News - Pakenham Officer Star News - 2nd July 2026

Food relief need rising

The number of families seeking food relief in some areas of Casey has doubled in the past year, with local charities warning that the rising cost of living is pushing more residents into food insecurity and financial distress.

Volunteer-run organisation Find a Penny, which operates a food relief hub and three mobile soup kitchens across Melbourne’s south-east, now provides assistance to nearly 6,000 Victorians every week.

Their assistance is supported by OzHarvest which distributes food through their major hubs including one in Hallam.

Founder Bebe Stednik said the profile of people seeking help had changed dramatically.

Among them is Pakenham resident Donita, a mother of 10 whose family relies on the service to help make ends meet. Donita and her family currently live in public housing and relies on OzHarvest to receive a weekly food parcel.

With one son living with severe autism and her husband working part-time, she said rising expenses had made everyday life increasingly difficult.

Thieves thwarted

By Afraa Kori

Thieves appear to be facing fewer opportunities in Pakenham, with new data showing a notable fall in both break-ins and motor vehicle theft across the past year.

According to the latest Crime Statistics Agency, Pakenham recorded a nearly 24 per cent drop in break-ins and burglaries, falling from 271 in 2025 to 206 in 2026.

In the twelve months to March 2026, motor vehicle thefts also fell by 10.1 per cent, dropping from 227 to 204.

It is believed the “9pm Routine”, launched last year, has helped contribute to the decline in offending.

The 9pm routine is a safety campaign supported by Cardinia Shire Council and Victoria Police to remind residents to secure their property and cars to prevent theft.

By 9pm, residents are encouraged to take simple nightly steps such as removing valuables from cars, locking vehicles and windows, securing homes and garages, and leaving external lights on.

Police allege thieves are opportunistic and look for easy targets, meaning simple security habits can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim.

AtarecentLibertarian-ledcrimeforumheldin Casey, Crime Stoppers community engagement officer Aiden Bloomfield acknowledged Cardinia

Shire Council’s work in crime prevention, saying the 9pm routine has helped residents, including himself, build stronger everyday security habits.

Reflecting on Casey’s 9.1 per cent rise in crime, which contrasts Victoria’s first overall decline in four years, Mr Bloomfield said these residents should not rely on memory alone, but instead build consistent habits so checking doors and vehicles becomes automatic.

“Train the brain,” he urged residents to prioritise security.

Police Deputy Commissioner Regional Operations Bob Hill said while pleasing to see overall crime slightly decrease, the reality is that overall crime in Victoria still remains far higher than both police and the community would like.

“This is why we are absolutely committed to ensuring our highly trained officers are where they are needed most – in the community, patrolling the streets, deterring criminal behaviour and preventing crime,” he said.

“The early indications are we’re making some positive steps to achieve this with armed robberies, carjackings, and aggravated home burglaries all reducing.

“Our dedicated officers continue to work extremely hard around-the-clock to protect the community, with a record 210 offenders arrested every day.”

Intersection nearly ready

Thompsons Road and Berwick-Cranbourne Road

Intersection Upgrade will be completed in October, the State Government said.

The existing congested roundabout in Clyde North will be replaced with a fully signalised intersection, boasting new through and turning lanes and shared use paths around the intersection.

To fast-track construction and complete the upgrade sooner, the intersection will be closed from 5am Wednesday 1 July to 5am Monday 13 July 2026.

During this time crews will install streetlights, traffic light poles, kerbs and guard rails, reinstate traffic islands, lay asphalt and realign safety barriers ready for the next stage of works.

Motorists are advised to plan ahead, allow up to 20 minutes extra travel time, follow signed detours and use alternative routes throughout the duration of the closure.

Once these works are complete, the intersection will reopen to traffic with Thompsons Road remaining closed in both directions between Berwick-Cranbourne Road and Matterhorn Drive until mid-September 2026 to facilitate the final stage of construction of the new intersection.

Holt MP Cassandra Fernando said the upgrade would be completed ahead of schedule.

“These final works in the run-up to opening will help crews complete vital construction and bring the community one step closer to safer and more efficient journeys,” she said.

Detours and the latest traffic updates are available at bigbuild.vic.gov.au/disruptions.

Thompsons Road and Berwick-Cranbourne Road Intersection Upgrade will be completed in October, the State Government said. (File)

When police work with hands tied, it’s hard to keep faith

Just one week before my own car had its windows smashed, I attended a community crime information evening in Narre Warren.

The event, presented by Casey Council in partnership with Victoria Police and Crime Stoppers, wasn’t political, sensational or designed to scare people.

It was practical.

Ironically, I only found out about it because I bumped into a friend from Casey Neighbourhood Residents the day before.

It struck me afterwards that every resident in Casey should have known this event was happening.

The evening focused on simple but powerful messages: how criminals operate, how to better secure our homes and vehicles, and why reporting suspicious behaviour matters.

Police explained that every phone call, every piece of CCTV footage and every seemingly insignificant report helps build intelligence.

One small piece of information may mean very little on its own, but together those pieces often become the evidence needed to identify offenders and prevent future crimes.

We have all heard people say, “Why bother reporting it? Nothing ever happens.”

I walked away thinking exactly the opposite.

A week later, I became the victim.

Returning to my car in a secure underground car park on Queen Street in Melbourne’s CBD, I found the passenger and rear windows smashed.

Three vehicles had been broken into that morning, prompting police to send out the Crime Investigation Unit.

The officers who attended were professional, compassionate and clearly frustrated themselves.

One policewoman made a comment that has stayed with me ever since.

“Jamel, we’ll do everything we can to find the offender,” she said, “but I can’t guarantee they won’t be back on the streets next week doing it again.”

Think about that for a moment.

The very people charged with protecting our

communities are openly acknowledging the limitations of the system they work within.

Later that day I realised my AirPods had also been stolen.

Fortunately, Apple’s tracking technology began showing their location.

For the next three days they continued to ping from the same address in Braybrook.

Every morning I contacted police. Every day I provided the live location.

At one point I was advised to call Triple Zero so that a patrol car could be authorised to attend while the tracking remained active.

I did exactly that and waited hopefully for a call back.

Several hours later a police officer rang to explain that the location was a block of units.

Without further evidence or the appropriate legal authority, police could not simply enter the premises.

Now let me be very clear. I am not suggesting police should be kicking down doors without due process.

Warrants, legal safeguards and the rule of law exist for very good reasons.

But when stolen property continues to broadcast its location for days and victims are left watching a blinking dot on a map while feeling completely powerless, something inside us begins to change.

If I’m completely honest, there were moments when I felt like driving to Braybrook myself.

Not because I wanted revenge.

But because inside that building wasn’t simply a pair of AirPods.

My diary was gone. Months of notes, personal reflections and work I cannot replace with an insurance claim.

For the first time I understood why otherwise law-abiding people begin thinking about taking matters into their own hands.

That frightened me.

Not because I intended to become a vigilante, but because no democracy should ever leave ordinary citizens feeling that recovering their own property depends more on their courage than on the justice system.

The more I spoke with police, the more another reality emerged.

One officer shared that she had arrested a young offender the previous day and, as required, contacted the child’s parent.

The response was heartbreaking.

“You can keep him,” the mother reportedly said.

“Maybe it’ll teach him a lesson.”

She hung up.

Three hours later, because the legal requirements could not be met, the young person had to be released.

Who failed in that situation?

The police?

The parent?

The young offender?

Or have we, as a society, simply stopped expecting accountability from one another?

This is why I believe the conversation about youth crime has become far too simplistic.

Every election we hear promises of tougher bail laws, harsher penalties and more police.

Those discussions have their place, but they only deal with what happens after the damage has already been done.

Surely the better question is: how do we stop young people getting there in the first place?

Over recent months I have been developing what I call the Youth Reset concept - not as political policy, but as a conversation starter.

The idea is simple.

If a young person repeatedly offends, the answer should not simply be detention or another diversion program.

It should be a structured reset that combines discipline, education, mentoring, physical activity, financial literacy, employment pathways, family accountability and personal responsibility.

Young people need consequences, but they also need direction, routine and genuine opportunities to change.

Parents, too, must become part of the solution rather than bystanders to the problem.

None of this diminishes the extraordinary work Victoria Police are already doing.

If anything, my experience has given me an even greater respect for the men and women in uniform.

They are often expected to solve problems created by failing systems in education, family support, mental health and youth intervention. We continue asking them to carry the weight of society while restricting the tools available to them.

Perhaps that is where the real conversation should begin.

We should continue reporting suspicious behaviour because intelligence saves communities. We should continue supporting our police because they cannot do this alone.

We should continue expecting consequences for those who repeatedly offend, while also investing in earlier intervention that prevents young people entering the justice system in the first place.

Victorians deserve to feel safe in their homes, in their streets and in their workplaces.

Our police deserve the resources, support and legislative framework to do the job we ask of them.

Truth be told... the greatest threat to law and order is not crime itself.

It is when good people begin losing faith that the system can protect them.

MP Dreyfus details abuses

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Isaacs MP Mark Dreyfus has detailed the antisemitic abuse he’s faced as a prominent Jewish Australian.

The former Attorney-General described the “painful” impact of antisemitism in what he termed a “personal” submission to the federal Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion.

“This submission is personal because antisemitism is personal.”

His first experience of such personal abuse as a Parliamentarian was in April 2024. He was confronted by a man at a protest rally near the State Library in Melbourne, who said: “You’re a genocidal Zionist. You should be ashamed of yourself.”

It had continued since then, including an “explosion” of online antisemitic abuse. He listed more than 30 examples of the comments in his submission.

Vandals smeared his electorate office in red paint, with a message on the footpath: “Who does AG Mark Dreyfus serve?”

“It deliberately invokes one of the most persistent antisemitic ideas: that a Jewish person in public life has dual loyalty, a hidden allegiance, and that their service to Australia is open to suspicion because they are Jewish,” Mr Dreyfus stated.

A “Sky News ‘reporter’” called him a ‘Kapo’ - a term derived from Nazi Germany that “casts me as a betrayer of the dead, of millions of murdered Jews”

“It is an attempt to take the deepest wound in Jewish history and use it as an instrument of abuse.”

Mr Dreyfus is the son of a refugee who fled from the Nazi regime in Germany at the age of 11. His great-grandfather and great-grandmother were captured and perished in the Holocaust.

The Holocaust was the “clearest and most ter-

Fountain Gate under focus

By Jensy Callimootoo

Shoppers visiting Westfield Fountain Gate in Narre Warren can expect to see a stronger police presence these school holidays, with Victoria Police boosting patrols as part of its ongoing Operation Pulse initiative.

Fountain Gate is one of nine major shopping centres across Melbourne and Geelong where additional police officers and Protective Services Officers (PSOs) will be deployed throughout the two-week winter school holiday period.

The increased patrols are aimed at preventing retail theft, anti-social behaviour and weaponsrelated offending during one of the busiest shopping periods of the year.

