Though Cardinia residents are undoubtedly aware of the many perks of living in the region, this feature showcases the best aspects of life in Cardinia Shire, from its natural wonders and the myriad of tourist attractions to the great education options, local businesses and industries that provide local employment, the leisure and sporting options and the area’s growing retail and entertainment sectors.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, more than 130,000 people called Cardinia Shire home in 2022. That number is forecast to hit 200,238 by 2041, a staggering increase.
There were 33,220 local jobs in 2022, with the largest number of people being employed in education and training at 4473.
Other main employers are construction at 4145, retail trade at 3657 and agriculture, forestry and fishing at 3098.
Many of the businesses are locally owned.
In 2021, there were 9559 businesses in the Shire of Cardinia and the Gross Regional Production in 2021 was $4.43 billion.
One of the fastest growing sectors of the local economy is tourism.
Tourism
Cardinia Shire offers wineries, potteries, restaurants, cafes, working farms, adventure playgrounds and iconic tourist attractions like Puffing Billy, Emerald Lake Park and Gumbuya World.
Cardinia Shire is an easy day trip for people living in the vast majority of Melbourne’s suburbs.
The reestablishment of Gumbuya World in 2016 produced a surge of tourists flocking down the Princes Highway with the kids loaded in the car.
Tourists are also drawn to the northern part of the municipality, affectionately coined ‘The Hills’ by locals, including the villages of Emerald, Gembrook, Cockatoo and Upper Beaconsfield.
This area sits at the foothills of the Dandenong Ranges and offers tourists attractions such as Puffing Billy, Cardinia Reservoir, Bunyip State Park and Emerald Lake Park.
The shire’s central area includes the towns of Beaconsfield, Pakenham and Officer, and also includes the railway towns of Nar Nar Goon, Tynong, Garfield and Bunyip.
These areas are home to easily accessible restaurants, old style country pubs, shopping and new sporting venues.
They mark the divide between town and country that Cardinia Shire does so well.
The southern coast area includes world acclaimed RAMSAR wetlands, the townships of Kooweerup and Lang Lang and further afield Pearcedale andTooradin.This area is especially rich in asparagus growing, supplying most of Australia’s asparagus crop and there are several working farms that attract tourists from home and abroad.
Elsewhere,the$20millionPuffingBillyRailway Lakeside Visitor Centre is an all-weather facility providing unique cultural interpretations of the relationship between the Dandenong Ranges and Puffing Billy, as well as a new cafe, function spaces, upgraded toilet facilities, and retail, food and beverage options.
Education
Cardinia Shire has a network of great educa-
tion options that includes private schools such as St Clare’s Primary School at Officer, St Francis Xavier, Beaconhills, Chairo Christian School and Lakeside College.
The shire’s government schools include Pakenham Hills Primary School, Cardinia Primary School, Pakenham Primary School, Pakenham Consolidated, Bridgewood Primary School and Pakenham Springs.
There are also numerous Catholic primary schools including St Patrick’s, St James and Columba Primary at Bunyip. State-run high schools in Pakenham, Kooweerup, Officer and Emerald are also preparing young people for the future.
For those students struggling in mainstream education, Pakenham’s ECG College gives students a second chance at education, focusing on their wellbeing and welfare. ECG College offers VCAL qualifications and classes are hands-on with students doing rather than theory.
The shire is also lucky to have Officer Specialist School, which is a purpose-built school providing educational programs for students with mild to severe intellectual and associated disabilities.
The dedicated team of staff includes special education teachers, a physiotherapist, speech therapists, occupational therapists, a social worker, specialist teachers, and Education Support Staff, working collaboratively to provide outstanding learning programs. Real estate
The corridor from Beaconsfield through to Pakenham has seen an explosion of building activity in the past decade as former farmland has been transformed into planned communities such asTimbertop, Heritage Springs, Lakeside and Cardinia Lakes.
The shire’s building boom is set to continue in coming years when the huge Pakenham East development comes online.
The development area comprises approximately 630 hectares bounded by Princes Freeway to the south, Mount Ararat Road to the north and south to the east, and Deep Creek and Ryan Road to the west.
Local developer Parklea is playing a huge role in Pakenham East with its Ridgelea Estate, a self-sustaining community with plenty of local facilities and open space. Pakenham East is expected to become home to over 9000 residents and hold approximately 3000 residential
lots.
Residents will also be provided with a town centre, convenience centre, sporting reserves and recreation centre, a government primary school, a non-government primary school, a government secondary school, parks and waterways, and a LifestyleVillage.
Health
Residents are serviced by a network of healthcare providers led by general practitioners and allied health professionals such as radiologists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, dietitians, psychologists, audiologists and podiatrists.
Sport
Cardinia Shire has long been a hub of sporting activity in Melbourne’s south-east.
Its football and netball clubs - including the likes of Beaconsfield, Officer, Pakenham, Nar Nar Goon, Kooweerup, Garfield and Bunyiphave long fought ferocious battles in their respective leagues, with some of the best playing talent around stemming from those clubs.
Outer East and theWest Gippsland Football Netball Competition draw bumper crowds on a weekly basis as the Cardinia-based clubs compete with those throughout Casey and, in the case ofWest Gippsland, right down to tourist hotspots Inverloch and Phillip Island.
Australia’s newest racing club, Southside Racing, has emerged heralding a fusion of heritage and innovation born from the union of the Cranbourne Turf Club and the Pakenham Racing Club.
With a name echoing across the region,
Southside Racing pays tribute to the rich histories of its founding clubs while embarking on an exciting journey forward.
The club’s visual identity seamlessly integrates the iconic racecourses of Cranbourne and Pakenham, fostering unity among members and the wider community.
The new club hosted its first Pakenham Cup on Friday 15 March, with Ciaron Maher, Mark Zahra and Australian Bloodstock winning the main race with Ashrun demolishing a quality field.
On the basketball and netball courts of Pakenham’s Cardinia Life stadium, players of all ages and abilities put their all into the nightly competitions; while other indoor sports such as floorball also take pride of place within the shire.
Cardinia also has a number of hugely-popular bowls and golf clubs that many throughout the region proudly call their sporting home.
The collaboration between i2c Architects and Timber Design Studios has produced a groundbreaking building that prioritises sustainability. Utilising Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) and Glue Laminated Timber (GLT), both renewable resources, the design exemplifies a commitment to environmentally-friendly construction practices.
CLT, a timber product constructed by layering timber panels at 90-degree angles and bonding them together, offers characteristics akin to precast concrete panels. According to Dayne Davis, Managing Director of Timber Design Studios, CLT is gaining significant traction in the construction industry due to its cost-effectiveness and positive environmental impact. He states, “CLT is now solidifying its position in construction due to its cost-effectiveness and positive environmental benefits.“
Notably, CLT boasts strong fire ratings and excellent airtightness, making it a highly desirable material for sustainable building projects. Its visual appeal and structural integrity make it a formidable competitor to alternative materials. A structure constructed with CLT, such as this innovative building, positions Parklea at the forefront of sustainability and innovation in design. Nestled within the renowned Timber Top Estate in Parklea, the ground floor of the building hosts three thriving tree-based businesses, creating a stylish and vibrant hub for local commerce.
St Brigid’s, Officer extends an invitation to you to find out more about our great school.
St. Brigid’s Primary School’s vision is to create a modern, contemporary and innovative approach to learning that is purposeful and relevant to the lives of children and families today.
We believe in partnerships in learning and fostering a nurturing atmosphere in which staff, parents and children work as a team to develop in the children the skills to meet life’s challenges with confidence, resilience and enthusiasm.
We are committed to ensuring success in literacy and numeracy, as well as a knowledge and understanding of our ever-changing world through inquiry learning from a Catholic world view, faith and life inquiry.
We enjoy expansive grounds. This includes a grassed oval, Chapel, netball/basketball court, multipurpose room, amphitheatre, Japanese garden, running track and our fitness stations, junior and senior adventure playgrounds, a large vegetable garden, and chicken coop which supports our science and sustainability curriculum.
We have recently completed our new 2 storey building, which has more classrooms and specialist subjects’ areas. Before and After School Care is also available onsite morning and afternoon. St. Brigid’s offers a comprehensive specialist program of STEM, Performing Arts, Physical Education, Science and Sustainability, Library and Japanese. Student welfare
St Brigid’s, Officer extends an invitation to you.
is a high priority and we have a Student Counsellor.
We see ourselves as a community of lifelong learners and provide an environment that is challenging, stimulating and fosters creativity.
I would like to wish everyone in this vibrant community a wonderful Easter and safe travels over the long weekend.
Easter represents hope, life, and new beginnings. Whether or not you commemorate the religious origin of Easter, these are messages that we all need now. The reality is it has been a tough start to the year for Victorians. Housing and rental shortages, cost of living pressures, energy instability, and ever-increasing tax burdens have left businesses, industries, and ordinary Victorians on the edge and facing indefinite uncertainty.
But hope for economic recovery does not rest in politics alone. It is found in the ingenuity, resilience, and creativity of its people. In fact, times of economic downturn have historically been the backdrop for some of the most successful ventures and ideas.
Melbourne’s iconic Myer department store was established during the hardship of the late 19th century, the radio industry flourished during the Great Depression, tech start-ups like Airbnb and Uber created entirely new markets and income streams during the 2008 crisis, and e-commerce boomed in the dot-com bubble burst of the early 2000s, giving way to online retail giants such as Amazon.
Healthy economies are driven by the aspiration of its people, not burdened by governments through taxes, regulations, and red tape. When businesses thrive, families are fed, employment is created, investment and spending increase and cash is injected back into the economy - all of which boost state tax revenue.
In times of economic downturn, the mechanisms of free market capitalism become the catalyst for recovery. As demand
shifts and consumer preferences evolve, entrepreneurs respond by introducing new products and services, creating employment opportunities and revitalising industries. The Liberal Party has always championed this economic model.
While governments should be responsible for creating the right economic environment for prosperity, our hope is not in the government of the day alone. I am confident that the people of Pakenham and south-east Victoria will turn these challenges to their advantage and discover opportunities to create wealth, provide solutions and help rebuild this state with the hard work and resilience that has always defined us; and I will fight for the policy changes that will empower you to do this every chance I get.
Renee Heath MP
Member for Eastern Victorian Region
51 James Street
Pakenham
Ph 5941 1112
Pakenham and Berwick optometrist OPSM offers high-quality service and products to its customers.
Products and services on offer include comprehensive eye testing; contact lens fitting; tests for glaucoma, macular degeneration and diabetes; children’s eye exams and optical corrections; a wide range of glasses for every budget with premium quality frames and lenses and world renowned brands and services.
Local optometrist Theo Charalambous said he and his team aim to make their clients look amazing.
“We love to enhance how locals see the world,“ he said.
“We treat all of our clients like family and make sure we look out for any potentially threatening eye conditions and tailor solutions for visual needs.
“We take pride when we see our frames around town enhancing quality of life and also fashionable accessories.“
Mr Charalambous said the team supports the nearby area.
“As a franchise we are uniquely able to offer the world best practice, product and service with a local team who love what they do,“ he said.
“We live and breathe local, and ownership is local.
“We participate in free local school screenings and identify eye concerns before they become an issue for education,“ he said.
OPSM Berwick and Pakenham’s opening
hours are 9am to 5.30pm Mondays to Wednesdays and Fridays, 9am to 7.30pm Thursdays and 9am to 3pm Saturdays.
