Thursday, 28 May, 2026
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Metro Tunnel gripes
Casey ups the ante
Lessons for laughs
Hawks soar over Berwick
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Shiny smiles and sequins Bright daffodils and garments were on show for a Biggest Morning Tea fundraiser at Balla Balla Community Centre on Tuesday. Among the gathering were, pictured from left, event organiser Anna Curran, Pauline Laidlay, Ann John from Cancer Council Victoria and event MC Colin Butler. For more on the event, turn to page 3 (Stewart Chambers: 555153)
One step closer The City of Casey has approved an amended development plan for Berwick’s Manuka Road precinct, paving the way for more than 150 new homes despite overwhelming community opposition. Councillors, excluding Cr Shane and Cr Dave Perry, voted in favour of the proposal at the May council meeting, even though 121 of the 133 public submissions objected to the project.
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Residents and community groups argued the development would erode one of Berwick’s last semi-rural pockets, raising concerns about traffic congestion, environmental impacts, tree loss and increased pressure on local infrastructure. Critics also expressed frustration that future subdivision plans and permits will no longer be open to public objection following the council’s decision.
The 18-hectare site near Cardinia Creek is set to become a new residential estate expected to accommodate around 446 residents. Plans include detached housing, open spaces, upgraded roads and pedestrian links to nearby parklands. Councillor Perry and Taylor voted against the motion, on the basis that the proposal failed to adequately reflect community concerns and risked sacrificing Berwick’s character to meet
housing targets. Supporters of the project said the development was necessary to address growing housing demand across Melbourne’s south-east while still protecting heritage sites and significant vegetation. For more on this story, go to page 5