News - Cranbourne Star News - 29th January 2026

Double honours

It was a rare and fitting coincidence on Australia Day, with two long-serving firefighters whose careers are deeply linked to Langwarrin CFA recognised at the national level for their service to the community.

Veteran members Bill Ellis and Andrew Garth Johnson were both honoured in the 2026 Australia Day Honours.

Bill was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in recognition of more than 60 years of service to firefighting and community safety.

A stalwart of Langwarrin CFA, he has responded to countless incidents across the fast-growing Langwarrin and the Greater Cranbourne region, mentoring younger volunteers and becoming a widely respected figure within both the brigade and the local community.

“Firefighting, in my opinion, is 20 minutes of exhilaration, 20 hours of hard work. And two hours of boredom,” the veteran, who resides in

Cranbourne West now, said.

Andrew, who spent the majority of his 46-year emergency services career with Langwarrin CFA before transferring to Drouin CFA just weeks ago, was awarded the Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM).

He has been recognised not only for his operational leadership but also for his advocacy on mental health within emergency services, drawing on his lived experience to help reduce stigma

among firefighters.

“I’m very humbled to get it. I did not see that coming at all. It was a shock,” Andrew said.

“I don’t think I’ll celebrate it. I don’t see it as a celebration.

“I’m very humble about it because a lot of people do a lot of things in CFA, and I just see it as part of my job. It’s what I volunteered to do, and that’s why I did it.”

See inside for coverage

Mental health to the fore

By Violet Li

Veteran CFA firefighter Andrew Garth Johnson has been awarded the Australian Fire Service Medal as part of the Australia Day Honours.

Before moving to Drouin CFA a few months back, Andrew spent much of his 46-year career in emergency services with Langwarrin CFA and is widely recognised for his advocacy for the mental health of emergency service workers.

Based near Cranbourne, Langwarrin CFA serves one of Melbourne’s fastest-growing corridors and has long been a key rescue brigade for the region.

Last year, Andrew shared his lived experience with the Emergency Services Foundation (ESF), shedding light on the self-stigma that still exists within emergency services and how open conversations can help dismantle it.

In 1992, Andrew was called to a car accident, which involved the children of his friend. In the days that followed, Andrew refused counselling, believing that he was fine. He threw himself deeper into the job, responding to every rescue call he could, often more than 200 a year.

Over time, he was getting cranky, arrogant, and obnoxious without noticing. His business collapsed. His family life suffered.

A year after the crash, the friend died by suicide after a coroner’s finding placed responsibility for the accident on him.

“I can remember lying in bed one night, and for just some stupid reason, I started counting how many fatalities I’ve been to. I got to 130, and I stopped counting. Because I’m thinking this is ridiculous,” Andrew said.

“Why am I counting how many fatalities I’ve been to? And I can remember every one of them. Every one of them, location, the time of day, the day that it was. And it’s just part of having PTSD, I suppose.”

It would take Andrew 23 years to seek proper help.

He remembered that A4 sheet, printed with what was wrong with him: severe depression, severe anxiety, severe stress, PTSD. But he felt the world had been lifted off his shoulders.

“I was on cloud nine, going, wow. This is what’s wrong with me,” Andrew said in his sharing with the ESF.

“This is what’s been happening. But it wasn’t to end there.”

What followed was healing, slow, deliberate and supported by people who understood emergency services. Medication. Therapy. The recovery would not have been possible without the support of his wife, who also works for CFA. She helped him and pushed him in the right direction.

“The one that triggered me, I have this photo in my brain, and I see it every day. Every day. But I can manage it,” Andrew said.

“I was taught how to manage it through my psychologist.”

Today, Andrew and his family are loving life. They also travel across Victoria to speak with brigades and communities about mental health.

The real danger of traumatic work was not a single incident, but the way experiences quietly accumulated over time, especially when they were never spoken about, Andrew said,

looking back now.

“If you don’t get it off your chest and you bottle it up, which most men do, especially men, females do it as well, but what I find is men, they won’t talk about because there’s a horrible stigma there.

“They feel like they’re ashamed and they don’t talk about it, and they don’t cry, unless they’re behind closed doors. The cumulative effect was huge with me. I was just getting worse and worse and worse in my mental health. I just denied that there was a problem.

I’m very humble about it because a lot of people do a lot of things in CFA, and I just see it as part of my job. It’s what I volunteered to do, and that’s why I did it.”

“That’s why I do it now. And it’s just to break down that stigma to get, especially men, to start talking about their mental health. It’s okay not to be okay.”

Despite his mental struggles, Andrew said he never felt fear when responding to emergencies.

When the pager sounded, he would shift into a calm, cool, collected mindset.

“I’m more scared of everyday life than I am of the fire brigade,” he said.

“I see this stuff on the TV, like everybody else, about all the crime and all that in the state, and it frightens living daylights out of me.

“But I can go right into a burning home and extricate somebody out and not think another thing of it.”

Speaking about the medal, Andrew shared that he received a nomination email on an ordinary day in October.

He and his wife were sitting outside a Melbourne cafe, waiting for a doctor’s appointment, when Andrew flicked through his inbox. He got a second email on approval at Christmas time.

“I’m very humbled to get it. I did not see that coming at all. It was a shock,” Andrew said.

“I don’t think I’ll celebrate it. I don’t see it as a celebration.

“I’m very humble about it because a lot of people do a lot of things in CFA, and I just see it as part of my job. It’s what I volunteered to do, and that’s why I did it.

“I don’t do it for accolades or medals, or I just do it because I love doing it. It’s very humbling because there are a lot of people who have done more than me who haven’t got it.”

According to a 2021 research paper on Australian & New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry, police and emergency service workers report significantly higher rates of suicidal thoughts than the general population.

The research linked increased risk to cumulative trauma and workplace stigma, while highlighting that strong support networks and open conversations can reduce harm.

A story by The Conversation in 2022 noted that between January 2001 and December 2016, there were a recorded 197 suicide deaths of current or former emergency services personnel.

Those in need of assistance should call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

Appeal after home invasion

By Violet Li

Police are appealing for public assistance following a frightening and violent aggravated home invasion in Clyde North last week.

Two unknown men reportedly pulled up in a vehicle on Aintree Close at about 2.20am on Friday 23 January.

They gained access to a home garage on Yellowstone Avenue in what police say was an opportunistic crime.

One of the victims Rodney, 58, couldn’t sleep, so he went downstairs and had a cigarette.

He opened the garage door just a little, and then several minutes later, two unknown men barged in.

They pointed a gun at him and threatened to kill him if he didn’t hand over car keys.

One of the intruders knocked him down, leaving him with a puffy and swollen face.

His wife Annie-Maureen, 59, was woken in bed by the same intruders demanding the keys.

“I’m a grumpy waker. And I was like what the hell is he opening all the lights for?

“I just looked up and there were two guns in my face.”

The intruders made off with a wallet and garage fob, but were unable to steal the victim’s vehicle as it was fitted with a club lock.

They were last seen fleeing the scene in what was believed to be a maroon-coloured sedan, towards Patterson Road.

Annie-Maureen grabbed a baseball bat from next to the bed and went downstairs.

She found Rodney swaying on his feet in the garage.

“They’re absolute scum of the earth,” she said of the intruders.

“Everybody’s working hard. Everyone’s finding it difficult to survive. You just don’t do that.

“It’s not the country that I thought I was happy with at the moment. You should all feel safe like we did when we were young.”

“Nowadays, you just have to even look after yourself before you unlock your car. In the shopping centre, I made sure I have to look around me because I feel unsafe.

“And now I feel even more unsafe. I went to work this morning, and someone just walked through the door, and I just shot through the roof.

“It will take time for me to recover from this.”

Annie-Maureen said the offender’s blue eyes kept playing around in her head.

“Just the blue eyes that were just staring at me, poking out of its head and insanely upset. I can’t get his eyes out of my head,” she said.

Investigators have released CCTV and digital composite images of two men who they believe can assist the investigation.

The first offender is perceived to be Caucasian in appearance, aged in his early 20s, approximately 180cm tall with a tanned complexion and blue eyes.

He was seen wearing a black hoodie and a black surgical mask at the time of the offence.

The second offender is perceived to be Caucasian in appearance, aged in his late teens, and approximately 180cm tall with blue eyes.

He was seen wearing a black ski mask and a black hoodie at the time of the offence.

Detective Senior Constable Candice Taylor of Southern Region Crime Squad said this aggravat-

ed home invasion would have been absolutely terrifying for the residents of the property.

“No one expects to be threatened with a weapon, or to wake up with two violent males making demands in your house at 2am,” she said.

“We are urging anyone with information, or who might recognise these males, to come forward and speak to police.”

Any information or footage to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au

Series of car thefts at shopping centre sparks concern

By Jensy Callimootoo

Fountain Gate Shopping Centre has been a hotspot for a string of car thefts over the last few months with many shoppers are now choosing not to park their cars there or attend the shops altogether.

And many more are urging for greater security, such as boom gates and paid parking to ward off or limit recurring car theft.

One recent victim, who does not want to be named, had her car stolen on Sunday 18 January from an underground carpark between 12pm and 2pm.

She told Star News that the “brand new” Mazda had only been purchased in September 2025 and requires a key fob to start.

“When we returned to leave, my car was gone and another car had been parked in its spot. I was shocked and in disbelief,” she said.

“What made the situation even more concerning is that the vehicle requires a key fob to unlock and start, which raises serious questions about how the theft was able to occur.”

Following her endeavours to find the car, she made a social media post urging anyone for information.

This was when she found out that the stolen car was located in Berwick, where another local witnessed the alleged offender stealing a set of number plates from another vehicle.

The Hampton Park woman says she’s been living in the area for 30 years and that the shopping centre has been a “regular place to shop”, she now calls for stronger security measures.

