News - Pakenham Officer Star News - 12th March 2026

Call to defer plan decision

By Jensy Callimootoo

It’s been over a month since draft plans for Manuka Road in Berwick were released — and while community consultation has closed, some are calling for a decision on the plans to be deferred.

Located on 18.76 hectares near the historic Clover Cottage, the Manuka Road Precinct development plans comprise about 150-160 new dwellings for 446 residents.

The official consultation period ended in early March with locals believing further assessments need to be conducted.

John Roberts, who has lived in the area for more than 30 years, said that he doesn’t oppose the proposed developments, but that the traffic assessments outlined in the traffic plans were “poorly thought out”

“It’s not the fact that they’re developing there. That’s not the problem,” Mr Roberts said.

“One-hundred-and-sixty houses means over 300 cars coming into that block and that’s not taking into account their friends, relatives and visitors and all the associated traffic.

“The fact is that they haven’t catered or sufficiently taken into account the local amenities and the access.”

Findings from a 2021 traffic assessment are being used for the new draft plans.

The plan’s traffic assessors, Traffix Group, stated that since June 2021 when the original assessment was conducted, there have been no changes within this Development Plan Overlay (DPO24).

“Additionally, the total number of dwellings/ residential lots now proposed is lower than that associated with the earlier development plan associated with the 2021 counts.

“On this basis, the 2021 traffic data is considered appropriate for the purposes of this assessment.”

According to the same 2025 plan, once all dwelling stages are completed, the vehicle trip end (VTE) estimation, which is the movement of

a vehicle either arriving or departing from a specific location, will see approximately 1215 daily trip generations.

Mr Roberts argues that fresh reviews of the peak-time traffic and congestion are needed, with Manuka Road “always blocked” during after school hours.

He worries that roads will be gridlocked and that two streets alone is not enough to mitigate this.

Stage 1 of the developments would involve the construction of 46 dwellings.

According to Casey’s draft proposal, traffic impacts would be managed through staged development, with initial access via Allan Street and a 14-metre internal road, alongside future upgrades subject to further assessment.

It also states that all roads are anticipated to carry less than 2,000 vehicles per day.

“The two tiny, little roads are simply not enough,” Mr Roberts said.

“And they’ve only got two ridiculously small access points for that housing estate.”

“They’ve failed to account for the volume of buses that now use Manuka Road, especially in and out of the high school, and they’ve only got two ridiculously small access points for that housing estate, both of which are on Manuka Road. “

Recently, Anthony Tassone, President of Casey Residents and Ratepayers Association (CRRA) called on Casey to defer the approval of the Manuka draft plans until they addressed and amended some factors.

Like Mr Roberts, the CRRA says the plan fails to adequately address traffic issues and pedestrian safety.

It also requests that council requires identification of what will be used as “credible open space”

And subsequently, that these spaces are within the capacity for “meaningful recreation, passive use and safe access” , rather than “residual spaces constrained by servicing requirements”

As outlined in the draft plans, the develop-

ment intends to provide up to 1.17 hectares of open space.

But Mr Tassone, representing CRRA, says this is simply not enough.

In CRRA’s submission to the council, it also appealed for further clarification of trees and canopy loss impacts as well as clarity on the heritage protection overlay.

“The Development Plan stage is the primary opportunity to ensure that key matters…. are clearly resolved and not deferred to later permit or detailed design stages”, Tassone said.

Following an inquiry made by Star News, Mayor Stefan Koomen said the council had received more than 100 submissions and that all feedback will be thoroughly assessed.

“Our community’s feedback is incredibly important, and I want to thank everyone who took the time to share their views on the Manuka Road Development Plan,” he said.

“Council received 141 submissions, and it was great to see more than 70 people attend our two pop-up sessions, which Cr Scott Dowling and I also attended to hear directly from our community.

“All submissions and feedback will be thoroughly assessed against the relevant planning criteria before the Development Plan is finalised.”

Developers of the project, Parklea Development, says it acknowledges the vast interest in the draft plans for Manuka Road – but that the current plan put on the table sufficiently responds to these matters.

Like Casey, Parklea acknowledges the community interest in the Manuka Road Development Plan and appreciates the opportunity to respond.

On Mr Tassone’s request to defer the approval of the plans, a Parklea spokesperson said that “it’s important to note that the planning matters raised have been rigorously examined over many years through detailed engagement with Casey Council’s team”

“Many of the key issues were also addressed through a formal VCAT process, which provided

clear direction on the requirements to be met,” they said.

“The current draft Development Plan reflects that extensive history of review, refinement, and technical assessment.”

He also told Star News that the revised draft plans adequately addresses the matters raised by both the council and the community.

According to the developers, a key focus of the updated proposal is maintaining the established character of Old Berwick, an area known for its larger residential blocks.

Earmarked for Stage 1, the southern portion of the site, the average lot size is proposed to be about 737 square metres.

Five of the 46 planned lots would be more than 1,000 square metres, a move the developer says is intended to reflect the low-density feel of the surrounding neighbourhood.

The plan also seeks to retain important trees across the site, rather than clearing the land entirely, the layout has been designed to incorporate significant vegetation into the future estate where possible.

Heritage has been another point of attention for many in the community.

The spokesperson said that the proposal acknowledges the presence of Clover Cottage and Minard Villa, two properties of local significance and that Clover Cottage sits outside the developer’s landholding and remains protected under an existing Heritage Overlay — adding that the draft plan is the product of several years of technical studies, consultation and ongoing discussions with Council.

“These elements have been shaped through years of consultation, technical studies and Council guidance, and we are confident the draft Plan represents a balanced and well considered response to the site’s planning requirements,” said the Parklea spokesperson.

“We respect that the Council is now reviewing submissions from the community consultation period and will continue to work constructively with them through the next steps.”

Fuel hike, stock ‘secure’

By Corey Everitt

While the state government is ensuring residents don’t get “ripped off at the pump,” locals cannot fill up their tank close to home for less than $2 a litre, prompting anger at petrol companies.

As the war in Iran continues, oil prices have surged. Monday saw a peak of over $100 USD a barrel, the first time the market has broken the triple-digit threshold since the start of the Ukraine-Russia war in 2022.

On the morning of Wednesday 11 March, all local servos are trading petrol for over $2 a litre. The lowest price in Pakenham is 209.9. In Officer, the lowest price is 10 cents more at 219.9 a litre. The highest in both suburbs is 229.9 a litre.

For diesel, the lowest price in Pakenham is 217.9. The lowest in Officer is 239.9. The peak price for both suburbs is 249.9.

Locals expressed anger at petrol companies, claiming the conflict in the Middle East has been used as an excuse to hike prices.

“They put the fuel up the minute they heard about it when they already still had fuel … makes no sense and isn’t fair at all on anyone,” one local said on the Pakenham Gazette’s social media.

Others said they are driving less and relying more on public transport to save money.

The Victorian Automotive Chamber of Commerce (VACC) emphasised that the vast majority of prices are beyond the control of service stations, saying that they face pressure on both ends as suppliers raise costs and customer frustrations grow.

“Service stations are price-takers, not pricemakers. When global markets move, retailers feel it immediately — but they have almost no capacity to cushion the blow for customers or for their own businesses,“ VACC CEO Peter Jones said.

“This is a genuine double squeeze. Costs go up, margins stay thin, and the person wearing all of that pressure is usually a small business owner and their team.“

The state government has introduced daily price caps on service stations in an attempt to curb price gouging.

Starting on Wednesday, servos are required to set their fuel price for the following day by 2pm, where it is published on Service Victoria’s Servo Saver by 4pm.

The price will come into effect at 6am the fol-

lowing day and will remain in place for 24 hours unless the service station chooses to lower the price.

If the price is increased beyond what was originally set during this period, the service station may face a fine of more than $3,000. That fine can increase to $24,000 if taken to court.

Servo Saver provides a map of all current prices and directs users to the lowest price in their area.

The federal government on Tuesday held a meeting of the new fuel taskforce, a government

Emergency crews rescue person trapped in vehicle

By Afraa Kori

A 67-year-old woman was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries following a two-vehicle collision in Officer on Tuesday 10 March.

Victoria Police said the crash involved a Mazda CX5 and a Nissan X-Trail on Damon Street at around 9:15 am. The Nissan’s 60-yearold male driver was unharmed.

Emergency services responded quickly. Ambulance Victoria confirmed Advanced Life Support and Mobile Intensive Care paramedics attended, transporting the woman to Dandenong Public Hospital in a stable condition with upper body injuries.

The Country Fire Authority assisted at the scene, helping to remove one person from a vehicle. The incident was declared under control by 9:21 am and fully safe by 9:31 am.

grouping with key industries such as transport, to address supply chain issues.

Energy Minister Chris Bowen maintained that fuel imports are arriving as expected and that rising prices were due to panic buying and increased demand.

Minimum reserve requirements are in place if needed. The main concern of the federal government now is meeting current demand, especially from farmers.

“The key message is that, while there are challenges and uncertainties in all international sup-

ply chains at the moment, the preparations the government has put in place for the minimum stock obligation are working,” he said.

“If it’s necessary to access those minimum supplies, we will, but we’re not there at this point.”

Suppliers are required to hold minimum reserves of petroleum products. Refiners must hold 24 days’ worth of usual demand for petrol and 20 days’ worth of diesel supply. Importers, who account for around 90 per cent of the country’s fuel supply, must keep reserve stocks of petrol and diesel worth 27 and 32 days, respectively.

An artist’s impression of Greg Lynn at an earlier hearing.

Accused camper killer Greg Lynn refused bail

By Emily Wood, AAP

Accused camper killer Greg Lynn’s bail has been refused by a judge ahead of his murder trial.

Lynn applied for bail at Melbourne’s Supreme Court, where his lawyers argued he should be released as the prosecution’s case against him was weak.

The 59-year-old former pilot was brought into court on Thursday morning 5 March, when Justice David Beach announced he would not be released.

“The court has concluded that bail must be refused,“ he said.

Ahead of the decision, a nervous Lynn nod-

ded at his son as he clutched a white folder and sat in the dock at the back of the court room.

He is charged with the murder of Carol Clay, 73, who went missing from a remote campsite in Victoria’s northeast in March 2020, alongside her friend Russell Hill, 74.

Prosecutors opposed Lynn’s bail, arguing their case was strong and he could not meet the high bar of having exceptional circumstances to permit release.

It’s alleged Ms Clay was shot in the head by a bullet from the ex-pilot’s gun at Wonnangatta, in the state’s high country.

Lynn maintains his innocence, claiming the incident was accidental.

An unregistered truckload of waste tyres has resulted in $20,000 worth of fines. (EPA)

$20k fines over tyres

An unregistered truckload of waste tyres has landed the transporter and a tyre shredding company in trouble with EPA Victoria, sparking $20,000 in fines.

EPA officers were on a routine inspection of the business at Officer when they saw the truck unloading approximately 200 worn-out tyres that had not been registered with EPA’s Waste Tracker system.

Waste Tracker traces loads all the way from the creation of the waste, through transport, processing and recycling or disposal, making sure they are not dumped or stored illegally where the waste becomes pollution or a fire risk.

Braeside-based Vic Tyre Recycling Pty Ltd has been fined $10,176 for transporting the tyres without a waste record, and the company planning to shred them, Clyde Outdoor Timbers Pty Ltd of Officer, will pay $10,176 for accepting waste without a record.

EPA Compliance Programs Manager Alison McRae says Waste Tracker is an effective way of spotting a missing load and identifying the culprit.

“Waste Tracker makes it easy to know who has the load of waste at any stage in its journey. If it suddenly disappears, EPA will know,” Ms McRae said.

“Responsible operators know their waste is going to proper disposal, and criminals find it

harder to abandon industrial waste on other people’s land or in stockpiles that have no fire safety measures,” she said.

Creating a Waste Tracker record is mandatory before transporting waste tyres, and EPA conducts random inspections to monitor compliance. Each missing or incomplete Waste Tracker record counts as a separate offence under the Environment Protection Act 2017.

The inspection at Officer found the company storing more tyres than its permitted limit, and EPA issued a prohibition notice requiring Clyde Outdoor Timbers Pty Ltd to stop accepting or shredding waste tyres, and to reconfigure its stockpiles into smaller stacks with sufficient clearance between them to reduce fire risk.

