developers to a certain extent,” he said.

“We’ve got a lot more single mothers. They have to get a house, and they can only afford this. They can’t afford a normal block of land. I’m starting to understand that now.

“We always had that thing, they put all these blocks and lots into a development because it means more money for the council and more money for the developer, and to a certain extent,

that’s true, but that’s not entirely true.

“It’s market-driven and society-driven. People don’t understand that.”

Star News also talked to other objectors. Some of their concerns were still not resolved, and they left with more questions than answers. Some said the meetings did clarify some concerns for them.

When it comes to the next step for the permit application, they were told at the meeting that a strict statutory 60-day decision deadline fell on some day before Christmas, meaning a decision would be expected the week before Christmas.

Objectors were told that they had already paused the clock earlier in the year, and given that there was now sufficient information, they could not legally pause it again.

If the Council fails to decide within the statutory deadline, Browns Property Group can bring the permit to the VCAT.

“This permit should be decided by our councillors, not by VCAT,” Jill Nambu, one of the objectors, said.

“That’s what they were elected to do. They’re elected to represent their constituents.

“I think the councillors needed to make a decision based on the law, but also the community’s concerns, their requests, and their needs.

“At least one of them should be calling it in and really putting the people’s voice in. I mean, this is a democracy. They have the right to call it in.”

Ms Nambu is not satisfied with the developer’s answers to the community’s concerns at the meeting.

“There needs to be conversations from Brown, from the council with the State. We can’t just say,

it’s the State’s responsibility, but not actually have conversations with them,” she said.

“I understand that we don’t have enough homes. Don’t get me wrong. But people shouldn’t have to suffer because of poor planning. How many times do we get people complaining about the roads around here because they are not having conversations?”

Star News contacted Browns Property Group to inquire if they had submitted or planned to submit any amendments after the objector meetings. They didn’t get back before the deadline.

Star News contacted Casey Council to inquire about the specific date for the permit outcome, and if any councillors indicated that they were going to “call it in” at the December meeting. Casey Council has advised that they cannot comment or foreshadow what decision the councillors will make regarding the delegations for this application.

A City of Casey spokesperson said that council officers were assessing the planning permit application.

“We acknowledge the high community interest in this application, and to ensure as many community members could make a submission to the process as possible, Council extended the public notice period from the statutory 14 days to a 28-day period.

“The Objector Meeting provided an additional opportunity for community members to express their concerns with the application. No decisions were made at this meeting; it was an additional opportunity to hear directly from community members.”

Berwick local to brave golf marathon for cancer research

By Violet Li

A Berwick local will brave a 72-hole golf marathon in Cranbourne next month to help drive cancer research.

Berwick professional golfer Danika Coyne will step onto the first tee at Cranbourne’s Settlers Run Golf & Country Club on Monday 8 December to play 72 holes in a single day, raising funds for Cancer Council Victoria’s charity event, The Longest Day.

For the 26-year-old, the fundraising is personal.

Earlier this year, Danika’s mother was diagnosed with breast cancer after what was meant to be a routine mammogram.

The shock diagnosis led to multiple surgeries, including a double mastectomy and the removal of lymph nodes. She now faces chemotherapy and radiation.

“It’s obviously given her a massive setback from doing her normal everyday things, so she’s unable to make the bed, hang out the washing, just do the normal stuff that she used to do,” Danika said.

“She’s a little bit depressed, I should say.

“But she’s getting there slowly, I think, as it gets easier for her. It’s just she feels okay after the surgery and recovery, and then she’ll have another procedure, and then she’ll feel pretty crappy again.

“Up and down, long wait, long journey.”

Danika said this personal experience motivated her to fundraise for Cancer Council for the first time.

“Because it is so personal to me, it’s something I want to do,” she said.

“I think it’s just nice that everyone gets on board. Although I don’t think we should just be having this day just to raise money for cancer.

“I think we should just be doing it in general, and hopefully we can eventually get to the end of it and hopefully get some sort of cure.”

Danika is among many Australians signing up for The Longest Day, Cancer Council’s nationwide golf marathon that challenges players to complete 36, 54 or 72 holes in a single day to raise money for cancer research.

Participants can complete their challenge anytime during November or December, with funds supporting research, prevention and support services.

Cancer Council Victoria CEO Todd Harper AM said nearly all Victorians will be affected by cancer at some point in their lives, whether directly or through the experiences of a loved one.

“It’s a sad reality that about one in two of us will be diagnosed with cancer by the age of 85, but by working together, we can all play a part in reducing the impact of cancer for all Victorians,” he said.

“Thanks to investment in research, amazing advancements have been made in cancer

prevention, screening and treatment – helping increase survival rates from 51 per cent in the late 1980s to around 71 per cent today.

“However, with cancer still the leading cause of death in Victoria, and 33 Victorians dying from cancer each day, there is still so much that needs to be done.”

Danika has been playing golf since age four and hopes to join the WPGA Tour next year. The 26-year-old professional admitted that completing 72 holes in one day is “very difficult”.

“Not only physical, but mentally as well. It’s very, very hard. You’ve got to stay motivated, stay concentrated,” she said.

This is also the first year Settlers Run Golf & Country Club decided to host The Longest Day, after strong member interest and Danika’s encouragement.

The event quickly booked out, with about 24 local golfers forming six groups.

So far, Danika has raised around $2,000, with hopes to keep climbing.

She said the community had been wonderful and supportive.

She is also planning a separate charity golf day in February next year, donating 20 per cent of the proceeds to Cancer Council.

Now, she’s hoping a nice weather on the big day.

“I’ve tried to do the 14-day forecast, and it only says about 22 degrees, but you know what Melbourne’s like. It changes very fast,” she said.

Anthony Tassone, vice president of local advocacy group Casey Residents and Ratepayers Association

Rail disappointment

By Violet Li

The long-awaited Clyde Railway extension has been left off the State’s 30-year priority list, disappointing a community that has waited more than two decades for rail.

Infrastructure Victoria (IV), the State’s independent infrastructure advisory body, released the final version of Victoria’s infrastructure strategy 2025–2055 in November. Clyde Railway extension, which would extend and electrify the Cranbourne line to Clyde and build three new stations (Cranbourne East, Casey Fields, and Clyde), has again been listed only as a “future option”.

Under IV’s framework, “future options” identify projects Victoria will likely need over the next 30 years but do not require government action within the next five years, and the State Government is not required to formally respond.

By contrast, “recommendations” require government responses and are intended to begin within the next five years.

IV notes that more than 80 per cent of its 2021 recommendations have since been implemented or progressed.

Casey Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen said Council is “disappointed” with IV’s assessment, saying the status does not reflect the scale of demand in the south east.

“The construction of the Clyde Rail Link would connect the growing communities of Cranbourne East, Clyde, Botanic Ridge, Devon Meadows and Junction Village to the services they need, provide hundreds of local jobs and stimulate the local economy,” he said.

“With these suburbs projected to reach a combined population of around 260,000 by 2046, the status of the extension to the Clyde Railway Line remaining a ‘future option’ in Infrastructure Victoria’s 30-year Strategy doesn’t reflect the needs of our community.”

Casey Council submitted to IV during the draft strategy stage, calling for the extension to be upgraded from a future option to a “priority recommendation”, which would compel government action within five years.

It stated the project would complement other public transport reforms addressing “transport gaps, competitive travel times, and interchange opportunities”.

Anthony Tassone, vice president of local advocacy group Casey Residents and Ratepayers Association (CRRA), said they are also disappointed.

“In practical terms, a future option is not a guarantee - at best, it’s a maybe, and that’s not good enough for a region experiencing some of the fastest population growth in the country,” he said.

“Residents in Cranbourne East, Clyde North and Clyde are living with the consequences right now: long commute times, daily congestion, overstretched roads and limited alternatives to

driving.”

CRRA’s submission to IV highlights that almost 97 per cent of Casey residents support the Clyde line extension.

Mr Tassone said IV’s own data on population density, transport boardings and job access within a 45-minute commute justified prioritising the project in the short term.

A comparison between IV’s draft and final strategies shows that two northern-suburb projects — new stations at Beveridge on the Seymour lineandCampbellfieldontheUpfieldline—were added to “recommendations”. The duplication of the Upfield line was also added.

Mitchell Shire Council welcomed the inclusion, saying they are two major priorities for the Mitchell’s growing community.

IV’s final strategy outlines why these projects were prioritised. The strategy highlights that improving Upfield services could enable around 11,000 new homes to be built in established suburbs such as Brunswick and Coburg instead of growth areas, saving around $400 million in public infrastructure costs.

Improved frequencies would also significantly expand job access, allowing Campbellfield residents to reach 32,000 more jobs within 45 minutes by public transport and Coburg residents to reach up to 90,000 more.

Beveridge’s rapid growth — expected to reach 75,000 residents by 2041, up from just 4,300 in 2021 — and its limited road and bus connections also played a major role.

The strategy notes that Beveridge currently has only four weekday peak-hour bus services and just two arterial road connections, leaving it highly vulnerable to disruption.

Early delivery, the strategy states, would help households avoid buying extra cars and improve access to jobs and services.

A spokesperson for IV acknowledged community disappointment in Casey and said many residents raised concerns about parking, road congestion and long commute times during consultation.

However, they said their prioritisation was shaped by network-wide considerations.

