News - Cranbourne Star News - 30th April 2026

Denis Maloney shows no signs of slowing down as a City of Casey community bus driver. Turning 85 today, Denis has been picking up elderly passengers for shopping trips and excursions for the past decade.

For more on the story, turn to page 2

(Gary Sissons: 550031)

Casey Council has intensified its push for major transport investment across Melbourne’s southeast growth corridor, ramping up advocacy ahead of the state budget and looming election in November.

At the centre of the campaign is the longproposed Clyde Rail Link, alongside urgent upgrades to Thompsons Road, Clyde Road corridor and Narre Warren - Cranbourne road.

The extension of the Clyde Rail Link is estimated to cost $2–3 billion, and is being positioned as critical to easing congestion in one of Victoria’s fastest-growing regions.

In speaking to Casey Mayor Stefan Koomen, he says residents are feeling the strain, with long commutes and limited public transport options driving heavy car dependence with infrastructure not keeping pace with rapid housing expan-

sion across suburbs like Clyde.

And while community advocacy has built momentum, the state government is not expected to prioritise the rail extension in the immediate term, instead signalling a stronger focus on expanded bus networks.

The issue has also become a political flashpoint, with the coalition backing the rail project,

though no firm funding commitment has been made.

Council leaders say both rail and bus upgrades are essential, warning that without investment, liveability, access to jobs, and affordability will deteriorate further as growth accelerates.

For more on this story, go to page 3

Denis driven by community

By Carmela Mendoza

At an age when most people would have retired their routine for rest, 85 year old Denis Maloney is still behind the wheel.

Not for a paycheck but for the people who rely on him.

Twice a week, he drives a community bus through the City of Casey, picking up elderly passengers, dropping them off at local shopping centres and building a sense of connection.

Turning 85 on April 30, Denis shows no signs of slowing down, driven by a simple belief.

“It’s all to do with elderly people and the community,” he says.

Denis joined the City of Casey in 2016. At 74 he volunteered as a bus driver for Social Support Planned Activity Group (PAG).

This service was for people aged 65 and over, to take them to places around Casey and Melbourne and enjoy social activities.

Once the program ended in 2022, Denis continued transporting elderly people through the Casey Connector Shopping Trips service, which he still does today.

At 84, Denis works 10 hours a week for this bus service while he is still a pensioner.

“I’ve put in more than 10 hours but I don’t care about that,” he says. “I don’t run around asking for extra money or anything.”

What Denis loves most is the “commitment and looking after those ladies,” who need his help the most.

“It sounds like a lot but it isn’t,” he says. “Another bloke would hear that and think I was mental.”

Workers like Denis are the key to keeping these services running.

His passengers know him for his kind and calm approach, ensuring that every person feels welcomed and relaxed.

The community he serves views him as someone they can trust and look forward to seeing.

Through gift giving and checking in, the elderly people he looks after return his kindness.

“They’re as nice to me as I am to them and I appreciate that,” Denis says.

Despite his age, Denis has no plans to retire from his driver’s seat.

Even if he moved on from his bus driving, he

believes that he will remain a volunteer for the community. “I’ll still do voluntary work, for as long as I can anyway,” Denis says.

His birthday wish this year is nothing complex.

CASEY’S DRAFT BUDGET AND ANNUAL ACTION PLAN IS OUTHAVE YOUR SAY

The City of Casey has released its draft Budget and Annual Action Plan for 2026/27, shaped by what our community says matters most - from safer places and easier ways to get around, to greener neighbourhoods and more jobs closer to home.

The documents outline Council’s priorities for the year ahead, through projects and services that support a stronger, more connected, liveable and sustainable city.

Council’s work is guided by five key focus areas: strong communities, a liveable city, a sustainable environment, a thriving local economy and a high performing organisation.

This year’s $691.4 million total draft Budget includes:

• $549.9 million for essential service delivery

• A $141.5 million Capital Works Program to deliver new and upgraded infrastructure across Casey

“I don’t know what I want but I just want everyone to be happy and the world to be a better place,” he says.

“If there’s a God out there, whoever it is, he’s looked after me.”

Have your say from 23 April to 14 May 2026.

For more information, scan the QR code or visit: conversations.casey.vic.gov.au/budget-2026-27

Transport pressures mount

By Jensy Callimootoo

Casey Council is intensifying its advocacy campaign for major upgrades to its transport and infrastructure ahead of the state budget release and election later this year.

Essential upgrades to Casey’s main roads, including Thompsons Road and the Clyde Road corridor, have emerged as key priorities for council.

In a recent interview, Casey’s Mayor Stefan Koomen said the campaign’s focus on transport reflects what residents are experiencing daily, including congestion, long commute times, and limited alternatives to car travel.

“We’re one of the fastest growing communities in Australia,” Cr Koomen said.

“We’re continuing to put new housing in every day, and with that, transport investment has to keep up.”

The council’s advocacy campaign is aimed largely at securing commitments from state and federal governments ahead of upcoming budgets and elections and while no firm commitments have yet been secured, the council says community engagement is helping build momentum.

“We’re seeing strong feedback from residents, and that does have an impact,” the mayor said.

“I think it’s important that governments understand what residents are feeling.”

At the centre of the transport push is the proposed Clyde Rail Link, a project that has long been requested by residents in the fast-growing suburb of Clyde and neighbouring regions.

This is estimated to cost between $2 to $3 billion.

Despite ongoing advocacy, recent indications suggest the project may not be prioritised by the state government in the immediate future.

Rather, Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas recently told Star News that alongside his neighbouring MPs, they are advocating for better bus networks in the growing fringes of Casey.

As the election nears however, Victoria’s opposition has capitalised on the long-standing matter related to the Clyde rail extension.

Berwick MP Brad Battin said his government was “working on it” , but no clear strategy or funding has yet been released.

“We’re looking at what we can do longer term around what we do with our funding policies,” said the Liberal MP.

“We’ll announce more as we get towards the election, but we are speaking to the community.”

Like Koomen, the Berwick MP has urged the community to continue vocalising their support for the rail upgrades.

“The one thing we’re saying to them is speak loud, go out, sign the petitions, it sounds annoying, but at the end of the day we need to remind the Labor government.”

Key community advocacy groups like the Casey Residents and Ratepayers Association (CRRA) said that it calls for bipartisan support to give certainty to one of Victoria’s fastest growing regions.

“We are seeking clear, bipartisan pre-election commitments from both Labor and the Coalition to fund and deliver the Cranbourne-Clyde rail extension,” said Anthony Tassone, CRRA president.

“Growth has already happened. The population is already here. The infrastructure needs to catch up.”

With an election on the horizon, Mayor Koomen says that the council is willing to work with “all sides of the parliament” and that it is “hopeful” they’ll be able to secure some commitments ahead of November.

“We haven’t seen any commitments yet but we welcome any that would be available in any of our projects,” he said.

In line with Maas’ comments, rather than focusing solely on one project, the council is advo-

cating for a broader expansion of public transport options, including improved bus networks.

This would include more frequent bus services, more direct routes and an increase in efficiency within the existing networks.

Already, the state government announced upgrades of $100 million to its bus networks, including the extension of routes in Botanic Ridge, Casey Fields, Clyde, Junction Village and Devon Meadows.

And longer operating hours between Berwick and Pakenham routes.

But the mayor made it clear that for the council, “it’s not one or the other”.

“We’re pushing for both and we’re not afraid to say that both are needed,” he said.

“We are realistic that we can’t deliver or get commitments for everything at once.

“But rail is needed out to Clyde as we continue to grow and getting to those train stations and getting to Cranbourne Station for our growing community we need bus connections, otherwise people can’t access that network.

“So it’s not one or the other for us, but they’re both really key priorities and we see the benefit that both could bring to our community.”

Cranbourne East residents call for rail station

By Jensy Callimootoo

Cranbourne East residents have paid millions in levies for a promised train station, yet nearly two decades on it remains unbuilt, with the community still calling for the infrastructure to be delivered.

In a letter from the council observed by Star News, as of June 2025, approximately $4.9M has been collected as part of its Rail Contribution Funds.

Under the council’s Cranbourne East Local Structure Plan (LSP) from 2009, every new dwelling is subjected to pay a levy of $722 to fund the electrification of the Cranbourne rail line along with the construction of a Cranbourne East railway station.

Due to indexation, this levy has increased over time.

About $2.8M of that portion is being held by council in reserve.

In acquisition of the land intended to be used for the station located on Godfrey Avenue, $2.1M was transferred to the Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources (DEDJTR).

Mother of four, Selda Nunuvero, has been a resident of Cranbourne East since 2007, but she says she’s still waiting for the delivery of critical infrastructure like the Cranbourne East train station.

Coming from the Western suburbs, Selda says that at the time of moving in nearly 20 years ago she was hopeful that accessible transport would be delivered in a timely manner, but that she’s been left “very disappointed” Echoing the frustration, President of the Casey Resident and Ratepayers Association (CRRA), Anthony Tassone said that the lag in delivering this project has been “unacceptable”

“Residents in Cranbourne East are paying a specific rail levy with every new home, yet years later they still have no train line and no station,” Tassone said.

“This isn’t a vague infrastructure promise, this is a charge written into the planning scheme that people are required to pay.”

“The land for the Cranbourne East station has already been purchased, so what’s missing is the commitment to actually build it.

Right now, Selda and her daughters who study in the CBD catch a bus to the Cranbourne Train Station, a journey that typically adds 20 minutes to their commute depending on traffic.

Comparing Cranbourne’s transport to other lines such as Pakenham and Frankston, Selda says that “Cranbourne is still stuck behind”

“I’ve seen Pakenham and Frankston stations and lines, I’ve seen how the infrastructure has kept up, whereas Cranbourne still remains the same,” she said.

“They haven’t done much.”

“I’ve been here many years, I see that other areas are being developed in terms of transportation, whereas here we don’t have a lot of options and now that they’re delaying the station, I’m very disappointed.”

“I just have to rely on catching a bus and it’s just too time consuming.”

As the November state election approaches, bolstered by the community, Tassone remains to advocate for the delivery of these transport promises

“We are continuing to strongly advocate for the delivery of the Cranbourne East station, because our community deserves the infrastructure it has already paid for,” he said.

Infrastructure Victoria (IV) outlines the recommendation of the extension and electrification of the Cranbourne line to Clyde and build four new stations (Dandenong South, Cranbourne East, Casey Fields, and Clyde) within their 30 year strategy plan — this is estimated to cost about $2 to 3 billion.