Under the Environment Protection Act 2017 and the Infringements Act 2006, both companies have the right to have their fines reviewed or considered by a court. Both applied for an internal review, and the review has upheld both fines. They still have the right to take the case to court. Members of the public can report pollution by calling EPA’s 24-hour hotline on 1300 372 842 or providing details online at epa.vic.gov.au/reportpollution/reporting-pollution

Businesses can learn about Waste Tracker on the EPA website epa.vic.gov.au/waste-tracker and there’s information on how to manage waste tyres here epa.vic.gov.au/manage-waste-tyres

Safety push amid tragedy

By Jensy Callimootoo

A local MP has sponsored a Parliamentary petition calling for pedestrian safety upgrades on Pound Road in Narre Warren South following the death of a teenage boy in February.

In line with the petition release, South-Eastern Metropolitan MP, Ann-Marie Hermans, appealed to Melissa Horne, the Minister for Roads and Road Safety to “urgently intervene”, according to a media release from 5 March.

The legislative calls come after the tragic death of 16-year-old Chris Rua Antony, who was walking home from school along the unprotected footpath on the busy Pound Road when a vehicle, driven by a 48-year-old woman, struck him from behind.

Chris died seven days later in hospital.

Chris’ father Antony Francis, began the Parliamentary petition on 5 March 2026, garnering the support and official sponsorship of Ms Hermans.

The petition, available to be signed both electronically and on paper, requests that Victoria’s Upper House calls on the government to install adequate safety barriers in the vulnerable sections.

Specifically, the petition seeks to relocate the footpath to be further away from the roadway and to reduce the speed limit of the arterial road to 60km/h, which would replace the current speed limit of 70km/h.

Lastly, the petition requests a comprehensive road assessment review to be conducted and to consider updating the relevant legislation or regulations to require footpaths to be a minimum of a metre from high traffic roads.

“This footpath runs immediately adjacent to high-speed traffic without a protective safety barrier,” the petition states.

“There have been ongoing community concerns regarding pedestrian safety along vulnerable sections of Pound Road, particularly for children travelling to and from school.”

Ms Hermans said that many community members have also felt the impacts of this sombre loss.

“Chris was a bright, kind and hardworking young man with his whole future ahead of him,”

Ms Hermans said.

“He excelled at school, he was deeply committed to his faith, and he wanted to become an

engineer so he could give back to the community.

“His life was cut short in a tragedy that may have been preventable.

“The community is traumatised. Young families walk their pets here. Children cycle to school.

“People should not fear for their lives on a suburban footpath.

“The government cannot ignore this any longer.

“Reports of more than four pedestrians being hit by vehicles since 2022 should have been more than enough reason to organise safety barriers.

“Now one young life has been tragically lost. This tragedy must be the catalyst for immediate action.”

The residential and general community have also been involved in ongoing awareness campaigns regarding the lack of road safety and pedestrian protection.

A Change.org petition, initiated by a concerned resident shortly after Chris’ passing, has accumulated over 5500 signatures.

Chris was laid to rest on 6 March 2026. He is survived by his parents, Antony and Agal and his older sister, Auxilia.

The parliamentary petition will close on 26 March 2026, requiring 10,000 e-signatures to go to a debate.

If you want to sign the petition, visit: parliament.vic.gov.au/get-involved/petitions/ pound-road-pedestrian-safety

Before you know it, your house is up

College marks milestone

Hampton Park Secondary College has celebrated four decades of education with a special Open Evening. The special event, held on Wednesday 4 March as part of the college’s 40th anniversary celebrations, welcomed around 70 families to explore the campus and take part in a range of activities highlighting the school’s programs and community spirit.

Cultural Diversity and Community Engagement

Coordinator Sally Carruthers said the evening began with a barbecue before guests gathered in the performing arts centre for a commemorative cakecutting ceremony led by principal Wayne Haworth and Senior Education Improvement Leader Justine

Smyth.

Following the ceremony, families joined guided tours around the school, visiting different learning areas and seeing the college’s programs in action, including its VET offerings and classroom learning spaces. Student performances were also part of the celebration, including a piano piece performed by student Jonathan Sequerah, accompanied by music from the school band.

Throughout the evening, families were able to take part in interactive activities across the campus, from science demonstrations and mathematics games to technology displays featuring robotics, laser cutting and 3D printing.

Cookery students served canapes and hot drinks to guests, while Academy students led physical activities focused on teamwork and community building.

The celebration also highlighted the diversity of the Hampton Park community, with more than 60 nationalities represented across the student body.

In recent years, the college has recorded the strongest senior school results in its 40-year history, alongside improvements in NAPLAN outcomes.

More than $20 million has also been invested in new facilities at the school, including modern learning spaces and a dedicated First Nations space developed with the input of Koorie students.

This land is not fragile - but our truth became selective

Australia is not a fragile nation.

But our willingness to tell the whole truth has become fragile.

We are a young country built on an ancient land, and instead of growing into maturity, we are splintering - into grievance, entitlement, fear, and silence. We argue about dates, symbols, words, and laws, while refusing to confront the deeper question:

What does it actually mean to be Australian - and what are we prepared to defend?

Let us tell the story of Aunty Loma. Aunty Loma was not Aboriginal.

She was a red headed white girl. Young. Female. Powerless.

At fourteen, she was married off.

By sixteen, she was a single mother. Her second child was taken from her.

She was told the baby had died.

Decades later, she learned the truth: the child had been removed because authorities decided she was unfit.

Not because of culture. Not because of race. Because of class, gender, and power.

This was not unique.

Thousands of non–First Nations children were removed through churches, welfare systems, and moral policing.

The Stolen Generation was not singular.

It was layered. It was systemic. It was brutal.

And it was not confined to one race - though First Nations people bore it most consistently and most violently. But here is the uncomfortable truth:

Selective memory has replaced honest history.

Pain has become politicised.

Suffering has become hierarchical.

And grievance has become currency.

That helps no one.

Victimhood is not a national strategy.

Australia cannot move forward if we keep teaching people to see themselves primarily as victims - of history, of systems, of others.

Recognition matters.

Justice matters.

But permanent victimhood is corrosive.

It strips people of agency.

It replaces responsibility with resentment.

And it fractures the social fabric.

We are now seeing the consequences.

Let us say this plainly.

A society cannot survive if contribution is optional but entitlement is guaranteed.

Handouts without expectation do not heal trauma - they institutionalise dependency and creating generational dependency.

When generations grow up seeing that:

•work is optional,

•responsibility is negotiable,

•and the system will always compensate for poor choices,

we should not be surprised when cohesion collapses.

Compassion without accountability is not kindness.

It is abandonment.

Australia has one legal system - secular, democratic, and elected.

This is non-negotiable.

There is:

•no place for religious or culturally based law i.e.

Sharia Law,

•no place for parallel religious courts,

•no place for cultural practices that violate bodily autonomy, gender equality, or human rights - even if that is our First Nations culture.

This is not an attack on ‘religions’ or ‘First Nations.’

This is not an attack on faith.

It is a defence of Australian law.

If you wish to live under religious law, there are nations built on it.

Australia is not one of them - and must never become one.

Proselytisation must stop.

Door-knocking conversion campaigns must stop.

No one has the right to tell another human being they are:

•damned,

•inferior,

•unclean,

•or “going to hell”

Believe whatever you wish.

Practise your faith freely.

But the moment belief becomes coercive, demeaning, or invasive, it crosses the line.

Religious freedom does not include the freedom to harass, intimidate, or psychologically dominate others.

This applies to all faiths. No exemptions.

Equality means equality - not special treatment.

There should be equal opportunity for all Australians - regardless of race, religion, or ancestry.

Not preferential treatment.

Not shortcut systems.

Not identity-based advantage.

If your great-great-grandparent was First Nations, that fact alone should not entitle you to handouts unless you are actively living, learning, and contributing to that culture.

Identity without responsibility is hollow.

Australia should reward: •effort, •contribution, •integrity, •and civic participation.

Not grievance.

Stop blaming “white people” for institutional atrocity.

Much of Australia’s harm was carried out not by “white people” but by institutions: •churches, •governments, •welfare authorities, •moral guardians.

Blaming skin colour absolves systems of responsibility - and ensures they repeat themselves.

We do not need scapegoats.

We need accountability.

This country is worth defending - properly

We do not want to become a nation of: •hate, •fear, •imported conflicts, •or permanent division.

We do not want to be known for: •religious extremism, •racial grievance, •or cultural intimidation.

Australia works when we remember: •mateship, •fairness, •responsibility, •dignity, •and freedom with limits.

We cannot allow religion to invade pubic space for prayer or impositions, like stopping a game in a packed stadium because some players need to pray or break their fast.

The Way Forward

If we want a future worth handing to our children, we must:

1.Tell the full history - all of it

2.End handouts without accountability

3.Rebuild values-based education

4.Defend one law for all

5.Reject supremacy - religious, racial, cultural or ideological

6.Choose contribution over complaint

Affirmative action for a minority must have a target, a ‘use by’ date.

Australia does not need to be torn down.

It needs to be mature.

We are not broken.

We are a work in progress.

And progress requires courage - not silence; honesty - not pandering; and pride - not apology.

Truth be told:

This land can hold us all - but only if we stop demanding special rules and start living shared responsibility. That is the Australia worth becoming.

Combatting loneliness

By Jensy Callimootoo

Berwick local Marion was in for a charming surprise when her home care worker, Liana Krone invited her for an outing on what can be a joyous day for some but a lonesome day for others.

The 86 year old who lives alone was planning to spend Christmas by herself last year, but in a heart-warming gesture from Liana, the pair instead spent the day celebrating with a lunch, complete with a full roast, dessert and gifts.

For Liana, it wasn’t just about the special holiday, but also about combatting the loneliness often felt by older communties.

Liana has known and cared for Marion for over four years and sees her three times a week.

“Knowing that her family lives interstate and overseas, I knew from early on that Marion would be spending Christmas Day by herself,” Liana said.

It falls in line with new research initiations by Federation University that aim to highlight innovative strategies to mitigate loneliness and enhance mental health for those living in aged-care homes.

The University will be partnering with home care provider, Silverchain, to develop evidence-based interventions that aim to be implemented across several aged care facilities.

According to Tanya Davison, Silverchain’s Director of Research Discovery, contributing factors such as limited social activity or social networks, poor perceived health and depressed mood can often be exacerbated among people living in home aged care.

Silverchain’s Director of Research Discovery, Adjunct Professor Tanya Davison, said loneliness is considered an epidemic and a major public health risk.

“This emphasises the need for targeted research and intervention for this vulnerable group,” Adj Prof. Davison said.

These findings are echoed by Liana, who sees firsthand the impact of loneliness, which she describes as “quite common” among older Australians. “I have noticed that for many older Australians, the loss of a partner, declining health in-

BUSINESS IN FOCUS

Cardinia Jobs and Skills

The 2026 Cardinia Jobs and Skills Showcase is back this month, to connect job seekers with local employers, training experts and designated job support agencies. Designed to support people at every stage of their employment journey, this event offers a welcoming space to explore pathways, gain practical advice and discover real opportunities close to home.

Held on Wednesday 18 March at the Cardinia Cultural Centre, the event starts at 9.15am with a comprehensive Jobseeker Information Session, led by Workforce Australia – Local Jobs. This session is tailored to help participants understand today’s job market, navigate in demand industries and sharpen their resume and interview skills. Whether actively jobhunting or wondering what might come next, the session provides job seekers with local insights and tips to start using immediately

From 10am, attendees can step into the main expo, the Jobs and Skills Showcase, featuring more than 60 employers, educators and career specialists from across the region. Exhibitors range from major local employers to emerging industries, apprenticeship providers, training organisations and community services. The expo offers something for young jobseekers, career-changers, parents returning to work and anyone looking to build new skills

Cardinia Shire Mayor, Cr Brett Owen said this event plays a vital role in strengthening a skilled and connected local workforce.

“Events like the Jobs and Skills Showcase help our community explore new possibilities and feel more prepared,” he said.