“It would never have crossed my mind that this was happening,” she said.

“They really need to install boom gates and paid parking like other shopping centres, if this keeps happening.”

Nearly a month prior, Amy’s car was also stolen on 22 December, at about 7:10pm at night.

As she walked out of the shopping centre around 12am after watching a movie, she realised her vehicle was gone.

“We walked out at about 10 past 12, and me and my husband both looked at each other, going, where’s the car?

“And it was just gone.”

The car was found a week later, but she still hasn’t been able to see it herself.

She says the event upended her plans to travel over the holidays.

“It stuffed everything up, because we were meant to go away camping and meant to tow a caravan, but we couldn’t do any of that because I didn’t have my car.”

Amy says that the centre has been her local shopping centre for years, and that she did not expect something like this to happen.

“I’m quite scared when I either get the car back or I get a new car about going there,” she said.

Tim’s wife’s car was targeted during a separate event on 18 December near the same parking lot.

Telling Star News, that the car at the time of the theft, was full of Christmas shopping from earlier in the day.

“She noticed as soon as she stepped out of the doors that the car wasn’t there and our daughter started freaking out,” Tim said.

Tim says that they have not been back to their local shopping centre since the theft.

“We haven’t been back yet…. and when we do go back, I’ll drop her off and stay in the car,” he said.

“(My) wife’s still upset, a brand new 100k car just gone. Then a few thousand in presents as well as our daughter’s school bag and toys.

“I can tell it’s eating at them both.”

Similarly to Amy, Tim’s car is being held at a towing yard, and he says they “aren’t allowed to view it or see if there’s anything left inside”.

Casey Police’s Local Area Commander Inspector, Stu Richards, said that their unit are investigating several reported car thefts from the centre over the past two months.

“Police have received reports of vehicles of varying makes and models being taken from different areas of the shopping centre carpark,” said the commander.

“There is no intelligence to suggest any of the thefts are linked.

“Two Nissan Patrols stolen on 18 and 22 December have since been recovered in Sunshine and Doveton respectively, however, their registration plates remain outstanding.

“In some of the incidents, the vehicles were locked and the owner retained the car keys, indicating third-party key-reprogramming devices may have been used to steal the vehicles.

“Police are urging owners to install anti-theft measures such as on-board diagnostic port locks (OBD), while continuing to engage with impacted manufacturers and insurers to help prevent this from occurring.

“Victoria Police reminds vehicle owners to lock their car doors and windows to deter opportunistic thieves, and where possible, park in well-lit areas. For added security consider using steering locks and secure your keys when not in use.

“A full list of anti-theft measures can be found on the Victoria Police website, with a range of auto shops and websites stocking anti-theft products.”

Nathan, owner of Automotive Lighting Customs in Rowville, told Star News that over the last few months, many Casey residents have travelled to his shop to install a small immobiliser that

works to inhibit car theft.

The technician also said that often, steering wheel locks or OBD locks doesn’t always prevent theft, giving owners “a false sense of security”.

“The IGLA immobiliser is a very small device, a bit smaller than your pinky finger,” he said.

“It gets wired into the vehicle and communicates to the vehicle’s computers to stop the car from starting.”

By entering a customised pin, set up by the car’s owner, the vehicle can only be started once the pin is entered.

“Its small size means we can hide it in many places in a car and in such a way that someone could pull apart the car and practically be touching it and not know it’s there,” said Nathan.

A Westfield Fountain Gate spokesperson told Star News that ensuring safety of those who attend the centre is their highest priority.

“The safety and security of our customers, business partners and community is our highest priority,” they said.

“Our security approach is designed in close partnership with law enforcement, including police and relevant government agencies.

“We work very closely with local authorities to respond to incidents and collaborate on initiatives that support community safety and vigilance.”Fountain Gate centre management has been contacted for comment, no response has been received at the time of publication.

For the year ending 2025, Crime Statistics Agency recorded 1466 motor vehicles theft in Casey.

As one of the biggest municipality in Victoria, it puts the region as second in the state for total vehicles stolen after the Melbourne CBD.

Anyone with information on any of the car thefts is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit crimestoppersvic.com.au.

Looking out for community

By Violet Li

Veteran Langwarrin CFA member Bill Ellis has been awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in recognition of more than six decades of service to firefighting and community safety.

Last year, in September, Bill was just awarded the CFA Outstanding Service Medal for his 64 years of service to CFA Langwarrin, the highest level of internal award. That lifelong commitment to service has now been recognised at the next level with the OAM.

“Firefighting, in my opinion, is 20 minutes of exhilaration, 20 hours of hard work. And two hours of boredom,” the veteran, who resides in Cranbourne West now, said.

“When you’re working on a thing called Rescue, that’s the most important, Exposures, Confinement. Confinement of the fire, Extinguishment of the fire, and Overhaul, which means you’re putting out all the little spots and making it safe completely, so that you can go home.

“As I say, it needs 20 minutes of acceleration, your adrenaline’s running, and then you’ve got two hours of bloody boredom putting all this s**t out.

“To be a good fireman, you have to have adrenaline, but you have to know how to control that adrenaline. Because if you have too much, you do things wrong, and you do some stupid things. So you’ve got to have it, but you’ve got to be able to control it.

“And that’s where old buggers like me come on by, where you can sort of help and lead the younger ones the right way.”

In recent years, Bill has focused on mentoring younger members and sharing the experience he has built over decades of service.

Last year, he stepped back from active truck duties and instead continued supporting the brigade in background roles after ongoing leg issues limited his operational work.

Over his decades of service, Bill attended countless major incidents across Victoria, including some of the state’s most devastating bushfires. He was involved in operations during the 1983 Ash Wednesday fires in the Dandenong Ranges, then the deadliest bushfires in Australian history, before the Black Saturday fires in 2009.

“They lost a fellow truck full of firemen…I got the job to go and assist the police and the coroner to sort out the firies that had been killed. It didn’t do me any good,” Bill recalled.

“We’ve now got what we call a peer group, which comes around and talks to you, which is good. Back in the day, you had nothing.

“And it was a captain of the time who forced me to go to this memorial at Nare Warren, the shopping Centre. He forced me to go there, and there was something that the Minister said during that lifted it off my shoulders, and I started to become normal again.

“I suffered a little bit over that.”

$1.3m reserve

Construction has begun on a major upgrade to Pearcedale Reserve, with the $1.3 million Playground and Skate Park project set to transform the space into a more inclusive, family-friendly destination for locals.

The upgrade follows strong community engagement, with nearly 1,000 Pearcedale residents, including young people and families, providing feedback during consultation last year.

Their input helped shape the final design, now taking form on site.

City of Casey Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen said community input is vital to delivering spaces and places that truly reflect local needs.

“It was fantastic to see the Pearcedale community have their say and for Council to respond and deliver what matters most to them,” he said.

“Projects like this show how strong engagement helps create places our communities can enjoy now and into the future.”

Deputy Mayor Cr Michelle Crowther said residents were clear about what they wanted to see at the reserve.

“The Pearcedale community played a key role in shaping this upgrade, telling us they wanted more diverse play areas, improved skate features and better places to gather,” she said.

“Council has listened and responded, and this new design delivers exactly what local families and young people asked for.”

Once completed, the upgraded reserve will feature a new district-level playground, an expanded street skate area, safety repairs to the ex-

Bill was also deployed interstate and overseas, assisting with firefighting in Tasmania, New South Wales and South Australia.

Today, Bill is a strong advocate for the CFA’s peer-support model, which encourages firefighters to talk openly about difficult jobs.

He recalled one road accident he went to, where he spent one hour talking to a deceased lady just to convince her husband, who was also trapped in the car, that she was okay.

“The peer group is one of the best things they ever brought in. A lot of people don’t like it, but I still reckon it’s good. We have a lot of debriefs now,” Bill said.

“We debrief when we come in, especially from those rescues, as we drive them back, sit there driving the truck and we’ll be talking about the job.

“Two things, one, it teaches us, and it also releases the tension. We do have a shocking black humour.

“You have a lot of going to a lot of deaths…Your

black humour is needed so you don’t go gaga… But you gotta do it. Somebody’s gotta do it.

“It’s got into my blood, and I’m glad I do it.”

Based near Cranbourne, Langwarrin CFA serves one of Melbourne’s fastest-growing corridors and has long been a key rescue brigade for the region.

When Bill joined the brigade in 1961, Langwarrin was still largely rural, and firefighting was considered a community responsibility rather than a volunteer choice.

“Back in the day, Langwarrin was next to no people. They had 36 kids in the school,” Bill recalled.

Back then, the brigade attended only a few dozen fires a year. Today, Langwarrin CFA responds to more than 400 incidents annually, including complex road rescues.

Bill attributed the activity growth to population growth and urban expansion.

“The area’s grown. Public’s come in. Won’t say a lot of the public is stupid, but a lot of people, es-

upgrade gets underway

isting skate bowl, and a refurbished gravel pump track for BMX riders.

The project also includes a new picnic shelter with a barbecue, additional seating, new concrete paths, improved drainage, and extensive tree and garden bed planting.

The Playground and Skate Park upgrade is jointly funded by the City of Casey and the State Government, with works expected to be completed later this year.

Meanwhile, Casey Council has also opened two new playgrounds elsewhere in the munici-

pecially those who have come from the city, and have gone, fire brigade, oh, there’s two or three trucks up, they’re paid,” he said.

“But it was really country in the 60s, or even the 70s. And you don’t realise the difference between the Metropolitan Brigade and the Country Fire Brigade. The country was basically, was all volunteers, which we are now as well.”

Over the years, Bill served as an operational officer for more than three decades before stepping into leadership roles.

He said he was lucky because he had grown up with very competent people.