As the reliance on cars has been spotlighted in recent months, catapulted by the fuel crisis, the mayor warns that without significant state investment in transport infrastructure, the consequences could extend beyond congestion.

“If we continue to grow without the necessary infrastructure, we risk creating communities that are less liveable,” the mayor said.

“People will be more dependent on cars, which is expensive, and it makes it harder to access jobs, education, and services.”

With no stern political promises, over the next week and subsequently, up to the state election, residents and council alike will be watching closely for signs that long-standing transport gaps, including the Clyde Rail Link, are finally being addressed.

But for now, bolstered by the council’s campaign, the mayor is hopeful key priorities will be delivered.

“We’re confident that it’s getting traction because we do know residents are getting actively involved… and I think that’s getting through to our elected representatives as well,” he said.

“So we’re confident that there’ll be some good news.”

The upcoming State Budget will include $29 million to upgrade 10 Melbourne roads.

Pound Road in Hampton Park will be upgraded as part of a State Budget package across 10 roads in Greater Melbourne.

The $29.2 million funding is said to upgrade crossings, intersections and road surfaces on the 10 roads, including Belgrave-Gembrook Road, Cockatoo and Burwood Highway/Ferntree Gully Road, Ferntree Gully.

The State Budget, due to be tabled on Tuesday 4 May, will also fund a $1 billion blitz on major road repairs, including rubbish and graffiti removal on major freeways such as South Gippsland and Monash freeways.

The Government also promises to upgrade and extend bus routes into new Casey housing estates.

More details, turn to page 4 Budget

Better buses budget boost

Bus services in Dandenong, Casey and Pakenham will be part of a near-$100 million statewide upgrade, the State Government has announced.

In a pre-Budget announcement, the South East will receive the following improvements:

■Better connections from Dandenong to Chadstone and Monash Uni (Routes 802, 804 and 862)

■Longer trips and extended hours on Route 885

Springvale-Glen Waverley via Mulgrave

■Upgrading, extending routes across new estates in Botanic Ridge, Casey Fields, Clyde, Junction Village, Devon Meadows

■Longer operating hours between Berwick and Pakenham (Route 928)

Public and Active Transport Minister Gabrielle Williams said there will be more buses “north, south, east and west – and it’ll be halfprice to ride for the rest of the year”.

“With Donald Trump’s war driving up costs at home, more bus services help Victorians save money and time.”

Public transport advocate Peter Parker from Fix Dandy Buses said “overall it’s a good package” – the “best state budget for metropolitan services in about 10 years”.

“It’s important to note that decades of fragmented planning and years of underinvestment in public transport service cannot be fixed in a single budget.”

A highlight was the delivery of seven-day services on Dandenong routes 802 and 804, he said.

“This means that all bus routes to major destinations like Dandenong Hospital, Oasis Leisure Centre, Monash University and Chadstone and through residential areas like Dandenong North will run seven days”.

Mr Parker didn’t have specific details on upgrading and extending Casey routes into Botanic Ridge, Casey Fields, Clyde, Junction Village and Devon Meadows.

“Indeed they may not exist, or if they do, would only be in draft form.”

They would be part of a larger Casey bus-network review funded by developer charges, Mr Parker said.

“This will be a major piece of work involving many routes in the Cranbourne area. They will likely be going to public consultation.”

Meanwhile the Berwick-Pakenham service appears to gain an extra evening service, Mr Parker said.

Mr Parker said a major omission was not upgrading an “inadequate” weekend service from Berwick to Hampton.

“I would have liked to have seen a weekend upgrade for Route 828 (Berwick - Hampton) as a major bus route linking major destinations

in the south-east including Fountain Gate, Dandenong, Parkmore and Southland.

“The current weekend service is every 40 minutes on Saturdays or 60 minutes on Sundays, which is inadequate.

$1.04 billion slated for major road repairs across the state

By Carmela Mendoza

The upcoming Victorian Budget 2026/27 is set to include a $1.04 billion blitz on the repair of major roads across Victoria and a cleanup of Monash and Western Port freeways.

According to the state government, this sets the record as the biggest roads blitz for the state with 70 per cent of funds going to regional Victoria.

“This is the biggest roads blitz in the state’s history, and most of that money is going to regional Victoria.” Premier Jacinta Allan said.

However, opposition Roads and Roads Safety spokesperson Danny O’Brien has some concerns over this promise.

“On the eve of an election Labor again says they’re going to fix our roads when the media releases of the last decade haven’t delivered – indeed our roads are still getting worse.” he said.

“Our roads are goat tracks, and we’ve got a government that’s throwing shekels at them and expecting Victorians to believe they’re all going be fixed.”

The package includes $36.9 million to help clean up 10 of the state’s busiest freeways through rubbish and graffiti removal, mowing and more. This includes the Monash and South Gippsland freeways.

The State government says the overall blitz will include fixing arterial roads, maintaining bridges and traffic lights, emergency roadworks, roadside mowing and sign replacements.

Road and Road Safety Mininster Ros Spence

a $1 billion-

said that they’re

“A Route 828 upgrade has the backing of local councils including Casey and Kingston.”

On his blog, Mr Parker added that the service upgrades - unlike reduced fares - will make “public transport a practical option for

more trips”.

“That’s important because, as I’ve often said, the most expensive trips are those that cannot reasonably be made by public transport.”

Botanic Ridge dad jailed following clan-lab raid

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

A Botanic Ridge father-of-two has been jailed for at least eight years after police seized a huge quantity of meth from his home clan lab.

Anthony Keys, 39, pleaded guilty at the Victorian County Court to offences including trafficking a large commercial quantity of methylamphetamine.

He also pled to possessing pre-cursor chemicals, dealing with proceeds of crime and illegally possessing a Wi-Fi/radio navigation satellite-jamming device and imitation firearms.

During a raid on 31 October 2023, police foundthe“sophisticated”clanlabinKeys’s shed.

They seized 17.1 kilograms of meth – of between 14 to 86 per cent purity. It was in the process of recrystallising – which was the final step of its manufacture.

It was not in dispute that Keys was the manufacturer of what was more than 22 times the large-commercial trafficking threshold, sentencing judge Daniel Holding said.

His home’s CCTV showed no one other than Keys going to and from the shed on a near-daily basis.

His lab was the subject of “significant investment” , Judge Holding noted.

For the previous two years, Keys bought an array of scientific equipment for his lab, using false names at times.

Among its contents were two 100-litre glass

reaction vessels with mechanical stirrers, estimated to be $20,000 in value. One was stored in a crate.

A pre-cursor chemical – 5.6 kilograms of ammonia - was also seized.

Inside the house, police found $67,970 in cash, 65 gemstones worth $290,454, 297 gemstones of uncertain value and two ‘gel-blaster’ imitation guns, as well as smaller quantities of meth and MDMA.

The satellite jamming device was seized from Keys’s van.

Judge Holding noted Keys’s capacity for rehabilitation, as shown by his compliance on bail.

Soon after his arrest, Keys was bailed on the CISP program on a $400,000 surety, in which he received drug-and-alcohol and ADHD treatment.

For the following two years, he was abstinent from drugs with no relapses. He worked as a builder and carpenter.

On the other hand, Judge Holding noted the serious offending as well as meth’s “tremendous damage” to society. There was a need to deter other would-be traffickers.

For the trafficking charge, Keys faced a standard sentence of 16 years, and maximum of life imprisonment.

His defence lawyer conceded a double-figure jail term was in range.

Judge Holding jailed Keys for 13 years and 10 months, with an eight-year non-parole period.

Mayor turned Lib candidate

By Corey Everitt

Bass Coast Mayor Rochelle Halstead will resign from leadership of the council as she has been selected as the Liberal Party’s candidate for the seat of Bass, entering the contest for one of the most marginal electorates in Victoria.

The local branch has endorsed Mayor Halstead and Liberal headquarters confirmed the preselection result on Friday 24 April.

The small business owner has been a councillor since 2020 and is currently serving her first term as mayor of Bass Coast.

“I’ve lived, worked and raised my family in Bass, and this community is part of who I am,” Rochelle Halstead said in a statement.

“It’s where I built my business, where I’ve volunteered, and where I’ve dedicated years of service in local government.”

Twenty years ago, she was elected to a single term as a councillor at Frankston City Council and served as mayor in 2005–06.

Much of her career has involved working as an

She has also worked in administration and education, and recently moved on from her Tooradin business, Tides

Halstead has notified Bass Coast that she will stand down from her role as Mayor and continue as a councillor as she campaigns through to November.

“I’m proud of what I’ve achieved in local government and small business, and I’m ready to bring that experience to the next level,” she said.

“My priorities are reducing crime, tackling the cost of living, addressing coastal erosion along our shoreline, and fixing and upgrading local roads across the Bass electorate.”

Halstead will contest the seat against Labor’s Chris Buckingham, who is seeking to retain the electorate following the departure of current MP Jordan Crugnale after this term.

Bass is one of the most marginal seats in Victoria, with Labor winning the two-party-preferred count by around 200 votes in 2022.

The Greens have also selected a candidate for Bass, Sophie Thorn.

New independent group Voices for Bass has declared their intention to contest the seat, but has not yet selected a candidate.

Cranbourne MP steps into secretary role amid reshuffle

By Jensy Callimootoo

Cranbourne’s local MP Pauline Richards, has been appointed as Parliamentary Secretary to the Premier.

The appointment was announced last week by Premier Jacinta Allan as part of a broader restructure of parliamentary secretaries aimed at bringing “new energy and new solutions” to government priorities.

First elected in 2018 as the Member for Cranbourne, Richards has become a familiar figure across the rapidly growing southeast corridor in Casey.

She has previously served as Government Whip in the lower house, a role that requires

close coordination with colleagues across the Labor caucus.

In a social media post following the announcement by the Premier, Richards said being able to work closer to the state-leader is a “privilege” that she “will never take for granted”

“Being the Whip in the Legislative Assembly has been an extraordinary gift , working with Belinda Wilson MP and the Parliament of Victoria team has been a particular highlight of the role - and I’m so grateful for the support I’ve been shown,” she said.

“I’m really looking forward to this next chapter and to continuing to do everything I can to serve the Cranbourne community I love.”

Her elevation to Parliamentary Secretary

places her in a position of greater influence, working closely with the Premier on key policy areas and helping to drive the government’s agenda.

Typically, parliamentary secretaries support ministers and the Premier with their portfolio responsibilities, acting as a crucial link between departments, parliament, and the community.

For Cranbourne residents, the appointment signals a stronger connection to decision-making at the highest level of state government.

