News - Berwick Star News - 9th July 2026

Eyes of the Storm

Taliyah and Emily carried mask mementos of their favourite rugby-league players as they joined in the action at Melbourne Storm’s training session at Casey Fields on Tuesday 7 July.

Fans met players and scored autographs as well as face painting, mini golf, inflatable Catch N Save games and NRL Vic Skills activities.

More photos, turn to page 6

Murder charges

By Jensy Callimootoo

Two brothers have had their charges upgraded to murder over the death of a 63-year-old Clyde North man in Narre Warren South.

The pair had their cases adjourned after appearing separately via video link at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday 8 July.

Connor Harnett, 21, of Frankston, and Liam Harnett, 22, of Narre Warren South remain in custody, both accused of one count of murdering Andre Szep, who died in hospital on 18 June after allegedly being assaulted at Strathaird Reserve, Narre Warren South on 12 June.

Up to eight charges including recklessly causing serious injury, intentionally causing injury,

assault-related offences, possessing a dangerous article and affray were formally withdrawn at the hearing. Police have alleged those involved were known to one another.

During the hearing, the prosecution sought 12 weeks to serve the evidence, telling the court investigators were still gathering key information about the incident including post-mortem findings and completing forensic examinations.

Directions were made requiring police to complete the collection and disclosure of CCTV, body-worn camera footage, DNA material and other forensic evidence by the end of September.

The matter will return to court on 11 November 2026 for a further filing hearing.

Petersen to run for Libs

By Jensy Callimootoo

Norliah Syer-Petersen, mother of Levi Syer who tragically passed away after an illness from Meningococcal B last year has announced her candidacy for the 2026 state election.

The Victorian Liberal party has selected Petersen to run for Narre Warren South. A seat currently held by Labor MP Gary Maas who announced his resignation earlier in May.

Maas has represented the region for the last two elections. Labor has not yet announced another candidate for the electorate Petersen is a music teacher, small business owner and public health advocate and has lived in Narre Warren for 20 years.

Since losing her 16-year old son in September 2025, she has become a stern and vocal defender for free access to the Meningococcal B vaccine.

She previously introduced a petition to the Australian Parliament as well as initiating conversations with politicians, healthcare professionals and the wider community.

In May of this year, the Victorian Government announced it would be making the strain

of vaccine free for year 10 students starting from January 2027.

While the vaccine has been available at no charge for some vulnerable groups, for others it can cost over $250 out of pocket.

“I never thought that I would put my hand up to represent our community until the loss of my 16 year-old son, Levi, but I realised the power of change,” Petersen said in a media release.

Following the announced funding, she was praised by RACGP Victoria Chair Dr Anita Muñoz who noted Petersen’s impact in the state-wide change.

“But no one has been more instrumental in making this change than Norliah Syer-Petersen, who has campaigned for this since her 16-yearold son, Levi Syer, died due to a meningococcal B infection last September,” said Muñoz.

In addition to her advocacy in fortifying the healthcare system, her broader election promises involve safety and affordability with a focus on lowering taxes and giving more opportunities to local businesses to grow.

As a current owner of a musical school, Petersen says she understands the pressure mounting on local families and small businesses.

Djarlo dance moves hit a high note

Police say no one was

from the incident.

Shisha bar targeted in drive-by shooting

A Narre Warren Shisha Bar has been targeted in a late night drive by shooting while customers were inside the business.

Police were called to the scene after a number of shots were fired from a dark coloured vehicle into the Webb Street business at about 10:20pm on Monday 6 July.

Police say no one inside the business at the time was injured.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestoppersvic.com.au.

collision in Hallam

Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal collision in Hallam on the afternoon of Tuesday 7 July.

Emergency services were called to the Princes Highway about 4.40pm after reports of a collision between a car and motorcycle.

A male motorcycle rider was treated at the scene but could not be revived.

The driver of the car involved stayed at the scene and has spoken with police.

Anyone who witness the incident or anyone with footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit crimestoppersvic.com.au.

Long wait for libraries

By Violet Li

Casey’s fastest-growing suburbs remain without clear timelines for full-sized library services.

Connected Libraries’ Facilities Development Plan 2023-27 states there are “no concrete timeframes” for new libraries in several growing suburbs, warning this will have a growing impact on equitable access to library services across Casey.

Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen said the new Clyde Township Library Lounge, opened at the Clyde Township Community Centre, is an interim response while funding is sought for a permanent full-sized library in Clyde.

The lounge is about 100 square metres, with more than 4200 items available for loan. Clyde itself has more than 16,000 residents, according to Connected Libraries’ planning documents.

Cr Koomen said Casey’s population growth was placing increasing demand on community infrastructure, including libraries.

“The pace and scale of population growth in the City of Casey places increasing demand

on our community infrastructure, including library services,” he said.

“Meeting this demand will require investment in new facilities in our growth areas, optimising how we use existing buildings and continually evolving how we deliver our services.”

He said there were “significant challenges” to building additional public libraries, which would require combined investment from Council and other levels of government.

“Potential funding streams, including the Growing Suburbs and Living Libraries Funds, are currently inadequate to cover the substantial cost of building new branch libraries,” he said.

“We know library services are needed in our growth areas, particularly Clyde and Clyde North and in Casey’s southern region, and we continue to work to secure the necessary funding.”

Council advised that it had advocated for increased library funding directly to the Minister for Planning through pre-budget submissions and its Building a Better Casey

campaign.

It is also seeking funding for a community hub at Alexander Boulevard in Clyde North, which would include a library service.

Council noted that the new Cranbourne Hub, currently in the design stage, would include a multi-level library.

A State Government spokesperson said the government would “always back the free services Victorians rely on”, including libraries.

“That’s why we have invested more than $567 million to build new libraries, upgrade existing ones and make sure our growing communities have access to the free resources they need,” they said.

The State Government said its Living Libraries Infrastructure Program had a new grant round open until 17 July, but the City of Casey had “not yet expressed interest in applying”.

The spokesperson said Casey had received more than $15 million through state library funding programs since 2019, with councils responsible for determining how funding was distributed across their libraries.

Cranbourne gold rush as two share in total of $3.4 million

By Violet Li

Cranbourne has had a golden run of luck, with two local women claiming more than $3.4 million in majorlotteryprizesinlessthanaweek.

ThelatestwindfallcameafteraCranbournewoman made a spur-of-the-moment change to her usual TattsLotto routine, swapping her regular numbers for aSystem8QuickPick.

The decision delivered a division one prize worth $1,286,812.87 in TattsLotto draw 4691 on Saturday 4 July.

ThewinningnumbersinTattsLottodraw4691on4 July2026were32,8,43,4,44and15,whilethesupple-

mentarynumberswere22and23.

The local was one of five division one winners nationally and was completely unaware of her good fortuneuntillotteryofficialscalledtobreakthenews.

“OhmyGod!Ohmygoodness!”shesaid.

She said her hands were shaking as she tried to processthelife-changingcall.

“I never win! I might win $10 or $15, but this is unbelievable.”shesaid.

Despite the shock of the win, the Cranbourne localknewexactlywheresomeofhernewfoundfortune wouldbespent.

“I’ve got lots of things to do around the house. It’s gettingoldandthingsarefallingdown,”shesaid.

“We’ve been putting off home renovations for a while.

“The first big one is the roof. The tiles need fixing and the gutters are no good. This should definitely coverthat!”

Her winning System 8 QuickPick entry was purchased at Cranbourne Park Lotto in the Cranbourne ParkShoppingCentre.

The joy came just days after another Cranbourne woman received her own life-changing phone call, thistimefora$2,200,017prizeinLuckyLotteriesMega Jackpotdraw1786,drawnonThursday2July.

The local resident scored the Jackpot Prize with an entry of two random numbers purchased through

TheLottwebsite.

The winning call turned a chilly winter day into a momentshewouldneverforget.

“Wow. That’s amazing. Thank you!” she said after beingtoldofthemulti-million-dollarwin.

“Gosh, I don’t know what to say. I’m speechless. I have the day off today, so I’ll be able to kick back and letthisallsinkin.

“Ican’twaittotellmypartner.Howamazing.This means we’ll be able to buy a house. It’s been on our mindforawhile.

“We might have to go out for dinner to celebrate. I’d also love to do a holiday. Definitely somewhere warm.”

Stronger, broader labour hire laws apply from 1 June

The laws apply to all labour hire providers, including most and providers of meat processing and horticulture workers.

Labour hire businesses must meet new licence requirements:

• Tighter criteria apply to business operators and their criminal, compliance and professional histories.

• Businesses must comply with a wider range of relevant laws –including fair trading and corporate regulation laws.

• capacity to comply with their legal and licence obligations.

• Licences granted after 1 June 2026 in high-risk industries include new standard transparency and integrity conditions.

Under Victorian law, labour hire providers must be licensed, and hosts must only use licensed providers, to protect workers and improve the integrity and transparency of the industry.

Information session for labour hire providers

The Labour Hire Authority (LHA) is holding information sessions around Victoria and online to support labour hire businesses to comply with the new laws.

