News - Berwick Star News - 9th April 2026

Leading the way

By Jensy Callimootoo

Winning among five other nominees, Corina Dutlow took home the award for Casey’s 2026 Citizen

Her work with not-for-profit organisation, Australian-Filipino Community Services (AFCS) has spanned for more than a decade.

Starting in an admin role in 2013 as she finished her degree to now holding the chief executive seat at the organisation.

For more than 35 years, AFCS has worked as a registered charity and community service hub for the Filipino population living in Victoria.

The group offers services that are rooted in culturally appropriate holistic support to enhance the social, physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing of the community.

As Dutlow walked up the stage to claim her award, her husband and team members from AFCS ecstatically cheered her on — with nearly 100 volunteers and employees at home also rooting for her.

As she enters her third year as CEO, the young mum and mentor for so many other young Australian- Filipinos, hopes to keep creating new pathways for the organisation.

From building fresh opportunities and access to their cultural roots for Filipinos growing up in Australia, to instilling further support networks for the senior members of the community living in aged-care homes.

Grounded in her own experiences and challenges as she continues to evolve with the organisation, Dutlow’s leadership is a breath of fresh air for many.

For more on this year’s winners from Casey’s community awards, go to page 6, 7 and 11

New smart devices ban

By Jensy Callimootoo

The Allan-Labor government will be introducing a ban on smart devices in non-government schools to ensure that students can learn free from online distractions.

It follows the state’s ban of mobile phones in 2020 across government schools, with the legislative ban to include wearable devices like smart watches and wireless earbuds.

The ban in private schools is expected to take effect next year, from 28 January 2027.

Under the legislation, student’s mobile phones will have to be switched off and stored away from the first to final bell.

Notifications, cellular connection and recording functions on wearable devices will have to be switched off and usage of personal audio devices will be restricted.

Exceptions will apply for students that require devices to monitor health conditions.

Minister for Education and Deputy Premier, Ben Carroll said that this legislation would encourage students to put all their attention into their school work, leaning away from digital distractions.

“The evidence shows it worked and now we’re going further, so every Victorian student, in every Victorian school, can put their phone away and focus on learning,” he said.

Casey Grammar in Cranbourne East, has already gotten a head-start on the new ban.

At the start of 2026, the private school already took up their own initiative to ban mobile phone usage, with ample benefits already evident.

The school’s policy prohibits students from bringing any smart devices that can connect to the internet.

This encompasses smart phones, smart watches, earbuds, ear phones and any other smart devices.

While all parents have been largely supportive of the strict bans, Principal Fiona Williams, told Star News that the policy also makes room for concerned parents who may be anxious about staying in contact with their child.

“If parents are anxious about transport arrangements after school, they are permitted to provide their child with a basic phone, ” Ms Williams said.

The school ban was prompted by concern for students’ academic, social and emotional wellbeing, said Ms Williams.

“The research is conclusive: smart devices affect concentration spans as well as the structure and function of developing brains.

“They also disturb sleep which makes it hard for students to learn effectively.

“Smart devices are a source of distraction at school and a constant disruption to teaching and learning.”

“Doomscrolling takes students away from other important activities such as socialising in person, sports participation and completing homework.”

She also also cited concerns for digital bullying and inappropriate behaviours on the online sphere.

Ms Williams said that the aim was to give their students a break from their devices for at least the school duration.

Despite the ban only coming into effect in January, the first four months have seen many advantages.

From less distractions, more face-to-face interactions to more old school playground games and reading books from the library.

Ms Williams notes that the playground is noisier at recess and lunchtimes as the temptation of being stuck behind a screen is restricted.

“Recently, staff noticed a group of senior boys in the playground huddling around something they were closely examining together.,” explained Ms Williams.

“It was a stick with a bug on it! Our students are noticing a lot more of the world around them and they seem much happier for it.”

As non-government schools prepare for these changes for the 2027 school year, Ms Williams says that having open conversations with students and families can help prepare and make the transition easier for young people.

She also recommends educating older stu-

dents about the negative impacts of having a phone in their hand everyday and encourages them to go phone free for some durations during school holidays or weekends.

“Start educating parents and guardians too, so they can communicate openly with their children, and help answer any questions that may arise,” said Ms Williams.

“Talk to them about ways to use the additional time, such as developing a new skill, joining a team, working on a hobby, or spending time with their family.

“There is a deliberate societal shift away from having a smartphone constantly in hand, and schools can feel confident of the extensive research and practical guidance available as they support students through this transition.”

Springvale Divisional Response Unit charged a woman and seized a large quantity of drugs and cash in Cranbourne East in the afternoon of Thursday 2 April.

Officers executed a search warrant at the Pyrite Way address as part of an ongoing investigation at about 8.30am. The property was searched, and officers seized: ■approximately 1kg ketamine ■500g cocaine ■large amount of MDMA and diazepam

■over $160,000 (AUD) in cash.

The 24-year-old Cranbourne East woman was charged with trafficking a large commercial quantity of ketamine, trafficking a commercial quantity of cocaine, trafficking diazepam, MDMA and cannabis and dealing in property suspected

to be proceeds of crime. She was remanded into custody to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court 25 June. The estimated street value for the ketamine is approximately $40,000, and for the cocaine is approximately $175,000.

Day-long rail disruption

By Violet Li

Commuters on the Cranbourne and East Pakenham lines experienced a major disruption that stretched from the early morning into the afternoon peak on Tuesday 7 April, during the second week of free public transport.

Metro Trains advised the disruption began about 11pm on Monday night and was not fully resolved until about 4.45pm on Tuesday.

An overhead power fault near Clayton forced buses to replace trains between Oakleigh and Westall for much of the day, impacting both Metro and V/Line services.

Metro Trains advised that the power fault had nothing to do with Clayton’s Suburban Rail Loop (SRL) site.

For Pakenham commuter Ratnesh Sharma, the disruption turned a routine trip into a lengthy ordeal.

“I work in the city… normally it takes an hour, butyesterdayittookmealmosttwohours,”hesaid.

Mr Sharma said he checked the PTV app before going to the train station, and it said everything was running normally, so he went and discovered the opposite reality.

Last week, on Wednesday 1 April, thousands of morning passengers had to take replacement buses between Oakleigh and Dandenong as the Pakenham and Cranbourne lines were suspended.

When asked if he also experienced the 1 April disruption, Mr Sharma, a regular commuter, said he could not remember, but he felt like the disruption had become very common.

“I think there is a growing dissatisfaction in the community,” he said.

“People are very frustrated. If you go and check the Pakenham line, you will see that people are really very frustrated.

“People have stopped taking the train. They use their cars. But because of the petrol prices, and the diesel unavailability, I think people do not have any option but to rely on the train.

“And the train service is worse than what is available in a third-world country. It’s causing a

lot of dissatisfaction.”

Mr Sharma said the afternoon commute was even worse, with repeated unscheduled stops leaving him stuck for extended periods.

“At one point, there was an announcement just before, I don’t know which station it was, but just before that, there was an announcement that we didn’t need to take a bus. And we can stay on the train. And the train will go to Cranbourne,” he recalled.

“So, I stayed there. And then I got off at Dandenong. And from there, I switched and went to Pakenham.

“But again, it took two hours approximate-

Have say on $1m fund

By Violet Li

EPA Victoria will hold a community conference to hear community views on how to spend the $1 million that Veolia was ordered to pay over odour issues at its Hallam Road landfill.

The conference will be held on Saturday 9 May, and the registration has not yet been opened.

According to the EPA, this is the first stage of community consultation on what the funds will be used for, and at this in-person session, the EPA will share the criteria for project submissions and present examples of successful projects.

The session is run by an independent facilitator. They will provide a report to the EPA with recommendations and outcomes from the session.

EPA will make an expression of interest form for the projects available after the community conference.

A selection panel of EPA staff will recommend projects to their CEO for funding in June, according to the timeline.

The CEO makes the final decision on which project(s) are funded.

Once the agreed requirements of the project(s) are met, EPA will audit the project to confirm delivery and expenditure, and they will publish a report of their findings to ensure transparency.

The Supreme Court of Victoria ordered Veolia to make the payment into the Restorative Project Account administered by EPA Victoria in November 2025, after the company admitted breaching its licence conditions and contravention of the General Environmental Duty.

The funds are administered by EPA and must be used for one or more projects that benefit the environment and community in the area around the landfill at 274-310 Hallam Road in Hampton Park.

EPA is urging those organisations to attend the conference to hear directly from community members.

In January this year, the City of Casey received $200,000 for a revegetation scheme to provide habitat for the endangered southern brown bandicoot, funded by a restorative project order from SBI Landfill Pty Ltd.

To know more information, visit: epa.vic. gov.au/hallam-road-landfill-restorative-project

ly because of those unplanned stoppages in the train.”

Mr Sharma said he doesn’t have any option but to meet his obligation of attendance in the office.

“I can do my work remotely. I’m lucky. But there are these expectations that you need to attend the office,” he said.

Public Transport Users Association (PTUA) spokesperson Daniel Bowen said it’s “obviously incredibly disappointing” to have these regular delays on such a busy and important rail line.

“It plays havoc with people’s travel plans. Metro and the State Government need to work harder

to prevent this type of disruption,” he said.