As one of Melbourne’s fastest-growing areas, the Cranbourne region faces ongoing challenges around infrastructure, transport, schools and health services.

Richards has built her local profile around

these concerns, regularly highlighting the need for investment to keep pace with population growth.

Her new role is expected to give her greater capacity to advocate for local priorities within government processes.

The reshuffle also comes at a strategic time for the current Victorian Government, as it prepares for the next election cycle.

Inapublicstatement,PremierAllandescribed the new appointments as part of a “strong, united Labor team” focused on making life “easier, safer and more affordable” for Victorians.

For Richards, the role represents both recognition of her work to date and an opportunity to deliver more for her community.

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A moment of remembrance

In the quiet, solemn hours of early Saturday morning, as the first light of dawn gently broke over the region and the sounds of Australia awakening filled the air, the community of Casey came together in a powerful moment of remembrance.

Thousands of local residents gathered at Bunjil Place, standing side by side in respectful silence, to honour the sacrifices of those who have served the nation.

The Anzac Day Dawn Service, held each year on 25 April, remains one of the most significant and moving traditions in Australia’s national calendar.

It is a time to reflect on the courage, resilience and support of the Australian and New Zealand soldiers who first landed at Gallipoli in 1915, as well as all the men and women who have served in conflicts, peacekeeping missions, and humanitarian efforts since.

Since its earliest commemorations in 1916, Anzac Day has continued to hold deep meaning for generations of Australians.

The dawn service, in particular, symbolises the time of the original Gallipoli landing and offers a space for quiet reflection, gratitude,

and collective memory.

This year’s service in Casey was marked by a strong sense of community spirit and reverence.

Berwick RSL President Pam Phillip addressed the crowd with heartfelt words, acknowledging the enduring legacy of service and sacrifice.

Reverend Elwyn Sparks also spoke, offering a thoughtful reflection and leading those gathered in prayer.

Adding to the emotional resonance of the morning, students from Lysterfield Lake College participated as the choir, their voices carrying through the stillness and contributing to the solemn atmosphere of the occasion.

City of Casey Mayor Stefan Koomen also addressed attendees, describing the event as a “moving service,” and highlighting the significance of seeing thousands of residents come together in unity.

As the sun rose and the ceremony concluded, those in attendance left with a shared sense of reflection and gratitude, reminded of the sacrifices made for the freedoms enjoyed today.

Tales of service and sacrifice

A Casey mother whose son was killed in service in Afghanistan, and an Afghan interpreter who put his and his family’s lives in danger for the Australian Defence Force were among six ambassadors chosen by RSL Victoria to lead the Anzac Day march to the Shrine of Remembrance on Saturday 25 April. They shared their sombre stories with SAHAR FOLADI.

Mother of a brave fallen hero marches on Anzac Day

By Sahar Foladi

Casey resident Jennifer Ward marched on behalf of her son Private Benajmin Ranaudo, who gave his life in service of his country in 2009.

“The first couple of years were very hard. It’s full-on in your face,“ Ms Ward says.

“You’re not only thinking of your son, it’s the others as well.

“The boys were still over there, you’re worried about them coming home.

“You can’t describe losing your son, it’s different to any other pain.”

After 17 years, she says she’s learnt to compose herself especially around Anzac Day.

“Everybody has been through their trials, the things about the march. For most of the men who have been there, it’s touched everybody.

“Somebody would have some family connections somewhere that went to war and didn’t come home.”

Benjamin had a love for the army ever since he was a little boy when he saw an Army recruiting display at the Knox shopping centre, which featured a military tank.

“He was sitting on the tank, and refused to get off. He loved it so much.”

Benjamin enlisted in the Australian Army in May 2006, was first deployed to Townsville, then to East Timor to stabilise the country after civil unrest.

He was finally deployed to Afghanistan. Ms Ward had then let out a sigh of relief that it wasn’t Iraq, thinking that it was more dangerous.

“I remember his biggest worry was losing a limb. I said you are to come back no matter what.

“I remember him saying to me, what happens if I die? I would say we’ll deal with that, because I would try to push that to the back of my mind.”

The day Private Ranaudo was killed, Ms Ward says it was her mothers’ instinct that told her something was wrong.

“It was about 10am. I was packing to take my youngest daughter to netball.

“I remember thinking and feeling guilty because I hadn’t sent a care package. It was in my mind even from the minute I got up, thinking I hope he was okay, because you never know.

“The feeling wasn’t light. I remember thinking, I wish I could ring him.

“In our last conversation, he said he might have to ring late. He said, I don’t know when we’ll get back.”

The taskforce was due to take part in a “cordon and search” operation in an area where it

was believed a Taliban bomb-making facility was located.

The Australians were part of an outer cordon protecting Afghan National Army troops undertaking a search of the area.

Benjamin was standing behind his mate Private Paul Warren at a machine gun post, in the same position for more than two hours.

As Private Warren shifted his weight, he accidentally detonated a hidden anti-personnel mine which triggered hidden mortars underneath Private Ranaudo, instantly killing him.

He was the 11th Australian soldier to die in Afghanistan.

His body was returned to Australia where he was buried at Springvale Botanical Cemetery.

His funeral was attended by family and friends and the then-Prime Minister Kevin Rudd who described Private Ranaudo as an Australian hero.

Private Warren lost a leg to the blast and would need at least 16 surgeries to survive. He learnt to walk again with the help of a prosthetic leg.

Ms Ward met with Private Warren, in an emotional meeting.

The taskforce was to reconstruct the country and mentor the Afghan National Army in the Uruzgan Province with the aim of rebuilding infrastructure and security in the country ravaged by war.

Private Benjamin called home regularly, mainly in the afternoon on weekends and expressed his plans to marry his girlfriend Haylee McCarthy once he was home

“They don’t really talk about what’s going on. He said there are a lot of kids he feels sorry for because they don’t have what we have here. But they are so happy, he said he wants to play soccer with them all the time.

“He said, Mum, it’s such a shame, it’s just so beautiful. If there wasn’t a war here, this place would be very pretty.

“He said to me it’s nice and calm outside the war zone.

“He said, I learnt few words, the main thing is, ‘stop’ . He was picking it up pretty easily, he said we need interpreters because there’s so many different dialects.”

On 25 April, Ms Ward was joined at the front of the march by an Afghan interpreter who served the Australian Army. Consequently, his house was bombed by the Taliban. His father-in-law also took a bullet for Australia and his 22-year-old brother, who was a police officer and the same age as Benjamin, was killed by the Taliban.

Interpreter remembers friends lost in combat

By Sahar Foladi

Sheraz Ahmadi, of Hallam, worked with senior Australian Defence Force personnel in Kabul as an interpreter and cultural advisor.

He was described as “dedicated to his job” by then-Major Angus McFarlane, who is now a Lieutenant Colonel.

This was the first time a non-ADF member led the march to the Shrine, a recognition for the crucial role played by Afghan interpreters.

Mr Ahmadi also represents the Afghan Locally Engaged Employee (LEE) Association in Melbourne’s south east. He is the vice-president of the board, leading more than 100 members of Afghan interpreters who served the ADF.

“It reminds me of the friends I lost in combat, not only interpreters but also army personnel,” he says of the march.

“For me, it will be one of the best memories of my life to be an Ambassador for Anzac Day.

“I am doing it on behalf of all the interpreters and local staff who served with the Australians. We lost a lot of people, and until now no-one remembers them.”

He marched as one of the six ambassadors chosen by Victoria RSL, alongside veterans from the Army, Air Force and Navy as well as Casey mother Jennifer Ward, whose son was killed while serving in the ADF in Afghanistan.

Mr Ahmadi does so, in the memory of other fellow interpreters who did not survive, and the remaining Afghan interpreters and their families left behind.

“It was very dangerous to travel to our office, which was inside Kabul Airport,. Every single day we expected an attack.

“When I worked for the Australians, I had to travel from the suburbs and into the American embassy to the Kabul Garrison command centre.

“You did not know who the ordinary people were and who were the terrorists.

“Taliban had their intelligence too. They usually targeted people and followed people working with government, especially with foreign forces like ADF.

“They would just shoot you, they would use explosives, magnetic IED (attached to vehicles), car bombs.”

The risk of his work was proven when Mr Ahmadi visited his father-in-law at his fabric shop in Nangarhar.

Mr Ahmadi says he heard a loud bang and

his father-in-law dropped to the ground. It was a bullet meant for Mr Ahmadi.

The bullet entered the back of his father-inlaw’s neck and came out through his jaw. Miraculously, he survived.

His 22-year-old brother, a police officer in Afghanistan, Ferdows Ahmadi was also killed by the Taliban, just two months after his wedding.

Also, the Taliban directly targeted Mr Ahmadi’s house with a bomb, which injured his father.

“We lived together, it could have been his role in the Afghan Government or my career affected him.

“Everyone was sad but we couldn’t do anything and I had to take care of my parents.”

Lieutenant Colonel Macfarlane recalls that “I would call (Mr Ahmadi) out of hours regarding some matters and would have to speak to him in Pashtun until he was in a safe place“.

“If he was in a taxi and spoke in English, it could present a threat to his life.“

Mr Ahmadi worked with the US special forces from 2010 prior to taking a role with the Australian Defence Force in 2016.

His visa application to Australia was accepted in May 2019, initially landing in Adelaide but made the move to Melbourne to join its well-established Afghan community.

Five of his siblings arrived in the country just five months ago but Mr Ahmadi has grave concerns for his remaining brother and his family stuck in Iran for the past two years, especially given the war.

“It’s very tough conditions at this moment especially for Afghans without visas, and my brother is one of them.

“Since the conflict between Iran and Israel, they have captured a lot of Afghans without visas. They made an excuse that they are foreign spies.”

A medical student back in Kabul, Mr Ahmadi aspired to study biomedical science, but with a family, and already being 30 years old, he started an apprenticeship in plumbing.

He is now a licensed plumber with his own business.

In his work with Afghan LEE Association, he advocates for the Australian Government to prioritise visa applications of Afghan interpreters, their family members and extended family members in Afghanistan or in other third-world countries.

The association also provides resettlement services, acting as a directory to help families navigate the systems better.

We will remember them...

The sun shone brightly over Berwick on Saturday, setting a fitting scene for the town’s Anzac Day commemorations. Hundreds lined High Street, which was already bustling with anticipation, as the annual march made its way through the heart of the community. Spectators watched in solemn reflection as the Australian Great War Association fired ceremonial blanks during the service. Veterans, travelling in historic army vehicles, were warmly received as they made their way to the Berwick Cenotaph, where the ceremony continued in honour of those who served.