At Lang Lang and District Funeral Services, we are a dedicated team of compassionate death care professionals. Our team has over 45 years of combined experience in the funeral industry. We take care of your deceased loved one from pick up to preparation and to their final resting place. Our service is personalised to respect and take care at every step of the journey. Celebrate the life of your loved one the way you want. Make it personal at home, a park, the beach or another special place.
Create a send-off to remember.
Mission and Vision
Our mission is to provide your loved one with the respect, love and dignity they deserve following their passing, treating them as if they were our own family memberensuring remaining family and friends are able to celebrate and remember their loved one free from stress and worry.
Our vision is to celebrate life as it was, remembering the good times and providing a tailored farewell for your loved ones.
· Contact Michelle Brown 0449 220 652, michelle@lldfs.com
· visit lldfs.com
The friendliness and familiarity of your local centre is a great place to start when it comes to shopping and dining.
The food options are varied and delicious, with delivery and takeaway options still available, you can now get back to dine in options too. The wonderful team at Sugarcoat Nails & Beauty are well-equipped to help you feel fabulous for the remainder of sandal season.
Pizza Fellas has a great range of pizzas and can be ordered online so they are ready for you when you pop in to pick up your dinner.
From their delicious salads to their tasty chicken, Uncle Sam’s Charcoal Chicken is a firm favourite in the neighbourhood for a quick and healthy meal.
Cardinia Lakes Fish & Chippery has delicious burgers, along with crispy chips and tasty fish for a favourite takeaway option.
Wok to Go rounds out the takeaway options with tasty Asian dishes galore to tempt your tastebuds.
At Direct Chemist Outlet the staff are dedicated to their customer’s well-being and will help you make the right choices about maintaining good health. Their gift range is outstanding as well, and you’ll be able to find the perfect gift, or maybe something extra special for yourself.
Great breakfast and lunch options are on the menu at Urban Hype Cafe. Come and meet the friendly staff and grab something for lunch or morning tea. Their coffee is just divine.
Stay up to date by following the Centre on their Facebook page.
Cardinia Lakes Shopping Centre.
March 22nd - Art Fun with Sue
April 5th - Storytime & Art with Sue
April 12th - Balloon Twisting Fun
April 19th - Pebble Pets - Make your own Pet with Party World
April 26th - Animals of Oz and their cute critters
May 3rd - Fabulous Face Painting
May 17th - Origami Workshop
May 24th - Art & Sensory Sensations
May 31st - Cupcake Decorating
June 7th - Face Painting Fun
June 14th - Animals of Oz
June 21st - Fossil Digging
June 28th - Glitter Tattoos
May 10th - Mother's Day Art Projects
FiRST early learning operate five centres across Melbourne and all services are carefully designed and created to provide high quality education for children aged 6 weeks to 5 years.
We understand that the first 5 years of every child’s development and learning is of the utmost importance. We provide enthusiastic, qualified, experienced and loving educators together with Bachelor qualified kindergarten teachers that deliver the steps needed for quality educational curriculums to build and prepare your child for the next stages in their lives.
At FiRST, we lay the steppingstones to nurture, build, and develop secure and trusting relationships with our little learners and families.
Every change, growth and milestone are celebrated and encouraged. Our environments are safe and stimulating, mixed with natural materials to offer the children exciting play spaces where they can build their creative
thoughts and imaginations.
No matter what age and ability your child is when they take their first steps into our classrooms, FiRST ensures that every child and family will feel welcome and happy in our home away from home environment.
Our educators understand each child as an individual with a range of needs, wants, interests, abilities and languages.
FiRST will provide, encourage and further develop your child’s interests, ideas, theories, needs, sense of self and engage with your child in helping them to become the best they can be.
We offer swimming lessons, bush kinder, library visits, yoga, music, science, cooking, intergenerational visits with our older friends and much more.
Email info@fel.vic.edu.au or call the Pakenham centre on 5922 2040.
St Francis Xavier College announces the launch of its select entry Advanced Academic Achievement Program (AAA Program), set to commence in 2025. This groundbreaking program aims to cater to high achieving Year 7 students, providing an enriched academic environment that promises to nurture their intellectual capacities to the fullest.
The AAA Program is designed as an academic enrichment initiative, offering students a unique opportunity to broaden their knowledge and skills across various disciplines throughout their secondary education. Participants will be immersed in an environment that encourages critical thinking, creativity, and innovation.
Students enrolled in the AAA Program can look forward to engaging in a variety of stimulating activities, including participation in national subject competitions, Debating, and the Tournament of the Minds. Furthermore, the program does not limit students’ involvement in the college’s extra curricula offerings. Participants will have
full access to an array of activities ranging from Performing Arts to sports, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience.
Admission into the AAA Program will be competitive, based primarily on academic merit. Prospective students are required to demonstrate their capabilities through an entrance examination. The College is committed to fostering a diverse group of talents, offering a total of 56 places in its inaugural year, evenly distributed between the Berwick and Officer campuses.
Prospective families and students are encouraged to express their interest to the College early, with a registration deadline set for May 3, 2024. This initiative represents a significant milestone for St Francis Xavier College in its ongoing commitment to excellence in education, providing a platform for gifted students to excel and achieve their full potential. This program is open to fully enrolled students entering Year 7 in 2025. Contact the College today! (03) 9707 3111.
Emerald’s charming Shop of Opportunities, nestled in the heart of the town, boasts a diverse array of pre-loved, vintage collectibles, and everyday bric-a-brac items.
Wander in and discover a wonderful shop where a dedicated team of volunteers takes joy in managing this unique establishment. Here, you’ll find a delightful assortment of pre-loved treasures, inviting you to explore not only the quaint interior but also the lovely garden which is perfect for children to explore and is pet friendly Fernlea’s Shop of Opportunities also serves as a vibrant community hub. Our flourishing garden yields fresh vegetables and herbs, that can be bought at shop.
Additionally, we’re a key stop on the historic
Emerald tourist trail and offer information about local attractions.
At the Shop of Opportunities everyone is welcome, whether you’re seeking companionship or simply wish to enjoy the ambiance of our semi-urban garden.
Volunteers play a pivotal role in our daily operations, and there are myriad opportunities to get involved. Whether you prefer focusing on a specific area or contributing across a number of areas the choice is yours, we provide training, ongoing support, and recognition for your efforts. Interested in joining our vibrant team? Reach out to us at admin@fernlea.com.au or register online at www.emeraldopshop.com.au
Thinking about a secondary school for 2025? Our college principal, Mr Aaron Smith, invites you to consider Pakenham Secondary College for your child in 2025 and beyond.
Ourcollegemotto,‘WeGrowThroughConnection’, will best support our college community in the years to come.
OurSOARValuesofSocialandPersonalResponsibility, Opportunities for All, Achieving Your Personal Best and developing Respectful Relationships align well to support our college motto and guide our college community to achieve its goals.
We are a great school. At Pakenham Secondary College we are committed to positive relationships. We understand that student growth is linked to the positive and meaningful connections that they have with others.
At Pakenham Secondary College, we are dedicated to further improving the learning and wellbeing outcomes of all of our students bybuildingrespectful,positiveandproductive connections with our College CommunityWe GrowThrough Connection.
Pakenham Secondary College strives to provide opportunities in areas important to our College Community – Growth in Learning,Wellbeing and Pathways Support, the Performing Arts, Sport and Student Leadership and Our Community.
Our new multi-million dollar building program (set to commence in 2024) will further addtoouroutstandingbuildingsandgrounds.
With a rich 50 year plus history in our region, we continue to be well placed to offer a personalised approach to teaching and learning ensuring that we best work with students to tailor individual pathways important to them.
We provide outstanding opportunities for our students in the classroom and as part of
our co-curricular program.
We are a school that continues to be on the move. Our standing in the community has always been strong and now it is getting even stronger.
We have a dedicated and hardworking staff who are committed to our students. Our students want to succeed in a way that is important to them, and we will continue to provide pathways opportunities that they are interested in. There is a very strong sense of community at Pakenham Secondary College with students,familiesandstaffconnectingstronglyto get the best outcomes we can for our students.
I want to welcome families to the Pakenham Secondary College Community. I very much looking forward to showing prospective families around our great school as part of a CollegeTour and/or at our Open Night on Tuesday 23 April, 2024.
Aaron Smith
· College Principal – Pakenham Secondary College
Book a College Tour through our website at pakenhamsc.vic.edu.au or call the office on (03) 5945 1433
Solve your photography and printing needs with help from Roylaines Photo and Electronics Pakenham. Darren, Jennie, Elise and their expert team are passionate about photo printing,
Picture framing and creating your memories and moments into products you can treasure forever. Founded on preserving memories, the store offers a variety of services including film processing, printing and scanning and digitising negatives, prints, slides and even cine film movies and video. Roylaines also stock all the latest electronics. Their diverse range of gizmos and gadgets, cables, leads, convertors, and adaptors can help get all your tech equipment working the way you want it to.
Darren Spargo, who has owned and operated Roylaines Photo and Electronics Pakenham and will celebrate 30 years in March 2024, says “having the stock is one thing, but we combine our experience, knowledge and patience to ensure our customers get the solutions they need”.
For passionate and patient customer service, find Roylaines at 148 Main Street, Pakenham, or visit roylaines.com.au to shop online.
Jennie, Darren and Elise and their expert team are passionate about photo printing, picture framing and creating your memories and moments into products you can treasure forever.
The future looks bright for the growing shire as new road, school and level crossing removal projects progress over the next few years.
Meanwhile, in the growth areas of Pakenham and Officer, congestion busting projects are well underway, with the removal of the Cardinia Road level crossing completed in late 2020.
The new Pakenham station is also set to open later in 2024 as part of the project to remove the main level crossings from Paken-
ham, with the station featuring 14 skylights and a roof profile inspired by Pakenham’s rolling hills and bronze sunsets, brought to life by cutting-edge technology.
Level crossings at McGregor Road, Main Street and Racecourse Road in Pakenham will be replaced with a rail over road design, expected to be completed in 2024, while level crossings at Brunt Road and Station Street in Beaconsfield are expected to be removed in 2025.
We have redesigned our scholarship program in 2024 to reflect our 4As, so that we can award talented individuals cross a range of disciplines including academic, sport, art and design, dance and music.
To find out more and to apply please visit our website or use the QR Code.
Since its beginning in 1965, Van Steensel Timbers Pty Ltd has been a beacon of quality and community in the Officer and Grantville areas. Founded by JanVan Steensel, the company began with a humble offering of recycled timber. However, driven by a commitment to excellence, it quickly evolved into a comprehensive supplier of building materials, coupled with wood machining services.
Jan’s vision was not just about business; it was about building a legacy that would endure through generations. In 1990, buoyed by the success of their Officer store, Jan and Freda expanded their operations to Grantville. Today, their four sons helm the Officer and Grantville stores, ensuring that the family’s values and dedication continue to drive the business forward.
In Officer, Peter and David steer the ship with expertise and passion, while Bruce and Stephen oversee operations in Grantville. It’s a testament to the family’s unwavering commitment to their roots and the communities they serve. The Van Steensel ethos is rooted in personalised service and a genuine connection with customers.