Register now:

Session details:

Thursday, 16 July 2026

01:00 PM - 02:00 PM Bunjil Place

Anti-racism motion support

By Violet Li and Sahar Foladi

Casey Council has backed a national push for stronger action against antisemitism, racism and religious intolerance.

Casey voted in favour of a strategic motion at the recent Australian Local Government Association (ALGA)’s National General Assembly (NGA), calling on the Federal Government to lead and fund a nationally coordinated framework to combat antisemitism and all forms of racism, hatred and bigotry.

The vote on the motion was close.

The motion called for education and partnerships to strengthen social cohesion, in partnership with local government, recognising councils’ role in fostering safe, inclusive and connected communities.

“We voted in favour of the motion as social cohesion is a priority for Casey and because racism and all forms of prejudice and discrimination have no place in our community,” Casey Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen said.

“The City of Casey is one of the most diverse municipalities in Victoria and is home to people from more than 150 cultural backgrounds — it’s this diversity that is one of our greatest strengths.

“While discrimination can affect different communities in different ways, our position is simple — everyone should feel safe, respected and welcome, regardless of their faith, culture, background or identity.”

Mayor Cr Koomen said Casey was generally a cohesive and respectful community, but Council had heard concerns from residents and community groups about incidents targeting people because of their religion, culture or identity.

“As Mayor, I am committed to strengthening social cohesion and supporting initiatives that bring people together, build understanding and promote respect across our community,” he said.

However, the motion also sparked debate among some councils over whether the Federal Government should create a new framework or instead implement the existing National An-

ti-Racism Framework.

Greater Dandenong Cr Rhonda Garad said most councillors supported the intent of addressing antisemitism and other forms of racism, but not the creation of a new national framework.

“Australia doesn’t need a separate framework for every form of racism,” she said.

“The National Anti-Racism Framework already promotes education, prevention and accountability for all communities.

“We need effective implementation to address antisemitism, not duplication.”

Cr Garad said the existing framework had been developed over five years through extensive consultation and should be fully implemented rather than replaced.

She said some councils had tried to amend the motion from the floor but were refused.

“Many left feeling they had been misled and were understandably upset,” she said.

“Most of us were under the assumption that the motion would operate within the existing framework, not replace it with a new one.”

Melbourne City Cr Olivia Ball also raised concerns that starting again with a new frame-

work could delay action.

“The problem is very urgent,” she said.

“We have the framework ready to go, to say forget that, let’s start again, it’s crazy and very concerning.

“It can only mean delay.”

ALGA has advised that motion outcomes from the NGA are not yet being publicly released, as they must first go before the ALGA Board for endorsement at the end of July.

Once endorsed, the motions are expected to be sent to relevant Federal Ministers and published by ALGA.

Planning for Growth, Together.

Casey homes hold up

By Violet Li

Casey home values have held up better than Melbourne overall in the first half of 2026, with affordability helping shield the outer-suburban market from the broader downturn.

Cotality data to the end of June shows Melbourne dwelling values were down 3.6 per cent year-to-date, while many Casey-related postcodes recorded only small falls or modest growth.

How did your postcode perform?

The strongest local result was in postcode 3980, covering areas including Blind Bight, Tooradin and Warneet, where home values rose 0.5 per cent year-to-date.

Hampton Park’s 3976 postcode was also in positive territory, up 0.2 per cent.

The Cranbourne-area 3977 postcode was almost flat, down just 0.1 per cent, while Clyde and Clyde North’s 3978 postcode was down 0.3 per cent.

Berwick and Harkaway’s 3806 postcode fell 0.2 per cent, Narre Warren and Narre Warren South’s 3805 postcode was down 0.3 per cent, and Endeavour Hills’ 3802 postcode was down 0.5 per cent.

The clearest local outlier was Lysterfield South’s 3156 postcode, which was down 6 per cent year-to-date.

Why Casey is holding up better?

Cotality Head of Research for Australia Gerard Burg said Casey’s relative strength reflected a broader affordability story across Melbourne.

“I think it really speaks to a broader story about affordability,” he said.

Mr Burg said Melbourne’s housing market was not moving as one single market, with cheaper and more expensive areas performing differently.

He said Cotality’s recent data showed the top 25 per cent of properties across Melbourne had declined by 4 per cent over the past three months, while the middle 50 per cent fell 1.9 per cent and the bottom 25 per cent fell just 0.3 per cent.

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“It very much comes down to these different markets that are performing quite separately depending on location and value,” he said.

“Casey, given its location, has been performing a little bit stronger because it’s more out on the urban fringes.

“We’re seeing similar trends across a range of the fringe markets around the city.”

What happens next?

Mr Burg said the broader housing market was still under pressure from affordability challenges, interest rate rises, higher petrol prices linked to international conflict, and recent budget changes.

“All these have stacked with each other,” he said.

“They’re all pulling in the same direction, and that’s led the market lower.”

Extra police patrols

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 weapons-related 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.

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Casey fans ‘Storm’ fields

Melbourne Storm fans in the City of Casey connected with the team on a local training day being held at Casey Fields on Tuesday 7 July. Fans talked to players and got autographs after their training session on the Casey Warriors field. City of Casey Mayor, Cr Stefan Koomen said it was a great opportunity for fans to see their team in action and enjoy a fun day out at Casey Fields.

The last bastion of human connection in a digital age

Opinion

by Dr Dalal Smiley, chief executive of Wellsprings for Women

I am prompted to write this piece following my own experience recently as CEO at Wellsprings for Women in trying to connect with a government department.

Not long ago, we used to be able to call people relevant to our funded programs either by phone or direct email.

But these connections are increasingly disappearing.

Email and telephone contacts provided are generic rather than personal, and one would be quite lucky to even receive a response to an email inquiry.

We are living through a profound social experiment.

As governments, banks, retailers, health providers and essential services move increasingly online, face-to-face interaction is quietly disappearing from everyday life.

What is often presented as efficiency, convenience and cost-saving has a hidden social cost: the erosion of human connection.

For many people, particularly older adults, people living alone, carers, newly arrived migrants, unemployed people and those experiencing disadvantage, human interactions were never merely transactional. Speaking to a receptionist, chatting with a librarian, visiting a bank

branch or attending a community program created opportunities for meaningful human contact.

As these interactions are replaced by apps, chatbots, self-service portals and automated phone systems, many people are finding themselves increasingly disconnected from their communities.

Recent research suggests this is not simply a matter of nostalgia.

Social connection is a critical determinant of mental health and wellbeing.

The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare identifies loneliness and social isolation as significant public health concerns linked to depression, psychological distress, poorer health outcomes, dementia risk and reduced wellbeing.

The AIHW notes that more frequent social contact is associated with better overall health and wellbeing.

Similarly, the 2023 report Social Connection inAustraliabyEndingLonelinessTogetherfound that nearly one in three Australians experiences loneliness, with stigma and social disconnection preventing many people from seeking support.

The implications are significant.

As society becomes increasingly digitised, we risk creating communities that are more connected technically but less connected socially.

At a time when many traditional community gathering places have disappeared, Victoria’s neighbourhood houses stand out as one of the

few remaining pieces of social infrastructure deliberately designed to bring people together.

Neighbourhood Houses Victoria represents almost 400 community-based neighbourhood houses and community centres across the state.

These organisations provide welcoming, accessible and inclusive spaces where people can connect, learn, volunteer, seek support and participate in community life.

Theyexplicitlyworktocombatsocialisolation and loneliness by providing safe, non-threatening environments that welcome people from all walks of life.

Unlike many services that increasingly direct people online, neighbourhood houses remain fundamentally human.

They offer a friendly conversation, a shared activity, a community meal, a learning opportunity or simply a place where somebody knows your name.

These seemingly small interactions are often the building blocks of belonging.

In Greater Dandenong, for example, we have seven neighbourhood houses, which have over time become the frontline support system for people seeking to connect and belong.

They help residents to access online government services, apply for support programs, connect with services, access food relief and material aid, volunteer, and participate in a range of educational and recreational activities.

They are filling gaps left by the withdrawal of

face-to-face services.

They are the traditional informal drop-in spaces that have perfected the art of welcoming “strangers”

You don’t need an appointment, nor do you have to meet an eligibility criteria.

You just need to be human. You can drop in to chill out and have a cuppa and chat.

Yet despite their growing importance, many neighbourhood houses operate under significant financial pressure.

Neighbourhood Houses Victoria has repeatedly highlighted that current funding levels are insufficient to meet rising demand and escalating operating costs. It is calling for increased investment to maintain and strengthen services.

As more services move online and artificial intelligence becomes increasingly embedded in our daily lives, the value of genuine human connection will only become more important.

Neighbourhood houses are among the last bastions of accessible, face-to-face community life.

They are where strangers become neighbours, where isolation gives way to belonging, and where vulnerable Victorians find the support and connection they need.

In an increasingly digital society, supporting neighbourhood houses is not about resisting the future.