Hundreds gather for dawn service

By Carmela Mendoza

Hampton Park Progress Association hosted its Anzac Day Dawn service with several hundred guests attending.

Officials from all levels of government observed the memorial service including Narre Warren South state MP Gary Maas, Holt federal MP Cassandra Fernando and Casey councillors Lynette Pereira and Shane Taylor.

The dawn service included the launch of a new ANZAC-inspired art exhibition, led by the Hampton Park Artist Group.

Damien Rosario, of Hampton Park Progress Association, was the Master of Ceremonies.

“Each year, we seek to deepen our commitment to the spirit of ANZAC,” he said.

“Through art, photography, history and personal relics, the spirit of ANZAC becomes deeply personal.

“This is a living tribute shaped by our community, sustained by care, and carried forward so that future generations may not only remember, but feel compelled to contribute and keep the legacy alive.“

Hampton Park Progress Association volunteers and dignitaries Damien Rosario, Graham Trapnell, Sanja Dinek, Jo-Ann Fitzgerald, Tania Sacco, Zohra Hasib, MP Cassandra Fernando, Rev. Argho Biswas, Margaret Hamilton, Cr Lynette Pereira, Keith Grant, Natalie Pollard, Russell Barnes, Cr Shane Taylor, Anthony Hanna JP, MP

and

War relic found in an op-shop

By Jensy Callimootoo

A historical WWII artifact found in a Clyde North op-shop has been put up for display at the Shrine of Remembrance.

The Australian flag containing up to 28 signatures believed to belong to soldiers from the 2/2nd Field Regiment during World War II was discovered at a Clyde North Salvos in November of 2025.

It will now be displayed at the Shrine of Remebrance in Melbourne as part of its ‘SPARTANS & ANZACS’ Exhibition which opened on 15 April.

The relic was unearthed by the store’s staff member, Kylie Baker who later sought the assistance of her parents Denis Holland and Sue Holland, longtime Springvale RSL members.

The investigation led to Malcom Fallon, president of a website titled 2/2nd Field Regiment Association.

Citing the images of the flag that Denis and Sue had sent him, Fallon began his own research.

The president looked into each name that was signed on the flag, many began with ‘VX’, meaning most enlisted in Victoria.

Cross referencing each name through the National archives, he was able to confirm their deployment history, indicating that the relic was likely signed in 1940 or 1941 — making the flag nearly 85 years old.

On Saturday 25 April, as thousands of Victorians visited the Shrine to commemorate Anzac Day, Fallon told Star News that being able to see the flag on display was “very special”.

“I can say there were quite a few tears and quite a bit of nostalgia associated with it all,” he said.

The ‘SPARTAN & ANZACS’ Exhibition at the Shrine of Remembrance will be open to the public until April 2027.

“It was amazing to be honest with you and we will be forever grateful to whoever dropped that flag in instead of it just being thrown in a rubbish bin and being lost forever.”

“For it to come up now is just amazing, we’re just thrilled with everything that’s transpired and how it’s all worked out.”

And while the jury’s still out on the original owner and donator; the flag and its extensive history will now be up for display at the Shrine for the next 12 months until April 2027.

Agnes’s legend forever inspires

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

After a three-year grass-roots campaign, the late and great Agnes O’Brien’s name and deeds will live large at the Doveton playground where she helped so many.

A sign proclaiming Agnes O’Brien Reserve and describing her life was unveiled by Casey Council on Thursday 23 April.

Among the gathering were her proud children, grandchildren and friends who attested to her huge-hearted care for others.

For decades, Agnes was widely admired for embodying the spirit of Doveton.

Many kids called her ‘Nanna’ , some ‘Aggie’ and others ‘Saint Agnes’

The single mother-of-four was credited for putting countless kids on the right path, bringing them off the streets and into her home and sport clubs.

Her son Steve O’Brien said she had lived an incredible life.

“Her legacy will live on forever through her family, through this park and through the people who have been a part of her life,” he said.

“She never owned anything, never wanted anything.

“All she wanted was for her kids to be the best.”

Her daughter Jackie Horbath said her humble mother would have been taken aback by this honour.

“She would never look for recognition. She’d think it was a bit of a fuss about nothing.”

The recognition rights a historical wrong – in that none of Doveton’s parks and reserves had been named after Doveton residents.

And just as starkly, none were named after women.

The idea began at Steve’s 50th birthday a few years ago.

Ryan and Didi Wilson at first wanted to install a plaque at their Doveton Boxing Club, but decided this wasn’t enough to do justice to Agnes.

Instead, the push began to adorn a then-nameless park in Autumn Place with Agnes O’Brien’s name.

“It was where mum did so much work for the community. She saved lives in this park,” Steve says. He told the Wilsons that “this (sign) wouldn’t be possible without your idea”

“It’s not just your idea but the work you two guys do at your Doveton Boxing Club that has continued mum’s legacy.

“It’s about the community and helping kids be the best they can be.”

Casey mayor Stefan Koomen as the thenchair of Doveton-Eumemmerring Township Association was one of many backers of the campaign that began in 2023.

He said he’d like to see more of Casey’s local heroes celebrated on such storyboards.

“Doveton has changed a lot over the years, but the stories, families and community leaders of the past deserve to be recognised,” Cr Koomen said.

“Agnes devoted herself to supporting young people, creating opportunities, and ensuring no child ever felt left behind.

“She made a difference in the lives of countless Doveton locals, and her kindness and generosity have left a legacy that deserves to be honoured and remembered.”

In an overwhelming response, more than 40 submissions to Casey favoured naming the park after Agnes. Just one suggested instead a different Doveton identity.

Born in Portafairy just outside Belfast in Ireland, Agnes was one of 11 children.

In her teens, she already showed her immense care for people and trained as a mothercraft nurse - a calling that her granddaughter Keely is now also following.

At 18, she and her sister took a boat out to Australia for a new life.

After an arduous three-month journey, her

To Hellfire and back

Former Star News Group journalist Callan Date was chosen to deliver an address, on behalf of the Department of Veterans’ Affairs,atHellfirePassinThailandonAnzac Day. He agreed to reflect on that personal and emotional journey for Star News.

“I am here today to remember those that experienced captivity on the Burma-Thailand railway. I am the grandson of one of the prisoners. My grandfather was Valentine William Lowrie.”

I was overcome with emotion as I delivered those words in the warm pre-dawn air of the Thai jungle on Saturday.

As first light began to pierce the darkness of Hellfire Pass, a notorious 75 metre long cutting along the railway, you could begin to see the faces of the people who had gathered to commemorate Anzac Day at this solemn location.

Ten months earlier I had applied for a volunteer opportunity to join the Department of Veterans’ Affairs as part of their Anzac Day Delivery Team. Travelling to Thailand, I knew about the suffering faced by so many prisoners of war (POWs) during World War II. But unaware how emotional this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity would be.

With more than 1200 people silently watching on, the temperature approaching a sticky 30c degrees at 5am and flames lightning the way through the limestone and quartz cutting, my mind was drawn to the horrors that took place at this very spot 83 years ago.

POWs and labourers experienced brutality, starvation, disease, and exhaustion to complete the railway in one year between October 1942andOctober1943.Manythousandsdied. Pa, as his nine grandchildren called him, survived. He enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force on 16 January 1941 and served in the 2/10 Ordnance Field Park which was part of 8th Division, before being captured in Singapore. He was 22 years old when he was allocated to ‘D’ Force on the railway, whereunder brutal conditions he mainly performed the role of cutting bamboo cane. Clearing a path for the railway to follow.

If you visit Hellfire Pass, about four hours’ drive north-west of Bangkok, you can walk along a 2.6km section of the railway.

An audio guide details key locations, highlighting the unthinkable cruelty of the Imperial Japanese Army, but also the POW mateship and heroic efforts to survive.

sister decided to return home as soon as they reached Sydney’s docks.

But Agnes stayed, married, later left her husband with her four kids and settled in a commission house in Doveton in 1976.

Agnes ran the region’s first Vic Kick Australian Rules juniors program, volunteering tirelessly at Doveton’s football clubs.

While on a single mum’s pension, she would often look after up to six other kids while their parents worked.

Agnes was a big believer in sport to keep kids out of trouble. Any kids up to no good would be encouraged to play.

At the footy club, she did it all and often gave up her weekends. Team manager, canteen worker, Vic Kick organizer, vice-president.

Ryan Wilson, who has followed in Agnes’s footsteps at the boxing club, says he hopes her example will inspire many others.

“She just would just stop and talk to people. It was old-school courtesy.

“In those days, if kids played up, it would get back to the parents – now we don’t know what they’re getting up to.

“We should have more people caring and involved in the community.

“Hopefully this park will inspire young people to be kind and nice to people.”

His partner Didi Wilson added: “Even if you’ve got nothing, it’s OK to smile and be nice. To be caring to others.”

Reading about the suffering always made me angry and confused. But being there, following in the footsteps of the POWs, and reflecting on my grandfather’s story, my anger had been overtaken. I was now in awe of the courage, strength, and selflessness shown. The will to survive. The bravery. How the Australians stuck together and rallied around their injured, sick and dying mates.

Pa rarely spoke about his time as a POW, but when he did, he spoke of the importance of looking after one another. What we now call mateship was, in his words, what kept him alive during the most horrific period of his life. When Pa returned home to Australia, that mateship found new life each Anzac Day.

He would walk a little taller as he joined his former POW mates and march to the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne, carrying with him the memory of those who never made it home.

It now falls on us to remember, to honour, and to ensure that what was endured here is never forgotten. Lest we forget.

Callan Date delivered the Call to Remembrance on behalf of veterans’ family members at the Anzac Day Dawn Service at Hellfire Pass in Thailand. You can complete a virtual tour of Hellfire Pass via a new DVA website at hellfirepass.dva.gov.au

A full weekend of activities

Celebrate Mum with a full weekend of special activities at St Germain Central.

Mother’s Day Card Craft

Saturday 9th May, 10am–2pm

Get creative and design a heartfelt card just for Mum at our fun craft station. A perfect way for

little ones (and big kids too!) to add a personal, meaningful touch she’ll truly treasure. Free activity, no bookings required.

Mother’s Day Florist Cart

Saturday 9th May, 10am–2pm

Pick up a beautiful bloom for Mum from our florist cart and make her day extra special. Choose from a selection of fresh flowers, perfect for sur-

prising Mum or adding to your celebrations at home. $40 proof of purchase required.