What truly sets Van Steensel Timbers apart is its unwavering focus on family and community. This isn’t just about transactions; it’s about relationships. Whether you’re a seasoned builder or a DIY enthusiast, you’ll find not just quality products but a team of experienced and knowledgeable staff ready to assist.
At Van Steensel Timbers, the emphasis is not just on selling materials but on empowering customers with the right tools and expertise to bring their projects to life. With a product range that continues to expand and a commitment to competitive pricing, Van Steensel Timbers remains the go-to destination for builders and homeowners alike in Of-
ficer, Grantville, and beyond.
As TDJ Projects rightly acknowledges, it’s the dedication of the Van Steensel family and their staff that truly sets them apart. Their legacy is not just in the structures they’ve helped build but in the relationships they’ve cultivat-
ed over decades. So, whether you’re in need of premium-grade timber or expert advice, look no further than Van Steensel Timbers—where quality, service, and community converge.
Thank you, Van Steensel, for your enduring commitment to excellence.
Product Range: Experienced and knowledgeable staff ready to help you find quality products in our ever-expanding range. Family-owned and operated since 1965, providing quality building materials to Officer, Grantville and surrounds.
As your representative in Victoria’s Legislative Council, I represent the Cardinia Shire community at the state level and work alongside the local community to achieve better outcomes and opportunities for everybody. I also serveVictoria as the Minister for Equality, Minister for Housing, and Minister for Water.
Since I was first elected in 2014, this area has undergone an incredible amount of growth and development. This state government has been working hard to support that growth by investing in roads, schools, transportation, and community facilities to ensure that Pakenham and the Cardinia Shire continues to be a great place to live and work.
I’m proud of what we’ve been able to deliver for the community over the last four years:
Removing the Level Crossing at Cardinia Rd, Pakenham, with five more crossings to be removed between Berick and Pakenham by 2025
Building a new station in Pakenham East, to be located between Deep Creek and the Princes Freeway to improve service and remove bottlenecks
Building A brand-new community hospital in Pakenham to provide more health services locally
Built the new Kurmile Primary School, which opened its doors in 2024 and will soon include an integrated kindergarten to help
kids get a better education.
Secured $11.2 million in funding to support the Puffing Billy line and the Emerald Tourist Railway Board
Expanded the Cardinia Creek Regional Parklands to cover 508 hectares of parkland for locals to enjoy
There’s always more work to be done to support our local communities as they continue to grow. If you have a local issue that you’d like to bring to my attention, contact my office on (03) 5134 8000 or email me at harriet. shing@parliament.vic.gov.au.
The regulars craving coffee on the go at Gloria Jeans Coffees Pakenham Drive Thru get the best of personalised service.
“We know most of our customers by their names and their orders,” says franchise partner Saad Bashir.
“So just before they enter the store or pull up their car in the drive-thru, most of the time the order is ready by the time they get to the counter.”
The business offers a range of hot and cold drinks as well as sweet and savoury foods for all age groups.
And excellent customer service is what motivates Bashir.
“Our staff is well trained to serve every guest with utmost care and respect.
“It makes me feel proud to know that the customer walking out of our store has left
satisfied to the fullest.
“In all my job responsibilities never shy away from hard work.
“In everything I do, I try to take the best approach because I take pride in my work.”
Gloria Jeans Coffees Pakenham Drive Thru is offering two regular-size coffees and two toastinis for $29.95 for five days a week from 11am-3pm.
“We believe this would be something the tradies would appreciate and could add to their daily lunch menu,” Bashir says.
“It’s no doubt the best deal out of all the deals we have ever had in the past.”
Gloria Jeans Coffee Pakenham Drive Thru is at shop 1 / 1280 Koo Wee Rup Road Pakenham. It’s open 5am-5pm MondayFriday, from 6am Saturday and from 7am Sunday.
Every school has a motto or mission statement that outlines how each member of the community can benefit from being part of the school community. St Clare’s Primary School, Officer, has the following school motto:
Faith leads to courage, wisdom and compassion
In order to live out this motto, all members of our community are asked to follow our school wide expectations which are Respect, Optimism, Courage, Kind and Safe – ROCKS.
Our students follow these in their daily actions at school by doing their job, having a go, making positive choices, seeking help when needed, modelling and practising kindness and keeping themselves and others safe.
At St Clare’s these expectations are modelled and explicitly taught and reinforced in an ongoing way. Our student awards are based on living out ROCKS and we link these expectations to scriptures in the Bible. Our hope is that all members of our community will leave St Clare’s with our school wide expectations and our motto instilled in their minds as they go through life.
We look to nurture the holistic development of each child at our school. For the St Clare’s family, numeracy and literacy skills are core elements of education; but so is Religious Education – developing empathy, social justice and a strong moral compass. We encourage active play and healthy bodies; understanding other cultures through learning languages; and the confidence that comes with developing creativity through the performing and visual arts.
At St Clare’s their aim is to have each child reach their potential, to be a well-rounded individual - within a supportive and caring learning environment.
Student achievement is measured not only by academic growth but by each child’s emotional, social and spiritual wellbeing. Being part of faith-filled community instils our students with a sense of identity, a feeling of belonging and above all, a powerful sense of selfworth.
At St Clare’s our aim is to have each child
The awesome team at Greenview Accounting Group have been successfully supporting and assisting their clients to navigate through the accounting challenges of the last few decades.
The Greenview team understand both sides of the equation extremely well when it comes to rental properties and the pressure that both Mum and Dad landlords, as well as tenants, are facing and they are here to assist.
As it is nearing that time of the year that all taxpayers need to be looking at their expenses incurred in relation to income earnt over the last 12 months and gathering the evidence, be it receipts or ensuring logbooks are up to date. Then through discussions with one of the tax specialists at Greenview Accounting Group you can be assured that your tax return can be completed with the best possible outcome. If you are contributing to your super keep an eye on Super Fund closure dates for processing - it doesn’t cost anything to have a chat with a professional prior to 30 June but it could cost you a lot if you don’t!
reach their potential; to be a well-rounded individual - within a supportive and caring learning environment.
Visit our website www.stclaresofficer.catholic.edu.au and tour our “virtual tour” to get a real feel for our school. School Tours are also available each Monday, please contact the school on 5940 6777 to book.
If you are looking to enrol for 2025 we ask that you contact us now as we are accepting enrolments for next year in all year levels.
For all enquires or to receive our enrolment documentation please phone 5940 6777 or email enrolments@stclaresofficer.catholic. edu.au
The Health Barn Pakenham is your go to for anything health and wellness – products, advice, referrals and more, our friendly staff will be happy to point you in the right direction.
With stores in both Pakenham and Drouin, we service a huge customer base from communities in Gippsland all the way throughtoMelbourneandsurrounds.Stocking all of your health and wellness essentials; supplements, foods, gluten free, keto, sugar free, vegan, skincare, makeup, homewares, gifts, baby and much more.
If you need some extra advice perhaps it’s time for you to see our in-store herbalist/ homoeopath- bookings can be made at either store by phone. From adults, to kids, bubs and even pets – Sabine provides extra care and advice for the whole family.
Wherever you are in your journey remember - don’t put off tomorrow what you can do today. Call the friendly team at Greenview Accounting Group today on 5629 6133 or call into 1-5 High Street, Bunyip to get started.
If you have fallen behind with Tax Office obligations, don’t ignore them! Feel free to call the team at Greenview and have a chat, they could negotiate an arrangement that works for you and yes longer terms are available; should you have multiple years of tax returns outstanding, it could just be that refunds may be waiting for you.
Grab a coffee, brewed chai, smoothie or raw treat at our coffee window.
Head to our Facebook and Instagram to keep in the loop- Events, Sales, New products, information and more.
See you at your closest store.
Join ourVIP for 20 per cent off storewide -
twice a month - Just ask us how.
The Health Barn
Great Australian Bakehouse having served the Pakenham community for over 17 years, the Great Australian Bakehouse team is driven by the desire to always delight customers with friendliness and quality.They pride themselves on the quality of their products, excellent customer service and the store’s warm, homely atmosphere. Try their bread, cake, sweet and savory treats, pies, sandwiches and more. · 145 Main Street, Pakenham. Phone (03) 5941 3262 or visit greataustralianbakehouse.com.
GARFIELD PICTURE THEATRE
Ron Vincent sings Cat Stevens at Garfield Picture Theatre, book tickets, Saturday, 25 May, 7:30 pm – 10:30 pm
Garfield, 47-51 Nar Nar Goon - Longwarry Road.
Talented singer song writer and musician Ron Vincent performs a sensational and unforgettable rendition of the artist Cat Stevens
Ron Vincent holds not only a uncanny resemblance to Cat Stevens but his hauntingly beautiful vocals and performance style which translate on stage to one of the most authentic entertaining and exciting shows honouring this artis the world has ever seen get to a show
Come in and grab a delicious pie and hot coffee or choose from
and see what everyone is talking about touring australia wide and internationally.
LANG LANG RODEO
This family orientated rodeo is held traditionally each year on Easter Monday. It bucks into action all day for spectators with Barrel Racing, Roping, Saddle Bronc, Bull Riding and more. The Lang Lang Rodeo has been running since 1944, for novice and open competitors that travel the circuit throughout Victoria. It is the first event with Australian Professional Rodeo Association to be inducted into the “Hall of Fame”.
As the Cardinia Shire’s event of the Year in 2016, the rodeo is a fantastic family day out, each year the event gathers the best riders through the country. There is junior and ladies barrel races, steer riding, bucking broc, and the ever popular bull riding and much more.
The“Hughie Bourke Memorial” dog high jump is a great crowd pleaser with cash prizes for the winner and runner up.
With food stalls, amusements, and plenty of action, for every age group, the exciting day out starts at 10 am The rodeo is affiliated with the APRA association.
· Visit us on Facebook
and a basketball half-court, and asphalting of the road and car park, including footpaths and drainage.
The second stage of the project would include a sports pavilion, with a proposed design currently underway.
The first stage of the
for long jump, triple jump, pole vault, high jump, javelin, shot put, discus and steeplechase, as well as lighting and a car park.
Fully funded by the council, the works followed on from the earlier construction of the IYU Recreation Reserve, which opened in 2017, which included a number of soccer and recreation facilities, such as construction of a fullsized senior soccer field, a pavilion, and allweather synthetic soccer pitch, a playground
As part of a partnership between South East Water and the council, a new drinking fountain has been installed to help reduce waste and ensure facility users and visitors have access to free and safe drinking water.
Cardinia Shire mayor Jack Kowarzik said projects like this were a great showcase of the powers of collaboration.
“I’d like to thank Athletics Victoria, Pakenham Little Athletics Club, Casey Cardinia Masters, Casey Cardinia Athletics Club, and South East Water for working collaboratively with council,” he said.
“Sport is a huge part of Aussie culture, and Cardinia Shire is one of the fastest growing areas in the state, so to be able to provide our growing community with new sporting facilities is a great thing.
“Not only will the new track and field benefit local athletics clubs here in Pakenham, but also the wider community who can use it all year-round.”
Cr Kowarzik said the new drinking fountain joined a number of other accessible fountains installed at recreation facilities and reserves in Nar Nar Goon, Lang Lang and Pakenham.
“This partnership project is a resourceful and practical way of positively contributing to waste reduction efforts and promoting healthy hydration habits out in our community,” he said.
