Thursday, 29 January, 2026
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Australia Day Honours
Home invasion horror
Parking fight continues
Wonderful Weir’s salute
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SPORT
National pride Rithika Godha and Sai Prathika Godha were among 200 new citizens who waved national flags and pledged allegiance at a citizenship cemerony at Bunjil Place on Australia Day. They were welcomed by Casey’s mayor Stefan Koomen who told them they were joining a city that was stronger because of its diversity. More pictures, turn to page 11
(Ljubica Vrankovic: 530327)
Car theft plague After a series of car thefts at Fountain Gate Shopping Centre over the last few months, many victims are now calling for greater security. The centre, one of the region’s busiest retail hubs, has become a hotspot of concern as a series of car thefts in recent months shakes shopper confidence with many locals now hesitant to park or visit the centre amid fears their vehicles could be the next target.
The spate of incidents has included the theft of a brand-new Mazda from the centre’s underground car park on 18 January. The vehicle, which required a key fob to start, was gone when its owner returned, raising troubling questions about how thieves are bypassing modern security technology. Another victim, who had finished a late-night movie on 22 December, walked out to find her car
missing entirely. Residents say the growing issue has led to calls for stronger preventative measures, including the installation of boom gates and paid parking controls to combat opportunistic theft. “It would never have crossed my mind that this was happening,” one long-time shopper said. Cars are being targeted across the region, with motor vehicle theft among the most prominent
rising crime trends in Casey. Local motorists are being urged to stay vigilant and consider additional security devices, such as immobilisers. One Westfield Fountain Gate spokesperson said that customer safety remains a priority and is working in partnership with police and relevant government agencies. For more on this story, go to page 3
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