It is about ensuring that the future still has room for humanity.

Tunnel shuts

Thousands of commuters across Casey and Melbourne’s south-east are being urged to allow extra travel time this week, with major disruptions set to affect Cranbourne and Pakenham train services for five days.

From 8.30pm on Tuesday 7 July until the last service on Sunday 12 July, trains on both lines will terminate and start at South Yarra as crews carry out around-the-clock works linked to the Metro Tunnel Project.

Passengers travelling to Melbourne’s CBD will need to change at South Yarra onto Frankston or Sandringham line services to continue their journey to Flinders Street and City Loop stations.

The disruptions are expected to affect thousands of residents from Casey suburbs including Cranbourne, Cranbourne East, Cranbourne West, Narre Warren, Berwick and Hallam, many of whom rely on the Cranbourne and Pakenham lines for work and other essential travel.

The temporary timetable forms part of a major construction blitz to remove redundant infrastructure used during the Metro Tunnel Project and install permanent rail access and signalling equipment while trains are not operating through the affected sections.

Passengers are encouraged to check their journey before travelling, allow extra time and familiarise themselves with the temporary service arrangements.

The Metro Tunnel will connect the

Rainbow study

La Trobe University has launched a three-year project, Out In Suburbia, to advance inclusion for outer suburban LGBTQ communities.

With funding from the Australian Research Council, La Trobe’s Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society (ARCSHS) will deliver the project in partnership with Western Sydney University.

Recruitment for the study launched on 2 July and is open now.

The research comes at a critical time for outer suburban LGBTQ communities, which have faced:

· Increasing instances of targeting by anti-LGBTQ movements focused on drag queen story time and other youth events.

· Higher levels of opposition to marriage equality in the Australian Marriage Law Postal Survey.

· Higher levels of psychological distress and lower levels of community connectedness.

The project will interview LGBTQ adults in outer suburban areas to understand their experiences of wellbeing, belonging, and connection, with an aim to create outer suburban environments that are safe and inclusive for all.

This research will be informed by a project advisory committee featuring specialised LGBTQ organisations, including ACON, Thorne Harbour Health, and Equality Tasmania, and mainstream local government peak bodies, including the Municipal Association of Victoria and the Local Government Association of Tasmania.

Each organisation will bring its own expertise and links with the broader community.

ARCSHS Senior Research Fellow and Chief Investigator Dr Ruby Grant said that community organisations and local councils could create powerful change for LGBTQ people through working together.

“Thisresearchwillexploretheuniquestrengths and challenges of LGBTQ communities in outer suburbia and what local councils can do to support their communities,” Dr Grant said.

“This project is founded on a vision for a future where all LGBTQ people can feel welcome, included, and connected, regardless of where they live.”

Jan Farrell, a member of the project advisory committee and co-lead of the Rainbow Local Government campaign, said, “This project is all about supporting local councils to deliver programs and policies that support LGBTQ residents and improve wellbeing and community connection.

“LGBTQ communities across the outer suburbs should always feel equal and included. Whether through infrastructure, community programs, or cultural celebrations, outer suburbs should be places where everyone truly belongs and feels respected and equal.”

LGBTQ adults who lived in the outer suburbs of Sydney, Melbourne, or Hobart can express interest in participating in a confidential interview at redcap.link/outinsuburbia

(On file)

in Melbourne’s north-west with the Cranbourne and Pakenham lines in the south-east via twin nine-kilometre tunnels and five new underground stations once it opens.

Thompsons Road date

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.

Sixteen years of wishes

By Jensy Callimootoo

When Kristy-Lee Bosher first searched online for a local charity to volunteer with after finishing Year 12, she had no idea it would become one of the defining commitments of her life.

Sixteen years later, the Cardinia-Casey MakeA-Wish volunteer is still helping bring joy to children living with critical illnesses, balancing the role alongside a career as a cancer nurse and, more recently, motherhood.

Kristy-Lee joined the charity at 18, determined to give back after years spent focused on study.

While attending university and travelling between Melbourne and her hometown of Korumburra, volunteering with the Cardinia-Casey branch became the perfect way to stay connected to the community where she grew up.

Today she has spent 15 years as the branch’s Wish Granting Coordinator, helping families discover and deliver each child’s most cherished wish.

Across her time with the organisation, KristyLee estimates she has been involved in almost 40 wish journeys.

“There are so many wishes that have touched me over the years,” she said.

One of her earliest memories remains a favourite — surprising a young girl with a cubby house while dressed as Minnie Mouse before pushing her on the swing attached to her new play space.

“There is a photo of me dressed as Minnie whilst pushing her on her new swing part of the cubby house… that always sticks to my mind seeing the joy and smile on her face,” she said.

More recently, she helped grant the wish of a non-verbal boy named Jazper, whose lifelong fascination with trains inspired a dream holiday aboard The Ghan.

To build excitement before the trip, volunteers hosted a special wish presentation at a playground featuring a historic steam train, complete with a train-shaped cake and Jazper’s favourite meal of chicken nuggets.

As volunteers revealed the details of his up-

coming adventure, Jazper quietly leaned over and kissed Kristy-Lee on the cheek – a moment that left everyone in tears. At the time, Kristy-Lee says she was 17 weeks pregnant and had been considering stepping away from volunteering.

“That moment changed my mind,” she said.

“It reminded me of the impact we have as volunteers and that was something I wanted to continue and show my son.”

Now the mother of a two-year-old, Kristy-Lee said becoming a parent had only strengthened her understanding of the families she supports. She believes the magic of a wish extends well

beyond the final experience, with the anticipation, planning and connections formed along the way often leaving the greatest impression.

As Make-A-Wish marks its 40th anniversary, Kristy-Lee hopes more people across Cardinia and Casey will consider volunteering.

“Everyone brings their own rich and diverse experience,” she said.

For her, the organisation has encompassed every aspect of her life.

Beginning at 18 years old, she’s now travelled the world, gotten married, achieved her goal to become a cancer nurse and had a baby.

Amid all those achievements remains her steadfast dedication to Make-A-Wish.

“Everyone who knows me knows that I am involved in Make-A-Wish,” says Kristy-Lee.

“I have never lost sight of the impact of a wish.

“As volunteers we are stepping in as unfamiliar faces to wish children and their families, often at a vulnerable time asking big questions that most adults would find hard to answer… What is your most cherished wish?”

Greater Dandenong and Casey residents can vote for upgrades for their favourite parks.

The two councils have nominated more than a dozen parks in the running for the State Government’s Pick My Park program.

The six nominated park upgrades in Greater Dandenong are at Frederick Wachter Reserve (up to $250,000), Greaves Reserve ($250,000) and its dog park ($96,000), Currajong Reserve ($180,000), Bakers Road Reserve ($150,000) and Rowley Allan Reserve ($250,000).

the Hallam Valley-Great

Wilson Botanic Park

The $30 million State Government-funded program includes 124 projects competing for funding.

projects with the most public votes will receive between $20,000 and $250,000.

Council unveils new strategy for graffiti

The City of Casey is taking a fresh approach to graffiti management, combining rapid removal of illegal tagging with new opportunities for creative expression.

Council has adopted its Graffiti Management Program 2026-30, a four-year strategy aimed at keeping public spaces clean and welcoming while addressing the causes of graffiti vandalism.

The plan continues Council’s focus on quickly removing graffiti from public property, improving enforcement measures and encouraging residents to report incidents when they occur.

However, the strategy also introduces several new initiatives designed to engage the community, particularly young people, through creative programs and education.

Among the proposals being explored is the introduction of legal graffiti walls, providing designated areas where artists can showcase their talents in a positive and constructive way.

The plan also recognises that the way public spaces are designed can influence graffiti activity. Consideration will be given to elements such as building materials, lighting, landscaping and the management of public spaces to help discourage vandalism before it occurs.

City of Casey Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen said the strategy offered a long-term vision for managing graffiti while creating opportunities for community involvement.

“This plan gives us a clear program for dealing with graffiti and also provides an opportunity to work with the community in a creative and positive way,” Cr Koomen said.

He said the strategy aimed to enrich the urban environment, build pride in public spaces and reduce vandalism through proactive measures.

Cr Koomen added that while Council re-

(On file)

mained committed to combating illegal graffiti, it also recognised there was a place for legal street art projects and was investigating how these could be delivered across the municipality.

Residents can report graffiti on Council property through the Snap, Send, Solve app.

The full Graffiti Management Program 202630 is available on the City of Casey’s website.

Dandenong Magistrates’ Court will be supported by a remote custody court. (Gary Sissons: 244718)

Remote custody court for Dandenong

Dandenong has become home to a remote custody court (RCC), in what the State Government says is a sign that “tougher bail laws” are working.

On 3 July, the Government announced an expansion of RCCs to Geelong, Broadmeadows, Ringwood and Dandenong.

The RCCs hear bail applications and guilty plea matters online, allowing the accused parties to appear via video-link from police cells or prison.

Itisexpectedtospeeduphearingsandtofree up physical courtrooms and their backlogs.