“We know communities around Cranbourne and Clyde have seen the benefits of the recent rail investments from the Cranbourne line duplication and the boosting of peak train services to an average of every 10 minutes. Similar investments are needed on the Upfield line to improve train frequency, and to reduce delays and disruptions associated with a single-track section,” they said.

“Both prior investment in the Cranbourne line upgrade and Infrastructure Victoria’s proposed Upfield line upgrade set up the rail network to allow for rail extensions to serve new communities.”

The spokesperson also said their decision to emphasise the need for a new station at Beveridge is based on the fact that it is a new station,

Where the $1m from Veolia’s fine will go

By Violet Li

Earlier this month, the Supreme Court of Victoria fined Hallam Road landfill operator Veolia $1 million for multiple breaches of its operating licence and for failing to comply with its general environmental duty.

but on an existing rail line, with very limited road and bus connections.

“This presents a relatively low-cost opportunity to improve accessibility in the surrounding suburbs, just like our recommendation to build a new station at Altona North,” they said.

The cost of the Clyde Railway extension, which also includes a new station in Dandenong South, is estimated to be around $2 billion to $3 billion, while the cost for the two new stations in the north is about $100 million to $250 million for each.

The spokesperson pointed out that IV included a “recommendation” that the Victorian Government “complete detailed assessments to extend and electrify metropolitan trains to the north and south east growth areas” within the next five years.

IV is also recommending improved bus services in growth areas, including new routes where none currently exist and more frequent and longer operating hours.

These improvements, they said, would “allow more people to travel by public transport… including places beyond the catchment of the proposed Clyde rail extension”.

Mr Tassone said CRRA acknowledged Casey’s strong advocacy, but the results underscored the need for “stronger, louder and more persistent” campaigning, especially with the 2026 State Election approaching.

“Casey is the largest growth municipality in the state… Our community needs Council, local MPs and community groups working together with one clear, united voice to elevate the Clyde rail extension from a “maybe” to a committed project,” he said.

CRRA recently wrote to all three local State MPs calling for a clear pre-election commitment, including funding, planning and delivery of the Clyde Railway extension.

“This is not about politics. It is about fairness, equity, and the basic ability for families in Casey to access jobs, education and essential services without battling gridlock every day,” Mr Tassone said.

Last week, Casey’s back-to-back Mayor Cr Koomen told Star News that transport infrastructure, including the Clyde extension, would be among the biggest issues on the council’s election-year wishlist.

Casey Council has advised that, separate from their advocacy to IV, they have “consistently” campaigned for the Clyde Rail Link to the State and Federal Governments and to the local parliamentarians.

“We’ve received strong support from advocacy groups, organisations, and the State Government for extending and duplicating the rail line to Clyde, and we remain committed to advocating at all levels of government to ensure we get the public transport, roads and infrastructure we need and deserve,” Mayor Cr Koomen said.

According to the judgment, the $1 million penalty will be paid into the EPA’s Restorative Project Account, a fund used to deliver restorative projects that benefit the community surrounding the Hallam Road landfill. So what is the EPA’s Restorative Project Account, and how does it work?

Star News has contacted the EPA for clarification. Here’s an explainer.

According to the EPA, when an offence occurs under the Environment Protection Act 2017, the Court has the option to require the offender to fund a restorative project instead of imposing a conventional fine.

How Restorative Projects Are Ordered

The Court can:

• Nominate a specific project, or

• Set an amount of money to be paid into the EPA-administered restorative projects fund.

Every project must restore or enhance the environment or deliver a public benefit.

The Restorative Project Register

To identify suitable projects, EPA has created a Restorative Project Register—a list of eligible organisations with the capacity to deliver environmental restoration initiatives. These organisations may:

• Be considered for funding, or

• Be recommended to the Court in future cases.

Assessment and Eligibility

Projects seeking funding undergo a detailed EPA assessment to ensure they meet legislative requirements and provide significant and demonstrable benefit to the environment and community.

Organisations can apply to join the register by emailing restorative@epa.vic.gov. au for a registration form. Eligible organisations must be legally incorporated and have a cultural, educational, environmental, or environment-related role. Examples include:

• Community organisations

• Not-for-profit or non-government organisations

• Traditional Owners

• Schools and universities

• Research groups

• Local government

• Catchment management authorities

Recent Examples

• In 2024, an EPA civil enforcement action resulted in SBI Landfill Pty Ltd paying $200,000 for “a project for the restoration or enhancement of the environment in a public place or for the public benefit.” A shortlist of projects is currently under consideration.

• A recent Supreme Court decision in a civil enforcement action against Veolia resulted in an order for $1 million to be paid into the restorative account for a project to be determined by the EPA.

Mould concern in rental

By Jensy Callimootoo

A Casey mother, who prefers to not be named, says she and her three children have all experienced ongoing allergic reactions to prolonged mould exposure in their rental.

It’s a grim and hazardous reality for many tenants in Melbourne.

A 2025 Airtasker report revealed that Melbourne was ranked fourth as the mouldiest capital city in Australia — with the South-East being the second on the list of mouldiest regions in Melbourne.

Melbourne’s wet winters and frequent rainfall creates the perfect conditions for mould growth – as do the wet and damp conditions of spring.

Not for profit organisation, Tenants Victoria, helps renters understand their rights and flags the existence of mould as an urgent repair.

“Fixing mould caused by building structure is legally an urgent repair that landlords must address immediately,” said Jennifer Beveridge, CEO of Tenants Victoria.

“We provide information about minimum standards for ventilation, how to document the problem and how the dispute process works.”

“If renters keep the property reasonably clean and use the exhaust fans appropriately, then the landlord is generally responsible for fixing any mould problems.”

Typically mould that is found in indoor and outdoor spaces poses no danger to humans, but it can become problematic when it begins to grow in unwanted places such as bedrooms and bathrooms; this is dubbed as — microbial pollution.

For the Casey family, the youngest son has a history of respiratory problems like asthma, now with the mould, she says the issue has been exacerbated.

“My son’s got severe asthma, and he’s been to the doctor so many times,” she said.

The Casey family moved in 12 months ago and had no prior knowledge of the severity but the mother says that she’s always been cautious of mould during inspections.

“I’m usually really careful, but because it was inside the walls, and because of the dodgy repairs, I didn’t notice,” said the mum.

Despite the house being a new building, she says it was never properly waterproofed correctly in the bathroom and has only had “bandaid repairs” since.

Casey says no to violence

By Jensy Callimootoo

Starting November 25, the City of Casey is taking part in a 16-day initiative, a global wide campaign against gender-based violence.

The goal is to raise awareness and incite action in not only preventing violence against women and girls but also ending it.

The campaign is backed by over 6000 organisations world wide, working towards promoting safety, respect and equality.

Casey has launched its own video underscoring this crucial campaign and championing an end to abuse and violence.

The new initiative has been dubbed as ‘Casey says NO to violence’.

The video featured Victoria Police and Casey councillors including Casey’s Mayor, Stefan Koomen.

“Every person in our community deserves to feel safe, respected, and valued and I’m proud to be part of this important campaign,” said the

Mayor in a media release.

“The City of Casey stands united in saying NO to violence and these 16 days are a powerful reminder that change is possible when we stand together.”

Most recently in Casey, the Crime Statistics Agency reported a significant increase in reported family violence cases, with a spike of 13.6 per cent from the previous year — the large majority impacted by the violence being women and girls.

Until 10 December, throughout this campaign, the Casey council will work to provide resources and support services, ensuring that victims of domestic and family violence are aware of the ongoing help available to them.

Formoreinformationandresourcesgotocasey.vic.gov.au/family-violence-help

If you or someone you know is impacted by family violence, you can visit 1800 RESPECT or call 1800 737 732 (24 hours), the national counselling service for specialist support and advice.

was full of mould, they’ve just done the bare minimum and it’s still not up to standard,” she said.

“So basically, it’s still got heaps of mould that wasn’t fixed.

“And I can’t use my cupboards, and it’s still making us all really, really sick”.

As well as attempts of waterproofing, mould fogging was also completed which did little to eliminate the mould, or stop it from spreading.

The Casey single mother says she is unable to find a new rental for her family to move to, despite her best efforts.

But in the meantime, she’s gone out and purchased her own air purifiers to mitigate their allergies; which she says shouldn’t be her responsibility.

“I shouldn’t really have to purchase all this stuff,” she said.

“Theyshouldhavejustfixedit,andtheyshould have given us alternative accommodation.”

She’s also working with different organisations including a housing union to ensure her family is protected.

Consumer Affairs Victoria acknowledges the risks of prolonged exposure to mould, urging those who suspect they may have mould in their home to contact their landlord immediately.

But much like the Casey family’s case, despite state laws outlining the possible impact of mould exposure and the urgency to remove it, many tenants are struggling to get their landlords to fix the underlying issues that cause the mould.

Who is required to address the issue is dependent on what caused the mould, according to Tenants Victoria.

“It’s only been patched up and painted,” she said.

“But the cause of the leak wasn’t ever fixed.”

It was only after the single mother pushed for further repairs that they made some changes to the showers, but this was still not sufficient in alleviating the issue.

“When they did fix one of the showers, which

For example, a tenant may be responsible if their actions “contributed to the problem” through lack of ventilation after using the bathroom.

However, a landlord may be responsible if the issue was a consequence of inadequate infrastructure such as a broken or faulty window that has let rain in.

Or, according to the Casey family in this case, a lack of substantial waterproofing in the showers.