Victoria Police says more than 1,400 people have been arrested and over 2,900 charges laid since Operation Pulse began in December last year, when the operation first kicked off.

Officers have also seized 215 weapons during the operation, highlighting its focus on removing dangerous weapons from public places.

Superintendent Matt Baynes said the additional patrols were designed to reassure shoppers, retailers and staff while deterring criminal behaviour.

“We know shopping centres are especially busy during school holidays, with families and young people spending more time there,” he said.

Police said all additional shifts are being undertaken voluntarily by officers and PSOs on planned rest days, meaning the increased shopping centre presence will not reduce frontline policing or impact rail network patrols.

Alongside Fountain Gate, the expanded operation covers Highpoint, Northland, Eastland, Watergardens, Southland, Pacific Werribee, Bayside Frankston and key retail areas in Geelong.

rible warning of where antisemitism can lead”

“But the hatred that made it possible was older than the Third Reich”

He says Australia should be free to debate foreign policy, human rights and war, but it crossed the line of political criticism to hold Jewish Australians collectively responsible for the Israeli government in Gaza.

In his submission, he sought actions to tackle antisemitism, including the strengthening of hate speech laws that presently only cover speeches inciting violence or threatening force.

He stated groups were operating below that threshold - in the “grey zone” - to “recruit, socialise and normalise extremist beliefs”

Mr Dreyfus also called for online platforms to be required to remove offensive posts under a Digital Duty of Care, as well as a National Firearms Register and tighter restrictions on firearm ownership.

He also sought for the Holocaust to be included in the national education curriculum, so “no Australian should end their formal education without knowledge of the Holocaust and its consequences”

In representing one of Australia’s most culturally diverse communities in his South East seat, Mr Dreyfus extolled the “accomplishments” of multiculturalism.

“When I think about the world’s religious traditions and communities, I am struck less by their differences than by their shared reverence for the dignity of every human being.

“No one has the right to strip another person of dignity because of who they are.

“No one should presume the right to deny a people their equal place because of who they are.

“These are not ideals but obligations that belong to all of us. Opposing antisemitism is part of what that demands. And so too is opposing all forms of prejudice and hate.”

Man, 44, on hit-run charge

Cardinia Crime Investigation Unit detectives have charged a man following a collision between a car and cyclist in Cockatoo in late June.

Emergency services were called to the collision on Pakenham Road.

The cyclist, a 47-year-old of no fixed address, was airlifted to hospital with life-threatening injuries where he remains.

It is alleged the driver failed to stop at the scene and dumped the vehicle at a nearby reserve on Hillside Road.

A 44-year-old Cockatoo man was arrested nearby and released pending further enquiries.

Detectives later arrested the alleged driver, a 27-year-old Cockatoo man, in Cockatoo about 12.20am earlier this week. He has been charged with internationally cause serious injury and dangerous driving causing serious injury. He was presented to Melbourne Magistrates’ Court for a remand hearing.

Violent assault on father

By Jensy Callimootoo

A father of three has been praised for his courage and resilience after surviving a brutal assault and attempted stabbing by two strangers near a local mosque in Hampton Park on Wednesday 24 June.

Samir, says he feared for his life as he laid on the ground following the attack by two men in a Hampton Park parking lot about 7pm.

The 43-year-old was heading to evening prayer and to collect his children from the Hampton Park mosque when he noticed a vehicle parked nearby.

CCTV footage shown to Star News reveals the men yelling out to Samir as he drove into the car park, passing the offenders’ car.

The yelling persisted and the offenders exited their car. A third man was also present but was not involved in the physical altercation.

Samir also stopped his car and approached the offenders, telling Star News that they were yelling and swearing at him.

“I went down and I said, ‘What happened, what’s wrong with you guys?’” he explained.

‘And they just kept going, saying the F word and saying ‘with the way you look at us in our car park’

“I said ‘I’m saying nothing to you, what’s wrong with you?’

“And the second one asked me if I was Muslim. And he showed his hand and when I said, yes I am Muslim, I saw the second person throw a hook in my face.”

The second offender also began to kick Samir. Samir says he was repeatedly punched, kicked and choked, and that two of the men were carrying ice picks. He said the group also shouted threats to kill him.

“I thought that was the end,” he said.

Samir says his insulated puffer jacket inhibited him from getting stabbed, but a kick to his neck caused him respiratory distress.

“I couldn’t breathe. I thought I was going to die,” he said.

Despite suffering injuries to his face, neck and back after the offenders fled in their vehicle,

managed to drive to the mosque, where community members called emergency services.

Mosque president Firzy, said that Samir had to wait an hour and 10 minutes for the police to arrive after the first emergency call was made.

“When they came, they did their job, but it just took too long,” he said.

“Someone was badly beaten and there was a weapon involved.”

The Islamic Council of Victoria (ICV) released a statement following the incident condemning the “violent attack”

“While we will not pre-empt the police inves-

tigation, it is essential that authorities examine whether this man was targeted because of his faith,” said Dr Mohamed Mohideen, President of the ICV.

“Muslim hatred is real, it is rising, and it has consequences for people’s safety in their own neighbourhoods.”

Mosque president Firzy said incidents of this nature had not previously occurred at the mosque and no additional security measures had been introduced.

The incident has left Samir and his family shaken, with the father of three saying he is par-

ticularly worried about his children as his concerns on rising crime rises.

But amid the shock and distress, Samir has been praised for his strength.

“Samir is the toughest one that we have, if it happened to someone else, I don’t know what would have happened,” Mr Firzy said.

Police say that investigations into the assault are ongoing and that the offenders are yet to be located.

“Investigators have been told a man confronted two men about dropping rubbish out of their car, when he was set upon and assaulted,” Victoria Police stated.

Samir says he is lucky to be alive and that his children and his wife have been by his side in his recovery.

“I am lucky. After the attack, I thought of my children and my wife,” he said.

“I thought when I was scared, ‘I want to stay for them’”.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Panda Mart ordered to pay after unfair dismissal

By Violet Li

A former Panda Mart worker has won compensation after the Fair Work Commission found she was unfairly dismissed from the company’s Cranbourne store.

The Commission also found the company continued to hold the worker’s passport and visa records.

Commissioner Connolly found Yi-Ting Yang was “harshly, unjustly and unreasonably” dismissed by Panda Mart Trading Pty Ltd after she was told not to return to work on 27 December 2025.

The Commission ordered Panda Mart to pay Ms Yang $14,269.46, less tax, plus $1,712.34 in superannuation within 14 days of the 19 June decision.

Ms Yang began working at Panda Mart’s Cranbourne store on 24 February 2025, where she was also known as “YangMei”

The Commission found she worked effectively full-time as a retail worker and was paid in cash.

She was initially paid $24 an hour, before her rate increased to $26 an hour, and she worked between eight and 10 hours a day, five days a week.

The decision found Ms Yang did not receive payslips, loadings, penalties or other entitlements under the National Employment Standards or the relevant modern award.

Ms Yang was rostered to work on 27 December 2025, shortly after Christmas, but was told by co-workers when she arrived that she had been dismissed.

She then contacted local store managers, who met her in the carpark and confirmed the dismissal.

Ms Yang told the Commission she understood the reasons given for her dismissal were alleged poor attendance and performance, both of which she denied.

Commissioner Connolly found there was no

evidence to support those allegations and that Ms Yang had not received any warnings about her attendance or performance during her employment.

The Commission found Panda Mart did not provide a valid reason for the dismissal, did not notify Ms Yang of a valid reason and did not give her an opportunity to respond before the decision was made.

Panda Mart did not attend key Commission conferences or file material in response to Ms Yang’s application, despite multiple emails and phone calls from the Commission.

In an email to the Commission, a representative for Panda Mart said the company did not recognise the person named as the applicant and raised concerns about identity, work rights and visa compliance.

However, Ms Yang filed supplementary material, including work rosters, photographs, internal communication records, visa references and work directions, to support her evidence that she was the person known as “YangMei” who worked for the company from February to December 2025.

Commissioner Connolly also noted Ms Yang’s evidence that Panda Mart continued to

hold her passport and visa records.

He described the matters as serious and said they suggested a disregard for Commonwealth laws and workers’ rights.

The Commission requested that the matter be referred to the Fair Work Ombudsman and other relevant authorities for further investigation.

Ms Yang did not seek reinstatement and had moved interstate since the dismissal.

The Commission found reinstatement was not appropriate because the employment relationship had broken down beyond repair.

Food relief demand doubles

By Jensy Callimootoo

The number of families seeking food relief in some areas of Casey has doubled in the past year, with local charities warning that the rising cost of living is pushing more residents into food insecurity and financial distress.

Volunteer-run organisation Find a Penny, which operates a food relief hub and three mobile soup kitchens across Melbourne’s southeast, now provides assistance to nearly 6,000 Victorians every week.

Their assistance is supported by OzHarvest which distributes food through their major hubs including one in Hallam.

Founder Bebe Stednik said the profile of people seeking help had changed dramatically.

“It’s not just low-income families anymore,” she said.

“We’re seeing people with mortgages, jobs and children who simply have no money left at the end of the week for healthy food.”

Operating from the Hampton Park Junior Football Club, the charity distributes fresh produce, pantry items, milk and meat to around 350 families every Thursday.

Many leave with several hundred dollars’ worth of groceries.

Among them is Pakenham resident Donita, a mother of 10 whose family relies on the service to help make ends meet. Donita and her family currently live in public housing and relies on OzHarvest to receive a weekly food parcel.

With one son living with severe autism and her husband working part-time, she said rising expenses had made everyday life increasingly difficult.

“Paying the rent and bills, there is not much left for groceries,” she said.

“It’s a great help, especially for fresh fruit and vegetables.”

Donita first connected with Find a Penny as a client before becoming a volunteer during the 2020 lockdowns.

She now helps at the food hub up to two days a week whenever family commitments allow.

From both sides of the service, she has witnessed the growing need in the community.

“Every week there are more and more new people,” she said.

“There are big families, people in shared accommodation, people with disabilities and families with children with special needs. More people need help.”

Volunteering has also given her a deeper appreciation for the effort required to support hundreds of households each week.

“You can see how much effort everyone puts in,” she said.

“To have so much food for so many families, there’s a lot of work behind it.”

Bebe says the organisation’s greatest challenge has been securing enough food to keep pace with demand, despite large quantities of edible food continuing to go to waste.

She said the financial strain was also taking a heavy emotional toll on families.

“Depression and anxiety are super high now because people are having to choose between

paying bills and buying food,” she said.

“Some people cry when they see the food we provide because they know they could never afford it.”

Victoria now leads the nation in food insecurity demand with 80% of charities overwhelmed by demand and nearly six in 10 running out of food. And a third of Victorians are now accessing help for the first time.

Christine Crowley, OzHarvest’s Victorian

State Manager said that currently children are the biggest group seeking food relief with schools becoming the last safety net with kids increasingly arriving hungry.