“Whether people are regular passengers or don’t usually catch public transport and are trying out the train for the first time, this type of issue risks discouraging them from future public transport use, and pushing them back to their cars.”

According to Metro Train’s statistics, in February, the Cranbourne line achieved about 95.4 per cent of on-time rate, while the East Pakenham 95.1 per cent, both higher than the average of 94.3 per cent across all metro lines.

The State Government has announced free public transport for April, due to fuel price surge.

Diving into water safety

It was a splashing day for several Casey locals last week with many taking part in a beach water safety program designed for the multicultural community.

Now in its second year, the City of Casey’s Multicultural Water Safety Program works in partnership with Life Saving Victoria (LSV) to increase water safety capabilities and help build confidence in and around water.

The beach excursion at Aspendale Beach which took place last week, teaches safe behaviour in open water.

It also aimed to teach lifesaving knowledge involving hazards, such as rip currents, safety signs, swimming between flags and safe bodyboarding.

The beach session also works concurrently with pool-based sessions on water safety, confidence building, basic rescues and life jacket use.

According to the most recent Life Saving Victoria Drowning Report, out of the 52 people who lost their lives to drowning, 12 were known to be from multicultural communities.

Casey’s mayor, Stefan Koomen said that many from the community have embraced these initiatives.

“Council is proud to offer this valuable and literally, life-saving program which has already seen hundreds of Casey residents take part,” he said.

“We know that tragically, a high proportion of drownings that have occurred in recent years are people from a multicultural back-

ground with limited experience of water safety, particularly in and around the ocean.

“Residents who have taken part in this pro-

gram have told us they are more confident about visiting the beach or pool thanks to the practical skills they have learned as part of this

$1m jackpot for Endeavour Hills resident

A lucky Endeavour Hills night shift worker clocked off the job last night with an extra $1 million in his bank account.

The man was the only division one winning entry nationally in the Weekday Windfall draw on Wednesday 1 April.

When asked what was on the cards, the dad said his prize would go towards his home loan as well as a new house with a swimming pool for his children and perhaps even a holiday.

“Oh my god, I’m about to have a heart attack!” he said

“I’ve just stepped out of work. I’d just finished my night shift and walked out the door when you rang me. What a surprise!

program, skills that could one day save a life.”

To find more information on this program, go to lsv.com.au

“I might even take a little break and have a holiday too.

“Normally, I’d go home from work and sleep, but I don’t think I’ll sleep today!

Plastics manufacturers hit

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Plastic packaging manufacturers have just “weeks” of polymer resin stocks due to disrupted supply chains from the Middle East war.

South-Eastern Metropolitan MP David Limbrick told State Parliament on 31 March it was an “urgent issue” that could lead to job losses and shortages of medicines and essential supermarket items.

He said he was alerted by a South-East manufacturer that “we may only have two or three months supply for the raw materials used in blow moulds, including polyethylene”

Polyethylene is commonly used in plastic bottles for consumer goods, such as shampoo, detergents, food and shrink wrap as well as plastic pipes.

“A lot of people probably don’t know that a large amount of our plastic containers and packaging is made in Australia using imported materials,” Mr Limbrick later told Star News.

“Disruption to the supply of these materials is not just a problem for the manufacturers.

“This could cause massive disruption for farmers, supermarkets, chemists and many other industries.”

The Victorian Libertarians leader said the issue had “gone under the radar” but the “clock is ticking”

“I am encouraged that since I made the speech, government officials have started talking to manufacturers.

“We need them to ensure trade channels are open with the US so we can get a shipment of polymers to Australia as soon as possible.”

A South-East manufacturer said their supplier told them they couldn’t guarantee resin supplies, due to Asian countries withholding resins soon after the Iran war started on 28 February.

The company has since scrambled to source polymer resins from the US.

The manufacturer hoped this was a “wakeup call” for the Government to rebuild sovereign capability, given six of eight domestic oil

refineries had closed over the past two decades.

“I think they’re all ears. I think they’ve had the scare of their life. This is the biggest impact on the petrofuel industry that Australia has experienced.

“We knocked out six refineries because it was too costly to upgrade them. Well, how costly is it now, when we can’t produce diesel and resins for our own livelihoods?”

South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance chief executive Honi Walker called for action from state Industry Minister Colin Brooks and federal Industry Minister Tim Ayres to address supplies. She agreed it was an issue of “sovereign capability” , and called for manufacturing to be elevated to an “essential service” – like it was during the Covid pandemic.

“We face serious consequences of product spoiling, rotting and wasting at farm gates and food processing sites because it can’t be packaged.

“Current polymer stocks are maintained on a ‘just in time’ basis as we no longer manufacture polymer here in Australia since (polyethylene manufacturer) Qenos in Altona was forced to close due to the high cost of gas and no government assistance.

“Australia’s sovereign supply chain must be protected without delay.”

Victorian Industry and Advanced Manufacturing Minister Colin Brooks is set to host an industry roundtable with plastics manufacturers on 14 April to discuss the impacted supply chains, a spokesperson said.

Mr Brooks was also raising their concerns “directly with the Commonwealth”

“In Victoria, we’re also taking practical steps now – including free public transport for April, helping take pressure off fuel demand and freeing up supply for the industries that rely on it.”

Australia is at Level 2 of the National Fuel Security Plan, meaning supply was secure but with some localised disruptions.

At this level, governments take precautionary action such as engaging with trade partners to shore up domestic supply.

According to the State Government, fuel is arriving in Australia in the “expected” quantities and frequency, with shipments already on the way in coming weeks.

A Federal Government spokesperson said it was bringing forward $6.15 billion through the National Reconstruction Fund to support Australian businesses hit by global supply chain disruption.

“We are accelerating all three NRF sub-funds to get capital moving faster, including zero-interest loans for manufacturers involved in critical supply chains.

“This is about stabilising supply chains today and building Australia’s industrial strength for the future.”

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Corina’s dedication

By Jensy Callimootoo

More than a decade has passed since Corina Dutlow first took up a part-time position at the Australian-Filipino Community Service (AFCS).

But sitting at her desk at a Doveton church, the now CEO of the non-profit, has a plethora of skills and life experience up her sleeves and she’s ready to pass it on to the new generation.

In recognition of her work and service, on Friday March 27, Dutlow was called up on stage at Bunjil Place to claim the award for this year’s Casey’s Citizen of the Year.

Describing the walk up to seize the title, she says it was like being “put in slow motion”

But upon reflection, it was a welcomed recognition.

“It was very validating to know that not just my team is doing an amazing job but also me as an individual,” she said.

“Sometimes at that level, you don’t really have people telling you how you’re doing.

“It’s kind of lonely, so to get that external recognition that ‘hey, you know, you’re on the right track, keep doing what you’re doing’ , it was very encouraging.”

The AFCS was founded in 1991 by volunteers, as a not-for-profit organisation, aiming to serve the Filipino community in Victoria. Its intention was to help families and women who are experiencing crises as well as aiding newly arrived families and individuals to adjust to life in Australia.

In the 35 years since its inception, through a connection of culture, customs, language, food and familiarity, the charity has expanded its capabilities — from aged care services, dementia support to charity meals and wellness calls.

The group has also just recently expanded its initiatives to New South Wales.

Dutlow’s work at AFSC first began when she was 19 years old, fresh out of high school she had little ambition to enter the non-profit sector with a career in speech pathology in her eyeline.

But after a stint at developing a social project,

a drive to serve her community was sparked.

“I put on this activity for them and I just saw their faces, I saw how thankful they were and how much it meant to them in that moment,” she said.

“I created this and I was able to actually help someone.

“I think it was empowering for them, which then empowered me to be like ‘oh, your ideas are validating, your ideas matter and can help people’,”

Dutlow first took the role of chief executive

in 2023, three years on, she worked tirelessly to create new opportunities, gather funding and initiate new services.

Amid the lessons and growth, Dutlow also cites periods of challenges, with societal roadblocks at play, from intergenerational challenges to gendered barriers.

“I’ve come a long way but it hasn’t been easy,” Dutlow told Star News.

“It’s nice now I’m not the youngest in the room but for the longest time I was.

“My ideas would get shut down and tackling

that in the community has been challenging.

“Whether it’s a gender thing, there have been those situations where they thought I was just the young girl, that I didn’t know what I was talking about,”

“So there’s a lot of challenges that I’ve had to face and overcome.

“And I’m going to work hard to make sure that that doesn’t happen to other younger leaders or others that want to just help out.”

As she continues to set her mark, the start of 2026 brought with it fresh opportunities.

With a team of three young individuals by her side, the community leader travelled to the Philippines for 10 days — which she says was a life-long dream.

“It’s been in my heart for such a long time to create a trip that brings young Aussie Filipinos to the Philippines to essentially be immersed in the Filipino culture,” she said.

For Dutlow, with a new accord under her belt, her achievements have long been shaped by AFCS and in turn, she hopes to do the same for those that follow.

Growing up with the organisation, the now CEO often navigates her era in the leadership seat by mirroring her own mentors.

“It (AFCS) needs to be a place where it is welcoming, kind and flexible to be able to harness people’s talents and what they can bring to the table, not focussing on what they can’t bring to the table or their limitations,” she said.