An additional Bail and Remand Court (BaRC) has also been established at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court.

The BaRC operates seven days a week until 9pm with increased capacity on Saturdays and public holidays.

Seven additional magistrates were announced late last year and more registry staff for the expanded courts.

Attorney-General Sonya Kilkenny said the Government’s “tougher bail laws are working”

“We’re backing our courts with more resources to make sure offenders are held to account sooner.

“Victoriansexpectcommunitysafetytocome first — that’s exactly what we’re delivering.”

Decades of giving back

By Jensy Callimootoo

A long-running partnership between a Berwick community organisation and a local palliative care provider is continuing to make a meaningful difference for families across Melbourne’s south east.

For more than 30 years, the Berwick Op Shop has backed the work of Palliative Care South East (PCSE), helping the organisation provide care and support to people living with life-limiting illnesses in the comfort of their own homes.

The latest chapter in that relationship was marked recently when Berwick Op Shop Vice President Dianne and committee member Vicki presented another donation to the service, extending a commitment that began in the early 1990s.

Over the past 34 years, funds raised through the volunteer-run op shop have helped strengthen a range of programs delivered by PCSE.

The ongoing support has contributed to staff education and professional development, ensuring care teams continue to build the skills needed to meet the complex needs of patients and their families.

The donations have also helped grow volunteer and carer support programs, allowing more people to receive practical assistance, companionship and emotional support during some of life’s most challenging moments.

While the contribution is measured in dollars, those involved say its greatest impact is seen in the lives of local families who are able to remain together at home during end-of-life care.

The partnership reflects the important role community organisations can play in supporting local health services, with volunteers and shoppers helping to fund programs that might otherwise be difficult to expand.

For PCSE, community backing remains a vital

part of delivering person-centred care that gives people greater choice, dignity and comfort at the end of life.

A spokesperson from PCSE says the shop’s

continued generosity is a reminder that even small, local acts of giving can have a lasting impact.

After more than three decades of support, the

BUSINESS IN FOCUS

partnership continues to ensure compassionate care reaches those who need it most, while reinforcing the strength of a community committed to looking after one another.

ADVERTORIAL

More police the answer

Enough is enough. Here’s the Plan.

Recently, I made multiple social media posts about a teenage boy being bailed out after a firebombing, only to commit another crime, only to be bailed out again.

And honestly, I’m over it.

Every day brings another crime headline.

And it’s not just the news. Out in the community, I hear the stories of assault, car theft and gang fights that don’t make it to the papers.

It feels relentless.

Up in Parliament House, I have said the word ‘crime’ in the chamber 474 times across 96 different speeches and motions.

Don’t get me wrong, it is an honour to be advocating for our community as a member of Parliament, and I am grateful to every single person who shares their story with me.

way forward.

There is a real plan – sensible, clear, and actionable – to start fixing what’s gone wrong.

It starts with 3,000 more police, and 200 additional PSOs who will return to local train stations. Because it’s not rocket science – when there’s less police, crime increases.

It also delivers Break Bail, Face Jail and Adult Time for Adult Crime. It’s time to make things right and put victims ahead of criminals again. And this is just a snapshot. The Liberals and Nationals have 3 more clear steps in their plan to keep Victoria safe.

I encourage you to visit vic.liberal.org.au to read the full policy or contact my office and we will send you a copy.

Because in times like these, a clear plan is a light at the end of the tunnel.

But I am tired of bringing the same issues straight to the Labor Government, only for them to keep turning a blind eye.

So, I want to take this moment to focus on the

Ann-Marie Hermans MP, Liberal State Member for South Eastern Metropolitan Region Shadow Minister for Community Safety

Concern over expansion

By Violet Li

Casey Council has raised concerns over a proposed 12-fold expansion of a Cranbourne South school in the Western Port Green Wedge.

Australian Christian College Casey is seeking to expand its existing school at 271-275 Pearcedale Road from a 125-student education centre into a 1500-student campus, with an estimated development cost of $95 million.

The planning application has been lodged with the State Government’s Development Facilitation Program, a pathway designed to streamline decisions for priority projects. It seeks approval for Stage 1 of the development, as well as an overall staged masterplan for future works.

What is the planning application?

Stage 1 works include a three-storey primary school building, outdoor play area, oval, relocated swale, bio-retention basin, additional car parking and landscaping.

Under the proposal, student numbers would increase from 125 to 875 in Stage 1, before eventually reaching 1500 by Stage 5.

The school currently operates under a planning permit issued by Casey Council in 2016, which allowed an education centre with a maximum capacity of 125 students.

In its application, the school argues the expansion is needed to meet growing education demand in Casey’s growth corridor. It says the catchment is expected to accommodate an additional 60,000 residents over the next 20 years, with school-aged population growth forecast to reach 44 per cent by 2046.

Council’s position:

Casey Council has confirmed it is not the decision maker for the application.

However, it said it had reviewed the proposal and made a submission to the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP).

“We have raised concerns around traffic, parking and environmental impacts included in the proposal,” Council stated.

“We have offered to continue working with

DTP to advocate for better planning outcomes regarding this application.”

Traffic and environment impacts

The applicant’s masterplan proposes 254 on-site car spaces, Pearcedale Road access with separated entry and exit movements, and 113 bicycle spaces in Stage 1.

The applicant’s traffic assessment finds that the two proposed school access points on Pearcedale Road would operate well below practical capacity in Stage 1, with minimal delays and queues. It also concludes the increase in traffic would not adversely affect Pearcedale Road’s operation.

The report reaches the same conclusion for the ultimate Stage 5.

However, it identifies the nearby Cranbourne-Frankston Road, Ballarto Road and Pearcedale Road roundabout as a key pressure point.

The report finds the roundabout would perform poorly by Stage 5 and indicates it can only support the proposed school traffic up to Stage 3

without further detailed assessment and potential upgrades.

The applicant’s flora and fauna report also identifies Southern Brown Bandicoots at the site.

A 20-metre biodiversity corridor along the southern boundary is proposed.

Community objection

The Casey Residents and Ratepayers Association (CRRA) has lodged a formal objection, arguing the application raises serious planning issues for the Western Port Green Wedge.

CRRA president Anthony Tassone said the association’s concerns were based on planning merit and the long-term protection of the Green Wedge, not the school’s religious affiliation or education model.

“This isn’t a debate about whether Casey needs more schools. We absolutely do,” he said.

“The real question is whether this is the right location for a development of this scale.”

CRRA’s submission raises concerns about Green Wedge planning policy, biodiversity and threatened species, traffic and infrastructure ca-

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pacity, flooding and bushfire risks, and the overall scale and intensity of the proposed development.

“The Green Wedge is not simply land waiting to be developed,” Mr Tassone said.

“It exists to protect important environmental, agricultural and landscape values, and planning decisions should reflect those long-term objectives.

“That’s why it’s important the proposal is assessed carefully against the planning framework, with the long-term interests of the community in mind.”

Current status: under assessment

A DTP spokesperson said the matter remained under assessment.

“As this request is currently under assessment it would be inappropriate to comment further,” they said.

DTP advised the application had been advertised, with letters sent to adjoining properties and signs installed on the site.

About 15 submissions have been received.

Council has provided comments to the department about the proposal, and all matters raised are currently being reviewed by the applicant.

To know more about the application, visit: planning.vic.gov.au/planning-approvals/ministerial-permits-register/ministerial-permits/ b7561039-9e4a-f111-bec5-00224896d3a0

Australian Christian College Casey was contacted for comments.

More Australians are choosing life beyond the big cities

Australiansaremovingtoregionalcommunities in record numbers , with new data showing the shift away from capital cities continues to gather pace.

The latest Regional Movers Index found the number of people moving from capital cities to regional Australia reached its highest level since the index began. In the March 2026 quarter, people moving to the regions outnumbered those heading back to the cities by almost 30 per cent.

Regional Australia Institute chief executive Liz Ritchie said the result reflected the growing appeal of regional living.

“This is the highest level of capital to regional movement the RMI has ever recorded,” she said. “Australians are continuing to choose regional life in greater numbers, even as economic conditions shift.”

While Sydney and Melbourne continue to account for most people leaving capital cities, the trend is becoming more widespread, with increasing numbers of movers also coming from Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide.

The Sunshine Coast remained the most popular destinationforcitymovers,whileGreaterGeelong, Fraser Coast, Moorabool and Lake Macquarie were also among the leading destinations. Thedataalsoshowsgrowthisspreadingbeyond established regional hotspots.

Toowoomba recorded the strongest year-onyear increase in people moving from capital cities of any local government area in Australia. Other locations attracting growing numbers of residents included Broome, Townsville and the Mid-Coast region of New South Wales.

Ritchie said the data helps identify emerging growth areas and gives communities an opportunity to plan for future housing, infrastructure and services.

For regional businesses, population growth can create new opportunities as communities expand and local economies grow.

Read the full story at CommBank Newsroom.