In turn, this impacts classroom behaviour and educational outcomes.

As demand continues to rise, Find a Penny is calling for more volunteers and community support to ensure vulnerable families do not go hungry.

Casey’s mobile infrastructure motion wins nationwide support

By Afraa Kori

Councils across Australia have backed a unanimous motion calling for mobile telecommunications infrastructure to be delivered earlier in new developments and treated as essential infrastructure, alongside water, sewerage, electricity and roads.

The motion, put forward by Casey Council at the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) National General Assembly in Canberra, urges the Federal Government to work with states and territories to introduce planning controls that require mobile telecommunications infrastructure to be delivered earlier in new residential and commercial developments, particularly in high-growth areas.

The motion, which was passed by all councils across Australia, argued that mobile connectivity should be treated as an essential service, alongside water, sewerage, electricity and roads.

Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen said as one of Australia’s fastest-growing municipalities, Casey must have a “strong voice” in national discussions on infrastructure, funding and policy.

“Our motion calling for earlier delivery of mobile phone infrastructure in new developments was unanimously supported by councils across the country,” he said.

“This is an important next step and a strong endorsement of the issues our residents face, where infrastructure often struggles to keep pace with population growth.”

He also took part in a panel at the National

Growth Areas Alliance event, discussing the challenges and advocacy priorities of growth councils, and presented on behalf of Greater SouthEast Melbourne, at a roundtable meeting with the Federal Government MPs about the priorities of the region’s Councils.

“Bringing together Ministers and Federal MPs from across the Greater South East Melbourne region also provided a rare opportunity to present our regions priorities directly to decision-mak-

ers,” Cr Koomen said.

“I was pleased to help lead national discussions on the challenges facing growth councils across Australia, ensuring Casey’s experience helps inform the advocacy priorities being put to the Federal Government.

“I look forward to seeing that advocacy lead to greater investment and better outcomes for Casey residents.”

Meanwhile, Deputy Mayor, Cr Michelle Crowther, met with Jamie Chaffey MP, Shadow Assistant Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories to discuss Casey’s population growth and the need for infrastructure funding to keep up with the growing population.

As well as advocating for the growth of suburbs in the current review of federal assistance grants, and how they are impacted by the current calculation

Cr Crowther said many of the challenges faced by Casey are also experienced by other Councils, particularly other high-growth Councils.

“It was great to have this opportunity to share information and learn innovative ways other councils address issues like infrastructure gaps, transport issues and community connections.”

The Australian Local Government Association’s National General Assembly, held from 23 to 25 June, is the nation’s largest annual local government gathering, bringing together many councils to advocate for federal funding ahead of the state election.

Mr and Mrs Officer now honoured together

Mr and Mrs Officer are now immortalised in the town, with Carol Porter’s plaque now installed beside her husband’s at Officer Hall.

Recently, members of the Porter family gathered to mark the installation of the new plaque at the hall. It was installed following Ms Porter’s passing in January this year, just over two years after Mr Porter died in December 2023.

Their honorary plaques rest side by side, both acknowledging the Medals of the Order of Australia (OAM) they received for their dedication to the Officer community.

Both Mr and Ms Porter dedicated decades of service to their town, garnering the title of “Mr and Mrs Officer.” Ms Porter’s contributions are innumerable, spanning the Officer Public Hall, Pakenham Bush Nursing Hospital, Officer Football Club and St John of God Hospital, along with many other organisations.

Mr Porter served for around 50 years as chair of the Officer Community Association. He spent many years on the Officer Hall Committee, the local Scout committee and the local church committee.

Most notably, he served for 51 years as president of the Officer Recreation Reserve Committee of Management. The upkeep of the reserve and its expansion over time into a premier venue for local sport were lifelong commitments for Mr Porter.

In 2016, Ms Porter received her Medal of the Order of Australia. Mr Porter received a posthumous OAM in 2024.

With the plaques for Mr and Ms Porter now together, an additional sign below acknowledges the community’s gratitude for their lifetime of service to Officer.

The Porter family and the Officer Hall Committee would like to extend their sincere thanks to Gary and Jo from Berwick Signs for manufacturing and donating the plaques.

One woman’s 443 charges sees Gembrook crime spike

By Afraa Kori

An alleged thief, who has been bailed on 443 charges, appears to be a large part of a 500 per cent reported crime spike in the small town of Gembrook.

According to the state’s Crime Statistics Agency, Gembrook recorded 539 offences in 2026, compared with just 94 offences last year.

The rise in crime across Gembrook can be attributed to two crime types: obtain benefit by deception and theft (other), which accounted for 41.5 per cent of offences in the reporting period.

A Victoria Police spokesperson said a 40-yearold woman from McMahons Creek is allegedly responsible for more than 430 incidents, relating to theft and deception offences.

She has been charged with 443 charges relating to theft, deception and using false documents, and was bailed to appear in Melbourne County Court on 12 November 2026.

The woman’s alleged offending occurred between July 2022 and June 2024. The matter was reported to police in 2024 and following a “lengthy investigation” , she was charged in May 2025.

Police explained that the alleged offences relate to the same alleged victim, who had been unaware that they had occurred.

Once they became aware, they then made a report to the police, who then launched an investigation.

“Because of this, the alleged offending fell in the most recent crime data reporting period and accounted for almost 82 per cent of all crimes in

Gembrook in the past year,” a spokesperson said.

The other common offence in the area was theft from motor vehicles, which rose from two incidents in the previous year to 12, in the year ending March 2026.

At a recent Casey crime forum, Crime Stoppers community engagement officer Aiden Bloomfield said statistics show people in Melbourne’s western suburbs are generally more likely to report crime than those in the south east.

He stressed the importance of reporting suspicious activity directly to police or Crime Stoppers rather than posting about it on social media.

Police also reminded vehicle owners to lock their cars and never leave valuables inside to deter opportunistic thieves.

Self-care in retirement

Making Self-Care a Priority in Retirement Retirement is finally your time. After years of working, raising a family, and putting others first, it’s time to turn that care and attention toward yourself. Self-care isn’t about indulgence—it’s about staying healthy, feeling good, and making sure you enjoy life on your own terms. If you’re wondering why self-care is important for seniors or looking for self-care tips for seniors that fit into your routine, you’re in the right place. Small daily habits and meaningful lifestyle changes can make a big difference in your well-being. Let’s explore ways to create a self-care plan that works for you.

Why Self-Care Matters As You Age

Taking care of yourself isn’t just about feeling better in the moment—it helps improve your overall quality of life. A strong self-care routine can:

Reduce stress – Relaxation techniques, such as breathing exercises, can improve mood and well-being. Try these breathing exercises for seniors to unwind.

Support independence – When you feel strong and well, it’s easier to manage your daily life with confidence. The best part? Self-care doesn’t need to be complicated or time-consuming. Small, daily actions can make a big difference.

How To Build A Self-Care Routine That Works For You

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to self-care. The key is to find activities that make you feel good and fit naturally into your life. Here are some simple ways to start.

Keep Your Body Moving

Exercise isn’t just about fitness—it’s about feeling good and staying active in a way that works for you. Whether it’s gentle stretching or a daily walk, movement is a key part of selfcare. Try: A brisk walk around the neighbourhood to boost circulation. Gentle stretching or yoga for flexibility and relaxation.

Prioritise Rest and Relaxation

A good night’s sleep can do wonders for your mood and energy. Try: Sticking to a regu-

lar sleep schedule. Unwinding before bed with a book or soft music. Rest isn’t a luxury—it’s essential for your overall health and well-being. Do More of What You Love

Self-care isn’t just about health—it’s about joy, too. Take time to enjoy the activities that bring you happiness: Painting, knitting, or

another creative hobby. If you want a relaxed, community-driven space to explore new interests, retirement villages are a fantastic setting for retirees to focus on well-being and enjoyment.

This stage of life is yours—so make self-care a priority. A well-balanced routine can help you stay independent, healthy, and engaged

in the things that bring you joy. If you’re looking for a retirement community that values well-being, our Centennial Living Retirement Villages offer welcoming spaces where health, happiness and connection come first. If you would like to learn more, visit www.centennialliving.com.au or call 1300 098 000 to speak to one of our lovely team members today!

Cheers for a draw

Socceroos fans rode the roller-coaster ride of a 0-0 draw between Australia and Paraguay in a live World Cup telecast on Bunjil Place’s big screen on Friday 26 June.

While it was a scoreless game, plenty of tension in the atmosphere was felt as Australia attained its desired goal of making the round of 32. Australia’s next match is from 4am on Saturday 4 July against Egypt, which came in second in their group after Belgium. Most World Cup matches are beamed live on the big screen at Bunjil Place. Details: bunjilplace.com.au/news/fifa-world-cup-on-big-screen

Cranbourne West driver charged after fatal crash

A Cranbourne West man has been charged afterafatalcrashinDandenongSouthlastweek.

The 21-year-old driver was interviewed and charged by Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives with culpable driving and dangerous driving causing death.

The charges follow a single-vehicle crash on South Gippsland Highway on Friday 26 June about 1.50am.

One of the passengers, a 21-year-old man from Cranbourne, died at the scene.

The other passenger, a 20-year-old man from Narre Warren South, was taken to hospital at the time with non-life-threatening injuries.

The charged man has been bailed to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Friday 3 July.

Pair charged after alleged crime spree

Two teenage boys have been charged after three teens were allegedly robbed at knifepoint during a crime spree that moved from Frankston to Cranbourne on the morning of Sunday 28 June.

Police allege two males first approached a teenage boy at a bus stop on Young Street, Frankston, about 9.50am after pulling up in a stolen Toyota.

One of the males allegedly showed the victim a knife before making demands for his puffer jacket.

Theboyhandedoverthejacket,andthepair allegedly fled in the car.

Police say the same males then travelled to Cranbourne, where they allegedly stopped at a bus stop on High Street a short time later.

The pair allegedly got out of the Toyota wearing ski masks, with one holding a knife, before approaching two teens and demanding their shoes and clothing.

The victims handed over their belongings, police said.

A third person, allegedly seated in the back of the Toyota, then told the two males to demand one of the victim’s jumpers, which was also handed over.

None of the victims was physically injured.

Officers later spotted the Toyota travelling through Cranbourne about 11am, before it was followed to Dandenong with assistance from Victoria Police’s State Command Control Centre.

Protective Services Officers saw the vehicle pass Dandenong Railway Station before it pulled into a nearby shopping centre car park.

Detectives, highway patrol officers and uniform police then moved in and arrested three teenage boys nearby.

Police recovered the Toyota, which investigators allege had been stolen from a Noble Park address over the weekend.

A 16-year-old boy has been charged with three counts of armed robbery and theft of a motor vehicle.

A 17-year-old boy has been charged with three counts of armed robbery, theft of a motor vehicle and dangerous driving.

Both have been remanded to appear before a children’s court at a later date.

A 13-year-old boy was interviewed by detectives and released pending further investigation.