Mother’s Day Family Photos

Sunday 10th May,| 10am–2pm

Capture a special moment together with a professional family photo session. Receive both digital and printed branded keepsakes to treasure for years to come. It’s the perfect way to mark the occasion and create lasting memories. Sign up to our e-newsletter to receive your photos.

Bring the whole family along and enjoy a weekend full of thoughtful touches, fun activities, and memorable moments designed to celebrate all the wonderful mums in our community. At St Germain Central, we’re proud to continue supporting our local community by creating engaging, family-friendly events that bring people together and add a little extra joy to special occasions like this.

We look forward to celebrating with you at St Germain Central.

Heavy vehicle crackdown with over 60 offences

Over 60 heavy vehicles in a single day were intercepted by Casey police and other core bodies as part of a targeted operation to make roads safer.

Dubbed Operation Hauler, the mission focused on heavy vehicle non-compliance as well as driving behaviours that may contribute to road trauma, prompted by a spike in heavy vehicle-related collisions over the past year.

On Thursday 26 March, a total of 65 heavy vehicles were intercepted, with all drivers undergoing preliminary breath tests.

All vehicles also underwent oral fluid tests and safety inspections.

The operation involved Casey Highway Patrol, Victoria Police Heavy Vehicle and the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator, with a particular focus on arterial roads and industrial estates.

The mission, which will be ongoing over the next months, saw over 50 offences detected including several with alleged unlicensed driving, unroadworthy vehicles and fatigue breaches.

Here’s a full list of offences:

■27 Defect Notices Issued for Unsafe/Unroadworthy Vehicles

■10 Insecure Loads

■2 Unlicensed

■5

■4

Drug trafficker jailed following police sting

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

A Cranbourne drug trafficker caught selling nearly $180,000 of cocaine in a South East police sting in 2023 has been jailed for up to a decade.

Munzar Abaker, now 27, pleaded guilty at the Victorian County Court to two charges of trafficking cocaine – including trafficking in a large commercial quantity.

Police covert operatives communicated with Abaker via an encrypted message app Signal, arranging to buy a total of 855 grams over six transactions in May-August 2023.

They met in an array of locations, including Noble Park Aquatic Centre car park, a residential street in Lyndhurst, Fountain Gate shopping centre, and Casey Recreation and Aquatic Centre.

Abaker told an operative that his associates in Lebanon and Colombia had access to large amounts of cocaine. He also claimed he could access a large amount of heroin.

He was paid $179,250 by undercover cops, including three transactions of $50,000 or more for quarter-kilos. A large amount of that sum has never been recovered.

As part of the large commercial trafficking charge, Abaker also arranged two-kilo and three-kilo deals that didn’t eventuate.

Police operatives later arranged to meet him at Chadstone shopping centre to buy a kilo for $165,000, where he was arrested on 12 September.

His associate was arrested in the lobby of the nearby Sofitel Hotel with a bag of about 1 kilogram of cocaine, a loaded Glock semi-automatic gun, a ballistic vest, cash and two phones.

That day, police raided Abaker’s home, seizing his Mercedes as well as $2000 from under

County Court of Victoria. (Cam Lucadou-Wells: 231934)

his bed,

Sentencing judge Daniel Holding inferred that Abaker was a “trusted” person within a high-level drug-supply syndicate.

“While the evidence does not disclose what financial reward you were receiving, your role was well and truly above that of a courier.

“You performed a role that enabled those closer to the source of supply to remain undetected. The role you performed is essential and promotes this illicit trade.”

There was a “level of sophistication” including encrypted messaging, associates, sending photos of drugs, receiving photos of cash, that belied a “serious criminality”.

Judge Holding also noted that four of the five kilograms of cocaine under the large commercial charge were not transacted.

However he said “it could not realistically be argued that you were not making genuine offers”.

Seagull deaths likely due to avian botulism

By Jensy Callimootoo

Increased sightings of deceased seagulls around Narre Warren has prompted community concern, with avian botulism likely to blame, says Wildlife Victoria.

Abaker’s disadvantaged childhood, guilty plea, youth and family support were mitigating factors.

Born in “war-torn Sudan”, Abaker was reportedly exposed to extreme violence and trauma as a child, including witnessing torture and beheadings, being beaten to near death and coercing into joining a rebel armed group.

He migrated to Melbourne as a 12-year-old with limited English skills and disrupted education.

Growing up in Doveton and Dandenong South, he found school in Australia challenging, and used drugs at a young age.

A psychologist reported that Abaker had complex PTSD, major depression and anti-social personality traits. His “significant” short criminal history included a two-and-a-half-year stint in a Youth Justice Centre for armed robbery, trafficking, handling stolen goods and obtaining property by deception.

While in remand, Abaker had engaged in regular psychological counselling, expressed remorse and a desire to stay sober and contribute to society.

His “reasonable” rehabilitation prospects justified a shorter non-parole period, Justice Holding said.

Abaker pleaded guilty after a sentence indication of up to 10 years 3 months in jail – with a non-parole period of six years and three months.

Judge Holding refused an application for Abaker to repay the $179,250 from police operatives.

The judge said there was no evidence that Abaker had the means to make the payments after his release, and such a debt would impede his hopes of rebuilding his life.

Many have encountered the sick or deceased birds around Max Pawsey Reserve, Fountain Gate Shopping Centre and Bunjil Place — this can be due to several bodies of water near the area or within housing estates.

According to Wildlife Victoria, there has been a significant increase in suspected cases of the paralytic disease this year, reporting a 258 per cent spike compared to the previous year.

Typically, warm conditions in addition to shallow and stagnant waterways can produce favourable conditions for the disease, which is then consumed by the waterbirds.

A spokesperson from Wildlife Victoria said that ongoing maintenance to waterways, including constructing artificial channels of water around housing estates can help to alleviate the problem.

This would include ensuring the water is clean by imitating natural flowing water rather than leaving it as a stagnant waterbody.

The disease can present as paralysis in the affected bird, with impacts to their wings, ability to walk, fly and poor posture while standing.

While rehabilitation is possible under certain conditions, if left untreated, this can lead to progressive muscular weakness and respiratory arrest and death.

While the disease does not pose a human risk, Wildlife Victoria recommends members of the public do not try to handle or relocate animals that are suspected to have contracted avian botulism.

In late February 2026, sightings of deceased seagulls had been reported to the Casey Council which they arranged for collection but it says there have been no updates regarding the matter.

The Wildlife Victoria spokesperson said that they encourage all members of the community who encounter wild birds that exhibit avian botulism symptoms to report them to its 24/7 Response Service on 03 8400 7300.

Locals can also report it to the council or directly to Agriculture Victoria on 1800 675 888.

‘Silence is not an option’

By Afraa Kori

Australia’s Minister for Multicultural Affairs and International Development, Dr Anne Aly MP, has issued a stark warning over Sudan’s worsening humanitarian crisis as the country marks three years of conflict.

In a letter sent to many Sudanese community leaders and organisations across Australia on April 15, Dr Aly said she remains “gravely concerned” by the continued escalation of violence and the ongoing killing of civilians in Sudan.

“Over 11 million people have been displaced. Entire communities have been destroyed. Lives, livelihoods and the futures have been torn apart,” the letter said.

“The crisis is felt not only across Sudan but here in Australia as well. Members of our Sudanese Australian community continue to live with fear, grief and uncertainty for loved ones caught in the conflict.”

Dr Aly confirmed the Australian government has provided $67 million in humanitarian support for the people of Sudan since the conflict began.

This includes $7 million which was announced at the Third International Humanitarian Conference in Berlin on 15 April 2026.

The Minister called for an “immediate ceasefire” so humanitarian aid can flow without obstruction.

“The international community must not look away,” she stressed.

“Civilians including aid workers must be protected, in accordance with international humanitarian law. Silence is not an option.”

Founder of the Centre for Migrant and Refugee Health Inc, Mabor Chadhuol, acknowledged Australia’s humanitarian response, saying it will play a critical role in strengthening resilience and providing much-needed assistance to affected families, both young and old.

“The country has endured profound losses, marked by widespread human suffering, displacement, and political persecution,” Mr Chadhuol said.

Casey-based community leader and advocate Andrew Gai urged the Australian Government to go further, calling for increased humanitarian funding, stronger diplomatic efforts and expanded humanitarian visa pathways.

Mr Gai warned the crisis is often “out of sight, out of mind” in the West, despite being one of the

world’s most devastating conflicts of today.

“The scale of atrocities committed by all parties, alongside the displacement of over 11 million people, highlights the sheer magnitude of this humanitarian disaster,” he added.

He highlighted the direct impact on Sudanese Australians, many of whom have lost loved ones or remain unable to contact relatives.

“For many, this war has meant grief, fear, and ongoing uncertainty,” Mr Gai said.

“This community had already begun healing from past conflicts that forced many to seek ref-

uge in Australia.

“Unfortunately, this war has been a significant setback for the healing journey and harmonious coexistence here in the diaspora.”

He also pointed to broader regional consequences, noting Sudan has historically hosted millions of refugees from neighbouring countries, including South Sudan, Eritrea, Chad, and Libya.

“The instability in Sudan therefore has far-reaching consequences across the region,” Mr Gai said.

“Ultimately, peace in Sudan is not only vital

for its people, it is critical for regional stability.” In the early stages of the conflict, nationally coordinated meetings were held between community leaders and government partners.

Having attended some of these meetings, Mr Gai said they were valuable in keeping communities informed but level of engagement has not been sustained.

He called for continued, meaningful and ongoing engagement with Sudanese community leaders in Australia to help guide both domestic and international responses.

$1.2 million Grices Road Reserve upgrade unveiled

The $1.2 million upgrade at Grices Road Reserve in Clyde North has officially been completed, with new additions to amenities and community spaces.

The pavilion upgrades were prompted by a growing demand of the space, being home to over 880 players from the Berwick Churches Soccer Club and over 310 players from the Berwick Strikers Cricket Club.

The modernised facility now includes two ac-

cessible amenities, four public amenities, three storage rooms and a multi-purpose community space.

There are also additions to the canteen with a new servery and undercover viewing area.

The new development is part of the state’s local infrastructure fund, which provided $20 million to support the development of high-quality, accessible community sports infrastructure.

On top of the state government’s investment,

Casey council also contributed over $300,000 to the project.

Labor MPs Michael Galea and Lee Tarlamis attended the opening ceremony for the new upgrades.

Mr Galea said the new upgrades work to support the community through grassroots sports, which is the “heartbeat of growing communities”

Similarly, Mr Tarlamis championed this notion, stating that recreation facilities does not

only provide bolster physical and mental health, but also brings people together.