“I really love what I do and I’m excited for the future of AFCS”

Looking into the looking glass for the next three years, Dutlow hopes to target pockets of her community across the country that might not know AFCS exists.

With one guiding phrase in mind, the young CEO also hopes to help young Filipinos garner the confidence they need to take up space while still having a claim on their heritage.

“One community leader, she said to me, ‘a good leader doesn’t just open doors, but holds the door open for others to come through.’” Dutlow said.

New milestone for Australian-Filipino community group

By Jensy Callimootoo

The Australian-Filipino Community Services (AFCS) has been named Community Group of the Year at the 2026 awards marking a significant milestone for an organisation built on grassroots connection and cultural care.

For the team behind AFCS, the recognition is more than just a title, it is a powerful affirmation of their work within the community, says chief executive, Corina Dutlow.

“It was a humbling award to receive that recognition,” she said.

“Sometimes we all sort of just put our heads down and work and serve in the community and don’t take much time to look up and see the impact.”

She describes the award as a source of encouragement, particularly in a sector that often deals with complex and emotionally demanding cases.

“It’s that validation,” Dutlow said.

Noting that the acknowledgment reassures staff and volunteers that their efforts are both seen and valued by the wider community.

In reflection of that hard work, nestled in a church in Doveton, a team of five devoted employees sit at their desks in the early hours of a Tuesday morning tirelessly working for their Filipino community.

From aged-care and dementia support, family crisis support to creating intentional and holistic activities for youths and adults.

The organisation has grown rapidly as a response to increased demand, now supported by more than 50 volunteers and over 60 staff members, with a significant growth in the last decade.

“It’s grown, sometimes, you’re like how did we grow that fast?,” said Dutlow.

The services were first initiated in 1991 by a handful of “driven volunteers” whose only goal was to serve their community, says the CEO.

Rather than a top-down approach, AFCS emphasises participation at every level, encouraging volunteers and staff to contribute ideas and share skills — a sentiment championed by the executive board.

The award also highlights the importance of culturally specific services with AFCS becoming a vital resource for Filipino-Australians, offer-

Amazing young volunteer

By Violet Li

Casey’s 2026 Young Citizen of the Year, Bailey Ogden, has been recognised for his wide-ranging contributions to the community, from performing arts to wildlife conservation across the region.

Bailey, who has autism, described it as his “superpower” , something that allows him to focus deeply on the things he cares about most.

His passions span very different worlds: performing arts and wildlife conservation.

His journey on stage began at just nine years old with the local theatre group BATS.

“I joined BATS because back in primary school, I didn’t have much to do,” Bailey recalled.

“I was getting quite bored. I wasn’t really into sports either, so I noticed one of my friends was doing theatre.

“So, I decided to join them at BATS and have been there ever since and am still doing acting with them.”

What started as a way to fill time quickly became something much more.

“I started off just being a background… no words, just ran across the stage,” Bailey recalled.

Over the years, he built his portfolio step by step, from small roles to speaking parts, and now, he leads performances.

This year, in May, he will perform his first lead role in Game of Tiaras, produced by BATS, which combines the plot twists of Game of Thrones and Shakespearean tragedy.

Supported by mentors, including Bridie Clark, the president of BATS, and his family, Bailey has expanded his skills across singing, dancing and acting, even exploring Shakespeare and preparing to audition for broader theatre opportunities. Off the stage, Bailey is a familiar figure in local animal welfare circles.

After completing a 12-week program with the Mornington Peninsula Wildlife Project, he was invited to stay on as a volunteer, working as a tour guide and helping care for animals at a rescue farm.

He later completed a zoology qualification, finishing an 18-month course in just 10 months with a 98.5 per cent pass rate, specialising in reptiles and amphibians.

“He’s identified an endangered red goshawk in Cranbourne that is not meant to be in Victoria, and that’s being reported to the zoo,” mother Kristie Odgen said.

“He’s rescued possums and birds and anything else that the neighbours tell us needs rescuing.

“He always thinks about animals. Like, we went for a respite thing down to Phillip Island. And within the first couple of hours, he found a deceased seal on the beach. So, he waited till they came and collected it.

“Then he was moving echidnas off the road. He was moving ducks off the road.”

Looking ahead, Bailey said he’s determined to continue to pursue animal conservation in the future.

“We’re losing a lot of our native wildlife,” he said.

“A lot of people aren’t going to get to see [them] unless something’s done about it.”

Kristie said Bailey eventually wanted to create his own sanctuary, while also speaking to local students about protecting wildlife and pursuing their passions.

The Cranbourne local said he was “completely shocked” when he learned that he won the Casey Young Citizen of the Year.

“I knew I had stiff competition, so I wasn’t re-

ally expecting to get it at all,” he said.

“Because I don’t do volunteering for the recognition. I do it because I enjoy helping other people.”

The award has meant a lot to him.

“It means that I’m able to expand on what I’m doing and give a voice to help not only the animals but also help people understand what the environment is going through,” Bailey said.

“And promote that even if people have a disability, they can do what they want.

“They can do amazing things.

“Always find the good things in your life and find something to do.

“Explore around, find what ignites your passion. Because there’s always something out there for everyone.”

Hallam CFA member earns top Casey honour

By Violet Li

Long-time Hallam CFA volunteer Graham Lovett has been named Casey’s Senior Citizen of the Year for 2026, recognised for nearly six decades of service with the Country Fire Authority and ongoing community work across the region.

“I was shocked,” the 78-year-old recalled his reaction when he won the awards.

“I thought somebody else would have got it before I would have got it.”

Graham’s contribution spans nearly six decades with the CFA, beginning as a young man of about 20, following in the footsteps of his father, who was a brigade captain.

What started as a family tradition has grown into a lifelong commitment, with Graham now mentoring new recruits, running school programs and maintaining vital fire equipment for his brigade.

“It’s rewarding to just help the community,” he said.

Graham’s CFA journey has taken him across multiple brigades, including Narbethong, Doveton and now Hallam, where he has served for more than two decades.

Over the years, he has responded to “countless” emergencies, from house fires and factory blazes to car accidents, and travelled interstate multiple times to assist with major bushfires in New South Wales and Tasmania.

Beyond emergency response, his commitment extends into everyday community support. He volunteers two half-days each week with The Salvation Army. Service, it seems, runs deep in the Graham’s family.

His daughter now serves as captain of the Hallam brigade, while his son is a lieutenant.

Like many long-serving volunteers, Graham acknowledged the challenges of the role, including the emotional toll and the unpredictability of callouts, even during family occasions.

“You’d leave Christmas dinner when the pager goes off,” he said.

“There probably are (incidents that stood out), but over the years, you just forget about them.”

Having witnessed decades of change in firefighting practices, Graham said safety had become a greater priority over time.

“The bridge is always changing. Things change. The way we do things has changed in a big way over the years,” he said.

“And now it’s sort of safety is first. Look after yourself first.”

For Graham, it is the people who have made the decades of service worthwhile.

“It’s the friendship with everybody,” he said.

“The way we attack grass fires is that we would sort of wait for the fires to come out before we attack them. Years ago, we used to go into the bush and put them out.

“Everybody looks after everybody.”

FOCUS ON … EDUCATION CHOICES

AAA achievers program

St Francis Xavier College is offering a new opportunity for academically motivated students with its Advanced Academic Achievement (AAA) Program, beginning in Year 7.

Designed for high-achieving students who are eager to challenge themselves, the AAA Program provides enriched learning experiences that go beyond the standard curriculum.

The initiative aims to support students who demonstrate strong academic ability, curiosity, and a passion for deeper learning.

The program focuses on developing critical and creative thinking skills through extension

activities, collaborative projects, and complex problem-solving tasks. Students are encouraged to explore ideas in greater depth, engage with challenging concepts, and build confidence in their academic abilities.

The AAA Program brings together like-minded learners in a supportive and stimulating environment, allowing students to both challenge and learn from one another.

It complements the College’s existing curriculum while giving students the opportunity to further pursue their academic interests.

St Francis Xavier College emphasises that

We encourage every student to pursue excellence in all endeavours and aim to ensure every student achieves their best potential so they are ready - not just for the completion of their use the QR Code.

the program is part of its broader commitment to helping every student reach their full potential. With dedicated teaching staff and a strong focus on curiosity, effort, and collaboration, the College aims to develop confident thinkers and lifelong learners within a faith-centred community.

Applications for the 2027 intake are now open, with families encouraged to contact the College for further information 97073111 or access the application form online.

Funding rejected for job program

By Sahar Foladi

A service provider for women in the South East is challenging the refusal of funding that would help 30 vulnerable women into jobs.

Wellsprings for Women has written to the federal Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, Amanda Rishworth, expressing disappointment and seeking her assistance for a review.

Wellsprings CEO Dalal Smiley says it had been confident in securing a grant from the government’s $10 million fund as it ticked all the boxes.

“By rejecting our application, 30 women from migrant and refugee backgrounds, whose only hope to earn their money and be financially independent, have been let down again by a system that fails to give them an opportunity. A system that is steeped in bureaucratic processes, that fails to think outside the box.

“The error might be in the form of unconscious bias that fails to be flexible in addressing the challenges that keep women in poverty.

