News - Cranbourne Star News - 19th February 2026

Library a hit with locals

Dominic, Edan and Lucas have read the room at Clyde’s new library lounge, and liked what they saw during a family fun day opening on 14 February. The small branch is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm with 24/7 accessible library lockers to collect orders. A full-service branch is being planned as part of a future community hub.

More pictures, turn to page 4 (Stewart Chambers: 534227)

Golf course gone

Casey councillors have unanimously approved a planning permit to redevelop the northern half of the Cranbourne Golf Course into almost 500 homes, repeatedly saying State housing targets and zoning history left them with little room to refuse the development.

The approval came after community opposition over traffic congestion, the loss of green space, the capacity of local infrastructure, and the risk of landfill odour.

About 51 objections were received during the notice period.

At the 17 February Council Meeting, councillors backed the controversial permit for 750 Glasscocks Road, Cranbourne North, with about 121 lots under 300 square metres.

Officers stated the site was already zoned residential 25 years ago and was one of the few remaining locations capable of helping meet Casey’s target of 28,500 established-area homes over 30 years.

Ward Cr Kim Ross acknowledged community

concerns, but said the development was “a key part of us meeting that target”, warning the State could intervene if the Council fell short.

Several councillors expressed unease. Despite this, councillors accepted officer advice that impacts could be managed through conditions and “additional public benefits”, including increased open space and canopy targets.

Casey Residents and Ratepayers Association (CRRA) president Anthony Tassone said residents were worried about what the scale of devel-

opment would mean for “amenity, infrastructure and liveability”.

“Residents understand the need for more housing,” he said.

“What they are asking for is responsible growth, with truly independent evidence assessing the risk, transparent decision-making, and infrastructure and services delivered in step, not after the fact.”

Full story page 2

Golf Course plan approved

By

Li

Casey councillors have unanimously approved a controversial planning permit to turn the northern half of the Cranbourne Golf Course into almost 500 homes, repeatedly claiming during debate that State housing targets and zoning history left them with little room to refuse the proposal.

At the Casey Council February Meeting on Tuesday 17 February, councillors backed a permit allowing up to 499 new dwelling lots at the existing Cranbourne Golf Course at 750 Glasscocks Road in Cranbourne North, subject to conditions. About 121 dwelling lots will be under 300 square metres.

The developer Brown Property Group has envisioned more than 1000 new homes ultimately across the entire golf course, but the application for the southern part has yet to be lodged.

Council officers recommended granting a permit, saying the site was already zoned residential, had no overlays restricting development, and represented one of the few remaining strategic locations capable of delivering a large number of homes toward Casey’s dwelling quota.

Officers also cited “additional public benefits” offered by the developer, such as the “overprovision” of public open space land, which would be 12.4 per cent instead of the minimally required 8 per cent; delivery of Greening Casey policy targets of 30 per cent canopy cover in streets and public open spaces and 20 per cent canopy cover across the subject site through planting of thousands of new canopy trees (with most of the existing 3800 plus trees removed first for the development); a prohibition on artificial grass and encouragement of lighter-roofed, non-reflective roof materials; and a voluntary financial contribution for social infrastructure.

Cr Kim Ross, whose ward contains the golf course, first acknowledged the community’s concerns about increased traffic, increased demand on local infrastructure, including schools, sporting recreation facilities, and maternal health, a lag in connectivity of bus services, a reduction in greenery, the proximity to the Hallam Road landfill and the proposed waste transfer station nearby. However, she pointed to several “really, really important facts” for her decision to support the permit, including the residential zoning history and the State’s housing target quota for each council.

“The State Government has a housing target in established areas for Casey of 28,500 homes over the next 30 years. This redevelopment is a key part of us meeting that target,” she said at the Meeting.

“If we do not meet the target, the State Government has the power and the will to come in and impose their own way of meeting it.

“The 499 dwelling lots go a long way to helping with this target. The size of some of the blocks may sit uncomfortably for some, but this is a no-judgment zone.

“They provide an affordable housing option for many in the community and add to a much-wanted diversity of stock. It’s in this space that good design makes a considerable difference to the livability, regardless of how small or big the block is.”

Cr Ross said she would continue to advocate to the State Government for improved bus services, safer connections with local roads, appro-

priate school provisions, and to the council to identify areas in the surrounding neighbourhood where more intense tree planting and urban heat cover could be implemented, to address pedestrian connectivity with local amenities and to monitor the use and capacity of local amenities.

Cr Lynette Pereira echoed Cr Ross’ sentiment, describing council as “limited and restricted” by the planning framework, despite the “angst” in the community.

She spoke about the subject site’s proximity to the landfill, satisfied with the Council Officers’ recommendation that a reduced buffer distance of 1,000 metres would suffice after they independently peer reviewed the developer-commissioned Qualitative Risk Assessment.

Previously, residents have asked for a quantitative assessment, but there is no evidence that the developer or the council have commissioned it.

Despite the unanimous voting towards the end of the debate, several councillors expressed unease.

Deputy Mayor Cr Michelle Crowther questioned whether the planning system was heading toward “housing at all costs”.

“The Delegate Report states the retention of 55 canopy trees would conflict with the ability to develop the land with dwellings to meet housing needs. This issue has weighed heavily on my mind…” she said at the Meeting.

“Poor tree canopy makes the area hotter, as Cr Ross described before, more expensive to cool, and I feel it often disproportionately impacts our lower-income residents who are living in these higher-density areas. It’s often our most vulnerable community members who are paying the price of these planning choices.”

She also raised concerns about small lot sizes, with some homes proposed on blocks as small as 117 square metres, and she also pointed out that the nearest activity centre is about 800 metres away without an existing bus route.

“The Casey planning scheme requirement of eight per cent open space applies, and this application does exceed that. But beyond this application, perhaps we should be having a conversation about whether these minimum standards in the planning scheme are adequate to protect our future residents’ quality of life and the impacts on their physical and mental health,” she said.

“As others have spoken to, it is a challenge. This proposal does meet the minimum standards in the Casey planning scheme, and this is the framework we must use to make our decision. But perhaps outside this application, we really need to have a conversation about what our community wants for the future.”

Cr Dave Perry said at the Meeting that the permit was hard to support.

“Unfortunately, what we’ve come to understand is our planning system now more than ever takes decisions away from locals who feel they know their area best,” he said.

“There’s a push to build through what’s being framed as a housing crisis in Victoria and Australia. They’ve taken away as much power as possible.

“They gave locals a say on what’s appropriate in their communities. And the State is saying we must build more homes.”

Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen said while community frustration was understandable, the council had achieved the “best possible outcome” with the “additional public benefits”.

“I think it will be a liveable and nice space to live, and we’ve got the best outcome we can, given the circumstances,” he said at the meeting.

Star News previously reported community opposition to the development over traffic congestion, the loss of green space, the capacity of local infrastructure, and the risk of landfill odour. About 51 objections were received during the notice period.

Councillors added three amendments before voting unanimously, requiring social infrastructure contributions to be spent locally, strengthening enforcement of the 30 per cent street and 20 per cent site-wide canopy targets, and mandating stage-by-stage tree protection plans to maximise retention during construction.

Casey Residents and Ratepayers Association (CRRA) president Anthony Tassone said residents were worried about what the scale of development would mean for “amenity, infrastructure and liveability”, arguing council relied on developer-commissioned assessments to justify reduced landfill buffers without seeking independent odour or gas risk testing.

He said the Supreme Court’s finding that nearby landfill operator Veolia breached its environmental duties made independent scrutiny “even more important”, while also criticising the council for not applying the State’s golf course redevelopment guideline of at least 20 per cent public open space.

“Residents understand the need for more housing,” Mr Tassone said.

“What they are asking for is responsible growth, with truly independent evidence assessing the risk, transparent decision-making, and infrastructure and services delivered in step, not after the fact.”

End is nigh for Hallam tip

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

The controversial Hallam Road landfill in Hampton Park will reportedly be closed to municipal waste as soon as 30 June 2027 – but questions linger over what happens next on the site as well as the South East’s future rubbish.

The closure date of the South East’s largest landfill was stated in a recent letter to Casey Council from South Eastern Melbourne Advanced Waste Project chair Mick Cummins.

Landfill operator Veolia - who recently agreed to pay $1 million after unlawful odour emissions at the tip - told Star News that the landfill will be likely filled “sometime circa 2028” based on current rates of waste received.

“Even without a precise date, the critical point is that Hallam Road, the last large landfill in south east Melbourne, is nearing the end of its life,” a Veolia spokesperson said.

“This is a high stakes moment. The next five years are crucial to developing Victoria’s waste infrastructure to meet the needs of the community.

“Melbourne urgently needs new waste and resource recovery infrastructure to avoid a waste crisis and divert as much waste from landfill as possible.