Males wanted for armed assault

Police are investigating an armed assault of a man a soccer game in Doveton earlier this year.

An 18-year-old Clyde North man, who wasonthefieldatareserveonPowerRoad, was assaulted by three males about 8pm on Thursday, 23 April, police say.

It followed an earlier physical altercation between two teenagers, before the victim intervened and split the parties up.

Officers were told one of the attackers called two other males, who arrived a short time later armed with a metal pole and a baseball bat.

The trio then assaulted the victim, who suffered serious injuries such as facial fractures. He required hospital treatment.

The attackers, who are not believed to be known to the victim, fled the scene before police arrived.

A 17-year-old boy from the Narre Warren area was arrested on 29 May as part of the investigation.

He was released pending further enquiries. Police believe two males remain outstanding at this stage.

The first is described as Middle Eastern appearance, in his late teens-early 20s, medium build with short black hair and a goatee.

The second male is described as Middle Eastern appearance, in his late teens-early 20s and medium build. He had long black curly hair, a black moustache and a goatee.

Police believe people at the game witnessed this incident, and some may have mobile phone or dashcam footage.

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

Connecting through art

By Jensy Callimootoo

Families from across Melbourne came together during the school holidays for a special community event designed to promote creativity, mindfulness and positive wellbeing through art.

The Sketch & Sip workshop, hosted by the Australian Filipino Community Services (AFCS) at Maharlika Lodge, welcomed 19 participants, most of them children under 12 years old.

The free event encouraged parents and children to share a creative experience while building social connections in a relaxed and welcom-

ing environment.

Held in AFCS’ respite house, Maharlika Lodge, the session took place among Filipino artworks and cultural displays, creating a warm “home away from home” atmosphere for participants of all backgrounds.

Melbourne-based Filipino artist Mar Jefferson Go, who creates under the name BoatPaperPlane, led the workshop.

Go drew on themes of memory, home and identity and invited participants to explore what ‘home’ means to them through art.

Children filled their sketchbooks with colour-

ful depictions of Philippine Christmas lanterns, rice fields, sunsets and family homes.

While participants were encouraged to put away their phones and rely on memory and observation, fostering creativity and meaningful interaction.

Throughout the session, attendees exchanged drawing tips, shared ideas and helped one another with their artworks, demonstrating the power of art to bring people together.

The indoor activity was complemented by time outdoors, where children enjoyed feeding and interacting with Maharlika Lodge’s resident sheep.

SEMMA calls for stable, cheaper energy

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Manufacturers need a more reliable and cheaper energy supply or they’ll close, according to speakers at an industry forum in Dingley on Thursday 25 June.

The South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance forum pushed against the state’s preference for renewables as the solution, as it talked up natural gas and nuclear energy.

SEMMA chief executive Honi Walker said manufacturers were the “scapegoat” in the Government’s energy policy.

“Entire sectors are facing ruin through this government’s ideological position on fossil fuels.

“If we don’t have a stable and affordable energy supply, then businesses will close, jobs will be lost and entire manufacturing sectors will close.”

Walker called for an end of the nuclear power moratorium in Australia and Victoria and to immediately start gas exploration in Victoria.

She said a domestic nuclear energy industry would create “highly skilled jobs” and an “affordable, clean and stable energy supply for industry”

“Dozens of countries around the world have a safe and successful nuclear industry – why not Australia?”

Meanwhile, SEMMA vice-president Ian Cubitt told of his Bayswater sheetmetal fabrication company Catten Industries adapting to the energy transition.

Electricity costs doubled in the year after the Hazelwood coal plant closed in 2017, he said.

“A surprise like that can close a business down.”

At a large initial cost, Catten invested in solar electrification and battery storage to reduce energy costs by up to $30,000 a year. They are self-sufficient in summer, and have reduced

their winter bills by 25 per cent. Cubitt said the state should commission more gas-fired power stations as a “practical solution” for stable baseline power.

There were already seven gas stations online, with more that could be built within five years.

He said “we have missed the boat” with a nuclear power industry, which would take at least

15 years to create in Australia.

Dave Collins, who founded environmental engineering firm Synergetics, said the renewable energy transition was “misguided”

“Nowhere in the world has this transition worked – why do we think we can do it?”

Collins called for nuclear energy immediately “while we still have gas to enable our industries to run”

Opposition energy spokesperson David Davis pledged that the Coalition, if elected in November, would re-open natural gas exploration licences in Victoria to bring down energy costs.

“The state has gas. We’re going to get it. We’re going after it.

“Victoria’s economy can’t rely on wind and solar. It simply cannot provide the baseload of energy required to run industry, hospitals and our essential services.”

Libertarian MP David Limbrick also declared his support for nuclear energy and Victoria’s “abundant gas”

There were no speakers from the State Government, which has set a target of net zero emissions by 2045 and 95 per cent renewable energy sources by 2035.

This includes reintroducing the State Electricity Commission (SEC) to deliver renewable energy, with a pledge of lower power bills.

FOCUS ON ... SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

Everything you need

Life is busy, which is why having everything you need in one convenient location makes all the difference. At St. Germain Central in Clyde North, shopping, dining and everyday essentials come together in a welcoming local destination designed to make every visit easy and enjoyable.

Whether you’re picking up the weekly groceries, grabbing dinner on the way home or meeting friends for coffee, St. Germain Central offers a growing mix of retailers and eateries to suit every occasion. Anchored by Coles, the centre is home to fresh produce from Timmy’s Fresh, pantry essentials from Sanjha Punjab Supermarket, premium cuts, and the freshest seafood from HDH Quality Meat & Seafood, and a range of specialty stores that make everyday errands simple and convenient.

When it’s time to eat, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Enjoy the healthy, flame-grilled flavours of Chickita®, where all-natural chicken is paired with six signature Asian-inspired sauces ranging from mild to flaming hot, classic pizzas

from Domino’s, fresh and flavour-packed meals from Asian Food Express & Sushi Dong, authentic Indian cuisine at Spice Nation, or grab a quick bite from St. Germain Kebab. If you’re looking to slow down, Saint Germain Cafe is the perfect place to catch up over coffee, while those with a sweet tooth can indulge in refreshing treats from Agha Juice, fresh baked delights from K&A Bakery, or celebrate a special occasion with a cake from The Cheesecake Shop.

More than just a shopping centre, St. Germain Central has become a destination where convenience meets community. With ample parking, a growing selection of quality retailers, and a diverse range of dining options all in one location, it’s the perfect place to shop, dine and connect close to home.

Visit St. Germain Central at 21 Saint Germain Boulevard, Clyde North, and discover just how easy local shopping can be.

Inclusive holiday fun at Clip ‘n Climb Berwick

Families seeking an exciting and supportive school holiday experience can discover the perfect mix of adventure and inclusion at Clip ‘n Climb Berwick’s specialised holiday program.

A key feature of the program is the high level of support provided to participants. Participants are supported by Therapy Assistants at a ratio of two participants to one Therapy Assistant, as well as two qualified Occupational Therapists supervising each session. This personalised approach helps children build confidence, develop social skills and enjoy a fun, active day in a safe environment.

The program is an accessible option for many families during the school holidays.

As Australia’s largest Clip ‘n Climb venue, Clip

‘n Climb Berwick is home to an incredible range of world-class attractions designed to keep children active, engaged and entertained for hours. With climbing challenges, adventure activities and interactive experiences, there is something for every interest and ability.

Running from 9am to 3pm, the holiday program is packed with exciting activities including Clip ‘n Climb wall challenges, SkyTrail, SkyRail, the Leap of Faith, Giant Drop Slides, Spider Tower games and interactive GameWall experiences. Children will also enjoy an epic Nerf battle, pizza-making activities, craft creations and a fun game of Climb Cluedo. Activities are adapted to suit different ages and abilities, ensuring every participant can get involved.

Parents looking to beat the school holiday boredom without breaking the bank have a major reason to celebrate this July. Thompson Parkway Shopping Centre has officially announced it will host a highly anticipated, completely FREE children’s event: The Wiggles + World of Dance Presents: Little Movers Sensory Play Zone. Designed specifically for energetic toddlers and preschoolers aged 1 to 6 years old, the interactive zone promises to keep young minds and bodies active through music and movement.

The exclusive event runs for three days only, from Wednesday 8 July to Friday 10 July. The interactive zone will open from 10am to 12pm daily, making it the perfect mid-morning activity for families. For ultimate convenience, the play area is situated right outside Woolworths, allowing parents to easily combine a morning of vibrant childhood entertainment with their daily grocery shopping or a quick coffee run.

The Little Movers Sensory Play Zone offers a safe and creative space for young children to burn off energy while exploring their senses. Conveniently located at the Corner of Thompsons Road and South Gippsland Highway in Cranbourne North, Thompson Parkway is highly accessible for local residents and surrounding communities.

With the holidays here, this limited three-day event is expected to be a popular destination for local families. Parents are encouraged to head down early to join in on the fun. For more details on the event, community members can visit the official centre website at thompsonparkway.com.au

FOCUS ON ... SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

Winter magic has arrived

Melbourne families are set to embrace the magic of winter when FROSTED – A Winter Spectacular arrives in Narre Warren this June and July, transforming the south-east into a festive wonderland unlike anything seen before. Running from June 19 to July 19 under the heated Big Top opposite Westfield Fountain Gate, the event promises a month of entertainment, creativity, and unforgettable family memories.

Designed especially for young families and children aged 10 and under, FROSTED brings together the enchantment of Christmas and the excitement of winter in an immersive indoor experience. Guests will step into a frostfilled world featuring interactive attractions, live performances, themed activities, and plenty of opportunities to create lasting memories.

Among the highlights are PAW Patrol character meet-and-greets, live shows featuring favourite characters, winter-themed mini golf, an artificial ice-skating rink, inflatable play zones, creative craft activities, and the chance to meet the Snow Queen and Mrs Claus. Budding bakers can even make their own treats at Rudolf Biscuit Bakery, while families can enjoy a range of winter-inspired food and drinks throughout the venue.

With general admission, VIP experiences, and family ticket packages available, the event has been designed to make the magic accessible to everyone. Organisers say the spectacular aims to deliver a heartwarming escape from the winter chill, combining festive fun with a unique indoor environment where imagination can flourish.

As Melbourne settles into the colder months, FROSTED offers a welcome opportunity for families to come together, celebrate the season, and enjoy a magical winter adventure close to home. Whether it’s skating, crafting, meeting beloved characters, or simply

Local success at convention

Delegates representing eleven Victorian regional groups and 70 Victorian Show Societies attended Victorian Agricultural Convention in Wangaratta 19th-21st June. On Friday night a meet and greet session with a welcome address by the local mayor, Irene Grant was held at the Vine Hotel where mingling and networking with show representatives made for a pleasant evening.

Over the weekend workshops were held with enthusiastic addresses by representatives from Gallager Insurance, WorkSafe and Melbourne Royal to inform and update all showdelegates. On Saturday afternoon, fun actives included a visit to the Milawa Cheese factory or a historical Ned Kelly Hub and Siege Walk in Glenrowan.