We’re planning for an upgrade to the western side of the Thompson Road and Mornington Peninsula Freeway interchange, in Patterson Lakes. The upgrade aims to improve safety and traffic flow.

Have your say

We want to hear your views on safety, traffic flow and what we should consider when planning the construction approach. You can have your say in person or online.

In person

Saturday 22 November, 10am to 12pm and 1pm to 3pm Patterson Lakes Community Centre, 54/70 Thompson Rd, Patterson Lakes

Have your say online by 30 November Scan the QR code or visit engage.vic.gov.au/trmpf

Ambulance times slipping

By Violet Li

Casey residents waited longer for ambulances this winter, as new figures show response times worsening across thousands of life-threatening callouts during the state’s busiest first quarter on record.

According to Ambulance Victoria (AV)’s latest performance data for Q1 2025–26 (July–September 2025), paramedics responded to 61.7 per cent of life-threatening Code 1 emergencies within 15 minutes in Casey, down from 63.4 per cent in the same period last year.

Ambulance Victoria’s statewide target is to reach 85 per cent of Code 1 emergencies within 15 minutes.

Average response times in Casey also slipped, rising from 15 minutes and 16 seconds a year ago to 15 minutes and 57 seconds this quarter.

The previous quarter’s figure was 15 minutes and 37 seconds.

Casey recorded 5,441 Code 1 emergencies in the latest quarter, up 4 per cent from 5,234 in Q1 last year and up 9 per cent from 4,983 in Q4, making it Victoria’s busiest ambulance region.

Casey was the busiest in the state, making up 5.35 per cent of the total workload.

AV Executive Director Regional Operations Michael Georgiou said the July–September period was the busiest first quarter ever recorded, with 101,632 Code 1 cases across the state in just three months.

He said demand for ‘lights and sirens’ ambulances across Victoria increased by 2.8 per cent compared with the previous quarter.

“Winter consistently brings the highest emergency call volumes, and this year was no exception,” he said.

“This was another challenging winter – the entire health system was extremely busy with seasonal illness. We are incredibly proud of our highly skilled paramedics and first responders for the exceptional care they provide their communities – all day, every day.

“Despite this record demand, we continue to

lead the way in pre-hospital patient care, including the best cardiac arrest survival rates in Australia and the third best anywhere in the world.”

Code 2 cases, urgent but not life-threatening, also took longer to reach in Casey.

Average response time for Code 2 callouts increased to 44 minutes and 31 seconds, compared with 41 minutes and 15 seconds a year earlier and 41 minutes and 34 seconds in the previous quarter.

Communication below par: From the editor

A media release lobbed over the editor’s desk this week from the City of Casey, patting itself on the back for consulting the community on a range of projects and initiatives this year.

It pointed out that more than 4500 residents had shared their insights and expectations during 66 community engagements in 2025.

That’s commendable and a credit to the community engagement team but, sadly, our experience in keeping readers informed about matters of public interest in Casey hasn’t been as good of late.

We’ve had reporters covering the local government scene in this neck of the woods for well over a century and consider that work a vital part of the democratic process.

But we can’t help but feel we’re being stonewalled by the Casey communications team.

Early last week we had two reporters attend the special meeting to elect the mayor and deputy, as we have done for years.

No photography was allowed at the meeting and afterwards we sought out re-elected mayor Stefan Kooman and his new deputy Michelle Crowther for a chat and photo opportunity.

All pretty standard stuff; only this time they were off limits. The mayor was whisked away for official photos and an after-party, while the deputy was too busy for a chat and she would instead provide a statement. That arrived the next day and consisted of little more than a quote on what an “honour and privilege” it was to be elected to the role. Not much for the ratepayers to take away from that, I’d suggest.

The mayor did get in touch the next morning and let us know he’s contactable anytime.

By contrast, Cardinia held its mayoral election this Monday night and new mayor Brett Owen, elected for an unprecedented fourth term, and his new deputy Liz Roberts were more than happy to be interviewed and photographed afterwards. They may not have rolled out a red carpet for the attending press, but did roll out a special ’press gallery’ table and allowed the proceedings to be video recorded.

A tale of two cities, really.

Later in the week, we were alerted to a “community information session” at Bunjil Place over plans to develop the old Cranbourne Golf Club site into housing.

We registered our interest in attending (as

everyone needs to do these days, even for regular Casey Council meetings) and were a bit taken aback when our request was refused.

We were told the session was restricted to council, the developer and the 50-odd objectors.

So how, we asked, do those in the community, outside those objectors, keep abreast of developments in this fairly significant development? A carefully-worded media release afterwards perhaps?

Our exclusion seems to suggest that council prefers a more controlled environment where the message can be massaged to fit the preferred narrative.

No pesky reporters taking the proceedings off message.

I would suggest allowing outside scrutiny from an independent and trusted media makes it less of an exercise in box-ticking and a more genuine community consultation, especially in the wake of the Operation Sandon controversy.

In our humble opinion, that is. We’ve only been doing it for more than a century.

- Garry Howe

Build belonging early - world can’t take it away

By Dr Jamel Kaur Singh

Recently, I witnessed something Australia has lost - and urgently needs back.

I was in Kuala Lumpur, sitting quietly in the corner of my father’s VI (Victoria Institution) school reunion. Class of 1963-1969.

My dad - the only Sikh man here in a turbanis being greeted with such genuine respect. They remember him as a school prefect. Captain in hockey, soccer, athletics. A leader even as a teenager.

The look in their eyes when they see himpride, belonging, connection - is almost sacred. And then something happened that cut me straight to the core.

They all stood up… and sang the school song. Every word.

Sixty years later.

Still in their hearts.

This is what school should be.

Not curriculum documents and rubrics. But identity.

Belonging.

Respect.

Pride in who we are and who we walked be-

side.

Malaysia is deeply multicultural - Malay, Chinese, Indian, Sikh, all faiths - yet they have never lost a sense of cultural cohesion.

They have differences - but there is a baseline of shared identity that creates unity.

This is why a reunion 60 years later is not merely a dinner - it is reverence. And I’m realising - painfully -how much this is missing in Australia.

We no longer build school spirit.

We have no real traditions.

We have no intentional pride-building rituals.

Ask most Australian students today to sing

The total number of first responses for Code 2 remained largely steady, recording 2,180 cases in the latest quarter.

Statewide, during the July to September quarter, AV crews responded to 64.1 per cent of Code 1 cases within the state-wide target of 15 minutes.

The state-wide average response time to Code 1 emergencies was 15 minutes and 46 seconds. In the Metropolitan Region, crews responded to 71,140 Code 1 cases between July and September 2025, which is 1.69 per cent more than a year ago (69,959) and 2.7 per cent more than three months ago (69,275).

Metropolitan Regional Director Jessica McGowan urged residents to use alternative care pathways when appropriate, warning that unnecessary Triple Zero (000) calls divert ambulances from the sickest patients.

“Our paramedics are focused on reaching the sickest patients first — but every day, about one in five calls to Triple Zero (000) do not need an emergency ambulance response,” Ms McGowan said.

“Getting the right care fast can make all the difference and means more paramedics are on the road for people who need our urgent lifesaving care the most.

“There are many options people can access when they need timely medical care and health advice, at any time of the night or day – but not an emergency ambulance or calling Triple Zero (000), including the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department (VVED), Urgent Care Clinics, Nurse-on-Call, GPs and pharmacists.”

Back to work and with son in hand

Holt MP Cassandra Fernando was back in Federal Parliament with her young son in tow last week.

their school song - if one even exists - many don’t even know there is one.

We need to bring back:

• school songs

• school values lived, not laminated

• house rivalries that build belonging

• respect for teachers and principals

• alumni who return not just to reunite - but to honour

This is how we build connection and national pride.

This is how we embed Cultural Intelligence from childhood.

This is how we produce adults who stand tall - grounded in who they are.

Watching these elderly men embrace my father with such love and honour, I am reminded that when you build belonging early, the world never takes it away.

Australia - we need to start again.

From schools.

From identity.

From pride.

Maybe the thing we all want - unity - is not as complicated as we’ve made it.

It might simply begin with… a school song.

In a break from debate, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese gave a shout out to Fernando, who held her five-month-old son Ilija on the chamber floor.

“This is exactly what modern Australia looks like,” Ms Fernando said, who returned to her first week back from maternity leave.

“Every day, thousands of women in my community juggle work, family, and everything in between.

“Parliament is finally starting to reflect real life, and I am grateful to be able to do the same while making sure their voices are heard at the Federal level.”

She noted the Government’s support for “working families” such as extending paid parental leave to 26 weeks and moves to make childcare more affordable.

Fernando welcomed Parliament’s “growing family-friendly cohort” including Senator Corine Mulholland, who delivered her maiden speech in July with baby in her arms.

Life-saving stroke care

A Cockatoo father is back home and recovering well after Victoria’s second Mobile Stroke Unit (MSU), operating out of Dandenong, delivered life-saving stroke care on the roadside.

Shane Allan, 50, collapsed at his home earlier this year.

His wife Michelle immediately suspected a stroke after recognising the symptoms.

“Every Sunday night, I watch Inside the Ambulance and all those medical shows. I looked at Shane and I knew what was happening straight away, so I rang an ambulance,” Michelle recalled.

Unbeknownst to the couple, Australia’s second MSU had begun operating out of Dandenong only three months earlier and was dispatched to meet Shane’s ambulance en route to the hospital.