“This is why Veolia has invested in material recovery facilities, advanced food and organic processing sites, transfer stations, soil decontaminating plants, and energy from waste facilities. “

Casey’s sustainability and waste manager Michael Jansen said no specific closure date had been provided to the council but “the 2027 date is not surprising”.

“Veolia have previously indicated via community updates that the final cell (cell 16) will be constructed by mid-2026.

“In published minutes of the Community Reference Group, Veolia estimated that this final cell would last in the order of 12 months.”

With the tip’s expiry looming, SEMAWP’s nine South East councils, including Casey, have

agreed to supply rubbish to a waste-to-energy incinerator in Maryvale.

The councils are locked into a “minimum tonnage” supply contract with an energy consortium including Veolia, diverting at least 95 per cent of household rubbish from landfill to the WTE plant for 25 years.

As part of the plan, about 550,000 tonnes of municipal residual waste, construction and demolition waste, and commercial and industrial waste would be taken to Veolia’s proposed transfer station at the Hallam Road site.

The waste would be then bulk transferred to

Maryvale, which SEMWAP has stated won’t start operating until 2029-’30.

Mr Jansen said in the meantime, the council was“currentlyworkingtosecurealternativewaste disposal options” for the period between Hallam Road landfill’s closure and Maryvale WTE’s start.

The proposed Hampton Park transfer station’s future is also subject to a VCAT appeal launched by proponent Veolia.

After being approved by Casey administrators in 2024, it was rejected by the Environment Protection Authority due to “unacceptable” risks to human health due to noise and odour emissions

and the proximity of neighbouring homes.

In a report tabled on 17 February, Casey officers listed key drivers for the project - the nearcapacity of Hallam Road landfill, population growth, rising waste levies and landfill being at the “bottom of the waste hierarchy”.

As well as being more socially and environmentally friendly than landfill, waste-to-energy was the lowest-cost advanced-waste alternative the report stated.

It was equal in environmental and social benefits to options such as mechanical biological treatment with gasification/combustion.

Community Market Day

Mark your calendars – Summerset Cranbourne North’s Community Market Day is back!

Join us for a fun-filled day of shopping, entertainment and good vibes.

Browse a range of stalls, featuring:

• Gorgeous jewellery

• Beautiful plants

• Unique arts & crafts

• FREE coffee

• FREE sausage sizzle

• FREE ice cream

Enjoy live entertainment from a band while you eat - the perfect soundtrack to a wonderful day.

Whether you’re looking to shop, eat, or just soak up the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone.

Entry is FREE, so gather your friends and family and join us for an unforgettable day!

Community Market Day

Saturday 14 March, 10am to 2pm

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

New Library Lounge opens

The Clyde Township Community Centre is now home to a new Library Lounge, providing residents in Clyde and surrounding areas access to library collections, 24/7 library lockers and programming.

City of Casey Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen and Casey Councillors joined Connected Libraries CEO Beth Luppino at a Family Fun Day on Saturday 14 February to celebrate the library opening.

Local families enjoyed free face painting, interactive library activities, roving entertainment, a magic show, a sausage sizzle and giveaways.

The Library Lounge, which is a small library branch, was funded by the Council and will be operated by Connected Libraries.

The Lounge will remain in place until a full-service library branch is developed as part of a proposed community hub in the Clyde area in the coming years.

Cr Koomen said: “The Clyde Township Library Lounge is an innovative and cost-effective solution to ensure the Clyde community has access to library services. This is a welcoming and safe space where residents can read, learn, connect and build relationships that strengthen

our community.

“The new space is ideally positioned to support Storytime and Baby Rhyme Time sessions, as well as other programs, such as Tech Time and Crafty @ Clyde. There is a range of children’s collections, as well as a selection of materials for adult readers.”

Ms Luppino said: “Accessible library spaces at the heart of our communities are essential. It’s crucial that people don’t have to travel far to access their local library, and the new Clyde Library Lounge ensures the community can connect with library services, including 24/7 Li-

brary Lockers close to home.

“Being co-located with the kindergarten gives us a wonderful opportunity to engage local families and support children to get the best possible start with reading and learning.

“This new lounge will link the Clyde community to free library collections, events and programs, as well as essential information services including internet access and public computers.”

Located at 45 Valetta Street in Clyde, the Library Lounge is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, and the library lockers are available 24/7 to collect holds and return items.

Gambling reform push

By Jensy Callimootoo

The City of Casey has unanimously voted to submit a notice of motion to Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV), calling on the State Government to consider reforms to reduce impacts of gambling harm.

Through MAV, Casey will be calling on the Victorian Government to introduce reforms aimed at reducing the impact of gambling harm, particularly from Electronic Gaming Machines (EGMs), such as poker machines and slot machines.

The motion asks the MAV to advocate for limits on the transfer or introduction of EGMs in disadvantaged or potentially disadvantaged areas; greater transparency of the State Government’s

Teen struck by vehicle

A 16-year-old boy was fighting for life after being struck by a car on Pound Road, Narre Warren South on Friday 13 February.

Emergency services were called to reports a car had struck a pedestrian about 4.30pm, police say.

The teen was transported to hospital with life-threatening injuries.

The female driver of the vehicle crashed into a tree and is being assessed by paramedics.

Police are investigating the exact circumstances of the collision.

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

Community Support Fund at a municipal level and stronger oversight by the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission on venue community contributions.

According to the officer’s report, in the period of 2023/24, $158 million was lost to EGMs in Casey, translating to $544 lost annually per Casey adult.

This excludes losses from other forms of gambling such as online sports betting, casinos or lottery tickets.

Council argues that gambling harm is not confined to individual players. Research suggests that for every person directly affected, between seven and ten others, including family members and employers, experience negative consequences.

Casey’s Gambling Harm Minimisation Policy identifies advocacy, planning controls, leadership, research and community engagement as key action areas.

Councillors say reform at state level is essential to strengthen local efforts, particularly as online gambling continues to expand.

Cr Jennifer Dizon said that the harm ensued by the impacts of gambling is a “major and public health issue” calling for both state and federal reforms, a sentiment echoed by Cr Dave Perry.

If endorsed by the MAV board and passed at the State Council meeting in May and October, the resolution would form part of the association’s advocacy platform to the Victorian Government. (On file)

Life at Summerset Cranbourne North is about feeling at home from the moment you arrive. It’s a community designed for comfort and connection, where every detail supports the life you want to lead— today and in the years ahead.

With resort-style facilities including a pool, spa, café, recreational bowling green, and so much more,* every day offers new opportunities to relax, connect, and thrive.

The village offers a range of living options so, whether you prefer to live independently or need support, you can enjoy each day with confidence knowing our dedicated and professional team is available to help you at any stage.

What makes Summerset special is our unique continuum of care, which means if your needs change, you can continue living in the place you know and love, surrounded by familiar faces and the community you call home.^

Life doesn’t stop when you move into a Summerset village. It just gets better. Be sure to book a tour — we’d love to show you around.

Book a village tour

Monday to Saturday, 9am to 5pm

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

Advocacy countdown

By Violet Li

With the State Election looming, Casey Council is ramping up a transport-focused advocacy campaign, pushing major projects including the Clyde rail extension, Thompsons Road upgrades and improved bus services.

The agenda marks a scale-up from the community-level funding wins secured during last year’s Federal Election to far larger infrastructure ambitions.

“We hear from residents the challenges of getting in and out of their communities and the lack of some of the transport links that we need,” Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen told Star News.

“The key ones, obviously, everyone’s aware of Clyde Rail where we are seeking an extension,” he said, adding that Thompsons Road duplication and extension and a stronger bus network were also central priorities.

The Clyde rail extension, which would extend the Cranbourne line to Clyde and build three new stations (Cranbourne East, Casey Fields, and Clyde), estimated to cost about $2 to $3 billions, has been on the Council’s advocacy agenda for more than a decade.

It has been thrown around in multiple State Election campaigns without ever being delivered.

Cr Koomen said there was no expectation Casey ratepayers would help fund the project.

“At that level, it’s a key bit of infrastructure that would be funded by the State, and potentially, it could seek Federal contributions too,” he said.

When asked if the advocacy would contain detailed stage plans and the corresponding costings, Cr Koomen said those are not something that the council produces, but they are keen to support it.

“We’re going to be pushing for work on that. But ultimately, they are decisions made at other levels of government,” he said.

“What we’re going to be doing is making sure that our residents’ voices are heard on that.”

Council is also pushing for the Thompsons Road extension, which Cr Koomen described as a vital arterial linking Casey to Cardinia, Greater Dandenong and future employment precincts near Officer.

The project has also been on the Council’s advocacy agenda for a long time, since at least 2016, when Casey and Cardinia jointly lobbied the Federal Government for funding.

It was again predominantly raised by Cardinia Shire ahead of last year’s Federal Election, but no commitment was secured.