Continued page 2
Though it was a hot start to autumn, the weather is getting cooler and Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMV) and CFA have jumped right into planned burning.
If you have seen smoke you may have seen one of the local burns currently being conducted right now.
The CFA recently burned 8ha in Upper Beaconsfield at Dallas Brooks Scout Park to reduce overall fuel loads in the area.
As of Wednesday 27 March, FFMV is burning 81ha along Clarkes Creek Track in Kurth Kiln Regional Park, Gembrook which is to clear a significant area of fuel to act as break in the event of a bushfire.
A further 35ha has been burned just offWellington Road, Lysterfield. There will be many more planned burns to come in the local area throughout the season.
FFMVic Gippsland Deputy Chief Fire Officer Sam Quigley said planned burning was one of the tools FFMVic used to keep Victoria safer from bushfires.
“Delivering our planned burning program
takes a lot of planning and preparation,” Mr Quigley said.
“If you live in or are visiting an area where planned burning is taking place, there’s a good chance you’ll see FFMVic firefighters prepar-
ing locations or delivering planned burns.
They’ll be the ones in our distinctive green firefighting uniforms.
“The bushfire risk management program is focused on creating a strategic network of fuel
reduced areas on public land because it’s not just what’s being done now, but what we’ve delivered in the past and what we plan to deliver in the future that will keep our communities safer.”
From page 1
“Part of a larger project to map the locations of existing fountains and ensure people know where to go in times of heat waves, homelessness or when exercising, it’s one piece of the puzzle in progressing our top wellbeing priorities from the Cardinia Shire Liveability Plan.”
South EastWater strategy and stakeholder general manager Karen Lau said they were excited to support the Pakenham community to stay active and healthy.
“By choosing to refill your water bottle at a Choose Tap fountain, you’re also helping to protect our environment by reducing the millions of single-use plastic bottles that end up in landfill or our waterways,” she said.
Central Ward councillor Collin Ross said
he was enthusiastic about the future of athletics in Cardinia.
“It’s especially pleasing to be here for such a happy occasion since the burglary of the Little Athletics Club’s equipment from their club rooms earlier this year was a bitter note for everyone involved, on what should have been an exciting time,” he said.
“Moving to a premier regional facility has been a boon for raising interest in membership with the club.
“I’m looking forward to seeing a future athletics Olympian originate from our shire.”
A lot of work goes into bettering the community at the Cardinia Foundation, all of which is only possible through the initiative of local institutions themselves.
The Foundation held a meeting last week at Shanikas Pakenham to spread the word about how local businesses together can build a thriving community by becoming a partner to the foundation.
The Foundation garners a spirit of collective responsibility through its partnership program, in Cardinia no business big or small is isolated but can have an active role in furthering the community’s social and economic wealth, and most importantly ensuring those doing tough don’t get left behind.
Castellos Group has been a long-term partner of the Foundation, chief executive officer Joe Giustiniano said it’s about ensuring support goes to all.
“We love it, we’ve been doing it before me for years and years, always very heavily involved,“ Mr Giustiniano said.
“Our patrons come from the local community, so we want to support them the best we can.
“We believe rather than one institution helping one group of people, we would rather give it to someone that spreads across the local community.”
Foundation Director and Principal of Officer’s SJD Homes, Simon Dunstan has volunteered for groups like Bless Collective to see first-hand those struggling in the community.
Mr Dunstan has concerns for the homeless in the local area, the foundation is not only a chance to give back but an opportunity for him and the company to directly help the issues they care about.
“The thing I love about the foundation is that it is just around the local area and the
community,“ Mr Dunstan said.
“We have been around for 17-odd years, over the journey the local community has supported us and we should give back.”
The foundation work involves an entire enterprise, from the staff to management, where even staff join on efforts and contribute through the workplace giving program.
“What we have really seen as a company, is that everybody likes to have a purpose, our staff have responded to it really,“ Mr Dunstan said.
“Two-fold benefit for not just the community, but to our staff who are looking to contribute to this cause and help out people doing it tough.
“Most people want to give back and the foundation is a great way of doing it.”
Star News Managing Director and Chairman of the Cardinia Foundation, Paul Thomas said the partnership program is where locals can make a difference.
“The Cardinia Foundation’s mission is to foster a sustainable and resilient community. And we believe that achieving this mission is best done through collaboration and partnerships. Our partnerships are with local service providers, with the community, and businesses,“ Mr Thomas.
“The Cardinia Foundation business partnerships mean that those local businesses can have a direct impact in the local community
where they operate and they and their staff most likely live. The Foundation only supports organisations who provide services or benefits for Cardinia Shire residents. It is all about place based giving.
“The Partnership program and the businesses supporting the foundation provide significant support towards driving the foundation’s initiatives. Their dedication exemplifies the spirit of corporate social responsibility and underscores the symbiotic relationship between businesses and community welfare.“
You can get involved as a partner at cardiniafoundation.org/partnerships-2/ or you can enquire by contacting admin@cardiniafoundation.org
Moving to Clyde North and building a home had been a big goal for the Fernando family after selling their old house in 2014.
However, while they achieved that milestone, the family had been issued land tax worth two years on their primary place of residence.
“Never in my mind, had I thought about contacting the State Revenue Office or that they were going to contact me,” Sameera Fernando, husband and father of three, said.
“Because it’s a principal place of residence (PPR), I know I don’t have to pay any land tax, there was never an intention of letting the SRO know that we lived in our home or anything.”
In the Legislative Assembly on Thursday 7 March, Berwick MP Brad Battin addressed the Treasurer on this issue and detailed that the Fernando family’s certificate of occupancy was issued on 19 March 2019, and then soon after the family moved into their home.
According to the SRO website, principal places of residence are exempt from land tax and they are made known of this with the homeowner providing the SRO with a notice of acquisition of an interest in land, or NOA.
According to Hansard, Mr Battin also added the land tax was issued since there was no person occupying the land for two years.
“I got a notice that said I owed some money, so I called the SRO and told them about the situation,” Mr Fernando said.
“They asked me all the specific details, and then when the agent finished doing her calculations on her end, she said that they could exempt us from this year and next, but for the first two years, we needed to pay.
“I was like, ‘Why is that?’ And she said that the rule was that within 12 months we needed to build, and if we were not building we needed to contact them and let them know that it is an owner-occupied property - but we didn’t know this,” Mr Fernando said.
A vacant land tax is a chargeable fee from the SRO, but only to property that is vacant for more than six months in inner and middle Melbourne, and still does not apply to one’s PPR.
It was on 10 December 2016 when the Fernando family signed a contract for land in Clyde North, the land was settled in 2018, and before the family could sign a building contract with Ranshe Homes, Mr Randolf de Silva, then-director of the company passed away.
After choosing Smarthomes as their next builder, construction began in February 2019 with the family moving in soon after.
Mr Battin, who is currently handling the situation said that “the Fernandos have complied with all the details they were provided, the government is inferring that Mr and Mrs Fernando failed to read a section of the website about applying for an exemption”.
“This request is just a way for the government not to return the money, for now, the next step is we will await the minister’s response to the other questions we have put in,” he said.
After the Fernando family attended Parliament on 20 March with Brad Battin MP, Mr Fernando recalled the Treasurer promptly tell-
ing them that they needed to pay the land tax, and that “there wasn’t an answer or anything”.
“I just want to know, what is this rile, and who should have been the one to have told us?
“I mean before buying the house there was no information and no one told us that we had to do this, so why should I pay?
“I didn’t sell it, and I can’t use the vacant lot as an investment property; I just didn’t understand, but that was the explanation that was given to me by the SRO agent,” he said.
The family never owned an investment property and had been renting after selling their original home while their current residency was being built.
“If it was my investment property by all means, I would happily pay the tax, that’s the rule and my accountant would have advised me on that, I would have gotten a bill and I would have paid it.
“But I lost money on this one because I had to pay for its mortgage and at the same time my family was renting, so why on Earth should I pay more tax?” Mr Fernando said.
The land tax was also issued on the same month their newest child was born, putting unprecedented stress on the family.
Currently, both the Fernando Family and Brad Battin MP are waiting for further updates, with hopes of further details and an amendment to the land tax.
A South East manufacturers peak body has called for a Parliamentary inquiry as its campaign against steepling land taxes and valuations failed to move the state’s treasurer.
Honi Walker, who is chief executive of South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance (SEMMA), said that at a sought-after meeting with Treasurer Tim Pallas, he “basically ignored our request for a freeze (on land tax rises) for manufacturers and passed us to the Valuer General Victoria (VGV).”
The alliance were then “irate” with the response from VGV which reportedly said: “If you don’t like the valuation – then object”.
The land tax rises were introduced as part of the State Government’s ‘temporary’ Covid Debt Repayment Plan.
SEMMA, backed by an emphatic survey of manufacturers, is calling on a cap on the hikes which are “gouging” manufacturers to cover the Government’s “Covid debt burden”.
A Hallam firm’s land tax bill soared more than $119,000 in the past year – tripling from $58,575 to $177,400.
It’s a move that will cost jobs and investment as well as hinder business’s ability to compete interstate and overseas, SEMMA argues.
“Our members are hurting,” Walker said.
“These increases have been felt across
our entire membership base and the effects will be felt at the consumer level when we are forced to increase our prices to cover these tax hikes.
“If you thought the cost of living was high now – just wait until manufacturers and the supply chain pass on their land tax increases. It just doesn’t pass the pub test.”
SEMMA argues that manufacturers should be exempt from land tax rises due to providing an “essential service” and putting “our sovereign capability” at risk.
Meanwhile SEMMA was hopeful that its call for a Parliamentary inquiry will be heeded.
Walker said the land valuations were a result of VGV’s contracted valuers who use a “complex calculation” with a 10 per cent statistical variation.
“Suffice to say, you need an economics degree and a degree in land valuation to work out these increases.”
The Government argues that the land tax scale remains “progressive” – in that smaller property owners pay proportionately less than those with larger landholdings.
A spokesperson said the Treasurer met with SEMMA and “will continue to engage with industry”.
“We’re continuing to invest in Victoria’s manufacturing industry to help local businesses innovate and expand as they are key to growing our economy and supporting local jobs.”
Working 17 continuous hours causes impairment equivalent to .05 blood alcohol concentration level.
Working long, multiple days in a row by yourself can be part of the job but consider the cost to you and your family.
Check in with yourself and others around you.
Know the signs of fatigue, visit worksafe.vic.gov.au/farmfatigue
It’s never you, until it is. Scan
Winners of the 2024 Casey Community Awards were announced at a gala celebration event at Bunjil Place on Friday 22 March.
The annual awards are a recognition program that celebrates the outstanding individuals and groups who go above and beyond in their contribution to the community.
CFA member Shane Keen was named Casey Citizen of the Year, Gunaikurnai/Yorta Yorta Elder Aunty Lucy Boothey the Casey Senior of the Year, and Maya Pinn the Casey Young Citizen of the Year.
Cancer Support Angels chief executive officer Jodie Hollis was named Casey Woman of the Year, Berwick and District Woodworkers Club member John McMahon won the Lindsay King Art Award, and Fiona Spargo was named the Environment and Sustainability Champion.
Casey Rainbow Community advocate Ray Adcock won the Casey Diversity and Inclusion Award and Wild Days Wildlife Shelter was named Casey Community Group of the Year.