A hospital-grade CT scanner onboard the unit allowed specialists to diagnose an ischemic stroke within minutes, confirming a blockage in one of Shane’s arteries.

The team administered clot-busting medication immediately, before transferring Shane to Monash Medical Centre in Clayton for emergency clot-retrieval surgery.

“Not every hospital can do this procedure. You’re potentially preventing hours of delays if you can get a patient to a stroke service straight away,” Professor Henry Ma, director of Neurology at Monash Health, said.

“Every minute you lose about two million brain cells. So, every minute you save helps a patient.”

Doctors at Monash Medical Centre were notified of Shane’s diagnosis before his arrival, allowing surgical teams to prepare in advance.

“The result of his care was very good,” Monash Health neurologist Dr Michael Valente said.

“Being able to restore blood flow quickly means Shane’s now back to independent function and home again.”

Shane has since returned to work, with only minor weakness remaining in his left side.

Operating Monday to Friday from 8am to 6pm, the Dandenong-based MSU services a 20-kilometre radius. At times, it can rendezvous outside

that catchment area.

It is dispatched by Ambulance Victoria to patients with suspected stroke.

Monash Medical Centre is the primary receiving hospital, serving as a major stroke-retrieval hub for the south east and across Victoria.

“We are thrilled to have Australia’s second Mobile Stroke Unit operating in our catchment,” Professor Ma said.

“We believe it will improve functional outcomes for stroke patients in our community.

“We are already seeing excellent patient outcomes.

“With the MSU, we are getting a lot more in-

formation about patients before they arrive at the hospital. So, our team can be ready for patients when they arrive, and some are even able to go directly to our angio suite to have the clot removed.”

OutsidehisworkatMonashHealth,DrValente also serves as a virtual neurologist for the MSU, linking in from the Royal Melbourne Hospital.

“It’s extremely satisfying and humbling to be able to help the patient from their house.

You’re shifting the dynamics of their care dramatically,’ he said.

“Sometimes you can see the effect of the drugs that you’re giving straight away, you can see the stroke resolving before your eyes. It’s incredibly

rewarding to see.”

A former stroke clinical nurse consultant at Monash Health, Jodie Rabaut, said reaching patients within the crucial “golden hour” could dramatically change outcomes.

She is now a stroke nurse practitioner on the MSU, enjoying applying the same skills she uses in the hospital setting, but in a very different environment.

“Being out in the elements, rain, hail or shine and providing imaging and treatment on the street is a rawer experience,” she said.

“In the hospital environment, the patient arrives with paramedics on a stretcher with all the required information. With the MSU, you are entering people’s homes, where they may be stuck between furniture, and you are sourcing as much information as you can, all the while trying to comfort family members during such a confronting time.

“Working with such a tight-knit team on the MSU, including paramedics, radiographers and doctors, knowing that you are helping people in the community, is definitely satisfying and rewarding.”

The MSU program is a collaboration between Ambulance Victoria, the Royal Melbourne Hospital, Monash Health, the Stroke Foundation, the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, the RMH Neuroscience Foundation, the State Government and the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC).

At Summerset Cranbourne North, our assisted living apartments offer the perfect balance of independence and support – ideal for those who value their autonomy but appreciate a helping hand with daily tasks.

With independent living, supported living and residential aged care located within the same village, Summerset’s unique continuum of care offering enables aging in place with care and support that can adjust with the resident’s needs.^

These apartments also come with exclusive access to a private lounge and dining space reserved for assisted living residents, as well as the full range of resort-style communal facilities including a bar, café, swimming pool, recreational bowling green, and more.*

Think this sounds like you or someone you love? We’re here to help, contact us to book an appointment today.

Love the life you choose.

Visit our sales suite

Monday to Saturday, 9am to 5pm

Summerset Cranbourne North 98 Mannavue Boulevard, Cranbourne North 03 7068 5642 | cranbourne.sales@summerset.com.au

BUSINESS IN FOCUS

One and free

‘Australians all let us rejoice, for we are one and free’. These are the first few words of our National Anthem, binding us together and reminding us that despite our different backgrounds, beliefs, and faiths, we are one people living in a free nation.

Yet, with the Statewide Treaty in force, Victoria risks becoming divided.

Treaties are primarily instruments of foreign affairs, governing relations between sovereign nations, rather than within them. By enshrining a treaty between groups of Victorians, we have legislated the idea that we are separate peoples with different political rights.

Indigenous Australians have endured profound loss, injustice, and dispossession. They deserve respect, their history deserves recognition, and the gap they face must be closed. But the idea that progress could be achieved through the newly created Aboriginal Representative Body, Gellung Warl is misguided.

Indigenous communities are extraordinarily diverse with many political opinions, communities, cultures, language groups and dialects. Gellung Warl could never credibly claim to speak for all of them. Its very name was objected to by some Kurnai elders who did not want their language being used for a political body.

Gellung Warl has the form of a shadow government with vast resources at its disposal and minimal ministerial oversight. It will hold significant influence: shaping legislation, questioning ministers and public servants, holding costly inquiries, wielding and spending vast sums of taxpayer money, and much more. These are substantial powers, exercised without the same level of accountability expected of other public institutions.

If the Voice to Parliament referendum was a sign of the public’s mood, I am confident that this treaty would have been rejected by Victorians - if it were properly explained and put to a referendum. I am resolutely committed to closing the gap

Hermans State Member for South Eastern Metropolitan Region.

by continuing to pursue practical measures that improve health, education, housing, and economic outcomes for Indigenous Victorians.

I remain committed to a unified Victoria, where reconciliation is built upon shared opportunity and respectful dialogue with all Victorians, rather than through government-initiated, institutional division.

Authorised by Ann-Marie Hermans State Member for South Eastern Metropolitan Region Suite 1 / 31 Princes Highway Dandenong VIC 3175

Cranbourne, Hastings SES team up for train rescue drill

By Violet Li

Cranbourne SES volunteers joined Hastings SES for an emergency training exercise on the heritage rail line at Moorooduc.

On Monday 17 November, the training brought together more than 60 people, including up to 30 Hastings SES members, four from Cranbourne SES, and more than 20 volunteers from Mornington Tourist Railway.

Hastings SES section leader Silvana Hobley said the joint exercise simulated a sudden emergency stop on the historic train, requiring a full passenger evacuation.

“The whole idea was for us to be in a position where we would simulate a training session. If a real-life emergency did happen, we would be prepared for it, and that’s basically what the training was all about,” she said.

“We’re always following our standard operating procedures. There are emergency strategies in place all the time, and that’s why we get continuous training.

“In this instance, the simulation was that the train had to stop in an emergency. It didn’t crash or anything, but it actually had to stop suddenly, and we had to evacuate passengers off the train.”

Ms Hobley noted that a lot of the carriages of the train varied from 80 years old to 120 years old, and they were maintained in a beautiful condition.

The members took away a lot from the training, and they were hoping to have it again next year, Ms Hobley said.

Mornington Tourist Railway said on its Facebook page that it was “proud to support their local volunteer emergency services” by providing its heritage carriages and operational insight for the drill.

Join us for a day of fun and celebration at Halcyon Jardin’s Open Day. Explore the brand-new $13 million Clubhouse, experience resort-style living for over 55s, and enjoy entertainment and activities for all ages.

Expect a live DJ, yoga, kids’ art, pickleball, lawn bowls, face painting, and more – plus complimentary food, drinks, and ice cream.

Stockland Halcyon JardinSaturday 29th November, 10.30am–1.30pm 215S St Germain Blvd, Clyde North

Zero exit fees, DMF, or stamp duty at Halcyon Jardin

12 Days of Christmas at Dandenong Market

Free festive fun for families – crafts, music, Santa photos and more!

This December, Dandenong Market is bringing the magic of Christmas to life with 12 Days of Christmas. Running on Market days from Tuesday 2 December to Sunday 21 December the Market will come alive with festive cheer, creative workshops, and joyful entertainment for kids of all ages. Whether you’re a local or visiting from across Melbourne, this is your chance to make unforgettable holiday memories – all for free. In partnership with the Dandenong Community and Learning Centre, our 12 Days of Christmas program is packed with hands-on fun.

Activites include:

· Christmas crafts and card making

· Cookie decorating

· Face painting and hair braiding

· Music circles and sing-alongs

· Online DIY tutorials for at-home fun

· Also, every Tuesday and Friday enjoy:

· Christmas Card Making Station

· Santa’s Colouring Station

Plus, don’t miss your chance to meet Santa himself and post your letter straight to the North Pole!

This is the perfect opportunity to enjoy familyfriendly Christmas events in Melbourne without breaking the bank. With something new each

Market day, there’s always a reason to come back and experience the festive spirit again and again.

Event Details

· What: 12 Days of Christmas (View the full schedule here)

· Where: Dandenong Market – Corner Clow and Cleeland Streets, Dandenong

· When: Every Market day from Tuesday 2 December to Sunday 21 December

· Time: 10am – 2pm (unless otherwise stated)

· Cost: Free

· Plan your visit now

· Follow us on social media for updates

About Dandenong Market:

Dandenong Market is Melbourne’s iconic multicultural hub, offering a vibrant mix of food, culture, and entertainment. With over 200 traders, the market is renowned for its diverse range of fresh produce, street food, unique shopping experiences, and lively events that celebrate Melbourne’s rich cultural tapestry.