“For big projects that are of regional significance, you need to do that to really get it on the agenda,” Cr Koomen said.

“We’re part of the Greater South East Melbourne (GSEM) network, which will also have an advocacy campaign, and also Outer Melbourne Councils, which is another alliance we’re part of that will be doing advocacy as well.

“We’ll be doing a lot this year to try to get investment for Casey.”

Bus services are another focus.

“What we’re looking at is improvements, potential changes to routes, as well as additional services,” Cr Koomen said.

“What we find is that as we grow as a commu-

nity, there is often a lag between new communities being built and bus services coming in.

“A review and additional services would be a big boost for particular areas in Casey that are under serviced at the moment.

“The idea would be that by getting those bus networks in, people can get around the community without that additional car, so it has an added benefit to the broader road network.”

For this interview, Cr Koomen met Star News at Casey Fields Soccer Pavilion, the home of Melbourne City FC, near the site of the future Mini-Stadium, which was promised $11 million in Federal funding in last year’s election.

Once completed, the stadium will be able to host sporting events with a capacity of up to 5,000 spectators.

Cr Koomen said the location was chosen to demonstrate how coordinated election campaigning can translate into real infrastructure outcomes.

“It was probably one of our biggest achievements last year, securing funding,” he said.

“Cr Melinda Ambrose was key to securing this as well, and with Thompsons Road, we’re going to do the same again.

“We ran a really strong advocacy campaign through both major parties and ended up securing it through the government, which would not have happened without our efforts,” he said.

“It was about just consistent engagement and actually listening and working with both major parties on what their priorities are and making sure they fit in with ours.

“You’ve got to have some flexibility because they hold a lot of the funding, so we need to work with them, and we’ll do that again.

“We’re going to take that same approach this year for the State Election.”

Casey Council will officially launch the State Election advocacy campaign in March.

Drunk driver sentenced for fatal, high-speed crash

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

A Clyde North drink driver who lost control at a Tooradin roundabout at high speed resulting in the death of his friend has been jailed for at least five-and-a-half years.

Edward Latar, 38 at the time, displayed “appalling reckless driving” in speeding and swerving erratically while under the influence of alcohol, Victorian County Court judge Duncan Allen said on 12 February.

With two passengers aboard, Latar was fleeing from an earlier collision in Pakenham South, which was 22 kilometres away.

He approached the roundabout at South Gippsland Highway and Baxter-Tooradin Road at 156 km/h and lost control about 8.38pm on Saturday 6 July 2024.

The Jeep wagon left the road, slid sideways on a grass shoulder, went over an Armco metal safety barrier, got airborne and rolled several times in a paddock.

His rear passenger and friend Daniel Sadala, 32, was fatally injured.

The much loved, intelligent and highly regarded man died at the scene despite paramedics and CFA members performing CPR,

Judge Allen said.

Latar and a front passenger were injured and conveyed to The Alfred hospital. Latar was released the next day.

He recorded a blood-alcohol reading of 0.187 – more than thrice the legal limit and that rendered him incapable of properly controlling his vehicle, the judge noted.

Before the fatality, Latar and his passengers had been downing whiskey shots at his father’s house in Cranbourne.

One of his mates nagged Latar to drive him to a partner’s house in Pakenham.

Latar initially declined to drink-drive, but eventually relented – what Judge Allen termed a “terrible decision” with “shocking consequences”.

During the fateful trip, Latar was speeding, erratically swerving between lanes and became lost and disoriented while trying to find the address.

About 8.30pm, he crashed into the back of a Volkswagen Caddy van at the Healesville-Koo Wee Rup and Ballarto roads intersection, Pakenham South.

He later told police he got scared about having an accident when he shouldn’t be

driving, and “took off” at high speed.

He said he panicked as the Caddy pursued Latar’s Jeep on a foggy Ballarto Road.

The Caddy gave up the chase after noting the Jeep’s number plate and conveying the information to police via triple-0.

Seemingly unaware, Latar continued to flee down Clyde-Five Ways Road and South Gippsland Highway before he approached the Tooradin roundabout.

“And then that road was curving. That’s why the car turned - I mean the car flipped,” he later told police.

“I thought the road is going straight, I think, but the road curve(d) or there was a roundabout.”

Latar pleaded guilty to culpable driving causing death, as well as careless driving and failing to give a name-and-address at the initial crash.

In sentencing on 12 February, Judge Allen said the victim Sadala’s family suffered “immeasurable” impact – a “sense of loss and grief that will never go away”,

They were also caused great financial strain, reluctantly having to sell up their home – one that had enduring connection to

their lost family member.

In setting a non-parole period, the judge noted the self-employed truck driver’s guilty plea, “profound” remorse, “good” rehabilitation prospects and his distress in not supporting his wife and two children while he’s in jail.

He also noted the risk of Latar’s major PTSD and depression deteriorating in jail, as well as his exposure to war-related trauma growing up in South Sudan.

It was also significant that Latar had abstained from alcohol since immediately after the crash, given his “problematic” relationship with booze.

Judge Allen said a message needed to be sent to those seeking to drink and drive at speed and putting others at risk, as well as to heed the “devastating” impact on the victim and his family.

Latar was jailed for nine years and one month, with a five-and-a-half year non-parole period. He was disqualified from driving for five years.

FOCUS ON … MEDICALLY SPEAKING

Perfect time to sort things

By The Better Health Content Team

Why February is the perfect time to put your health first

As the new year settles in and routines begin to take shape, February offers a valuable opportunity to pause and reflect on our health. The excitement of January resolutions may have faded, but this month is an ideal time to turn good intentions into sustainable habits—especially when it comes to preventive healthcare.

February is often associated with fresh starts: children are back at school, adults are settling into work rhythms, and families are finding their balance again. It’s also a time when many people start to notice lingering fatigue, stress, or health concerns that were put off during the busy holiday season. Rather than waiting until symptoms worsen, early action can make a significant difference.

The importance of preventive health care

Preventive healthcare focuses on identifying potential health issues before they become serious. Regular checkups, health screenings, and routine blood tests can detect conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, and vitamin deficiencies early—often before noticeable symptoms appear.

Many people believe that if they feel “fine,” there’s no need to see a doctor. In reality, some of the most common chronic conditions develop silently. A simple GP visit can provide reassurance, early intervention, or guidance on lifestyle changes that protect long-term health.

Heart health matters — all year round February is also a timely reminder to think about heart health. Cardiovascular disease remains one of the leading causes of illness in Australia, yet many risk factors are manageable. Factors such as diet, physical activity, stress levels, smoking, and

family history all play a role.

Simple steps—like checking blood pressure, monitoring cholesterol levels, staying active, and managing stress—can significantly reduce risk. Your GP can help assess your individual risk fac-

World-class foot and leg care

Living with foot, knee, or leg pain can be frustrating — particularly if you’re unsure of who can help or traditional treatments haven’t delivered lasting results. Fortunately, residents from across Casey and Cardinia shires have access to world-class lower limb care close to home - in Berwick.

Dr. Paul Dowie, one of Australia’s most experienced musculoskeletal podiatrists, specialises in the diagnosis and treatment of lower limb pain, injury, degenerative concerns and children’s growth and development issues. With more than 25 years of clinical experience, Dr. Dowie has helped thousands of people to relieve pain, improve function and restore mobility.

His expertise has been sought by elite athletes, including multiple world number one tennis players, PGA golfers, Olympic gold medallists, and world record holders. Today, that same level of expertise is available to the wider community through his Foot and Leg Pain Clin-

ics across Melbourne, including Berwick.

Dr. Dowie takes a comprehensive, wholelimb approach - assessing lower limb biomechanics, from toes to hips, to uncover the true cause and contributing factors of concerns. His evidence-based treatment plans focus on relieving discomfort, improving function, healing injuries and strengthen joints and tissues to support long-term recovery, without the need for medication or surgery.

He treats common and complex conditions, including heel and arch pain, ankle, shin and knee pain, tendon and soft tissue injuries, bursitis, plantar fasciitis, arthritis, joint degeneration, and children’s growth-related concerns. Many patients seek his care after struggling to find answers elsewhere.

If you’re dealing with lower limb pain or mobility issues, call 1300 328 300 to book a consultation and assessment at Foot and Leg Pain Clinics in Berwick.

tors and create a plan that suits your lifestyle, age, and medical history.

Mental wellbeing in the new year

While much attention is given to physical health, mental wellbeing is just as important. The start of

the year can be unexpectedly stressful, with work demands, school adjustments, and financial pressures returning after the holidays.

Persistent stress, poor sleep, low mood, or feeling overwhelmed are signs that support may be helpful. Speaking with a healthcare professional early can prevent issues from escalating and support overall wellbeing. Mental health care plans and allied health services can provide valuable tools for managing stress and building resilience.