“Like my ex-captains, Terry Shannon, Doug Quilliam, Reg Nelson, even the later ones, they’re quite competent people and learned a lot from them,” he said.

“Learned a lot from the old farmers of the area. If you go to a big fire, the first thing I look for as a crew leader is the locals. I go and talk to them, and half the time they can tell you where the fly’s going to go because they know their area.

“They know where the wind’s going to go. They know the topography of the land.

Despite the medals and milestones, Bill said what mattered most to him was the brigade itself and the people he served alongside.

In August last year, members of the Langwarrin and Hastings brigades were among 24 CFA volunteers recognised with a Unit Citation for Service for their work at an extremely rare and confronting industrial rescue in Hastings.

The award acknowledged their professionalism, teamwork and technical skill in freeing a man who had been crushed and pinned by a 10-tonne roller while also assisting another worker who had become unconscious, an operation that involved coordination with multiple agencies and complex extrication techniques.

“They did great work…I’m proud of them,” Bill said.

“Langwarrin is the best for me. We take it seriously.”

Motorcycle rider dies in collision

Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal collision in Cranbourne West on the evening of Monday 26 January. Emergency services responded to reports of a collision between a vehicle and a motorcycle on Evans Road at about 6.30pm.

CPR was performed on the yet-to-be formally identified rider, who died at the scene.

Three occupants of the vehicle, a man and two women, were given medical assistance at the scene.

pality this month, at Max Pawsey Reserve in Narre Warren and Betula Reserve in Doveton.

The Max Pawsey Reserve upgrade includes a new district play space designed for all ages and abilities, featuring nature play elements, an imaginative creek with water play, an inclusive seesaw and a half basketball court.

At Betula Reserve, the new playground is set among River Red Gums and includes a sky tower offering canopy views, swings suitable for all ages and abilities, and a nature-based play circuit with timber steppers, logs and stepping stones.

The circumstances surrounding the collision are yet to be established, and an investigation is ongoing.

Evans Road was closed in both directions, with detours in place.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, with footage or information, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or anonymously at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

Traumatising incident

A Hampton Park man says his “life has changed forever” after a horrifying alleged stabbing on the evening of New Year’s Eve at Pakenham Station.

James says he remembers watching his family surrounding him as he bled out, thinking that he was going to die after two men, known to the family, approached them.

He suffered a serious injury to his face and neck where he lost approximately three litres of blood and underwent extensive surgery to repair his nerve and muscles at Alfred Hospital.

The 38-year old father of three was on his way to watch the fireworks to ring in the new year with his ex-partner, Nadene, children and friends before the alleged attack occurred.

Star News was told by authorities and James that the parties were known to each other before the incident occurred.

“These boys approached us, who had threatened our eldest son, who’s 13, earlier that day to stab him,” said Nadene.

“And our youngest yelled out to us that’s them.

“And they were looking directly at my eldest son, going in the direction of him.

“So James stood in front of them and you know, tried to get their attention onto him… and then the middle one had a machete and hit him straight across the face.”

Nadene says that James “was left to bleed out” as he waited over half an hour for the ambulance to arrive.

“Everyone was there, just having to watch him literally bleed out,” she said.

“There’s nothing we could do.”

Nearly one month later, James’ injury has healed, but he says the alleged assault has left behind the lingering trauma of the incident.

“To be honest, I thought I was actually gonna die there, right there,” he said.

“It’s changed me.”

James was put in a drug-induced coma for 12 hours, where they had to restitch his sciatic nerves, vessels and muscles in his cheek and ear.

“It’s changed me in a way that I can’t really even explain,” he said.

Authorities have told Star News that a search warrant at a Pakenham property was executed the following day at 12:30pm, where a 19-year old man and 16-year old boy were arrested, interviewed and later released pending further enquiries.

The family has now moved away from Pakenham to Casey, but the parents remain concerned about the future of their children, both calling for greater and stricter protection fol-

lowing the alleged crime.

“We’re scared if something’s not done, that it will be our kid that gets hurt,” said Nadene.

“I’m terrified for my kids, I don’t even want them in Pakenham anymore,” James added.

“And I’ve lived here my whole life, and don’t even want to be here.”

Police say the investigation remains ongoing.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, has footage or any information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or go to crimestoppersvic.com.au

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Thousands raised for CFA

By Jensy Callimootoo

Despite being a scorcher of a day on Saturday, many from the community came together to raise more than $4000 for Narre Warren Fire Brigade CFA.

The temperature on Saturday rose to 39 degrees, but it did not deter many from driving out for a good car wash, all up, the endeavours by the brigade raised a whopping $4548, with a spokesperson saying that those numbers are still growing.

It was so busy that not long into the day, the unit had to turn people away for a short time due to reaching full capacity.

With an ice cream truck on hand, many locals were able to indulge in some replenishment to stay cool while waiting for the CFA team to shine their vehicles.

One local, David, said that he was so impressed by the first car wash, that he went home to bring in his second car for a wash.

The spokesperson from the brigade said that the fundraiser was a major success and that the support from the community meant so much to the local unit.

“We know it was an extremely hot day and many of them waited patiently in long lines,” said the spokesperson.

“(Their) understanding, encouragement and positive attitudes throughout the day did not go unnoticed.

All funds raised will be put towards the construction of a new shed to house our new catering food truck, helping the brigade continue to support emergency services and the wider community at events and incidents.

Australia Day

OPINION

Australia is a young country on an ancient landand we are having an identity crisis.

We argue about dates, flags, names, and labels because we have never done the harder work of agreeing on what it actually means to be Australian.

Until we do, Australia Day will remain a proxy war - not the real issue.

Here’s a very compressed timeline we rarely hold together

•1606: Dutch navigator Willem Janszoon lands; later called New Holland (followed by many other convoys of Dutch origin)

•1770: James Cook claims the east coast for Britain under terra nullius

•1788: First Fleet arrives - a penal colony is established - 26 January

•1901: Federation

•1938: Aboriginal leaders protest, demanding equality and citizenship - 26 January

•1949: Australian citizenship legally created26 January

•1967: Referendum passes with over 90 per cent support for our First Nations rights

•1994: 26 January fixed as a national public holiday

All of this is true. And all of it matters.

For some, 26 January represents citizenship, belonging, and national pride.

For others, it represents dispossession, exclusion, and unresolved grief.

Both realities exist at the same time.

“(The)

patience, kindness and ongoing support remind us how fortunate we are to serve such a supportive and generous community,” said the spokesperson.

isn’t the problem – our identity is

Pretending otherwise - on either side - is intellectually lazy and socially dangerous.

But here’s the part we keep avoiding: a nation cannot survive if every shared symbol becomes untouchable, and every disagreement is framed as moral failure.

Why are we turning on each other?

This is not really about a BBQ, a date or a flag.

It is about people asking - loudly or quietly“Do I belong here?”

I personally have been told:

•“Australia is for Aussies.”

•“You clearly are not one.”

•“Go back to where you came from.”

I have lived and breathed Australian all my life. My family built lives here. This is where I come from.

I am generations away from India. Some of my ancestors settled here from about 1830.

At the same time, I have seen people - of all backgrounds - reduce themselves to grievance, entitlement, or permanent victimhood. That helps no one.

Blame does not build nations.

Entitlement does not heal trauma.

Pandering does not create unity.

We are all products of pain – are we not?

Every ancestry carries persecution: colonisation, genocide, war, famine, forced migration, religious violence.

Australia is made up of:

1. People with convict ancestry (mainly “white tribe”)

2. Early free settlers (also mainly from the “white tribe”)

3. Skilled migrants

4. Refugees

5. First Nations peoples

Pain is not a competition.

The question is not who suffered more - it is what we do with the inheritance of that suffering.

Australia Day does not need erasing. Nor does it need blind celebration.

It needs maturity.

No government can give you pride.

No date can take it away.

Recently, through our Conversations at the Crossroads forum on Facebook, we brought together a diverse group of Australians, including respected First Nations elder Uncle Gene Blow, to sit with the discomfort and complexity of Australia Day.

We spoke honestly about pain, history, pride, and belonging.

The conclusion was clear and unanimous: we do not erase the date (at least until such time as Australia becomes a republic), but we reframe it.

We propose an approach similar to Anzac Day in its tone and structure.

The day would begin with a Morning of Mourning -dawn services, yarning circles, smoking ceremonies - where we acknowledge the ancient custodianship of this land, the atrocities committed, the lives lost, and the enduring pain carried by First Nations peoples.

This is not about guilt; it is about truth and respect.

As the day unfolds, it transitions into citizenship ceremonies, Australia Day Awards, and civic recognition, honouring contribution, service, and shared responsibility.

By midday, the nation moves into celebration - BBQs, sport, community gatherings - embracing what it means to be Australian today.

The evening culminates in harbour and beachside concerts, reflecting unity, diversity, and national pride.

This is not contradiction. It is maturity.

It is how a confident nation holds grief and gratitude in the same hands - and chooses to walk forward together.

Truth be told - Australia is not broken. But it is unfinished.

And finishing it requires courage, honesty, and a willingness to live together - not shout past one another - on this remarkable land we all call home.

After a successful run in Dandenong, the Ramadan night market is now coming to Casey for two special nights in February 2026.

The Bright Community Organisation is expanding the community event, with promises of rich celebrations of culture, diverse food vendors and stalls and a chance to connect with the community.

Observed by Muslims worldwide, this year’s Ramadan will begin on 16 February as a month of fasting, communal prayer and reflection within the community. While the festivities in Dandenong will be taking place over 16 days, on 24 February and 26 February, Casey locals are also able to bask in the celebrations a little closer to home.

Bruce MP, Julian Hill said that the 2026 Ramadan Markets were planning to be “bigger and better” than it has ever been in the previous years. The location of the market in Casey is yet to be revealed.