Roadworks squeeze Clyde motorists

By Violet Li

Residents say they are being boxed in by a cluster of roadworks around Clyde and Cranbourne, with three major projects hitting the same local network at once and turning everyday trips into detours.

The pressure points include the State Government’s Clyde Five-Way and South Gippsland Highway intersection upgrade, the Browns Road upgrade between Craig Road and South Gippsland Highway being delivered by the Peet, and Ballarto Road works by the developer Stockland, where the Muddy Gates Lane intersection has been closed.

Longer travel times, mounting costs Clyde resident Leah Cook said locals were not opposed to the upgrades, but the combined timing had left drivers with few practical options.

She said a trip from her Moores Road area into Cranbourne could now take about 25 to 30 minutes in busy periods.

She used to take the South Gippsland Highway to Cranbourne but now she has to use the back streets.

“Now the back streets with the primary schools in them are congested. We have to use the back streets to get from our place into Cranbourne, and the near misses in there are happening now,” she said.

Leah’s family’s business was also being hit, with jobs across Melbourne now needing extra time before they could even reach the freeway network.

“It takes half an hour to 45 minutes to get out of Cranbourne,” she said.

“To get to a 9am job at Footscray, we are leaving at 7.15am in the morning.

“It’s costly because the cost of fuel is already high.”

Leah said the upgrades were needed, but residents wanted better staging.

“We’re grateful that it’s happening because it needed to happen so many years ago,” she said.

“But they haven’t done it properly.”

Calls for better coordination

Casey Residents and Ratepayers Association

president Anthony Tassone said residents understood major roadworks were necessary, but said people experienced the disruption as one road network, not separate projects.

“What residents are frustrated by is the cumulative impact of several major projects affecting the same road network at the same time,” he said.

“Some overlap between projects may be unavoidable, but that only reinforces the need for better coordination, traffic management and communication between governments, councils, developers and infrastructure agencies.

“No one expects roadworks to happen without some inconvenience, but they do expect that disruption to be managed effectively.”

Casey Council responds: disruptions hard to avoid

Casey Council has advised that Ballarto Road and Clyde Five Ways Road are State-managed roads, with traffic management plans approved by the State and Council consulted on the arrangements.

Council approved the Browns Road transport management plan.

Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen acknowledged the longer travel times and inconvenience, but said the works were essential to support growth and improve the road network.

“While every effort is made to minimise overlapping roadworks, the scale and timing of infrastructure works being delivered across Casey’s growth area, coupled with our contractual obligations, means it is sometimes not possible to sequence projects to avoid all disruptions,” he said. State, Peet and Stockland respond

A Department of Transport and Planning spokesperson said the Clyde Five Ways works would make the South Gippsland Highway intersection safer, reduce congestion and improve conditions for pedestrians.

“We thank the local community for their patience while these important works are underway,” they said.

The Department has advised that it had coordinated with the authorities responsible for the Browns Road and Ballarto Road projects.

This included keeping the Manks Road right-

Reservists set to be deployed to free up time for serving officers

By Jensy Callimootoo

Over 450 former police officers have applied to become reservists at police stations across the state with just 25 to be picked to be deployed in late July.

It is yet unclear how many will be deployed to police stations in Casey with a Victoria Police spokesperson saying further details about exact locations will be announced in due course.

It comes as the police force continues to face up to 1500 vacancies and staffing shortfalls, prompting calls for mass overhauls as crime in Victoria escalates.

Recent crime data revealed that burglary and break-ins in Casey have risen compared to the previous year, specifically in Berwick and Hallam. With family violence incidents also rising.

Victoria Police says that reservists will take over counter duties at stations.

turn open and planning construction staging to begin work in areas that have less impact to the Ballarto Road works first.

The intersection upgrade is expected to finish in early 2027.

A Peet spokesperson said the Browns Road works involved deep pipe laying and drainage construction to manage water flows as the area developed.

Wet conditions and groundwater had slowed progress, with completion anticipated in late July, barring further adverse weather.

“We thank locals for their patience as these works are completed,” they said.

A Stockland spokesperson said the Ballarto Road works were delivering stormwater drainage infrastructure for Evergreen and the broader Clyde catchment.

“The community was provided advance notice of the closure via email, and a subsequent letterbox drop as works had to be extended due to wet weather conditions,” they said.

“The closure and associated traffic management arrangements were developed in accordance with Department of Transport and Planning and Casey City Council approval processes, while a Traffic Impact Assessment was also completed to inform the approved detour routes.”

Ballarto Road is expected to reopen from 13 July, with traffic management to continue after reopening, including a contraflow system.

“We understand there are a number of road projects being delivered in the area that are impacting traffic conditions across the broader road network,” the spokesperson said.

“While Stockland is responsible for the Ballarto Road works, enquiries relating to the coordination of roadworks across the wider network should be directed to Casey City Council.

“While we always work to minimise disruption to the community during construction, temporary closures are sometimes required to safely deliver essential infrastructure that supports both existing residents and future growth across the broader Clyde community.

“We thank the community for its patience while these important works are completed.”

Such as picking up phone calls, assisting with paperwork, signing statutory declarations, taking crime reports and receiving exhibits into police custody.

In turn, a police spokesperson said this will free up time for serving officers to be out in the community as well as “detecting and preventing crime out in the field”.

“Reservists will be based at police stations performing reception counter duties across the state including Victoria Police’s busiest stations where the former police will have the greatest benefit,” said a media release.

“Analysis shows police spend more than 4000 hours a day – 1.4 million hours a year - staffing reception counters in police stations.”

Expressions of interest have exceeded 650, with 450 former members officially applying to take part in the initiative.

25 ex-police will be selected for a week of training on 20 July, where they will be deployed to police stations the following week.

Rolling squads will follow every few weeks until the end of the year.

Tailored training will encompass refresher classes in a variety of disciplines identified as critical to the newly-created frontline support officer role.

“The training will be bespoke and tailored to the individual reservists, depending on the time they’ve been out of the force,” said a spokesperson.

“It involves a one-week program at the academy to ensure their policing knowledge is current and they’re brought up with the latest on Victoria Police’s policies and processes.

“As reservists won’t leave the station they don’t need to carry operational safety equipment.”

By the end of the year approximately 200 reservists will be recruited all up.

Applications to become a reservist remain open with full time and part time positions available.

FOCUS ON … FAMILY RUN BUSINESS

Crafting timeless memories for generations

For more than four decades, Berwick Village Jewellers has been helping local families celebrate life’s most treasured moments with beautiful jewellery, expert craftsmanship and genuine personalised service. Proudly familyowned and operated, the business continues a tradition first established over 45 years ago, building a reputation as one of Berwick’s most trusted jewellers.

Located in Blackburne Square, Berwick Village Jewellers is led by Anthony and Sylvia, who together bring more than 30 years of industry experience to every customer interaction. Anthony is a qualified jeweller and watchmaker, having learned the trade from a young age, and remains passionate about creating and restoring treasured pieces that will be cherished for generations.

What sets Berwick Village Jewellers apart is its commitment to quality workmanship and personalised service. Whether customers are searching for the perfect engagement ring, a special gift, a luxury timepiece or a bespoke jewellery design, the experienced team takes

the time to understand each individual’s vision and budget.

The store also offers a comprehensive range of onsite services, including jewellery repairs, watch repairs, remodelling, restorations and valuations. Having these services completed onsite provides customers with peace of mind, knowing their treasured possessions are in the hands of experienced professionals.

As a true family business, Berwick Village Jewellers understands the sentimental value behind every piece. From engagement rings and anniversary gifts to heirloom restorations and custom creations, the team takes pride in helping customers mark life’s most important milestones.

For generations of local families, Berwick Village Jewellers has been more than just a jewellery store—it has been a trusted part of the community, creating beautiful pieces and lasting memories that stand the test of time.

Your local battery experts

For more than 21 years, Battery Zone Pakenham has been helping keep the local community powered up with expert advice, quality products and genuine old-fashioned customer service. Conveniently located on Princes Highway, the business has built a strong reputation as the go-to destination for batteries for everything from cars, trucks and caravans to boats, tools, farm machinery and household devices.

Founded by Charlie Carter, Battery Zone Pakenham began in 2005 and has grown into a respected family owned Australian company with a strong focus on customer care, reliability and community values. Charlie’s local knowledge and commitment to the region have helped make the Pakenham store a trusted name for both everyday motorists and trade customers alike.

The experienced team at Battery Zone Pakenham pride themselves on offering honest advice, competitive pricing and an extensive range of

products to suit all applications. Customers can also take advantage of services including free battery testing, fitting, recycling and roadside replacement assistance.

As a proudly locally owned and Australian company, Battery Zone continues to support the growing Pakenham community with personalised service and expert solutions. Whether it’s a simple replacement battery or a specialised setup for caravans, 4WDs or marine equipment, the team is always ready to help customers find the right solution to stay powered on the road, at work or at home.

Call in and speak with Charlie and the helpful team at Battery Zone Pakenham.