“They’re also a great boost for local businesses, giving them the chance to meet job seekers who are ready to become part of a thriving local workforce. Council is proud to support an event that helps residents take the next step in their careers while strengthening our local workforce.”

The Jobs and Skills Showcase highlights the power of partnership, supported by Workforce Australia – Local Jobs, Federation University, Star News Group and Care Talent. Together, these organisations are helping create clearer pathways into local jobs and training and strengthening Cardinia’s economic future.

Bookings are essential for this FREE event, and demand is expected to be strong.

Whether you’re entering the workforce for the first time, preparing to upskill, or exploring a new direction altogether, the 2026 Jobs and Skills Showcase is your opportunity to gain clarity, make connections and take the next step with confidence.

Secure your place today:

“On a day to day basis, it can be something as basic as not having a conversation with anyone that can increase their feelings of loneliness.

“Often the elderly who have reduced mobility and are living alone no longer have daily structures which can in turn leave voids in their day.

“Instead of filling those voids I have noticed clients just sitting watching television, sleeping or losing interest in the things they once did and enjoyed.”

From her frontline experience, Liana says she sees the spark in a client’s eye when she speaks to them with respect and treats them as a friend.

“Discovering those mutual interests, having respect… showing that you care and are interested in them and actively listen to what they have to say can make them feel valued and appreciated,” she said.

“Trust and a shared vulnerability can be formed with a sense of belonging.

“Knowing how I would have wanted my grandmother to be cared for has helped me immensely in my job itself, and my approach to the care I provide to my clients.

cluding loss of mobility and independence, and a decrease in connections with other people increases the feeling of loneliness,” she said.

“If I can make my clients happy or even give a smile, then it brings me much happiness and the reason why I love my job.”

Club honours donor legacy

By Violet Li

A revived community group in Casey has celebrated its official inauguration, honouring the legacy of a local organ donor.

The Smart Club of Melbourne Inc. held its inauguration ceremony on Friday 27 February, marking a new chapter to promote social cohesion and multicultural inclusion.

Secretary Salma Maqbool said the club was originally established in October 2023 by the late Clyde North resident Monica Dhingra, whose vision continues to guide the organisation today.

The club was later reinstated in October 2024 and has grown quickly from just five members to about 55 members.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by a number of community leaders and special guests, including Holt MP Cassandra Fernando, who officially opened the event by cutting a ribbon before walking a red carpet reception.

Guests were welcomed with an invocation, music and speeches delivered in both English and Punjabi. The evening also included entertainment, networking and a community dinner.

Salma said the ceremony paid tribute to the club’s founder Ms Dhingra, whose passing in late 2024 inspired the group to continue her work.

Ms Dhingra was remembered as a seven-organ donor.

“We are making her dreams come true in terms of having different CALD groups to be included in our group, so it’s not exclusive to only one nationality,” Salma said.

“We want to embrace social cohesion. Look at other groups in the south east area, collaborate with them, and we also include the First Nations.

“And very important is that we embrace the Australian culture, as in observing Australia Day, going to ANZAC Day, attending other activities…

“Our vision is about oneness and humanity.”

Millhaven Lodge has been part of Pakenham since 1926. We are a community-owned not-for-profit organisation whose mission is to provide our residents with flexible and individualised care.

As an organisation, we respect residents’ choices and understand the importance of maintaining their independence.

Millhaven Lodge has something that cannot be found anywhere else. It has a sense of community within a community where everyone can be themselves and receive the care and support they need.

ATO interest impact

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

A South East community-support agency has welcomed a call for the Australian Taxation Office to relieve the steep interest charged on tax debts.

South East Community Links has supported clients with a staggering total of $3.7 million in ATO-related debt since July 2024.

This includes more than $1.3 million of ATO debt so far in the 2025-’26 financial year.

Currently, tax law requires interest to be applied and to compound daily, even while taxpayers make repayments under approved plans.

“We’re seeing people working two or three jobs who are still falling behind because interest charges grow faster than they can repay,” SECL financial wellbeing head Rachna Madaan Bowman said.

Ms Bowman says the Tax Ombudsman’s call for interest-free payment plans and fairer processes would “make a real difference for people who are genuinely trying to stay on track”

In a review this month, the Tax Ombudsman Ruth Owen urged the ATO to offer better relief for indebted taxpayers “trying to do the right thing”

“The ATO’s decision-making isn’t meeting community expectations.

“In particular, it is impacting too harshly on some taxpayers trying to do the right thing in repaying their tax debts.

“Interest can make small debts grow to unaffordable levels very quickly and, for some taxpayers, the interest can become greater than the original debt, making full repayment near impossible.

“We have seen many cases where the interest compounds to levels grossly disproportionate to the principal debt and the taxpayer’s ability to pay,”

Ms Owen recommended that the ATO agreed to up-front, interest-free payment plans for eligible taxpayers.

“The interest does not then accumulate further while taxpayers take reasonable steps to repay their debts; it helps taxpayers get back on track and discharges the tax debt more quickly for the ATO.”

General interest charges (GIC) of 10.65 per cent are imposed when taxes are not paid on time.

Taxpayers with a debt can request a reduction or refund of interest, formally called a ‘remission,’ by asking the ATO and providing supporting information.

Of the $55 billion in uncontested tax owed to the Commonwealth Government, 18 per cent is made up of interest applied to the debt.

Between 2019 and 2025, the balance of GIC owed increased 185 per cent, outpacing the 94

per cent increase in uncontested tax debt.

The Tax Ombudsman also highlighted the ATO’s inconsistent decision-making on interest charges, vague guidance on rights to review and poor communications.

The ATO has agreed to all the Tax Ombudsman’s recommendations.

Ms Owen welcomed recent changes made by the ATO to address inconsistency in general interest charge (GIC) remission decisions and to improve its guidance to taxpayers and tax practitioners.

Footy test for new routes

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

The Metro Tunnel’s ‘Big Switch’ is set for a test as South East footy fans converge on Marvel Stadium and the MCG for AFL’s opening round.

Extra train services are being provided on the Pakenham and Cranbourne lines for seven games in Melbourne between 8-15 March.

But South East commuters face a “particular challenge”, given their trains no longer directly connect to Richmond and Southern Cross stations, says the Public Transport Users Association.

PTUA spokesperson Daniel Bowen said while there were benefits to the Metro Tunnel, many commuters were still getting used to the new travel patterns and routes, he said.

“The key is for authorities to provide good information, plenty of staff to help, and have plenty of trains running.”

The Department of Transport and Planning advises passengers to change trains at Caulfield or Town Hall, or to walk from Town Hall to the MCG.

To get to Marvel Stadium, passengers should change at State Library or Town Hall to catch a train to Southern Cross.

Bowen warned there are some gaps in the extra services – up to 20 minutes waits for trains from Jolimont to Flinders Street after the MCG match between Melbourne and St Kilda on Sunday 15 March.

Some of the extra trains to Cranbourne/ Pakenham will start at Malvern rather than Town Hall, he said. “We hope Metro and the Government are watching this weekend closely and will continue to improve Melbourne’s public transport services to cut waiting times, add capacity, and ensure people can get around quickly and efficiently.”

Rob’s on road to recovery

By Violet Li

Former City of Casey mayor and long-time community figure Rob Wilson is recovering after suffering a significant stroke just before Christmas, with family saying he is slowly improving day by day.

Mr Wilson, 81, had a stroke on 7 December, which impacted his cognitive functions, mainly his memories.

His daughter Lisa Wilson said the past few months had been challenging, but the family has been encouraged by signs of progress in his recovery.

“He’s getting better and better every day,” she said.

“He has good days and bad days. He’s getting there.”

Doctors have told the family recovery could take months, and Mr Wilson is still undergoing assessments to better understand the impact of the stroke.

Despite some ongoing memory difficulties, he has begun recalling conversations and reconnecting with people and places that shaped his life.

Recently, a visit to the Narre Warren South Cricket Club stirred strong emotions and memories.

“My brother David took him there, and it was almost eerie how much he remembered,” Lisa said.

“He was able to hold conversations and talk about things again.”

For decades, Mr Wilson has been a familiar name across Narre Warren and the wider Casey region.

First encouraged by local councillor Ray Bastin, he ran for council in the early 1980s and went on to serve for about 20 years, eventually becoming mayor in 2004, a moment his family says was one of his proudest achievements.

Mr Wilson helped organise the long-running

often selling raffle tickets for donated “meat trays” to support teams.

Outside the council and his community life, Mr Wilson spent more than three decades as a teacher, inspiring generations of students with his love of history.

That passion extended beyond the classroom.

A keen historian, he has written extensively about family and local history and has contributed research to historical societies in the region.

Mr Wilson was also deeply involved in local cricket, playing for and later helping lead the club that would become Narre South Cricket Club. He scored more than 3,000 career runs and later served as a coach, captain and vice-president.

“I think really the crunch of dad is all about bringing people together,” Lisa said.

“That’s just given him personal pleasure in himself without ever asking for anything in return. He’s always had a willingness to reach out, help, and bring people together.

“Everything that he’s done has always been from the goodness of his heart. But sometimes they’re backflipped and have opposition.”

Mr Wilson was also remembered as an incredibly active figure in the community, often walking long distances around Narre Warren and Berwick.

Family members said it was common for him to walk between five and 10 kilometres a day, sometimes trekking from Narre Warren South to Berwick’smainstreetjusttovisitfamilyorfriends.

Mr Wilson had undergone knee surgeries about a decade ago. Despite the significant pain and the struggle after the surgery, Mr Wilson continued to push himself physically. His family now draws parallels between that recovery and his current fight to regain mental strength after the stroke.

“You look at his knees. He’s had both of his knees done, and it’s walking a little bit more and a little bit more resting — walking, resting, walking — until one day he can walk 10 kilometres,” Lisa said.

Hair styles for older women

As we age, selecting a hairstyle that suits our changing hair texture becomes essential. Whether you prefer a chic short cut or a graceful longer style, there are many options that can enhance your look.

Stylish Short Cuts

A Pixie Cut is edgy and easy to care for, making it perfect for older women. Adding layers offers a boost in texture and volume, which is great for thinning hair.

The Classic Bob has long been a favourite among older women. Either a sleek, straight look or soft waves for a more relaxed style. A chin-length bob beautifully frames the face, while a longer bob provides versatility.

Short Shag If you enjoy textured styles, the short shaggy style is fantastic. Ideal for fine or wavy hair, it presents a youthful, layered appearance without excessive fuss. If a short cut isn’t your preference, medium-length hair strikes an excellent balance, offering ease of care while maintaining styling options.

Shoulder-Length Layers: This cut balances length and manageability, working beautifully with straight or wavy textures. It adds softness and movement with minimal styling.

Long Bob: The long bob or lob combines the best of both worlds, giving you additional length without too much maintenance. It pairs well with straight or gently waved styling.

Long Layers: Layers in long hair add movement and shape, preventing a heavy appearance. This style suits thicker hair, allowing you to maintain length while retaining bounce.

Loose Waves: Soft, loose waves provide a romantic and effortless look for long hair. You can create this style with a curling iron or by braiding damp hair and letting it dry naturally, achieving volume with ease.

Sleek and Straight: Long, straight hair is elegant and refined. A simple change in parting can refresh the style effortlessly. At Centennial Living retirement villages, residents can be found sharing hair style tips over

NextGen Level Up launches

Karinya Farm has officially launched its NextGen Youth Services at its new Pakenham space, bringing the Level Up program to young people aged 12 to 25

NextGen – Level Up is a structured, groupbased program for children, young people, and adults who are drawn to gaming and technology.

It provides a safe, inclusive, centre-based space where participants can connect, build skills, and work towards their goals in a way that feels natural and relevant.

Sessions are interest-led, low pressure, and focused on social connection, confidence, emotional regulation, and community participation. Groups are age-appropriate and ability-matched, starting from as young as six years old.

While gaming and tech are the hook, the focus is on real-world skills — communication, teamwork, independence, and belonging. Counselling and transport can also be added where needed, allowing families to tailor supports.

“NextGen – Level Up was created because support shouldn’t feel forced. It should feel safe, engaging, and built around what young people actually enjoy,” owners Amanda and Chris said.

Expressions of Interest are now open, with sessions expected to commence in March 2026.

