the Liberal Party believed Bruce was a seat they could win
but it ended up being a disaster that saw an almost 10 per cent swing against the party
which was initially projected to be a marginal seat
saw Julian Hill return the South East seat to a Labor stronghold with a 15 per cent margin in the two-party preferences (2PP)
Hill tacked on 40,111 primary votes (46.38 per cent)
compared to Safi’s 19,588 primary votes (22.71 per cent)
Liberal candidate Zahid Safi would only win two polling booths: Harkaway and Narre Warren North
Safi was mired by a series of controversies surrounding his NDIS businesses
which the Age reported will be investigated by the sector’s new watchdog
Hill led the 2PP race with 53,311 votes (65.28 per cent) compared to Safi’s 29,945 (34.72 per cent)
Safi just held on to Narre Warren North’s handle with a 1.8 per cent swing over Hill
who had 655 2PP votes (49.10 per cent) to Safi’s 679 (50.90 per cent)
where Safi had 399 2PP votes (57.66 per cent) to Hill’s 293 (42.34 per cent)
Hill averaged a 2PP swing of 12 per cent against Safi
a Liberal-leaning suburb which had large sections taken by Bruce in a recent redistribution
saw an average of 13 per cent swing in Hill’s favour in all six polling booths
Hill’s biggest win was in Timbarra Community Centre
where he notched 556 votes (62.61 per cent) compared to Safi’s 332 (37.39 per cent)
the Akoonah Park booths had a swing of 6.61 per cent to Hill
with 6267 votes (53.67) to Safi’s 5410 (46.33)
the average swing to Hill was still strong at 10.57 per cent
Berwick booths saw swings against long-time Liberal MP Jason Wood by beyond 10 per cent in the 2PP
Wood was asked on election night about the state of Bruce
“Everyone puts their hand up to run as candidates with the best intentions
I congratulate Julian Hill and Zahid Safi for being there,” he said
I don’t think we have got any candidates up at the moment.”
The petition of certain citizens of the State of Victoria draws to the attention of the Legislative Council the unilateral changing of the name of Berwick Springs Lake by the Minister for Planning
This name change creates division within our multifaith community
ignores the historical significance of the name
and was done with no community consultation with either local residents or property owners
The petitioners are aggrieved by the failure to consult with the local community on this significant name change and the disrespect it demonstrates
The petitioners are also aggrieved by the division created in our multifaith community by a decision that appears to privilege one faith over others
the petitioners are aggrieved by the complete disregard for the historical significance of the name Berwick Springs
The name originates from 1855 when William Clarke named his property 'The Springs' after the natural springs in the area
Edward Greaves continued this heritage in 1903
maintaining the name for his homestead on Stockyard Drive
has been disregarded by this decision.The petitioners therefore request that the Legislative Council call on the Government to revoke the unilateral renaming of Berwick Springs Lake
implement proper local community consultation regarding any future naming decision regarding the lake found in the Berwick Springs Reserve and investigate the processes which led to the unilateral approval by the Minister for Planning
Create change and stand up for your beliefs by starting your own petition today
Take a look at some other petitions related to causes you care about
There are many passionate individuals just like you who are working towards positive change
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Her love of bathing has, of course, inspired a holistic but balanced approach to wellness and beauty in general. A business owner and new mum, Freya tempers cold plunging with baby bedtimes, minimal skincare with capsule dressing. Her routine is real and refreshing but aspirational — think deep work before sunrise and swims in the afternoon. Our interview with Freya
and the inner workings of her beauty habits
An appreciation of beauty is a core value of mine so naturally
I seek out beauty in basically everything I do
it starts with my body and listening to its cues over any ‘should-do’s’
I guess the other part of this is figuring out ‘the right reason’...
in the age of wellness being slapped on to basically anything
is having a very tuned filter of ‘does this actually contribute to my wellbeing?’
My go-to’s for feeling connected to myself
After spending three formative years in Norway in my 20s
I particularly loved the sauna (or any other means of getting sweaty) followed by a cold dip
Going from hot to cold is such a powerful contrast that forces you into your body and I just love it
Even better if it is done in a beautiful environment
which I believe helps maintain the presence for longer
I think I have just become more discerning and attuned to my own needs
Tuning into your body's cues takes time and practice
Being more attuned has also helped me be more fluid and free in my approach because I can rely on my own signals rather than structures and rules
Sense Of Self came from a desire to create spaces of belonging and connection as an antidote to our modern lives that are increasingly pulling us out of our bodies
eating up our idle time and fracturing our social connections
but a part of the foundation of SOS is to bring things back to the basics
which also means not making things too complicated
The difference between a bathhouse and a building with pools and saunas is about the meaning you create
and therefore the quality of connection and experiences you have
so finding the time is often one of the biggest barriers to relaxation and self-care
I see it as our job to make sure that someone's experience is as impactful as possible
operations and exceptional customer service
I have to be honest and say that I haven’t used our space all that much in the past year
which is because I have a 6-month-old baby (Florence or “Flossy” as she is affectionately known)
I loved coming in to SOS before anyone else arrived for a sauna and cold plunge after a morning run
I also love to sneak down and behave like a guest after work
but I'm inclined to want to look after people
which can be a bit confusing for someone if the person they were just in the bath with then gets up and starts waiting on them..
My time in Norway running up mountains and diving into beautiful
Other than being all of my favourite things in one place (mountains
bathing) I was so deeply moved by the use of design and nature to amplify relaxation and introspection
Not much is typical at the moment because of my baby
but I do love a routine so (for better or worse) I'm always striving for one
I tend to get up early before anyone else because I love alone time
and find it's when my thinking is clearest
I wake up and head straight to the coffee machine
and then either sit at my desk and sink my teeth into some deep work over coffee
On the rare occasion I'll sneak into SOS before our team arrives
But I like to knock out my to-do list and deep thinking first thing so I can be more present and available
either with our team or my family during the day
Depending on Flossy’s care arrangements I'll then go for a run with my friend Jules, or have a coffee and cuddle in bed with my partner Fraz, Floss and our whippet Twiggy before having a shower and getting ready for the day
They are brief but I really love a shower for shifting funks
While I don’t invest much in skincare and makeup
I do love curating a wardrobe of simple items that all work well together
so relish getting into my clothes for the day
My favourite part is putting on my collection of Hamish Munro rings
I have an aspiration to swim laps in the late afternoon more
I absolutely love the beauty of swimming — the light
is that the evening is structured around baby bedtime
which I have learnt to love as an anchor in our life
Previous to having a baby we had many after-work activities and they often tipped me over the edge into exhaustion
then we put on our heavy moisturisers together
get into our PJs before she has a feed and goes down
Fraz and I finally have a moment to ourselves
which is spent over dinner where we catch up on our day
talk about our feelings (ha!) and make all the plans
Then we tend to migrate to the couch with Twiggy
While I love watching shows I can get too absorbed mid-week so will often peel off and read whatever novel I am devouring
Fiction is my wind down — something completely different to reality
A rich moisturiser that doesn’t feel too oily and an SPF that doesn’t sting (and can be re-applied without feeling like you're wearing kiddy zinc)
It’s a bit daggy but I have very sensitive skin so my go-to moisturiser is La Roche-Posay Toleriane Riche for my night time moisturiser
And I am forever on the hunt for an SPF that ticks all the boxes..
I have always felt under-qualified in the beauty and makeup department and as such I don’t wear much. But the item that never leaves my bathroom bag is Bare Minerals Complexion Rescue
No skills required to slap that one on and feel a bit cuter
Burning a scent, either an essential oil or natural incense, to settle into some cosy time, to focus, or even to mark a shift in state in the home (i.e to go from cleaning to deep thinking mode). I genuinely love our SOS House Blend Essential Oil that we diffuse in the bathhouse — it is so nostalgic and delish
It’s not a product and again not very sexy but I love a laser facial at a derm clinic
so every six months or so I go in for some laser genesis to spruce up my skin
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Residents in Berwick’s south are set to receive a safety upgrade as an elevated crossing across Eden Rise Village is scheduled to begin works in early May
This development comes as the council was successful in securing a $100,000 grant from the Transport Accident Commission’s Local Government Grant program
visited the crossing to make the announcement
where he said that the “council is committed to improving road safety across Casey”
“I welcome the $100,000 grant via the TAC program; this grant will go towards the installation of a raised pedestrian crossing with flashing lights at the intersection of Cresthaven Boulevard and Ridgemont Drive in Berwick,” he said
traffic surveys conducted at the intersection of Cresthaven Boulevard and Ridgemont Drive revealed a total of 137 pedestrians crossing at this location
respectively 32 crossings in the morning peaks and 37 in the evening peaks
the crossing will not only provide community members with a safer crossing point
but will reduce the speed of approaching vehicles,” Taylor said
“Local residents have been strong advocates for safety upgrades in this area and they will be very pleased to see the works commencing in early May.”