Dandenong Market is a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.

12

Christmas Cheer

Racing fever finds a new home

Motorsport has long held a special place in the hearts of many Australian families - but for young people and curious beginners in the City of Casey, opportunities to explore it safely and meaningfully have often been limited. A new venue in Dandenong, Motorsport Simworld, is changing that in a significant way.

Inside what appears to be a modest industrial unit is a row of professional-grade racing simulators - the same type used by real-world drivers to train for GT3, F1 and endurance races. But this isn’t just a high-tech playground. For many local parents, it has become a surprising bridge between entertainment and genuine skill-building.

Staff say they are seeing a growing number of teenagers who may have outgrown traditional

gaming but aren’t yet ready - or old enoughfor karting or track days. The simulators offer a chance to practise racecraft, concentration and competition in a fully controlled setting. Some families treat it as an alternative to passive screen time; others see it as a safe first step into a sport that can otherwise be expensive and risky.

Adults are turning up as well - especially longtime motorsport fans who have never had the opportunity to get behind the wheel themselves.

Several regulars describe the experience as “eyeopening”, offering an intuitive grasp of racing lines, braking zones and strategy without the pressure of a real track.

While many first encounter Simworld through casual drop-in sessions, the venue has evolved

into much more. It has become a local hub for corporate events, team-building days, school excursions and social gatherings - even hosting fully managed functions for up to forty guests. Businesses are using the simulators for leadership workshops and driver-training-style activities, while parents are booking the space for birthdays that feel closer to race-day events than traditional parties. Sessions can be tailored for total beginners or configured as competitive formats for groups wanting something more intense. With catering options, dedicated hosts and structured racing programs, Simworld is steadily embedding itself into the region’s corporate and community calendars.

With school holidays approaching, the venue is preparing for increased demand. Simworld has

confirmed it will introduce extended opening hours from early January 2025, giving teens, families and groups more opportunities to visit during the day - a shift welcomed by parents seeking engaging and active holiday activities.

As motorsport continues to surge in popularity among younger audiences - fuelled by digital platforms, social media and the rise of Formula 1 - spaces like this may influence how the next generation connects with the sport. And for families in the City of Casey, it offers something rare: a place where enthusiasm meets learning, and where both teens and adults can explore racing in a way that is safe, social and genuinely enriching.

Fashions and frolics at Cup

Dressed-up fashionistas, rock fans and racegoers flocked to the $500,000 Cranbourne Cup on Saturday.

Huge crowds basked in the trackside sunshine, on terraces and in marquees as co-trainers

Mick Price and Michael Kent Jnr’s four-year-old gelding Sabaj rode to a commanding win in their home cup.

Aside from the racing thrills, visitors revelled in the party atmosphere.

Fashions on the Field attracted an array of contestants in bright attire and spectacular millinery.

As a special attraction, The Voices Supergroup featuring Aussie Rock legends Mark Gable from The Choirboys, Dave Gleeson from the Screaming Jets, and Tania Doko from The Bachelor Girl put on a show to remember.

BUSINESS IN FOCUS

An action-packed evening that lives up to the theme

Sandown Park is gearing up to host an unforgettable Melbourne Cup 2025, proudly themed

“Simply the Best.” The iconic greyhound racing event will bring together elite competition, vibrant entertainment, and premium hospitality in a celebration of sporting excellence and community spirit.

This year’s Cup is set to be the biggest yet, with all dining packages sold out and a full evening of live entertainment planned.

The outdoor precinct free and open to the public, will come alive with Rewind 80s performing in Box 9, while Ruva, star of the Tina Turner Musical, will deliver a show-stopping

performance inside the venue and out.

Adding to the excitement, the popular Million Dollar Wheel returns, giving patrons the chance to spin and win.

Sandown Park is welcoming everyone—racing enthusiasts, families, and visitors of all ages—with free entry ensuring the event remains accessible to the whole community.

Guests can look forward to a bustling atmosphere filled with great music, food trucks, and world-class racing.

Gates open from 5.30 pm to 11.00 pm, promising an action-packed evening that truly lives up to the theme: Simply the Best. Greyhound Racing’s premier stage.

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITY

Creating opportunities

The Bridge Inc is a not-for-profit organisation that offers various community and employment services to people with disabilities. Our flexible, client-centred model allows individuals to choose supports that align with their goals, creating personalised pathways to independence and fulfilment.  Our services are divided into two core areas: The Bridge Connects and The Bridge Employment. We believe in empowering each person to create their own unique pathway, combining supports from both areas to meet their own needs and aspirations.

Choose from:

The Bridge Connects Community Services Day Services

Aimed at providing health and wellbeing, learning life skills and participating socially with

friends whilst out in the community.

Recreation

Our Getaways program provides recreational leisure activities, as well as trips away in Victoria and interstate. Support that travels with you.   1:1 Individual Support

Our Your Supports program provides 1:1 support in home and the community.

Accommodation

Supervision and/or assistance with everyday tasks, seven days a week, in one of our shared accommodation Supported Independent Living homes.

Support Coordination

NDIS plan assistance to help you understand and use your plan to achieve your goals and

Tailored care for you

Grow 2 Be is a disability support day service making a difference. Participants at the Pakenhambased service are offered a range of hands-on activities like art lessons, woodwork classes, and outings into the community on any given day. They also have an opportunity to volunteer at a bunny refuge, a native-wildlife shelter and equine therapy, and are offered courses including a Certificate II in Animal Care, CPR, first aid, and everyday life skills courses.

“We offer days out, where we encourage our participants to choose and research places they want to go,” director Heidi Faber said.

“We are different in that we cater every part of our program to what our participants want to do, and what their specific interests are.

“They are in control of what happens, and we are teaching them life skills in the process.”

Among the highlights of Grow 2 Be’s achievements are some participants gaining employment through organised work placements.

“We love seeing our participants having the opportunity to live their best lives and achieve their goals,” Heidi says.

“We want to support them to have fun while learning and enriching their lives.

“Seeing our participants so excited and thriving drives us to continue our work. The smiles on their faces and the positive feedback from participants and their parents demonstrate how important our work is.”The main goal for Grow 2 Be is to set up participants for a “bright and independent future”.

“This speaks to the heart of everything we do.” Grow 2 Be is open 9am-3pm at 50 Lakeside Blvd, Pakenham. Contact: heidi@grow2be.com.au

manage services.

The Bridge Employment Services  Job Skills Training (NDIS)

Our Your Job Now program provides job skills training. This includes work experience, 1:1 weekly coaching sessions and group activities to help you find and keep a job.   Supported Employment

All abilities employment opportunities at our warehouses and microbusinesses.

Matching your skills with positions available

at The Bridge Employment.   Open Employment

Through the Inclusive Employment Australia program, we can help build your skills and find a job that suits your interests.  The Bridge Inc is your local NDIS provider. We operate in multiple locations in the Southeast and Northern suburbs of Melbourne. Not sure which is the right service for you? No problem! Our friendly team are here to get you started. Call us on 1800 274 343 or email enquiries@thebridgeinc.org.au to start your journey today.

Grow 2 Be is an organisation providing support to young people with disabilities to become empowered to achieve their goals. We will tailor-make a variety of programs (group and individual), focusing on capacity building, that takes into consideration each participant’s NDIS goals, interests and emerging skills. We equip our participants with the skills required to gain the confidence to live an independent and fulfilled life.

heidi@grow2be.com.au 0407 544 755

www.grow2be.com.au

Bank cuts carer’s lifeline

By Afraa Kori

A Cranbourne mother and full-time carer says she was left “financially stranded” after Bendigo and Adelaide Bank suddenly closed her account without warning or reason.

Former Berwick resident Katie Baddack had trusted Bendigo Bank’s Berwick branch with her family’s finances for more than 14 years.

On 3 November, she logged into her banking app to find her account gone, later learning that the branch had closed it without notice. “I had no account confirmation that my account would be closed and still no letter or correspondence,” Ms Baddack said.

“They could not find anything on their system that there was a letter, call, SMS noting that the account was going to be closed.”

The closure came just before a public holiday.

As a full time carer, she had no access to government payments for her partner, a returned soldier (medically discharged from the military), and their four young children, two of whom are neurodivergent and require daily medication.

She was left disadvantaged and inconveniently unable to cover essential daily expenses for her family.

Ms Baddack was also unable to deposit her income that week because she did not have the required 100-point identification to open a new bank account.

“It was distressing, emotionally and mentally disheartening,” she said.

“The closure of my bank account without any form of notice, especially a day before a public holiday, has left our family in complete limbo financially.”

Prior to this, Ms Baddack had spent over nine months begging the Berwick branch to cancel a direct debit she never authorised, which repeatedly pushed her account into overdraft.

Each week, a $10 fee was charged and later reversed when her government payments arrived.

Unable to get answers from the branch, she lodged a complaint with the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA).

AFCA found that the Bendigo Bank at Berwick Branch Victoria closed the account due to an overdrawn balance of $10 which the bank takes out when the government payments come into the account.

“It seemed like due diligence and check on incurring and regular deposits from the bank were not considered before closing the account,” the formal complaint stated.

“In addition, the Bendigo Bank account pays for the complainant’s loan of $300 weekly which will not be impacted which will affect her loan re-

payments and credit history/score.

“The bank has been taking the $10 fee out every time the deposits from the government come into the complainant’s account.”