“Securing employment for women like our clients is not solved through mainstream one-sizefits-all approaches.

“I find that a rejection based on a very vague explanation needs to be challenged.”

The grant application was under the Local Jobs, Local People program run by the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations.

The $10 million initiative supports activities that help people into employment, training and building pathways across the country. The grant range is typically from $50,000 to $250,000.

While Ms Smiley understands the competitive nature of funding, she is highly confident in the success rate of their proposed project, especially after they consulted “key decision makers”

A spokesperson for the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations says it doesn’t comment on the assessment of individual applications.

“The Local Jobs, Local People grant round was highly competitive and attracted strong interest from community organisations across the country.

“Applications were assessed independently and fairly against eligibility and assessment criteria.”

Successful applicants will be published on the department’s website once finalised.

Ms Smiley wrote to Ms Rishworth in February and is yet to hear from her office.

If approved, this project would have trained 30 women as nail technicians and makeup artists to further their skills and establish them as sole traders.

It sought to minimise many of the barriers faced by vulnerable refugee and migrant women, such as trauma, children, lack of support, and incompatible work hours.

Ms Smiley says this was explored as an option

last year after long consultation with the women and the employment sector.

“The course included retail skills, product knowledge, customer service, and more.

“While Chisholm does the training, our role would be to offer the women one-to-one support during the course and after they graduate to help them transition to employment.

“We believe that migrant and refugee women who face language and cultural barriers, family violence, homelessness, in securing employment require a tailored approach that combines education, confidence-building skills assessment, trauma-informed approach, and dedicated case work support in identifying jobs, applying and securing work, and also retaining a job post-employment.”

From 2021-’23 the organisation provided employment support to 249 migrant and refugee women, of which 70 per cent secured jobs and 30

per cent improved job readiness. This was supported by state government funding.

After the funding ceased, the organisation applied to philanthropic organisations such as Scanlon Foundation for $70,000 over 18 months to continue their intensive case work, build links with employers, and provide the women seeking work with additional support from a mentor.

Currently, due to a lack of funding streams, Wellsprings says it’s unable to meet existing demands with only 20 trained mentors and 12 clients.

Meanwhile, critics are questioning the federal government’s $1.5 million Dandenong Employment Hub, which they say doesn’t guarantee any jobs for jobseekers. The hub is said to act as a “connector service” between job seekers and employers in the region.

Casey school shifts focus on neurodiversity awareness for change

By Jensy Callimootoo

A school in Casey is taking a more meaningful approach to neurodiversity education, shifting the focus from simple awareness to genuine understanding and inclusion.

Students at Australian Christian College Casey recently took part in a school-wide Neurodiversity Awareness Day, with the event reflecting a growing recognition in schools that inclusion is not just about accommodation, but about understanding prolonged by meaningful change.

With this in mind, the school placed a strong emphasis on student voice, particularly among senior students, inviting them to explore what neurodiversity looks like in everyday life.

Classrooms became spaces for open dialogue, where students could share perspectives and reflect on how they support one another, extending the impact well beyond a single event.

The event also saw students and staff wearing hoodies as part of the ‘Hoodie Up for Autism’ campaign, raising funds and awareness for autism support.

Younger students also played a key role in shaping the day’s message with a prep performance titled, ‘I Am Wonderfully Made’ which highlighted themes of individuality and belonging, reinforcing the idea that differences are something to be embraced.

One of the most impactful moments came from a staff member who shared her lived expe-

Vital funds for food relief

By Jensy Callimootoo

The Labor Government has announced it will deliver an immediate $2.7 million for food relief organisations doing it tough amid the rising cost of living.

Foodbank, who called on the government for more funding on 17 March, will receive $900,000 to keep food moving and frontline services equipped.

OzHarvest, which facilitates daily community food drop offs, soup kitchens and grocery pickup around Casey, will be receiving $200,000 to rescue and redistribute surplus food.

Victorian Sikh Gurdwaras Council, Sikh Volunteers Australia, Gurduara Council of Victoria and Australian Sikh Support will share in $200,000 to continue their services.

Community Information & Support Victoria (CISVic) are often a first port of call for families who need support and they’ll receive $100,000 to keep supporting families.

Premier Jacinta Allan said that this funding will be aiding frontline services to in turn, help families.

“No family should ever have to worry about where their next meal is coming from,” the Premier said.

“It won’t solve every problem but it’s immediate help we can provide right now to people who need it most.”

Last week, Star News reported that local Casey not-for-profits were facing mounting pressure as demand for aid continues to grow as more households struggle with food insecurity.

Vinnies Soup Van, said the current deepening fuel crisis was impacting their ability to efficiently carry out the charity’s purpose. Including the impacts of fuel levies.

Melbourne’s OzHarvest, who does extensive work across The City of Casey to tackle growing food insecurity in the region, has also been feeling the impacts of the global conflict on fuel.

An OzHarvest spokesperson said that with 13 vans on the road across Victoria, coupled with diesel prices soaring by 40 per cent — the money going into fuel stock means money being taken out of the food budget.

And as fuel costs continue to increase, food insecurity and demand on food relief organisations is likely to grow.

“We know demand for food relief is the canary in the coal mine for household economic stress – the impact of fuel costs on already tight household budgets means that food is often the first thing to go,” the spokesperson said.

“The charities we support on the frontline are constantly seeing new people seeking help for the first time and any time costs rise, demand grows.”

With the newly announced government funding, OzHarvest says it’s a “good starting point” , but that more action is needed.

rience with an acquired brain injury.

Her story offered students a personal lens on neurological difference, along with practical guidance on how to show understanding and support in everyday interactions.

Teachers continued these conversations in classrooms through age-appropriate discussions and reflective activities, helping students engage more deeply with the topic.

One student in Year 9 described the experience as eye-opening.

“It helped me realise that everyone’s brain works differently and that this is a good thing rather than something to hide,” they said.

A staff member also echoed this sentiment, saying initiatives like this help young people move beyond awareness toward empathy and kindness.

The inclusive event also garnered support from caretakers, with one parent saying that the day signalled a broader cultural shift.

“It is encouraging to see the school not only acknowledge neurodiversity but celebrate it in a way that includes every child,” they said.

This includes systemic solutions to address food insecurity to ensure households “do not get left behind in the development of the first National Food Security Strategy”

“The government must address the core drivers of food insecurity through income support and housing,” they said.

“And look at immediate support for supporting kids through the provision of meals in the school system.”

Drenched in Colour Run fun

Students at Devon Meadows Primary School were splashed with colour and laughter during a Colour Run held on 30 March.

The day saw children dashing around the course as clouds of coloured powder filled the air, creating a festive atmosphere for families and staff.

The Colour Run was hailed as a highlight of the term, bringing the school community together and leaving students with bright smiles and even brighter memories.

Push for new theatre

By Violet Li

Cranbourne’s BATS Theatre Company is calling for urgent investment in a new local theatre, warning that a lack of facilities is forcing aspiring performers to travel long distances or miss out entirely.

Non-profit organisation BATS and Australian Dance Project (ADP), both led by local Bridie Clark, a former Broadway performer, have proposed a dedicated Community Performing Arts Hub and Community Theatre at 8 Gordon Street in Cranbourne to the Casey Council and the State Government.

The privately owned site is currently occupied by a large warehouse, which is available for lease.

Volunteer Debbie Jenkins, who also makes costumes for BATS productions, said the groups had been trying to secure the lease but had not yet engaged with Casey’s planning department, as they believed securing funding was the priority.

However, the groups have presented the proposal to the Casey Councillors and the State’s Minister for Creative Industries, Colin Brooks.

According to the proposal, the project will turn the existing warehouse into an arts facility comprising a flexible black box theatre with up to 150 seats, three to five multi-purpose studios, and a central hub for creative programming and community engagement.

The one-off fit-out costs are estimated to be up to $695,000, annual operating costs up to $264,000, and annual revenue projections up to $587,000.

“Our biggest issue is that, being a volunteer, not-for-profit, it takes us a lot to fundraise that kind of money,” Ms Jenkins said.

“And no major grants that will cover anything that big.

“Casey Council has to make it like a legacy project, but we understand that they may have other priorities that they want as a legacy. And we get that.

“But the sad thing is that Cranbourne is lacking this sort of development, so that the kids of Casey can have somewhere to go to express themselves and get visible.”

Currently, limited access to venues means many local performing arts students must travel into Melbourne, and beyond, for training, Ms Jenkins said.

“There is no actual facility built for dance for full-timers. They can’t study in their home area. They have to be on the train,” she said.

“Some of the kids are getting up at 6am to get into studios at 8am. It’s hard on them and hard on their parents.

“We’ve had full-time students come and say, can you do anything to help us? And Bridie (the president)’s gone, I have the ability for the courses. I have all the paperwork for the courses. But I cannot get a venue to put in the courses from 8am to 5pm.”

Closer to home, existing venues are often fully booked or expensive for community groups.

BATS regularly uses facilities at The Factory in Cranbourne, but availability is limited, while larger venues such as Bunjil Place are priced beyond reach.

Ms Jenkins said the demand for a dedicated performing arts space extended well beyond BATS and ADP, with many cultural and community groups across Casey struggling to find affordable venues.