Traffic surveys that were conducted outside property 5 Cresthaven Boulevard and 20 metres west of Ridegemont Drive showed 85th percentile speeds of 49.7 km/h going west
flat-top speedhumps have a demonstrated history of reducing speeds by up to 24 per cent
with the future raised platform expected to perform likewise
Works are also expected to be completed in the coming months
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DROUIN GOLF The May Monthly Medal was up for grabs at Drouin Golf and Country Club on Saturday with a […]
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Labor’s Cassandra Fernando has won her second term as the MP for Holt
She is appearing on track to harvest a higher share of the primary votes than in her last election in 2022
almost 60 per cent of the votes have been counted
and Fernando has secured about 46 per cent of the primary votes
followed by Liberal’s Annette Samuel (23.7 per cent)
One Nation’s Trevor Hammond (8.3 per cent)
Family First’s Shane Foreman (5.1 per cent)
and Legalise Cannabis’s Riley Aickin (4.7 per cent)
Fernando is projected to win about 65.57 per cent of the votes under the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC)’s two-candidate-preferred model
Fernando gained 40.86 per cent of the primary votes and won the seat with a margin of 7.1 per cent after preferences
Liberal has suffered a 5.68 per cent swing for one of the bluest booths in Holt: Pearcedale
Samuel secured 50.3 per cent of them after preferences
the then-Liberal candidate gained 55.98 per cent of the after-preference votes
Fernando celebrated the victory with her team on the election night
with the room erupting in cheers and applause
Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards and Bass MP Jordan Crugnale were also present to witness the victory
Emotions were at their highest among the crowd when the television projected that the Opposition Leader Peter Dutton would lose his own seat
Fernando addressed the crowd with excitement and tears and thanked her team members
“I am deeply honoured and humbled to stand before you as the re-elected member for Holt,” she said
“This is a community where I went to school
Representing this community in our Federal Parliament has been the privilege of my entire life
“And the fundamental belief that no matter where you come from
and honoured to be able to represent the community for one more term
She said her amazing team helped her navigate her pregnancy during the whole campaign
We were staunch in what we wanted to do and to do it in a way that wouldn’t cause me any health issues
and they always made sure that my health came first.”
this election campaign was different from her last one as she was defending everything she had done in the last three years
Speaking of her plan for the following three years
she said she would keep working hard to make sure that the community gets the infrastructure that they need
“That’s one of my big priorities: infrastructure,” she said
and also to ease the cost of living for them by making sure that every person in my community can see a GP for free
who is in a surprisingly tight fight to retain his seat
said the Trump Presidency and the policy of reigning in working from home were damaging to the Liberal’s campaign
we didn’t know it would actually end up being a wrecking ball,” he said
“I’m not saying we ran a great campaign
“Our policy on working from home was one of the dumbest policies ever
When asked about Bruce candidate Safi’s heavy defeat
he said: “I never kick a person when they are down
“I don’t think we have any candidates that are up at the moment.”
The famous words of the Noble Park theme song echoed through the rooms at Pat Wright Oval on Saturday after the Bulls recorded a hard-fought 12.7(79) to 9.11(65) victory over Berwick
It wasn’t all smooth sailing for the Bulls
who fell asleep early after both clubs lined up for a moving service to honour the Anzacs
who came into the contest after opening round losses prior to Easter
Berwick bounced out of the blocks in spectacular fashion
booting the first three goals of the match – in the space of five minutes – to have the Bulls firmly on the back foot
Jai Neal began proceedings with an easy mark in the goal-square
kicking the first of his five goals for the match unopposed just two metres out from goal
Denzel Toland then took a great mark and kicked truly
and when Neal outmanoeuvred Bulls’ defender Dean Jones and kicked a ripper on the run…the Wickers were off to a flyer
Berwick had all the momentum; but missed chances from Ben Todd and Harrison Canning let the home-town Bulls off the hook
Those missed chances were the only downside of a great opening burst from Berwick
who looked quicker and sharper all over the ground
with six pointers to Mason Torrance and Jack Murray cutting the margin to just eight points at quarter time
The Bulls then kicked the opening goal of the second term before Berwick took control once again
with back-to-back goals to key-forward Daniel Pinter kicking the gap back out to 14
The battle between both midfields was intense
Tahj De La Rue and Todd in the thick of the action for Berwick
Harry Broderick and skipper Jordan Marson were up for the challenge for the Bulls
Noble finished off the second quarter strongly
with the lively Liam O’Rourke kicking three goals in 11 minutes to give the home side a five-point lead at the major interval
before being given far too much latitude from an unfocussed Berwick defence
O’Rourke had no one within 10 metres of him when he accepted a mark and kicked his third for the afternoon just prior to the half-time siren
Berwick then had the better of the third term
with Neal kicking two of their goals in a highlight reel performance
The classy forward kicked two right-foot snaps
the first from close range after reading the play beautifully and the second a standout choice as goal-of-the-day
before snapping it through from 35-metres out off one step
Jaylan Atton kicked the last of the third quarter off his left to give Berwick a four-point lead at the final change
Noble then showed grit and determination in the last quarter
kicking the opening four goals to lock away the four premiership points
Sam Pascuzzi kicked things off with a mark on the lead before Marson kicked a true captain’s goal after a free-kick for head-high contact
O’Rourke then snagged his fourth; holding off Blake Westra with his left hand and taking a one-hander with his right
Any hopes of a Berwick comeback were then lost after Bulls’ ruck Daniel Knapper converted a free-kick after a ruck-infringement from his opposite number Jesse Cirulis
cut the margin to 14 points at the final siren
O’Rourke was Noble’s only multiple goal-kicker
Marson Kevin Kean and Matt Nelson were reliable figures throughout the full four quarters of football
Berwick will consider this one as the one that got away
with the Wickers just falling away when it mattered most in the final term
There were encouraging signs for new coach Andrew Williams
with Neal and Pinter providing solid contributions in the front half
skipper Will Arthurson and Brandon Cunningham held firm in defence
Things don’t get any easier for the Bulls and Wickers this week
with Noble hitting the road to take on undefeated Blackburn
while Berwick returns home to Edwin Flack Reserve to host top-of-the-table East Ringwood
Blackburn came from 11 points down at three-quarter time to score an 18-point win over South Croydon
while East Ringwood held on by six points at home against recently-promoted Mitcham
Zac Thiessen kicked three goals and Angus Strachan was best in Vermont’s 15-point win over Doncaster East
while Rowville kept its perfect start to the season intact with a 30point victory over reigning-premier Balwyn
The first half was an arm-wrestle before the Hawks blew the game apart with a highly-impressive 6.6 to 1.0 third stanza
Skipper Anthomy Brolic was superb for the Hawks all day
kicking two goals in a standout performance
while key-forward Lachlan Wynd kicked four goals to be the leading scorer on the ground
The Hawks host Vermont this week in the Eastern Premier Division match of the round
Other Games: South Croydon 9.10(64) def by Blackburn 12.10(82)
East Ringwood 10.10(70) def Mitcham 10.4(64)
Vermont 13.11(89) def Doncaster East 10.14(74)
Fixture R3: Blackburn (3) v Noble Park (6)
A 66-year-old woman is in critical condition after being struck by her vehicle when it was stolen outside a Berwick hospital earlier today
and police are still looking for the 2012 brown Ford Territory with the registration DEX 581
It is understood that the woman was accompanying her husband from their car to the hospital entrance on Robin Avenue around 10:45am
a man who had just left the hospital jumped into the vacant car
The owner of the car saw this unfold and attempted to stop the man from driving away
but she was then struck by the moving vehicle
The Upper Beaconsfield woman has been transported to a Melbourne hospital in a critical condition
is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
Round four of Southern Division 3 will begin with a bang
with two undefeated sides tussling it out at Mick Morland Reserve
Berwick Springs will welcome St Kilda City with the goal of shutting down their percentage (188.53) and perfect record
Both sides have followed a similar linear path to begin their season
with their fair share of close games before comfortably winning last week
Berwick Springs has kicked at least 12 goals in each game
fuelled by Ty Ellison with 16 through three games
St Kilda City has their own juggernauts; Ethan Whish-Wilson has kicked 12 goals in three games and vice captain Sebastian Harris-Knipe is stringing form together
Outside of an inaccurate first week where they kicked 10.20
St Kilda City has managed scores of 13.14 and 18.18
Depending on the result of Carrum Patterson Lakes
the winner could sit as the only side without a loss after four weeks
will play the only winless side in Lyndhurst at home
these sides played two severely contrasting battles
The first one at Lyndhurst was a nail-biting match
where not even the final siren could split the sides
Lyndhurst led by four points at every change until full time
A late Matthew Baxter goal tied things up for Carrum Patterson Lakes
In the final game of the home and away season
Carrum Patterson Lakes were clearly galvanised by their draw in the months prior
controlling the game for its entirety to end up winners by 117 points
Baxter was again vital with four goals and captain Alex Wilson matched him with four goals of his own
They will need to remain consistent if their side is to trudge ahead with a 4-0 record
South Mornington will play host to Heatherton at home
When they last saw each other the teams were located at different stages of the ladder inside the top three in a preliminary final showdown
where they kicked 3.14 and sent themselves holidaying for the year
South Mornington beat them 8.6 (54) to 3.14 (32) by the end
Jacob Rowler and Travis French (two goals)
These teams have struggled to put points on the board through three weeks
Heatherton’s highest total came in their win over Lyndhurst
kicking 8.11(59) whilst South Mornington’s weekly scores have been 5.4(34)
The defences for these sides have been handling themselves well
but this week will be about who finds offence first when needed
Hampton’s home ground will feel the footprints of opponents Ashwood on Saturday afternoon
Hampton is inside the top four with a respectable percentage (119.58) but are resolute in their approach of Saturday
With a three point and 16 point loss under their belt
they turned the tables last week to defeat Heatherton by 56 points
Madden Griffin’s responsibilities are always demanding
The spearhead has kicked nine goals through his three matches and is acutely aware he’ll receive the opponent’s best defender each week
Ashwood has experienced heaven and hell in rounds two and three
with a two point win and three point loss accordingly
Billy Findlay and Jacob Hattersley have created avenues to goal and will have to again this week if they are any chance to win
The latest match of the round will feature Black Rock and Skye
Shown up by 78 points against St Kilda City
Black Rock will have some fire in their belly against a side sitting above them on the ladder
A win this week could elevate them into top five territory
Star forward Aaron Cloke has 11 goals in three matches and will be up for the task while Jordie Gray has shown no signs of slowing down
Skye’s efforts against Carrum Patterson Lakes last week will give them unrivalled optimism as they travel to the beachside again
It is Skye’s third consecutive away game before they return to familiar grounds next week
It was recently reported that the City of Casey has removed and seized 250 signs since the election season began
now with the Casey Residents Ratepayers Association calling for a crackdown on their prominence
sent a letter to Star News on behalf of the organisation where he coined the electoral competition in Bruce as a “war of corflutes”
He highlighted the abundance of signage throughout the municipality
“have the candidates applied for permits?”