Casey’s Mayor, Stefan Koomen said the upgrades was a great investment to Casey’s community and the people who regularly use Grices Road Recreation Reserve.

“By expanding and improving the pavilion, we’ve made the space more accessible, functional and welcoming for players, volunteers, spectators and the wider community,” he said.

Fun run a success

A kaleidoscopic array of colours brightened the Clyde Grammar Campus as part of its annual Colour Fun Run.

The fundraiser raised close to a whopping $18,000 to buy sport equipment for the school’s new gym which will be opening in mid-2026.

It will now go on to fund high-jump equipment and upgrades to the school’s Gaga Pit, a version of handball dubbed ‘Gaga Ball’

Students came prepared with multi-coloured headbands, sunglasses and tutus matching the non-toxic coloured powder used for the fun.

Teachers also brought part of the fun with five brave teachers who were drenched in fluorescent green coloured slime at the end of the day.

James Pretty, Clyde Grammar’s health and PE

teacher says the day was full of fun, laughter and surprises.

“It was fantastic to see not only our students

Free breakfast at university

By Jensy Callimootoo

As more students struggle to keep up with soaring costs, a new university initiative in Berwick will now be delivering free weekly breakfast clubs and low-cost lunches to its students.

Introduced by Federation University, the initiatives are specifically designed to ease financial pressures for students with its five-week pilot programme already supporting around 100 students.

As a response to its strong uptake the program will be extended to the end of the semester in July for all higher education and TAFE students.

Low-cost lunches have also been added to the mix, with $3 healthy meals available.

The new support program will build on the existing Nourishment Nook at the university, which provides free pantry staples and snacks — help-

ing over 2000 students across five campuses.

In addition to providing affordable meals to students, the school’s ‘Styled for Success’ program is also targeting the growing gap driven by the cost of living.

The program supports students by providing free, high quality professional clothing which further removes a financial burden when students are preparing for jobs, interviews, placements and other industry opportunities.

Manager Student Partnerships and Engagement, Max Ryan said these initiatives combined responded directly to the cost of living challenges students were experiencing.

“Everyone is feeling the increased cost of living, but for students juggling study, work and family – it can be even more of a stretch,” she said.

“These initiatives are about easing that pres-

Jailed for $1 million-plus online scam

By Jensy Callimootoo

A Narre Warren man who took part in an online scam costing victims over $1 million has been jailed for more than three years.

Steven Meneghetti, 30 at the time of the crime, was sentenced at Victoria’s County Court on Monday 20 April for his role in a month-long website spoof in 2022.

Sentencing judge Simon Moglia handed Meneghetti three years and one month behind bars with a non-parole period of 20 months.

Between 28 March and 13 April 2022, Meneghetti targeted six people through a spoofed website who were seeking to make large financial investments.

The scam involved fraudulent websites which were created in the name of known investment companies and products that attracted prospective investors.

Once the victim provided their personal details through online forms, other offenders involved in the scam would contact the victims to discuss their proposed investments under different aliases.

They would later lead them through various intermediate steps and provide them with bank account details to which they should forward their funds for alleged investments.

These accounts were connected to One Compass Pty Ltd or CX8 Pty Ltd accounts, which he operated and was the sole operator for.

and teachers, but also so many parents getting involved and running the course,” he says.

“I’m so grateful to be part of such a strong and supportive school community that comes together for events like this.

“And while getting slimed wasn’t exactly at the top of my to-do list, it was definitely worth it to help raise funds for new gym equipment!”

Clyde Grammar Principal Leanne Evans says the Colour Fun Run is one of the year’s most popular and colourful events, enjoyed by all ages.

“It’s fabulous to see our teachers, students and their families have so much fun while bonding over an explosion of colour,” Mrs Evans says.

“Everyone gets into the spirit of the day, which also raises much-needed funds for the school.”

sure, while making sure our students feel supported and connected.”

Chief Learner Experience Officer Samantha Bartlett echoed this sentiment.

“We’re seeing more students impacted by rising living costs, affecting their ability to stay focused on study,” she said.

“By offering simple, practical support like meals and professional clothing, we’re helping remove those barriers and keep students on track.”

Meneghetti’s role in relation to these accounts was to receive the money and to quickly redirect those funds to cryptocurrency accounts.

Five of the victims lost monetary value of over $100,000 while the sixth victim lost monetary value of over $500,000.

Meneghetti pled guilty to recklessly dealing with proceeds of crime, totalling $1,099,095.

He also pled to attempting to obtain property by deception, in which he tried to convince a victim to forward a further $500,019.99 to his One Compass account, From the period of 20 April to 28 April 2022, he told one of the victims that his role was to move money into a legitimate ANZ Papal Court investment account and that Meneghetti himself was dealing with the victim’s funds himself.

“By this stage, you knew the circumstances in which the money was deposited and that you were dealing with proceeds of crime,” Judge Moglia said.

Meneghetti also pleaded guilty to knowingly dealing with proceeds of crime, totalling $302,151.99 from four further victims whose investment funds were deposited into accounts Meneghetti controlled.

None of the victims has recovered the money they lost.

While Meneghetti only directly spoke to one victim, “or having knowledge of their circumstances” , the judge said the victims’ statements indicate “the significance of the quantum of the deposits made and the effect on their lives the loss of that money has had”

Following Meneghetti’s arrest in August 2022, he told police that he was talked into participating in the scam and felt pressured to continue.

He was also charged for the possession and cultivation of cannabis, adding three months to his sentence.

According to Judge Moglia, the offender allegedly saw “about $200,000” in his “personal accounts that were not transferred on”

“Given the difficulty of investigating such scams and the harm they cause to members of the community, any sentence imposed must send a message to others motivated to make quick money at the expense of others,” the judge said.

“Such a sentence must make clear the community’s denunciation of your dishonesty.

“It must also reflect just and proportionate punishment of you personally.”

Active Autumn

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

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

Coffee and conversation

Pop-up cafe - share your ideas for Casey community facilities and receive a free coffee voucher.

• Saturday 2 May 9am-11am at Banjo Paterson Reserve, Lynbrook; free event. Bookings: trybooking.com/DKXSD

Detox Your Home

Free drop-off for household chemicals such as bleach, pesticides, weed killers and cleaning products, which should never be put in your rubbish bins or poured down the drain.

• Saturday 2 May 9am3pm at Chisholm Tafe, 2 New Holland Drive, Cranbourne East. Bookings required: eventbrite.com.au/e/detox-your-homecranbourne-tickets-1983835063077?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utmmedium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utmsource=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl

Car boot sale

Turn your car boot into a mini-market stall for preloved items at this Pinoy Casey Community Inc (PCCI) fundraiser. Now accepting stallholders.

• Sunday 3 May 10am-4pm at 4/260-276 Abbotts Road, Dandenong South; free visitor entry. Stall bookings: Josiah/Kim, 0468 884 003 or pinoycaseycommunity@gmail.com

Ageing Well at Home Expo

For older adults, families, and caregivers. Explore smart solutions for living well at home - with stalls and expert presentations on assistive technology, social connection, aged care, health and wellness, and in-home services. Morning tea, door prizes.

• Tuesday 5 May 10am-12.30pm at Bunjil Place; free event. Register at tickets.bunjilplace.com.au/ overview/11198

Diversity and Inclusion Workshop

Explore how diversity and inclusion can strengthen community groups. Learn the value of inclusive

practices, how to recognise different types of bias and simple strategies to create positive change.

• Tuesday 5 May 6pm-8pm at Bunjil Place, Boon Wurrung and Wurundjeri room; free event. Register at forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.asp

x?id=QimgRFtOCkKLxPYLkSgfLgG35tGJyC1Piboh yteL0KZUMlAwSEU3RkRQUzZLTENUMDBGQ0pC OVAwRy4u&route=shorturl

Berwick Mechanics Institute talk

A talk on The Social History of Mechanics Institutes will be presented by Heather Arnold, a history enthusiast and former local-history librarian. Heather will speak about the 180-plus years of mechanics institutes -  in buildings from the humble to the splendid. Light refreshments to follow.

• Wednesday 6 May 2pm-4pm, 15 High Street, Berwick.

Introduction to Dog Behaviour

RSPCA Victoria offers a free masterclass in dog behaviour and body language.

• Thursday 7 May 6pm-7pm at Clyde Public Hall, 30 Railway Road, Clyde. Bookings: trybooking. com/events/landing/1551216

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 9 May 8am-12pm at Old Cheese Factory, Homestead Road, Berwick.

Come and try Lawn Bowls

Suitable for all ages, however children need to be accompanied by an adult. Friendly members to assist all participants. Flat-soled shoes or barefeet required on the playing surfaces. Refreshments available to purchase.

• Thursday 30 April 5pm-6.30pm at Narre Warren Bowls Club, 1 Majid Drive, Narre Warren; free event. Bookings: trybooking.com/ DKMKQ

Saathi Yoga

Celebrate Neighbourhood House Week with a free preview of the Yoga Saathi program at Lynbrook Community Centre.

• Tuesday 12 May 4pm-5pm at 2 Harris Street, Lynbrook; free event.

Follow Your Waste Tour

Hop on the bus and follow your waste from Valoriza to Stevenson’s Road closed landfill, Veolia and Cleanaway Hallam Education Centre. Fully catered. Please note that this tour may include stairs, uneven ground, potentially slippery surfaces and indoor and outdoor venues. For ages 16-plus.

• Thursday 14 May 9am-4.30pm at Bunjil Place, Narre Warren; free event. Bookings: events.humanitix.com/follow-your-waste-tour-1-2026-cityof-casey

Forest by Polyglot Theatre

A new immersive show for children 4-10 and their families to explore their connection to forests.

• Saturday 16 May and Sunday 17 May 10.30am, 1pm and 3pm at Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne; $15/$15. Bookings essential at rbg.vic.gov.au/cranbourne-gardens/whats-oncranbourne/forest-by-polyglot-theatre/ Gardening Together

For all dads and grandfathers - bring your children and grandchildren (aged 3-6 years) for a morning of digging, planting, playing and getting dirty. Grow vegetables to eat, learn about insects, and have fun in the kids’ play garden. Please bring hats,

sunscreen and water bottles. Gardening tools and resources provided.

• Saturday 16 May 10am-11.30am at Old Cheese Factory community gardens, 34 Homestead Road, Berwick. Bookings: trybooking.com/ events/landing/1528450?

Pancake Night

Clyde North Dad Squad invites dads, grandfathers and father figures to bring your children for free pancakes and fun. Most dietary requirements can be catered.