· For more details visit https://www.karinyafarmvic.com.au/

Show back for 115th year

By Corey Everitt

This weekend will see the return of the Pakenham Show for the 115th year, bringing entertainment, thrilling competition and, of course, the country.

The Parklea Pakenham Agricultural and Horticultural Show is set for Saturday 14 March, with this year’s theme being “Life in the Ocean.”

“I think everybody should come down and experience what an agricultural show is all about,” show president Leanne Venables said.

“It’s free. A lot of the activities are free, so families don’t have to dive into their pockets to fork out.”

The show will highlight aquaculture, such as fish farming, to show that produce is not just reserved for the land. Entertainment will also include aquatic themes and kids can participate in a turtle colouring and decoration competition.

The show will have an aquatic-based art exhibition from 16 primary schools and community groups, the most of any year.

“With agriculture, it doesn’t just happen on the surface of the land. It actually happens in the water as well. So we look at aquaculture, fish farming and all that sort of stuff as well.”

The typical showcase will remain, with an assortment of competitions and displays such as sheep and poultry for agriculture, as well as art, baking, needlework, metalwork and much more.

New attractions this year include Snorkelaramas, a pair of roving entertainers with a silvery diver theme.

Myli Library Pakenham will also have Seaweed Sally - a mobile Marine Education exhibit.

Scottish Highlands will feature this year, including a small calf that will make for a perfect photo. The iconic shaggy, horned cows are provided by Serenity Highlands.

is around the corner

This year will also include an appearance from Baby Shark from the iconic song that took over the world.

Also new to the show program from the Cardinia Youth Services - show stage with local peformers from 9am-4pm including multicultural performances.

Following previous years, there will be camel rides, pony rides, a skate competition, a visit from Eesha the elephant and Ranger, Reptile

WIN A GIFT HAMPER!

The show’s Young Junior Ambassador for the 115th year is Ashlee Rogers. Show Personality competition will also be judged at 1pm in front of the Pakenham Hall/library.

The Pakenham Show will be held at PB Ronald Reserve on Saturday 14 March from 9am to 4pm. Entry is free.

Main Street, Pakenham

3810 Ph (03) 5941 7165 Ph 5941 7165

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Bags of fun

The

it a fun-filled adventure.

Bigger than ever and still only $10, you can grab your showbag at Stand 1. Just look out for the balloons and posters as you explore the showgrounds to collect all your goodies! All in all 23 stands:

Victoria products, drink bottles, Lego, seeds and Pakenham

Caldern brings safety and inclusion to the show

By Afraa Kori

The upcoming Pakenham Show will feature a new stand to the Adventure Trail from Caldern, the Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Emergency Responders’ Network.

Principal Advocate Theo Constantinou said Caldern supports and represents diverse members of Australia’s emergency services sector.

Caldern aims to break down barriers, inform communities, and support inclusion across the sector.”

It encourages people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds to explore employment and volunteer opportunities in fire, ambulance, police, and rescue services.

“Traditionally, the human face of emergency services organisations has lacked diversity,” Caldern states.

“However, escalating natural hazard risks due to social, environmental and economic drivers requires a transformation in how these risks are managed and who needs to manage them

Australia relies on over 235,000 emergency services volunteers, but numbers have declined in recent years. CALD representation in emergency services remains low, with only a small percentage of personnel from diverse backgrounds.

Caldern works to overcome these barriers, promoting equity, visibility, and participation in a sector vital to national safety.

The Pakenham Show provides an opportunity for the community to engage with Caldern, learn practical safety tips, and explore ways to get involved in emergency services.

Caldern will be displayed at Pakenham Show Saturday 14 March 2026. Members and their families who attend, can access multilingual Fire Safety and Beach Safety fridge magnets, along with other safety items available for under $10. Free Adventure Trail Show Bag reflects Caldern’s nonprofit focus on community education and engagement.

For more information visit https://www. caldern.org/

Art group is making waves

By Afraa Kori

A local community art group is making waves at this year’s Pakenham Show with a unique and environmentally conscious display.

Petal and Palette, a community art initiative started by Lara Canty in collaboration with MoyYan Neighbourhood House and Garfield Community Garden, is showcasing its first-ever entry at the Pakenham Show under the theme “Life in the Ocean.”

The group provides an inclusive space for people of all ages, including home schoolers and neurodiverse participants, to explore creativity in a relaxed and supportive environment.

Ms Canty said the aim of the group is to create a space for those who don’t necessarily fit into traditional sporting or social groups, giving them an opportunity to connect through art.

“We wanted a place where people can gather, share art, and encourage each other,” Canty said.

For their showpiece, Petal and Palette has constructed a life-sized whale from recycled cardboard and magazines.

The whale, mounted on wheels for mobility, will be suspended as part of the exhibition. Around it, children have crafted smaller fish and sea turtles from recycled newspaper, creating a vibrant underwater scene.

Canty explained the inspiration behind the project: “When I saw the underwater theme, I thought of the sea.

“We had all these recycled magazines, and we thought, why not make a whale? It’s been a true collaboration—mums and teens have helped with construction, and the kids have

around it.”

The

My 1st Year Foundation 2026

We would like to share with you a little about why Cardinia Primary School is so special and lives up to its motto of being a “Caring Family School”.

We are a small country school of 200 children, not far from Officer, Clyde and Pakenham.

We provide an excellent education in an environment that is nurturing, catering for every child’s needs. Our classrooms are closed plan, and our class sizes are small. Our experienced and highquality teachers are dedicated to providing the very best education for every child in our care. We have specialist teachers in the areas of Performing Arts, Visual Arts, Ausian and Science. Our Eco Zone is a place for our children to learn about sustainability and looking after our planet.

We believe that the social aspects of schooling are also important, and we provide a yard experience that is above and beyond expectations. We have four playgrounds; one of these is a fitness track and another has exercise equipment and outdoor musical instruments. Our children love playing in our two cubby houses, and make full use of our undercover basketball court, our netball court, our Ga Ga pit and so much more. Providing an education in a caring, family environment, our families love to join in with the many traditions we have in our school calendar.

The first of these each year is a whole school beach picnic. We invite families to our school throughout the year as we celebrate Easter, Mother’s, Father’s and Special Person’s days, our art and science show and our end of year Christmas Concert.

We have two Foundation classes, each with its own large classroom - and all children are off to a great start this year. Our teachers combine play-based learning and explicit instruction so that every child learns. We welcome enquiries from out of zone families for our 2027 Foundation classes.

We have vacancies now at some year levels, and for Foundation for 2026. Cardinia Primary School situated at 2405 Ballarto Road, Cardinia or telephone 5998 8323. cardinia.ps@education.vic.gov.au www.cardiniaps.vic.edu.au www.facebook.com/cardiniaps

Looking forward to meeting you. Susan Wepster, Principal

• A rural school environment

l h l i t

• A positive learning environment

• Caring and supporting staff

• Strong community support

• An excellent learning program

• Expressions of interest for Foundation members 2027

We

What a fantastic start to the school year we have had in Prep! The first few weeks have been filled with excitement, new friendships, and lots of learning as our students settle into school life.

The children have done an amazing job learning our classroom routines. We have been practising:

• Morning arrival procedures

• Unpacking and organising belongings

• Listening and following instructions

• Transitioning between activities

• Packing up at the end of the day

It has been wonderful to see their confidence grow each day!

A big focus in the first few weeks has been building positive relationships and learning how to be a great class member. We have been practising:

• Taking turns

• Sharing

• Using kind words

• Asking for help

• Being a safe and respectful learner

We are so proud of how the students are forming friendships and supporting one another.

Small Steps, Big Hearts: Where Faith Leads to Wisdom and Courage

The day finally arrived for sixty-one new Foundation (Prep) students to begin their school journey at St Clare’s Primary School in Officer. The students and their families started the year with many feelings andexpectations,someanxietyand hesitancy but also with big dreams forwhatliesahead.

The first ever school day began with a walk along the red carpet where families were welcomed by Principal, Ms Helen Staindl. Each student received a special medal of St Clare, which came all the way from Assisi in Italy as a reminder of ourschool’sPatronSaint.

Once inside, students and families were greeted by four very enthusiastic and excited teachers. The Foundation teachers and all staff are looking forward to a great year. They will work with the students as they become familiar with school life and routines, supporting them all to do their best in a kind and welcoming environment.

St Clare’s is a Catholic Primary School with about 550 students ranging from Foundation to Year Six. Our core beliefs are built around the teachings of Jesus with our school’s vision of faith, wisdom and courage at the heart of all we do.

As we begin this new school year, we welcome all new students and staff who join our vibrant school communityoflearners.

If you are interested in visiting St Clare’s, school tours can be arranged by contacting our administration staff. We also have anOpenDayonSaturday21March from10amto12pm.

Fifteen day luxury cruise

Imagine sailing down the Mississippi and the Ohio Rivers for 16 days taking in the sights of colourful New Orlean, musical Memphis and lovely Louisville.

Viking have announced their new itineraries for the region for 2027 and bookings are now open.

Sailing on board the Viking Mississippi, guests can choose the new fifteen day Bayous, Blues and Bluegrass itinerary, which operates between New Orleans and Louisville, with ports of call along the Mississippi and Ohio rivers.

A shorter option is the eight day Mississippi and Ohio River Explorer itinerary which offers a journey between Memphis and Louisville.

Viking Chairman and CEO Torstein Hagen believes wherever they are in the world, Viking guests are interested in the history, culture and culinary traditions of the destinations they visit.

“The towns and cities along the Mississippi and Ohio rivers are close to home for quite a few of our guests and are fantastic destinations that many have yet to discovering,” he said.

He believes the new itineraries expand the company’s destination-focused offerings on the Mississippi River.

The itineraries explore the rich heritage of the American South, birthplace of some of the country’s most beloved culinary and musical tradition with the 2027 Bayous, Blues and Bluegrass 15 day New Orleans to Louisville cruise.

Along the Mississippi River, grand homes preserve the South’s past. Step into Civil War history at Vicksburg and feel the rhythm of the blues in Greenville. Further north, sample smoky barbecue in Tennessee and discover Kentucky’s legacy of craftsmanship, from the powerful Louisville Slugger to smooth bourbon.

Also new for 2027 is the eight day Mississippi and Ohio River Explorer from Memphis to Louisville. Sail on the Ohio and Mississippi rivers as they wind past scenic wetlands, quaint towns and storied cities.

Classic American musical genres with the blues, rock ‘n’ roll and bluegrass arose along these waterways. Discover the legacies of icons such as BB King and Elvis Presley in Memphis, Tennessee. In Kentucky, Louisville’s baseball museum preserves the spirit of America’s favourite pastime while its bourbon distilleries honour generations of craftsmanship.

The 22-day Mississippi River Odyssey from New Orleans to St Paul gives guests the opportunity to revel in the charm of “America’s Great River” as the ship sets sail along the Mississippi.

Admire the historic mansions and grand homes atop its bluffs, and delve into America’s Civil War history.

Delight in the region’s famed Southern cuisine and sample Memphis’s renowned barbecue, alongside artisan beers. Birthplace of American music, blues, jazz and soul, the Mississippi celebrates its musical heritage in the towns and cities that line its legendary shores.

The eight-day Mississippi Delta Explorer from New Orleans to Memphis allows guests to discover Darrow, the gateway to the grand homes of the Lower Mississippi and explore the fascinating towns along the banks of the Mississippi that preserve the memory of the American South’s early history.

Learn about Natchez’s French and Acadian heritage and pay respects at the Vicksburg battlefield. Savour delicious Cajun and creole cuisine, as well as Memphis’s famous barbecue, as you celebrate musical legends in the birthplace of rock ’n’ roll.

Discover the Heartland of America over eight days from St Louis to St Paul as guests journey along the Upper Mississippi and hear stories of intrepid pioneers and the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

Walk in the footsteps of famed writer Mark Twain and learn about the Norwegian migration to the Midwest.

Enjoy the view as the luxury ship navigates through the river’s intricate lock system and experience the region’s many cultural treasures from ragtime, polka and Norwegian folk music to Wisconsin cheese, craft beer and hearty stews.