“We’ve already got three dance schools that have gone: ‘we would definitely be coming in and hiring’,” she said.

“We’ve got a couple of Bollywood schools that would look at doing their concerts. I know the Polynesian group would love to showcase their culture. There are community groups that cannot perform because they can’t afford the venues.

“We’ve got companies in the theatre world that have gone, ‘if you get it up and running, we’ll donate the trustees to you. We’ll donate lighting to you. We’ll donate time to you to get the building set up right.’

“It would be great if the Council could put this on their legacy list, but I know that they do have other priorities. But it does get a bit sad when it’s always that Casey seems to think it needs to be sports orientated, with 75 per cent of Casey children doing some form of dance, Hollywood, callisthenics, gymnastics.”

City of Casey Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen said

BATS wins top honour

By Violet Li

Cranbourne-based community theatre group BATS has won the Lindsay King Award at the 2026 Casey Community Awards.

For long-time volunteer Debbie Jenkins, the win came as a complete surprise.

“When they announced that BATS was the winner… we were absolutely gobsmacked,” she said.

“After 38 years, BATS has finally been recognised for what it does in the community.”

According to the Council, BATS has fostered creativity and inclusion in Casey for more than three decades, offering accessible youth theatre programs and opportunities for people of all abilities.

“Entirely volunteer-run, the company supports members on stage and behind the scenes and leads initiatives, such as the Dylans Wings of Change program,” Council stated.

The group has been led by Bridie Clark, a former Broadway performer, who won the award last year.

According to Debbie, from actors and directors to costume makers, stage managers and parents helping behind the scenes, BATS relies on a broad network of community support.

Council would not be able to fund the project.

“Over the years, Council has supported BATS Theatre through multiple Council grants, demonstrating our strong and ongoing commitment to their work,” he said.

“We understand the challenges local creative groups can face in accessing affordable and suitable spaces.

“However, as the proposal works relate to a privately owned warehouse, Council would be unable to fund the infrastructure components of this proposal.

“Council’s Capital Works program funds projects at Council-owned or managed facilities or sites with formal agreements that guarantee long-term community access. This ensures public funds are invested in assets that remain accessible and protected over time.”

Mayor Cr Koomen said Council recognises the important contribution groups like BATS Theatre make to the local arts and cultural community.

“Their recent success at the Casey Community Awards reflects the strong connection they have built with audiences and the value they bring to our community,” he said.

“Council continues to welcome grant applications from BATS Theatre to support its programs and activities through programs such as the Community Grants Program and the Creative & Cultural Development Fund.”

Minister for Creative Industries Colin Brooks said BATS had been serving the community and supporting young people to build confidence, connections and creative skills since 1989.

“It was wonderful to meet the team and hear about their plans for the future,” he said.

He advised that any funding requests would be considered in the context of priorities from across the creative industries and all portfolio areas statewide.

He has also asked Creative Victoria to engage with the local council to see if it has policies around affordable community access to existing performance and rehearsal spaces.

Ms Jenkins also shared that BATS’ next production, Game of Tiaras, would be staged in Clayton in the upcoming May after being unable to secure a suitable venue locally.

Depending on the production, volunteer numbers can grow from around 30 to more than 100 people.

The group produces about three shows a year, including its popular Musical In A Week program, where young performers learn and stage a full production in just six days.

“Bridie will tell you that in professional theatre, you have eight weeks, 9am till 5pm to learn a musical before it opens its doors on Broadway,”Debbiesaid.

“She’s been in that world. She’s been in those catapults with 2,000 dancers and singers.

“She knows, and she teaches them this is whatyourcareerpathisgoingtobe.

“You need to learn to be quick, think and get to know because you could be in the chorusline,andthenextday,youcouldbeaswing foralead.”

Alongside this, BATS runs junior productions and larger musical theatre shows, giving performers of all ages a chance to take the stage.

Beyond performance, BATS has built a reputation for inclusivity, particularly for young people who may not feel welcome in traditionalartsenvironments.

“We have a diversity policy in place… we have people with disabilities on our committee,”Debbiesaid.

Many participants, including 2026 Casey Young Citizen of the Year Bailey Ogden, have grown through the program, finding confidenceandcommunitythroughtheatre.

“When we messaged everybody that we’d won the award, all our volunteers were like, ‘ Ohmygod,”Debbierecalled.

“It’sallaboutthepeoplethatcomeandput these shows on, the people that work at The Belfry, the people that are behind the scenes that are there all the time, the moms and dads thatdothedropoff.”

BATS’snextproductionGameofTiaraswill be on stage from 7 May to 16 May at Clayton Theatre. To book a ticket: trybooking.com/ events/landing/1536089

Celebrating nature

Despite the cloudy sky and brisk air on the evening of Tuesday 7 April, Casey locals showed up in numbers for a Nature at Dusk event at Wilson Botanic Park. The event celebrated and recognised the significance of people, plants and place in the City of Casey. Those who attended had the opportunity to experience live music, nature walks, rock painting, self-guided nature journaling, and seek and find turtle scavenger hunt activities. Most noticeably, locals had the chance to see the new long-neck turtle sculpture installation and discover the park’s new nature play cubby house.

Drug import conspiracy

Two Cranbourne men have been charged for their alleged links to a syndicate behind a largescale conspiracy to import tonnes of illicit drugs into Victoria and traffic drugs around the country.

A 45-year-old man from Cranbourne West and a 38-year-old man from Cranbourne South are among nine men charged following a 10-month investigation into an alleged drug importation syndicate.

The investigation, known as Operation Bruce Cremorne, began in May 2025, when four crew members were rescued after a commercial trawler sank off the coast of Port Albert, Victoria.

The JOCTF began monitoring the movements of the crew due to suspicions about why the vessel had travelled out to sea in bad weather without the equipment usually required for commercial fishing.

Over the following months, police undertook surveillance of multiple local boat crews suspected to be linked to a drug importation syndicate.

It is alleged that the syndicate made multiple attempts to travel into Bass Strait to launch suspected ‘daughter vessels’ to travel to a predetermined drop zone to receive significant quantities of illicit drugs from a ‘mother ship’ passing through Australian waters.

The syndicate was unsuccessful in alleged attempts to facilitate any such transfer, and no importation occurred.

The Victorian Police executed rolling search warrants over the past month across the Victorian suburbs of Morwell, Glenroy, Cranbourne, Cranbourne West, Cranbourne South and Greenvale.

A further warrant was executed in the Sydney suburb of St Clair.

As part of this sweeping operational activity, eight men were arrested in Victoria, and one man was arrested in Sydney. Seven of the men were arrested for their alleged roles in a conspiracy to import illicit drugs, while two were solely charged for their alleged involvement in illicit drug trafficking activity.

Four of the men were also charged in con-

nection with the seizure of 30kg of methamphetamine by the WA JOCTF in Perth on 11 August, 2025, and the seizure of 41kg of cocaine by the Victoria Police Viper Taskforce at Barnawartha in regional Victoria days later (13 August, 2025).

It will be alleged that these seizures in Western Australia and Victoria are connected to the criminal syndicate, which exploited trucking industry connections to facilitate the movement of illicit drugs between Australian states.

Investigations into the international syndicate behind an alleged mothership attempting to drop illicit cargo into Australian waters remain ongoing, and further arrests have not been ruled out.

The Cranbourne West man faced several seri-

ous charges, including attempting to import and possess 600kg of cocaine, trafficking a commercial quantity of methamphetamine, and conspiracy to import up to 3.5 tonnes of cocaine.

He has been remanded in custody to next appear before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 28 July, 2026.

The Cranbourne South man was charged with attempting to import and possess 600kg of cocaine, as well as conspiracy to import a commercial quantity of drugs.

He has been released on bail to next appear before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 28 July, 2026.

Operation Bruce Cremorne was run by the Victorian Joint Organised Crime Taskforce

(JOCTF), which includes the

Victoria Police Detective Superintendent Dave Cowan said: “As emphasised by police many times before, there is absolutely a level of concern that the appetite for drugs in Australia is so high that we become a favourable location for these organised crime syndicates.”

“As is startlingly clear, the damage caused by the use of illicit substances ripples throughout the community, and it does not just affect those using the drug. There have been many lives forever changed and ruined simply by their sheer misfortune of encountering someone who chose to take an illegal substance,” Det Supt Cowan said.

Fuel excise cuts in force

By Jensy Callimootoo

Free transport, excise cuts, working from home and small business support packages – the Federal and State governments have pulled out nearly all stops to navigate the soaring fuel costs propelled by the Middle-East and Washington conflict.

Despite the distance, in Melbourne’s SouthEast corridors like Casey and Cardinia Shire, commuters, business owners and farmers have all been impacted.

The Victorian state government has made public transport free for a month and has also urged those who can, to work from home to save on petrol.

On Monday 30 March, the price of diesel in much of Victoria sat just over $3 with unleaded 91 priced over $2.50 around Casey — pinching already tight pockets for many households.

That same day, the Commonwealth announced a four-stage national strategy and their plan to cut down the fuel excise for three months.

Officially adopted on Wednesday 1 April, consumers and motorists saw a 50 per cent cut to the fuel excise – bringing down the fuel excise by 26.3 cents per litre from 52.6 cents per litre.