Supporting the whole family’s health

February is also a good time for family health check-ins. Children starting school or childcare may need updated immunisations, developmental checks, or support with sleep and routines.

Adults juggling work and family responsibilities often neglect their own health in the process.

A family-centred approach to healthcare ensures that everyone—from young children to older adults—receives the care and guidance they need at every life stage.

Turning health goals into lasting aabits

Instead of setting unrealistic resolutions, February is about consistency. Small, achievable changes—such as scheduling a health check, improving sleep habits, staying active, or addressing a lingering concern — can have lasting benefits.

Healthcare is not just about treating illness; it’s about supporting people to live healthier, fuller lives. Partnering with a trusted local medical clinic ensures access to coordinated care, professional advice, and ongoing support throughout the year.

As the year unfolds, taking time now to prioritise your health can set a strong foundation for the months ahead.

February isn’t just another month—it’s a chance to invest in your wellbeing, for today and for the future.

Centre’s parking backlash

By Violet Li

A proposed upgrade of the Pearcedale Village Shopping Centre has sparked strong local opposition, with residents raising concerns over the introduction of 90-degree parking and two-way traffic.

Casey Council’s draft concept plans envision converting the existing angled parking bays to 90-degree parking, introducing twoway traffic circulation and creating new pedestrian pathways through the centre of the car park.

The upgrade has sparked heated discussion in the local Pearcedale Facebook group, with local Linda Craven saying: “There haven’t been many things Pearcedale has got this passionate about.”

The long-time resident, who has been living in Pearcedale for more than 40 years, said the 90-degree parking and two-way traffic would make parking worse.

“At the moment, because it’s on the angle, it’s so easy to get a park, and if the parents are picking up their kids, they’ve got more room for the car doors to get them in and out, whereas it would be tighter,” she said.

“It’s only really school time that it gets hectic. If you’re a local, you just know, don’t go down there at that time. And then the rest of the day, it’s easy. On weekends, it’s never a problem for parking either.

“It’s not like it’s even increasing the number of carparks. They’re making fewer parks. It seems pointless to me why they would want to do this, just to put in a few more trees down the middle.

“I think it would be a shock to see that they’re going to spend all that money when it’s not really broken for what it needs to be doing.”

Linda also didn’t see why the Council would want to put a path down the middle of the car park.

trian safety, but if you’re driving and reversing around with two-way directional traffic, it’s twice as risky. You have to keep not only an eye on the oncoming traffic, but also on traffic moving in the opposite direction,” he said.

He said congestion at school pick-up times was already challenging and worried the redesign would worsen traffic conditions, particularly near Baxter-Tooradin Road and the petrol station entrance.

“Someone else had brought up the ability to bring a car in with a trailer, which is it’s gone with this current design,” he said.

“Now we’ve got a lot of tradespeople that work in and around farm equipment.”

Local Christie Coates said the angled parking “has always worked” and argued that pedestrian safety had never been a major issue outside school hours.

Just like Linda, she also questioned the need for a pedestrian path through the middle of the car park.

“I’ve never in my entire life gone, oh, I wish there was a footpath right through the middle of this car park,” she said.

“It’s not Myers. We’re not at Chadstone.” Christie pointed out the lighting issues in the carpark, arguing that a lighting upgrade would instead be helpful.

“Every single year, multiple times, we have no lights. The Council has to put generators in that car park. The lights always go off, and it takes like a week,” she said.

Trees are also proposed alongside the 90-degree parking bays, and picnic tables would be installed at the front of the newsagency and next to the cafe.

As part of the upgrade, four car spaces will be removed, resulting in 85 standard car spaces. There are currently three accessible park-

“It’s so easy to walk around where the shops and the verandas are, so if it’s raining, you stay dry. It’s not like it’s a huge shopping centre,” she said.

Cranbourne victim slams bail, lack of information

By Violet Li

A Cranbourne family who just moved into the area says they feel unsafe returning home after a burglary suspect was granted bail within a day, with police refusing to provide basic details about the alleged offender.

Resident Eklavya Datta said he was “extremely disappointed” after learning the man accused of stealing about $57,000 worth of gold from his home had been bailed within a day.

He was told that the police found some cash, but not gold, and the alleged perpetrator claimed that he took drugs and didn’t remember who he sold it to.

“We are very disappointed that he got bailed so easily despite the huge amount of gold he’s stolen,” Eklavya said.

“We now feel unsafe. The police said that he got bail easily because it wasn’t a violent crime and things like that.

“They didn’t tell us whether he was our neighbour, whether he was from the area, or whether he was an outsider. He said, we can’t deal with those details.

“The police should give us information about where the man was from. Does he live with us? Is he a neighbour? Can we go to a better neighbourhood? Is he an outsider just coming here for crimes? Then we should have some basic information so we can make a decision. Move somewhere or not.”

The break-in occurred on Tuesday 3 February, while the family left the house for work in the morning, with the offender allegedly forcing open a rear sliding door and stealing Indian gold jewellery, bank cards, spare car keys and an old mobile phone.

Eklavya said his wife began receiving transaction alerts shortly after midday, tracing card use to Cranbourne Shopping Centre, prompting the family to rush home and discover the burglary.

The family, who moved into the neighbourhood just two months ago, is still settling in and hasn’t even installed security

Eklavya Datta and his family moved to Cranbourne just two months ago, and they were stealing about $57,000 worth of gold from his home earlier this month. (Stewart Chambers: 533565)

cameras.

“We were told it’s a safe area,” Eklavya said.

Many gold items are said to be ancestral and convey high emotional value, Eklavya said.

“That’s why my wife is emotionally traumatised by the incident.”

Victoria Police informed that if the offender was bailed, this matter is before the court, so they cannot provide a comment.

They cannot provide information such as an offender’s suburb and their bail conditions due to privacy legislation.

The victim would have received a Notice to the Victim letter with the information about the incident, and can speak to the informant for updates about the matter.

ing spaces, but according to the Council, they do not all meet current Australian accessibility standards, so the project will also deliver three fully compliant ones in different spots.

Two of them would be placed in front of the newsagency, and the last one would be in front of the cafe.

Tyron Mcharry, who has lived locally for six years and grew up in neighbouring Somerville, shared Linda’s perspectives.

“I know a lot of this has to do with pedes-

“You’re sitting there in pitch darkness in the middle of winter with no lights in that entire shopping centre car park.”

The upgrade has been allocated $365,000 from the Council’s capital works budget.

Construction will start after final designs are completed in April, and construction will finish by 30 June 2026, dependent on weather conditions.

To make your voice heard, submit your comments via: conversations.casey.vic.gov. au/pearcedale-village

4 Scholtz Drive, Clyde North

Big & level 662m2 (approx) block

AUCTION SAT 28 FEB at 11:00 AM

In the very popular Clyde North in the Smiths Lane Estate, this level fully fenced approximately 662m2 residential block and is favoured by a frontage of 22 metres, that could suit the buyer requiring extra side parking. Within 250m to Clyde Grammar, Aspire Child Care and Kindergarten and Banjo Park, all makes for a family friendly Estate to Build your dream home on.

Contact Agent for details

L.J. Hooker Casey 03 5996 4777 Darren Saxon 0418 341 722

$14m Clubhouse now open

Discover over 55s resort-style living in the heart of Clyde

Over 55s living is redefined at Halcyon Evergreen. Step into an architecturally designed, 7-star energy-rated home and enjoy low-maintenance living at its finest.

Experience the security of a private gated community and the convenience of a brand-new clubhouse with resort-style amenities right at your doorstep. Make new friends, join social clubs, and embrace a lifestyle where you can do as much or as little as you like. Life after 55 isn’t about slowing down; it’s about living more.

Zero exit fees, DMF, or stamp duty at Halcyon Evergreen. Visit our stunning display homes and discover a selection of beautifully completed homes – ready for you to move in today.

Stockland Halcyon Evergreen 20S Follett Boulevard, Clyde Open Monday to Friday: 10am–4pm Saturday: 12pm–4pm

Cruise North America

By Lee Mccarthy

Take in historic cities and rugged shores with Viking’s 15-day Canada and East Coast Explorer voyage from Toronto, Ontario to Fort Lauderdale, Florida or vice versa.

Fifteen days, seven guided tours, two countries and countless meals and experiences ensure this is the perfect once in a lifetime cruise. Start the cruise in Toronto savouring the diversity of Toronto’s food scene and explore some of the city’s treasures.

On day two, guests can experience the series of locks, canals and channels that comprise the St. Lawrence Seaway.

Day three, those who wish to can be immersedinthereligiousheritageofTrois-Rivieres during a trip to a historic shrine to the Virgin Mary.