told The Age of the number of signs they had removed
and that photos were taken and infringements to follow where they deemed appropriate
CRRA’s Oates expressed concern with the signs’ proper authorisation
adding that it would be a “timely event and should be at the top of the list when the review of the Local Laws takes place”
“The CRRA also believes that if the council have to remove inappropriate campaign material
then the candidate must be made to pay for the costs of the removals
Corflutes and signs have been widespread in the electorate
with more than a handful having been defaced in the process
Liberal candidate Zahid Safi recently posted on his Facebook page expressing his disappointment with their vandalism
while incumbent Labor MP Julian Hill’s signs were also subject to the same treatment
and with a specific focus on the days coming post-election
Oates posed the question of how long the signage would linger throughout the city
and if limitations on their physical size is to be considered
and more information will follow once it becomes available
A day of solemn remembrance and commemoration
the Anzac Day service at Berwick High Street was filled with people from all walks of life
their hearts filled with gratitude and honour to those who served the country
the morning began at 10:40am with a march from the Berwick RSL to the cenotaph at High Street
two World War-era transport jeeps and three modern-era military utility vehicles accompanied and led the march
SES officers and a number of local schools
Their march continued well into High Street
with the autumn leaves blowing into the wind
and the rounds of applause echoing throughout the buildings
Rows of veterans took the seats in front of the cenotaph
as members of parliament and local councillors also attended the event
said that while he has been a regular attendee of Anzac Day services
He added that it was amazing to see “record crowds” in Berwick
and it is a fine example of the level of importance that the day signifies for the local people
“This is a very important occasion for our community
just shows the strength and importance of this day
“I think it’s vital that we recognise this day because it’s something that we need to treasure
and it’s important to our values as a country,” he said
this was soon followed by a prayer to honour those who gave their lives for the country
delivered a moving speech and addressed the significance of Anzac Day
touching on important coming days such as the 75th anniversary of the Korean War and the coming May 8 anniversary of the end of the European Theatre in World War 2
wreaths were then laid at the base of the cenotaph
then followed by relatives of veteran Bill Rogers
then local MPs such as Berwick MP Brad Battin
Bruce MP Julian Hill and Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas
Akoonah Ward Councillor Scott Dowling and Deputy Mayor Melinda Ambrose were also present
Battin spoke on the significance that a strong community spirit means for a day like Anzac Day
where he said that “every year I come to Berwick
“It’s just amazing to see everyone getting behind the one message
which is simply about how proud we are of Australia
and how we have to thank those who gave that to us,” he said
Phillips once more took the stage and recited the ode to the fallen
followed soon after by a sombre Last Post and a minute of silence
behind the flags that flapped in the dappled sunlight
dressed in Anzac uniforms and carrying with them Lee Enfield rifles that fired three blank volleys into the air after the silence
Bruce MP Julian Hill said that there is an incredible importance that the message of Anzac “gets passed from generation to generation”
“As we see here in community-based services like this right around the country as well
it’s about respecting and honouring the service of those who paid the ultimate sacrifice and gave their lives
“But it’s also those men and women who’ve worn our nation’s uniforms
be it in times of conflict or in peacekeeping missions around the world,” he said
said that one of the best things he has seen throughout the years has been the kids
both the Australian and New Zealand national anthems were played and sung by the crowd
the service came to a close at 11:30am sharp
from the veterans to attending MPs and councillors
returning to the RSL for food and refreshments
theft and assault at 6:40am in Berwick is currently being investigated by the Southern Metro Crime Team officers
began when it was alleged that a 42-year-old man was about to leave the gym on Lyall Road when he noticed his car keys were missing from his pigeonhole near the exit
The victim approached an unknown male who was leaving the gym at the same time and asked him if he had accidentally taken the wrong keys
The unknown male opened his bag to show the victim that he did not have the keys and entered a white vehicle that contained two females and a male
The group then began to yell at the victim
who called Triple Zero as the vehicle fled south on Wheelers Street
made demands for his property and assaulted the victim before he managed to flee on foot
It is believed that the offenders then stole the victim’s Mitsubishi Outlander with the keys
The 42-year-old man was taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries
or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online via crimestoppers.com.au
Early voting for the federal election will begin next week
providing an easy opportunity for many to miss the line on election day
early voting will begin on Tuesday 22 April and run until Friday 2 May
centres will be open from 8.30 am – 5.30 pm
centres will be open from 9am – 4pm and from 8.30 am – 6pm on Friday 2 May
ABC’s Q+A panel show is set to gauge the federal election mood in Bruce and other crucial neighbouring seats next year
Locals are invited to join the live audience at Beaconhills College – Berwick Campus on Monday
Joining host Patricia Karvelas will be Housing and Homelessness Minister and Hotham MP Clare O’Neil and opposition housing and homelessness
NDIS and social services spokesperson Michael Sukkar
The rest of the panel is yet to be confirmed
Audience arrival time is 6pm for a 7pm ‘as live’ record
register at abc.net.au/qanda/studio-audience
The show will be in touch with more details if you successfully secure a seat
Police are investigating a burglary at a business in Berwick on Wednesday
It is believed that the offender/s have smashed the front of the High Street building
All offenders were gone when police arrived at the scene
showing a smashed entrance of the building
as well as a yellow stopping bollard that had been uprooted
dashcam footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
and more information will be added once available
A 25-year-old man has been charged by Casey Crime Investigation Unit detectives following the alleged carjacking and hit-and-run at a Berwick hospital yesterday morning
was charged with several offences including theft of a motor vehicle
reckless conduct endangering life and failing to render assistance
These charges follow an alleged incident where a woman was accompanying her husband from their Ford Territory to a hospital entrance on Kangan Drive around 11:20am on Wednesday
The suspect allegedly got into the vehicle
then struck the woman as she attempted to stop him from driving away
The 66-year-old woman was transported to another hospital
A Monash Health spokesperson said that the incident that occurred outside of Casey Hospital
“Our hearts are with the victim and her loved ones during this incredibly difficult time
and we wish her strength and a swift recovery
“Monash Health continues to support Victoria Police
Detectives arrested the 25-year-old in Pioneer Bay yesterday afternoon
He has since been remanded to appear at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court later today
Berwick’s Beaconhills College was the setting on Monday for the filming of a politically charged election special of ABC’s Q+A
In an auditorium packed with local residents from Berwick and the surrounding areas
panellists were faced with a number of the struggles currently facing Australians
From a renter facing the prospect of never being able to enter the property market
a homeowner struggling with multiple jobs to pay the mortgage
a pensioner lamenting that increases to their pension are failing to keep up with the cost of living
and a small business owner stressing over the strains of staying afloat
The show’s panel consisted of the Minister for Housing and Homelessness Clare O’Neil
Melbourne Deputy Lord Mayor Roshena Campbell
and Executive Director for the Australia Institute Richard Denniss
O’Neil and Sukkar were eager to emphasise the newly announced housing policies of their parties
both focused on opening up the housing market to prospective first home buyers
Panellists faced a widespread lack of faith that either party would be able to effectively combat the effects of the housing crisis
One audience member stated to O’Neil and Sukkar that “billions and billions of dollars are being invested in fixing a housing crisis that I think most Australians probably agree neither of you are going to actually fix”
the majority of the audience indicated that they agreed
audience members voiced concern over low wage growth amidst the cost of living crisis
with one member of the audience noting that while his costs for essentials like insurance had increased by over 30 per cent since the last election
his wages had only increased by seven per cent
“It doesn’t take a mathematical genius or an economist to see that I’ve gone backwards in real terms.”