· Shop 9/206 Princes Highway, Pakenham

· Phone: 5940 1364 or email pakenham@batteryzone.com.au

World Cup dream ends

The Socceroos’ remarkable World Cup campaign came to a heartbreaking end on Saturday morning, but not before hundreds of passionate fans turned Bunjil Place into a sea of green and gold.

Supporters braved the pre-dawn chill to watch Australia’s Round of 32 clash against Egypt on the venue’s big screen, creating an electric atmosphere as the nation dared to dream of a place in the last 16.

Families, football clubs and groups of friends filled the venue, many arriving before 4am to support the Socceroos together in what has become one of Australia’s most memorable men’s World Cup campaigns.

The screening capped off a fortnight of football fever at Bunjil Place, following the successful live broadcast of Australia’s groupstage draw against Paraguay the previous week.

Despite cheers erupting when Australia found the back of the net, after a tense 1-1 draw, the match was decided in a dramatic penalty shootout, where Egypt prevailed 4-2 to end Australia’s World Cup journey.

With Casey home to one of Australia’s fastest-growing and most culturally diverse football communities, the screenings highlighted the city’s love of the world game.

Industrial estate for Cranbourne West

More businesses could soon move into Cranbourne West, with Salta launching the second stage of its Industrial Quarter precinct after selling out the first stage within 12 months.

The privately owned property group said Stage 1 of iQ Cranbourne West had generated almost $60 million in gross revenue, with more than 6.4 hectares of industrial land sold.

Stage 2 has now been released to market, with a limited number of land lots ranging from 1472 square metres to 6408 square metres available for builders, investors and owner-occupiers.

Located at 690 Western Port Highway, the industrial precinct is positioned near the South Gippsland Freeway, Princes Highway and Monash Freeway, linking it to major freight and logistics routes.

Salta said demand for the first stage came from a mix of small businesses, major industrial operators, manufacturers and builders, drawn by the precinct’s lot sizes, location and long-term growth prospects.

Capital V Group was among the purchasers.

Salta director of commercial and industrial development Owen Smith said the result exceeded expectations.

“To achieve this result in the current market environment demonstrates the strength of the iQ Cranbourne West proposition and reinforces the confidence businesses have in Melbourne’s South East as a place to invest and grow,” he said.

Sales agent Andrew O’Connell, director of GO Commercial Industrial Real Estate, said opportunities of this kind were becoming harder to find, with limited supply expected to drive further interest in Stage 2.

Stage 1 construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2026, with Stage 2 construction anticipated to start in early 2027.

BERWICK

TIP-STARS

WHAT’S ON

NAIDOC Week - Bushfood

Walking Tour

Hudson Fraser from Living Culture will lead a guided walk through the Australian Garden, highlighting native plants that are important sources of bushfood for our First Peoples.

• Thursday 9 July, tours at 11am-12.30pm and 1.30pm-3pm at Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne; free event. Bookings essential at rbg. vic.gov.au/cranbourne-gardens/whats-on-cranbourne/naidoc-celebrations/

NAIDOC Week - Bushfood Truffles

Join First Peoples artist Sammy Trist to make some delicious bushfood inspired no-bake truffles. A family-friendly, kids activity.

• Thursday 9 July, drop-in sessions 10am11am, 11.30am-12.30pm, 1pm-2pm at Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne kiosk; free event. NAIDOC Story Time

Join us for a 45 min special story time celebrating Australian First Nations stories. We’ll be reading a selection of children’s books from our library collection, followed by a simple, fun activity inspired by the stories. For ages 3-5.

• Thursday 9 July, 2pm-2.45pm at Hampton Park Library, 26 Stuart Avenue, Hampton Park; free event. Bookings: events.connectedlibraries. org.au/event?id=221739

Snowy Storytime at the Shops

Warm up with a cozy, wintry storytime. Create your own playdough snowman to take home. Siblings and warm drinks welcome. For ages 3-5.

• Friday 10 July, 11am at Endeavour Hills Shopping Centre, cnr Heatherton Road and Matthew Flinders Avenue, Endeavour Hills; free event. Bookings: events.connectedlibraries.org.au/ event?id=217676

Berwick District

Woodworkers exhibition

Annual expo marking the club’s 40th anniversary, including a biennial exhibition of the Australian Scroll Saw Network in the Hayshed Studio. Woodworking demonstrations, timber sales, a chainsaw artist demo, farmers market and kids’ corner.

• Friday 10 July, 5pm-8pm; Saturday 11 July, 9am-5pm; and Sunday 12 July, 9am-5pm at Old Cheese Factory, Homestead Road, Berwick; free event.

Crafty Creatures - Daytime Sessions

Creative craft stations, large-scale animal lanterns, immersive bush soundscapes and a fossil dig sandpit.

• Daily until 11 July, 9am-2pm at Wilson Botanic Park Berwick; $8 for ages 2-17, $2 supervising adults. Bookings: events.humanitix.com/craftycreatures-night-events

The Megaphone Project Twenty-five giant megaphones in a range of shapes and sizes will be travelling across Casey. Visitors are invited to explore, play and interact with the installation.

• Saturday 27 June - Sunday 12 July, 10am4pm at various locations. Details: casey.vic.gov. au/events/megaphone-project Berwick Farmers Market

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

• Saturday 11 July, 8am-12pm at Old Cheese Factory, Homestead Road, Berwick; gold coin entry.

Casey’s Got Talent

People of all ages take to the stage to share music, comedy, dance, spoken word, party tricks, and the “we-didn’t-see-that-coming” moments. Hosted by CityLife Church. Food available for purchase on the night.

• Saturday 11 July 5pm-8pm at Waverley Christian College, MPC Building, 20 College Dr, Narre Warren South; free event.

Crafty Creatures - Night Events

Family-friendly celebration of Aussie wildlife, craft, cubby houses, hands-on reptiles and live music. Cafe and sausage sizzle.

• Saturday 11 July, 5.30pm-8.30pm at Wilson Botanic Park Berwick; $8pp, children under 2 free. Bookings: events.humanitix.com/craftycreatures-night-events

FIFA World Cup at Bunjil Place

Screened live on the Bunjil Place outdoor screen in all weather. Bring your own seating, rugs, and/ or picnic. No alcohol.

• daily until Sunday 19 July at Bunjil Place,

General Classifieds Employment

Narre Warren; free entry. No registration required. Details: bunjilplace.com.au/news/fifaworld-cup-on-big-screen Filigree of the Pen

Discover the elegance of Persian calligraphy in this introductory workshop inspired by the Filigree of the Pen project. Led by artist Musa Zakizada. Suitable for beginners and anyone interested in art, culture, and creative expression. No prior experience required. For ages 16-plus.

• Wednesday 15 July 2026, 6.30pm at Hampton Park Library, 26 Stuart Avenue, Hampton Park; free event. Bookings: events.connectedlibraries.org.au/event?id=216872

Playdaze

Families with children 0-5 years are invited to join us for free, fun playgroup activities, including Butterfly Adventures and Bubble Fun with Dr Hubble.

• Thursday 16 July 10am-11.30am at Fleetwood Primary School, 97 Fleetwood Drive, Narre Warren; free event.

Brown Women Comedy Workshops

Eight-week stand-up comedy course for women of colour, created and delivered by Australian South Asian Centre (ASAC). Learn joke writing, storytelling, comedic structure, improvisation, stage presence and dealing with nerves. You’ll also get dedicated script coaching, peer feedback sessions. Finishes with a showcase performance in front of a live audience.

• Thursdays 16 July-10 September 6.30pm9.30pm (with up-and-comers’ showcase Saturday 12 September) at Bunjil Place, Narre Warren; $200 (for Casey residents). Bookings: tickets. bunjilplace.com.au/11454

Choral concert

Cranbourne Chorale presents “Reflections”, a varied song suite to please everyone.

• Sunday 19 July, 2.30pm at Cranbourne Community Theatre, Brunt Street, Cranbourne followed by afternoon tea; $ 35/$30/$10. Tickets available at Trybooking, or at the door.

Night Walk with Dad’s Matter

Bring your children for a spotlighting adventure and meet nocturnal animals as they wake up and begin their night’s activities. BYO torch or spotlight. Supported by City of Casey Sustainability and Environment team.

• Monday 20 July, 6pm-7.30pm at Morning Mist Reserve, 45 Langley Road, Cranbourne South; free event. Limited tickets, bookings: trybooking. com/DKABX/

Active After Dark

Exercise safely at night in well-lit sporting facilities. Guided walking/running session, as well as a football activation from Hampton Park Junior Football Club. $10 canteen vouchers for the first 50 people. Presented by Casey Street Team from Aligned Leisure.