• Tuesday 19 May 7pm-8pm at Orana Community Place, 1 Fresco Place, Clyde North; free event. Bookings: https://www.trybooking.com/DLFTN Biodiversity Day at Myuna Farm Come and celebrate International Day for Biodiversity. A train ride to wetlands, where you can meet flying foxes and watch them fly out at sunset. Frog calls and water bugs activities.

• Thursday 21 May 4.30pm-6.30pm at Myuna Farm, Kidds Road, Doveton; free event. Bookings: trybooking.com/DLBDC

Cancer Council morning tea

National Seniors Australia Berwick hosts a social morning tea and fundraiser event for the Cancer Council.

• Wednesday 27 May 10am-12pm at The Old Shop, Old Cheese Factory, 34 Homestead Road, Berwick. Details: Jennifer, 0474 254 287 Family violence fundraiser

Rotary Club of Casey presents Unlocking Hope—a special fundraising event in support of RizeUp and their vital work empowering families impacted by domestic and family violence. Delicious food, with drinks at bar prices. Live music from guest artist Paul Hogan, lucky door prizes and silent auctions. Dress code: cocktail.

• Saturday 20 June, 7pm-11pm at Beaconsfield Club, Holm Park Reserve, 100 Beaconsfield-Emerald Road, Beaconsfield; $65pp. Bookings: trybooking.com/events/1564861/sessions/6350052/ sections/3013983/tickets

Endeavour Hills Men’s Shed

Just retired? Learn new skills and meet new people. Improve mental wellbeing. Have fun and enjoy good company.

• Mondays-Saturdays 10am-3pm at Sydney Pargeter Reserve, 289 Power Road, Endeavour Hills. Details: John, 9700 1810.

Public Notice

Public Notice

NOTICE OF AN APPLICATION FOR A PLANNING PERMIT A PERMIT

The application is for a permit to: Variation of Restrictive Covenant T437540F

A permit is required under the following clauses of

The applicant for the permit is: Jessop & Komesaroff Pty Ltd

The application reference number is: PA26-0139

Place

2 Patrick Northeast Drive NARRE WARREN

Documents can also be viewed on Council’s website or by scanning the QR code.

https://www.casey.vic.gov.au/viewplanning-applications

You may also call (03 9705 5200) to arrange a time to look at the application and any documents that support the application at the office of the responsible authority, Casey City Council. This can be done in office hours and is free of charge.

Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the Responsible Authority.

An objection must:

•be made to the Responsible Authority in writing to, Manager Planning, P.O. Box 1000, Narre Warren 3805 or emailed to caseycc@casey.vic.gov.au

•include the application number and site address

•include the reasons for the objection, and •state how the objector would be affected.

The Responsible Authority must make a copy of every objection available at its office for any person to inspect during office hours free of charge until the end of the period during which an application may be made for review of a decision on the application. The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before: 18 May 2026

If you object, the Responsible Authority will advise you of its decision.

You may look at the application and any documents that support the application at the office of the Responsible Authority.

City of Casey Bunjil Place 2 Patrick Northeast Drive NARRE WARREN

Documents can also be viewed on Council’s website or by scanning the QR code.

Public Notice

NOTICE OF AN APPLICATION OTICE FOR A PLANNING PERMIT

The land affected by the application is located at:

15-16 Lansell Close NARRE WARREN SOUTH VIC 3805 Lot 8 LP 212167V

The application is for a permit to: Two Lot Subdivision, Covenant Variation and Creation of Restrictions

A permit is required under the following clauses of the planning scheme

Planning Scheme Clause No.

Clause 32.03-3

Clause 52.02

https://www.casey.vic.gov.au/viewplanning-applications

You may also call (03 9705 5200) to arrange a time to look at the application and any documents that support the application at the office of the responsible authority, Casey City Council. This can be done in office hours and is free of charge.

Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the Responsible Authority.

An objection must:

•be made to the Responsible Authority in writing to, Manager Planning, P.O. Box 1000, Narre Warren 3805 or emailed to caseycc@casey.vic.gov.au

•include the application number and site address

•include the reasons for the objection, and

•state how the objector would be affected.

The Responsible Authority must make a copy of every objection available at its office for any person to inspect during office hours free of charge until the end of the period during which an application may be made for review of a decision on the application.

The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before: 18 May 2026

If you object, the Responsible Authority will advise you of its decision. The land affected by

Matter for which a permit is required

To subdivide land

To create, vary or remove an easement or restriction under Section 23 of the Subdivision Act 1988

The applicant for the permit is: MJ Reddie Surveys Pty Ltd

The application reference number is: PA25-0570

You may look at the application and any documents that support the application at the office of the Responsible Authority.

City of Casey Bunjil Place 2 Patrick Northeast Drive NARRE WARREN

Documents can also be viewed on Council’s website or by scanning the QR code.

https://www.casey.vic.gov.au/viewplanning-applications

You may also call (03 9705 5200) to arrange a time to look at the application and any documents that support the application at the office of the responsible authority, Casey City Council. This can be done in office hours and is free of charge.

Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the Responsible Authority.

An objection must: •be made to the Responsible Authority in writing to, Manager Planning, P.O. Box 1000, Narre Warren 3805 or emailed to caseycc@casey.vic.gov.au

•include the application number and site address •include the reasons for the objection, and •state how the objector would be affected.

The Responsible Authority must make a copy of every objection available at its office for any person to inspect during office hours free of charge until the end of the period during which an application may be made for review of a decision on the application.

The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before:

18 May 2026

If you object, the Responsible Authority will advise you of its decision.

Heartbreak for Cranbourne

By Blair Burns

Cranbourne almost made it 3-0 against Springvale Districts but lost in a nail-biter by just two points, 14.10(94) to 14.8(92).

It was a heartbreaking loss for the Eagles who led all day with the scoreboard reading 40-6 at one point in the first quarter, before they were run over the top of in the fourth term.

Angelo Soldatos’ men started the game on fire and continued to extend the margin early in the game, getting out to a 28-point lead at quarter time.

They continued to impress and managed to push it out to 32 points at half time and despite a better third term from Springy, Cranbourne still led by 20 with one quarter to play.

Some creativity from Cranbourne captain Zak Roscoe helped put his team in front by 18 points at the 14-minute mark of the fourth quarter.

But Springvale Districts wasn’t done yet, key forward Erishmiilan Uthayakumar soon responded and cut the margin to 12 points as he slotted his fourth goal of the day.

Lochie Conboy kicked a set-shot goal two minutes later and it was only a kick in this contest, with the Demons coming home strong in front of their home crowd.

In the following two minutes, the Eagles’ defence was under siege with Springvale Districts winning the contest around the ball and pumping in repeat entries to score two behinds – Cranbourne still leading by four points.

Almost 24 minutes into the final quarter, Springy kicked deep inside 50 in search of Uthayakumar.

Tom Freyer did well to bring the ball to ground but he was beaten as the big man turned him inside out and kicked a banana goal.

Springvale Districts had hit the front for the first time in the game, coming back after the Eagles had the first seven scoring shots of the match.

Cranbourne needed a quick reply and they got it from their own big man, Trent Marotta, who was hit on the chest by Mitch Lewis.

He went back and kicked truly to put the Eagles back in front, the scoreboard reading 92-88 in favour of the visitors.

But there was one more twist, and the hero was going to Uthayakumar as he slotted his sixth goal about a minute later.

The ball came inside 50, Freyer left the star forward to attack a loose ball and got a bad bounce, it got past him to Uthayakumar who dribbled it along the ground for a goal with just a couple of minutes left.

The Eagles had another inside 50 in the dying

seconds but Springy rebounded it and the siren sounded.

The Demons secured their first win of the season as Cranbourne fell narrowly short of starting the season 3-0.

Holt, Trent

and captain

coe all kicked three goals each for Cranbourne.

Reigning premier Cheltenham sent a message to the competition as they pumped an undermanned Bentleigh side by 67 points, 22.15(147) to 11.14(80).

Inaccuracy from the Demons early saw the Rosellas jump out to a 41-5 lead at quarter time, with Bentleigh only managing 3.10 in the first half.

Ben McDonell and Finn Ryan kicked four goals each in the Cheltenham win.

Speaking of inaccuracy, a combined 12.31 was scored at Kalora Park as both Narre Warren and Dingley failed to kick straight in front of goal.

But the Dingoes did enough to secure a third consecutive win by 11 points, 7.15(57) to 5.16(46).

Callum Porter (28 disposals, nine tackles) worked hard for the Magpies, but it was Kristen Feehan who stood up for Dingley.

Murrumbeena and St Paul’s McKinnon played out a thrilling draw at Murrumbeena Park after the Lions came home strong to tie things up, both teams finishing on 11.12(78).

Edward Adams (four goals) was the focal point for the Lions, while Nicholas Stathopoulos kicked three for the Bulldogs.

• SOUTHERNDIVISION1

Springvale Districts Goals: Erishmiilan Uthayakumar 6, Matt Wetering 3, Lochie Conboy 2, Josh Bradley, Tyler Finn, Liam Giove. Best: Daniel Spence, Erishmiilan Uthayakumar, Josh Bradley, Lochie Conboy, Ricky Johnson, Piva Wright. Cranbourne Goals: Marc Holt, Trent Marotta, Zak Roscoe 3, Luca Bellinvia, Nicholas Darbyshire, Charlie Ellis, Jake Hill, Jarrod Hocking. Best: Lewis Robbins, Zak Roscoe, Jarrod Hocking, Andrew Green, Jarryd Barker, Marc Holt.

Narre Warren Goals: Jake Richardson, Tom Toner 2, Joel Zietsman. Best: Callum Porter, Hayden Johnson, Hayden Dwyer, Julian Goerlitz, Joel Zietsman, Kurt Mutimer.

Dingley Goals: Judd Lemon 2, Lachlan Benton, Joshua Ferguson, Scanlan Lynch, Tom Morecroft, Adam Peacock. Best: Kristen Feehan, Christopher Horton-Milne, Lachlan Benton, Nathan Taylor, Jack Lalor, Nathan Freeman.

OTHERRESULTSR3: Cheltenham 22.15 147) def Bentleigh 11.14 (80), Murrumbeena 11.12 (78) drew St Paul’s McKinnon 11.12 (78).

LADDER: Cheltenham, Dingley 12, Narre Warren, Cranbourne, Bentleigh 8, Murrumbeena 6, Springvale Districts, Hampton Park 4, St Paul’s McKinnon 2, Port Melbourne 0.

FIXTURER4(Saturday,2May): Hampton Park v Dingley, Cranbourne v Narre Warren, Port Melbourne v Springvale Districts, Bentleigh v Murrumbeena.