In speaking to Star News, Monash University’s Econometrics and Business Statistics professor, Roberts Brooks answered some questions about what this means for future markets and consumers:

What is the fuel excise?

The fuel excise is a levy by the Australian government on petrol and diesel bought at the bowser.

This federal flat sales tax goes into the Government’s general revenue, which is then used to fund our transport infrastructure.

Typically, the excise goes up twice a year, in February and August and will move upward to

align with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) — in early February 2026, before the conflict began, the excise went up to 52.6 cents per litre.

In halving the excise, Treasurer Jim Chalmers said the cuts would save a 65L tank vehicle about $19.

Also impacted is the heavy-vehicle charge, which has been reduced to 0 from 32.4 cents per litre.

This applies to vehicles like buses, coaches and trucks.

On top of the federal cuts, state and territories have agreed to use extra GST revenue to further reduce the petrol tax for consumers.

This will include a cut of 6 cents per litre — delivering a total reduction of 32 cents per litre for the next three months.

Has the government reduced the fuel excise before?

Yes, when Russia attacked Ukraine in early February of 2022, global markets were similarly impacted, fuel prices surged and electricity bills soared.

At that time, the Morrison government halved the excise for a six-month period from March 2022 to September 2022.

According to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), in the weeks after the fuel excise was cut, daily average petrol prices fell by at least 39 cents per litre in Melbourne and other metropolitan areas across the country.

“The last time the fuel excise was cut in 2022 we saw a rapid response in fuel prices and a very strong pass through,” said Prof Brooks.

“We should expect the same again, though it is worth noting that international price movements will likely play a major role after that immediate impact.”

For motorists to fully benefit from the excise, petrol stations will first need to sell the fuel they

had paid for at the full rate of excise – this will be dependent on the turnover of fuel.

For those in regional areas, the rippled benefits may take longer to work through the system.

At the time of writing, on 8 April, a week since the excise cuts took effect, a slight decrease in fuel prices have been noted.

Around Casey, Cardinia Shire and Greater Dandenong the lowest cost of unleaded 91 sits at $2.23 cents per litre. This is in comparison to last week’s $2.29 cents per litre.

Last week diesel prices sat between $2.98$3.29 across different service stations, today it sits between $3.09 - $3.25 cents per litre.

Are there any risks to cutting the fuel excise?

Prof Brooks says that following the 2022 fuel excise reduction, as the cuts worked its way through the system, temporary cost of living relief was evident to consumers.

Drawing on analysis previously conducted by the ACCC, Prof Brooks, noted that when the fuel excise was temporarily reduced in 2022, the vast majority of the savings were passed on directly to consumers.

However, he does highlight that cheaper fuel could free up household budgets and encourage additional discretionary spending, potentially adding to inflationary pressures. The economist acknowledged this risk but suggested it is likely being overstated in the current environment.

With global oil prices driving petrol costs higher, any reduction in excise would more likely offset existing price pressures rather than create a sense of surplus among consumers.

In this context, households are unlikely to view the savings as a windfall to be spent freely, particularly given already subdued consumer sentiment.

Ultimately, while there is some risk that increased spending could add marginal inflationary pressure, the economist argued this is proba-

Children’s books rereleased for local author

By Carmela Mendoza

Endeavour Hills author and retired teacher Grace Nolan is releasing a second edition of her book series One to Ten and Back Again. The books were originally published in 2021 but “unfortunately the children’s books were right through Covid so they didn’t get much of a chance,” Grace said.

“It’s lovely that they are re-released now so they can get another chance.”

This latest edition features hard covers to improve product quality and durability.

“The publishers approached me to re-release this year and I was so thrilled because I thought they were over and done with,” she said.

bly limited under current conditions.

The broader policy question for the government, he suggested, is how best to design costof-living measures that provide targeted relief without unintentionally stimulating demand in a way that fuels inflation.

The government also adopted a four-stage National Fuel Strategy Plan. What is it?

To mitigate the unpredictability of the continuous shocks to global oil and gas supply, following a National Cabinet meeting, the Albanese government released a four-stage model.

With the announcement of the fuel excise, we’re currently at stage two, which is the commonwealth working with states and territory to ‘Keeping Australia Moving’

It is yet unclear what exactly will need to happen to the current fuel supply for level three or four to be triggered.

According to the plan, level three would be triggered if there were ongoing disruptions to fuel supply, meaning the government would work getting fuel to where it’s most needed and adopt voluntary practical measures to limit fuel use.

The Prime Minister specified that an escalation to level three would not come anytime soon and that if activated, clear instructions would be specified to direct fuel to key areas.

The fourth and final stage would work to ensure the protection of critical services and that the economy continues to operate — this includes life supporting services, utilities or emergency services.

Prof Brooks said that the release of the plan is “helpful”, but that some aspects are still unclear.

“We don’t fully know what would trigger moving to the later stages but if stage 2 is managed well and the conflict does not intensify we should avoid the later stages,” he said.

As a primary and secondary school teacher, Ms Nolan saw many students struggle with basic knowledge like the alphabet and she saw this transfer over to academic achievement.

The three-book series was written to help kids learn foundational skills with counting, addition and subtraction.

The books were re-published by Big Sky Publishing in late February and are available online and in-store. Details: simonandschuster.com.au/series/ One-to-Ten-and-Back-Again

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WHAT’S ON

Wild about Blind Bight

Snake safety and wildlife show with Reptile Encounters, roving performer, mangroves walk and talk, face-painting, composting and meet the SES. Please bring closed-toe shoes, hat, water bottle and insect repellant. Food and drink available for purchase.

• Thursday 9 April, 11am-3pm at Blind Bight Nature Reserve, Anchorage Drive, Blind Bight; free event. Also free transport from Clyde, Doveton and Hallam at events.humanitix.com/wild-about-blindbight-casey-coach

Nature At Dusk

Experience live music, nature walks, rock painting and self-guided nature journaling. Bring a picnic or enjoy a classic sausage sizzle, great coffee and dessert options.

• Thursday 9 April, 5pm-8pm at Wilson Botanic Park, Berwick; $5pp (children under 2 free). Bookings: events.humanitix.com/ppp-wilson-botanic-park

• Free community transport available from Clyde, Doveton and Hallam at events.humanitix. com/nature-at-dusk-casey-coach

Roll up your sleeves

Got a bit of time to give blood and change lives?

Red Cross LifeBlood’s mobile service is popping into town.

• until 10 April, various times at Cranbourne West Community Hub, 4 Flicka Blvd, Cranbourne West. Bookings: lifeblood.com.au, on our app or on 13 14 95.

Active Autumn

City of Casey presents a full month of free or lowcost activities designed to suit a wide range of ages, abilities and fitness levels. Includes body attack, body balance, body pump, Bollywood dance, casual pickleball, chair yoga, lawn bowls, Les Mills Shapes, Les Mills Thrive, line dancing, park runs, walking football (soccer).

• runs until 30 April at various locations. Details: casey.vic.gov.au/active-autumn

Australia Garden 20th birthday

Free festivities to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne’s Australia Garden. All-ages workshops and activities, including the Big Bandicoot Backyard, live music and theatre, expert talks, guided walks and tutorials and a look back at the garden’s history.

Trades & Services

• Saturday 11 April - Sunday 12 April 10am-4pm at Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne; free event.

Berwick Farmers Market

A no craft market – only farm fresh fruit and veggies, open range ethical eggs, honey, baked goods, artisan breads, vegetable seedlings, ethically raised meats, jams and preserves, dairy, wine, nuts, ready to eat goods.

• Saturday 11 April 8am-12pm at Old Cheese Factory, Homestead Road, Berwick.

Dandy-Con 2026

Explore the stallholder exhibition where you can buy your favourite merch and fanart from fandoms like Demon Slayer, Jujutsu Kaisen and more. Meet creators, play games, craft your own merch, snap a photo-booth moment and dive into tabletop adventures, roving characters and a lively cosplay competition. A perfect day out for fans of all ages.

• Saturday 11 April, 11am–4pm at Dandenong Library, Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre and the Drum Theatre; free event. Details: 1300 630 920 or dandy.con@cgd.vic.gov.au.

Children’s Easter Art Workshop

For primary-school-aged children to explore art techniques and experiment with exciting materials.

• Monday 13 April 10am-11am at Lynbrook Community Centre, 2 Harris Street; free event. Bookings required at trybooking.com/DIBTG

Children’s Easter activities

Drop-in Easter crafts and creative activities for kids aged 4–10.

• Tuesday 14 April 10am-11am at Lynbrook Community Centre, 2 Harris Street; free event.

Bookings: trybooking.com/DIBTS

Teddy Bear Picinic

Families can enjoy a Hey Dee Ho performance, sports activities with Ready Steady Go Kids, bubbles by Busy Entertainment, craft activities, and a fun bear hunt. Outdoors event - please bring sun protection, water and picnic.

• Wednesday 15 April 11am-1pm at Old Cheese Factory, Homestead Road, Berwick; $7 per child (adults and babies under 12 months free). Bookings: events.humanitix.com/old-cheese-factoryteddy-bears-picnic-2026-enx4pb3k

Mental health first aid for men

Two-day Mental Health First Aid Training Course for men. The free course by Mental Health First Aid

Australia will teach participants how to recognise and respond to mental health problems. Hosted by City of Casey.