Three alleged drug mules

Three men from Melbourne’s South East have been accused of allegedly trying to smuggle drugs with a street value of more than $24 million on an international flight into Australia.

A Narre Warren man, 22, a Berwick man, 22, and a Wheelers Hill man, 22, were intercepted by Australian Border Force officers, who X-rayed the group’s luggage on arrival from Thailand into Sydney Airport on Friday afternoon, 23 January.

The officers searched the suitcases and allegedly found dozens of individual shrinkwrapped bricks which contained a white substance.

ABF presumptive testing returned a positive result for methamphetamine and heroin, with an estimated weight of 34kg of heroin and 8kg of methamphetamine detected.

This amount of heroin, had it reached the

Australian community, had an estimated street value of about $17 million, with the potential for about 170,000 street-level deals, according to Australian Federal Police.

The methamphetamine had an estimated street value of $7.4 million, with the potential for about 80,000 street-level deals, the AFP stated.

AFP officers arrested the men, who were each charged with importing a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug and possessing a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug.

The offences carry a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.

The trio were expected to front a NSW Local Court on 24 January.

AFP Detective Superintendent Morgen Blunden said illicit drugs were destructive and harmful to the community, with the AFP and its law

enforcement partners committed to disrupting criminals from attempting to import illicit substances into the country.

“Australian airports are not gateways for drug importations for criminal syndicates – anyone attempting to conceal illicit substances and enter our country will be caught and prosecuted,” Det Supt Blunden said.

“This alleged attempt of not one – but three – alleged drug mules attempting to import illicit substances into our country is brazen.

“These arrests should serve as a serious warning to the organised criminal networks involved, the AFP, together with our law enforcement partners are ready, and waiting, to disrupt your illicit operations.

“We are committed to defending Australia from drug trafficking, and disrupting the crimi-

nals attempting to profit at the expense and suffering of the community.”

ABF Acting Superintendent Neil Singh said the brazen nature of criminal syndicates attempting to smuggle multiple consignments at once shows the extreme lengths they will go.

“Criminal syndicates, by their very nature, exploit vulnerable people and will undertake whatever means necessary to import drugs into our country,” Acting Supt Singh said.

“They only care about turning a profit, they turn a blind eye to the damage and harm these substances cause to the community.

“The Australian border is our most critical national asset, and our ABF officers will continue to work around the clock to ensure it remains a hostile environment for those doing the wrong thing.”

Teenagers flee stolen-car crash on Monash Freeway

Up to eight teen boys fled from a stolen car after a two-vehicle crash in Endeavour Hills on Saturday morning 24 January.

The allegedly stolen white Mazda 3 was spotted by other motorists driving erratically inbound on Monash Freeway.

It collided with a Mercedes SUV, causing it to flip on its roof just east of South Gippsland Highway about 10.25am.

One of the fleeing boys was caught by a member of the public, and held down until police arrived just after 10.25am.

The 15-year-old boy was to be interviewed by police.

The other seven teens fled into nearby bushland.

Air Wing was called to assist with their search but they were unable to be found.

The female driver and sole occupant of

the Mercedes sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was conveyed to hospital.

The Mazda was stolen from a car park in Noble Park on 30 December, police say.

While responding to the Endeavour Hills incident, police observed an allegedly stolen Nissan Navara stopped in the emergency lane on the Monash Freeway, Hallam.

As officers attempted to intercept the Nissan, the driver and passenger fled inbound in the vehicle.

A short time later, the Nissan collided into six vehicles on the freeway at the Belgrave Hallam Road off-ramp.

The driver and his passenger fled on foot.

Police say they were not in pursuit of the vehicle at the time of the incident.

Officers are not aware of any injuries as a result of this incident.

No arrests have been made and police do not believe the two incidents are related.

The Nissan was stolen from a car park at the Cranbourne Railway Station on 20 January, police say.

Any information or dashcam/CCTV footage to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or rimestoppersvic.com.au

Morning tea and tours - Thursday 5 Feb, from 10am

Held on the first Thursday of every month, this event is a great way to learn about all the Summerset Cranbourne North has to offer.

Tour the village and available homes, thoughtfully designed with ageing in mind.

Finish off with a cuppa and a pastry, and take the opportunity to ask any questions you might have.

Tours at 10am and 11:30am.

Care information session - Saturday 28 Feb, 10am to 12pm

Join us for an informative session where you’ll gain valuable insights into the care and support options that will be available in our village centre.

Our team will present and overview of Summerset’s unique continuum of care, designed to support residents as their needs change over time.* You’ll also learn about the different levels of care we offer.

Light refreshments will be provided.

Join us at our February events

Thurs 5 & Sat 28 February

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

Venue revived for new era

By Violet Li

A change of ownership six months ago has marked a new chapter for Cranbourne landmark The Amazing Grace, with hospitality veteran Adam Sadiqzai returning from a brief retirement to refresh the long-standing venue.

After selling his successful Lysterfield restaurant Stella’s Kitchen, Adam initially stepped away from hospitality, attempting retirement for the first time in more than four decades.

The break lasted just four months.

“Couldn’t take it,” Adam admitted.

“Then I had a call about this venue (The Amazing Grace). It’s just a very beautiful venue that needed just a bit of love and a bit of passion.

“We’ve brought that love and passion back into here by changing the menus, updating the menus to be more of a restaurant-type experience.

“Although we’ve kept some of the pub classics there as well, at the moment, we’re concentrating on bettering the business by getting new tables, chairs, new crockery, pottery, and getting it refreshed with painting.”

With Cranbourne’s rapid growth and changing demographics, Adam believes the timing is right for a venue that offers something different.

Housed in a former church that has been part of Cranbourne’s dining landscape for decades, The Amazing Grace has worn many hats over the years, from fine dining to themed eateries and, more recently, a pub-style venue. The focus has been on repositioning it as a restaurant-style venue while retaining the comfort of familiar pub classics.

Since the takeover, one of the most noticeable changes has been the return of full table service, replacing QR-code ordering.

“Because I’m old school, we’re bringing back the table service element of it,” Adam said.

“Which gives us the opportunity to talk to clients and get to know our clients at personal level, which has been very enjoyable. I have to say, people here have been amazing and very welcoming. I find the people of Cranbourne to be salt-of-theearth.

“We’ve been welcomed in Cranbourne. They’re loving it. People are really enjoying the

fact that there’s more than just pubs to go to. They can actually go to a restaurant-style place.”

Entertainment has also become a key part of the venue’s renewed identity.

Live music now features regularly on Friday nights, with performers using both the chapel stage and the adjoining indoor-outdoor space.

The venue has also hosted themed cultural nights, drag bingo and private events, with comedy nights considered.

Beyond dining, The Amazing Grace has quickly re-established itself as a popular function destination.

Weddings, milestone birthdays and community celebrations are already filling the calendar, while the undercover beer garden, complete with its own bar, has proven popular for birthday parties and group bookings.

“I’d like this to be a comfortable, safe environment for people to be able to enjoy and enjoy good food service and laughs, just feel at home, which we’re achieving now,” Adam said.

“We’re bringing that experience from Stella’s across to here, and it’s nice to see some of my old Stella clients popping in and visiting me here.”

A long-time Berwick resident with deep ties across the Casey and Cardinia regions, Adam said community connection was central to his vision for the venue.

He has spent decades involved with local foundations, boards and cultural projects, and sees the restaurant as another way to give back.

“Every business has, I think, a social responsibility to give back to the community in which they do business,” Adam said.

Adam is also joined in the business by well-

Adam comes from one of Australia’s longestablished hospitality families, with his parents migrating to Australia in the 1950s and turning to hospitality at a time when professional opportunities for migrants were limited.

His family opened their first restaurant in the early 1960s, and Adam said he was “literally born crawling on the floors of restaurants”, growing up in the industry alongside his siblings.

“We all participated in that restaurant. My mom used to go to the market and jump on a tram with a box of peas or beans,” Adam recalled.

“And on that tram, we would have a container. We would tap the peas from the pot or string the beans like a typical ethnic family going to the restaurant with fresh produce.

“I started from there. I stayed in the business and continued through.”

Now, Adam has spent more than 45 years in the business, owning and consulting across dozens of venues, with family still closely involved, from administration to front-of-house support.

“My kids are third-generation hospitality, and they participate. On any given night, it’ll be my son or my daughters. They’ll be there,” Adam said.

“But it’s not their profession. I didn’t actually allow them to go into hospitality.

“They’re all very highly educated, and they’re well in their own fields, but they just love coming in and helping out and keeping in touch with the industry and helping their father out.

“There’s always family.”

All for the fun of it

By Violet Li

A fortnightly singing group at Selandra Rise Retirement Village in Clyde North is attracting up to 30 residents, with organisers saying the program is helping boost wellbeing, memory and social connection among seniors.

The group calls itself Singing for Fun, as it doesn’t intend to be a choir, the organisers shared, as they would be too serious.

What began as a simple idea after a Christmas carols night has grown into one of the village’s most popular activities, drawing between 25 and 30 residents aged from their 70s to early 90s, about 10 per cent of the population of the village.

“In 2024, at the Christmas carols here, a couple of us saw that there were a lot of people singing along and enjoying it,” organiser Max Brown recalled.

Max, who has lived at Selandra Rise for eight years and has no formal musical background, helped form the group alongside fellow residents Tony Hughes, Jill Bingham, Hayden Bingham and others they call the “backstage crew”.

Together, they plan sessions, select songs, organise lyrics and keep the atmosphere relaxed and welcoming.

“We’re not really there to be a serious choir. Otherwise, it will destroy the whole spirit of it,” Tony said.