City of Casey chair of administrators Noelene Duff PSM congratulated all the nominees for the well-deserved recognition.
“It was fantastic to come together and celebrate the many people who give their time, passion, and energy to help build a better community,” she said.
“I’d like to congratulate the 2024 winners and all the nominees for these prestigious awards. Thank you for the contribution you all make to our community.”
Casey Citizen of the Year – Shane Keen Shane has been a volunteer with the Country Fire Authority (CFA) since 1977. He was at Hampton Park Fire Brigade for 30 years, including 10 years as captain. Since then, he has served with the Narre Warren North Fire Brigade, where he has been Captain for the past three years. Shane is also the Casey Group Officer, who is responsible for facilitating information sharing and emergency response capability development between the 13 brigades within the City of Casey. Shane is a representative of the City of Casey Municipal Fire Management Working Group and the Municipal Emergency Management Planning Committee.
Casey Young Citizen of the Year – Maya Pinn Maya is a business owner, a university student, and a single carer/mum to a six-year-old child, who is severely disabled, and a neurotypical three-year-old. Maya has advocated for better policy throughout her paid and volunteer role at Syndromes without a Name (SWAN) and Association for Children with a Disability, as well as through the Dandenong Valley SDS school council. Maya has hosted numerous events as a volunteer peer support facilitator for parents and carers of children with undiagnosed or rare genetic conditions. She is also on the community advisory group at SWAN
and Melbourne Genomics Health Alliance and contributed to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) review for zero to eightyear-olds.
Casey Senior of the Year – Lucille Boothey (Aunty Lucy)
Proud Gunaikurnai/Yorta Yorta Elder Aunty Lucy is a pillar in the Aboriginal community, committed to sharing the invaluable gifts of story, culture, and care for the Country. Aunty Lucy tirelessly volunteers and connects to community and country through various contributions including gardening at the Aboriginal Gathering Place and engaging in the co-design and facilitation of cultural elements in playgroups. Lovingly known as ‘Nan’, a term only used with the utmost respect and regard in many cultures, these contributions to the Casey community have had a profound and lasting impact.
Casey Woman of the Year – Jodie Hollis
Jodie’s journey began in 2017 with her volunteer work for the Narre-Cranbourne Relay for Life in the City of Casey. In recognition of her outstanding commitment to the community, she received the Holt Australia Day Award in 2020. In December 2019, Jodie founded her own charity, Cancer Support Angels to assist cancer patients and their families during challenging times. As Cancer Support Angels enters its fourth year, it now boasts more than 70 dedicated volunteers nationwide and has touched the lives of more than 5,000 patients.
Casey Community Group of the Year – Wild Days Wildlife Shelter
For more than 15 years, Wild Days Wildlife Shelter has cared for sick, injured, and orphaned Australian native wildlife from Casey and surrounds. Founder and licensed wildlife carer Kay Taranto, and her wonderful team of volunteers operate 24/7, 365 days a year to fulfill their mission to rehabilitate wildlife that need help, nurture their environment, and return them to the wild. Wild Days is passionate
about sharing knowledge of biodiversity by training carers, mentoring, speaking with the community, schools, and groups, attending expos, consulting with the council, and guiding junior volunteers.
Casey Environment and Sustainability
Champion Award – Fiona Spargo
Fiona began collecting recyclable items when she started working at the Botanic Gardens Retirement Village two years ago. She expanded her recycling efforts to include the residents living there, and in August last year also began collecting items from the Coral Mews RetirementVillage. Some of the items are given to local childcare centres and schools and the rest are taken away for recycling. For events such as DetoxYour Home and textile recycling days, Fiona does a collection on behalf of the retirement village residents and books in time to drop items off on their behalf.
Casey Equity and Inclusion Award – Ray Adcock
Ray has made an outstanding contribution to the Casey community over the past year by facilitating numerous social events for the Casey Rainbow Community and providing a strong voice for the group. Ray partnered with the local Casey Cardinia Rotaract Club to auspice a grant for the facilitation of events in a neurodiverse inclusive space for an intersectional community.
Lindsay King Art Award – John McMahon
John is a member of the Berwick and District Woodworkers Club. As part of this club, he contributes to the significant handmade toy contribution that the club makes to local children’s charities each year. John has recently prepared a proposal for the establishment of a National Woodcraft Collection and Exhibition Centre to be located in Berwick. He has spent many hours researching the project and dedicated his own time to meeting with the Council, as well as local and federal MPs to gain support for his project.
Thumbs up
To the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal this week.
Thumbs up
Looking forward to the Bunyip Community Market this Sunday.
Thumbs up
To Matt and the team at Mitre 10 in Beaconsfield- helped me enormously with a tricky task with an item for a care facility. Thank you.
Thumbs up
To a paid day off this week!
Thumbs up
To an extra long weekend.
Man dies in collision
A man has died following a collision in Pearcedale on Thursday afternoon.
It was reported to the police that a car travelling on Tyabb-Tooradin Road collided with a truck approaching in the opposite direction around 4.50pm on 21 March.
The driver and sole occupant of the car died at the scene.
The truck driver was unharmed and stopped at the site of the collision.
Circumstances surrounding the incident have yet to be established and clarified, with an investigation currently ongoing, police said last week.
Authorities are urging anyone who witnessed the collision, or those with dashcam footage or further information, to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au/report-a-crime
$500k of stolen vehicles and parts seized
Over $500,000 in stolen vehicles and parts were recovered from a semi-rural Cranbourne East home in the morning of Wednesday 20 March.
A 39-year-old man was charged by detectives from the Vehicle Crime Squad with trafficking drugs of dependence, 11 counts of handling stolen goods and possessing proceeds of crime-related offences.
With assistance from the Vehicle Examination Unit, a search warrant was executed at the home which stored 10 stolen vehicles, of which were seven HoldenV8s, aToyota Landcruiser, a Mazda BT50, and another Toyota vehicle.
There were also three stolen road bikes, a stolen dirt bike, five stolen car engines, one stolen trailer, a stolen front-end loader, a stolen forklift and a stolen quad bike, all of which were seized by police.
Police believe that the property was used for vehicle rebirthing, which Julie Macdonald, Detective Inspector from the Vehicle Crime Squad said “refers to modifying or removing identifying information from a stolen vehicle or parts to disguise it has been stolen”.
“The wider ramifications of this kind of crime can ripple through the entire community, from someone who can’t get to work or school because their car’s been stolen, to insurance premiums being raised for everyone to cover the costs of vehicle theft.”
Other items were also seized from the home, including a small quantity of cash and a traffickable amount of suspected methylamphetamine.
All of the seized vehicles were displaying cloned number plates and had their vehicle identifiers, the VIN and engine numbers, either removed, altered or defaced.
“Rebirthed vehicles can be a major safety threat to unwitting buyers, often the process is not carried out by a qualified mechanic, meaning that the car could have serious issues which can result in an accident,” Inspector Macdonald said.
The suspect was bailed to appear at the Magistrate’s Court on 27 March with further investigation still ongoing.
Police charged two people on 20 March as part of their investigation into a non-fatal shooting in Hampton Park this month.
A 25-year-old Cranbourne East man and a 21-year-old Clyde North woman were arrested with assistance from the Special Operations Group shortly after 11am on Wednesday 20 March in Mount Waverley.
During the arrest, investigators located and seized a firearm.
The pair were interviewed and subsequently charged with attempted aggravated carjacking with a firearm, armed robbery with a firearm and intentionally causing injury.
The man was also charged with using a firearm contrary to the firearms prohibition order.
They were remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 21 March.
The arrests follow an incident about 4am on Saturday 16 March where a man and a woman were approached while sitting in a vehicle parked in a car park on Hallam Road in Hampton Park.
It will be alleged that an altercation took place after demands were made for money.
A firearm was then discharged, striking a 39-year-old woman in the arm.
She later presented at the hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.
The 47-year-old man who was with her in the vehicle was not physically injured.
Along with a smorgasbord, the school celebrated with a fashion parade in a colourfully decorated quadrangle.
The day was part of Harmony Week – a national celebration of cultural diversity and inclusiveness.
Friday 22 March,
The assembly in the Cranbourne West school was opened by students with a Welcome to Country and AUSLAN teachers helping the school communities to sing and sign the national anthem as they have been learning in classes.
Students were invited to wear their traditional cultural clothing or a touch of orange.
They presented cultural performances that they had worked hard over the past few weeks to get ready for.
A spokesperson for the school said they had dances from New Zealand, Australia, and India, songs from Sri Lanka, and folktales from Fiji and India were narrated along with Maori Haka performed by students from Cranbourne West Secondary College.
“It was a lovely afternoon, and our performers were excellent,” they said.
“It is a concert that recognises and highlights the beauty of our cultural diversity and inclusiveness at our school.”
Ever thought about what could possibly go wrong in your business?
If you are like most business owners you may very well be thinking that there aren’t enough hours in the day to deal with what actually needs to be addressed already without creating more potential headaches!
Nevertheless, putting some time aside each month to consider potential problems can be of tremendous benefit and may well save you a lot of time and cost in the long run.
The reason for this is that if a problem happens that you had not had not anticipated, chances are that it will occur right when you are already busy.
The temptation then may well be to come up with a short-term fix just to simply get it off your plate as quickly as possible.
The problem is that these interim remedial solutions can often backfire since not considering all the implications may cause unwanted effects elsewhere, whereas a bit of time spent when things are less busy may enable a more rounded and ultimately better solution.
Another reason that risk management may not be undertaken is that it can all seem
“too hard” and hence gets placed in that wellknown bucket whereas the truth is that this is quite easy to do and simple to maintain. Here is how to do it.
The first thing to do is to create a ‘Risk Register’.
You simply succinctly define each identified risk (somewhere between 4 and 10 risks are usually enough) and associate a numeric ‘ID’ (identifier) with each.
For each risk, you then determine the likelihood that it will occur (where 1=’highly unlikely’ and 10=’extremely likely’), and then if it were to happen, what would be the impact (next column) where 1=’very low impact’ and 10=’catastrophic’. These two values are then multiplied together and the result put in the ‘Risk Result’ column.
Obviously, the higher the Risk Result, the more notice you need to take of it.
Once all risks have been identified, you rank these where 1=’most serious’, 2=’next most serious’ and so on so that an ordered list of risks can be created. In the above example Risk C is clearly the one that will need most watching!
Once all the risks have been identified, create another table for all the risks that contains a column for ‘Mitigation Strategy’ (i.e. the things you will do to prevent the risk from materializing) and another column for ‘Contingency’ which are the actions you would take if the risk did actually occur. You then simply consider these factors for each of the defined risks and as appropriate undertake some preventative measures. In practice, you won’t necessarily need to mitigate every single risk, perhaps just the most important ones which you can assess using your derived risk ranking.
This table can then be reviewed on a regular basis (say monthly or quarterly) so that the risks and their associated ‘Likelihood’ and ‘Impact’ values continue to be reassessed.
This may then shift the ranking in the risk Register. It may well be that some of the risks go away over time and new ones will become apparent and should then be included into both tables. Keeping such a table up to date and accurate will provide many benefits and is part of good business practice.
Ian Ash ACC, AInstIB Managing Director OrgMent Business Solutionswww.ombs.com.auCasey Council’s chief administrator has challenged local MPs to “put your money where your mouth is” to complete the long-awaited Doveton Pool in the Park upgrade.