• Wednesday and Thursday, 15-16 April, 9.30am-4.30pm at Bunjil Place, Narre Warren. Bookings essential: trybooking.com/events/landing/1550779

Melbourne International

Film Festival

MIFF films at discounted prices, with panel discussions and Q&As with filmmakers. Featured films are The Bad Guys 2 (PG) (17 April, 12.30pm), The President’s Cake (M) (17 April, 6.30pm), But Also John Clarke (M) (18 April, 4.30pm) and Journey Home, David Gulpilil (M) (19 April, 4.30pm)

• Friday 17 April - Sunday 19 April at Bunjil Place, Narre Warren. Tickets: bunjilplace.com.au Active Autumn Amazing Race

In this exciting and inclusive event, teams travel on foot through Wilson Botanic Park and into the centre of Berwick, following a map and solving clues along the way. At each checkpoint, participants will complete a variety of challenges, including cryptic puzzles, photo challenges and construction tasks.

• Sunday 19 April 1pm at Wilson Botanic Park, Berwick; $5 entry fee. To register, visit tickets.bunjilplace.com.au/11257

Playdaze for Nature Play Week

Interactive wildlife display by Wildlife Xposure, and fun activities for children 0-5 years.

• Thursday 23 April 9.30am-11.30am at Wilson Botanic Park Berwick; free event.

Visible Mending Workshop

Mend your moth-chomped or ropped garments and give them new life. Bring woollen clothing, stretchy clothing and woven clothing (eg jeans), plus take a look at sashiko, embroidery, and weaving mends. Light refreshments provided.

• Friday 24 April 9.30am-12pm at Good Food Emporium, Unit 15/430-440 Princes Hwy, Narre Warren; free event. Bookings required at events. humanitix.com/visible-mending-workshop-24-4

Anzac Day services

March and services are being held by community groups across City of Casey on Anzac Day.

• Saturday 25 April at Berwick: march (10.40am) and service (11am) at cenotaph, High Street; Bunjil Place: dawn service (6am); Cranbourne:

dawn service (6am) at Greg Clydesdale Square, High Street; Hampton Park: dawn service (6am) at Arthur Wren Hall, 16-20 Stuart Avenue; Narre Warren North: service (9.30am) at cenotaph, Memorial Drive; Pearcedale: dawn service (6am) at public hall, 45 Pearcedale Road; Tooradin: service (10am) at Memorial Reserve, South Gippsland Highway.

Marvellous Mangroves walk

Coastal Villages Dads’ Group presents a free activity and walk for all dads, grandfathers, father figures and their children. Look for mud crabs and shorebirds as you learn about the mangroves’ amazing ecosystem. Bring hats, sunscreen & drinking water for you and your children. Wear suitable walking shoes and bring insect repellent (for the friendly mosquitoes). Supported by the City of Casey’s Sustainability & Environment team.

• Sunday 26 April 9am-11am. Meet at Blind Bight Boat Ramp car park, 28 Anchorage Drive, Blind Bight; free event. Bookings: trybooking.com/ DITYD

Melbourne City Football Club tour

Cranbourne Dads’ Group presents an evening behind-the-scenes at Melbourne City Football Club for all dads, grandfathers, father figures and their children.

• Monday 27 April 6.30pm-8pm at Melbourne City Football Club, 369 Casey Fields Blvd, Cranbourne East; free event. Bookings: trybooking. com/events/landing/1558181

Singers wanted

Cranbourne Chorale is recruiting for its non-auditioned adult community choir for mixed voices. Our repertoire is a mix of uplifting songs. Feel free to visit us without obligation, the first four sessions are free of charge.

• Wednesday rehearsals 7.30pm at The Factory, Building 5, 65 Berwick-Cranbourne Rd, Cranbourne East. Details: Jenny, 0438 358 032. 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

Wicks set for winning ways

By Justin Schwarze BERWICK

· President: Simon Curtis

· Coach: Andrew Williams

· Captain: Will Arthurson

· Last Year: 9th (5-13)

· Leading Goalkicker: Jai Neal (44)

· Best & Fairest: Ashton Williamson

· Key Ins: Luke Nelson (Collegians - midfielder), Matt Nelson (Noble Park - half back), Tom Nelson (Noble Park - midfielder), Ryan Williamson (Beaconsfield), Lachlan Roe (South Belgraveruck), Tige Bergman (returning), Jahvon Bergman (Nar Nar Goon), Miller Bergman (North Melbourne VFL), Raiden Bergman (returning), Lewis Hill (Tooradin-Dalmore - midfielder), Jaxon Binns (Carlton - wing)

· Key Outs: Tom Brennan (retired)

EASTERN

“The first part of that is everyone pushing themselves to be fit and play their role and understand the way we want to play.

our speed and fitness and the way we can move the footy and transition the ball,” Williams said.

Matt and Tom cross from fellow EFL Premier club Noble Park, and all three are set to make immense impact.

“Luke’s coming back home and his two brothers are massive additions,” Williams said.

“Tom has shown some real X-factor, he’s been terrific.

“His attitude to the game is unbelievable.

“The way they go about their footy is first class.”

Miller Bergman signed on the dotted line at Edwin Flack Oval after being delisted by North Melbourne, bringing returning brothers Raiden, Tige and Jahvon with him.

Lewis Hill will bring a huge boost to the middle, with his blistering pace and running ability already turning heads after signing from Tooradin-Dalmore.

“Lewis Hill is another one that’s really, really talented,” Williams said.

“He gives us some real drive and good ball use and he doesn’t do a lot wrong.

“He’s got some tricks so he’s been a massive inclusion.”

Something worth monitoring is the sheer number of key players that are tied up with VFL duties, as Berwick possesses nine players with either a standard VFL contract or a train-on spot.

The rumblings of a Berwick resurgence are being felt all around the Eastern Premier Division. Major internal belief paired with a number of impressive inclusions casts little doubt in what the Wickers can achieve despite a second-bottom placed finish in 2025.

Berwick was young but competitive last year, winning five games but holding a respectable percentage of 82.16 while having statistically the league’s fifth ranked defence.

“We’ve said it for a while now, we’re a young group but we know our best footy can match it with the best sides,” senior coach Andrew Williams said.

“At the end of the day, everyone’s aims and goals are to play finals, so it’d be lovely to put ourselves in a position to win enough games to get there.

“In terms of ladder position and percentage and the amount of wins we had, I felt like the second half of the year we were really competitive against everyone we played.

“It gave the group real confidence and that speaks volumes on the player retention and the way we’ve been able to add to our list.”

Berwick has kept nearly every member of its outfit, with the main departure being club stalwart and champion Tom Brennan retiring.

Will Arthurson will captain the side, and topping up with some experienced and high-end talent makes the Wickers an incredibly exciting prospect for 2026.

Despite the youth in their list, bringing a smart attack on the footy will be important to improvement.

“Being a young side our strength is certainly

“I think we need to find the balance, we play on so many different types of grounds that we need to be able to adapt, that’s the main thing.

“We need to work out what the game needs, at times we’re going to need to play fast, attacking footy and at others we’re going to defend the ground.

“That’s the thing on the maturity of the group, being able to adapt and control games when we need to and go for it when we need to.”

And there’s plenty of class arriving to assist in that endeavour.

It’s been a family affair at Berwick’s footy department, with the recruitment of two talented families; the Nelsons and the Bergmans.

Luke, Matt and Tom Nelson provide invaluable ability to the middle third of the ground, with a plethora of VFL experience.

Luke joins from VAFA club Collegians, while

Dan Pinter (Sandringham VFL), Braeydn Bowden (Casey VFL), Kane Hurst (Sandringham VFL), Jaxon Binns (Essendon VFL), Tahj De La Rue (Casey VFL), Miller Bergman (Casey VFL), Harry Canning (Box Hill VFL), Lachie Roe (Port Melbourne VFL) and Matt Nelson (Frankston VFL) may all be busy with state league responsibilities at different times, marking a slight hurdle for Williams that may test the depth at times.

“It’s a little bit to deal with week-to-week on that side of things but I feel like we’ve added some really good depth,” Williams said.

“Other than that, we’ve retained our list and feel like we’re in pretty good shape leading into round one to give ourselves every chance.

“Then there’s the usual suspects, Caleb Van Oostveen, Ashton Williamson, Jai Neal, Will Arthurson, Blake Westra and Caydn Lane, they’ve all had terrific preseasons and haven’t put a foot wrong.

“They’re all fit and firing and ready for big years.

“There’s also some good young kids sitting on the edge there that may not be senior ready just yet, but we just say be ready for your opportunity.” Berwick kicks off its season at home against newly-promoted South Belgrave this week.

Brown leads black and white as Magpies head to SEPNL

By Blair Burns

Narre Warren embarked on a new chapter last season in the Southern League and will start fresh once again this weekend when they play their first match in the South East Precinct Netball League (SEPNL).

Under new A grade coach Kealeigh Brown, the Magpies will look almost completely different this season, with Chelsea Tonna the only player going around again from last season.

Last year, Narre Warren breezed through the regular season with an impressive 12-3 record, before falling 11 goals short against Cheltenham in the preliminary final.