Another hotly contested issue was government spending
with Sukkar claiming that Labor is heavily overspending
while Richard Deniss suggested that budgetary woes could be alleviated by increasing taxes on the mining
Monday’s show displays just how important the issues of cost of living
wage growth and housing affordability are to local residents in the 2025 election
Country Fire Authority personnel attended a fire truck engulfed in flames at Berwick this morning
Crews arrived around 7:16am to find the truck full of rubbish aflame
with three CFA vehicles responding to the incident from the Berwick and Beaconsfield brigades
Victoria Police were also on he scene for traffic control
and the Environmental Protection Agency was also notified
The incident was declared under control at 7:34am and safe at 8:12am
The multi-horse race in the seat of Monash is too close to call with the electorate split between the major […]
Police are investigating an armed robbery in Berwick that occurred on Saturday
where it is believed three unknown offenders entered a store on Bemersyde Drive around 4:45pm
Officers believe that the trio arrived in a stolen sedan
the offenders made demands for money and cigarettes before fleeing the scene in the stolen vehicle
The store attendant was not physically injured
Investigators believe that the sedan was stolen from a Dandenong address last week
Security camera vision was posted on the Facebook page
A minute-long video showed one offender rummaging through the rear of the shop while the other two transported contents in a box to the boot of the stolen sedan
depicting another incident where two offenders similarly burgled the store before fleeing in a red sedan
the offenders were masked and dressed in black
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
when the country will decide who will lead them for the next three […]
Voters in Berwick told Star News when they attended the polls that Liberal is the way to go
Star News attended multiple venues throughout Casey and Dandenong on Tuesday
the majority of the voters who were willing to share their views were voting for Liberal
all echoing a similar sentiment of theirs and the people’s weariness of Labor’s “inaction and overspending”
Denise said that she was for the Liberals since she “wants cheap petrol and cheap electricity”
“I believe that Albanese’s campaign has been based on lies.”
and since there was no standing MP to critique for Bruce
there were some unkept promises from Jason Wood
as well as the fact that “he lives in Mount Dandenong”
the other thing is he promised to build a 500-space car park in Officer Station
“He just blamed the Labor party and that’s it
Wood has previously promised $15 million for car parks in the same Officer Station
as part of the broader 2019 Morrison government’s $300 million commitment for enhancing station parking areas
Other voters weren’t as convinced with the current Labor party
with elderly couple Carol and Phil saying that they’re both “sick of Labor”
many of our friends don’t want to be here anymore
and we live in a retirement community,” Carol said
and then there’s the mental health challenges that we’re – and our kids – are facing.”
The public’s voice for the Liberals didn’t falter
with another couple saying that they were “sick and tired” of Labor’s “broken promises and overspending”
“There are no consequences for their actions
because everything’s going backwards right now.”
have opted to cast their vote to the Libertarians
highlighting their appreciation of the party’s push for “less government intervention in everyday life”
“I’m kind of sick of both the major parties
so we think the Libertarians are a good in-between,” they said
Jacob believed that the Liberals were the right choice
and that their policies were going to “do a better job for the economy”
and you’ll probably end up with $500,000 a house
or even $200,000 in the long run after 10 years,” he said
has been at the Akoonah Park voting centre since 8am in the morning
handing out flyers and speaking to residents about the upcoming election
The line for the centre also stretched as far out as the parking lot
with $600 billion of risky nuclear reactors
and policies that would push up the cost of housing,” Hill started
to invest in Medicare and build Australia’s future – don’t risk Dutton.”
Hill has been a staunch supporter of the Future Made in Australia Bill
in response to the City of Casey’s 2025-26 commonwealth pre-budget submission of its importance in bolstering a net zero transformation
mental health and infrastructure for Casey
Harkaway and half of Cranbourne North had only recently been added to his current electorate
The official Liberal voice in Berwick was silent
with the party’s volunteers telling Star that Zahid Safi was making his rounds in Dandenong for the first day
and more will be added once information becomes available
Pakenham resident Arthur Walker has survived more than most could imagine
Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time
A man has been charged after a 66-year-old woman was struck with her own vehicle outside a hospital in Melbourne’s south-east
was dropping her husband off at Casey Hospital’s emergency department in Berwick about 10.45am on Wednesday
The scene outside Casey Hospital on Wednesday.Credit: Facebook
who had allegedly just left the hospital and was sitting on a bench
who was walking to the hospital entrance with her husband
saw the man driving their car away and was trying to stop him when he hit her with the vehicle
Paramedics transferred her from Casey Hospital to The Alfred in a critical condition
She was in a serious but stable condition as of Wednesday evening
unlicensed driving and failing to render assistance
He was remanded in custody to appear at Dandenong Magistrate’s Court on Thursday
Officers also recovered the couple’s brown Ford Territory nearby
Casey Hospital was helping police in their investigation
Police urged anyone who witnessed the incident
Our Breaking News Alert will notify you of significant breaking news when it happens. Get it here
A man has been charged after a 66-year-old woman was struck with her own vehicle outside a hospital in Melbourne\\u2019s south-east
was dropping her husband off at Casey Hospital\\u2019s emergency department in Berwick about 10.45am on Wednesday
He was remanded in custody to appear at Dandenong Magistrate\\u2019s Court on Thursday
Officers also recovered the couple\\u2019s brown Ford Territory nearby
Our Breaking News Alert will notify you of significant breaking news when it happens
Not even a week has passed since the start of the federal election campaign and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has paid a visit to Berwick in what is predicted to be a battleground seat
Dutton joined his colleague Jason Wood MP and Liberal candidate for Bruce Zahid Safi on Tuesday 1 April at the Berwick RSL
The rise in crime in the South East of Melbourne was a key focus as the gathering provided an opportunity for victims of crime to share their experiences and the challenges they face
This marked the first visit in the campaign by Dutton to the region
Dutton emphasised his lifelong passion for ensuring better outcomes
particularly for children’s safety and supporting those in need
“I think it’s incredibly important that we come together to try and hear some of the experiences,“ he said
has been assaulted and robbed countless times in the last nine months
“I slept in my store until six months after the last robbery
I would go in after midnight and leave at six o’clock in the morning
“There’s something wrong with society today for all this to happen
is one of the spots the Coalition hopes to pick up in their bid to return to office under Dutton
A recent redistribution put most of Berwick in Bruce
formerly within the boundaries of Wood’s La Trobe
The redistribution brought Hill’s margin from 6.6 per cent down to 5.3 per cent
This area of Berwick voted predominantly Liberal last election and the Coalition would wish to retain that in the event of a hoped-for swing overall that could defeat Hill
with a $240,000 investment from the State Government
This development is part of a much larger initiative of $4.9 million for 26 new and upgraded dog parks throughout the state in the New and Upgraded Dog Parks Program
said that they are ensuring that Victorians
The design of the parks will follow community consultation and will feature things that include designated play areas
The City of Casey held a consultation period in 2024 that ended in September
with a project budget of $214,500 allocated from the council’s Capital Works Program
It was highlighted that there was an opportunity for the council to apply for a grant through the Department for Energy Environment and Climate Action (DEECA)
with the release confirming the application’s success
Casey’s community engagement summary report stated that if the council were to be awarded the funding
construction would commence mid-2025 for completion by June of this year
“These dog parks cater for all kinds of pooches
there is something for every dog and its owner,” Dimopoulos said
These projects are part of the State’s $20.8 million investment to build new and upgraded dog parks
and in fringes such as Mildura and Portland
you’ll be familiar with the tranquility that washes over you as you step inside the urban oasis
It’s not hard to imagine that speaking with founder Freya Berwick
despite her busy schedule across both business and family
radiates a similar energy of pure clarity and calm.
How her palpably clear energy scoops you up and draws you in
reflects an incredibly assured sense of self
We laughed a lot about how this turn of phrase peppered itself into our chat in both namesake and personal contexts throughout this interview
we traced why and how Berwick decided to build this “anti wellness bullshit,” contemporary haven of bliss in Melbourne’s trendy inner north
and where she plans to take the business next
This interview led me to believe that the energy Berwick possesses is inextricably linked to the ethereal calm that Sense of Self emits
And after this chat with this undeniably successful and self-assured founder
Berwick was inspired to launch Sense of Self (SOS) partly by her international travels to countries wherein communal bathing and sauna use is a cultural mainstay.