The Saturday evening presentation dinner was attended by 170 guests where a delicious meal was enjoyed by everyone. During the day judging took place of various competitions. The regional finalists of the senior carrot cakes and junior carrot and date muffins competed for the champion trophy. Sue-Ellen Bunting from Sale representing Gippsland won the senior carrot cake and Xaviour Reino from Sunbury representing Central and Upper Goulburn won the junior muffins. Mother and daughter Nicole and Amity from Foster Show represented Central and South Gippsland with their cakes. These competitions were sponsored by Rocky Lamattina and Sons Carrot Farm.

Fun competitions for the weekend were a scarf, any medium and a jar of pickles. There were approximately 30 entries in each of these classes which made judging quite difficult. The scarf was won by Elizabeth Hill representing Bunyip Show with a very fine handspun merino scarf. The pickles section was won by Heather Tyrrell from Yarrawonga with Zucchini pickles. Pat Jones from Pakenham was happy to receive a commended for her crunchy celery pickles.

Last year VAS introduced further Show Awards to showcase local shows. These included Best Innovation, small medium and large shows; Best Marketing Campaign small medium and large shows and People’s Choice Award where the community votes ‘on line’ for its local show. Foster Show in South Gippsland won the award for Best innovation large show with is ‘Back to Back Wool Challenge’ . Berwick Show was also a nomination in this category and Dandenong show was nominated in the medium show category. Donald Show was the winner from the 10 finalists of the People’s Choice Award with 721 of the 2518 votes. Whittlesea Show was second with 255 votes.

Further awards were Outstanding Individual Contributions in three age groups, Meritorious Service Awards and one Life Membership award. Bridget Leahy from Berwick Show and Kate Reedy from Dandenong Show (Central and South Gippsland Group) were nominations in Outstanding Individual Achievements in the under 39 years age group, with Kate Reedy as the runner up. A Meritorious service award was presented to Sharon Greenhill from Balnarring. The life membership award was presented to 90 year old Edward Troutbeck who first showed his cattle at the Berwick Show at the age of 13. Establishing his own guernsey stud he has Involved in three

shows societies for 70 years and is a tireless supporter.

The final event for the evening was the announcement of the Junior Show Ambassador Award (16-19 years). Six representatives from var-

ious regions were interviewed by a judging panel over the day and answered questions in front of the 170 strong crowd. The judge noted they were all winners but announced Max Henderson-Drife from Clunes Show representing Midlands Group as the overall winner. He will go on the represent

Meritorious Service Award for Sharon Greenhill

By VAS Exectutive Officer, Mr Rod Bowles

Victorian Agricultural Shows Meritorious Service Award for Balnarring Show’s Sharon Green-

hill

At the recent annual VAS Convention held in Wangaratta a very surprised Sharon Greenhill from Balnarring Show was presented with a Meritorious Service Award by VAS Exectutive Officer, Mr Rod Bowles. The VAS presentation dinner was attended by170 guests from 70 show societies around Victoria. Many awards were presented during the evening to show represntatives from all over Victoria for various initiatives and catagories. Rod Bowles described Central and South Gippsland’s represntative Sharon’s work over the years as follows;

Sharon started at the Balnaring Pony Club as a parent and is now a life member who returns each year to almost single handedly run their annual Agricultural Show. Sharon has been instrumental in running the club shows for 26 years as an open horse show firstly, then initiating Balnarring Pony Club getting VAS affiliation

which has continued to run a very successful VAS Affiliated show for the past 10 years. Each year her efforts allows the Pony Club to fund their coaching at the club ensuring they have the best coaches to teach a range of riding skills.

Since the VAS affilliation she has been responsible for basically all the planning and preparation. Sharon has been instumental in developing Balnarring Pony Club to be more than a horse show which now runs homecraft competitions with several competing at group level and have had some successful winners at State Final level. Sharon has most times collected the items and brings the into the group final and made the trip to the Melbourne Showgrounds to ensure that the competitors get their entries in the finals. Sharon assists with the Central and South Gippsland Group Final each year stewarding for Arts, Crafts and Cooking.

Sharon has attended the VAS Conference for at least the past ten years and has been a Horse Committee Delegate for Balnarring. Sharon is also a valued VAS Saddle Championship committee member and assists with the planning

and running of that show. She plays an intrumental part each year collecting the interstate judges from the airport and providing transport to Bendigo during the weekend, then returning them to the airport again. She is also a steward for the weekend and has on previous occasions been a judge. Sharon is a very highly regarded Horse Show judge and has previously judged at many Royals, National and State Championship shows. She has been a steward at the Melbourne Royal for many yeas as well.

Sharon was previosly a member of the Victorian Mounted Police Branch and rode in the musical rides that some of you may remember back in the day at the Melbourne Show. Sharon has two daughters that she has travelled the countryside with from a young age competing at various shows and has been successful at all levels of competition.

The VAS Board is pleased to endorse a Meritoious Award to Sharon Greenhill for her outstanding contibution for Victorian Agricultural Shows.

WHAT’S ON

Australia v Egypt at Bunjil Place

The Socceroos have made it to the knockout stages. With Egypt as their opponent in the round of 32.

The match is on Saturday 4 July, kick-off is at 4am AEST.

• The match can be watched live at Bunjil Place’s Outdoor Screen in Narre Warren.

Men’s Discussion Group Pakenham

Looking for a decent yarn and a laugh with local blokes?

Great Conversation. No Agendas. Just Good Blokes.

If you’ve been looking for a place to connect with genuine guys, talk about the stuff that actually matters, and have a laugh along the way, OM:NI Pakenham is looking for you.

This is your invitation to connect, share life experiences, and talk about everything from the everyday to the extraordinary.

We offer a completely informal, supportive space for senior men—no strings attached, just good company and great conversation over a cuppa.

We make it easy to fit into your calendar at Outlook (24 Toomuc Valley Road, Pakenham):

Daytime: 2nd Wednesday of the month, 9:15 am – 12pm

Evening: 1st Wednesday of the month, 7pm –9:30 pm

Get out of the house, meet some fantastic local characters, and bring your ideas to the table.

To lock in your spot for the next session, contact:

• Darren (Day Group): 0418 300 233

• Ken (Evening Group): 0419 574 865

Learn to Play The Ukulele

The Ukulele is a very simple instrument to learn –perfect for the lazy potential musician.

No need for the ability to read music or practise endless scales.

Join this relaxed, happy group to sing and strum away, making magical music together - aiming for progress rather than perfection. Bring a love of music, a sense of fun and a Ukulele.

Nine-week course - bookings essential Outlook Community Centre, Toomuc Valley Road, Pakenham

Friday 24th July, 10:30am - 12:00pm.

• For further information contact the Outlook Community Centre on 5940 4728 Pakenham Garden Club

Meets on the 1st Tuesday of the month, except in January and November.

In November, we meet on the 2nd Tuesday. We visit Gardens, Nurseries, Places of Interest, we have 3-4 Meetings a year, at the Cardinia Club in Pakenham, with a speaker, Raffle, and Plant Share.

After the meeting, we have lunch at the Cardinia Club. New members most welcome.

• Contact Mary - 0437 474 452

Cranbourne Seniors Club

Morning Melodies with Gavin Chatelier, first Friday of the month, 11am-3pm; $15 lunch included. Details: Marilyn, 0432 107 590 or facebook.com/ groups/487808127399953

BUSINESS PROFILE

Probus Club of Pakenham East

The Probus Club of Pakenham East warmly invites retired and semi-retired members of our community to join us.

We offer a variety of enjoyable activities to suit all interests, including dine-outs, ten-pin bowling, craft groups, walking groups, theatre outings, and gardening—just to name a few.

Our meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month at the Cardinia Club, 71 Racecourse Road, commencing at 10:30am.

Each meeting begins with a short general session, followed by a break for morning tea.

This provides a great opportunity to chat and get to know fellow members.

The meeting then resumes with the introduction of a guest speaker.

At the conclusion of the meeting, members are invited to stay and enjoy lunch together.

For more information or to express your interest in joining, please contact:

• President John: 0420 936 240

• Secretary Dorothy: probuspakeast@gmail.com

Pakenham Seniors

People interested in a happy, social atmosphere and meeting new friends are invited to visit Pakenham Senior Citizens Clubrooms at 38 James Street on any Monday morning.

• The club has regular activities. Rooms are available to rent. Telephone 5941 1297.

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 Road, Cranbourne East. Details: Jenny, 0438 358 032.

Fight Parkinson’s Support Group

Pakenham

Do you, or someone near and dear to you. Have Parkinson’s?

We invite those with Parkinson’s and their carers to join us for a cuppa and a chat.

We meet between 10am and 12 noon on the third Wednesday each month at Officer Football Club at 20 Starling Road, Officer.

• For further information call Tracey on 0494 562 509.

Pakenham Probus

The Original Club in Pakenham for over 30 years. Pakenham Probus welcomes retired people from the community for fun and friendship.

They meet at the Cardinia Club on the first Thursday of the month at 10am. They have the meeting, followed by morning tea and a chat.

Then a guest speaker is welcomed to enlighten or entertain. The group then stays at the venue for a pay yourself lunch and chat.

During the month, the group provides at minimal costs 10-pin bowling, craft activities, book club, tours, yearly holiday, 2 coffee mornings, dine out and a walking group.

• You can take part in whichever activities you want. Join and have a great time. Contact John Stitt: 0407766494

Inner Wheel Pakenham

If you are interested in building cherished friendships, serving our communities whilst making a difference in this world, come and see how the largest world wide womens organisation works together.

Inner Wheel of Pakenham are looking for more members to join for a new schedule of events this year.

Events included talks from guest speakers, movie days, coffee mornings, craft days and other special events.

Meetings are held on the 1st Thursday morning of each month.

• Please check out the Inner Wheel Australia website for more information, nnerwheelaustralia.org.au and contact the local Club at iiw. au.pakenham@gmail.com if you are interested in joining.

Learn to play bridge

Berwick Bridge Club is looking for new members. There are two free beginners’ courses. One starting on Friday morning 6thth February 2026 from 10:00-12 noon and the second one on Monday night starting 2nd February 2026 from 7-9pm. Both courses run for 10/12 weeks. Lessons are held at Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House, 21A Bemersyde drive Berwick. No partner is required.

• To reserve your place, please phone Maree on 97022348.

Little learner’s playgroup

• Join Aspire Pakenham centre every Friday morning from 10:30-11:30am for free playgroup sessions for your little one. It’s the perfect opportunity for children to play, explore and make new friends, with a new theme every week. Hosted by Anglicare Victoria, the event will be held at the community centre, 75 Army Rd in Pakenham. Cardinia Prostate Cancer Support Group

Meeting on the first Thursday of each month at Outlook Community Centre, 24 Toomuc Valley Road, Pakenham

• All are welcome. For more information please contact Span Hanna on 0422917386 or email spanetc@hotmail.com

Berwick Bridge Club

Enjoy playing cards? Are you looking for some exercise for your brain that is both fun and challenging?