• Wednesday 22 July, 6.30pm-8pm at Cairns Rd Reserve, Cairns Road and Campbell Drive, Hampton Park; free event. Bookings: trybooking. com/events/landing/1611367

Tree Planting

Join City of Casey in planting 5000 plants this National Tree Day to help restore habitat. Bring along your waterbottles, gloves, dress for the weather. Closed toe shoes are mandatory. Please note this is a ticketed event. Limited walk-in spots may be available on the day, subject to capacity • Sunday 26 July, 10am-1pm at Scarborough Avenue Reserve, Cranbourne West. Register at eventbrite.com.au/e/2026-city-of-casey-treeplanting-event-tickets-1980844720883?aff=od dtdtcreator

Follow Your Recycling Tour

Hop on the bus and travel to Cleanaway’s materials recovery facility in Laverton - to the Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) and (hopefully) Cleanaway’s Recycling Education Centre in Hallam, before returning to Bunjil Place. For people over 16 only. Fully catered.

• Tuesday 28 July, 9am-4.30pm at Bunjil Place, Narre Warren; free event. Bookings required at events.humanitix.com/follow-your-recycling-tour1-2026-city-of-casey

Berwick Half-Marathon

The Berwick Half features a flat 5.25-kilometre circuit with distances for the entire family - a halfmarathon run/walk, 10-kilometre run/walk, fun 5-kilometre run/walk, kids mile (1.6 km, 7-13 year olds), junior jog (400m, under 7s).

• Sunday 9 August, 7am-12pm at Berwick Springs Park, 46 Berwick Springs Promenade, Narre Warren South; $30-$85. Bookings: berwickhalf.com.au

throughout Melbourne’s south-east and regional Victoria. About the Role :

Want to place an ad but not sure where to start? Call our helpful classified team between 8:30am-5pm Mon-Fri for FREE advice!

This is an exciting opportunity to manage an established client portfolio while actively developing new business opportunities across our diverse media platforms. The successful applicant will work with local businesses to create effective advertising campaigns incorporating:

• Newspaper advertising• Digital display advertising

• Sponsored online content• Email marketing campaigns

• Digital Newsletter

Key Responsibilities :

• Maintain and grow an existing client base.

• Identify and secure new business opportunities.

• Develop tailored advertising and marketing solutions for clients.

• Prepare proposals, presentations and campaign recommendations.

• Work collaboratively with editorial, design and digital teams to deliver outstanding client outcomes.

About You: You will possess:

• Excellent communication, negotiation and presentation skills.

• Strong organisational and time management abilities.

• A positive attitude and a passion for helping local businesses succeed.

• A current driver’s license and reliable vehicle. What We Offer :

An established territory with existing clients. • Competitive salary package including base salary and commission.

• Supportive team environment.

• The opportunity to work with a respected and trusted community media brand. • If you are passionate about sales, enjoy working within your local community and thrive in a fast-paced media environment, we’d love to hear from you.

The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme. Send your application letter and resume to: Advertising Sales Manager Mandy Clark mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au

Wickers steam past Balwyn

By Justin Schwarze

It’s all aboard the Berwick hype train as the Wickers went full steam ahead and powered past reigning premiers Balwyn in round 12 of the Eastern Premier Division.

Berwick’s season is chugging along brilliantly, with Andrew Williams’ men back in the finals picture following a stirring 9.7 (61) to 7.9 (51) result at Edwin Flack Reserve.

It was sparked from a blazing start, with Dylan Linden putting Berwick on the board very early with some impressive forward craft.

Ben Devenish popped up a kick inside 50 in the Jai Neal direction, which was punched away.

Linden read it best, collecting the footy at full stride before running in and putting it through from the goalline.

Jimmy Miller buried the Tigers’ first after drawing a free, followed by Luke Nelson crumbing the footy in the forward 50 before throwing it on the boot to nail the Wickers’ second.

Late in the first term, skipper Will Arthurson intercepted a kick at half forward and immediately speared Lewis Hill on the lead.

Hill’s shot sailed just right, but the hosts put on immense pressure to get it moving back inside 50, where Neal corralled the ball off hands and looped a handball over to Hill at full speed, who had no one between him and the goal and walked it home.

The quarter time siren went not long after, and Berwick had built a 3.3 (21) to 1.2 (8) buffer.

Sam Frangalas marked a fair way out from goal early in the second but unloaded a bomb that cleared the line to start proceedings, which was soon followed by Matt Nelson evading a tackler with a spinning pirouette before finding Devenish.

Devenish kicked truly, and suddenly the Wickers had the reigning back-to-back premiers on the ropes at 33-8.

Sam Papas provided a much-needed major for Balwyn, picking up the footy on a half volley before wheeling onto his right boot and putting it through.

But Berwick had all the momentum, as Devenish handed off to Hill, who burst through a pack into space and he capitalised by slotting his second on the run.

And the Wickers looked unstoppable, with Ashton Williamson emerging out of a stoppage with the footy before executing a perfect one-two overlapping handball sequence with Devenish to stroll in and kick a fourth Berwick goal of the term.

At halftime, the hosts led 7.4 (46) to 2.4 (16).

The Tigers were determined to have the first say of the second half, as Obie Chambers marked and flushed one from distance.

But just like all afternoon, the Wickers had a counter - this time through Jai Neal.

Berwick launched through the corridor and Sam Woodward kicked to space inside 50, which was picked up by Tahj De La Rue.

De La Rue drew a defender and handed off to Neal, who ran it in.

It seemed Denzel Toland dealt the knockout blow with a diving mark and set shot goal to increase the margin to 33 points, but the class of the Tigers couldn’t be kept down forever.

After Berwick was the owner of a 9.5 (59) to 3.8 (26) advantage at three-quarter time, Balwyn flashed its premiership credentials to nearly cause an almighty boilover.

It started with Liam Frazer kicking inboard for a diving Alexander Urban, who went back and split the

middle on his set shot.

Following a Jai Neal miss, the visitors went coastto-coast and Jack Tillig got out the back for a run-in goal.

And Balwyn won the ensuing centre bounce, immediately finding Will La Motte, who pegged it back six more points with a perfectly-guided attempt.

Berwick was able to stem the bleeding and hold strong for a few minutes as precious time ticked off the clock, but the Tigers wouldn’t go out without a fight as Jarrod Lienert put another one through from distance to cut it to 10 points.

But the final charge was too late, with the siren echoing across the ground not long after, followed by the famous words of the Wickers’ song being belted from the rooms.

Arthurson was named best afield for the fourth straight contest after a dazzling display down back, while Hill was the only multiple goalkicker in the game with a pair of majors.

“We always knew they were going to come pretty hard and throw it all at us,” Berwick senior coach Williams said of Balwyn’s late-game scare.

“That was always going to be our test, whether we could weather that.

“It was a really good test for us to just hang in there and it felt like those last couple of minutes we were able to get it back on our terms and control and save the game.

“It was good to get the result but the work we’d done to put our noses in front was important.

“We were able to create some loose ball opportunities and get our best players into the game.

“I feel like when we’re able to play with a bit of flow and get the ball into the hands of our best users, we give our forwards an opportunity to move.

“Off the back of that, we’re able to defend.

“Most of that comes off pressure and effort

Stanton the man for Lions

By Justin Schwarze

Pakenham is all-in on Justin Stanton’s philosophy as the club put pen to paper to retain him as senior coach for at least the next two seasons.

Stanton has developed a strong reputation and relationship with everyone involved at the club, from the playing group to the committee.

“It’s always important when you know you’ve got the support of the executive, the playing group and the supporter base, so that’s really pleasing,” he said on being re-signed.

“It’s a happy place at Pakenham, there’s no doubt about that and we’re all working hard to try and get some success.

“We’re also ensuring that we get everything right both on and off the field so when we transition into what our future looks like down the track, we’re well-placed.

“That’s an exciting aspect of it, the players are terrific, it’s a great place.”

On the field, Stanton couldn’t have started his second year at the helm any better, with the Lions currently sitting atop the Outer East Division 1 ladder with an undefeated record.

Last season, he led a very young group to a top-three finish and preliminary final appearance.

But on the thought of being in the position for the foreseeable future, Stanton was very grateful for the faith put in him and his staff.

“It reinforced that what myself and the other coaches are doing is working so far, so that’s reassuring,” he said.

“Like in any field, if you get the support of the decision makers around you, that gives you the confidence that we’re heading in the right path, so it’s really pleasing.”

around the footy.

“It was high pressure early on, it felt like our pressure was good enough to create good balls for us going forward and create some really good chances.

“Our guys were terrific, particularly in the first half to try and set the game up, which was really important for us.”

The Wickers jumped back into the top five and evened their record at 6-6 with another home game coming up in round 13 against eighth-placed South Croydon.

It’s been a breakout season at Edwin Flack Reserve, and Williams credits it to an alignment across the board.

He specifically mentioned his coaching group as playing an instrumental role in not only the win, but also the season to date.

“Robert Monk did a massive amount of work in his preparation and our data and really set us up for the win this week,” Williams said of his lead assistant.

“Shane Burgmann has come up from the under19s and been our defensive coach.

“He’s been doing a heap of work with our defenders and our craft.

“Luke Nelson was certainly a massive influence on the result, he’s all class with the ball in hand but he’s also part of our coaching group, he’s been terrific for us.