She explains that the embedded culture of bathing as a wellness tool overseas differed greatly to that of metropolitan Melbourne
this wasn’t merely the opening of your average day spa
but rather marked an introduction of an entirely new category to market
“I’ve spent a lot of time in different bath houses and spas in different parts of the world
and I think the key difference in places that have established bathing culture is exactly that – it’s a part of the culture,” she says
She believes the uniting thread between unique bathing cultures in places like Rome
is their adoption of ‘third spaces.’
yet aren’t actively built to be inherently social
aren’t commonplace in Australia.
Bewrick was careful in how she wanted to respectfully bring over the unique practices and rituals she’d experienced within these other bathing cultures; while developing a new array of offerings tailored to the people of Melbourne
“It’s probably not quite right to just bring [for example]
Japanese bathing to Australia,” she explains
“I thought the most appropriate thing to do was to interpret the juicy
meaningful parts of all of these places and these experiences
and [find] what can be done in Melbourne in an authentic way
so that is not appropriation and is its own thing.”
it was Berwick’s transformative relationship between nature and her journey to body acceptance – something honed during three years spent living in Norway – that called her to eventually create Sense Of Self
“Scandinavia has this really interesting intersection between their wellness and nature
which for me was probably the biggest lesson,” she shares
“I spent a lot of time running and getting really hot
or using the sauna in the hotel where I worked
and then diving into freezing bodies of water which I really loved.”
physical experiences helped Berwick overcome what she describes to be “a pretty fraught relationship with food and [her] body” in her twenties
“I really [learned] a hard lesson in body trust
outsourcing your self worth and your self love based on what someone might value in you
and that understanding the foundation of all of your relationships with people
comes from the strength of your relationship with yourself,” she says
“So my pathway into communal bathing was not so much that I spent all this time in bath houses
It was understanding the importance of your self connection
in this day and age with social media and pace of life.”
So what is it about communal bathing that helps Berwick drop into that deep and imperative connection to self?
it’s all about the humanising perspective an experience such as bathing at SOS can provide
you’re at once completely different from the person wading or sitting next to you
but a kinship can be drawn through the shared act of intentional being
and you realise that you’re one among many,” Freya says
and you don’t have to present in any way
It’s the same as walking along the river on a Saturday morning
There’s just other people going about their lives.
“Bathing is really unique because of the disrobing part of it
and you’re also doing these things that gently push
but it’s your body in space and in elements
Spaces like SOS strike a unique balance of being both public and communal in nature.
gently pushing your body through resistance and sharing space together with other beings is a joint sense of belonging
This concoction of positive feelings was the motivation that ultimately drove Berwick to allow Melbournians to access through opening SOS.
which intentionally chooses the non-prescriptive approach of steering away from labelling itself exclusively as a ‘day spa’ or a ‘recovery centre’ – ensuring all kinds of users are granted free reign to enjoy the many functions of the space and define the experience for themselves
“We really genuinely see a really diverse mix of people come through the doors as a consequence of that
which is the intention and is a truer reflection of the community
and what you want a space like this to be,” she says
Berrwick took a mixed bag approach to raising capital for SOS
She drew from what she knew about the range of different ways to start a business she was familiar with and jammed them together to fund her idea for an all-new bathhouse and spa hybrid in Melbourne
and then putting in our own money,” she explains
“It was about $2 million and we just scraped it all together
And it wasn’t like we could raise a pool of capital to roll out three
Berwick shares that one of the greater challenges of this process
was proving to investors and her potential market that a brick and mortar business like SOS would indeed pay off.
[because] you can’t prove it until you’ve spent all the money,” she says
“It’s not like a piece of technology that you start to test
So we just needed to find people that understood that – and communicating what Sense Of Self is before it existed and before there was a bathing market was super hard… it still remains hard
because you have to experience it to really feel it.”
Berwick explains that the architectural design choices of SOS were imperative in building and communicating what the space would offer
Her intentional use of Mediterranean-inspired colour palettes in combination with large
brutalist structures is a physical manifestation of SOS’s ethos
“We want to hold people and make them feel really safe
but we want to challenge them at the same time,” she says
“And so that’s where I basically mashed together Mediterranean and brutalism in that Mediterranean has this softness
demanding type of space with monolithic forms
That’s kind of the balance that we try to seek.”
Works to bring SOS to Sydney are well underway
but prioritizing where to open each SOS venue is a time consuming
yet crucial part of Berwick’s business model.
“I’s taken us years to find the building that we want
but I care a lot about the spaces that we occupy
She tells me about the “kooky” non-negotiable for every SOS bathhouse: no new developments
“Building in existing buildings is an important thing for me
and then you respond to that in your design
You don’t just like put something that doesn’t fit,” she explains
“I think there’s really something to be said about something being there for a while
I just see these businesses in new developments
and they’re like Tumbleweed type territory
As she looks to open SOS’s first Sydney site
a mammoth project that will open in late 2025
Berwick reflects on the self trust required to build
And you can’t do that in a consistent way if you don’t believe you,” she advises
“That’s what the journey has been for me as a founder at least… you can’t rely on other people to tell you that you’re right
because that’s a very wobbly foundation.
You’re going to have customers that don’t like you
you’re going to have staff to tell you you’re doing a bad job
you’re gonna have investors that might say that you should do it like this
And if you are just swaying with all of those [opinions] and chasing those tangents
you’re not doing the thing that you’re supposed to be doing.”
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Missing Perspectives acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land
present and emerging and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people today
We acknowledge that land in Australia was never ceded and always was
Emma Hackett Design
The renaming of a local reserve in honour of Victoria’s Sikh community has been met with strong opposition by residents
as Berwick Springs Lake faces its second hurdle of identity
Berwick Springs Lake was renamed in honour of Guru Nanak Dev Ji
was the first Guru and founder of the Sikh faith
announced on Saturday $600,000 in funding for Langar celebration events across Victoria
as well as Berwick Springs Lake’s change of name
“I’m delighted to be recognising the significant contributions of our Sikh community in Victoria by naming a landmark after the founder of the Sikh faith
Criticisms from the local residents have been strong
with a petition to change the name amassing roughly 700 signatures as of Tuesday 12 November
The main sentiment revolves around consultation
with the locals stating that there has been no word or notice that this change was to go through
This renaming is part of the State Government’s Name a Place campaign
which sees public input of over 6000 new places over the next three years for naming
and Star News is endeavouring to gather information and comments from all parties involved as soon as possible
Discussion on the housing crisis and the cost-of-living pressures hit Berwick’s streets once more
this time with Parliament’s officials and experts weighing in on it
Australian Broadcasting Corporation’s weekly Q+A segment was held in Beaconhills College
where over a hundred residents packed into the school’s theatre to watch the show come to life
Leading the panel was ABC’s and the show’s long-time host
accompanied by key speakers: Labor’s housing minister Clare O’Neil and the Coalition’s Michael Sukkar
They were also joined by independent MP Zalia Steggal
Melbourne’s lord deputy mayor Roshena Campbell and Australia Institute executive director Richard Denniss
Karvelas said that when it comes to facilitating an even platform for political debates
hard work and confidence to back yourself”
don’t think of it as a performance physically or in language
“I’m confident because I’m across the issues
I’m comfortable because I know so much,” she said
As both major parties commit policies on different platforms
it has become much easier for all forms of information
and that broadcasters such as herself are “obligated to only talking facts”
but owning it very quickly and also just fact-checking everything – if one person tells you something
the panel’s discussion went for just over an hour
with key audience members already hand-picked with crucial questions about the aforementioned topics
made their way from other parts of Melbourne to state their case
Facilitating a balanced debate that hinged on timing
Karvelas allowed both O’Neil and Sukkar to trade verbal blows but have ample time for independent and expert views to even the playing field
from Labor’s 5 per cent deposit on new homes to the Liberals’ super-backed incentive
Denniss called for bigger taxes on large corporations
while Campbell provided boots-on-the-ground insight to resident impacts
“You have to be sometimes cruel to be kind
you have to be prepared to interrupt and stop people if you think that not everyone’s getting an equal say
“You have to be prepared to challenge people; but fairness and making sure that the democratic project of everyone having their say and voters have the right to hear them has to be at the centre.”
She said that a lot of thinking happens while words are being spoken
is this a reflection of where the debate is
Berwick is a top destination for every Easter weekend with the fair returning once again to delight families
The popular family-friendly event is held annually over the Easter long weekend at Akoonah Park
This year attracted thousands of visitors who enjoyed the kids’ Easter egg hunt
The Berwick Easter Festival was an official Good Friday Appeal event with donations collected for the Royal Children’s Hospital.
The renaming of a local reserve in honour of Victoria’s Sikh community has been met with strong backlash from local residents and high praise from the Sikh community
what was then the Berwick Springs Wetland Reserve was renamed to Guru Nanak Lake
the first Guru and founder of the Sikh faith
Sikh Victorians and the broader community can celebrate
commemorate and learn more about this important figure and Langar.”