• Berwick Bridge Club is looking for new members. For more info please phone Maree on 9702 2348.

Get Involved with Pakenham Central Probus

If you are retired or semi-retired, Pakenham Central Probus offers you a dynamic and friendly club. Activities include dine outs, outings, coffee mornings, walking group, craft group, ten-pin bowling, trips as well as concerts and theatre outings. Monthly meetings are held in Pakenham on Thursdays with reports on the Club’s activities, interesting speakers and opportunities to socialise and sign up for any of the activities that interest you. There’s never a dull moment—good company, great experiences, and memories to cherish. Come along for a visit to see if the Club suits your needs.

The community makes all the difference

Downsizing isn’t a compromise – it’s a choice to live better. It’s choosing more time, more connection, more of the life you’ve been looking forward to. The right community doesn’t just give you somewhere to live; it can quietly reshape how your days feel.

Location and everyday living

The location you choose shapes everything. Being close to family and friends makes staying connected easy, while great local shops, healthcare and a favourite cafe can make everyday life feel effortless.

It’s also worth thinking about what you enjoy most – morning walks, afternoons by the water, discovering new local spots. The right location doesn’t just accommodate those things; it naturally becomes part of your rhythm.

A community that connects

The best communities don’t force connection; they make space for it. A relaxed BBQ, a shared fitness class, a familiar face at the clubhouse –that’s often how a sense of belonging begins.

Whether you prefer to be part of everything or simply enjoy knowing people are around, it should always feel natural. There’s comfort in being able to join in when it suits you.

Spaces built for living

Great communities are designed to be enjoyed, not just lived in. Thoughtfully designed shared spaces, from clubhouses to walking tracks, create opportunities to stay active, unwind, or spend time with others.

And if a pet is part of your world, having open, welcoming spaces for them matters just as much.

Peace of mind, every day

There’s a quiet reassurance that comes with feeling looked after. Whether you’re away travelling or simply out for the day, knowing the community is well managed and neighbours are nearby brings a sense of ease to everyday life.

More time for what matters

One of the biggest shifts with downsizing is getting your time back. A well-designed, lowmaintenance home means less upkeep and more freedom – more time doing what you enjoy, less time worrying about the rest.

• Contact: our Jan 0417 371 004 or email pakenhamcentralprobus@gmail.com

Garfield Exercise Group

• As part of the Bunyip Friendship Hub, they meet at the Garfield Football Club rooms on Tuesdays at 10am.

Garfield Sewing Club

Come along with your sewing machine or use one of ours and join a group of sewers creating clothes, quilts, crafts, repairing and upcycling. All skill levels welcome but a gold coin donation.

• This event is held every Tuesday during the school term at Garfield Scout Hall.

Food Relief with Vegetables and Fruit

• Available every second Wednesday at 2pm at MoyYan Neighbourhood House in Garfield. Inner Wheel Club of Berwick

The Inner Wheel Club (IW) Berwick is a ladies international friendship club which raises funds to support local charities and other worthwhile causes.

They have a dinner meeting on the first Monday of the month and enjoy a range of activities including guest speakers, morning teas, book club and craft afternoons

• For more information, visit their Facebook page or contact iiw.au.berwick@gmail.com

Berwick Springs VIEW Club

Affiliated with The Smith Family, the Berwick Springs VIEW Club is a not-for-profit organisation, with the aim to fundraise to support Learning for Life students.

The club currently supports 10 students of varying ages with their education expenses.

The club meets on the first Monday of each month in the Berwick Springs Hotel function room from 11.15am, where members enjoy a lunch and then host a guest speaker.

Throughout the year, the club has a couple of special fundraisers, as well as casual morning tea and lunch for interested ladies.

The club is always looking for new members in all age groups.

• For more information, contact Shirley on 0438 191 759 or email berwicksprings.viewclub@ gmail.com

U3A Casey

Did you know that U3A Casey now has 745 members and operates out of multiple venues across the Casey area?

It offers 65 different classes, ranging from exercise/movement/dance groups to literature, crafts, music, discussion groups and more.

• If you want to keep both your mind and body active after retirement, then visit u3acasey.org.au Casey Cardinia Life Activities Club Weekly social activities with dancing, trips away via coach, a weekly morning coffee club, monthly Saturday country pub lunches, monthly Tuesday dine-outs, a weekly walking group, a weekly table tennis group, seasonal daytime musical theatre outings, entertainment function days and more.

• • Thursdays 2pm for socialising and low-key dancing at Brentwood Park Neighbourhood Houseat 21A Bemersyde Drive or Wednesdays 10am for coffee and chats at the new François cafe in front of Myer in Fountain Gate. Details: Garry0409 785 400

Take your time exploring. Walk the streets, step inside the Clubhouse, imagine your routine unfolding there. Start by finding your nearest community – you might be closer than you think. You can experience it firsthand at Lifestyle Communities Officer, located at 114 Rix Rd, Officer. The community makes all the difference.

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Lazy Frog Gifts brings it all together with a grin — curated joy, playful polish, and gifts that feel personal. Pop in for a quick browse, leap out with something delightful: a Tiny Wonder that charms, a Love, Vera piece that slays, and a Warmies cuddle that saves your evening. Ribbit-approved, smile-guaranteed.

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· Phone: (03) 5941 2225

Charming gifts await you at Lazy Frog Gifts, Pakenham.

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Roos hold off Healesville

By Justin Schwarze

Officer is in control of its own finals destiny after adding another strong win to its locker by knocking off Healesville at Rob Porter Reserve in round 11 of the Outer East Premier Division.

The Roos’ impressive season continued and the vibe around Starling Road is that this team is a lot more than a surprise packet.

Officer currently sits fifth with the league’s fourth-best percentage, a stark improvement after fighting relegation at one stage last season.

It took a gutsy effort to hold off the Bloods, who never wavered, but the young Kangaroos showed an admirable amount of grit and maturity to withstand multiple pushes.

Healesville opened its account as young star Jett Barclay put a set shot through in the opening minute before Roos playing coach Nathan Allen received a free kick and fired home for the hosts’ first.

It was then the skipper’s turn, with Ryan Hutton finding Brent Moloney for a strong overhead mark before the captain went back and kicked truly.

Superstar key forward Max Donegan made it two goals apiece in the first quarter as he gathered a spilled mark from Tyler De Jong and snapped it home.

At the first change, Officer led 2.4 (16) to 2.3 (15).

Donegan buried his second goal at the eightminute mark of the second, putting Healesville in front before Jackson Honey laid a solid tackle and was rewarded with a free kick.

Honey then made no mistakes on his attempt, followed by Diesel De Santis looping a clever handball over a pack to Hunter Beaumont, who had space to run it in.

The back-to-back goals put Officer in front 4.7 (31) to 3.4 (22) as the players headed for the rooms.

And it became three in a row on the other side of halftime as Lachie Ward got a fortuitous bounce right into his hands in the forward 50 and he took advantage, putting it through off a step.

Ben Giliberto then marked on the lead and had a shot from an angle which fell short, but Moloney read it best and marked it right on the behind line.

Theskipperranaroundonhisleftandsnapped home the Roos’ fourth unanswered major.

De Santis and Beaumont combined again a few minutes later, with De Santis lacing out Beaumont in the pocket before Beaumont slotted his second with a classy finish.

Officer stretched the margin out to 27 points, but the Bloods hit straight back from the ensuing centre bounce, going deep inside 50 immediately where Declan Sikorski reeled in a juggling grab.

Sikorski put through a settler, which was soon backed up by Donegan converting his third.

Allen then showed some craftiness, receiving a handball from Moloney inside 50 and faking a handpass to shed his defender before splitting the middle as he kicked goalward.

Donegan continued to keep the visitors in it, marking on the lead before belting his set shot home from distance.

But yet again, the hosts had the answer with Bryce Klenner coming out of a contest with a big pack mark and guiding his kick home to help his side to a 9.8 (62) to 6.4 (40) three-quarter time lead.

Healesville looked threatening to open the last term, missing three chances early before Ward got out the back and snapped a momentumcrushing major.

Josh Brown snuck forward and booted the sealer with a set shot from long range at the 19-minute mark, putting the Roos 30 points up.

Brodie Snooks added the icing to the cake following two Bloods goals with a huge leap and grab before nailing his attempt to see the hosts post a 12.9 (81) to 8.12 (60) triumph.

Donegan finished with five of Healesville’s eight goals, while Allen, Beaumont, Moloney and Ward booted a pair apiece for the victorious Roos.

“I was stoked with how we played,” senior coach Allen said.

“We went back to sort of the start of the year in the way we were moving it, we were moving it freely.

“We were able to use the space on the ground and get the ball moving at speed.

“Once we do that, because of how agile our forward line is, it does really suit us.

“We’ve just got to be able to translate that into being able to do it when the pressure’s on us and we’ve got to tweak it a little bit on the smaller grounds.

“But at the end of the day, you still want to change angles and move the ball forward so we’ve just got to be able to do it on the smaller grounds as well.”

There’s one area that Officer has improved on significantly in 2026: consistency.

Allen noted that there’s still room for improvement, but his troops are competitive in every game and have a healthy percentage of 107.62.

“It’s definitely there week in and week out, but I’m not 100 percent happy with it because I still think we’re showing up but there’ll be a five-minute patch or in red time we’ll give a goal or two,” he said of his team’s consistency.

“Consistency has definitely improved overall but there’s still a few things we need to work on if we want to challenge the better teams.

“It probably comes back to the overall confidence of the group.

“We’re still learning but we’re getting to the point of knowing how to win.

“Even when a team comes at you, you’re still confident in the blokes around you to keep playing your way and kick the next goal.

“We just kept playing our way and trusted that it was going to win us the game.”

Last season feels like an eternity ago with how the team is travelling and the quality of football the Kangaroos are playing is night and day

compared to 2025.

With Saturday’s win, Officer tied its win total for last season with seven games to go this year.

Not only does this show significant strides across the entire group, but it also puts the Roos in with a realistic shot of a finals berth.

The ladder is tight, so every game from now on feels like an elimination final - a feeling Officer is embracing despite being such a young list.

“With where they’ve come from, they’re thriving in the aspect that every game matters,” Allen said.

“You’re not going to certain games knowing whether you’re going to win or lose, we feel like we can win every single game.

“It does help with the depth that we’ve got because everyone’s challenging for spots every week so you have to show up or someone’s pushing through.

“They’re confident and thriving that every game matters and they’ve got to put their best foot forward.”

AROUND THE GROUNDS

The game at Gembrook Reserve between the Brookers and Warburton Millgrove was one of many victims to the weekend’s fog as the game was called off midway through the third quarter.

At the time, the Burras led 8.12 (60) to 4.6 (30) and the result meant they took the four points.