On the eight day New Orleans and Southern Charms leaving New Orleans for a roundtrip, discover the Lower Mississippi’s rich charm, history and hospitality. Explore historic estates and visit notable Civil War sites.

Sample the bustling French-flavoured port cities of New Orleans and Baton Rouge. Sway to the tempos of Dixieland jazz, gospel and blues. Savour gourmet Cajun and Creole cuisine, as well as traditional Southern fare. Join this special Viking cruise and see why local Cajuns say, “Laissez les bons temps rouler” (Let the good times roll).

The Viking Mississippi hosts 386 guests in 193 all-outside staterooms. The state-of-the-art Viking Mississippi is inspired by Viking’s awardwinning river and ocean ships and features elegant Scandinavian design, as well as public spaces that are familiar to guests but reimagined

for Mississippi River voyages. The ship’s cuttingedge design, expansive windows and comfortable amenities make the Viking Mississippi the first truly modern ship in the region. For further information please phone 138 747 or visit www.viking.com.

$5,695* pp FROM

Book now and choose your preferred offer valued up to $5,000 per couple: Free economy class flight offers, upgrade to business class with an airfare credit, or save on your cruise fare.

ROMANTIC DANUBE

Available until sold out on select river, ocean and expedition voyages*. Introducing our 2026-2028 River Voyages brochure. Uncover the immersive experiences that await you along the world’s waterways with Viking.

Budapest to Regensburg or vice versa

Explore Göttweig Abbey, one of Austria’s most revered monastic centres and make dumplings with Wachau Valley apricots.

8 DAYS

JUN-NOV 2026; 2027; MAR-NOV 2028

From $5,695pp in Standard Stateroom From

in Veranda Stateroom

PASSAGE TO EASTERN EUROPE

Bucharest to Budapest or vice versa

Sail the Danube’s Iron Gate, witness Hungary’s Puszta horsemen, and behold Budapest’s grandeur—Eastern Europe unveiled.

11 DAYS • 5 COUNTRIES • 8 GUIDED TOURS SET SAIL • APR-NOV 2026; MAR-NOV 2027; 2028

From $7,595pp in Standard Stateroom From $9,495pp in Veranda Stateroom

CAPITALS OF EASTERN EUROPE

Bucharest to Vienna or vice versa

Discover the “City of Waltzes,” Austria’s elegant capital and European centre of classical music. In Bratislava, view grand palaces from the Hapsburg era.

17 DAYS • 7 COUNTRIES • 12 GUIDED TOURS SET SAIL • APR-NOV 2026; MAR-NOV 2027; 2028

From $11,495pp in Standard Stateroom From $16,795pp in Veranda Stateroom

Tenant takes mould dispute to VCAT

By Violet Li

A Cranbourne public housing tenant said his two-year-old son cannot live with him because of severe mould contamination in his home, despite the state government spending about $27,000 of taxpayers’ money on repairs.

Local Jai Johnstone-Devere has taken the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing (DFFH) to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) since 2023, for the condition of his property.

He said the mould problem had persisted for more than a decade, but the issue became urgent when he found out he was having a son in 2023.

“We were looking over the house, making sure everything was fit and ready for a baby. And when we started realising that there’s a lot more mould than what we actually thought there was,” Jai said.

Jai said his mother previously lived in the property and had also reported mould issues to the housing authorities.

He claimed the government-commissioned maintenance workers repeatedly painted over mould rather than removing it, and that repairs carried out by contractors failed to address the underlying problem.

“They told me there was no mould there, then they painted over it and said it was fixed,” he said.

“I then cut holes in the walls and found that there was the exact same mould behind the walls. So, they didn’t fix anything. They just hid it.

“They did it with $27,000 worth of repairs.”

According to the latest VCAT order in February this year, the rental provider Homes Victoria was in breach of its duties to maintain the premises in good repair.

The state tribunal ordered the provider to engage an independent mould specialist to inspect the home and determine the source of contamination.

The inspection, carried out in February 2026, confirmed mould contamination inside the property.

Environmental testing found “extremely high” airborne mould levels in the laundry and high levels in two bedrooms.

The assessment identified “extreme” contamination inside the laundry wall cavity, where mould concentrations were measured at 350,000 spores per square centimetre.

The report suggests the moisture affecting the laundry and bedrooms likely stems from historic issues with water drainage caused by previously damaged or ineffective guttering.

One of the bedrooms had historic water ingress, the moisture source being the window.

The report recommends removing contaminated plaster walls in the laundry and the kitchen wall that adjoins the laundry, remediate the carpet and window timber ledge in the bedroom that had historic water ingress.

“I told them the roof is damaged. I told them there are other parts around the house that are damaged. They told me that it’s up to me to fix it,” Jai said.

Raoul Wainwright, acting CEO of the Victo-

rian Public Tenants Association, said through their advice line, they assist hundreds of public housing renters with maintenance concerns every year, and 8 per cent of all of those matters are about mould.

“We are deeply concerned about how mould problems in public housing are dealt with,” he said.

“Too often maintenance contractors are not completing tasks appropriately, which leads to more call-outs and more expense for the taxpayer.

“Most importantly, the public housing renter is left with the inconvenience and risk of living in a home that doesn’t meet any reasonable standards.

“That is why we have called on the Government to end the contracting out of maintenance functions and to bring them back in-house. This will improve living standards for public housing renters, it will save money and will ensure that publicly owned homes are properly maintained for the long term.”

Jai said living in the property had affected his health.

He claimed he suffers frequent sinus and chest infections when staying there and says his young son has not been able to move in.

“I have to tell my two-year-old that the house is broken and he can’t come inside,” he said.

Jai believed relocating his family would have been a simpler solution.

“Something needs to change because it’s not fair, and I know I’m not the only person dealing with this. Housing is a global problem, but the way we are dealing with it is not okay,” he said.

“They say that there’s no housing, and there’s

no funding, and there’s no this, and there’s no that, but yet they’ve wasted $27,000 of people’s money to fix a house.

“There’s no need to put me through all of this stress and hassle and phone calls every single day, and they could just move me from the start.”

A Department of Families, Fairness and Housing spokesperson said the Department works to ensure public housing stock is kept in a safe condition.

“Following the completion of significant mould remediation works in 2024, the department has again engaged a certified mould remediator to undertake further works at this property,” they said.

“The department is working with the renter to gain access to the property and complete the required works.”

Jai said he refused to grant access for further works because the department planned to send a cleaning company rather than a specialist mould remediation contractor.

“They want to clean and treat the mould. They don’t want to remove the mould as recommended by the inspection report. They don’t want to restore. They don’t want to investigate more,” he said.

Jai cited previous repair works at the property, which he said took more than six months, left the home uninhabitable while he continued paying rent, and still didn’t fix the mould issues.

“They said that the house is ready for return. I came down and checked it out. I found building materials everywhere, ciggy parts, alcohol cans, all my belongings were used, my speakers were moved, my fridge, everything in the house was completely different,” he said.

Taking charge and cleaning up

By Jensy Callimootoo

As many communities all across the nation participated in this year’s Clean up Australia Day, a special local group took charge to spruce up their own community.

On Thursday 26 February, Narre Warren Girl’s Brigade eagerly put on their bright yellow Clean Up Australia Day gloves – with a recycling bag in hand, they were ready to make a difference.

Led by the pioneer group, typically the oldest of the members, girls from the age of five were able to learn about and reflect on the importance of recycling as well as how each individual can play a part in reducing landfill waste.

Senior members, many in their teens, helped everyone understand the types of litter most commonly discarded and ensured recyclable materials were correctly sorted and allocated into the right bag.

While junior and cadet groups collected all the rubbish and litter they could find in the area.

A spokesperson from the girl’s brigade said that “it was encouraging to see such team work and responsibility displayed throughout the activity”

After all their hard work, the girls got to enjoy a well deserved Zooper Dooper.

With their treat in hand, each participant also received a certificate of participation.

Youngsters take the stage

By Jensy Callimootoo

In the early hours of a Sunday morning, 43 young theatre enthusiasts are preparing for their junior musical show just four short weeks away — some will be taking the stage for the very first time in their lives, while others are saying goodbye to a world they grew up in.

In early April, junior performing arts members from the ages of eight to eighteen will be taking part in a production of Disney’s Newsies.

Directed by Berwick local Victoria Hosburgh, the musical follows a 60 minute performance set in 1899 and is based on the New York City newsboys strike.

With themes of friendship, courage and loyalty at its core, main character Jack Kelly and his peers form a union, leading to a strike when a publisher raises prices.

Director Victoria is a theatre veteran herself, with her career in performing arts beginning in high school and extending to her tertiary studies.

Since 2009, Victoria has been involved in every Players Theatre production — the community musical production company based in Oakleigh East.

Under her belt, are much loved musicals, including Madagascar junior, Aladdin jr, Wizard of Oz jr and Frozen.

“I’ve always loved musicals,” Victoria said.

“My mum took me to musicals when I was a little kid and we would do that together.

“I started doing drama in high school and loved it and I ended up doing a degree in drama at Deakin and went down that path.”

Nearly two decades later, she’s directed and produced countless junior productions, gained the title of 2025 Aussie Broadway Junior Ambassador, and is the secretary at Player’s Theatre.

Her work also spans to teaching — with nearly 20 years of experience in teaching drama and performing arts to both primary and secondary year levels.

Based on the 1992 Disney Film, the Berwick director says that Newsies jr is her favorite to see come together.

“Newsies is my passion,” she said.

of Newsies Jr.

With Newsies as an already established and successful musical, Victoria first encountered the junior version in 2018 at the Junior Theatre Festival in Newcastle during a pilot production,

“They workshop the different junior shows to see what works, what doesn’t, things like, is the dance break too long? Is it too short? Do the harmonies work? Does the joke fall right?...they performed it and I watched and I went, ‘this is amazing’,” she said.

“I love the grit behind the story.

“It’s got a mix of everything. It’s got drama, it’s got comedy, it’s got beautiful themes of friendship and being brave and standing up for what you believe in.”

Casey based students, Kaleb, Grace and Tyler all started with Players when they were in primary school and now, Newsies jr, will be their last production with the theatre company.

Kaleb was the first to join the theatre company, taking part in Victoria’s second-year junior production of Mulan.

Later, he also convinced his peers from school, Grace and Tyler, to join the company.

Grace is now taking up an acting degree at the Victoria College Of the Arts.

With the new wave of kids starting off at Players, the three are preparing to say goodbye to the environment that helped raise them, prompting Kaleb to reminisce on his early years.

“For me, it sort of brings back flashbacks to when we were around that age,” Kaleb said.

The nostalgia was echoed by Grace.

“It’s really cool seeing where we were, and knowing we used to look up at the 18-yearolds so much, and being like, ‘oh, wait, that’s us now’.”

“It’s like the Player’s legacy lives on,” Kaleb interjects.

The three told Star News that through Players, they were able to build the confidence to perform on stage, from singing, dancing and acting but also in helping their work ethic and teamwork.

But at the time of starting off, none of them thought performing would become more than a hobby.

“It was more just like, yeah, ‘I’ll give it a go’.” Kaleb said.

“You know, I was into the school musicals and then Victoria was encouraging me to get into Players because she could see something I couldn’t.

“And I think it’s the same with all of us.

“She could see something that we couldn’t see.

“So it was just trying to get that encouragement to explore around a bit and venture out and try new things.”

“It’s a big blessing to have someone who believes in you before you do,” Grace added.

For many young performing arts enthusiasts, Players provides a welcoming space and an environment where those who aren’t often accepted in the outside world, can feel connected with like-minded peers all with one goal in mind — to perform.

“I’ve had one of our kids who is autistic who had told me this is the one place she feels like she can unmask, can just be herself because she feels accepted by everyone and that’s a really important thing especially at Play Theatre Company,” Victoria said.

“And that’s really important because we want it to be fun and we want it to be a safe place.”

“There’s acceptance here because we’re human and just because we happen to be a little bit more right-brained doesn’t make the love or the passion for what we do any less important.”

Victoria likens junior performers to extracurricular sports activities, such as footy practice or dance lessons, and says that there needs to be a greater acceptance of nontraditional “outlets of hobbies”

“Musical theatre specifically is a very niche area.”

“Kids who love musicals can be very rare in their own schools and a lot of schools do musicals and they do get that outlet.