Despite no state or federal funding, the council has gone it alone and announced $7.91 million for Stage 1 works to rebuild the outdoor 50-metre pool.
The parkland and splash pad will be accessible all year, and the toddler’s pools, water slide and Gambetta Room will also be removed.
In 2022, the council stated that the $21 million project was contingent on 50 per cent state and federal funding.
The project will now be staggered across three stages, with stage 1 funded by the council across 2024-’25 and 2025-’26.
Its total cost has been estimated down to $14.7 million, contingent on state and federal funding.
Chair of administrators Noelene Duff told a council meeting on 19 March that it was time for state and federal governments to get behind the project.
“We remind those federal and state members that here is an opportunity to support this community.
“We know there has been a lot of interest. I
think it’s ‘put your money where your mouth is’ time.
“We’ve done that here and seek the support of state and federal governments to finalise this into the future.”
Local MPs had backed a fierce public campaign to ‘Save Doveton Pool’ that led Casey to abandon its 2021 plans to replace the pool with parkland.
At the 2022 election, Bruce federal Labor MP Julian Hill pledged that he was “very confident” that the pool upgrade would receive federal funding.
“Progress in saving the pool is incredibly welcome,” he said in reaction to the council’s committed funding.
“I’ve been proud to stand with the community in opposing council’s efforts to close the pool. People power worked!”
Mr Hill urged the council to submit a “high quality application” to an upcoming federal grants program.
“Whilethisisultimatelyalocalproject,funding for a metropolitan sporting and community infrastructure grants program was allocated in the Federal Budget and program arrangements are currently being finalised.
“Of course our Doveton Pool in the Park project will have to compete against all other potential projects nationally as the era of Scott
Morrison style rorts where Governments just hand out money to individual projects is over.
“But we’ll give it a red hot go as soon as applications open.”
A spokesperson for Dandenong state Labor MP GabrielleWilliams said:“Any state contribution will be subject to state budget rounds, and Gabrielle has been actively discussing this with council.
“Gabrielle will continue working with council over the coming years in what we understand may be a multi-stage proposal.”
Doveton-Eumemmerring Township Association chair Sean Balfour said the project was now “finally coming to fruition” – with the group hoping to learn further details on the design.
“We don’t need a ‘Mercedes’ that no one wants to use. We just want a ‘Ford’ that everyone wants to use.”
Construction of the project’s first stage will be timed during the pool’s off-season.
The rebuilt pool may include environmentally sustainable design features, such as energy capture and recovery, more efficient electric services, and water use and capture systems.
Future stages will be subject to funding from state and federal governments as well as community feedback, according to a council report.
Stage 2 could include a beach sand pit, pla-
za, canopy tree planting, upgraded splash pad, playground, outdoor fitness equipment, barbecue, toilets.
Stage 3 will upgrade the pool building.
The latter stages’ combined estimated cost is $6.84 million.
For the past two summers, the outdoor pools has opened on days 25 degrees Celsius and hotter – a reduction from the previous 30-degree temperature trigger.
However, attendances were down. In 43 days of operation in 23-’24, there were 5836 visitations – thought to be due to the lack of extreme heat days.
The Doveton Pool was developed in 1968 after a long campaign of community fundraising in response to drownings in Eumemmerring Creek.
Ms Duff said the pool was an “excellent example of the challenges with respect to infrastructure maintenance and ongoing development that the city faces”.
“It is a very sad facility currently, left in demise for a long time.
“So the community engagement process has been a significant part of the decision making ... advocating to us as a council for the facility to remain accessible to the community.”
A stack of over 3000 physical surveys made their home in Holt MP Cassandra Fernando’s office with 2000 more via email after she inquired local citizens on reception issues.
While there was a barrage of complaints and concerns, the most common factor that was more often mentioned than not was calling triple-zero.
“The people, if you look at all these surveys - with the people I’ve spoken to - they can’t call triple-zero and that’s a basic necessity for any person living in this country,” Ms Fernando said.
A total of 10,000 surveys were sent out by the office, and to receive half of them back was nothing short of astounding according to Ms Fernando.
While the survey was recent, planning for tackling the reception issues in her electorate and surrounds had been brewing since April 2022.
What began with door-knocking and calling constituents, soon developed further during the pre-polling season when she realised it was a much bigger topic and issue.
“I said to myself and to those people, if I come into government, or as a Member for Holt, that was something that was going to be a main focus for me, that these people get the coverage they need,” she said.
The Connecting Victoria campaign and the $56 million Victorian Mobile Project will see more than 230 places in the state fitted with better mobile infrastructure, to deliver more than 1400 projects by 2026.
With this, Ms Fernando said that “people who are planning or are planners that had these estates planned out, should have had the towers as something they considered”.
“When the pandemic hit in 2020, a lot of people were struggling to work, especially because they didn’t have the connectivity.
“This should have been considered by these planners before those houses were built.
“I’m glad it’s (Connecting Victoria) coming in, the towers are coming which is great,” she said.
Now that the surveys have finished, the next phase involved meeting with telco companies, namely Optus, Telstra, Vodafone and TPG.
“I want to work with the telcos and the council to make sure that these people get one of the most essential items of their life.
“I’ve spoken to Optus twice, a Zoom meeting and I met with them in parliament where I showed them the surveys.
“Showing them that was very important because this is not my word, it’s the people’s, the ones who live there,” she said.
When she spoke with Optus, Ms Fernando said that although they are in the planning phase, Optus had plans for ten sites in the surrounding areas.
She also spoke with City of Casey’s CEO Glenn Patterson where she emphasised to him that the surveys show “a community need for proper mobile coverage”.
Likewise, she also called for other elector-
ates whose citizens are experiencing reception issues to take action similar to hers, or anything that addresses the issue.
“I’ve faced the issue myself and I think just experiencing it is very important to know these people’s struggles that they have to go through.
“See, someone said here ‘we feel unsafe living here, we have either lost connection and/ or can’t even call triple-zero for emergencies’.
“I had one lady tell me that she was feeling so sick, she couldn’t call emergency services that her husband had to drive her to the hospital,” Ms Fernando said.
At a recent visit to parliament, Ms Fernando got in touch with Greenway MP and Minister for Communications Michelle Rowland, where the latter party acknowledged the issue.
“She said to me that she’s aware of it and that she’s going to take it as one of her priority issues because she knows how tough it is,” Ms Fernando said.
She emphasised that in the 21st century, having adequate mobile coverage can almost be as important as having water when it comes to accessing services and maintaining contact, especially in emergencies.
“I think the pandemic changed everyone’s lives in that sense, there’s a lot of young families out there and a lot of them work from home three to four days a week.
“These little things can change an entire aspect of your life, in this day and age mobile coverage is important in any household.
“Not just that however, but for schools, businesses, childcare centres - these places are your necessities,” she said.
The meeting with Telstra was set to take place on Tuesday 26 March, with Ms Fernando and her office confident in their progress.
As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re easing congestion by building better roads in Melbourne’s south east. We’re also removing dangerous and congested level crossings and building the Metro Tunnel.
What we’ve done
Finished building new lanes and upgrading four key intersections on Hall Road between Carrum Downs and Cranbourne West
Opened the new inbound Princes Freeway exit ramp and widened the existing outbound exit ramp at McGregor Road in Pakenham
Upgraded four intersections on Western Port Highway – at Thompsons, Hall, Ballarto and CranbourneFrankston roads
Upgraded eight new intersections so far as part of the Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road Upgrade
Train disruptions: Buses replace trains in both directions
Cranbourne and Pakenham lines 13 to 14
Road disruptions:
Princes
roads, lanes and ramps
Tell us about yourself and your job in Connected Libraries!
I’m a customer experience officer here at Bunjil Place Library.
What do you love the most about working for your job?
Recommending great books to our patrons!
What was your most memorable moment during your current role in your job?
Being named as a character in The Other Bridget!
If you were an animal, what animal would you be?
A cat - as long as it lives in a home like ours where she gets absolutely spoiled.
What were you like as a kid?
Only child so was a bookworm.
What event, past or present, would you like to witness?
Can’t think of one.
Which six dinner guests, dead or alive, would you invite to dinner?
Patrick Swayze, Carole King, Barbra Stresand, Jane Green, Kristin Hannah, and my husband.
What three words would your friends use to describe you?
Friendly, outgoing, hardworking.
What would you do on your perfect day off?
Read.
Where is your happy place?
Home with hubby.
If you had to compete on MasterChef, what dish would you cook?
A cake.
Where is your dream holiday destination?
Anywhere where I can read and relax.
Connected Libraries customer experience officer Janine Kimberley. 393610 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS
1 Visit a winery
It is one of the best times of the year to visit a winery in Victoria. Savour the newly harvested fruit and learn about the winemaking process.
2 Attend an autumn festival
There are plenty of stunning autumn festivals to explore around Victoria: the annual Grampians Grape Escape, Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival, and Pyrenees Unearthed Wine and Food Festival.
3 Host a potluck
It’s the perfect time to bring the family and friends together for a potluck. Dine with the brisk breeze and the smell of crisp leaves. Try different homemade recipes. Enjoy the cosy atmosphere.
Large-scale woven sculptural installations, moving image works and striking paintings will don the Bunjil Place Gallery as the collection called Kungka Kunpu, or Strong Women, lands on Tuesday 2 April until Sunday 21 July 2024.
In partnership with the Art Gallery of South Australia’s Tarnanthi program, Bunjil Place will feature major contemporary works by celebrated women artists from the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands.
AGSA director Rhana Devenport ONZM said, “Kungka Kunpu (Strong Women) reflects the adaptive genius, energy and dynamism of Anangu culture”.
The collection tells the inspiring tale of women supporting one another through generations, expressed and interpreted through a multitude of art pieces.
MsDevenportsaiditisa“nationalshowcase for the artistic excellence, creative diversity, innovation and cultural depth of contemporary Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art”.
“It recognises the APY art movement as a vital source of contemporary art production in Australia today.
“This exceptional travelling exhibition gives audiences outside of South Australia a rare opportunity to experience AGSA’s far-reaching and impactful Tarnanthi program,” Ms Devenport said.
Kungka Kunpu features major contemporary works by more than 60 Anangu women artists that centre on caring for Country, mapping significant sites and life-sustaining practices of the desert while sharing narratives of family obligations and relationships.
Former Prime Minister Julia Gillard AC voiced her support for the exhibition, saying that “Strong Women, the theme of Kungka Kunpu, is a message of empowerment with a
relevance that stretches far beyond Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara [APY] Lands”.
Ms Gillard, now the current chair of the Global Institute for Women’s Leadership at King’s College London at ANU also added that
“it impacts women in all parts of Australia and all corners of the world”.
“This touring exhibition represents a singular opportunity for the views and voices of Aboriginal women, sharing traditional wisdom
about the importance of female strength, to be seen and heard around our nation.”
Kungka Kunpu includes works that have been crafted from diverse materials including Tjanpi Desert Weaver’s sculptural installations made from tjanpi (grasses) and other objects.
This works ties together local knowledge and cultural meaning, serving as an interpretation of Tjanpi Desert Weaver’s collective practice and the important role of Tjanpi for Anangu artists.
Artist Mrs Kaika Burton said “we have very strong feelings towards our grasses, we love them”.
“They have sustained our lives forever, so when people ask us about our tjanpi and we say they have Tjukurpa, we really mean it,” she said.