Keysborough lose on siren in shootout against Bears

By Blair Burns

Keysborough did a lot right on Saturday against Caulfield Bears - they played the way they wanted to, their leaders stood up, they kicked straight … but they lost on the siren by two points, 17.11(113) to 17.9(111).

It was a shootout at Koornang Park and even a memorable seven-goal performance from Burra skipper Ethan Bakes was not enough to get his side home to victory.

The Bears’ Will Wheaton had a shot from right on the 50m mark with about 50 seconds remaining in the game, Keysborough in front 111-107.

Wheaton didn’t have the journey but the Burra only had two players on the line, both were bodied out of the contest and Jake Benoiton took a strong mark on the goal line.

Helplessness was the overwhelming feeling for not only any Keysborough players, but also the coaches and supporters as they watched Benoiton stroll in and kick his fifth from the goal square.

As he took off celebrating with teammates, the siren sounded and the Bears had pulled of a remarkable win at the eleventh hour.

It was heartbreaking defeat for the young Burra side which did so much right, and nobody was more disappointed than coach Chris Smith.

“We were shattered … we will review the game and make sure we tidy up some things at training – what we do know is if we get in that situation again, that won’t be the same out-

come,” he said.

“We had some key moments that we didn’t do right, inexperience aside, I think as a coaching group, we may have dropped the ball.”

Despite the result, Smith found plenty of positives.

“Our better players had standout games, our mids were incredible and so was our undermanned defence, in our forward line Ethan Bakes kicked a bag of seven goals,” he said.

“It was a game of momentum swings and we hit three goals up with about 10 minutes to go – we probably shouldn’t lose the game from

there.

“But at the end of the day, we played an exciting brand of footy and were really pleased with everything except the last 15 seconds, so the result hurts.”

A seven-goal haul for Burra skipper Bakes was the highlight for the side, while the experienced Geoff Humphreys kicked four.

Max Corbyn (34 disposals, eight tackles) and Jamie Plumridge (39 disposals, eight tackles) were phenomenal in the midfield all day.

Keysborough will like its wounds and prepare for a big clash against Frankston Dolphins this weekend.

Doveton was beaten by 87 points against a strong East Malvern side as Isaac Morrisby booted five majors.

• SOUTHERNDIVISION2

RESULTS

Mordialloc 5.9 (39) def Chelsea Heights 5.4 (34), Caulfield Bears 17.11 (113) def Keysborough 17.9 (111), Frankston Dolphins 20.22 (142) def East Brighton 5.10 (40), East Malvern 16.20 (116) def Doveton 4.5 (29), Highett 11.14 (80) def Hampton 7.7 (49).

LADDER: Highett, Mordialloc 12, East Malvern, Frankston Dolphins, Doveton 8, Caulfield Bears, Keysborough, Chelsea Heights 4, Hampton, East Brighton 0.

FIXTURER4(Saturday,2May): East Malvern v Caulfield Bears, Frankston Dolphins v Keysborough, Hampton v East Brighton, Doveton v Mordialloc, Chelsea Heights v Highett.

Perfect weekend for Cavs on Apple Isle

By Justin Schwarze

A perfect trip to Tasmania in all regards unfolded across the weekend for Casey in round four of the NBL1 South with both outfits going two-for-two.

The men are in the midst of a resurgence, going 2-0 on the weekend to climb to 12th on the ladder.

It started with a gutsy, come-from-behind victory over the Hobart Chargers on Friday night, as skipper Preston Bungei was the hero.

After the Cavaliers trailed by nine at quarter time 26-17, they slowly clawed their way back to be within two heading into the fourth.

Bungei went 4/5 from the field in the last and worked his way to the cup, as Casey put up 24 points in the paint to steamroll the hosts.

The Cavaliers scored 38 in the term to run out 106-99 victors, as Bungei put the exclamation point on the contest by throwing down a monster dunk to seal the win.

Bungei was awarded the Anzac Medal with 26 points, four rebounds and two blocks on 10/18 shooting.

On Saturday, Casey put together four complete quarters to post a wire-to-wire 109-90 triumph over the Northern Force.

Patrick Ryan was outstanding, posting 32 points and five rebounds on an ultra-efficient 13/16 shooting night.

Ibrahima Diallo notched his second doubledouble of the weekend with 18 points and 12 boards.

The women operated outstandingly offensively in their win over the Chargers, shooting 55 percent as a team to claim an imposing 113-89 result.

The Cavaliers won every quarter, spearheaded by the starting lineup.

Dallas Loughridge had 27 points and eight assists, Samantha Bowman was everywhere inside with 20 points and 19 rebounds, while Nyaduoth Lok and Chelsea D’Angelo both also scored 21 or more.

A big fourth on Saturday lifted Casey to its second win, outscoring the Northern Force 29-23 in the final term to squeeze out the 88-84 win.

Loughridge was at her spectacular best with 29 points and nine assists, supported well by D’Angelo in the backcourt with 22 points, seven rebounds and five dimes.

The Cavaliers are now third with a 5-1 record.

Both Casey teams will play Eltham at home in round five.

Heartbreak at Jubilee Park for Dandenong saw Frankston claw out a clutch 88-86 victory.

Austin Shelley’s go-ahead floater with five seconds remaining on the clock proved to be the difference, despite star big man Harry Froling being fouled on the other end with a chance to tie the game.

Froling, who has struggled massively from the line this season, missed the first and tried to intentionally miss the second.

The execution was perfect, with Joe Palmer hunting down the offensive rebound, but his prayer at the buzzer was well short and the Blues defended their home court and handed the Rangers their second loss of the season.

The game was closely-contested, with neither team ever leading by double-figures, but Dandenong will be ruing the result as it led for majority of the game.

Frankston overcame a one-point deficit at three-quarter time with a classy fourth quarter performance.

Palmer led the charge for the Rangers, posting a double-double of 21 points and 13 rebounds while shooting 50 percent from the floor.

Froling deepened his early season MVP case, finishing with 19 points, six rebounds and three assists on 7/15 shooting.

Sam Davidson continued his strong production from the bench, providing 14 points on an efficient 6/9 shooting.

The Rangers now sit sixth with a 4-2 record.

In the women’s matchup, a subpar offensive second half saw Dandenong sink to a 85-69 defeat.

The Rangers couldn’t get much going early and fell behind 22-13 at quarter time, before responding well to cut the margin to one at the half.

But Dandenong was rolled in the third, shooting just 30 percent from two-point range and being outscored 25-12 to fall into a 13-point hole.

The Blues closed out the game well, taking the last 25-22 to post the comfortable victory.

Imogen Rock scored a team-high 21 to pair with seven rebounds, while skipper Catherine MacGregor struggled with her shot but finished with 13 points, four rebounds, two assists and two steals.

Dandenong descended on the ladder to 16th with a record of 1-5.

Both outfits have a double-header in round five, hosting Ringwood on Saturday before travelling to face Waverley on Sunday.

McCurran helpful for the Cannons cause

By Blair Burns

It wasn’t the week that the Casey Hockey Club was after with just one win across the men’s and women’s senior grades on the weekend.

But there was no shortage of close games with four draws over the weekend and three narrow losses.

The only team to taste success for the Casey Cannons was the Men’s Vic League 1 (MVL1) Reserves, who won against Eastern Christian Hockey Organisation (ECHO) in a 5-4 thriller.

Tadhg McCurran has been a star at the attacking end of the field this season, and this match was no different as he scored three of his team’s five goals … he was everywhere.

Other goalscorers in the win were Matthew Robson and Adam Shilliday who helped the Cannons blast past ECHO and get on the board after two losses to start the season.

The other men’s teams weren’t so lucky at Casey on the weekend, with a 0-0 draw against ECHO in the MVL1 competition, before a 3-0 loss against Mentone in the Men’s Metro South 2 side.

The WVL1 and WVL1 Reserves teams matched up against a strong Brunswick team and while the Cannons left everything out there, they came up short 3-1 in the top division.

Captain Mikaela Davis did everything she could for Casey, setting the tone and leading from the front to score the team’s only goal on the day.

In the reserves, the match was a bit closer with a 3-3 draw, but ultimately it was still not the result that the Cannons were chasing.

In enemy territory, Casey stood up and matched it with Brunswick for most of the day, but the teams were unable to be separated at the final whistle.

Jessica Rowland, Skye McDonald and Courtney McDonald all produced moments of bril-

Oellermann worked hard in his

liance to hit the scoreboard on the day.

Draws were aplenty in the Women’s Pennant D South East Division (2-2 v Hawthorn), as well as the Women’s Pennant E South East competition (1-1 v Monash).

Karen Alarcon and Maddy Smith scored in the

Young gun leads Storm to victory

By Blair Burns

A thrilling victory for the Women’s Metro 1 South side was the highlight of round three as Cardinia Storm defeated Collegians in a tight contest 1-0.

It was a great weekend of hockey action with the true Anzac spirit on display as teams worked together, all playing crucial roles on the way to victory.

The women’s match opened with immediate intensity as Cardinia seized early control, thanks to a commanding midfield trio of Lilly Kelly, Teejay Peterson and Alana Nancarrow.

They fed a lively forward line and created a steady stream of chances, while Lauren Walsh celebrated her 50th milestone with a performance that anchored the defence and supported the attacking thrusts.

The breakthrough came in the second quarter when Cardinia’s youngest player, Marley Leyden, pounced in front of the keeper’s pads to find the back of the net, giving the Storm the lead.

The rest of the half saw Cardinia press and control the tempo, but the scoreline remained 1-0 for most of the game.

Collegians mounted late pressure, yet Cardinia’s backline held firm and kept them goalless, allowing the girls to secure a win and head into next week riding a wave of confidence.

In the Men’s Metro 1 South competition, Cardinia Storm faced a well-structured Collegians side, who were also the reigning premiers.

Limited rotations forced players into unfamiliar positions, testing the team’s resilience.

Kendall Brown and Ben Quill led a defensive effort that was challenged throughout the match, with Collegians initially exploiting a few classy deflections to breach Cardinia’s lines.

As fatigue set in, space opened up and the challenge intensified.

In true Anzac Spirit, Cardinia kept fighting, conjuring late opportunities including solid circle penetration and a short corner, but the final result concluded in a 4-0 loss to Cardinia Storm.

The performance offered valuable lessons and a path to improvement, with the squad anticipating a healthier lineup and fresher legs next week as they prepare for an opponent they haven’t faced before in the Melbourne Razorbacks.

good on the day.