Guests can explore the rugged beauty of the Canadian Shield during an exhilarating Zodiac ride or take to the water in a kayak and explore the surrounding with a member of the Viking Expedition Team.

For the culinary lovers enjoy a selection of local favourites as you explore the city’s culinary roots during a walk around Trois-Rivières.

Travellers will step back in time to explore the intriguing history of Quebec City during an excursion through its old town or explore the contrasting landscapes that form the Cap Tourmente National Wildlife Area during a hiking excursion.

Experience the world’s largest naval base in Norfolk, travel Nova Scotia’s shores and rugged landscapes and visit Quebec’s National Parks.

Viking’s inclusive value includes everything you need, such as a guided excursion in every port, all onboard meals including alternative dining venues, wine and beer with lunch and dinner, unlimited Wi-Fi, 24-hour specialty tea, coffee, and bottled water, access to the stateof-the-art Nordic spa, self-service laundry, and all tipping. With no children, no casinos, fewer than 1,000 guests, and all veranda staterooms, Viking’s award-winning ships take you as close as possible to each destination.

Guests can go underground in Cape Breton and get a glimpse of what life was like digging coal at the Cape Breton Miners Museum.

One treat guaranteed to please is a visit to Peggy’s Cove to enjoy a delicious lobster lunch in the picture-perfect postcard seaside village or discover distinctly Nova Scotian wines during a visit to Petit Rivière Vineyards in the Lahave River Valley or sample a selection of local beer in Nova Scotia’s picturesque South Shore district.

Enjoy Charleston’s southern charm and colonial homes and embark on a guided exploration by motor coach or experience the natural beauty of the low country during a visit to one of the only team farms in the United States.

Learn how to prepare typical Charleston dishesduringaninteractivecookingdemonstration and explore the streets of Charleston during a walking tour as guests are invited to step inside one of the city’s historic homes.

The cruise arrives in Ft. Lauderdale Florida, with many guests taking advantage of the Post Cruise Extension to enjoy additional days exploring. A two-night extension in Ft Lauderdale costs from $1499 and is a stunning end to a truly stunning fifteen days.

While sailing, guests can attend lectures, watch a film in the eight thousand laser-projected panoramic screen in The Aula or focus on wining and dining, whatever the choice, Viking offers an unbeatable holiday in understated elegance.

Right now, the cruise is priced from $12,295 per person for a Nordic Balcony saving up to $2500 per booking with Viking’s “Fly free, flight upgrade credit”.

Book before 31 March 2026.

- Mar 2027

unforgettable

Iconic Experiences, Expertly Escorted

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

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

Full-Board River Elegance

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

Hand-Picked 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

All Flights, Taxes & Transfers

12 DAYS • 1 COUNTRY 11 GUIDED TOURS SET SAIL • MAY, AUG-DEC 2026; JAN-JUN, AUG-DEC 2027; 2028

Step into the land of pharaohs and timeless wonders. Viking invites you to experience Egypt like never before. Sail the legendary Nile on a 12-day cruisetour through Egypt and enjoy an included shore excursion to the newly opened Grand Egyptian Museum — the world’s largest archaeological museum and home to Tutankhamun’s treasures. Witness history in the making while indulging in the comfort and elegance of Viking’s award-winning river ships.

From $11,395pp in Standard Stateroom

From $13,695pp in Veranda Stateroom

20 years making it work

By Violet Li

Women Making It Work (WMIW), a grassroots network supporting women in business across Casey and Cardinia, marked its 20th anniversary with the launch of a new book sharing the personal stories behind local enterprises.

Almost 100 people braved torrential rain to attend the launch event in Clyde North in October last year.

The anthology, Beyond the Business: Stories of Women Who Dared, features stories from 22 local women and explores what it takes to run a business while navigating life’s challenges.

The book launch featured a Living Library experience, where contributors became “living books,” sharing their stories through facilitated conversations.

Berwick-based kinesiologist and hypnotherapist Carolyn King, who has run Empowered Happiness for 15 years, shared her experience of being diagnosed with breast cancer during the pandemic and the lessons she learned stepping back from her business during treatment.

“It’s not a business book as such. Because when we say businesswoman, we’re just looking at the person who’s running a business. We don’t realise they have a life behind that,” Carolyn said.

“They have children, they have partners, they have other commitments, they may have health issues, they may have elderly parents, whatever it is.

“This book really gives an insight into the dynamics of what it takes to run a business and run and also navigate through life’s challenges.”

Carolyn said one thing she loves about women making it work, as opposed to some of the other networking events out there, is that they always have a speaker who is designed to help the members build their business in some capacity.

“Whether it’s LinkedIn or it’s AI or marketing, it’s always geared towards helping us build our business in some capacity,” she said.

“They listen to the members, and just recently someone said they needed help with LinkedIn. So, at the next networking event, someone’s going to

network supporting women in business across Casey and Cardinia, marked its 20th anniversary with the launch of a new book sharing the personal stories behind local enterprises. (Supplied)

talk about that.

“It’s also helped my business because I’ve just connected with local businesswomen in the area, and they get to know what I do, and I get to know what they do.”

Carolyn recalled that the launch night was held during severe winds, but the event still reached capacity.

“During the book launch, I actually remember even seeing 4 birds not be able to fly in the wind. It was a really, really windy night,” she said.

“But the vibe was great. Many of us got to tell our story in person.”

Contributors took part in small group “story

time” sessions, giving attendees the opportunity to hear directly from the authors and ask questions.

For Lang Lang-based organisational development consultant Debbie Key, who runs Success BOX, the network has provided both professional collaboration and personal support.

After joining WMIW almost 12 months ago, she described it as “the most amazing find”.

“You’re surrounded by phenomenal women who have just really embraced who they are, what they want to achieve in this world, and they know very much what their niche market is and who they want to talk to, what value they bring, and I

think that is an empowering space,” she said.

“It’s quite an unusual space for a group of women. If you were in a corporate environment, you might find the odd one or two in that space, but the rest of them are suffering from imposter syndrome and are tired and bored and overwhelmed and keep hitting the glass ceiling, and they’re just not who they should be.

“It’s just wonderful every month to walk into that room and have these amazing women around you, and the support that comes from it is extraordinary.”

Debbie has been working with two other women in the network on different projects in the past 12 months, and she said those opportunities wouldn’t have presented themselves to her if she hadn’t come to the network.

“It’s about connection. When you’re a sole trader, an entrepreneur, I sit here in my office at home. My husband goes off to work and comes back at the end of the day. But unless I’m talking to clients, I technically don’t have any teammates around me,” she said.

“I see that network as my teammates. I can reach out on Facebook and go, hey guys, I’m looking for something. Does anybody know about this? The responses come in if people can help.

“I don’t know where I would go if I didn’t have that because Google and ChatGPT are so much. It doesn’t give you that human experience connection that you so need.”

WMIW Chairperson Khatija Halabi said the organisation’s focus extended beyond individual success.

“It’s not about your own personal success – it’s about the success of others and rising together,” she said.

WMIW is now preparing for its International Women’s Day 2026 event at Watermans Business Centre in Scoresby, themed “Balance the Scales,” which will explore equity, leadership and shared responsibility in business and community life.

To learn more about the new book, visit: amazon.com.au/Beyond-Business-Stories-Women-Dared/dp/B0G3GST1Q2

New $14m clubhouse

Stockland has officially opened its new $14 million clubhouse in its Halcyon Evergreen land lease community in Clyde with a community open day on Saturday 7 February.

Located at 20S Follett Boulevard, Clyde, the clubhouse sets a benchmark for over-55s living with resort-style amenities like community gardens, pickleball courts, a bowling green, events lawn, fire pit, treatment room, fully equipped gym, sauna and steam room, a magnesium-infused pool, library, arts area, social bar, kitchen and dining spaces, and a Gold Class-style cinema.

The clubhouse at Evergreen is the third to open in the region in the last six months, following the recent openings at Halcyon Horizon and Halcyon Jardin and, later this month, an additional clubhouse is expected to open at Halcyon Highlands in Melbourne’s north.

Stockland’s presence in Melbourne’s southeast region spans three land lease communities and four masterplanned communities, reinforcing its long-term commitment to supporting the local area’s population growth and evolving housing needs.

The City of Casey – one of Victoria’s fastestgrowing municipalities – is expected to see its 55+ population grow by 50,000 to 126,000 by 2041[1], highlighting the need for communities like Halcyon Evergreen. Once complete, Halcyon Evergreen will comprise around 295 homes.

Halcyon Evergreen Homeowner Kim and her husband spent years looking at different communities before finding Evergreen, a place that felt right not just for them, but for their family. After the loss of his wife, Kim’s 93-year-old father also moved to Evergreen, into the home next door.

“The first time we walked into Evergreen, the people were welcoming, Homeowners invited us into their homes, and it immediately felt like a real community,” said Kim.