Local residents have criticised the change
with the main sentiment being that they say no one in the area was consulted prior to changing the name
A petition started by resident Aldonio Ferreira has quickly gained traction
amassing roughly 1700 votes by Wednesday 13 November
also a resident and frequent goer of the Lake Walk
“Obviously this has been done without any local community consultation and the residents are frustrated
the lake is called Berwick Springs and the local area derives its name from the lake,” he said
“What’s happening here is they’re taking away the Berwick Springs name
and the key part is no one in this area knew about it outside of the Indigenous community and the Sikh community.”
Berwick Springs Lake is not a formally recognised name under Geographic Names Victoria
making ‘Berwick Springs Wetland Reserve’ – or lake – essentially serve as an ‘interim’ name for the area
The change has been more than welcome to members of the Sikh community however
a renowned musical figure in the global Sikh community who has lived in Australia for over 45 years and a Casey resident
saying that he is “tremendously proud of the change”
“I think the fact that authorities actually thought about acknowledging us [Sikhs] in that way is absolutely wonderful
after 40 years of Indigenous voting rights
come around to naming some places in Australia Indigenous names – that too has faced a lot of opposition
the opposition is there but I hope that in time it will get smoothed over,” he said
Dya emphasised the importance of cultural cohesion
and how there have always been problems when it comes to movements towards unity in diversity
but more so the legislation behind the change
taking into account a previous VCAT case in 2016 when the construction of a roundabout in Greaves Road would impact the estate’s entrance
“There is no quarrel to be had with anyone here
it wouldn’t matter if it was called Pope Francis Lake
but if they did that without consulting anyone
we’re a multicultural community and it’s not about that
“The process has denied anyone that lives in this area the ability to comment or make any feedback
According to the the State Government’s release
the renaming followed consultation with key Sikh community leaders and traditional owners of the land
to celebrate Victoria’s Sikh community and their contributions to the state
Sonya Kilkenny said that “this renaming is another way we’re ensuring Victoria’s place names better reflect and celebrate our state’s rich diversity and history”
The decision to rename a landmark was an election promise by former Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews
he stated that anything from a “street name” would be marked in celebration of the then
this naming is not part of the Name a Place campaign
which looks to name 6000 new places in Victoria
Consultation with the Victorian Sikh community was widespread in 2023
acknowledging the year-long process of local discussions
and I believe that in the last couple of years
the Sikh community has done a lot of social good and work within Victoria
“This kind of recognition that we really appreciate
because it’s not just named after the founder of the religion
but is also a message of good for the people
“The message of Guru Nanak Dev Ji is of love
so I don’t actually know what the reason is for the backlash because I think it’s one of the purest messages that could be provided,” Jaswinder said
Under the Official Naming Rules for Places in Victoria 2022
the minimum requirement is that the naming authority must “contact the immediate community in writing… or notify the community by any other means deemed appropriate”
which refers to the people and locality who live and work within the area
who have lived in Berwick Springs for over 30 years
they resonate with Michael’s point of view
but many other residents felt sidelined when the announcement came around
Greg said that “none in the community knew it was happening”
“We found out when we went for our walk that there’s this sign that’s been erected by the State Government saying that the name’s been changed
“There’s a complete surprise in the local community
there’s been no consultation; and both Casey and Cardinia are building new facilities every year
why not name those instead of renaming an existing one?”
The couple highlighted the importance of the new name’s relevance to the local area
which they said would resonate more with the residents
Amanda Cunningham from Berwick Springs Parkrun said that she and many
running group members were also in the dark about the naming
literally no one knew about this until after it all happened,” she said
Southeast Metropolitan MP Ann-Marie Hermans regards the change with the same sentiment
holding a staunch opposition to the renaming
“The decision to rename any local landmark should be inclusive for all members of the community,” she said
“People live in integrated harmony throughout the southeast and this decision can be divisive; the decision currently upsetting various first and second-generation local groups who live in the Berwick Springs area.”
The subject of the naming being ‘divisive’ has been rife with the local residents
is home to many multicultural people and faiths
Dya coined this change as akin to the Gurdwara Siri Guru Nanak Darbar temple in Officer
which was met with a similar resistance and backlash from local farmers
but has since been a welcome addition to the community
there is always vehement opposition towards it,” he said
“We are a community without a country of our own
when I went to a cricket match and someone called me an Indian
I’m not; I was born in Malaysia and today I am a proud Australian
“I understand that if it had been an Indigenous name
but a lot of places are being named after Indigenous people and places now
“For them to actually acknowledge a minority like us who punches way above its weight when it comes to service in the community
Victoria is home to the largest Sikh community in Australia with over 91,000 Sikh Victorians
I travelled down the Princes Highway through what used to be a series of distinct small towns
There was Hallam with its magnificent Hallam Hotel
The village of Beaconsfield led into Officer along the highway and
where every sign seemed to lead to the racecourse
Berwick has always had the feel of a town that knows its place in the world
Its centre is a solid grid built around a steep main street with various 19th-century buildings
I moved here with my husband-to-be so we could be closer to work
Our new house was small and had internal walls that were painted purple
But a real estate agent friend assured us that it was in a good location
sitting on a traditional quarter-acre block in Berwick’s original grid
What was once the country town of Berwick (Berr-ick, not Burr-wick) has become incorporated into greater Melbourne. The former farming areas surrounding the township have been redeveloped into a sprawl of suburbs. At the 2021 census, the population of Berwick passed 50,000 (and it hasn’t peaked yet), making it one of Australia’s biggest suburbs by population
Instead of being split into new smaller suburbs
what is apparently a well-regarded name has been kept as it pushed up against the edge of Clyde North and snowballed into a kind of super-suburb
I found the “letters to the editor” section of the local paper a source of entertainment as lifelong residents protested against every change
small-town joys such as nearby horse paddocks
the airfield and a swimming club on the Cardinia Creek were lost
but the Bush Nursing Hospital (now the ever-growing Casey Hospital) remains the birthplace of most local children
Traffic improved for a while when the Princes Freeway bypass was built – when entering the town centre
you could once expect to be stuck behind a truck blowing dirty smoke
grinding its way up the steep Berwick hill
But with the growth of Melbourne’s south-eastern edge
I don’t think there is a day when the Monash flows freely in peak hour
What used to be a 20-minute trip to nearby Cranbourne regularly takes twice as long nowadays
The country town feel of Berwick’s centre still survives
even though High Street’s grassy median – with its mature trees and garden beds – is now more a car park than park
which started in 1866 as a mechanics’ institute library
is still run almost entirely by volunteers
The war memorial stands proudly at the end of the strip
and the Anzac Day ceremony seems to get bigger every year
Among the flower beds stands a sculpture of Edwin Flack
Australia’s only competitor in the 1896 Athens Olympics
who won two gold medals before returning to his home town to raise cattle
Berwick always saw itself as self-contained and perhaps a little better than its neighbouring towns
I once asked the old bloke who lived in my street all his life why he didn’t attend the nearby Beaconsfield Primary School in the 1930s
he told me: “Berwick children never crossed the Cardinia Creek to go to that school – it wasn’t Berwick.”
Some of the attractions we now enjoy are due to the generosity of these older families
The magnificent Wilson Botanic Park was developed on an old quarry given to the council for a park
when Berwick Primary relocated to a larger site in a new housing estate
the old school site was bought by the council
with contributions from notable Berwick residents
and transformed into a graceful park and cafe
this park is as busy – and beautiful – as many in Melbourne’s centre
The annual Berwick agricultural show is still run by a volunteer committee that works incredibly hard to keep it going
The early residents who chose the site of the showgrounds would never have imagined their town would come to surround it
the showground is increasingly taken over by cultural events such the annual Diwali event
it was hired for a children’s fair – complete with camels that stood in the park each evening after the event was closed
Berwick continues to be the focus of the region
And nothing reflects the growth more than the new
Berwick is still a place that provides for many needs of its residents without them needing to go too far from home – just the way I imagine the residents of old liked it
Clancy Briggs is a former town and community planner who now works in community health
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Once upon a time, my suburb was a country town. The first time I visited it, on a childhood trip to Gippsland, I travelled down the Princes Highway through what used to be a series of distinct small towns.
There was Hallam with its magnificent Hallam Hotel, and Narre Warren, before the Fountain Gate shopping centre. The village of Beaconsfield led into Officer along the highway and, finally, Pakenham, where every sign seemed to lead to the racecourse. But it was Berwick that stood out.
Berwick has always had the feel of a town that knows its place in the world. Its centre is a solid grid built around a steep main street with various 19th-century buildings.
Two decades later, I moved here with my husband-to-be so we could be closer to work. Our new house was small and had internal walls that were painted purple, rotten floorboards and no heating. But a real estate agent friend assured us that it was in a good location, sitting on a traditional quarter-acre block in Berwick\\u2019s original grid. Turns out he was right.
What was once the country town of Berwick (Berr-ick, not Burr-wick) has become incorporated into greater Melbourne. The former farming areas surrounding the township have been redeveloped into a sprawl of suburbs. At the 2021 census, the population of Berwick passed 50,000 (and it hasn\\u2019t peaked yet), making it one of Australia\\u2019s .