Ms Baddack is expecting those payments to go in there on the due date but now, she will be impacted financially due banking process.

After AFCA’s involvement and raising the issue with Gazette, she ‘strangely’ received an email on 7 November confirming that Bendigo Bank had processed a $1,000 goodwill compensation and would open a concession account.

“I’m still not happy with the outcome they have offered as $1000 doesn’t cover the emotional toll it’s had on our family, doesn’t even cover

what I lost from the week that they closed my account,” Ms Baddack said.

“If this happens to anyone else, I hope the banks do their due diligence before closing a vulnerable person’s account.”

However, the compensation has not yet been received, and no update has been provided on the new account.

Despite the difficulties, the family managed to get by this week with support from Frankston’s RSL Veteran Welfare Centre, where her partner Rick Cachia is involved with the sub-branch.

Natalie Cameron, Lead Ombudsman Banking and Finance said many Australians struggling particularly with the cost of living, often receive no response when seeking help from their financial firm.

“This can leave individuals feeling unheard, unsupported, and even more vulnerable during what is already a stressful time,” she said.

“While our complaint data shows a 17 per cent drop from the previous year, there is a concerning, continued trend:failure to respond to requests for assistance.

“This was themost common financial difficulty complaint we received, with2,890 cases, which is almost unchanged from last year’s 2,838. While this category of complaint includes a complaint about “an inadequate response”, in many cases there was simply no response at all.”

Ms Cameron added that Victorian Ombudsman is “calling on financial firms to strengthen their hardship assistance practices to ensure early identificationof financial stress and extra care needs, to train staff to positively frameassistance options, such as paused enforcement and avoiding adverse credit reporting, and to reduce barriers to access, such as excessive verification requirements.”

A spokesperson of the Bank said “Bendigo Bank is committed to protecting the privacy of its customers and does not comment on specific matters”.

Cranbourne Chamber of Commerce marks successful year

By Violet Li

Cranbourne Chamber of Commerce has marked what it calls its “most successful year ever”, celebrating record attendance and a strengthened events program at its 2025 Annual General Meeting.

Current president Ian Wood was re-elected at the AGM.

Mr Wood acknowledged the previous committee, thanking them for their contributions through a year of rebuilding and growth.

The Chamber now has 70 registered members, with Mr Wood emphasising a vision of “building strong foundations for growth and success”.

Over the past year, the Chamber delivered a series of networking events in partnership with local businesses, opening doors for both members and non-members to connect. Guest speakers proved a major drawcard, with Mr Wood highlighting the four-week Start Smart, Run Smart program, which attracted almost 200 attendees thanks to support from Bendigo Bank.

“We have had the most successful year ever for the Cranbourne Chamber of Commerce. Our

Events have been well attended, and I thank Anthony Tassone (2024-25 committee member) and Rob Ward (2024-25 committee member) for helping to organise some great speakers,” Mr Wood said.

“The challenge for 2026 is to run a program of events that can be as successful as 2025.

“Membership is the lifeblood of any association, and without you all, we simply wouldn’t exist.

“I am very passionate about local business in the City of Casey and the involvement Cranbourne Chamber of Commerce in this process.”

Looking ahead, the Chamber plans to release a full events calendar for 2026 and hopes to collaborate more closely with other local networking groups through cross-promotion and shared opportunities.

Members were encouraged to suggest ideas or host events of their own.

The 2025-26 Committee members are Ian Wood (president), Judy Davis (vice president), Kristin Lord (secretary), Anthony Hanna (treasurer), Damien Rosario, Anthony Cheeseman, Bill McMartin, and Brenda Garrard-Forster.

Compensation access fix

By Jensy Callimootoo

A ground-breaking retrospective bill to improve access to compensation in cases of institutional sexual abuse has been introduced by the Victorian Government.

It garnered the support of South Eastern Metro MP, Rachel Payne, who had introduced a similar bill that was voted down by the Government.

The new bill would reform vicarious liability laws and remove legal loopholes that inhibit reparations for victim-survivors.

Attorney General, Sonya Kilkenny introduced the bill in the Lower house on 18 November.

The reforms have been long discussed over the past year, after a controversial High Court ruling in the Bird v DP case.

In this matter, the High Court overturned the ruling of the Victorian Supreme court and found the Roman Catholic Diocese of Ballarat was not vicariously liable for the alleged abuse of a plaintiff, DP (pseudonym).

“Our message to survivors of child abuse has always been clear; we stand with you in your fight for justice – and we always will,” Kilkenny told Star News.

“We acknowledge the impact that the High Court’s decision in Bird v DP has had on many victim-survivors.

“That’s why we have introduced landmark legislation into Parliament this year to address the implications of this decision – because it is the right thing to do.”

In Bird v DP, the High Court unanimously ruled that vicarious liability cannot be imposed without a genuine employer and employee relationship.

As a result, churches cannot be held vicariously liable for abuse committed by priests - who are not considered employees but office holders or ministers of religion.

The new bill would change this by including individuals ‘akin to an employee’ if their work is central to the institution’s activities.

In May, Legalise Cannabis MP Rachel Payne

introduced a similar bill.

While it was debated then, it ultimately was not put to the vote due to the lack of support, including from the State Government.

Payne says that she is pleased to see that the legislation put forward by the government is similar to what she put forward, specifically retrospective aspects as well as the inconsistencies of what it means to be ‘akin to employment’.

“That is, it won’t exclude volunteers or certain types of organisations like sporting clubs or the scouts for example,” explained the MP.

“There was concern initially that the government may limit vicarious liability to churches or

religious institutions, but that did not eventuate thankfully.

“The government’s Bill includes the ability to set aside judgements or settlements impacted by Bird v DP that occurred between the High Court case and the Bill’s passage, which provides a huge relief to survivors that were forced to settle in the interim.”

Karen Walker, a stern advocate for survivors and victims of abuse and who worked with Payne back in May, says that the retrospective aspect of the government’s bill will allow victims and survivors to “regroup with legal teams”.

“To take the time needed to work towards ob-

taining a just outcome for being a victim of one of the most serious crimes,” she said.

“That will not only enable them to move forward with their lives but contribute to healing and improved quality of life.

“For them, and their families.”

For Walker, this bill is personal.

Walker’s brother, Ian, was a victim of institutional abuse by a volunteer coach at St Kilda Little League and says that often, child sex offenders “seek out employment that creates access to children”.

The debate on the bill is expected to take place in the following few weeks in the Upper House.

at: the Department of Transport and Planning website www.planning.vic.gov.au/public-inspection or by contacting 1800 789 386 to arrange a time to view the Amendment documentation; the City of Casey website at www.casey.vic.gov.au/current-planningscheme-amendments; and on request, during office hours, at the office of the planning authority, Bunjil Place - 2 Patrick Northeast Drive in Narre Warren, by contacting 9705 5200 to arrange a time to view the Amendment documentation.

Any person may make a submission to the planning authority about the amendment. Submissions must be made in writing giving the submitter’s name and contact address, clearly stating the grounds on which the amendment is supported or opposed and indicating what changes (if any) the submitter wishes to make.

Name and contact details of submitters are required for the planning authority to consider submissions and to notify such persons of the opportunity to attend planning authority meetings and any public hearing held to consider submissions.

The closing date for submissions is 5pm, Thursday 15 January 2026. A submission must be sent to: City of Casey, Head of Strategic Planning Growth and Contributions, PO Box 1000, Narre Warren VIC 3805; by email to: planningscheme@casey.vic.gov.au; or via the Casey Conversations website www.conversations. casey.vic.gov.au/c300case.

The planning authority must make a

WHAT’S ON

Bunjil Place Christmas Market

Up to 60 stalls with delightful stocking fillers and unique Christmas gifts. Live music, roving entertainment, food trucks, licensed bar and the lighting of the Bunjil Place Christmas tree at 8pm.

• Saturday 29 November 3pm–9pm at Bunjil Place Plaza; free entry. Stall items and food at vendor prices.

Lakeside Paddle Boats

Paddle Boats and Aqua Bikes daily. Ages 3-12 must ride with an adult (16-plus).

• Monday 1 December-31 January 10am-4pm; $30 for 15 minutes, $50 for 30 minutes (per paddleboat 1-2 capacity) at Wilson Botanic Park lake, Berwick. Bookings recommended: trybooking. com/DHFGU

Elf Scavenger Hunt

Get clues to track down elves in their secret spots, and claim a sweet reward - a lollypop. For all ages.

• Tuesday 2 December to 13 December, 10am3pm at Wilson Botanic Park visitor centre, Berwick; free event.

Lawn Games

Free family fun with giant-sized lawn games including Guess Who, Jenga, Connect 4 and Checkers.

• Tuesday, 2 December, Sunday, 7 December and Wednesday, 10 December 10am–2pm at Wilson Botanic Park, Berwick; free event.

Santa photos

Santa and his cheerful elf are stopping by the park. Bring your camera to snap your own special photos.

• Wednesday, 3 December, Saturday, 6 December and Thursday, 11 December 9.30am-11am and 12pm-1pm at Wilson Botanic Park, Berwick; free event.

Casey Carers Cuppa

Meet other carers and talk to our carer peer support team who all have lived experience. Ask us about what services and supports are available. Presented by Different Journeys, specialists in the neurodivergent space.