Sahaf Ali booted a pair for the defeated Brookers, while skipper Josh Tilly was outstanding in the middle.

Jack Farrugia slotted three for the Burras.

The result feels like it has unofficially relegated Gembrook Cockatoo as it puts a three-game and significant percentage gap between the Brookers and Warburton Millgrove.

Gembrook’s run home is incredibly tough, with games to come against Mount Evelyn (third), Upwey Tecoma (fourth), Wandin (first), Officer (fifth), Woori Yallock (seventh), Monbulk (sixth) and Olinda Ferny Creek (second).

Mount Evelyn came out on top in a scrap against Woori Yallock, winning 4.14 (38) to 3.6 (30).

The Rovers kicked the only two goals of the last to edge out the Tigers in a game where goals were hard to come by and a hot commodity.

Monbulk caused the upset of the round and steamrolled Upwey Tecoma in the fourth quarter to come out victorious 11.12 (78) to 7.8 (50) at home.

The Hawks led by just one point at the final change before rallying to pile on 4.5 to the Tigers’ 0.2 in the last, completely overrunning the visitors.

Taylor Joyce kicked six goals for Monbulk. Wandin stamped its authority by thrashing Olinda Ferny Creek in the second grand final rematch.

The Bulldogs were surgical in shredding the Bloods’ defence, with a six-to-one goal second quarter proving as a big difference maker. Aaron Mullett managed a bag of six majors to aid Wandin in securing the 18.12 (120) to 8.11 (59) result.

ROC celebrates milestones

By Justin Schwarze

A milestone day was celebrated in style as ROC kept itself in the finals hunt with a strong win over Healesville in round 11 of Outer East Premier Division A Grade.

Jade McGuire (100 games), Isabella O’Shanassy (100 games) and Caitlin Bell (50 games) all brought up milestones as the Roos took the court.

And ROC used the pregame hype to take a slender lead into quarter time, outscoring the Bloods 15-13.

The second was owned by the Roos on their home deck, netting 16 goals to Healesville’s 10 to push out to a 31-23 half-time buffer.

Another positive output in the third saw the hosts again win the term and extend the margin, rolling into the fourth with a 42-30 lead.

The momentum was too much for the Bloods as ROC steamrolled them 15-5 in the last to storm home to a 57-35 triumph.

Laila Robbins, Emily Kerr and Madison Schlegel were the best on court for the victorious Roos. O’Shanassy put in 46 goals in her 100th game, pushing her over 400 for the season as she sits third in the league goal-shooting.

Warburton Millgrove flexed its muscles and put away a valiant Gembrook Cockatoo on the road 57-34.

The Brookers were solid going forward in the opening stanza but conceded 17 to fall into a 1711 quarter-time hole.

It was all Burras in the second as they outscored the hosts 16-7 to open up a commanding 33-18 advantage at the main break.

From there, the visitors cruised to the victory despite the best efforts of Anaya O’Neil, Carla Crowley and Brylee O’Neil.

Mount Evelyn secured its 11th win on the trot by disposing of Woori Yallock 71-40.

The clinical Rovers posted two quarters of 20plus goals, showing their lethality at the top of the ladder.

Monbulk showed no mercy and thrashed Upwey Tecoma 80-17 at home.

Peri Reid shot 62 goals and stayed in touch of the league goal-shooting title, trailing Mount Evelyn’s Rory Barr by 22.

Wandin’s high-powered attack saw the Bulldogs charge past Olinda Ferny Creek 66-48 at home.

After leading narrowly by three at the first change, Wandin blitzed the Bloods 20-8 in the

PREMIER

A GRADE

Wandin 66 def Olinda Ferny Creek 48, Gembrook Cockatoo 34 def by Warburton Millgrove 54, Monbulk 80 def Upwey Tecoma 17, ROC 57 def Healesville 35, Woori Yallock 40 def by Mt Evelyn 71.

B GRADE

Wandin 49 def Olinda Ferny Creek 27, Gembrook Cockatoo 55 def Warburton Millgrove 33, Monbulk 80 def Upwey Tecoma 24, ROC 73 def Healesville 21, Woori Yallock 53 def by Mt Evelyn 54.

C GRADE

Wandin 62 def Olinda Ferny Creek 12, Gembrook Cockatoo 27 def by Warburton Millgrove 43, ROC 57 def Healesville 14, Woori Yallock 30 def by Mt Evelyn 44. Bye: Monbulk.

D GRADE

Wandin 34 def Olinda Ferny Creek 25, Gembrook Cockatoo 15 def by Warburton Millgrove 19, ROC 36 def Healesville 9, Woori Yallock 33 def Mt Evelyn 26. Bye: Monbulk. 17 UNDER Wandin 54 def Olinda Ferny Creek 12, Gembrook Cockatoo 13 def by Warburton Millgrove 38, ROC White 29 def Monbulk Gold 17, ROC Blue 57 def Monbulk Maroon 22, Woori Yallock 30 def by Mt Evelyn 51. 15 UNDER Pakenham Gold 18 def by Wandin

second and never looked back from there.

In Division 1, Emerald got back to winning ways with a trouncing of Alexandra at Pepi’s Land.

The Bombers started their attack early, piling on 16 first-quarter goals to the Rebels’ four before heading into halftime with a 33-14 lead.

Emerald then mauled the visitors in the third, outscoring Alexandra 21-3 to roll into a massive 72-24 victory.

Alexis Gibson, Brodie Smith and Mackenzie Fox were the main contributors in the dominant result for the Bombers.

Yarra Junction was clinical as the Eagles prevailed over Belgrave 57-44.

Yarra Junction took advantage of its home court and won every quarter to pick up win number six for the year and sit fifth on the table.

Seville extended its winning streak to doubledigits with a 58-37 win over Yarra Glen.

The Blues built up a nine-goal advantage in the first half before outscoring the Rivers Pigs 3018 across the final two quarters.

Yea was too good for Powelltown, winning 5744 in a victory that was fuelled by a first-quarter massacre.

The Tigers smashed the Towners 22-7 in the opening term and rode it to secure the four points.

Pakenham had the bye.

Scores tied up for Pumas

A1

A determined Pakenham Pumas A1 outfit came away with a hard-earned 4-4 draw against Dingley after a gripping extra-innings contest on Saturday. The Pumas opened the scoring in the first inning before the home side levelled the scores after capitalising on a fielding error. Pakenham regained control in the third inning when an opposition error brought home a run before Hiroke blasted a two-run home run to left field, giving the visitors a handy 4-1 advantage. The Pumas looked set to secure another important victory behind a strong all-round performance, but Dingley fought back late, with a three-run home run in the bottom of the eighth inning tying the game and ensuring the points were shared. Aoi was outstanding on the mound for Pakenham, pitching all eight innings while allowing six hits and four runs, striking out five and walking three. Hiroke starred with the bat, finishing 2-for-4 with a home run and two RBIs. Taiga also collected two hits, while Yoshi created havoc on the base paths with two stolen bases as the Pumas finished the game with four steals. Pakenham also impressed in the field, turning a timely double play in a quality contest that showcased strong defence and resilience from both sides.

A2

Pakenham Pumas A2 endured a tough afternoon on Saturday, falling 16-0 to a strong Dingley side after a decisive 10-run fourth inning put the game out of reach. The home side made a fast start, scoring three runs in the opening inning before adding another three in the second to build early momentum. While the Pumas worked hard to stay in the contest, Dingley continued to capitalise on its opportunities at the plate. The game turned dramatically in the fourth inning when Dingley piled on 10 runs, combining timely hitting with disciplined batting to break the match wide open. Joel Anson started on the mound for Pakenham, battling through three innings and strikingouttwohitters.Despitethedifficultresult, the Pumas continued to compete throughout the game. Deklan White and Will each recorded a hit for Pakenham, accounting for the side’s offensive output on the day. Dingley finished with 12 hits and also applied pressure on the bases, making the most of scoring opportunities to secure the comprehensive victory. The Pumas will be looking to put the result behind them as they prepare for another opportunity to return to the winners’ list next weekend.

C1

After last week’s impressive come from behind tie the C1 Pumas were looking to build some momentum as they faced Moorabbin Panthers at home. On the mound Jamie got things started for the Pumas working round a two-out single to strikeout the opposition and keep things scoreless. Unfortunately Moorabbins’s pitching was justasstrongastheykeptPakenhamfromgaining a base runner. In the second it was a similar story with a strikeout to lead off before Jude O’Halloran caught a line drive at Shortstop and fired over to Gregg Clutterbuck at First Base for a double play to keep the game scoreless. The Pumas were also unable to score in the second before it all fell

apart in the third. A few errors in the field and some strong hitting from the away side saw them hit out to a seven run lead and leave Pakenham really needing to step up to get something out of the game. Unfortunately it wasn’t going to be our day despite Jamie coming back out for the fourth and picking up a couple more strikeouts while allowing just the one run. Over six innings we managed just the one hit and struck out 11 times as we faced some really tough pitching. While the result wasn’t great we did well in the field for the first two innings. Unfortunately we let one bad inning get the best of us and never really recovered. This week we travel down to face top of the table Boneo where we will look to stamp out some of those errors and take a more positive approach with the bat. After giving Boneo a scare last time we faced them, it’s a great opportunity to put this game behind us and get back to playing our best baseball.

C2

Pakenham Pumas C2 were unable to match a red-hot Frankston outfit on Saturday, going down 16-1 despite showing plenty of determination throughout the contest. Frankston came out firing in the opening inning, stringing together a series of well-hit balls to establish an early lead. They continued to apply pressure throughout the afternoon, capitalising on their opportunities and taking advantage of a handful of Pakenham errors to extend the margin. The visitors put the game beyond reach with a big sixth inning, adding six more runs on the back of another impressive hitting display. Justin Mazurek started on

the mound for the Pumas, battling through four innings while striking out two batters. Despite the challenging day, Pakenham’s defence produced two sharp double plays that highlighted the team’s determination and defensive ability. Offensively, the Pumas collected five hits, with Andrew Mayberry, Wayne Porter, Travis Hough, Kevin D’Arcy and James all contributing with a hit apiece. Frankston’s batting line-up proved difficult to contain, finishing the game with 31 hits as they completed a comprehensive victory. While the scoreboard didn’t fall Pakenham’s way, the Pumas will look to regroup and bounce back when they take the field next weekend.