Songs range from The Seekers and Dean Martin to pop classics and old favourites that many residents grew up with.

Lyrics are printed in large fonts, music is played, and the group sings along together, guided by timing rather than strict conducting.

At the session attended by Star News, the group sang classics including Beyond the Sea, Botany Bay, Morningtown Ride and Hello Mary Lou.

The atmosphere was calm and peaceful, with residents following along attentively from black-covered lyric booklets, some seated, others standing, all focused on the music.

“We look up the songs, and if we think it’s at a level we can all sing at, then we select that singer and get it out,” Jill, who claimed to be the person who turns the music on, said.

For many members, the benefits go far beyond music.

“There are probably half a dozen people here who are in different stages of memory and materiality. And that has really brought them out,” Max said.

“They’re involved in the scene and enjoying

the scene. And quite often, it’s time to go home, and they want to keep going.”

Selandra Rise wellbeing and activities coordinator Michelle Baxter-Hanna has seen the impact firsthand.

She said the group has become a source of purpose and connection, particularly for residents who might otherwise isolate themselves.

“They had this vision that they wanted to bring a group together, to bring the community together within here and help people,” she said.

“A lot of people isolate themselves. They may have dementia, things like that, but they didn’t want it to be called a choir. They just wanted to have a bit of fun.

“They’ve just gone leaps and bounds. They’ve gone from a couple of people having this thought to recruiting people, and every time it’s growing and growing and growing.”

Michelle said she gets really overwhelmed watching the seniors sing together because a lot of the songs they sing are what her grandpa used to sing to her.

“Like just before, the alphabet song, my pop used to sing that to us kids all the time. It brings back a lot of memories,” she said.

“There are so many positives out of this group.

“It keeps them very calm, and it keeps the cognitive working as well because of remembering the songs. Or in some cases, it’s bringing people’s memories back, so they remember the old songs.”

Singing for Fun meets at 2.30pm on the first

and third Wednesdays at the village’s clubhouse.

The following are what group members say about their decision to be a part of Singing for Fun:

“I’ve been suffering with anxiety for a few weeks, and then when they started this up, it’s the best thing I ever done,” Julie said.

“I joined because I can’t really sing well, but the operative word for me was for fun. I thought it sounded like a good group too, and I love it,” Joy said.

“I have been in choirs. It gets people out. But

also, it’s been proven. I’ve done studies on them. It’s very good for people with dementia,” Ian said.

“I came because if you’ve got music in your life, you’re always happy,” Jo said.

“This is my second Singing for Fun group. Today’s my first day at this group, and the original reason for me starting the group was that I was diagnosed with COPD, which is a progressive lung condition, so I wanted to do it to strengthen the lungs. But also, it’s good for my soul. I’ve always just loved every type of music. That’s why I’m here,” another Julie said.

MPs pay tribute to victims

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Isaacs Labor MP Mark Dreyfus has paid a moving tribute in Federal Parliament to 15 victims of last year’s Bondi shooting attack.

On 19 January, Mr Dreyfus was among scores of MPs speaking to a condolence motion. It preceded controversial gun law and ‘hate speech’ reforms being passed in response to the Bondi atrocity.

House of Representatives MPs stood in silence as Mr Dreyfus, of Jewish faith and wearing a blue-and-white kippah, closed his speech with a Mourners’ Kaddish prayer signifying “life, dignity and hope for peace at times of profound loss”.

“You don’t have to be Jewish to feel this in your chest,” he said.

“An attack like this hurts all of us.”

The attack occurred at a Hanukkah celebration by families, children and elders, a gathering of “joy, tradition and community” that had been “shattered by hate”, he said.

He named the victims - “each one was a life full of meaning” - and paid tribute to the “acts of extraordinary courage” by “strangers helping strangers”.

“In minutes, a targeted atrocity against Jewish Australians turned a celebration of light into a moment of darkness.

“Yet, even then, humanity’s most selfless instincts of mutual care emerged, instincts that hold communities together in their most distressing moments.”

He urged that Australians, regardless of faith and background, deserved to live in safety, dignity and peace.

“It was also an attack on the kind of country we strive to be: one that is fair, safe and inclusive. We must not, and we will not, allow those values to be diminished.

“I’m seeing Australians come together not only in grief but in determination—determination to reject hate and to act with unity and care, the values that unite us as a nation.”

La Trobe Liberal MP Jason Wood, a former

police officer, paid tribute also to the first responders who put their “lives on the line”.

He said it really hit home when as a Government MP he saw armed guards at Jewish synagogues, community centres and schools.

“I couldn’t believe the stress those from the Jewish community had back then. Now it’s to a new level.

“We must do everything we can do now to protect our Jewish community.

“They should be able to walk the streets freely, go to school freely, go to community events freely.”

Hotham Labor MP and Minister Clare O’Neil said Hannukah had been formerly celebrated in her electorate with rides, food and delighted children in Packer Park.

But since Bondi, the event was held in a “tiny community hall which was heavily patrolled by Australian Federal Police”.

“This is not the promise of multiculturalism in our country being fulfilled.

“We need to tackle the causes of it, and I

hope that we are able to do it together.”

She described Hotham’s Jewish community “fill what is such a dark, dark space with love and light, singing together, praying together and choosing connection over fear”.

Bruce Labor MP and Minister Julian Hill said the “worst ever terrorist attack on Australian soil was designed to spread fear and division, with maximum impact at the iconic Bondi Beach”.

“A toxic mix of antisemitism and ISIS inspired violent extremism fuelled this attack.”

Mr Hill described social cohesion as how we live well together, treat one another, debate differences and share a sense of fairness.

“Terrorists seek to spread fear and divide us so that we turn on each other. We mustn’t let them prevail.”

Holt MP Cassandra Fernando said the Jewish community came to Australia like so many others for safety.

“Hatred has no excuse. Violence has no justification. We must do better. We must be better.

“We must do better.”

Police ‘stonewalling’ delays CFMEU threats case

By Emily Woods, AAP

Lawyers for a CFMEU organiser accused of making threats have said Victoria Police is refusing to help it reach former chief commissioner Shane Patton.

The CFMEU’s former Indigenous organiser, Joel Shackleton, faced Melbourne Magistrates Court in person on Tuesday 27 January.

He was charged in 2024 over allegations he made threats to kill or inflict injury upon two labour hire company owners.

Shackleton is charged with four offences for allegedly making the threats at Berwick on March 16, 2022.

His barrister Lee Ristivojevic asked for a hearing scheduled for later this week to be vacated as defence lawyers were struggling to summons former chief police commissioner Shane Patton through Victoria Police.

Mr Patton resigned as chief commissioner in February 2025. She said defence were seeking to call Mr Patton as a witness as he was involved in the investigation and they were also seeking copies of any notes he made at the time.

Victoria Police’s subpoena management unit had advised they would not be able to serve Mr Patton and defence may now need to engage its own process servers to locate the former police chief, she said.

“It’s very unusual Your Honour, we’re trying to troubleshoot the stonewalling and lack of assistance from the current chief commissioner to serve a summons on a former chief commissioner,” Ms Ristivojevic told the court.

She said she had never experienced resistance previously, including when she was involved in underworld figure Tony Mokbel’s case and received no resistance from police in helping her serve subpoenas on other former officers.

“Why Mr Shackleton’s case is being treated differently, I am not sure,” the barrister said.

“There is complete silence from the chief commissioner’s subpoena management unit

about why they are not assisting in serving that witness summons upon Mr Patton.”

Ms Ristivojevic said defence needed time to engage its own process server to find previous legal representatives Mr Patton had engaged, or to investigate where he is living for personal service of the summons.

Prosecutor Melissa Mahady said she had inquired to help with service, but “those inquiries have shown that we are unable to assist”.

The matter was adjourned for a special mention and this week’s contested hearing dates were vacated.

Shackleton, who is on bail, will return to court on April 14.

New citizens embraced

Dozens of Casey’s newest citizens were welcomed in a citizenship ceremony at Bunjil Place on 26 January.

There were 200 recipients beaming with pride and joy as they pledged allegiance and waved Australian flags on Australia Day.

Casey mayor Stefan Koomen was among rows of MPs and councillors who welcomed “our newest citizens”.

“Casey is a city shaped by people from many cultures and backgrounds, and we are stronger because of that diversity.

“When you become an Australian citizen in Casey, you’re not just joining a city—you’re joining a welcoming community that values inclusion, respect and connection.”

Other speakers included Narre Warren North MP Belinda Wilson and 2025 Casey Citizen of the Year joint-winner Toni Arfaras.

Casey Woman of the Year awardee Chanchal Kumavat, MPs Cassandra Fernando, Brad Battin, Renee Heath and Pauline Richards, deputy mayor Michelle Crowther, councillors Kim Ross, Gary Rowe and Anthony Walter also attended.

NEWS Hundreds out for Aus Day

By Violet Li

Hundreds of Hampton Park and the surrounding residents turned out to celebrate Australia Day in a family-friendly atmosphere at Hampton Park Progress Association’s annual community event at Arthur Wren Hall.

Running from 10am to about 1pm, the celebration transformed the area around the hall into a lively hub of activity.

Outside, families queued for free face painting and temporary tattoos, while children darted between activity tables.

A free sausage sizzle, run by Hampton Park Fire Brigade, proved a popular stop, alongside complimentary coffee that kept the crowd fuelled throughout the morning.

Inside Arthur Wren Hall, the mood shifted into a cheerful mix of colour, music and movement.

Local stallholders set up a small community

market, while another section of the hall became an informal dance space.

Locals of all ages joined in, singing along and dancing freely as upbeat classics like Twistin’ the Night Away played.

Hampton Park Progress Association committee member Damien Rosario said it was a great vibe.

“We have a lot of very happy people, families coming in and having a great time together. This is about bringing community and uniting people,” he said.