• Friday 5 December 10am-12pm at Old Cheese Factory, 34 Homestead Road, Berwick; free event. No bookings necessary. Details: 0490 774 068 Melbourne Pasifika Festival

Annual celebration of Pacific Island dance, live music, arts, crafts, children’s activities, storytelling,

COUNCIL MEETING DATES FOR 2026

City of Casey hereby gives public notice of the approved schedule of notice of schedule of Council meeting dates for 2026 as Council for 2026 as per resolution of Council on the 18 of Council on the 18 November 2025.

Month Council Meeting Function Centre, Bunjil Place and live streamed via the City of Casey’s Facebook page. at 6.00pm

FebruaryTuesday 17 February 2026

MarchTuesday 17 March 2026

AprilTuesday 21 April 2026

MayTuesday 26 May

JuneTuesday

JulyTuesday

AugustTuesday

SeptemberTuesday

and Pasifika-owned food and merchandise stalls.

• Saturday 6 December 10am-7pm at Banjo Paterson Park, Lynbrook; free event. Details: melbournepasifikafestival.org

Santa’s Salsa Night

Join Deon Boavida from the Salsa Society for a free, high-energy Salsa session that’s perfect for both beginners and seasoned dancers alike. No partner or experience required.

• Saturday 6 December 6pm-9pm at Wilson Botanic Park amphiteatre, Berwick; free event. Bookings essential: events.humanitix.com/santa-s-salsa-night

Christmas in the Park

Face painting, kids craft activities, water play, entertainment, Santa. BYO picnic and rugs. Humble Merchant Cafe will be open for food and refreshments.

• Sunday 7 December 11.30am-2pm at Banjo Park, Grazing Way, Clyde North; free event. Paint and Pop

Christmas creative painting activity, followed by a juice box and snack to go. Art materials provided. Suitable for primary-school ages. Bring your own smock or apron. Parent/guardian supervision required.

• Monday 8 December and Friday 12 December, 9am or 10.30am (60 min sessions) at Wilson Botanic Park, Berwick; $10pp. Bookings essential: events.humanitix.com/paint-and-pop-small-canvas-67ktevbl

Christmas High Tea

Bringing women together to reflect, connect, and end the year with encouragement and joy. Part of the E-Girl Empowerment initiative.

• Saturday, 13 December 2pm-6pm (formalities at 3pm) at Little Croft Family & Community Centre, 151 The Strand, Narre Warren South; $25pp (includes High Tea, refreshments and activities). Bookings: gerttashivachi.wixsite.com/e-girl-empowerment-i

Christmas on the Foreshore Carolsevent.Bringapicnicblanketandsomecamp chairs. Food trucks, entertainment, and fireworks.

• Friday 12 December 6pm-10pm at Tooradin foreshore; entry by gold coin donation.

Community Neighbourhood BBQ

Fundraising sausage sizzle provided by Cranbourne Scouts and Venturers. Evening for the whole family, with games for the kids.

• Friday 12 December 5.30pm-8pm at Cranbourne West Community Hub, 4 Flicka Blvd, Cranbourne West; free entry. Bookings essential: trybooking.com/events/landing/1410092?

Clyde Christmas Carols

Singer, Songwriter and Pastor, Kerrigan La-Brooy, is back again hosting Gethsemane’s Clyde Christmas Carols. Festive cheer, carnival atmosphere, prizes galore, gifts and giveaways. Live performances, food vendors, craft stalls, Santa Claus, childrens rides and amusements, raffle, Christmas Miracle with gifts for every registered child.

• Saturday 13 December 4.30pm-8.30pm at Hillcrest Christian College oval, 500 Soldiers Road, Clyde North; free event. Details: 0404 875 647 or kerriganlabrooy@bigpond.com

Endeavour Hills Community Carols Free event for the whole family. Local schools and music groups including gospel music group, Urban Praise. Food trucks, carnival games, children activities and fireworks.

• Saturday 13 December 5.30pm-9.30pm at Reveal Church, 2-8 Gleneagles Drive, Endeavour Hills; free event.

Music in the Park

Local choirs fill the park with festive cheer. BYO picnic and drinks, a small selection of food for purchase.

• Saturday 13 December 6pm-9pm at Wilson Botanic Park Berwick; $5 donation pp (children under 2 free)

Narre Warren North Carols

Family-friendly traditional carols. Relaxed picnic atmosphere without vendors or fireworks. Free sausage sizzle, tea and coffee. No dogs or other pets, except service animals.

• Saturday 13 December 6.30pm-10.30pm at

A’Beckett Road Reserve, Narre Warren North; $10 family of four or $5pp.

U3A Cranbourne

Non-profit group for over-50s with lots of craft, activities and social groups such as garden club, line danding, ukelele and guitar group and sing-

ing. New members are always welcome.

• 20-22 Bowen Street, Cranbourne. Details: u3acranbourne.org.au or 0493 991 919. Indoor Social Pickleball Casual, indoor social pickleball sessions. All equipment provided during this coach-free session.

• Mondays 5.30pm-6.30pm and Wednesdays 10am-11am at Olive Road Sporting Complex, 2 Frawley Road, Eumemmerring; free cost, or Sundays 12.30pm-2.30pm at Vickerman Building, Casey Stadium, Cranbourne; $6.20 for two hours. Bookings: trybooking.com/events/landing/1343237 (Olive Road) or 5996 6052 (Casey Stadium). Try booking in for Olive Road (Monday and Wednesday sessions). Scrabble in Berwick

Fridays 9.30am-12.00pm at Berwick Neighbourhood Centre, 112 High Street, Berwick. Details: David, 0433 566 456.

U3A Casey – Activities for Seniors

With over 580 members and 75 different classes, U3A Casey offers you a wide range of activities including Arts & Crafts, Music, Book Clubs, Social Clubs, Low-Impact Sports, Fitness, Cooking … and many more.

You can attend up to three classes for free to see if you like the classes before registering to join U3A Casey.

Membership from January to December is $60, or from July to December is $30, which allows you to choose to join any of our classes (subject to available vacancies).

• Details: u3acasey.org.au, 0493 280 458 or caseyu3a@gmail.com

Men’s Shed Junction Village Inc.

Retired men are most welcome to visit the Shed and have a chat/cuppa to check out our fully equipped Shed (lots of “toys” to play with!) and see what we do for the community. They do not need any woodwork experience as Shed members are happy to pass on their experience in an enjoyable and friendly atmosphere.

• Mondays 9am-11.30am and Wednesdays and Fridays from 9am-2.30pm at 41 Craig Road, Junction Village. Details: Garry, 0408 141 734.

ESCORTS R US Ladies Welcome. Mention this ad for $10 discount New Ladies from 5pm www.escortsrus.com.au 9775 3210 swa224c 12577486-AV46-22 ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE Anyone advertising a puppy, dog, kitten or cat in Victoria for sale or re-homing will need a source number from the Pet Exchange Register and a microchip identification number. It is now an offence to advertise unless the source number and microchip identification number is included in the advertisement or notice. For further information, call 136 186 or visit animalwelfare.vic.gov.au

MASSAGE THERAPISTS

ADVERTISERS, inthissection are qualified practitioners and offer nonsexualservices.

*Conditions:

your car, motorbike, truck, tractor, trailer, caravan, campervan, machinery or even your boat (with trailer), houseboat or other water toys. Include a colour photo for no extra charge.

1) Private sellers only. No refunds once sold.

2) Maximum of 10 lines including heading. 3) Extra charge for extra lines above 10. 4)

Marotta built for the task

By Blair Burns

New signings have been rolling in thick and fast at Amstel Reserve with plenty of new faces on the track at Cranbourne’s first training session this week as the club prepares to impress in Southern Division 2 next season.

One of the Eagles’ biggest recruits is Trent Marotta, a 197cm key forward who joins the club after a few strong seasons with South Croydon in the Eastern Football Netball League Premier Division.

The 21-year-old is also currently VFL-listed with Frankston Dolphins and has played 11 games across the past few seasons, kicking seven goals.

Marotta also came up through the junior pathways with Eastern Ranges and is set to make a huge difference to the new-look Cranbourne forward line alongside club legend Marc Holt.

Josh Cochrane from Oakleigh District has also put pen to paper this week, strengthening the Eagles’ defence as their 11th returning player.

Senior coach Angelo Soldatos said Marotta would offer the side great flexibility, with his impressive athleticism and work rate key features of his game.

“Key forwards are hard to find and guys that are 21, his size, and that move like him, are even harder to find,” Soldatos said.

“He can play … he can run and jump, he’s athletic, he kicks the ball well and I think he will be a very good player for a long time.

“Hopefully he can play a bit of VFL as well, we are very supportive of those aspirations.”

Soldatos added that there was a special buzz around the club, with excitement for what season 2026 may hold.

“We are looking forward to it, there is a bit of a different feel around the club and we know we are going down to Div 2, but everyone is pumped to get into it and fix what we did last year,” he said.

Throughout the off season, the focus for the

club was to retain the entire playing group which has allowed the club to be more active in its recruiting efforts.

“Because we did that so early, it gave us a bit of clear air to go out and recruit some players which was nice,” he said.

Despite being relegated to Division 2, there is

Kooweerup kicking on after strong win over Balnarring

Kooweerup’s Division 6 team continued its good start to the season on Saturday with a resounding 82-40 win against Balnarring.