“After losing my mum, my dad decided to move to Halcyon Evergreen and now lives in the home next door to us. He’s a real people per-

son and absolutely loves being surrounded by the community. Knowing he’s with people who genuinely care about him gives me such peace of mind. He’s 93, and if I’m not there, neighbours pop in to check on him, take him up to happy hour at the clubhouse, or bring him home when he’s ready to rest. It’s given him connection, purpose, and a new lease on life.

“Our grandkids also love coming to Evergreen, the pool is always the first stop. Watching my dad enjoying life again, seeing our grandkids making memories here, and knowing we’re part of a community that truly looks out for one another

is something we never expected when we started this journey,” concluded Kim.

Stockland Halcyon Victoria General Manager, James Westh, said there is growing appeal for connected, resort-style living for over-55s in Melbourne’s south east.

“We know it’s important for Homeowners to have spaces that make it easy to connect with each other and stay active, and the new clubhouse at Halcyon Evergreen has been designed to provide that shared space,” Mr Westh said.

“Halcyon Evergreen has been designed to reflect the character of its natural surroundings,

while remaining close to shops, services and amenities – providing a lifestyle that balances relaxation and convenience.”

Leading lifestyle medicine expert and author of Live More Happy, Dr Darren Morton, who also serves as Stockland Halcyon’s Wellbeing Advisor, said this trend reflects a growing desire among older Victorians to live in communities that support health and happiness.

“The research is clear: to achieve wellbeing as we age, we need to be active, do things we enjoy, and feel a sense of purpose. Most importantly, we need to be connected with others. Communities that foster connection are fundamental to maintaining wellbeing in our later years,” Dr Morton said.

Homeowners in Stockland’s over-55s communities report wellbeing scores 11.6 percentage points higher than the national average (84.7% vs 73.1%), driven by satisfaction with standard of living (87%), personal relationships (86%), and safety (83%)[2].

The launch of the Halcyon Evergreen Clubhouse highlights Stockland’s ongoing commitment to investing in Victorian communities and creating spaces that support the wellbeing and connection of the state’s growing over-55s population.

Mobile map launched

By Jensy Callimootoo

At a time when much of the world is heavily dependent on mobile and digital services, Casey’s new cellular mapping tool launched in early February, highlights major coverage gaps in the growing region.

The signal mapping tool allows residents to engage with accessible insights on mobile connectivity in Casey, working as an interactive 4G and 5G mobile signal map to identify where reception may be strong, patchy or weak.

Community pressure to develop telecommunication infrastructure around Casey has been longstanding, with many complaining that inadequate network coverage has impacted their daily lives, from lack of adequate connectivity to work, school and emergency services.

The map highlights significant cover disparities across the region, with inconsistencies in signal strength between established suburbs and the growth fringes, such as emerging areas in Clyde and Clyde North identified as black-spots.

While 4G remains the backbone of the region, developing suburbs exhibit persistent poor signal areas and despite being high-growth regions with increasing populations, infrastructure has not kept pace with residential development.

According to the map, high-speed bands are frequent but often have the poorest indoor penetration, creating a pattern where performance drops off sharply once a user enters a building.

The map also allows for a direct comparison of Victoria’s three major telecommunication carriers, including Telstra, Optus and Vodafone.

And while no single carrier provides “excel-

WHAT’S ON

Patsy & Dave

Trailblazing country music from Melbourne duo Patsy Toop and David Baird, support act Little Miss Country. Presented by Berwick and District Folk Club (BADFolk).

• Friday 20 February, doors open 6.30pm at Old Cheese Factory, Homestead Road, Berwick; $15 (cash at the door).

Gardening Together

For kids, dads and granddads. A morning of digging, planting, playing and getting dirty. Grow vegetables to eat, learn about insects, and have fun in the kids’ play garden. BYO hats, sunscreen and water bottles. Gardening tools and resources provided.

• Saturday 21 February 10am-11.30am at Old Cheese Factory, 34 Homestead Road, Berwick; free activity. Bookings: trybooking.com/events/ landing/1525942

Elysian Blues + Yeo

We’re celebrating the Year of the Horse with an evening of music, food, art and fun. Featuring Elysian Blues, DJ tunes by Yeo and the amazing Hung Hing Lion Dance performers. Part of the Open Space outdoor event series.

• Saturday 21 February 6pm-9pm at Bunjil Place plaza, Narre Warren; free event. Details: bunjilplace.com.au/events/open-space-elysian-bluesyeo

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. 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.

• Monday 23 February 10am-11am at Doveton Tennis Club, Oak Avenue (Robinson Reserve). Bookings: trybooking.com/DIFFV

Bird Walk with Dad

Dads, grandfathers, father figures and their children will join the Clyde North Dad Squad for a free evening of exploration and bird watching fun. Please wear walking shoes and bring hats, a water bottle and binoculars (if you have them).

• Monday 23 February, 6.30pm sharp at Cascades on Clyde Wetlands (meet at Frankland Street playground), Clyde North; free event. Bookings: trybooking.com/DIYQA

The Dad You “Rock Up” As Sam Ramsden, creator of the Silly Stories for Kids

lent” coverage across the municipality, the pattern highlights pockets where one carrier may perform better.

A spokesperson from Connecting Victoria said that mobile coverage delivered by mobile infrastructure is largely determined by commercial decisions of mobile carriers.

“The rapid establishment of new estates in growth areas means that mobile coverage or capacity on existing mobile towers may not keep pace with community demand,” they said.

“In addition, sometimes mobile carriers report difficulties in securing suitable locations to

podcast, presents an online session on practical tools such as The 10 Minute Reset to be the best version of yourself. Part of the Dads Connect sessions.

• Monday 23 February 8pm-9pm; free event. Register at us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/ QyCQD5ERQ9-PF2ZdDYLh-g

Visible Mending Workshop

Bring along your moth-chomped or ripped items and use visible mending techniques to give your damaged items new life. Session covers woollen, stretchy, woven clothing, plus sashiko, embroidery, and weaving mends. Light refreshments provided.

• Friday 27 February 1.30pm-4pm at Good Food Emporium, Unit 15/430-440 Princes Hwy, Narre Warren; free event. Bookings: events.humanitix. com/visible-mending-workshop-27-2-afternoon

Twilight Tucker and Tunes

Pack your picnic rug and enjoy kids entertainers, relaxed acoustic performances, food trucks, cafe, animal nursery, tractor rides, temporary tattoos, paddock feed trail, playground and water play.

• Friday 27 February 5pm-9pm at Myuna Farm, 182 Kidds Road Doveton; $6pp/$20 for group of 4/babies under 12 months free. Bookings: trybooking.com/DGVGL

Open Space: Pseudo Echo

Legendary Australian new-wave pioneers of 1980s synth-pop and dance-rock hits Pseudo Echo are taking you to Funky Town. Supported by Lupa J and Alkira Synth Collective.

• Saturday 28 February 6pm-9.30pm at Bunjil Place plaza, Narre Warren; free event. Details: bunjilplace.com.au/events/open-space-pseudoecho

Ellis Rowan talk

Paula Taylor presents a talk, The Indomitable Ellis Rowan on the famous flower painter of the late 1800s-early 1900s whose works are on display at Berwick Mechanics Institute. Ellis Rowan was also the aunt of Lady Maie Casey of Edrington, Berwick. Light refreshments to follow.

Wednesday 4 March, 2pm at Berwick Mechanics Institute & Free Library, 15 High Street, Berwick.

Harmony Festival

Live multicultural performances, traditional dances, interactive workshops, and a variety of food vendors to celebrate Casey’s rich cultural diversity.

• Saturday 7 March 12pm-6pm at Greg Clydesdale Square, Cranbourne Park Shopping Centre, 125 High St, Cranbourne; free event.

Salsa in the Park: Family Fiesta

Salsa dancing and delicious food in the outdoors.

• Saturday 7 March 6pm-9pm at Wilson Botanic Park Berwick; free event. Bookings required at events.humanitix.com/salsa-in-the-park-family-fiesta

install mobile telecommunications infrastructure after developments have been completed.”

In recognition of the issue, the City of Casey has voted to submit a recommendation to the ALGA secretariat that will call on the Federal Government to have a greater presence in leading discussions with states and territories to deliver planning controls that require delivery of cellular telecommunications infrastructure in new residential and commercial estates, particularly in growth areas.

Casey’s mayor, Stefan Koomen said that the council understands that mobile phone networks and infrastructure is an “essential service”.

“Historically, there have been limited requirements to consider mobile infrastructure in new developments, and as demand increases, available space for new infrastructure is often inadequate to address service gaps,” he said.