D

Pakenham Pumas showed plenty of determination despite going down 16-10 to Frankston at a cold and foggy home ground on Saturday, producing an encouraging offensive display that featured nine hits, 11 walks and six stolen bases. Harris started on the mound for Pakenham, with Taig-Roberts, Tangles and Papazzo to follow as the Pumas continued to change the pace. After Frankston raced to an early lead with four firstinning runs before adding seven more in the second, the Pumas refused to go away. Their patient approach at the plate was a highlight, drawing 11 walks to keep the pressure on throughout the contest. Blackler and Sculley each earned three free passes, while Tangles and Blackler were aggressive on the bases, each stealing multiple bags as Pakenham finished with six stolen bases for the game. The Pumas were also flawless in the field, not committing a single error. Harris was heavily

involved defensively, recording four chances in a polished team fielding performance. An amazing double play by Taig-Roberts and Harris builds a fire in the Pumas to continue the fight. Although Frankston’s 13-hit attack proved decisive, Pakenham’s persistence with the bat ensured the visitors were made to work for the victory. The Pumas finished with nine hits and continued to battle until the final out in an entertaining, highscoring affair. Pakenham will look to build on the positives when they travel to face Mornington next Saturday.

WOMENS BLACK

A thrilling, high-scoring contest saw the Pakenham Pumas Women’s Black battle to a 12-12 draw with Berwick at KH Wearne Reserve on Sunday. The visitors made an explosive start, scoring four runs in the opening inning through a combination of timely hitting, patient batting and a Pumas fielding error to take an early lead. Pakenham responded immediately with a five-run first inning to swing the momentum. Olivia delivered the key hit of the rally with an RBI single as the Pumas capitalised on their opportunities to edge ahead 5-4. Berwick regained the advantage in the second before adding another five runs in the third inning, using a mix of doubles, singles and disciplined at-bats to build what looked to be a handy lead. Refusing to give in, the Pumas produced their best offensive inning of the day in the bottom of the third. Christine sparked the comeback with an RBI double before ManmeetKaur, Friendship player Storm, Holly, Ally, Amelia and Olivia all drove in runs as Pakenham piled on seven runs to reclaim the lead in dramatic fashion. The visitors had one final answer, drawing a bases-loaded walk in the fourth inning to level the scores at 12-all, with neither side able to break the deadlock. Pakenham collected nine hits for the game, with Holly and Olivia leading the way with two hits apiece. Christine drove in two runs, while the Pumas were relentless on the bases, stealing nine bases. Holly, Olivia, Christine and Jessica all swiped multiple bags as the home side consistently pressured the Berwick defence. Olivia started on the mound for the Pumas, striking out four batters across three innings. Berwick also finished with nine hits and combined them with aggressive base-running, collecting 13 stolen bases and drawing 10 walks in an entertaining contest that had momentum swinging both ways from the opening inning until the final out.

U13

Pakenham Pumas put in a determined effort on Saturday, going down 14–4 to Cheltenham Blue. Pakenham made a great start in the field, with Marshall taking an unassisted fly catch for the first out of the game to get the team off to a strong defensive start. He also made an impact with the bat, driving a hit into right field to bring two runners home. Marshall, Phoenix and Clark were on the mound, throwing 40 strikes between them. Despite the result, the team continued to compete until the final out, showing resilience and plenty of encouraging moments throughout the game. Every week this group continues to learn, improve and support one another.

- Jessica Moulding

Fruitful fortnight of flying as Wetering takes first prize

It’s been a highly successful fortnight for Dave Wetering who made a clean sweep of races two and three of the Greater Melbourne Pigeon Federation racing season.

Both races began from Ravenswood, on Sunday 21 and Saturday 27 June, with Wetering making his mark after finishing 19th in race one on June 14.

In race two, Wetering’s birds flew the 149,913 distance in 1:59.38, with a velocity of 1253.10, while conditions allowed a much faster 1:47.10 finish in race three at a velocity of 1398.88.

Three flyers from club Dandenong; Wetering, R Churchill and the Ketteringham Family filled the placings in race two, while K Bush from Springvale joined Wetering and Churchill on the dais in race three.

After the opening three races from Ravenswood, attention now turns to Wycheproof where races four, five and six will begin on Saturdays 4, 11 and 18 July.

RAVENSWOOD - JUNE 21

Name Distance Fly Time Velocity

Wetering D. 149,913 1:59:38 1253.10

Churchill R 157,789

Crucial wins for Warriors

By Justin Schwarze

A split weekend in round 12 of the Big V Championship for the Pakenham Warriors Men saw the highest of highs and the lowest of lows as the finals race heats up.

The double-header fixture started perfectly with a massive 98-92 upset victory over firstplaced Hume City at Cardinia Life on Saturday, handing the Broncos just their second loss of the season.

And it was a deep effort that got the Warriors across the line, with seven players scoring eight points or more.

Pakenham operated well offensively and routinely generated good looks, shooting 49 percent from the field and a scorching 48 percent from downtown.

Jamie Blanchard was the main culprit as he went 5/6 from deep on his way to 16 points and six assists while Ryan Batte starred with 23 points and seven steals.

The Warriors also got strong contributions from Nae Hightower (15 points, seven rebounds, six assists), Atien Acuel (13 points, eight rebounds), Jackson Dean (13 points) and Harry Love (10 points, nine rebounds).

There was a strong gameplan on Hume City’s star import Robbie Heath, who was held to 6/21 shooting and a minus-15 for the game.

But Pakenham cooled off on Sunday and shot poorly from three in a defeat at the hands of Melbourne University 95-85 on the road.

The Black Angels outscored the Warriors in the first three quarters, building up a double-digit lead they never relinquished.

Pakenham showed plenty of fight on a night where the team shot 5/19 from deep, getting within four points in the final term before dagger threes from Joel Rimes and Aaron Dolny sunk the visitors.

Batte gave his best efforts in the loss, posting 32 points and seven rebounds on 11/19 shooting, while Hightower was productive with 19 points and nine boards.

Pakenham remains fourth with a record of 8-6 but is just one game ahead of falling out of the finals picture.

In round 13, the Warriors host bottom-placed Wyndham on Saturday night.

The Warriors Women posted an important 7467 triumph at home over Hume City.

Pakenham outscored the Broncos by five in both the first and second quarters to lead by 10 at halftime, before extending the margin to as big as 14 in the third.

The Warriors let the foot off the gas late in the fourth but had a comfortable-enough cushion to secure the win.

Stella O’Loughlin was sensational with a monster double-double of 21 points, 17 rebounds, five assists and three steals on efficient 10/17 shooting.

Bridget Mullings added 13 points, Tazsa Garrett-Hammett scored 11 and Clare Camac chipped in 10.

Pakenham sits fourth at 10-4 with a home double-header awaiting in round 13.

The Warriors roll out the welcome mat for winless Warrnambool on Saturday before hosting seventh-placed Sunbury on Sunday.

Huge achievement as Cavs Girls qualify for Club Champs

By Justin Schwarze

Excitement is building at Casey Stadium as the Casey Cavaliers under-14 girls recently qualified for the National Club Championships in Perth.

The Cavaliers qualified in emphatic fashion, heading to Bendigo and clinching their spot on top of the Watson qualification pool with a dominant victory.

Head coach Brayden Van Loo was thrilled for his team’s achievement.

“It’s an amazing effort,” he said.

“These girls are all so talented, and for some of them it could potentially be one of their biggest career highlights, so to get an opportunity to play on a national stage against the best under-14s girls in Australia is such an amazing effort.

“They deserve it for all their hard work and it’s a reward for all the hard work in the preseason and all those wins are all on them.

“I think they’ve gelled so well.

“Together they can do a lot things as a group,

there’s not one individual that has to win every game for us.

“There’s so many different players that can stand up each and every game within this team.

“Our team one through 10 are all amazing players and can all step up at any moment and help the team win.”

It’s been a season of highlights for the formidable side, who also finished runners up at the National Junior Classic in early June.

As for the goals for the team when they head to Perth, Van Loo highlighted one area.

“It’s about showcasing the Casey athletes on the national stage,” he said.

“It’s showing how good these girls are performing at the highest level of basketball at 12 and 13 years of age and it’s such an impressive thing.”

The tournament will take place in Western Australia from September 27 to October 2.

To support the trip, head to Casey Basketball’s Facebook page and donate under the link provided.

Warriors stun Rangers in intense contest at Dandenong

By Justin Schwarze

Pakenham prevailed in an instant classic against Dandenong on the road in round 14 of the Big V Youth Championship.

In a tightly-contested game at Dandenong Basketball Stadium, the first half was highlighted by swings and runs with neither team being able to hold onto their advantages.

Austin Kirikiri got to the rim and finished to put the Rangers in front 46-38 at halftime, before the hosts stretched their buffer to double-digits early in the third term.

But the Warriors answered the call, coming back in a flurry to take the lead 64-62 entering the fourth.

The fourth was back-and-forth with both teams trading baskets, until Noah Suarjaya scored

twice at the rim to give Dandenong a three-point lead with 30 seconds remaining.

Mason Fraser missed a potentially game-tying three, before Mitch Zeunert came up huge and forced a turnover on Kirikiri.

Cooper Lanting missed another three, but Zeunert again was pivotal by grabbing the offensive rebound and kicking out to Aaron Small, who was fouled attempting a three.

Small knocked down all three free throws to tie things up and Suarjaya’s game-winning triple attempt was off the mark.

The overtime period was yet again extremely tight with the biggest leader for either side being Dandenong by just four.

Zeunert threw down a flush to tie the game with under a minute to go, before Fraser fouled Kirikiri and the superstar cashed in on both free

throws.

Pakenham had six seconds to work with following a timeout and Fraser made one of the plays of the season, drilling a triple to win it for the Warriors off a brilliant feed from Small.

Pakenham was victorious 104-103 after an extra five minutes, with Zeunert anchoring the result as he posted 26 points, 12 rebounds, four assists, two blocks and two steals on 12/25 shooting.

Fraser and Jarred Small each poured in 21 points, while Aaron Small had a double-double of 15 points, 15 rebounds and seven assists.

Kirikiri recorded 24 points and five assists for Dandenong, supported well by Suarjaya’s 20 points and six dimes on 50 percent shooting.

On Sunday, Pakeham was outclassed by Melbourne 91-83 at Cardinia Life.

The Tigers won the first three quarters to lead by double-digits entering the last, holding on for the victory.

Aaron Small led the way despite defeat with 20 points, five boards and six dimes.

Solid performances from Chelsea Schreuder and Lillian Trimble wasn’t enough for the Youth Women to overcome Melbourne.

The Warriors struggled mightily offensively, shooting below 27 percent from the field as a team and turning the ball over 18 times to lose 72-53.

Schreuder provided 20 points and seven rebounds, while Trimble starred off the bench with 13 points and five boards on 6/10 shooting.

How to

LIFESTYLE COMMUNITIES® PRESENTS Finance edition

Featuring Rachel Lane

Downsizing & Retirement Finance Expert

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Free event Bookings essential

Saturday 18 July, 10am to 12:30pm

Thinking about downsizing but unsure what it means for your finances?

Join leading downsizing and retirement expert Rachel Lane for an informative, practical session designed to help you understand your options and make confident decisions about your next move.

What to expect:

✓ A clear, easy-to-understand overview of downsizing from a financial perspective

✓ Practical insights to help you make the most of your next move

✓ A live Q&A with Rachel Lane to answer your questions

✓ A personalised insights report tailored to your circumstances.