New technology in the form of moving images helped capture the vision of young Anangu artists, with the exhibition featuring a cross-generational film of the same name, Kungka Kunpu that first premiered at Tarnanthi in 2019.
Combining live action and animation, artist Kaylene Whiskey explained that “we want our film project to show a strong, positive message about life in a remove Indigenous community”.
“Us young women here in Indulkana love to dance and have fun and make each other laugh, we’re proud to live on our land and hold on to our culture and language,” she said.
Among the exhibiting artists in Kungka Kunpu (Strong Women) are Angkuna Baker, Kunmanara (Wawiriya) Burton, Nyunmiti Burton and Mrs Kaika Burton.
Other artists present also include Sylvia Ken, Kunmanara (Militjari) Pumani, Rhoda Tjitayi, Tjanpi Desert Weavers, Kaylene Whiskey and Yaritji Tingila Young.
For more information visit bunjilplace.com. au/events/kungka-kunpu-strong-women
Lovers Lane Planting Day
Cannibal Creek Catchment Landcare are holding another community planting day at Lovers Lane, Garfield.
Help plant out 5000 indigenous tube stock to continue the revegetation of five acres, creating habitat for local endangered species such as Southern Brown Bandicoots.
Bring gloves, sturdy and waterproof footwear, sunscreen, hat, a water bottle and eye protection.
A coffee van will be available, while a morning tea and a sausage sizzle lunch will be provided for volunteers.
For more information, contact Cannibal Creek Landcare Group on cannibalcreeklandcare@ gmail.com or phone Pam on 0407 876 935.
RSVP essential for catering by Monday 29 April.
· The event is on Sunday 5 May from 9.30am to 2pm.
Harewood Heritage Day
Tours of Harewood House and environmental walks of grounds, local historical displays, historic cars and vintage machinery, period costumes, food stalls, live entertainment, traditional trades and craft demonstrations.
$15 adult, $10 concession and $40 for two adults and two concessions.
Proceeds to Kooweerup Regional Health Service.
For more information, contact Bev Edwards on 0400 584 235 or harewoodcharityday@gmail. com
· Sunday 7 April from 10am to 3pm at 3300 South Gippsland Highway, Kooweerup, next to Tooradin Airfield.
Learn to play ukulele
The ukulele is a very simple instrument to learn – perfect for the lazy potential musician. No need for the ability to read music, or practise endless scales or devour a whole heap of theory.
The U-Bute Uke Group is a relaxed and happy group which makes magical music together. Bring a love of music and a sense of fun.
Enrol in the ‘Introduction to Ukulele’ 9 week course at the Outlook Community Centre Pakenham, with the view to graduate to join the group.
· Course begins on Friday 26 April from 12.30pm to 2pm. Contact Outlook Community Centre on 5940 4728 for further details. Bookings essential.
Emerald photographer Tracey Sharp is running the Hills with Heart project, which is aiming to capture the stories of 50 local families with a exhibition at the Hills Hub later in the year.
There is a $100 participating fee per family, which will be donated to the CFA or SES brigade of your choice.
· For more information, visit sharpmemories. com.au
Emerald Rotary Market
A community market in the heart of the Hills. Crafts, produce, collectables, treasures, hot food, fresh coffee, ice cream and so much more will be available. The market will be located behind the shops off Kilvington Drive and opposite the primary school on the oval on Heroes Avenue.
· For more information, view their website or contact 0408 769 491.
Open mic for artists
Cardinia Creative Community is a space for animators, artists, musicians, writers, poets, comedians, actors, dreamers, visionaries, danc-
Barrel racing and rope and tie events. Lots of action and fun for the whole family, including the ‘Dashhound Dash’ and the dog high jump.
The Lang Lang Rodeo has been run on Easter Monday since 1944. Come and bring the family for a fast-moving action-packed day. Enjoy watching the cowboys as they attempt to ride the bucking bulls and horses.
To purchase tickets, visit ticketebo. com.au/lang-lang-pa&h/lang-langrodeo-2024
· Monday 1 April from 8.30am at 120 Westernport Road,Lang Lang.
ers, storytellers and creators to come together to support one another to make dreams come true.
The group meets on the last Friday of the month from 7pm to 9pm, at the Officer Food Truck Park, 474 Princes Hwy, Offticer.
· For more information, visit facebook.com/ groups/870966037793058
Probus Club of Pakenham East
The Probus Club of Pakenham East is encouraging new members to join. Meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month at the Cardinia Club, commencing at 10am.
A short meeting is followed by morning tea and the opportunity to get to know members prior to the introduction of the guest speaker. Various activities are held throughout the month.
· For more information, phone president Gary on 0428 255 178 or contact secretary Dorothy on probuspakenhameast@gmail.com
Housing Support and Advice
Are you experiencing homelessness? At risk of having no safe place to live? Living in low-cost accommodation with no support?
Visit the Pakenham Library and have a chat with a support worker to discuss available options
and resources.
· Every Wednesday between 2pm to 4pm. Bookings are not required. If you require more information, please phone Pakenham Library on 5940 6200.
Casey Cardinia Life Activities Club
Are you newly retired, or new to the area, or just wanting to enjoy your freedom, or expand your social life?
Casey Cardinia Life Activities Club can offer you stimulating activities such as weekly social/chat activities with low key in line dancing if you want to tap your feet and great afternoon teas, day/ short and long trips away via (coach/flights), Weekly Morning Coffee Club, Monthly Saturday Country Pub Lunches, Monthly Evening Dineouts, Weekly Table Tennis Club, Walking Groups, Seasonal Daytime Musical Theatre Outings, and more! We welcome all you gentlemen out there with time on your hands! Ladies, come along, this is your time to meet like minded people and make those new friends.
Come along and get to know the club by visiting on a Thursday at 2pm at Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House or join us on a Wednesday at 10am for a Coffee at Little Sparrow Fountain Gate.
· For more information, contact Enquiry Officer Gloria 0468 363 616.
Berwick Springs VIEW Club
Affiliated with The Smith Family, the Berwick Springs VIEW Club is a not-for-profit organisation, with the aim to fundraise to support Learning for Life students.
The club currently supports seven students of varying ages with their education expenses and are about to take on an eighth student.
The club meets on the first Monday of each month in the Berwick Springs Hotel function room from 11.30am, where members enjoy a lunch and then host a guest speaker.
Throughout the year, the club has a couple of special fundraisers, as well as casual morning tea and lunch for interested ladies. The club is always looking for new members in all age groups.
· For more information, contact Shirley on 0419 878 481 or email berwicksprings.viewclub@ gmail.com
Pakenham captain Dale Tormey could simply do more for a team that was overwhelmed by an opponent with clearly superior depth.
That, in a nutshell, sums up the 2023/24 Casey Cardinia Premier Division grand final between Tooradin and Pakenham.
As things stood on Saturday night, Tormey’s magnificent 117 - just the third grand final century in the last 25 years - was the individual highlight of a grueling day at the office that saw the Lions nudge their way to a ‘just-competitive’ 221.
Tormey entered the fray on the fourth ball of the match, with he and Chris Smith holding the hopes of Pakenham in their hands.
And the stats show why.
Smith (1022 at 92.91) and Tormey (795 at 56.79) ended the season with a combined 1817 runs at 72.68, while their nine teammates on the weekend finished with 1337 at 19.66.
When Smith fell for 14, brilliantly caught by man-of-the-match Cal O’Hare off the bowling of Brad Butler; the onus fell squarely on the shoulders of Tormey.
Amid bursts of brilliance the left-hander played a defiant knock; the stats above clearly in mind as he and Rob Elston (20 off 117 balls) held the dangerous Seagulls at bay.
Tormey hit eight boundaries and four towering sixes in his 226-ball knock, that at least gave his side a chance.
The Seagulls would pass the target easily, winning by eight wickets after Cal O’Hare’s (101 not out) memorable century, and a freeflowing knock from Tormey’s counterpart Mick Sweeney (59 not out off 62) that sealed the deal for the Gulls.
Sweeney played with freedom; know-
ing class acts such as Russell Lehman, Tom Hussey, Dylan Sutton, Tyler Evans, Butler, Ben Mantel and Ben Parrott were still to come.
It was a luxury not afforded Tormey, who was proud of his team for making it to the final weekend of the season.
“It’s obviously disappointing to not win it, but we gave it our all and someone has to lose on a day like this,” Tormey said.
“It sucks that it’s us, but it was a great effort from the boys to get here.
“I’m super-proud of the effort the boys have put in; I couldn’t be prouder, but full credit to
Tooradin, they’ve been the best team all year and they’ve shown that over the last two days.”
Recovering from 0-0 to 1-43, Tormey thought his Lions were back in the premiership hunt.
“My mindset doesn’t change whether I walk in fourth ball, or walk out in the 50th over,” he said.
“I play my game, it stacks up, well I think it does anyway, in most situations, so there was no panic or anything like that.
“I love batting with Chris (Smith), I love watching him bat, he’s one of the best play-
ers I’ve ever played with and that includes at a higher standard.
“It was disappointing when he went out, because I thought we were getting on top and we weren’t far away from posting a pretty big score.
“My mindset didn’t change, I wanted to score, but also wanted to bat time, because the longer I bat the more runs I score; which benefits the team.
“Boof (Jason Williams) batted well towards the end, but we just couldn’t get that second score through the middle order.
“To get that extra 50 or 60 runs that we needed, we needed a team effort; and the Tooradin boys showed us how to do that today.
“They fielded really well, they hunted well… full credit to them; they were too good.”
The Lions had one hint of a chance on day two, when Tooradin number-three Peter Sweeney (40) gave a low-percentage chance off the first ball of his innings.
“Cal and Pete batted really well, but if Pete’s first ball sticks; a half chance to Boof (Jason Williams) at mid-on, then all of a sudden they’re two for 20 odd and it’s a completely different ball game,” Tormey said.
“But those two batted really well; they made a 100-run partnership and took the game away from us.
“They were a class above in all three facets of the game, they bat very deep and have a good understanding of what they need to do with the ball.
“They still had quality bowlers that didn’t bowl and quality bats that weren’t required to bat; they’re a ridiculously good team and all credit to them.
“They were the best team this season and thoroughly deserve their success.”
There was magic in the air at Toomuc Reserve on Saturday as familiar faces gathered as far as the eye could see to celebrate the rich history and 85th birthday of the Pakenham Lions Netball Club.
Laughter and joy filled the room as valued Life Members, past and present players, coaches, committee, sponsors and families all joined together to celebrate the club’s remarkable journey.
Special guests included Member for Pakenham Emma Vulin; Cr Carol Ryan - who has strong historic ties to the club - and Matt Blanchard, Netball Operations Coordinator for Outer East Football Netball.
Cardinia Shire Mayor Jack Kowarzik also sent a special birthday message to the club, while guests were treated to a video package that highlighted the club’s proud history and the evolution of the game they all love.
Pakenham Lions Netball Club President Marg Jones said it was a very special day for the club.
“The club was honoured to come together to acknowledge 85 years of dedication and passion, and celebrate the countless memories, achievements and triumphs,” Jones said.
“We also celebrated the life-long friendships forged, that have defined the club’s legacy over 85 amazing years and we look forward to inspiring the generations to come.”