“For this reason, council is advocating for better planning controls to require earlier delivery of cellular phone infrastructure in new estates to avoid the service gaps we are seeing in suburbs

Open Space: Andrew Swift

Enjoy heartfelt ballads to boot-stomping anthems as Golden Guitar award-winning artist Andrew Swift headlines a night of great Australian country music with rising stars Ethan Calway and Tegan Blackstock.

• Saturday 7 March, 6pm-9pm at Bunjil Place plaza, Narre Warren; free event. Details: bunjilplace.com.au/events/open-space-andrew-swift Live Gospel Music

Urban Praise presents its first event for the year, Nobody Greater. A powerful celebration of faith, music and community with soulful singers and live band.

• Saturday 7 March, doors open 7pm at Winepress Christian Church, 54-60 Intrepid Street, Berwick; $20/children under 4 free. Bookings: events.humanitix.com/nobody-greater-urbanpraise-incoporated

Open Space: Cookin’ On 3 Burners with Stella Angelico Trailblazers from the worlds of funk, hip hop, soul and future sounds come together for a music event like no other. Melbourne’s funk power trio Cookin’ On 3 Burners, with GRID Series Release Party feat. M4RTHA, Kiid Koda, ACP & Jordz.

• Saturday 14 March 6pm-9pm at Bunjil Place plaza, Narre Warren; free event. Details: bunjilplace.com.au/events/open-space-cookin&percn t;E2%80%99-on-3-burners-stellaangelico

Creative Wellness Fair

A free creative wellness event celebrating arts, culture, and mindful living. Tai Chi, Yoga and Zentangle and more family fun activities as we explore how ancient wisdom enriches modern life — nurturing harmony in body, mind, and community. All ages welcome. Presented by We at One Harmony Organisation.

• Saturday 21 March 10am-4pm at Cranbourne West Community Hub, 4 Flicka Boulevard, Cranbourne West; free entry. Details: facebook.com/ creativewellnessfair

Open Space: Wild Gloriosa and Hari Sivanesan

Award-winning Tamil-Australian artist Wild Gloriosa brings her captivating blend of neo-soul, R&B, and jazz, along with veena virtuoso Hari Sivanesan, Studio J Dance and Kerfew Collective DJ’s. Sneak preview of gallery exhibition The Offbeat Sari.

• Saturday 21 March 6pm-9pm at Bunjil Place plaza, Narre Warren; free event. Details: bunjilplace.com.au/events/open-space-wild-gloriosaand-hari-sivanesan

like Clyde North.”

Federal member for Holt, Cassandra Fernando, has also been a stern advocate for telecommunication infrastructure around the region and says that more work is needed to ensure the community is connected.

In 2022, the Federal Government’s Peri-Urban Mobile Project (PUMP) secured funding for two mobiles in Casey, including Clyde’s Bells Road and Blind Blight near Tooradin, aiming to boost coverage for numerous estates in the growth fringes — both are still in progress.

This brings a total of 12 towers scheduled for delivery by the end of 2027.

Ms Fernando says that her advocacy will continue, telling Star News that “there is still more work to do”.

“I will continue advocating strongly for improved telecommunications coverage across our community,” she said.

“As Casey grows, infrastructure must keep pace.

“That means ongoing collaboration between all levels of government, developers and telecommunications providers to ensure no household is left behind.

“Everyone deserves reliable mobile service, and I will keep pushing until every home in Holt can stay safely connected — because in a modern community, mobile access is just as vital as running water.”

Those who would like to explore the new signal map can go to, data.casey.vic.gov.au/page/ cellular-mapping.

All Holden Car Show Classic Kingswoods and Monaros to newer Holdens, HSVs, Brock/HDT specials and Walkinshaw performance builds — this is the ultimate celebration of Holden pride. Holden displays across every era, trophies and prizes, live music, BBQ, food trucks, kid activities, car product stalls, charity raffles. Presented by Rotary Club of Dandenong and Endeavour Hills.

• Sunday 22 March 9am-2pm (bump-in entrant cars from 7am) at Greaves Reserve, Bennet Street, Dandenong. Details: U3A Cranbourne

Three new classes for 2026 mosaics with talented artist Tony Shannon (Tuesdays 12pm), beginner Italian with tutor Jan (Wednesdays 10am-12pm) 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

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Tons galore in lower grades

By Justin Schwarze

B GRADE

Table-leaders Pakenham Upper/Toomuc have been set a monumental task by Tooradin after the Seagulls posted 267 in the first innings at Barton Reserve in round 13 of the Casey Cardinia Cricket Association (CCCA) lower grades.

Despite Riley McLeod (0) being dismissed to have Tooradin 1/0, Peter Stone battled through to fall just short of a ton.

Stone reached 98 before being caught, but solid contributions from Robert Simpson (53) and Jono Sherer (27) helped the Seagulls push forward.

Mark Sandfort was the deadliest Yabby with the ball, taking four wickets, while Bailey Smith and Jonathan Rewell snagged two each.

Pakenham Upper/Toomuc will chase 268 on day two.

An intriguing clash between finals hopeful Merinda Park and Nar Nar Goon has the Cobras in front after a day.

The Marygoons were knocked over for just 109 after 48.1 overs, despite the best efforts of Jarratt Eastburn (44) and Shamraiz Mehdi (20 not out).

Adrian Slater (four wickets) did the heavy lifting with the ball, paving the way for Merinda Park to conclude the day 1/48 in the chase.

Lang Lang has a good shot to win its first game of the year and upset fourth-placed Emerald after the Swamp Tigers notched 9/182 in the first innings at home.

The hosts were spearheaded by Damien Quinlan (42), Hash Dayanada (28) and Max de Longville (28).

Officer is off to a fruitful start with the Bullants already in hot pursuit of Devon Meadows’ score of 131.

Ayden Neil (51 not out) and Jordan Jansz (41) scored the bulk of the Panthers’ runs, but Kevin Baldsing’s spell 5/29 from 11 overs helped the Bullants bowl out the hosts for 131.

Officer lost both of its openers in the day’s remaining 16 overs but settled at 2/51 at stumps.

C GRADE

A well-rounded team effort headlined Carlisle Park in its massive score of 349 against Pakenham Upper/Toomuc at home.

Brendan McCarthy (74), Sean Hinkley (67) and Ethan de Vries (54) were the three Vikings to raise the bat while Robert Fuller (45) came close to being the fourth.

Will Sharlott’s three wickets was the best for the Yabbies who have a gargantuan target of 350 to hunt down on day two.

Dene North (67) and Anthony Ponweera (51) powered Pakenham to 202 at Toomuc Reserve against Kerala Strikers.

Villy Vincent’s three-wicket haul allowed the Strikers to roll the Lions and his side finished the day 0/1 overnight after being forced to face a single over.

Upper Beaconsfield was restricted by Kooweerup and held to just 135 after 67 overs.

Two wickets apiece for Gerrard Gilmour, Paul West, Curtis Eddington and Bhavjot Singh marked a deep performance for the Demons. Clyde is well established in its chase of 156 set by Melbourne Sixers.

The Sixers were knocked over, with Dilum Edirisinghe (45) top scoring, thanks to bags of three wickets from Will Round and Stuart Williams.

The Cougars rounded out the day by piling on 67 runs, losing just Steven Russell (25) while Jayson Dryden (38 not out) remains the danger man. D GRADE

Merinda Park already has first innings points after a dominant day against Cardinia.

The Bulls opted to bat after winning the toss, a decision that became perplexing when they were rolled for just 54.

Kirti Maan Sharma and Ryan Sharma were a two-man wrecking crew as both took five-fas to combine for all 10 wickets.

Ryan Sharma’s final figures were eye-popping, taking 5/14 from 13.2 overs.

The Cobras wasted no time with the bat, reaching 8/246 in 39 overs, headlined by Thomas Hodge (68 not out), Nathan Francis (66) and Martin Jones (22) before declaring to have a crack at the outright result on day two.

Nasib Sunny’s monstrous knock of 112 carried Pakenham Upper/Toomuc to 194 in a matchup with Devon Meadows.

Sunny did brilliantly to navigate the near unplayable spell of Scott Rainey, who took 7/29 from

CASEY CARDINIA CRICKET ASSOCIATION LOWER GRADES REVIEW - ROUND 13 (DAY 1)

his 16.4 overs for the Panthers.

Officer is already on the doorstep of victory at home against Nar Nar Goon.

James Quinn, Brent Pullen, Stefan De Silva and Cody Lucas all chipped in two wickets to roll the Marygoons for 82.

In the day’s remaining 16 overs, the Bullants shaved off 61 runs from the required amount, settling at 1/61 at stumps with Lucas in charge at 35 not out.

Pakenham has some work to do to stave off Kerala Strikers after Russell Little (82) was the standout Lion.

Little scored 82 of Pakenham’s 181 as threewicket hauls from Raju Parakudiyil Kuriakose and Giss Thomas fuelled the Strikers.