“We make it free for everybody as well.

“Every year we run this, and we do it at no cost to the community, because we recognise that times are tough, and this is our gift to the community from our association.”

Volunteer Anthony Hanna said it was a great team effort to put the day together.

Drumming, dancing and community dialogue

By Jensy Callimootoo

As the sun beamed and the heat began to rise in the late morning of January 26, Bunurong Senior Elder, Uncle Mark Brown commenced a moving Welcome to Country at Hallam Recreation Reserve Hall.

“As we gather here today, we recognise this ceremony as part of our shared journey of reconciliation,” said Uncle Mark.

“And a shared understanding and acknowledging that encompasses the deep ritual heritage of the Bunurong people of the Kulin Nations.

“We strive to foster mutual respect, cultural exchange and the celebration of diversity.”

The event, marking Australia Day was hosted by Future Drumming Percussion Band, a relatively new and dynamic youth drumming group, with over 100 people from the community attending.

Linda, an organiser of the event, said that the group was looking forward to bringing many communities together on the national holiday.

Indigenous musician, Ganga Giri, performed the didgeridoo alongside leading cultural storyteller and presenter, Gumaroy Newman.

Ahead of his song, Come Together, Ganga Giri acknowledged those in attendance, emphasising the impact of community.

“I’d like to acknowledge each and every one of you here today, because we make up Australia.

“We are on this journey together to care for the country.”

Also in attendance were local MPs, including Belinda Wilson and Lee Tarlamis.

With the Welcome to Country kicking the event off, attendees were able to sit, watch and look on as the multicultural drumming parade began.

From the pounding drummer performance to the cultural dancing, including a traditional Egyptian belly dance, traditional Latin dance and a musical dialogue of piano and flute.

Much like the words that Uncle Mark championed at the beginning of the event as talented

performers

day.

Discover the last frontier

By Lee McCarthy

Discover the ‘White Continent’, fabulous Antarctica and sail with Viking’s Antarctic Explorer voyage for thirteen magnificent days.

Journey to the stunning Antarctic Peninsula, a landscape defined by blue-hued icebergs, immense glaciers and snow-covered shores.

Walk in the footsteps of great explorers and venture into the world’s last truly wild frontier and participate in meaningful science on board Viking’s state-of-the-art expedition vessel.

Each day can bring unexpected wonders as guests embrace the ever-changing Antarctic weather as the ship sails pristine waters in search of epic wildlife.

The embarkation city, Ushuaia is the southernmost city in the world. Its splendid setting, tucked between the Beagle Channel and the southernmost slopes of the Andes, lends it an outpost atmosphere, as do the Antarctic explorers readying for the expeditions that depart from here.

Purpose-built for expeditions, Viking’s ships provide superior handling, comfort and stability even in the roughest seas.

Just some of the extra benefits guests receive on joining a Viking cruise include 24 hour room service, king size bed with luxury linens and pillow, floor to ceiling heated drying closets for expedition gear, heated bathroom floor with spacious glass enclosed shower, anti-fog mirrors, premium Freyja toiletries, free Wi-Fi connection, 110/220 volt outlets & USB ports, 24-hour specialty coffees, teas and bottled water, beer, wine and soft drinks with onboard lunch and dinner, complimentary access to The Nordic Spa & Fitness Centre, self-service launderettes.

All this and much more including a Viking

Expedition Kit with a variety of equipment to explore at no extra charge, all Viking excursion gear needed for any relevant excursions and one complimentary landing or shore excursion in every port of call

A fleet of military pro zodiacs, Special Operations Boats, two-seater kayaks and two yellow submarines enhance traveller’s experience, and all the inclusions ensure guests make the most of their expedition without having to keep paying extra.

Antarctica has inspired explorers and adventurers for centuries. In this icy wilderness, guests will marvel at icebergs glimmering in serene bays and mountains cloaked in white rising from the

mainland basalt cliffs.

These stunning landscapes evoke both utter tranquillity as Weddell seals lounge on ice floes, and breathtaking drama as glaciers thunderously calve into the sea.

In these cold and nutrient-rich waters, humpback, fin and minke whales have been known to greet expedition ships that venture into their habitat.

As with all Viking ships, the expedition vessel doubles as a classroom in which travellers can learn more about the next destination by joining the Viking ‘Resident Scientist’ for lunch on board before heading back out to explore.

Guests can choose to get explore with dedi-

cated experts in their field or relax and enjoy from the comfort of the ship. Those who choose to stay onboard can relax amid the luxurious and beautiful appointed surroundings in comfort, with heated couches and lava rock ‘firepits,’ allowing guests to enjoy the outdoors no matter the temperature.

On offer right now and for those who book before 31 March is Vikings “Fly free, flight upgrade credit or save up to $2,500 per couple.” The cruise is priced from $19,795 per person in a Deluxe Nordic Balcony.

For further information please contact Viking on 138 747 or Viking.com.

EXPLORE THE WONDERS OF ADELAIDE & KANGAROO ISLAND ON FULLY ESCORTED TOURS

Full-Board River Cruise

3 night Murray River cruise on board PS Murray Princess with all meals and sightseeing

Tour of Murray River Bridge and historic Roundhouse

Guided nature walk of Salt Bush Flat

Taste Riverland food and wine

Dragon-Fly flat-bottomed boat wildlife tour

Hotel Stays

3 nights four-star hotel stay in Adelaide with breakfast

1 night four-star hotel stay in Kangaroo Island with breakfast, lunch and dinner

Fully Escorted

Barossa Valley Tours

Full day Barossa Valley tour with lunch and wine tastings including:

Saltram wine estate, lunch and wine tasting at Lambert Estate, visit to Barossa Valley Chocolate Company, photo stop at Menglers Hill Lookout, vineyard tour & wine tasting at Jacob’s Creek visitor centre, stop at Beerenberg Farm, and free time in Hahndorf to explore the historic German settlement

Fully Escorted Kangaroo Island Tours

2 day Kangaroo Island tour including: Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery, Clifford’s Honey Farm, In-Flight Birds of Prey Display at Raptor Domain, Seal Bay Conservation Park guided beach walk, lunch at Emu Bay Lavender Farm, Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park, and Flinders Chase National Park All Flights, Taxes & Transfers

Bergen

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in Veranda Stateroom From $32,295pp in Penthouse Veranda

ICONS OF THE VIKING AGE

Bergen to Copenhagen or vice versa

22 DAYS • 8 COUNTRIES • 17 GUIDED TOURS SET SAIL • MAY-AUG 2028

From $21,495pp in Veranda Stateroom

From $26,295pp in Penthouse Veranda

BRITISH ISLES & IRELAND

Belfast to London or vice versa

15 DAYS • 4 COUNTRIES • 13 GUIDED TOURS SET SAIL • APR-MAY, JUL-SEP 2027; APR-SEP 2028

From $13,295pp in Veranda Stateroom From $15,795pp in Penthouse Veranda

*Choose one offer per booking (all guests must select the same): Companion Fly Free (Economy) up to AU$2,500 per couple (code CFE25) OR Business Class Air Credit AU$2,500 per couple (CFB25) OR Cruise-Only Save AU$2,500 per couple (CRX25). Valid on selected 2026–2028 Viking Ocean voyages. New bookings only, prices in AUD per person (twin share), subject to availability, not combinable. Greenland, Iceland, Norway & Beyond based on 28 June 2028 departure. Icons of the Viking Age based on 11 May 2028 departure. British Isles & Ireland based on 17 April 2028 departure. Booking window: 02 Dec 2025 – 31 Mar 2026 (AEDT). Full T&Cs: viking.com.

WHAT’S ON

Visible mending workshop

Workshop on visible mending methods, caring for clothing instead of throwing it away. Fixing woollen clothing, stretchy clothing, and woven clothing (jeans are ideal). Bring your own moth-chomped or ripped items to give them new life. Light refreshments provided.

• Friday 30 Jan 9.30am-12.00pm at Good Food Emporium, Unit 15/430-440 Princes Hwy, Narre Warren; free event. Bookings: events.humanitix. com/visible-mending-workshop-30-1

Twilight tucker & tunes

Live music from kids entertainers to relaxed acoustic, with a variety of food trucks and the cafe. Rabbit nursery, tractor rides, temporary tattoos, paddock feed trail, playground.

• Friday 30 January 5pm-9pm at Myuna Farm, 182 Kidds Road, Doveton; $6pp or $20 per group of 4 people (Babies under 12 months are free). Bookings: trybooking.com/DGVGL

Afghan Culture Day

Camel rides, live music and attan, Afghan cameleers photo display and market stalls. Presented by Afghan Youth Association and Afgan Cultural Society.

• Saturday 31 January 1pm-8pm at Dandenong Park, 174 Lonsdale Street Dandenong; free event. Details: afghanculturalevent@gmail.com

CaseyGirlsCan Tennis at Hampton Park

Free, coached beginner tennis sessions for Casey women, no prior skills or knowledge of tennis required. Follows the Cardio Tennis format. Part of City of Casey’s Summer of Tennis.

• Thursdays until 12 February, 6pm-7pm at Hampton Park Tennis Club, 101 Somerville Road (Robert Booth Reserve); free event. Bookings: trybooking.com/DHXWA

Dads and Kids Tennis

Casey dads, grandads or father figures and their kids are invited to join us for free, coached tennis sessions. No prior skills or knowledge of tennis required. All equipment included but if you have your own racquet, please bring it with you. Spaces are limited to one adult and one child per booking.