Jones also extended her appreciation to those that had collected information for the video by speaking to valued Life Members; reading through the club’s minutes and records and to those that provided amazing newspaper articles.
“From this video the club is now collating a History Book that will be launched mid this year, as part of the club’s ongoing 85th birthday celebrations,” Jones confirmed, before praising the Corrigan family for their dedication in producing the video.
Life Members were a key focus of the day, with the club acknowledging current stalwarts and those sadly no longer with us.
Maureen McGrath, affectionately known
as ‘Brownie’, was the Lions first Life Member in 1963.
She still actively supports the club and praised the organising committee for the detailed history on display.
Many generations of families gathered to celebrate this milestone.
The daughter (Jan Ahern), granddaughter (Katie De La Rue) and great granddaughter (Seisia De La Rue) of founding member - and third Life Member - Lorna Anderson, were all on hand to celebrate the huge occasion.
The club was also honoured to have valued past players Alma Patullo and Thelma Young in attendance - both in their nineties – and the daughters of Life Member Norma Jackson; Di Dunn and GloriaWebster.
Gloria attended with her daughter Michelle.
Current A grade player Evie Drake, whose great grandmother Joyce Reid was one of the club’s original players, was there with her grandmother Barb Murphy and mum Libby Drake-Molineux; both successful past players in their own rights.
Brenda O’Brien attended with her daughter Raegan.
“I would to express my sincerest gratitude to all that attended this wonderful celebration and thank personally the hard working committee who coordinated the event,” Jones said.
The club was also grateful for the delicious afternoon tea provided by Girraween Creations; live music provided by ‘It Takes Two’, and to the Pakenham Football Club for the use of the social rooms.
The inaugural $100,000 Ladbrokes Southside Challenge will highlight Victoria’s first Good Friday Night meeting on Friday 29 March, with the Good Friday Appeal set to be the big winner.
An initiative of Southside Racing, the Ladbrokes Southside Challenge is a maiden event to be run over 1300m, with the field made up of six runners trained at Cranbourne, and six runners trained at Pakenham.
There will be a maximum of one horse per trainer.
Leading Cranbourne trainer Mick Price will captain the ‘home’ team, while Pakenham based Peter Moody will lead the ‘away’ team.
The race will have a strong charity element – one of several fundraising initiatives to be
run through the night – with all proceeds donated to the Good Friday Appeal.
“We’re delighted to launch this exciting initiative at our first Good Friday Night meeting,” said Southside Racing CEO Neil Bainbridge.
“When Southside Racing made its submission to race on Good Friday night, we had a very clear vision that the timeslot presented a fantastic opportunity to create a community event that would not only engage people in our sport, but also support fundraising efforts for the Good Friday Appeal.
“The Ladbrokes Southside Challenge will showcase the trainers that have invested their training operations and trust in Southside, while supporting a very worthy cause.”
Other fundraising activities on the night in-
clude the
of several
Southside Racing is Australia’s newest racing club and was formed following the merger of the Cranbourne Turf Club and Pakenham Racing Club.
Southside Racing is home to the state’s leading training facilities, producing approximately one third of all staters in Victoria.
It conducts over 60 race meetings and approximately 500 races each season while generating over $300m annually into the local economy.
Pakenham’s youth men’s outfit scored wins in both its games on the weekend to top the ladder two rounds in to the 2024 season.
Braden Venning’s side backed up an 84-68 Saturday night win over Mornington with a 141-76 smashing of Chelsea on Sunday.
The game against Mornington was a defensive masterclass, while Sunday’s huge win marked the best offensive output the coach has been part of.
Closing down reigning All-Star Five player Matthew Wolfe was key to stopping Mornington, with the emerging talent kept to just six points and five rebounds for the game.
“We put a lot of effort into him and the collective buy in to keep showing him bodies was crucial,” Venning said.
“Jackson Grey did a fantastic job and to have 19 points himself as well was outstanding – he lit it up from deep.”
The game was effectively over at halftime, with the Warriors’ grit keeping the hosts to just 20 points at the main break, opening up a 25-point lead.
The visitors experimented in the second half, which saw Mornington trim the lead, but they never seriously threatened.
Ethan Small sunk five threes in a high-scoring last quarter to cap off a strong showing for Pakenham.
Small’s shooting was again on-song the following day, scoring five of eight, as Pakenham annihilated Chelsea.
Overall, Pakenham scored 18 threes compared to their opponents’ 10, while nabbing 19 steals to Chelsea’s five in a complete performance.
“It was just one of those games where everything we did worked; they followed every direction flawlessly, they shot really well from deep,” Venning said.
Luke Rawiri led the scoring with 23 points off the bench to go with five steals, Kaleb Beveridge was immense with 13 points, 14 rebounds and, for the second consecutive week,
Two fantastic contests provided the highlights of round five of the South West Gippsland Dart League with Gembrook and Generals scraping in by the skin of their teeth.
Gembrook had a huge 8-7 victory over perennial league powerhouse Just Social, consolidating fourth spot and moving two games clear of their opposition; who now slip to an unfamiliar seventh place on the ladder.
In such a tight game it was important for someone to stand up and be counted, and Steve from Gembrook answered the call with a brilliant 104 peg-out.
The challenges keep on coming for Gembrook, who face second-placed Predators in the highlight match of round six.
The other close one this week went to Garfield-team Generals, who denied Dart Attack its first victory of the season with a nail-biting 8-7 victory.
The Generals have now won two games in the opening five rounds after a round two victory over Hoodies.
They’ll have their improvement put to the test this week against a dangerous and rebounding Just Social.
Dart Attack is still searching for its first win, but it may come against a struggling Railway in round six.
The individual highlight of round five came from Chris from Snipers, who threw the highest peg-out of the season (140) in a 14-1 thumping of Bullseyes.
The Snipers currently sit on top, but equal on points with Predators and Cheers, who had easy victories over Dart Vaders and 26ers respectively.
In the two remaining games; Fore moved to ninth spot on the ladder with an 11-4 victory over Railway, while Mud Rats consolidated fifth position on the ladder with the same scoreline over Hoodies.
Five players have scored 20 toms or more for the season, with Steve from Predators leading the way on 30, with Dean from Snipers hot on his tail with 29.
Three players from Cheers are next best, with Ant (25), Shane (23) and Liam (22) all in winning contention.
Liam scored the most tons this week with seven.
a crowd-pleasing dunk, while the three Small brothers scored 52 points between them.
Chelsea threatened Pakenham at times in a high-scoring first quarter, but theWarriors still went in to the break with a 16-point lead, and extended that to 26 points at the half.
The benchmark came in the third quarter, which Pakenham won 42-12.
“We increased the defensive pressure and had multiple steals in their back court for layups in that third quarter,” the coach said.
“It was a real statement game that tells the league that we mean business and we’re coming for it.
“It will put a target on our backs, but we relish that because it’s where we’ll grow and learn the most.
“We’re only scratching the surface – we have a lot more room to grow so it should be a fun season.”
The women also had a positive result, winning 80-58 against Albury-Wodonga Bandits, opening up a big lead early, going in at the half up 39-20.
The strength of Chloe Zielinski and Chelsea Schreuder was on show, as they scored 12 points each and combined for a whopping 30 rebounds – including a collective 13 offensive rebounds.
After missing last week, the class of the rising Hayley Letts off the bench was on display.
She didn’t start any of the quarters on court, but made an immediate impact late in each of the four quarters, finishing with 17 points and six rebounds.
Gembrook v Predators and Cheers v Mud Rats are the standout matches scheduled for round six.
Results R5: Mud Rats 11 def Hoodies 4, Predators 14 def Dart Vaders 1, Snipers 14 def Bullseyes 1, Gembrook 8 def Just Social 7, Cheers 10 def 26ers 5, Generals 8 def Dart Attack 7, Fore 11 def Railway 4. Ladder: Snipers, Predators, Cheers 20, Gembrook, Mud Rats 16, Dart Vaders 12, Just Social, 26ers, Fore, Generals 8, Railway 4, Hoodies, Bullseyes, Dart Attack 0. Fixture R6: Bullseyes (13) v Dart Vaders (6), Hoodies (12) v Snipers (1), Gembrook (4) v Predators (2), Cheers (3) v Mud Rats (5), Generals (10) v Just Social (7), Fore (9) v 26ers (8), Railway (11) v Dart Attack (14).
Tuesday 2 April - Friday 5 April
Cubbies
10.00 am – 4.00 pm daily
Craft 11.00 am – 3.00 pm daily
Free entry
Come down and join us in the Plaza for some cubby and curated craft fun by Tiny Cupboard Creatives.
Our famous Cubby Village is the perfect place for kids and parents to play and let their imaginations run wild as they explore the different themed cubbies.
Tuesday 9, Wednesday 10 &
Thursday 11 April,
10.00 am – 1.00 pm
Free, no bookings required
Drop by Bunjil Place for free art and craft activities inspired by Kungka Kunpu (Strong Women) during the school holidays.
Children and their families are invited to get hands on and create their own works of art that explore themes and ideas from the exhibition.
Tuesday 2 April
Easter Bunny appearance 4.00 pm
Zootopia (PG) 5.00 pm
Thursday 4 April
The Bad Guys (PG) 4.30 pm
Tickets are $5.00 and includes an Easter treat
Over the Easter school holidays the Bunjil Place Outdoor Screen will be showing the furry family films Zootopia and The Bad Guys that will bring out the animal in you!
You can even meet the Easter bunny who will hop by before the Zootopia film.
Presented by The Wholesome Hour
Thursday 11 April, 10.00 am & 2.00 pm
Tickets $16.00
Polite Mammals is a totally wild, neo-vaudevillian variety show the whole family can enjoy. Celebrate animals of all kinds: real, imaginary, sparkly, stinky, polite and rude!
Inspired by iconic renegade 90s Aussie kid’s TV (The Ferals, Lift Off, Recovery).
Presented by A-List Entertainment
Friday 5 April, 8.00 pm
Tickets from $49.90 - $54.90
The Umbilical’s take the energy of live performance and the spectacle of cinema and smashes them together into a new show performed simultaneously on stage and on the big screen. It will blow your mind way more literally than you are expecting. Suitable for ages 12+.
Presented by Little Wing Puppets
Friday 12 April
Performances
10.30 am & 1.00 pm
Tickets Performance $8.00
A Little Bit of Blue is an interactive environmental detective story, told with puppetry.
The story begins with strange disappearances from Mrs Mavis Hooley’s home. Little things go missing: clothes pegs; a tea cup; a ball of wool. But then the thief takes it just one step too far. Mavis calls in a Detective to investigate. The children’s role is to help him solve the case.
Tuesday 9 April -
Friday 12 April
Daily sessions at 11.00 am, 12.00 pm, 1.30 pm, 2.30 pm & 3.30 pm
Free, no bookings required
A world of imagination, costumes and stories!
The Nylon Zoo is a choreographed participatory event - you are the dancers and performers.
Children will be able to dress up and participate in a costume parade before settling inside one of the three installations for a storytelling session.
On show until
Sunday 7 April
Tuesday to Sunday, 10.00 am - 4.00 pm
Free event
Immerse yourself in the future of art and design from our local region. Bringing together artists across a range of media, Emergent 2023: Graduate Showcase Exhibition presents the next wave of artists, designers, makers and photographers at this very special celebration of contemporary art and design by graduating VCE and VET students.