Thursday, 18 June, 2026
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Trail link revived
Refugee fears rise
Hampton Park Hill re-think
Berwick beaten by a whisker
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SPORT
Socceroos on the big screen Green and gold fever swept through Casey as hundreds of football fans packed Bunjil Place to witness the Socceroos’ thrilling start to their 2026 FIFA World Cup journey. Cheers echoed across the plaza as Australia stunned Türkiye with a commanding 2-0 victory, igniting celebrations among supporters watching on the giant outdoor screen. Families, friends and football fanatics united to share every tense moment, turning the community hub into a sea of excitement and national pride. The win has fuelled World Cup optimism across the region, with local fans already counting down to Australia’s next blockbuster clash on Saturday 20 June. For more pictures go to page 7
Martin Lipavic, watching the game on the big screen. (Gary Sissons: 554192)
$12 waste win Casey Councillors have voted to freeze its waste service charge for the 2026/27 financial year, providing households with a small saving of about $12. To fund the freeze, the council will draw from its waste reserve, reducing the fund to around $300,000.
The decision was supported by seven councillors after an extended debate at the June council meeting. Supporters argued that even a modest saving would help residents facing ongoing cost-of-living pressures. Deputy Mayor Michelle Crowther, who proposed the alternative motion, said the council should do what it can to lessen the financial im-
pact of the State Government’s new waste collection reforms, which will require all households to have food and garden (FOGO) waste bins as well as separate glass bins by July 2027. Opponents raised concerns about the longterm financial risks of reducing the reserve. They warned that unexpected increases in fuel prices, environmental levies, contract costs, or further waste reforms could leave the coun-
cil without sufficient funds to absorb future expenses, potentially resulting in higher charges later. The decision comes as several neighbouring councils continue to challenge aspects of the State Government’s waste reforms, particularly the planned introduction of glass bins across Victoria. For more on this story, go to page 3
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