• Tuesdays until 10 February, 6pm-7pm at Hampton Park Tennis Club, 101 Somerville Road (Robert Booth Reserve); free event. Bookings: trybooking.com/DIBPB

Lakeside Paddle Boats

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

• Daily until Saturday 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

CaseyGirlsCan Tennis at Doveton Free, coached beginner tennis sessions for Casey women, no prior skills or knowledge of tennis required. Follows the Cardio Tennis format. Part of City of Casey’s Summer of Tennis. ll equipment included but if you have your own racquet, please bring it with you.

• Mondays 2 February - 23 February 10am11am at Doveton Tennis Club, Oak Avenue (Robinson Reserve). Bookings: trybooking.com/DIFFV Rock in the outdoors

Two powerhouses of Australian rock Kutcha and Cash Savage & The Last Drinks in a unique collaboration. Supported by Canisha. Part of a free sixweek outdoor event Open Space at Bunjil Place.

• Saturday 7 February 6pm at Bunjil Place; free event. Details: bunjilplace.com.au

Wiser Driver Program

Free four-week Wiser Driver Education Program for seniors 55-plus. Would you like to refresh your knowledge of the Road Rules and discuss Road Safety issues with other experienced drivers? This course aims to improve your confidence, independence and road safety skills. Participants must attend over all four days.

• Mondays 9 February-2 March 12.30pm2.30pm at Timbarra Community Centre, 27 Parkhill Dr, Berwick; free event. Bookings essential at trybooking.com/DFOUT

Coastal Villages dads group: Footy Day

For all dads, grandfathers, father figures and their children. Bring your children and have a kick with them, learning footy skills with a coach. The Coastal Villages Dads’ Group is led by local fathers for local fathers.

• Saturday 14 February 9am-11am at Warneet Recreation Reserve; free event.

Valentines Day in the Park

Grab your picnic rug and join us for an evening

filled with live music from Berwick and District Folk Club (BadFolk), sausage sizzle, dessert truck or BYO picnic.

• Saturday 14 February 5pm-9 pm at Lakeside Lawn, Wilson Botanic Park, Berwick; free event

Spiders of Paradise

Maria Fernanda Cardoso: Spiders of Paradise exhibition highlights the natural beauty and wonder of the Australian Maratus spider.

• until 22 February at Bunjil Place; free event.

U3A Cranbourne

Three new classes for 2026 - mosaics with talented artist Tony Shannon (Tuesdays 12pm), beginner Italian with tutor Jan (Wednesdays 10am12pm) and Italian study group with tutor Jan (Thursdays 12.30pm-2.30pm). New members over 50 welcome. Our membership fee is $55 per annum and you can join in as many classes as you wish. Details: u3acranbourne.org.au

Free Pickleball

All equipment supplied.

• Mondays 5.30pm-6.30pm and Wednesdays 10am-11am at Olive Road sporting complex, Eumemmerring; free event. Bookings via trybooking.com

Casual pickleball

Just turn up early to secure your place. All equipment supplied.

• Fridays 10am-11.30am and Sundays 9am10am at Olive Road sporting complex, Eumemmerring. All equipment supplied, $5.40 per session.

Weekly badminton

Adults welcome (Mondays 7pm-9pm) and ladies and retired (Wednesdays 12pm-2.30pm).

• Hallam Badminton Club, Frawley Road Recreation Reserve; $5.

Meditation and positive thinking

Learn how to make your mind your best friend through open-eyed meditation. Led by Bhavani Padmanabhan, these free sessions are open to all. Presented by Bakhtar Community Organisation and The Brahma Kumaris Organisation.

• Saturdays 2pm at 23-47 Gunns Road, Hallam. Registrations: 9703 2555 or 0403 551 596.

DnD at Orana

Dungeons and Dragons (DnD) is an inclusive tabletop, fantasy, role-playing game.

• Second Saturday of each month, 1pm-9pm at Orana Community Place, 16/18 Playwright St, Clyde North. Details: Jonathan Whelan, thestoryweaver.dnd@gmail.com

Chair dancing

Would you enjoy exercising from the comfort of your chair? Includes fun and uplifting songs and different styles and eras of music

• Wednesdays 10.45am-11.30am on Wednesdays at Timbarra Community Centre; $8 per session. Details: admin@berwicknc.com.au or 9704 1863.

BADFolk Club

Berwick and District Folk Club meets on the third Friday of each month.

• Doors open at 6.30pm, with the music running from 7pm to 10pm with entry $15. Details: badfolkclub.org or Edward, 0418 535 264. Berwick Springs VIEW Club

Affiliated with The Smith Family, the not-for-profit organisation raises funds for 10 Learning for Life students to assist with education expenses. Monthly lunches with a guest speaker, as well as casual morning tea and lunch for interested ladies.

• First Monday of each month, 11.15am at Berwick Springs Hotel function room. Details: Shirley, 0438 191 759 or berwicksprings.viewclub@ gmail.com

Combined Probus Club of Narre Warren

The club welcomes men and women for bowling, armchair travel, book clubs, walk and talk, happy snappers and cards.

• Details: Heather, hsims14@gmail.com

Casey Cardinia Life Activities Club

Weekly social activities with dancing, trips away via coach, a weekly morning coffee club, monthly Saturday country pub lunches, monthly Tuesday dine-outs, a weekly walking group, a weekly table tennis group, seasonal daytime musical theatre outings, entertainment function days and more.

• Thursdays 2pm for socialising and low-key dancing at Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House at 21A Bemersyde Drive or Wednesdays 10am for coffee and chats at the new François cafe in front of Myer in Fountain Gate. Details: Gloria, 0468 363 616.

Ageing star now Bulletproof

By David Nagel

Local trainer Scott Ewen can’t wait to test his best against some of the biggest measuring sticks in Australian harness racing when Bulletproof Boy lines up for his fifth-consecutive Cranbourne Cup on Saturday night.

After a $50,000 boost in prizemoney, this year’s $150,000 edition carries coveted Group 1 status and has attracted some of the best pacers in the land.

Last week’s Ballarat Cup winner and reigning Cranbourne Cup champion Leap To Fame headlines a quality field that includes high-class performers such as Kingman and Swayzee.

Bulletproof Boy had a tough run when defending his crown at Ballarat last week; two weeks after making it back-to-back Bendigo Cups.

The 11-year-old bay gelding - Art Official/My Riviera Girl - stopped the clock in a winning mile rate of 1:51.2 at Bendigo; just a fraction outside the best of his career.

Ewen, who bred the horse in his South Australian days back in 2014 - after also training his mother - believes his stable star is going as good as he ever has since making the switch to Cranbourne in 2019.

“He struggled over here at first, won a few races here and there, but once he worked out how

to handle their speed and what they did, he improved greatly,” Ewen said.

“I’ve always said he’s like a good footballer… they rise to the occasion.

“He won’t go great the first time you put him against those really good ones, but once he races them a few times he starts to lift and trying harder.

“We don’t know why he’s like that…he’s a freak.”

Bulletproof Boy is the definition of a warhorse, winning 51 of his 224 starts and running a drum in 52 others.

He has amassed over $850,000, a total that will swell to the $1m mark if things go according to plan.

“To be honest, he’s going better than ever,” Ewen explained.

“In the Victoria Cup a couple of years back, we sat on the back of Leap To Fame and he pulled out at the top of the straight and he wanted to match him.

“I thought, ‘your keen, pulling out on the best horse in the land’.

“He got to his wheel and couldn’t quite match him; but now he goes past them.

“He’s definitely got better and popping James (Herbertson) on has been a big part of that, he’s a freak as well.

“When you get a good connection with a horse and driver I think they just go better.

“I had a great connection with him; but it’s been great to watch James develop that with him as well.”

Ewen said he could see no reason why Bulletproof Boy could not race on for at least another campaign.

“He’s still got at least another good season in him,” he said.

“A horse could be going good as a four-yearold and do an injury, there’s no guarantee.

“But the way he’s going at the minute, the way his legs are, he’s not overly big, so he’s not hard on himself…he could go for another two seasons easy.

“He’s never had a soreness problem since I’ve had him.”

Success in Saturday night’s feature would mean the world to a lot of people.

“It would be great to win the hometown cup and great for the club as well if we could do it,” Ewen said.

“It’s a Group 1 this year, they’ve put the extra $50k on it, so that’s great as well.

“He was going well last year, he won at Ballarat and Bendigo, but then got scratched from the

Hunter Cup after kicking out and pulling the skin off his hock.

“It blew up like a balloon; he went to the Cranbourne Cup, but probably shouldn’t have and James said he wasn’t himself that night.

“He wasn’t far away but he should have gone better.

“The only horse he hasn’t beat is Swayzee and I don’t think he’s any better than the other two.

“I just need a draw, simple as that, if he gets a draw and gets in behind them…he’ll run a huge race for sure.”

Ewen is already looking one step ahead, targeting the $1m Miracle Mile Series at Menangle, which concludes with the final on March 14.

“Even before he won those two good races, I’ve always said we want to go back to the Miracle Mile,” he said.

“He ran fourth in the heat last year, was second emergency, drew barrier one but didn’t get a run in the final.

“It would have been great to get a run from that draw, but he went to the backup race and ran second.

“He’s going better and I’d love to have another crack at that race…that’s the aim.”

Jigsaw complete as Alderson and Bates claim Group 1

By David Nagel

A missing piece fell into place for Cranbournetrainer Cindy Alderson on Saturday when her seven-year-old gelding Jigsaw gave her an emotional victory in the Group 1 Railway Stakes (1200m) at Ellerslie.

The trip across the ditch could not have gone better for Alderson, who not only joined her father Colin as a Group 1 winning trainer, but gave her stable jockey Logan Bates his first taste of success at the highest level on his return to his homeland.

Jigsaw sat outside race favourite Alabama Lass as the field swung for home, with Bates taking the lead at the 300 and dashing clear for victory.

Arkansaw Kid made it an Australian one-two, with Sweynesday running on for third place.