“But there’s also schools that don’t and there’s also schools where it’s seen as not cool.

“We have kids auditioning for our shows who get into them and see that they have found their people and we’ve had these conversations with parents after they see the show and they’ve seen what it’s done for their kid and their confidence has grown.

“And that they’ve found where they belong.” Newsies Jr will be showing at the Christine Strachan Theatre from 4 April to 12 April. Tickets are available at trybooking.com/ events/landing/1431128

Acclaimed authors are visiting Bunjil Place Library this year

Book lovers will have the chance to meet some of Australia’s most acclaimed writers when two author events come to Bunjil Place Library in the coming weeks.

Connected Libraries has announced a pair of free events featuring bestselling crime writers Candice Fox and J.P. Pomare, as well as contemporary fiction authors Olivia Tolich and Bridie Blake:

■Love at First Page: In Conversation with Olivia Tolich & Bridie Blake

■Bunjil Place Library, Saturday 21 March at 2pm

Celebrate stories of love, connection and the messy, meaningful moments that bring characters (and readers) together. Olivia Tolich and Bridie Blake, both talented voices in contemporary fiction, will talk about the inspiration behind their novels, the craft of writing emotional stories, and what it means to touch a reader’s heart through fiction.

■A Night of Crime with Candice Fox & J.P. Pomare

■Bunjil Place Library, Wednesday 22 April at 7pm Dive into the darker side of storytelling with two masters of modern crime fiction. Candice Fox and J.P. Pomare will explore what draws readers to thrilling plots, memorable characters and the psychology of fear, plus insights into their writing processes and latest works. This event is perfect for fans of gripping page-turners and anyone interested in how suspenseful narratives are crafted.

Connected Libraries Adult Programs Manager Courtney Rushton said the events were designed to appeal to a wide range of readers.

“We’re delighted to bring these two very different but equally engaging author events to our community,” she said.

“From edge-of-your-seat crime to heartfelt stories about love and relationships, these events reflect the diverse tastes of our readers.

“They’re a great way for the community to celebrate books, meet authors and spark new conversations about storytelling.”

To book your free tickets to these events, visit: connectedlibraries.org.au

Don celebrates 100

By

Devon Meadows resident Donald Smith has celebrated a remarkable milestone, turning 100 years old surrounded by generations of family who gathered to mark the occasion.

The birthday celebration on Tuesday 3 March brought together Mr Smith’s children, grandchildren, many of his great-grandchildren and even one great-great-grandchild. His granddaughter Kim Balfour said the day was a special moment for the whole family.

“It was a really good turnout,” she said. Born in Camberwell, one of 10 children, Mr Smith grew up in modest conditions where the large family often had to improvise.

“They didn’t have enough beds, so they used to sleep toe-to-toe…” Ms Balfour said.

“And they didn’t have enough shoes for all the kids – the last one up missed out.”

Mr Smith served in World War II in Papua New Guinea as part of an airport section, a role that meant he avoided some of the worst frontline experiences many soldiers faced.

Outside of military service, he has led a colourful and active life.

As a young man, he was an accomplished cyclist, winning a 100-mile race at the age of 44. He also enjoyed success in motorbike sidecar racing and was later inducted into the Hall of Fame of the Hartwell Motorcycle Club. By trade, Mr Smith was a painter, working on homes across Melbourne, including properties in Toorak, before retiring at the age of 74.

the

Successful festival celebrations

on Sunday, with an event titled Blossom of Harmony: Lantern Festival Gala.

Many attended the Hallam Community Theatre to highlight the cultural significance of the traditional Chinese Lantern Festival while encouraging multicultural understanding and connection within the City of Casey.

The program featured a variety of choral and cultural performances designed to showcase music and traditions associated with the festival.

In addition to the stage performances, attendees participated in interactive lantern riddles with prizes and took part in a lucky draw, where the grand prize was an air conditioner.

The event was supported by the Victorian Multicultural Commission, a celebration that was open to families, local residents, and community members of all ages, offering an opportunity to experience culture, music, and community together.

Many attended the Hallam Community Theatre on Sunday to celebrate the Chinese Lantern Festival. (Gary Sissons: 537367)

He also spent time training greyhounds and developed a lifelong passion for horse racing.

Family has always been central to his life. He was married to his wife for 67 years before her passing and has remained a devoted grandfather and great-grandfather.

Ms Balfour described her grandfather as witty, kind and fiercely independent.

Even at 100, he still lives independently and drives himself to lunch each day at Silks Cranbourne, where staff know him well.

“He’s very witty. He’s always been amazing to all of us, always there to support us all as much as he can,” she said.

“He’s so young at heart.”

When asked about the secret to reaching 100, the answer is simple: Mr Smith has never smoked or drunk alcohol, and has always focused on eating well.

For his family, his longevity has meant a lot.

“Not many people reach 100, and for him to reach it and be as able-bodied and good in the mind as he is incredible,” Ms Balfour said.

“He was annoyed that he got a letter from the King. He was obviously happy, but he would have preferred it to be from the Queen.”

attended the Hallam Community Theatre on Sunday to celebrate the Chinese Lantern Festival. (Gary Sissons: 537367)

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537367)

Doors open to new Learning Centre

Casey Grammar School officially opened the Joan Reid Learning Centre this month.

Chairman of the Board Malcolm Wells officially declared the building open on Tuesday 3 March, cutting the ribbon alongside Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards, principal Fiona Williams, and school captains Ryan and Sienna.

Parents, principals from neighbouring schools, current and past board members and education leaders attended, including the Chief Executive of Independent Schools Victoria and the Executive General Manager of Ecumenical Schools Australia.

“This building represents far more than new facilities. It reflects who we are,” Mr Wells said.

“It was Casey Grammar School’s values that led me to choose the school for my own children in its early days, and those same values continue to underpin our culture today.”

At the heart of the new Learning Centre is the school’s library, designed as a central gathering place where students can learn and connect.

Mrs Williams spoke about the significant trees that the builders and architects preserved throughout the project.

The trees were planted and donated in 1996 by the school’s patron, Dame Elisabeth Murdoch.

“These trees link our past to our present, and remind us that we are stewards of something that has been lovingly built over time,” Mrs Williams said.

“We wanted to honour that legacy as we open doors to the future.”

Assisted by school captains Ryan and Sienna, Mrs Williams unveiled honorary plaques for each preserved tree.

The Learning Centre honours one of the school’s founders, Joan Reid, who later became the inaugural chair of the Board. The original Joan Reid Learning Centre was removed in 2024, with the new building now offering expansive spaces and modern facilities for students.

In her address, school captain Sienna reflected on the deeper meaning of the day.

One Harmony member Aileen A’Vard, and her husband Wayne are excited about the upcoming Creative Wellness Fair in Cranbourne West Community Hub on Saturday 21 March. (Stewart Chambers: 538677)

New fair to debut in Cranbourne West

By Violet Li

A new community event focused on creativity, wellbeing and cultural connection will debut in Cranbourne West later this month, as One Harmony prepares to host its first Creative Wellness Fair.

The non-profit group, which promotes personal growth and community harmony through educational and wellbeing activities, will bring together families, children and seniors for a day of workshops, performances and cultural experiences to Cranbourne West Community Hub on Saturday 21 March, from 10am to 4pm.

Organiser Aileen A’Vard said the organisation aims to strengthen relationships within families and communities by creating opportunities for people to learn, share and connect.

Founded formally around three to five years ago, the organisation grew out of informal community gatherings where people supported each other through discussions, shared meals and cultural activities.

“Many years ago, when I first came to Australia, I didn’t know anybody. I didn’t know much of an Asian community,” Aileen recalled the origin of the organisation.

“And then there was this Asian community that suddenly embraced me through the food and through talks. And I thought, oh, it’s a community that I felt I belong.

“In those days, you know, you start something from your home. After COVID, they just found that doing things from home is a little bit difficult, so we started to go out to parks where sometimes they do tai chi and yoga, and then now we go to community centres.”

Since then, One Harmony has run children’s value-based classes, parent sessions, philosophy discussions, tai chi and yoga, and community cooking activities across different parts of Melbourne, including regular programs at Lynbrook Community Centre.

The upcoming fair marks the group’s first major public event in Cranbourne West.

The event will feature a range of family-friendly activities, including face painting, candle-making, bookmark crafting and a family adventure challenge. Adults can also take part in wellbeing sessions such as yoga, tai chi, nutrition talks and flower-arrangement demonstrations.

Residents will also be able to learn practical self-care skills, including foot massage techniques that participants can practise at home.

“Today is about opening more than a building. It’s about opening doors to connection and achievement,” she said.

In addition to a new library, staff and students can now enjoy new classrooms, a STEM room, a Senior School study hall, and a multipurpose foyer for events, learning and art displays.

The project also includes a new courtyard featuring a nature play area and playground.

Entertainment throughout the day will highlight the area’s cultural diversity, with performances including lion dance, African drumming, local singer-songwriters and traditional music such as the didgeridoo.

Aileen said the event is about celebrating art and culture.

“It is about bringing young people and older people through our activities, a lot of which are multi-generational.”

WHAT’S ON

Emergent 2025

Short film, doco and animation night that showcases talented young filmmakers in the region.

• Thursday 12 March 7.30pm at Bunjil Place outdoor plaza screen; free event.

Berwick Farmers Market

No craft market with 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 14 March 8am-12pm at Old Cheese Factory, Homestead Road, Berwick.

Car Boot Sale

Stall holders wanted. Earn money while having a quick cleanout of your trash-and-treasure, or come and grab a bargain. All outdoor Sites available: 3x3 - $20, car only $10, 6x3m - $30

• Saturday 14 March 8am-2pm at Akoonah Park, Berwick; entry free. Bookings form: berwickshow. org.au or 0407 866 049.

Horse Gear Market

Clear the tack room and fill your wallet, or grab a bargain. Stall holders wanted. All outdoor Sites 6x3m - $30 and 6x6m including car and float $35

• Saturday 14 March 8am-2pm at Akoonah Park, Berwick; entry free. Bookings form: berwickshow. org.au

Tree Walk Park open day

Family-friendly multicultural community event bringing together residents, local businesses and civic leaders to strengthen neighbourhood connections, celebrate diversity and promote community wellbeing.

• Saturday 14 March 10.30am at Berwick Waters Tree Walk Park, Crosswater Boulevard, Clyde North; free event.

Open Space: Cookin’ On 3 Burners with Stella Angelico Trailblazers from the worlds of funk, hip hop, soul and future sounds come together for a music event like no other. Melbourne’s funk power trio Cookin’ On 3 Burners, with GRID Series Release Party feat. M4RTHA, Kiid Koda, ACP & Jordz.

• Saturday 14 March 6pm-9pm at Bunjil Place plaza, Narre Warren; free event. Details: bunjilplace.com.au/events/open-space-cookin&percn t;E2%80%99-on-3-burners-stellaangelico

SWAN Cobbers BBQ

Meet and chat with other dads, granddads and father figures of children with a rare or undiagnosed genetic condition. Delicious, fresh-cooked pizza lunch.

• Sunday 15 March 11am-1pm at Cranbourne Scout Hall, South Gippsland Highway, Cranbourne; free event. Bookings required: trybooking. com/DIXIT

Autumn/ Winter Gardening Workshop

Learn about what produce grows best in Autumn and Winter. Learn how to prepare soil, choose the right crops, fertilising, pests and diseases, companion planting and plenty of practical tips

• Tuesday 17 March 10am-12pm at Old Cheese Factory, Homestead Road, Berwick; $5. Bookings: events.humanitix.com/autumn-winter-vegetablegardening

Harmony Day cooking

Celebrate diversity through the joy of food. An interactive cooking activity.

• Tuesday 17 March 11am-1pm at Autumn Place Community Hub, Doveton; free event. Bookings essential on 9792 7382. Family history group

Narre Warren & District Family History Group hosts guest speaker and professional genealogist Alan Fleming. Learn how to search millions of records in FamilySearch much more quickly by using full text search.