Michelle Mashado coached the A Grade side for a number of years, and they achieved great success in that period, but it is now a changing of the guard.

After looking around for a new coach to replace the outgoing Mashado, Brown stepped up into the role herself.

“I decided to take on the role myself and try to keep that position filled by a club person who knows the girls, the other senior coaches and the club,” she said.

“It is super special to me to have the honour of coaching the top team at Narre, it feels surreal.” Anticipation for the season was building, with the club excited to be rolling out a young side with more than half of the players under the age of 20.

“I am super excited to get the season underway, we have had a ripper pre-season and have played in some great practice matches,” Brown said.

“There is so much youth and potential coming through our senior sides this year and we haven’t hit full strength just yet.”

Brown is the perfect person to lead the Magpies forward, having been at Narre Warren since 2012 when she was old enough to play.

Being coached by some great leaders in Jade and Greg Heinrich, Holly Booth, Simon O’Shanassy and Erin Bell inspired Brown.

“All of them combined led to me wanting to coach … I started coaching in 2020 just as COVID hit and since then, I have coached some junior

teams and assistant coached the senior teams I have played in,” she said.

“Special moments include the premierships, coaching D grade in 2023 and assistant coaching C grade in 2024.”

The incoming coach said joining the SEPNL was a huge step forward and the “perfect move”

“From the start, (having football and netball together) has been all we have wanted,” Brown said.

“Since leaving the Outer East League, it’s been the one thing that every person has missed the most … SFNL had a great competition standard, but we lost a lot of club culture playing.

“Playing most home games with our football is going to be just like old times - fingers crossed the league continues to grow.”

Brown added that the Southern League fixture was a big reason as to why “80 per cent” of players departed during the off-season.

“The club culture and whole vibe of not playing with our football made a lot of girls consider other options,” she said.

“Fortunately though for us, a lot of our younger girls have stuck by and show massive potential.”

The goal for the Magpies in 2026 is to have fun and enjoy playing Narre netball once again.

“As always, there’s the ambition and end goal of holding the cup and flag at the end of the season,” Brown said.

“But more importantly for us this year is to simply enjoy playing netball, enjoy being home with the football and junior netball, and enjoy this new competition.”

Young and exciting Eagles

By David Nagel

New Beaconsfield coach Scott Kerr is genuinely excited about the prospect of leading a young and enthusiastic group in Eastern Division 1 this year.

Kerr, who has built a wealth of experience in roles at Beaconsfield and Hallam, and most recently leading Nar Nar Goon reserves to back-toback grand finals and a premiership win in 2024, now steps into the hot seat in one of the high-profile jobs in the region.

He replaces highly-respected coach Mick Fogarty, who stepped down at the conclusion of last year due to family reasons.

“It was originally one that I thought I would not even bother going for, but previously being involved in the club, before going to Nar Nar Goon, I started to think I would love to go back if the right role came about,” Kerr said.

“We went through the interview process, and low and behold they offered me the job.

“I think I did a fair apprenticeship at Nar Nar Goon and will always look back fondly at a great club and great time that I had; but if a job ever came up like this, I was always going to have a go at it.

“It’s a great privilege to coach Beaconsfield in Eastern Division 1.”

Kerr takes over a list that looks a lot different to the one that Fogarty led to third place last year, but was ultimately bundled out in straight sets.

The list of departures is long, and exudes high quality, with Jake Aarts and Brandon White heading to Dromana, while long-term leader Damien Johnston will be joined by Ethan Harris and Taelor Reyment at Upper Ferntree Gully.

The Stokoe brothers, Trent and Tylah, have joined Lachlan Modica at Nar Nar Goon, while Hayden Brough (Kilcunda-Bass) and Travis Stewart (Nyora) will also be absent from Holm Park Reserve this year.

But Kerr is confident that his young group can still make an impact, with the recruitment of key forward Ben Schultze (Gembrook-Cockatoo), midfielders Billy Gerrard-Kett (Balwyn) and the returning Hayden Brown, and versatile types in Jayden Route (NBL1) and Cooper Shipp (Tooradin-Dalmore) set to alleviate the pain of those losses.

“As everyone knows, we’ve lost a lot of experi-

EASTERN FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE DIVISION 1 PREVIEW - BEACONSFIELD

ence in the off-season and I’ve inherited a really young list, but it’s really exciting because they just want to go out and play footy,” Kerr said.

“We’ve obviously put in a few structural things in place, around how we want to defend and move the footy; but otherwise, I’ve just let them go.

“The pre-season has been really good and the boys have shown some really good signs in the three practice matches we’ve had.

“The ball movement has been good, pressure back the other way has been good, but now it’s about how the younger bodies stand up to the rigours of Division 1.

“It’s an unknown for us because we are so

young; we could have nine or 10 debutants against North Ringwood this weekend.”

Finn Devine, Connor Mouat and Ethan Winterton will form the nucleus of the back half for the Eagles, joining forces with skipper Jake Bowd, who will ply his trade more regularly in defence.

Bowd has been the swingman for the Eagles over the last few years, but the recruitment of Shipp could lift that onerous role from the skippers’ shoulders.

The new coach is a massive fan of his leader and wants him to enjoy his football to the utmost.

“We get along really well, we speak openly, and we will be relying on him a fair bit with his leadership out on the ground,” Kerr said.

“He’s looking forward to settling back in defence a bit more this year and he’s now the grandfather of the team and he’s not even 30 yet.

“As I said; we’re very young and it’s already very exciting.

“I’m big on playing players in positions that they’re comfortable with and I think we’ll see the best of Jake this year with a settled role in defence.”

Devon Smith, Brown, Kobe Shipp, Kade De La Rue and Gerrard-Kett will be prominent figures through the midfield, while Schultz, and Charlie Muley - once he recovers from a shoulder injurywill be the focal points of the forward line.

Kerr is promising an exciting watch for supporters that turn out at Holm Park Reserve on Saturday.

“A good clean brand of footy with fast ball movement and young kids taking the game on with passion and excitement; just having a redhot go,” Kerr explained

“Everyone wants to move the ball quickly and fast; and with a young group we’ll probably make mistakes; but there’s no way we’re going to die wondering.”

Max Heath saves day for Demons with ‘Leo Barry’ mark

By Justin Schwarze

Max Heath you star!

A late game-saving defensive pack mark from Heath lifted Casey to its first win in the Rhett McLennan era, taking down Box Hill 17.8 (110) to 16.10 (106) in round three of the VFL at Casey Fields.

It was an Easter Sunday classic that contained a number of momentum swings, with both teams leading at various points of the contest.

The Hawks led for most of the first half, led by Aidan Schubert booting four first-quarter goals, finishing with five as the halftime siren sounded.

Casey momentarily hit the front as the third wound down and clung onto its advantage in the fourth, despite Box Hill throwing everything it could at the Demons.

“Box Hill, when they had momentum, were able to score fast and fairly heavily,” coach McLennan noted.

“It was about how much they could capitalise on our lapses in concentration, and they did that.

“When we were able to knuckle down and get back to the task of how we wanted to play and how we wanted to be accountable both ways, we were able to get it on our terms and the scoreboard followed with that.”

The hosts led by one at the last change, before back-to-back goals from Luker Kentfield and Aidan Johnson lifted Casey to a 14-point cushion early in the final term.

The visitors then managed five of the next six scores, two of which were goals from Calsher Dear and Brodie McLaughlin, to bring it back to level.

At the 24 minute mark, Tom Matthews put his head over the footy and was clobbered in the forward 50, leading to a free kick and a 50-metre penalty.

Matthews made no mistakes, but the Hawks weren’t put away yet.

A couple of late entries resulted in behinds, before one last roll of the dice saw Heath come up huge with some heroics, reeling in the massive grab as the siren went to secure the victory. And it wasn’t just the mark, Heath was outstanding around the ground, posting 21 dispos-

als, six marks, four clearances and 42 hitouts.

“It was probably very fitting that Max took the last mark given his influence on the game,” McLennan reflected.

“I thought his efforts to get long down the line

and take defensive marks as well as dominate the ruck, his energy and his will on the game was profound.

“It was only fitting that his last effort to take the contested mark and save the game was how it all finished, it was quite poetic.”

Riley Bonner was again a ball magnet, racking up 33 touches and six marks, while Kentfield and Johnson each kicked four snags for the Demons.

Matthew Jefferson booted a trio of goals for the hosts, and Nar Nar Goon’s Nate Pipicelli managed another pair of majors.

“I thought that we had the ascendancy for a fair chunk of the game,” McLennan said.

“When we were on top, I thought we moved the footy really well.

“We moved fast and we used our numbers well as we moved forward.

“Then obviously we had the luxury of the three big talls back in our side with Johnson, Kentfield and Jefferson, and they were great and all hit the scoreboard and provided us with a strong contest.

“Our mids and forwards did a really good job in regards to capitalising when we had the momentum going our way.

“It’s good to know that when we’re playing good footy, our best is good enough to play against sides like Box Hill, who are a quality outfit.

“The other thing to think about is we played nowhere near four quarters of football, and the scope of what that looks like when we do is pretty promising.”

Casey has the weekend off over AFL Gather Round, but will return in round four back at Casey Fields against Brisbane on Sunday 19 April.

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