“I don’t think you can get any better really,” Alderson said, as Bates and Jigsaw returned to the winners’ enclosure.

“With a horse that I bred, has been in my stable right from the start, so many people know him. “Logan, I don’t even think he was riding when the horse started racing.

“To have this opportunity to come here on his home turf, and pull it off, with his mum and dad here, his brother, I mean, it doesn’t get much better than that.

“It’s been a massive team effort, couldn’t have done it without all the support of all the people that are around me.”

Alderson said she had every faith that Bates

had what it took to pull off the biggest win of his career.

“I left it with Logan, I mean, I know he’s a claiming apprentice but you just don’t get rides like that very often,” she said.

“What a thrill.

“We dreamt about it, he talked about it the other day, but I’m such a superstitious person.

“That’s just a testament to him, to his confidence in the horse, to the fact that he’s got that ability to make a decision like that.

“It just couldn’t have worked out any better.”

Bates was glowing in his praise of Alderson as he returned to scale.

“It means just everything, I remember before I even started riding, Cindy and I had a conver-

sation and she said one of her greatest achievements would be to see me win a Group 1,” Bates began.

“And the comment at the end was it would be even better if it was in the colours of the Alderson family.

“Cindy, we done it.”

Bates was equally as effusive about Jigsaw, who has now made it four wins in a row after breaking a long drought at Cranbourne in early October.

“What a beautiful horse…you wouldn’t think he’s a seven-year-old gelding, that he would just come back like this and get better and better,” Bates said.

“Every day I rode him going this way (clockwise), and all the work that we done with him, I just grew with confidence.

“The plan was either to lead if it was there or be rolling along at a tempo where he was happy in his rhythm.

“When I gave him a squeeze and he ranged up to Alabama Lass he grew with confidence and gave me an unbelievable kick.

“There are so many people to thank; I’ve got mum and dad here, my partner, my good mate Jake; to do it for Cindy is just unreal.

“It was almost like it was meant to be.

“You come back to where I grew up in New Zealand, even his mother was from New Zealand; just coming here and racing on one of the best days here and taking out one of their biggest Group 1’s, The Railway, it’s just incredible.”

Early birds miss the worm

CRANBOURNE BOWLS

The sound of alarm clocks beeping could be heard a little earlier around Cranbourne on Saturday with Pennant matches beginning at 10am to combat the extreme heat being forecast for the day.

Instructions from Bowls Victoria were to start early unless other arrangements had been made.

The Division 4 game between Cranbourne 3 and Dandenong Club 4 - which would have been a very good game - was abandoned due to the heat policy with both teams sharing the points with nine each.

Cranbourne 1 Div 1 took on Mentone Edge 1 at home on the front grass green.

Cranbourne’s best rink was skipped by Lyn Quigg, third Ron (Two Dogs) Lyfield, second Peter Elgar and Lead Wayne (Spanky) Stevens who had a ding-dong battle with their opponents.

However, the lads won the last two ends to edge in front, winning 23-20.

Next best was the rink of Skip Jay Tootell, third Matt (SOS) Stevens, second Stephen Arms and Lead Joe Byrne who just couldn’t bridge the gap, with scoring ends of mainly one.

The result, saw Cranbourne 1 go down by nine shots, 13-22.

The team skipped by Chris (Chewy) Hunt, third Gerry Schryver, second Kirsty Tootell and Lead Dale Henry did play well, but gave away a six, four and three which was basically the difference in the end, going down 12-27.

The fourth rink, skipped by Scott Guymer, third Gavin Wright, second Chadd Tootell and Lead Barry McKay battled hard with again the difference being three or four multiple ends.

Guymer’s rink went down 14-29.

· Cranbourne 1 Div 1 (62) def by Mentone Edge 1 (98) -36 shots/2 points.

Cranbourne 2 Div 2 travelled to Berwick to take on their number-one team on the front grass green. Best rink for Cranbourne was skipped by Tony Collins, third Phil Nielsen, second Bill Sherriff and Lead Vic Butera who pushed the great team of Geoff and Tom Van Vught, Charlie Azzopardi and John Harwood to their lowest rink win all season.

The Berwick rink won 20-17 with their previous lowest score against them being 10 shots.

The game was very well played as well as being played in great spirit.

Next best rink was skipped by Hans Worsteling, third Chris Stevenson, second Barry Thomas and Lead Barry Graham who went down 19-23.

Next was the rink of Skip Shane Jakins, third Robert Bernardo, second John Stanley and Lead Brian Turton who fell behind early but kept at it and fought back to only go down by six…14-20 in the end. The rink skipped by Nick Arnold, third Karen Hickson, second Louis Magri and Lead Dennis Tomlin were down 3-15 at one stage, but kept at it scoring two good multiples to get back in the game.

The Berwick team they played are a quality team and eventually pulled away to win 14-25.

After dropping into Berwick to watch the last six ends; I can report this was a very good game of bowls.

It’s been a tough season for the team, but Saturday looked very promising and the team was highly competitive; very well done to both teams.

· Cranbourne 2 Div 2 (64) def by Berwick 1 (88) -24 shots/0 points.

Cranbourne 3 Div 4 were to travel and take on Dandenong Club 4 but the Heat Policy came into effect and the game was abandoned; the teams sharing the points.

Cranbourne 4 Div 5 played at home on the front synthetic and took on top of the ladder Burden Park 2.

Again, the Cranbourne team tried very hard and can be very proud of their efforts.

They were eventually over powered, but they gave it their all and we congratulate them all.

Best rink for Cranbourne 4 was skipped by Bruce Harper, third Steve Bakker, second Helen Blake and Lead Rod Challis who couldn’t be separated after 21 ends.

They finished 16-16 which was a great effort from the team.

Next best was Skip Harry Van Soest, third Claudio Miotto, second Helen Winter and Lead Olive Stanley who went down 16-26.

We then had the rink skipped by Marijan Bobetic, third Rob Gye, second Davina Bobetic and Lead Elizabeth Hughes who also went down by 10 shots, 12-22.

The team of Skip David McMaster, third Peter Margiannis, second Suzanne Buchan and Lead Jeanne Tomlin put their best foot forward but they were just outplayed going down by 14 shots, 13-27.

· Cranbourne 4 Div 5 (57) def by Burden Park 2 (91) -34 shots/1 point.

We’ll done to all teams for putting in such a great effort considering the warm day.

MIDWEEK PENNANT

Without the support of all midweek players Cranbourne would not be in the position it is right now. About a month back, the midweek selectors had a look at our teams and where we were going and what were we going to do.

The club has three Midweek teams; Cranbourne 1 Div 1, Cranbourne 2 Div 3 and Cranbourne 3 Div 5.

All three teams were heading for relegation and we needed to address the issues and see if there was anything we could do to rectify the slide.

Selectors looked at every possible option; came up with some thoughts and without trying to weaken the C1 and C3 teams endeavoured to strengthen the C2 team in order to avoid relegation. The past three weeks have seen an improvement in teams and positions on the ladder.

On behalf of selectors, thank you C1, C2 and C3 players for assisting and supporting the plan; we now have to continue to hold or improve our position.

Cranbourne 1 Div 1 playing at home of the front grass green, did its very best, but we’re no match for the seasoned Narre Warren 1 team.

Selectors will endeavour to provide the best players possible to support the team in the last part of the season.

Best rink for the day was Skip Chris Stevenson, third Louis Magri, second Karen Hickson and Lead Scott De Piazza who tried hard, but went down 11-23.

The teams skipped by Nick Arnold and Rob Paganoni both had tough days, but there’s always the next week to rebound.

Thanks to Kirsty and Chadd Tootell for helping out the club over the past month, but Chadd must

get back to school and Kirsty back to work.

Thank you to all that helped when the club put out the call; we appreciate your efforts.

· Cranbourne 1 Div 1 (29) def by Narre Warren 1 (74) -45 shots/0 points.

Cranbourne 3 Div 5 travelled to take on Parkdale 3 on their blue synthetic and gave a pretty good effort and can be proud of their performance.

Best rink for the day was skipped by John Kent, third John Anstiss, second Liz Hughes and Lead Helen Blake who had a close game with their opponents, but prevailed to win 18-17.

Next was the team skipped by David McMaster, third Rod Challis, second Peter Margiannis and Lead Rob Gye.

This team was in front for most of the game, but gave away a three and four on the last two ends. Tough luck team, but remember that for next you play them.

· Cranbourne 3 Div 5 (50) def by Parkdale 3 (69) -19 shots/2 points.

Cranbourne 2 Div 3 played at home on the synthetic green and took on Pakenham 2 in a game we were looking forward too and hopefully might win or provide a good showing.

Well, as Skip and writer of this article I could not have been prouder or happier with this team.

All three rinks put in a magnificent effort and we were hoping to get to fifth position with a win. However, this was a day for this team to click and we actually ran away from our Pakenham opponents to win the game by three rinks to nil.

Best rink was skipped by Derek Maguire, third Bill Sherriff, second Steve Bentley and Lead Brian Turton, winning their rink 32-13.

They were followed by Skip Harry VanSoest, third Dermot McConville, second Jacqui Warner and Lead Frank Verco who won 23-11.

The rink skipped by Phil Nielsen, third John Stanley, second Cheryl Wright and Lead Dennis Tomlin won its rink 22-15.

I have to say, from my observations, every team member did something…nobody needed to be carried in a bloody great effort.

With such a good performance Cranbourne

2 is now in fourth position on the ladder, with a greatly-improved points being 90. The team’s percentage increased to 101.39 and the score difference is now positive eight. Keep it going folks and let’s continue to do our best; Go Cranny Midweek!

· Cranbourne 2 Div 3 (77) def Pakenham 2 (39) +38 shots/16 points.