The consistent rink of Steven Jenkins, Gian Pianezolla, Jim Jenkins and Adrian Wheelan won 20-16. For the second time this season the rink of Rod Heus, Cameron Davey, Peter Butera and Daniel Price demolished their opponents to win 45-8. Tim Katz, Steve Plumridge, Tracey Hill and Mav Katz had to settle for a 17-19 loss.

Meanwhile, Division 9 found Mt Eliza a little too strong losing 24-48.

Bec Watts, Helen Wright, Roger Norden and Nathan Jones were well beaten 8-24.

A little better was Jimi Watts, Jacqui Butera, Lyn Norden and Peter Dillow.

Unfortunately, Kooweerup’s Division 10 team – made up of new members to the club - received a forfeit from Mt Eliza

Although the forfeit saw points gained for

Kooweerup, it did not help the new players learn the game of bowls.

Kooweerup has a new recruit from Pakenham in Sandra Mueller who had also played at Cranbourne.

We wish Sandra all the very best at Kooweerup. Meanwhile,themidweekteamplayedtopteam Frankston in round three on Tuesday and had a nail-biter of a game losing 55-58.

All three rinks had exciting games with narrow margins.

Steve Plumridge, Helen Wight, Arthur Giaccotto and Robert Dorrity were beaten 21-22.

Sharing the points with a 17-17 draw was Jim Jenkins, Tracey Hill, Maggie Prosser and Mary Masters. And it was a narrow 17-19 loss for Joy Jenkins, Charles Poulsen, David Prosser and Helen Ralph.

-Rex Alexander

no shortage of excitement at Cranbourne with a core group of young players across all lines.

But the off-field efforts have been equally as important and will allow Soldatos to feel more supported in the role in 2026.

“It’s been a big off-season, but for me, I’m just as excited about the coaches that we have brought

in to support the players and their development,” Soldatos said.

“Last year we had two or three coaches and this year we are up to eight or nine across all grades, it’s going to make it easier for trainings and allow everything to run a bit smoother.”

Woolamai pumped up as picnic racing makes return

By David Nagel

The last weekend in spring coincides with the launch of the picnic racing season at Woolamai this Saturday with the club to host the first of six meetings from November through March.

Always a popular destination, Woolamai offers a relaxed environment in a very picturesquesetting;combiningheart-and-soulracing action with a magnificent social atmosphere.

Committee member Peter McCluskey said the club was more than ready to host its first meeting of the season.

“Recent rains have ensured the track will have good grass cover with even going right across the track,” McCluskey said.

“And the club has been busy during the offseason improving conditions for patrons as well.

“Most notably the viewing area under the famous elm trees has been extended by around 50 metres west, giving patrons more room to spread out their picnic chairs and mats and giv-

ing a longer on-course view of the straight.”

The big screen will again be a feature at Woolamai meetings this season, showing local, metropolitan and interstate races, while there will also be musical and kids entertainment.

Keen racing goers will be able to watch the main races from Caulfield, with the 10race metropolitan card featuring the $750,000 Group 2 Zipping Classic (2400m).

The six-race program at Woolamai kicks off around 1pm with the last at approximately 4.30pm.

Tickets can be purchased on-line at Woolamairaces.com.au or on the day at the course; 4km east of the Bass Hwy turnoff.

Following on from this week’s meeting, Woolamai’s remaining race meetings will all take place on Saturday’s; on December 20 (Christmas Races), January 3 (Kids Day Out), February 7 (Woolamai Cup), February 28 (Woolamai Whirlwind) and March 21 (Phillip Island Health Hub).

Hometown salute for Sabaj

By David Nagel

Co-trainers Mick Price and Michael Kent Jnr are celebrating back-to-back wins in their home cup after their four-year-old gelding Sabaj scored an emphatic victory in Saturday’s $500,000 Listed Ladbrokes Cranbourne Cup (1600m).

Just 12 months after Globe saluted on his home track at Cranbourne - before progressing to Group 1 glory - the son of Manhattan Rain/Bouzy is also showing signs of meeting the needs of the highest levels in racing.

The Cranbourne Cup win was Sabaj’s fifth win from just eight career starts; with Beau Mertens giving the middle-distance prospect a peach of a ride from barrier 12.

Mertens settled back three wide of a solid tempo, and kept clear air throughout, giving the best horse in the race the ideal opportunity to showcase his talents in the straight.

Sabaj picked up race-leader Warnie 100 metres from home, before holding off Enxuto and Holymanz to make it a Cranbourne-trained trifecta.

Price was full of praise for Sabaj; the new kid on the block and a potential stable star.

“We’ve got the autumn here in front of us with this horse if we want,” Price explained post-race.

“This is sort of a brand new horse.

“He’s perfectly sound, feet, knees, fetlock, lovely.

“He’s lightly raced with good ability.

“He’s clean winded and I think if we look after him he will be fine.

“I’m not saying he’s a tough horse, that’s not how we treat him, but I think we’re gelling with him and if we treat him right we can have a lovely horse in the autumn and we can chase a good race.”

Price said he and Kent Jnr were keen to learn more about Sabaj, given his rapid rise to prominence.

“Probably his work and what he copes with,” Price said.

“That’s the difficult part about training…when do you gel and when don’t you.

“I train enough losers to know (when) I’m not gelling with them, but I just feel with some horses we gel with them and with him, we’ve got his work right.

“We don’t overdo him and he’s clean winded and I think he appreciates that way of doing things.”

Price also praised Mertens for his ride; riding Sabaj like the best horse in the race from a wide draw.

“He did and sometimes outside gates is when you ride them cold,” he said.

“That’s good and it worked out well.

“There was just enough tempo; he balanced up nicely, he relaxed nicely and he finished off strongly. “I did say to him (Mertens), be the deepest horse.

“Don’t follow anything into the race because I wasn’t confident there was a horse where we would be.

“I don’t need to be tempted because he should have some sort of rating now to have a nice horse in the autumn.”

Mertens, who learned his craft at Cranbourne,

was thrilled to salute on the biggest day on the local racing calendar.

“It’s unbelievable; I didn’t think it would hit me as hard as it has,” Mertens said with emotion.

“I was apprenticed to Michael Kent here throughout my years at Cranbourne and now I have an association with Mick Price and Mick Kent Jnr.

“Mick Price has been a big part of my career for a very long time and we’ve had a great connection and a great association.

“It’s fantastic to deliver in such a fantastic race.”

Mertens said that the race went pretty much according to plan.

“I don’t think it could have worked out any better from the barrier we had,” he said.

“He’s not fast out of the machines and I just let

him naturally travel in a position he was comfortable in.

“We ended up on the back of Steparty in the three-wide line.

“I got dragged into the race where I didn’t have to do too much work and when I popped him out, he accelerated that quickly underneath me.

“He feels like a very, very nice horse and he put the race away very quick.”

Mertens feels the sky is the limit with Sabaj.

“The ceiling is the limit on the feeling he gave me today,” he said.

“I’ve done a bit of trackwork on him, but today, on the feeling, he’s a very nice horse and he’s going to get better and better.”

Sabaj had punters cheering; starting a $3.30 favourite after an impressive win at Flemington on Champions Day

McDonald dreaming of memorable Melbourne Cup glory

By David Nagel

Trainer Ned McDonald will look to emulate the deeds of his father Darren when his Group 1 winner Accredited jumps from box three in Saturday night’s $500,000 Group 1 Melbourne Cup (515m) at Sandown Park.

The McDonald name is synonymous with the most prestigious race on the Australian greyhound racing calendar, with Darren preparing three winners of the cup.

He first saluted with Hallucinate in 2004 before going back-to-back with Shanlyn Prince and Surgeon in 2007/08.

A win in the great race would cap off a spectacular month for the 25-year-old trainer after Accredited gave him his first Group1 success in the Hume Cup at The Meadows on Saturday 8 November.

Accredited proved his middle-distance capabilities at The Meadows that night, finishing powerfully over 600 metres.

A drop back to the 515 metres of Saturday night’s Melbourne Cup heat proved no obstacle for Accredited, who bounced brilliantly from box one to lead clearly at the first turn; running 5.01 for the first split.

From there it was a one-dog race.

“I was standing right behind the box and I saw the two (Aston Bugsy) shift off (the fence) a little bit like I thought it would; when he punched through and found the front, his 600-metre form showed that he wasn’t going to get run down,” McDonald said postrace.

It’s now onwards and upwards towards one of the great events of the season.

“These are the races we want to be in; this is

what we do it for; the build-up now for the week is just phenomenal and it’s just going to be a real good ride,” McDonald explained.

“Nothing different, just keep everything the same; it’s obviously working for him so change nothing.”

Accredited, who qualified fastest in 29.07, will face stiff opposition in the final with Canya Mayhem starting from box two after scorching the track with a 29.14 heat win.

Trainer David Geall will be looking for his third success in the race, with Spritely Sian starting from box four, while Mark Delbridge will be hoping Paw Zuri can provide him with his second cup win after Yachi Bale saluted in 2022.

Saturday night at Sandown Park promises to be a beauty, with the stayers sharing the spotlight with the running of the time-honoured

$75,000 Bold Trease (715m).

Jeff Britton (Valenzuela and Mepunga Lara) and Kayla Cottrell (Dashing Slay and Fade To Black) are the only two trainers to have runners in both the Melbourne Cup and Bold Trease on the night.

Here are the fields for the two big races on the card.

$500,000 Group 1 Melbourne Cup (515m)