“I feel like there’s a hell of a lot more belief in not only our ability to win, but also in going to the way we want to set the game up and play it on our terms.

“We’ve been a lot more consistent in that space in giving ourselves a chance to win games.”

Cavs earn first ever finals

By Justin Schwarze

For the first time in club history, the Casey Cavaliers Women will play finals in the NBL1 South after securing a finals berth in round 13.

The Cavaliers split their weekend’s games, but they remain in the top four with just two games to play.

On Saturday, Casey fell in a competitive hitout against Kilsyth 105-92.

The Cobras were prolific offensively on their home court, shooting 13/23 from downtown while converting on 49.4 percent of their shots as a team.

They also outscored the visitors 50-36 on the interior, spearheaded by winning the middle two quarters 65-45.

Dallas Loughridge gave everything in the loss, scoring 29 points while dishing out nine assists, and Samantha Bowman recorded a double-double of 22 points and 11 rebounds.

Chelsea D’Angelo struggled with her shot but finished with a full statline of 25 points, four boards, five dimes, three steals and two blocks.

Following that, Casey travelled to Keilor and scraped out a 59-49 victory in a low-scoring, scrappy and bizarre game that both teams will quickly forget.

It was a game where whichever side was a little bit less poor than the other would win, and the Cavaliers were five-percent better.

Both teams shot below 30 percent from the field and sub-25 percent from downtown, highlighted by a dismal fourth term that saw the Thunder take it by a score of 9-7 with five combined made field goals.

Bowman was sensational however, being the only player on the floor to shoot 50 percent or better as she connected on 9/18 shots.

She was easily the best player on the floor by registering 20 points, 14 rebounds and four steals.

It was a crucial win despite the ugliness, keeping Casey in fourth position with a record of 14-6.

The Men had a disastrous weekend, dropping both games to fall outside the finals picture.

A second-quarter lapse sunk the Cavaliers in their first game against Kilsyth, where they were outscored 38-21 and never recovered.

The Cobras couldn’t miss, knocking down

6/10 threes while going a perfect 8/8 in the paint in the term.

It set the tone, allowing them to build their lead to as big as 21, with Casey only getting as close as eight points in the third quarter.

Kilsyth went on to win 105-86, highlighted by

24 points off the bench from Malik McKinney. Lual Diing stepped up for the Cavaliers despite defeat, as he finished with 21 points on 9/14 shooting.

On Sunday, Casey’s heart was broken by Keilor 98-97 in the dying seconds following a goahead runner by Deng Dut that proved to be the difference.

After a game of runs, the Cavaliers found themselves up one with under 30 seconds remaining.

The Thunder got to the rim but Dut couldn’t bank it home and Diing hauled in the defensive board.

Diing was fouled on the way down, meaning Casey got the ball on the baseline.

But Trent Andre made a crucial error, foolishly picking up the basketball in the backcourt under pressure, before throwing an errant bounce pass that sailed out of bounds.

After a timeout, Dut went around a ball screen and got the switch of Diing on the perimeter.

It was a matchup he liked, and he blew by Diing before elevating into a floater that hung up on the rim but dropped with 1.9 seconds on the clock.

The Cavaliers had one more chance to win it but Preston Bungei’s inbound pass, intended for Patrick Ryan, was picked off.

All five starters were in double-figures for Luke Kendall’s side, with Ibrahima Diallo’s 23 points the standout.

It was a crushing defeat that saw Casey sink to ninth on the table at a record of 11-9 with two games remaining.

In round 14, both outfits host local rivals Dandenong, with the men’s matchup potentially a ‘win and you’re in’ game.

Dandenong sits eighth and Casey is just behind in ninth, but both teams share the same record, so a win to either side is monumental.

Decisions costly as Beaconsfield beaten but not Bowd

By David Nagel

Decision making is - and always has been - a huge part of the great game we all love and became a defining feature of Beaconsfield’s heartbreaking one-point loss to Wantirna South at Walker Reserve on Saturday.

A thrilling contest was decided after the final siren, with Jesse Warner showing nerves of steel to nail a clutch goal from a tight angle to provide Wantirna South with a pulsating 15.10 (100) to 15.9 (99) victory that left Beaconsfield players stunned.

The Eagles had not given up the lead since the 11-minute mark of the second quarter; with a first win of the season against a top-five side looking all but secured after Kobe Shipp kicked his fourth for the afternoon at the 24-minute mark of the final term.

Shipp’s crucial set shot gave Beaconsfield an 11-point lead; the Devils in danger of slipping from third to fourth on the ladder.

But just three minutes later they were sitting second, after two goals to Warner triggered a full-on invasion from the home crowd.

Beaconsfield will no doubt focus on a decision from the field umpire in the last contest of the match; where Warner marked from the back position of a two-man contest against Beaconsfield skipper Jake Bowd.

Warner appeared to give Bowd a decent shove in the back, out of a pure desperation to be involved in the contest.

Bowd did everything right; playing in front and being ready to launch for the football before Warner initiated contact.

The officiating umpire paid no free-kick… with Warner going back and kicking the winner.

But decision making also played a key role in the final term for both teams, which began with Beaconsfield leading by 12 points and wellplaced to cause an upset.

Nathan Denes was the first to make a poor choice, early in the final stanza, conceding an off-the-ball free kick to Beaconsfield’s Jesse Morton; who went back and kicked truly to give the Eagles an even three-goal lead with 10 minutes ticked off the clock.

Denes didn’t take long to redeem himself however, kicking a brilliant goal just three minutes later to cut the Eagles’ advantage to 11 points.

Beaconsfield key defender Cooper Shipp then also made a costly choice, leaving Devils’ forward Liam Hewett unguarded, allowing the sharp-shooter to receive a handball from Devils’ ruck Jake Denes and reduce the margin back to five.

Shipp and Hewett then went goal for goal before the Beaconsfield star took a fantastic grab against the physically bigger Will Clarke.

Shipp went back and nailed his 45-metre set shot; goal 41 for the season, giving the Eagles their 11-point advantage, deep into red time.

Warner then took a quality mark and goaled, cutting the margin to five points after 26 minutes had elapsed.

Memories came flooding back to round two, when Beaconsfield conceded two goals with the last three kicks of the match to lose a three-point

thriller against Boronia.

It took a little longer this time around, but the pain was just as intense.

The second last important decision of the match came from Beaconsfield’s Kade De La Rue, who took possession of a free kick…deep in the back pocket, with a five-point lead and 48 seconds left on the clock.

The logical play was to kick long down the line to his ruck Ethan Winterton, but De La Rue decided to kick more centrally with the ball being marked by the tallest player on the ground; ruckman Denes from the Devils.

Denes drove long into the opposite pocket; where Warner took his mark and the umpire made the final decision of the match.

Warner went bang; lifting his side from fourth to second with one legendary kick, leaving the Eagles feeling stunned and hard done by.

Ultimately, yes, that final decision did cost Beaconsfield the game; but players from both

teams also made some crucial decisions under pressure.

The two heartbreaking losses, to Boronia and Wantirna South, have stopped Beaconsfield from being a genuine finals contender this season; potentially sitting just one game outside the top five.

Instead, Scott Kerr will now look to keep on developing his side; and try to finally win a close one against a higher team on the ladder.

The Eagles get the chance to do that again this week, against fourth-placed Park Orchards on the road.

Shipp ended with four, and Corey Brown three, while midfielders Devon Smith, Ali Zijai and Ethan Winterton joined defenders Bowd, Ben Schultze and Lachie Valentine on the Eagles’ list of best players.

• EASTERNDIVISION1

(100)

Wantirna South Goals: Liam Hewett 4, Kyle Cooper 2, Jamie Hunt 2, Jesse Warner 2, Jordan Dale, Jake Denes, Nathan Denes, Jett Flower, Lincoln Wong. Best: Lincoln Wong, Jake Denes, Jesse Warner, Salele Feagaimalii, Lachlan Noy, William Clarke.

Beaconsfield Goals: Kobe Shipp 4, Corey Brown 3, Myles Currie 2, Marley Appleyard, Jesse Morton, Charlie Muley, Devon Smith, JayDe Varlet, Ali Zijai. Best: Devon Smith, Ali Zijai, Ethan Winterton, Benjamin Schultze, Jake Bowd, Lachlan Valentine.

RESULTSR12: Bayswater 3.3(21) def by North Ringwood 13.15(93), Boronia 13.10(88) def Mooroolbark 4.6(30), Montrose 7.19(61) def by Park Orchards 13.14(92), Norwood 9.9(63) def Mitcham 8.11(59).

LADDER: North Ringwood 44, Wantirna South 38, Mitcham 36, Park Orchards 36, Montrose 28/ Boronia 20, Beaconsfield 16, Mooroolbark 14, Norwood 8, Bayswater 0.

FIXTURE R13 (Saturday 11 July): Park Orchards v Beaconsfield, Boronia v Norwood, Montrose v Wantirna South, Mooroolbark v Bayswater, North Ringwood v Mitcham.