• Wednesday 18 March 7.30 pm at 110 High Street Berwick (behind the Guides building); $5. Visitors always welcome. Details: Jane 0412 084 671 or president@nwfhg.org.au

Singers wanted Cranbourne Chorale is recruiting for its non-auditioned adult community choir for mixed voices. Our repertoire is a mix of uplifting songs. Feel free to visit us without obligation, the first four sessions are free of charge.

• Wednesday rehearsals 7.30pm at The Factory, Building 5, 65 Berwick-Cranbourne Rd, Cranbourne East. Details: Jenny, 0438 358 032. Dads Matter Family Campfire Night

A free, fun night for dads, grandfathers, their children and family. Games, entertainment, drumming, marshmallow toasting, a free sausage sizzle (halal) and veggie burgers.

• Thursday 19 March, 6.30pm-8.30pm at Cranbourne West Community Hub, 4 Flicka Boulevard; free event. Registrations: trybooking.com/DJDNI

Creative Wellness Fair

A free creative wellness event celebrating arts, culture, and mindful living. Tai Chi, Yoga and Zentangle and more family fun activities as we explore how ancient wisdom enriches modern life

— nurturing harmony in body, mind, and community. All ages welcome. Presented by We at One Harmony Organisation.

• Saturday 21 March 10am-4pm at Cranbourne West Community Hub, 4 Flicka Boulevard, Cranbourne West; free entry. Details: facebook.com/ creativewellnessfair

Bakhtar Casey Nawroz Festival

A celebration of culture, diversity and unity. Presented by Bakhtar Cultural Organisation.

• Saturday 21 March 1pm at 23-47 Gunns Road, Hallam.

Love at First Page

Celebrate stories of love, connection and the messy, meaningful moments that bring characters (and readers) together. Contemporary fiction authors Olivia Tolich and Bridie Blake talk about the inspiration behind their novels, the craft of writing emotional stories, and what it means to touch a reader’s heart through fiction.

• Saturday 21 March 2pm at Bunjil Place Library, Narre Warren.

Open Space: Wild Gloriosa and Hari Sivanesan

Award-winning Tamil-Australian artist Wild Gloriosa brings her captivating blend of neo-soul, R&B, and jazz, along with veena virtuoso Hari Sivanesan, Studio J Dance and Kerfew Collective DJ’s. Sneak preview of gallery exhibition The Offbeat Sari.

• Saturday 21 March 6pm-9pm at Bunjil Place plaza, Narre Warren; free event. Details: bunjilplace.com.au/events/open-space-wild-gloriosaand-hari-sivanesan

All Holden Car Show

Classic Kingswoods and Monaros to newer Holdens, HSVs, Brock/HDT specials and Walkinshaw performance builds — this is the ultimate celebration of Holden pride. Holden displays across every era, trophies and prizes, live music, BBQ, food trucks, kid activities, car product stalls, charity raffles. Presented by Rotary Club of Dandenong and Endeavour Hills.

• Sunday 22 March 9am-2pm (bump-in entrant cars from 7am) at Greaves Reserve, Bennet Street, Dandenong. Details: rotaryclubofgreaterdandenong.org/stories/2026-dandenong-allholden-car-show

Curator talk

Talk by Priya Khanchandani, a London-based writer and curator of The Offbeat Sari - an exhibition of more than 50 contemporary saris.

• Sunday 22 March 2pm-3.30pm at Bunjil Centre function room, Narre Warren. Free event. Bookings: tickets.bunjilplace.com.au/11116

U3A Cranbourne

Three new classes for 2026 - mosaics with talented artist Tony Shannon (Tuesdays 12pm), beginner Italian with tutor Jan (Wednesdays 10am12pm) and Italian study group with tutor Jan (Thursdays 12.30pm-2.30pm). New members over 50 welcome. Our membership fee is $55 per annum and you can join in as many classes as you wish.

• Details: u3acranbourne.org.au Free Pickleball All equipment supplied.

• Mondays 5.30pm-6.30pm and Wednesdays 10am-11am at Olive Road sporting complex, Eumemmerring; free event. Bookings via trybooking.com

Casual pickleball

Just turn up early to secure your place. All equipment supplied.

• Fridays 10am-11.30am and Sundays 9am10am at Olive Road sporting complex, Eumemmerring. All equipment supplied, $5.40 per session.

Weekly badminton

Adults welcome (Mondays 7pm-9pm) and ladies and retired (Wednesdays 12pm-2.30pm).

• Hallam Badminton Club, Frawley Road Recreation Reserve; $5.

Meditation and positive thinking

Learn how to make your mind your best friend through open-eyed meditation. Led by Bhavani Padmanabhan, these free sessions are open to all. Presented by Bakhtar Community Organisation and The Brahma Kumaris Organisation.

• Saturdays 2pm at 23-47 Gunns Road, Hallam. Registrations: 9703 2555 or 0403 551 596.

DnD at Orana

Dungeons and Dragons (DnD) is an inclusive tabletop, fantasy, role-playing game.

• Second Saturday of each month, 1pm-9pm at Orana Community Place, 16/18 Playwright St, Clyde North. Details: Jonathan Whelan, thestoryweaver.dnd@gmail.com

Chair dancing

Would you enjoy exercising from the comfort of your chair? Includes fun and uplifting songs and different styles and eras of music

• Wednesdays 10.45am-11.30am on Wednesdays at Timbarra Community Centre; $8 per session. Details: admin@berwicknc.com.au or 9704 1863.

Craft classes

Join Berwick Activities Group’s Elizabeth to discover the world of papercraft and have a chat with like-minded people.

• Tuesdays 10am-noon at Timbarra Community Centre; $5 per class, all materials supplied. Details: admin@berwicknc.com.au or 9704 1863.

BADFolk Club

Berwick and District Folk Club meets on the third Friday of each month.

• Doors open at 6.30pm, with the music running from 7pm to 10pm with entry $15. Details: badfolkclub.org or Edward, 0418 535 264.

Berwick Springs VIEW Club

Affiliated with The Smith Family, the not-for-profit organisation raises funds for 10 Learning for Life students to assist with education expenses. Monthly lunches with a guest speaker, as well as casual morning tea and lunch for interested ladies.

• First Monday of each month, 11.15am at Berwick Springs Hotel function room. Details: Shirley, 0438 191 759 or berwicksprings.viewclub@ gmail.com

Combined Probus Club of Narre Warren

The club welcomes men and women for bowling, armchair travel, book clubs, walk and talk, happy snappers and cards.

• Details: Heather, hsims14@gmail.com

Casey Cardinia Life Activities Club

Weekly social activities with dancing, trips away

via coach, a weekly morning coffee club, monthly Saturday country pub lunches, monthly Tuesday dine-outs, a weekly walking group, a weekly table tennis group, seasonal daytime musical theatre outings, entertainment function days and more.

• Thursdays 2pm for socialising and low-key dancing at Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House at 21A Bemersyde Drive or Wednesdays 10am for coffee and chats at the new François cafe in front of Myer in Fountain Gate. Details: Garry 0409 785 400.

Men’s Shed Junction Village Inc.

Retired men are most welcome to visit the Shed and have a chat/cuppa to check out our fully equipped Shed (lots of “toys” to play with!) and see what we do for the community. They do not need any woodwork experience as Shed members are happy to pass on their experience in an enjoyable and friendly atmosphere.

• Mondays 9am-11.30am and Wednesdays and Fridays from 9am-2.30pm at 41 Craig Road, Junction Village. Details: Garry, 0408 141 734. Cranbourne Senior Citizens Club

We meet weekly for a range of different events, including bus trips, community days, games, coffee and chat, bingo, dancing and carpet bowls. Weekly activity times – Line Dancing Mon.10am12pm, New Vogue and Old Time Dance Tue. 1pm3:30pm, Carpet Bowls Wed. & Sat. 11:30am2:30pm, Bingo Thur. 11am-2pm.

• 1 Codrington St, Cranbourne. Details: Marilyn, 0432 107 590 or facebook.com/ groups/487808127399953

Narre Warren Senior Citizens Centre

A friendly seniors Club offering many activities, including dancing, garden group, indoor carpet bowls, table tennis, gentle exercises and friendly card games.

• main club day on Wednesdays, 9.30am-3pm at 192-196 Centre Road near the Narre Warren Station. Details: 9783 7112, 0426 736 467, or narrewarrenseniors@gmail.com

Blind Bight Community Centre

Craft gift making for adults, Tuesdays 12.30pm to 2.30pm; $3 per class. Playgroup, Wednesdays 10.30am-noon; $5 per family. Knit and crochet, Wednesdays 12pm-2pm. Line dancing, Wednesdays 1pm-2pm; $10 per class.

• 42 Anchorage Dr, Blind Bight. Bookings: blindbightcommunitycentre.com.au

Scrabble in Berwick

Fridays 9.30am-12.00pm at Berwick Neighbourhood Centre, 112 High Street, Berwick. Details: David, 0433 566 456.

U3A Casey – Activities for Seniors

With over 580 members and 75 different classes, U3A Casey offers you a wide range of activities including Arts & Crafts, Music, Book Clubs, Social Clubs, Low-Impact Sports, Fitness, Cooking … and many more.

You can attend up to three classes for free to see if you like the classes before registering to join U3A Casey.

Membership from January to December is $60, or from July to December is $30, which allows you to choose to join any of our classes (subject to available vacancies).

• Details: u3acasey.org.au, 0493 280 458 or caseyu3a@gmail.com

Furniture Spray Painters

Seth has immediate impact

By David Nagel

Seth O’Hehir had quite the impact in his 54 balls of batting and 12.1 overs of bowling for Kooweerup A Grade this season.

That’s all it took - in his one and only game for the summer - to score 66 not out and take a stunning 8/41 in the Demons’ 189-run victory over Clyde at the Kooweerup Recreation Reserve.

It’s a ground O’Hehir knows well, with the recently turned 21-year-old one of the rising young key-position talents in West Gippsland football.

While Kooweerup cricketers were preparing for the season to start in early October, the focus for O’Hehir was on captaining the Southern Districts Crocs reserves team in the Northern Territory Football League.

But an injury received in round nine, on November 29 against Nightcliff, saw him forced to return home early and undergo reconstructive surgery on his left shoulder.

Sport was all of a sudden off the agenda, with O’Hehir appearing no chance of building on a promising junior cricket career.

He started in under 12s, before moving to Tooradin to play with close friend Tyler Evans; who he just pipped for best on ground honours in the under-18 premiership win in 2021/22.

“We still argue now about who should have won it, and we probably always will,” O’Hehir said with a chuckle.

“I made 37 and Tyler made 33 not out, but he took a wicket and I dropped a catch off his bowling that probably cost him.

“That was probably my greatest achievement in cricket; to win best on ground in a grand final.”

O’Hehir had no intentions of playing cricket this season, but got the itch after tentatively rolling over his right-arm medium pacers in a social T20 game between the Kooweerup cricket and football clubs in February.

“I haven’t played for the last two seasons, being up north, so was really missing cricket and it was nice to get out in the middle,” he said.

“They tried to get me to play A Grade because we were short on numbers, but I didn’t think it would play out the way it did.

“I thought I’d give it a go but I certainly didn’t expect 66 not out and eight-fa, that’s for sure.

“It’s left me wondering what it could have been like if I played the whole year.”

His batting on day one set the scene for his stellar all-round performance, but it almost didn’t occur.

“We spun the wheel to see who was going to bat from six to 11, and I kind of cracked it a bit and said ‘I’m not playing if I’m batting at 10,” he said

with a laugh.

“I wanted to bat as high as I could and Tom Cairns, the captain, looked after me a bit.

“I told the boys before the game that I was going to make 50, and got a few laughs, but I was serious.

“I got very lucky, there were three or four dropped catches, one of them was quite early and a couple were a bit hard; but one was a sitter when I was on about 13.

“Then I took two wickets on the first day, and they weren’t my proudest wickets.

“The first one was a bottom edge down leg, and the second one wasn’t much better, and I was happy just to walk away with two-fa.

“But I felt a bit looser on Saturday, they were coming out a bit better, but no way did I expect to take eight wickets and all six wickets on the second day.

Sheza heading for the stars

By David Nagel

Pakenham-trained filly Sheza Alibi has rubberstamped her credentials as one of the up and coming stars of the Australian turf with a dominant victory in her first test at Group 1 level on Saturday.