Rohit Sankar (27 not out) and Joshua Sunil (28) boosted the chase as Kerala Strikers got to 2/78 at the conclusion of the day.

E GRADE WEST

The tail wagged for Merinda Park as Chris Williams (41) and Lochlan Gillespie (42) formed a 75-run partnership at the bottom of the order to help the Cobras notch 190 against Tooradin.

Stanley Freeman claimed four scalps while Damien Whitnell managed three poles for the Seagulls.

Tooradin turned around and knocked off 34 runs from the target, sitting at 1/34 at stumps.

Chris Slater and Nital Tawde formed a lethal one-two punch at Hunt Club Oval as Carlisle Park demolished Officer for just 60.

Slater (5/13 from six overs) and Tawde (5/14 from seven overs) ripped through the Bullants and combined for all ten poles.

The Vikings then made 5/141 to finish the day as Andrew Myers (41 not out) and Lokesh Baskaran (27) made their marks.

Devon Meadows is closing in on a triumphant result over Clyde with a solid performance with both bat and ball.

Firstly, Robert Worsteling’s three wickets boosted the Panthers in bowling out the Cougars for 130 before David Carson (28 not out) and Mick Floyd (23) got the hosts to 1/62 in the chase.

E GRADE EAST

Clyde is in the box seat after a ton from Glenn Tuckwell (101) and a half century from Shahzaib Umar (77) guided the Cougars to 269 against Officer.

Sean Chamberlain (five wickets) was the best of the Bullants.

Pakenham is in serious trouble in a home matchup with Emerald with the Bombers having the Lions 3/39 chasing 208.

Dale Street (44) and Dan Besley (31) held off Gary Sewell’s figures of 4/32 to post 208.

Alexander Barbour then wreaked havoc to conclude the day, snagging three wickets to push Pakenham to the brink.

Kerala Strikers recorded 164 during its time at the crease as Senuth Ashcharya Eramudugolla (40) top scored against Avengers.

Vikas Choudhary and Praveen Harapanahalli both took three breakthroughs to lead the Avengers.

Dennis George (36 not out) and Harkanwaljit Singh (35) got the chase off to a good start as Avengers sit 2/107 overnight.

ONE DAY COMP

Merinda Park legend Johnee Cuthbertson stole all the headlines again by notching his third straight century for the Cobras.

This one came off 82 deliveries and set his side up for a massive win over Lang Lang. The Cobras also got good production from Paul Roach (48 not out) to notch 3/236 before Jason Hodrien recorded 4/19 to knock over the Swamp Tigers for 110.

Pakenham Upper/Toomuc (5/154) found winning ways over Avengers (8/150) thanks to knocks from Meet Patel (47) and Digesh Bhatt (45).

Kooweerup (269) downed Upper Beaconsfield (93) with Timothy Miller (64), Steven Hobson (59) and Rohan Scott (40) leading the charge for the Demons.

Melbourne Sixers (7/240) successfully defended its score against Emerald (151) as Jegatheeswaran Loganathan raised the bat for 67.

Clyde up for the challenge

By Justin Schwarze

A red-hot Rutter Park battle saw the two most inform teams of the competition in Tooradin and Clyde go back-and-forth on day one in round 13 of the Casey Cardinia Cricket Association (CCCA) Premier Division.

Both teams entered on three game winning streaks in the approach to finals as the Cougars still look to lock in their spot in the top four.

The coin toss fell in favour of the visitors and they showed no hesitation in electing to bat.

Clyde opening pair Trevor Bauer and Kane Avard dug in early, scoring 29 runs before superstar all-rounder Josh Lownds was brought in as the first change to replace Tyler Evans.

In the first over of his attack, Lownds broke through and got the massive wicket of leagueleading runscorer Bauer (13) when the Cougars skipper tried to slash one away and was caught behind on the off side.

It brought X-factor talent Ryan Adams to the crease, and Clyde then established a firm grasp of the contest, with Adams and Avard powering through a relentless Seagulls spin attack.

The pair guided their side to 1/110 at tea, with Adams raising the bat for a classy 50.

Shortly after the break, Adams (67) played a shot out of the air that was pounced on and caught by a diving Cal O’Hare off the bowling of Evans.

The wicket sparked a momentum wave for Tooradin, who then quickly removed Shamil Samarasinghe (2) and Ramneet Dhindsa (0) to remind the Cougars of their lethality.

Thus, the visitors went from 1/123 to 4/130 in the span of five overs.

But opener Avard remained and brought up a well deserved half century, grinding his way to 59 from 183 deliveries.

His knock came to an end when Bailey Lownds caught him off his own bowling with Clyde 5/163.

Russell Lehman then stamped his signature on the match, snagging four late wickets to help minimise the damage and reduce the final total.

The Cougars still batted the full 80 overs and posted 9/215, with Nuwan Kariyawasam (24) and Nick Shannon (21) providing useful knocks in the lower order.

Lehman’s four wickets led the hosts, while Bailey Lownds registered three poles.

“Our focus was for the top four to do the bulk of the batting, face as many balls as possible and set the game up for the middle order,” Clyde skipper Bauer said of the plan coming in.

“I went out at 1/30 which wasn’t a bad start, and then Ryan and Kane got to 1/110 at tea which was awesome.

“Tooradin bowled well with their spin by bringing Bailey and Josh on.

“They probably bowled a bit negatively but it was positive in the way they controlled the game and controlled the run rate.

“They bowled a fourth, fifth and even sixth stump line and challenged Kane and Ryan to take it on.

“We played it well, whether we could’ve played it a little more positively, that’s something I’ve been thinking about.

“All in all it was a good day, 215 feels just below par but it’s equally defendable if we bowl well.

“It came to number six and number seven and Kane playing his most mature innings for the year, making 59 off 183 balls and wanting to take the innings as deep as possible.

“One thing we’ve seen against Tooradin and the other top sides is you can lose wickets in clumps so having one of the top four bat right the way through helps that not to happen.

“From that side of Ryan and Kane, it was very pleasing.”

While the Cougars felt they left runs out in the middle, there is plenty of optimism that comes with the first innings.

“The foundation and the top four taking ownership is a big tick,” Bauer acknowledged.

“Knowing that there is still upside, the middle order didn’t fire and if they do it can add another 30 or 40, it takes that total into 250 or 260 and that’s where it gets a little uncomfortable for the opposition.

“I think the top order is a big tick and the upside that the middle order has room to improve should allow us to believe that those bigger totals are possible.”

Defending 215 will be a tricky task away from home as Tooradin is the competition’s most pro-

CASEY CARDINIA CRICKET ASSOCIATION PREMIER REVIEW - ROUND 13 (DAY 1)

lific batting side, having scored 200 more runs than any other team this season.

But a clear plan will be in place to give the visitors as much of a chance as possible.

“I think we want to come up with a plan A and a plan B,” Bauer said.

“Definitely with Luke Kerford and Ramneet who have bowled a lot of spin for us, I think with them being versatile to either keep it tight or switch it around with our seamers to potentially have one end of spin and we rotate our seam.

“Or we could go both ends of spin to save a burst from the seamers maybe before or after tea.

“I’ll be working a couple of scenarios but I think initially we want to fire Ryan and potentially Nick Shannon up for a new ball burst.

“Then we can assess how the batters are playing and if we need to change the tempo or change the rhythm by rotating our bowlers.”

At Rob Porter Reserve, an intriguing matchup between Officer and Upper Beaconsfield has the Maroons well in the hunt.

The Bullants batted first on their home deck and built their innings around Cooper Pursell (43), Jack James (41) and Peter Quinn (37).

Tyler Astle (three wickets) and Will Haines (three wickets) retaliated for the visitors, but Officer saw a chance to strike and made the interesting decision to declare at 9/191.

Upper Beaconsfield saw out the day unharmed at 0/3 in the chase after facing two overs.

A favourable Devon Meadows start away at Kooweerup was soon an afterthought courtesy of a destructive Charith Keerthisinghe spell.

Lucas Ligt and Zach Bates laid the Panthers’ path to 1/60 before Bates (16) was Keerthisinghe’s first wicket; being struck on the pads in front.

Keerthisinghe then got the big fish of Ligt (41) when he was caught by Robert Maskiell to have Devon 2/71.

And apart from crucial Lucas Carroll (33) and Tom Rowe (17 not out) knocks, no other Panther reached double digits as they were knocked over for 152 after 64.1 overs.

Keerthisinghe managed season-best figures of 6/36 from his 19.1 overs to roll the visitors.

But Devon Meadows then caught the Demons off guard as Ben Marsh picked up the wicket of Mitch Davey (0) on the second ball of the second innings.

Kooweerup was determined to get through the day without further loss, with Brannon Harrison (29 not out) and Luke McMaster (8 not out) reaching the end of day one as the Demons are 1/37.