Instead of being split into new smaller suburbs, as you would expect, what is apparently a well-regarded name has been kept as it pushed up against the edge of Clyde North and snowballed into a kind of super-suburb.
As a new resident of Berwick, I found the \\u201Cletters to the editor\\u201D section of the local paper a source of entertainment as lifelong residents protested against every change. Over time, small-town joys such as nearby horse paddocks, the airfield and a swimming club on the Cardinia Creek were lost, but the Bush Nursing Hospital (now the ever-growing Casey Hospital) remains the birthplace of most local children.
Traffic improved for a while when the Princes Freeway bypass was built \\u2013 when entering the town centre, you could once expect to be stuck behind a truck blowing dirty smoke, grinding its way up the steep Berwick hill. But with the growth of Melbourne\\u2019s south-eastern edge, those traffic problems have returned. I don\\u2019t think there is a day when the Monash flows freely in peak hour. What used to be a 20-minute trip to nearby Cranbourne regularly takes twice as long nowadays.
Berwick always saw itself as self-contained and perhaps a little better than its neighbouring towns. I once asked the old bloke who lived in my street all his life why he didn\\u2019t attend the nearby Beaconsfield Primary School in the 1930s. With a sharp intake of breath, he told me: \\u201CBerwick children never crossed the Cardinia Creek to go to that school \\u2013 it wasn\\u2019t Berwick.\\u201D
With its university campus, major hospitals and TAFE, Berwick continues to be the focus of the region. And nothing reflects the growth more than the new, giant, multi-level railway station car park.
In a way, as in the past, Berwick is still a place that provides for many needs of its residents without them needing to go too far from home \\u2013 just the way I imagine the residents of old liked it.
Clancy Briggs is a former town and community planner who now works in community health.
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Police have arrested a 16-year-old boy following an alleged aggravated burglary and the theft of a car in Berwick overnight.
Officers spotted an allegedly stolen grey Mercedes Sedan travelling on the Princess Highway in Narre Warren about 3.35am.
The vehicle was seen allegedly travelling at speeds of up to 200km/hr.
Police kept eyes on the Mercedes as it allegedly travelled throughout Berwick and then inbound on the Princess Freeway, once again reaching speeds of up to 200km/hr.
It is alleged that the Mercedes narrowly missed colliding with another vehicle on Wheelers Park Drive.
Officers successfully deployed a tyre deflation device on Clyde Road.
The vehicle allegedly continued driving on to the Monash Freeway before it was dumped near the Stud Road exit in Dandenong North.
It's alleged that the driver of the Mercedes fled on foot.
With the assistance of a K9 unit, police arrested a teen in a nearby reserve.
A 16-year-old boy from the Casey area will be interviewed by police.
Investigators allege that the Mercedes was stolen from a Coachella Way property in Berwick overnight.
Anyone who witnessed the incident, has dashcam/CCTV footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
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The attendance of what has been confirmed to be neo-nazis at the community-wide gathering at a local lake has sparked concerns, spelling a bad omen for what was initially a consultation issue.
Guru Nanak Lake, which previously held the name of Berwick Springs Lake, attracted a crowd of over 600 people on the night of Tuesday 19 November, where one of the organisers of the petition to repeal the renaming, Michael Ball, spoke on the lack of consultation and the appropriateness of the new name.
He was accompanied by other speakers such as Berwick MP Brad Battin and Southeastern Metropolitan MP Ann-Marie Hermans, as well as local resident Monique Davis whose family had lived in the estate since 1972.
However, confirmed by The Age, members of a known neo-nazi group were also present, with their leader Thomas Sewell as well as Joel Davis among the fray.
These men had communicated no prior information with Ball or co-organiser Aldonio Ferreira and neither with either of the MPs.
Ball, regarding their presence in the crowd, said that he “didn’t think much of it”.
“They weren’t invited, not by Brad’s team and they certainly weren’t invited by me.
“Nobody knew they were there, and they didn’t have any impact on what we were talking about.
“I don’t think they have an influence on the campaign whatsoever, [they’re] completely irrelevant.”
Ball highlighted that the area around the lake is a public space, and that “it’s not my place to say who can or can’t visit”.
He added that the campaign and the petition have “nothing to do with them” and that the locale’s message remains very clear.
The men, who were clad in black and bore a similar logo to that of the neo-nazi group European Australia Movement (EAM), were gathered at the back of the crowd with a camera in tow for the duration of the speeches.
They were observed taking photos of the event, as well as positioning for a group photo near the edges of the lake after the meeting was over and as the crowd dispersed.
An Opposition spokesperson stated that “upon becoming aware of these individuals, Victoria Police were immediately alerted and Liberal MPs in attendance left the event”.
Sewell, a New Zealand-born Australian and far-right activist founded the National Socialist Network in early 2021, where he merged it with other groups such as the Lads Society and the Antipodean Resistance.
He too heads the EAM, which was established in 2021 and, in January of that year, he and other EAM members – a total of 38 – were photographed performing the Nazi salute and chanting racist slogans next to Lake Bellfield near the Grampians in western Victoria over the Australia Day weekend.
In May that year, Sewell also assaulted a black security guard prior to a Nine Network program that was about to broadcast a report on the NSN; he was charged by VicPol’s Counter Terrorism Command with affray, recklessly causing injury and unlawful assault.
The men made little to no contact with the local residents and kept mostly to themselves.
Two VicPol officers were observed at the scene and remained until the men left.
A 16-year-old boy from the Casey area has been arrested by police following an alleged aggravated burglary and the theft of a car in Berwick overnight.
Officers spotted an allegedly stolen grey Mercedes sedan travelling on the Princes Highway in Narre Warren around 3:35am on Thursday 13 February.
It was seen to allegedly have been travelling at speeds of up to 200 kilometres per hour.
Police kept watch on the Mercedes as it allegedly travelled throughout Berwick and then inbound on the Princes Freeway, once again reaching speeds of up to 200km/hr.
It was claimed that the Mercedes narrowly collided with another vehicle on Wheelers Park Drive.
Officers then successfully deployed a tyre deflation device on Clyde Road, however, the vehicle allegedly continued driving to the Monash Freeway before it was dumped near the Stud Road exit in Dandenong North.
It is alleged that the driver of the vehicle fled on foot afterwards, but with the assistance of the K9 unit, police arrested the teen in a nearby reserve.
Investigators believe the Mercedes was stolen overnight from a Coachella Way property in Berwick.
This investigation remains ongoing, and anyone who witnessed the incident, has dashcam and/or CCTV footage or additional information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000, or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au/
Roughly 500 residents gathered outside Guru Nanak Lake, formerly Berwick Springs Lake, on Sunday, 23 March, in a silent gathering in protest of the lack of consultation.
The gathering, led by Michael Ball and the Berwick Springs Community group, highlighted similar key points from the previous one in November 2024, this time however, with a new initiative to garner 2000 signatures for a 30-minute parliamentary debate.
Ball, who spoke to Star News after the gathering, said that the reception was “great”, and that it “identifies the community support and the fact that so many are upset about what’s happened”.
“That’s what we’re seeing here today, communities coming out in support, they don’t agree, and regardless of who they are or where they come from, they just want to be consulted,” he said.
Multiple details were revealed during the meeting following a series of Freedom Of Information requests made by Ball, and other members of the group.
Documents shared by Ball to Star News obtained by this FOI request show correspondence between The City of Casey and other relevant bodies regarding the naming of the lake, which include Geographic Names Victoria (GNV) and the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing (DFFH).
The gathering began at 4:30pm sharp, with Michael touching on the 170-year history of ‘The Springs’, which was established by William Clarke in 1855.
Speaking from a table that jutted just after a sidewalk near the edges of the lake, he also presented a brief ‘history walk’, which displayed a timeline of events that led to the recent title of Berwick Springs Lake.
Touching back on the petition, Michael said during the gathering that if signed, the 2000-signature petition would go directly towards the Upper House of the Legislative Council of Victoria.
“This petition is going to give us a 30-minute debate, and that debate is going to give us some answers and some accountability as to why that consultation process wasn’t followed,” he said.
“I’m not going to stop until this is reverted, it’s wrong, it’s a travesty of justice and that’s the message I want to send out.”
Also in attendance were four councillors from the City of Casey, with Shane Taylor, Jennifer Dizon, Michelle Crowther and Lynette Periera showing their support.
Taylor said that it was “fantastic to see the numbers” during the gathering, mesmerised by the community’s support of the movement.
“Obviously, this is something that is upsetting the people, that there was no consultation.
“Our Berwick Springs Lake, now Guru Nanak Lake, was renamed without a word from the State Government, no consultation, no notice, just an announcement.
“Victoria’s own naming rules require them to consult the ‘immediate community’, that’s us, they didn’t and that’s completely unacceptable,” he said.