The Peter Moody and Kat Coleman-trained daughter of Saxon Warrior/Sheza Gypsy could hardly have been more impressive, making a one-act affair of the $1m Randwick Guineas (1600m) in Sydney.

There was extra cause for celebration with stable jockey Luke Nolen chalking up the 2000th win of his career; a journey highlighted by a close association with Moody’s undefeated mare Black Caviar.

And while comparisons with the great mare are clearly premature, there’s no doubt that the three-year-old has exceptional talent on her side.

“She’s sneaking up; I said that the first day I rode her, they just can’t overcome difficulty in runs and win as easily as she did,” Nolen explained post-race.

“She did that at Flemington, my first ride on her on raceday; then again in the Sandown Guineas.

“It didn’t quite all play out to plan just then, but we ended up with a soft run behind the hardest to beat (Autumn Boy); he dragged us everywhere we needed to be and she grew wings at the furlong. “She’s an exceptional horse.”

Coleman was equally as effusive in her

praise; clearly moved by the fillies’ dominance.

“She’s just something special this filly; she’s put the writing on the wall previously but this has been her hardest test to date and to put a quality field away like that…Wowee, I’m shaking,” she said.

“I think that she’s something really, really special and she deserved her spot here today.”

The stunning performance of Sheza Alibi had an immediate effect on spring markets, being backed in from $26 to $11 to win this year’s Cox Plate at Flemington.

Coleman indicated there was a high possibility she would now be tucked away and headed for those spring riches.

“We’ll see how she comes through this; the plan always was to have a pretty light autumn because she had such a deep spring preparation,” she said.

“Her and I will be on the road back to Melbourne tomorrow (Sunday) morning; we’ll take her home and see how she comes through it.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if we put her away now and save her for the spring.”

The Moody/Coleman yard almost completed a perfect 20 minutes of racing when Gallant Son ran a close up second to Caballus in the time-honoured $2m Newmarket Handicap (1200m) at Flemington.

Gallant Son last stepped out in the Group 1 Oakleigh Plate (1100m) on February 21; running third behind Tropicus and Hedged.

“I got a few through the gate and then got a couple under the bat down the order.”

One wicket in particular stood out; with O’Hehir even impressing himself.

The former leg-spinner, who gave up the craft after growing too much, nailed the perfect delivery.

“I can’t remember the batters’ name, but he played front foot defence and it went straight through the gate; he just sat there for a second, looking back and forth at his bat and the stumps; that was a pretty good nut,” he said.

O’Hehir said his success over the last fortnight and had re-pricked his interest in the game.

“I’d love to give it a go, but I like fishing and travelling and then there’s football and swimming and generally trying to keep fit,” he said.

“But I know what I’m like, I’m very passionate about everything I do, so if I do get sucked into

training, I’ll probably play a full season.

“I wouldn’t mind having a crack at it and seeing how high I can go.”

Despite his dream fortnight on the field, O’Hehir does have one regret; that his biggest supporter was not on hand to witness it.

“I was stoked, it was a dream game, but the part that annoyed me the most was my pop Marty, he never misses a footy game or cricket game, he loves his cricket, he loves watching me play, but he wasn’t there for the batting or the bowling,” he said.

“I ripped into him about missing my batting and he said he would be there on Saturday, but I said ‘don’t worry about it…we’re bowling’

“I ended up taking eight-fa; so, I wish he was there to see it.”

Proud Pumas create history

WOMEN’S BLACK

History was made on Saturday as Pakenham Pumas Women’s Black etched its name into the club record books, claiming the first ever women’s premiership in Pakenham Pumas history with a commanding 8–0 grand final victory.

In a performance worthy of the big stage, Emily Devine delivered a masterclass on the mound.

The Pumas ace struck out 10 batters across five shutout innings, allowing just three hits and keeping the opposition scoreless to seal the historic win.

Calm, composed and in complete control, Devine’s pitching set the tone for a team determined to make history.

The Pumas wasted no time getting on the board; in the opening inning, Katherine Walton stepped up and delivered the first run of the grand final, sparking cheers from the passionate Pumas supporters who packed the stands.

Pakenham built momentum in the second inning, adding two more runs and applying pressure on the scoreboard as the team’s confidence continued to grow.

Walton proved pivotal in the heart of the lineup, driving in three runs and leading the offensive charge.

She was joined in the hit column by Olivia Garcia, Emily Devine, and Sofia, each contributing at the plate in a well-rounded team performance.

The Pumas also showcased aggressive base running, stealing eight bases throughout the game. Olivia Garcia and Holly Lunn led the charge on the basepaths, constantly pressuring the defence and turning small opportunities into scoring chances.

Defensively, the Pumas were flawless.

The team played error-free baseball, with Carni Dowsett leading the way in the field and making an impressive 11 defensive plays to help shut down any opposition momentum.

When the final out was recorded, celebrations erupted as players, coaches and supporters realised the significance of the moment.

The victory not only secured the premiership, but also marked a historic milestone as the first women’s team in Pakenham Pumas history to win a championship.

For a team that has worked tirelessly all season, the result was the perfect reward; a grand final performance defined by strong pitching, smart base running, flawless defence and a group of players determined to leave their mark on club history.

And on Saturday, they did exactly that.

SL80

FANTASTIC HITTING PROPELS PUMAS TO VICTORY OVER CHELSEA

Pakenham Pumas SL80 capped off an incredible season with a 9–7 victory over Chelsea SL80 on Sunday at the Pumas’ home ground, using a powerful offensive display and aggressive base running to secure the win.

The Pumas outhit Chelsea 11-5 in the contest. Chelsea struck first, scoring on a single in the top of the first inning before adding another run in the second on a ground out. The Pumas responded to tie the game at two when Eli delivered a clutch single to bring a run home. Pakenham seized control in the bottom of the third inning. Ollie blasted a solo home run to left field to spark the rally, An-

gus followed with an RBI single, and Eli delivered again with a two-run single to extend the lead.

The Pumas added even more firepower in the fourth when Angus launched a three-run home run to centre field, putting Pakenham firmly in command. Timmy started on the mound for the Pumas, allowing four hits and five runs over three and two-thirds innings while striking out six and walking seven. Ollie came on in relief to help close out the game.

The Pumas lineup delivered throughout the game, collecting 11 hits. Ollie and Eli each recorded three hits, while Liam added two hits in three at-bats. Julia showed great patience at the plate, drawing three walks, helping the team reach six walks overall. Speed on the bases also played a major role, with Timmy, Ollie, and Angus each stealing multiple bases as the Pumas racked up 11 stolen bases in total.

Defensively, the team was flawless, not committing a single error.

The victory completes an unbeaten season for the Pakenham Pumas SL80, an even more impressive achievement considering the team often played with the minimum seven players throughout the year. The group now looks forward to staying together for the upcoming Winter Season.

A huge thank you goes to Greg and Gregg for coaching the team, Nick and Jason for stepping in when required and helping set up the diamonds, and Brad for his assistance during the finals.

Thanks also to Sophie for scoring every game, and to Lauren, Michelle, Lorelle, Andrea, Nicki, and everyone who helped out in the canteen.

To all the parents and families who ensured the players made it to training and games each week; your support made this season possible. Finally, thanks to the club for its ongoing support and leadership, with special shout-outs to Jess, Nicki, and Jo. And a special thank you to Huffy and Scotto for their advice during the final. An outstanding season, a fantastic team effort and there’s plenty to look forward to in the Winter Season ahead.

STATE LEAGUE 4

Pakenham Pumas State 4 delivered an impressive all-round performance on Sunday, defeating the Berwick City Cougars 10–6 in an entertaining contest highlighted by a dominant hitting display from Dylan Elderidge.

Elderidge was the standout at the plate, producing a perfect day with four hits from four at-bats.

The in-form Puma collected singles in the first and second innings before smashing two doubles later in the game, helping drive the Pumas’ offence and keeping constant pressure on the Cougars defence. The Pumas struck first in the opening inning when Travis Hough lined a single to bring home the first run of the game. Berwick quickly responded in the bottom half, capitalising on a fielding error to even the scores at one apiece. Pakenham wasted little time reclaiming control of the contest. In the second inning the visitors exploded with a four-run

rally. Jacob Gruis drove in a run with a single, before Elderidge continued his hot streak with a base hit that brought home two more. Scott Dale added a sacrifice fly to cap off the inning and give the Pumas a handy 5–1 advantage. The Pumas kept the scoreboard ticking over in the third when Angus lifted a fly ball that allowed another run to cross the plate, extending the lead to 6–2. On the mound, Andrew Hemmes put together a solid outing for Pakenham. The right-hander worked six innings, allowing six hits and six runs –only three of them earned – while striking out four and issuing three walks. Offensively, the Pumas were relentless, finishing with 12 hits for the game. Elderidge and Scott Dale each drove in two runs, while Travis Hough also enjoyed a strong outing with two hits from three at-bats.

Perhaps the most eye-catching statistic came on the base paths, where the Pumas turned the pressure up even further. Pakenham stole an incredible 17 bases, with Jacob Gruis, Brad Jones, Andrew Hemmes, Scott Dale, Jason Rossitt and Elderidge all swiping multiple bags in an aggressive display of running.

The win showcased the depth and energy of the Pakenham lineup, with the Pumas combining timely hitting, smart base running and steady pitching to secure a well-earned victory over their local rivals.

-Jessica Moulding

Great season ends for Lions on tough day at Mulgrave

PAKENHAM BOWLS

It was a perfect day for bowls when Pakenham 1 lined up against Mulgrave Country Club 1 at Mulgrave for the midweek pennant grand final.

The sun was shining, it was warm without being hot, there was little wind and the greens were beautifully prepared.

The only thing wrong about the occasion was that in a departure from customary practice, the grand final was not staged at a neutral venue. It is said that at Div 1 level players should have the ability to adjust; nevertheless, your opponent always has an advantage playing on their home deck.

Pakenham fielded a side unchanged from the one which had comprehensively beaten Dandenong in the preliminary final…if it ain’t broke don’t fix it!

With “Nifty’s” rink leading the way with a lead of nine shots to two, Pakenham was in front by four shots after the first fifteen ends and looking strong, despite being marginally behind on the other two rinks.

As the game progressed, there were many great shots played by bowlers from both sides but the Lions were able to hold onto a narrow

overall lead.

However, the game began to turn by the thirtieth end when completely against the pattern

of play, one Pakenham rink dropped a six, allowing Mulgrave to snatch a two-shot lead.

From that point, the home side slowly drew

away but the Lions fought back and after 42 ends were only one shot behind with one up, one down and one level.

Whoever wrote the script for this game would have been delighted with the situation at the start of the business ends; with 15 left to play, both sides had one up, one down and one level and the scores were even at 45 all!

As late as the 54th of 63 ends, there were only two shots in it but then, over the dying stages of the game, Mulgrave found another gear and charged home to win by a game-high margin of 14 shots.

The Lions may not have won the grand final but they have had a great season and one that has given them and Pakenham reason to be proud.

The best rink with 23 to 16 was “Nifty” Nev Brown (S), Ned Courtin (3), Claire Smyth (2) and David Leitch (L). The other members of the team were: Chris “Foxy” Fox (S), David Saint (3), Max Mannik (2) and David Laird (L) and John “JP” Parker (S), “Rockit” Rod Lewis (3), John Ha-

and

Meet Our Management Team at FiRST Early Learning Pakenham.

Meet Our Management Team at FiRST Early Learning Pakenham.

Nicole and Melina bring years of experience and a genuine love for what they do. As a great duo, they balance big-picture leadership with day-today support, creating a positive and welcoming environment for children, families, and educators. Their combined strengths help keep our centre running smoothly while continually improving the quality of care and learning we provide. They’re approachable, supportive, and committed to making FiRST Early Learning Pakenham a wonderful place to grow, learn, and work.

Nicole and Melina bring years of experience and a genuine love for what they do. As a great duo, they balance big-picture leadership with day-today support, creating a positive and welcoming environment for children, families, and educators. Their combined strengths help keep our centre running smoothly while continually improving the quality of care and learning we provide. They’re approachable, supportive, and committed to making FiRST Early Learning Pakenham a wonderful place to grow, learn, and work.