Taylor, with his family, moved into the Berwick Springs Estate not too long ago, recalling the community, the atmosphere, and the lake itself being critical factors in their decision.
Tying the name with the area’s identity, he said that “this isn’t about the Sikh community, it’s about the disrespect shown to a community that calls this lake home”.
“We’ve walked its trails and raised families here, yet we were left completely out of the process.
“What has happened and now it has happened, is just wrong,” he said.
Cr Crowther was on the same page, expressing her distaste for the “lack of community consultation about the name change”.
“I am disheartened by the failure of the State Government to follow its own processes,” she said.
Taylor also spoke on the significance that the motion for the change was passed, before the current councillors had been sworn in.
When he addressed the crowd during the meeting, he made it known that he was a “resident first and councillor second”, and that even then, “I wasn’t consulted”.
“There were no heads up, just a big announcement last November right before the newly elected councillors were to be sworn in, so we hadn’t even done that and the lake had already been renamed,” he said.
Dizon, while her ward is further south, said that there was an importance in showing support for the people, adding that she will take the steps to “represent the community”.
“It comes down to supporting these people here, and I’ll do everything in my power as a councillor to make sure their voices are heard,” she said.
Monique Davis, whose family had a long lineage of residency in the estate, was also present and read out a statement from Southeastern MP Ann-Marie Hermans who was not able to attend.
She read out that she had not been able to attend due to the lack of available police presence, and security concerns.
However, Ball reinforced with the crowd that “Hermans is 100 per cent behind us”, regarding the new name’s awareness.
The gathering ended just after 5:30pm, with Ball reiterating the lack of respect and the significance that councillors have shown their support.
Before the crowd dispersed, many took their time to speak with Ball and the councillors, with Ball commenting later on that his phone had not stopped buzzing with notifications, showcasing the willingness of the public to be involved.
This story is developing, and more information regarding the FOI and other details will soon be published.
As the locale ramps up for the community-wide meeting on Tuesday 19 November, a second petition in support of Guru Nanak Lake’s naming has gained some traction, encouraging engagement of the Sikh principles.
In light of the Stop Berwick Springs Name Change petition garnering roughly 5500 signatures, a petition which is stated to be “an appeal on behalf of entire Australian Multicultural Communities” has since hit roughly 2800 signatures on 18 November, just three days after it began.
A community-wide discussion, catered by Berwick MP Brad Battin and Southeastern Metropolitan MP Ann-Marie Hermans is set to take place at the lake by 6pm on Tuesday, with tensions still rising around the renaming.
Senior academic researcher and practitioner of systems thinking, Dr Harpreet Singh Kandra, said that clarity is of the utmost importance regarding the lake and whether it is truly the lack of consultation that residents are angry about or the name itself.
As a notable figure in local initiatives involving the Sikh community, such as partaking in the Safety Engaging with Water pilot program, Kandra said that the lack of consultation is something that the “Sikh community has nothing to do with”.
“Are people compassionate enough to be able to accept the new name as well as an apology [explanation] to the lack of awareness, or are they going to keep on pressing to change the name?
“This is no one’s land, this is Indigenous land, we are all migrants here, so those protesting should actually understand that Indigenous leaders have ticked off the name change.”
The Change.org petition called for the same form of mentioned clarity, to push through the misunderstanding and to spread the message of awareness on what the Sikh community has offered on the wider message of multiculturalism in Australia.
The fear of the unknown is how Kandra coined it, highlighting the lack of what the Guru stands for and what it means will not impact what the lake is, what it has been, and what it will be.
“If the lake’s name changes do you think the purposes of the lake are affected in any way? Do you think people will not be able to walk there, exercise there and enjoy nature?
“Will the ecology of the lake be affected? None of these things are going to happen, there is an ego issue out of this that I don’t understand.
“If you are to look at the history of Guru Nanak, he is a person who has been advocating for love, compassion and world peace, and I think if a lake is named after him, it is acknowledging that we need to have that love and compassion in the community,” he said.
Kandra wanted to emphasise the Sikh community’s efforts and contributions Victoria-wide, such as the Sikh Volunteers Australia and their delivery of food and support throughout natural disasters and the Covid pandemic, as well as the works of the Sikh Interfaith Council of Victoria.
He added that the events that have transpired have become too “political”, and questioned if the efforts culminating in now what has reached 5745 signatures is “productive”.
“This might get half a million signatures in support of their petition, but is that productive? Should all of us invest that kind of time in such a trivial matter?
“There are streets in several parts of Victoria such as Church Street or Chapel Street, so why can’t we have a multicultural name, or a name after someone who has always advocated for love and compassion?”
Most of all, Kandra echoed many of the Sikh community’s sentiments to the lake’s renaming backlash, inviting those who are willing and interested to learn more about what the Guru stands for.
“If consultation should have happened, and if the people think that it’s an administrative error, they should tell the Premier to learn from this and not do this in the future.
“The matter should be closed; but if they want the name to be changed, then I think it’s not very in line with the multicultural values of Australia,” he said.
However, he understands that this change is the first of its nature, and acknowledged that “big changes happen in small stages”.
Prior to the meeting at 6pm on Tuesday, many local residents are waiting for their questions to be answered, namely the “why” of the decision, and if the lake’s renaming would affect the names of the neighbouring locality.
With the Berwick Show around the corner, the International award-winning Melbourne magician Tim Mason will deliver extraordinary magic and fun like you’ve never experienced before.
Tim Mason’s one-of-a-kind magic will leave everyone laughing, scratching their heads in amazement, and with memories they’ll never forget.
Over the years, Tim has captivated audiences at schools, libraries, birthday parties, and more. From television appearances on shows like “Morning Sunrise” to touring Australia with the Metaverse of Magic and breaking magical Guinness World Records, Tim brings 14 years of expert magic and performance experience to each and every show.
As the co-founder and Director of the Melbourne Magic Academy, Tim teaches kids magic across Australia, empowering kids with skills that build character, confidence, and communication. It’s extraordinary fun that makes great kids appear.
This show is highly interactive—whether you’re on stage or in the audience, you’re part of the magic!
“Kids are the stars, and their laughter, excitement, and wonder are what the show is all about,” Tim said.
“I like to think of it like a Disney movie—kids will absolutely love it, but there’s plenty of fun for parents too! It’s a mix of jaw-dropping magic, physical comedy, and all-round extraordinary fun.”
“I love leaving space for spontaneous moments—kids always say and do the funniest things, which makes every performance unique and full of surprises.”
Expect plenty of magic wands, cheering crowds, silly antics, and kids becoming real magicians right before your eyes! It’s designed for all ages to have a laugh and be amazed.
Tim wants everyone to walk away with a huge smile on their face and maybe even sore cheeks from laughing so much.
“Magic has a special way of bringing people together, creating joy, and reminding us that the impossible just might be possible. Seeing those moments of pure wonder and excitement never gets old.”
“There’s nothing quite like hearing 200+ people go wild after witnessing something impossible! The show is designed so the kids are the real stars—they’re the ones making the magic happen and getting all the applause. And because every child brings their own personality and energy, no two shows are ever the same!”
For more info: https://www.timmasonmagic.com/kids-magic
A man has been arrested after allegedly ramming a police vehicle in a stolen Ford Ranger in Berwick last night.
Police were called to a dispute between a male and female in a shopping centre carpark on Clyde Road, Berwick about 11pm.
Investigators were told that three men attempted to intervene when it's alleged the man threatened one of the three men with a knife.
When police arrived, they directed the man to exit the Ford, the driver and sole occupant is alleged to have rammed into the police vehicle before fleeing the scene north along Clyde Road.
Police tracked the Ford to Narre Warren North Road, Narre Warren North and successfully deployed stop sticks to stop the driver fleeing.
The 49-year-old Beaconsfield Upper man was arrested at the scene and is expected to be interviewed later this morning.
No one was injured as a result of the ramming or during the arrest.
Police believe that the Ford Ranger was stolen from an address in Narre Warren on Saturday, 14 December at 4.45pm.
Anyone who witnessed the incident, has dashcam/CCTV footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
Berwick Little Athletics Club delivered a standout performance at the State Championships over the weekend, claiming an impressive 13 gold, 11 silver, and 21 bronze medals.
Prior to the event, two young girls were very excited to be performing at such a high level.
Under 13’s athlete, Portia Miller, trains almost every day. Prior to the event, she told Star News “I’m hoping to win long jump because I’ve been training for that.”
On Sunday 9 March, Portia took her Gold Medal straight to the pool room for her jump of 5.09 metres.
She also placed second in hurdles with a time of 12.8 seconds and took home bronze in the 100m and 200m sprints.
Under 15’s athlete, Eden Pike, said “ I always look forward to the weekends when I get to compete.”
She finished second in the 200m with a time of 26.34 seconds, while claiming third in triple jump, 100m, and 400m events.
Club president, Robert Dugdale, said “Our Centre is thrilled with the results from last weekend’s State Championships.
Berwick athletes excelled in the warm conditions and we congratulate all those who won medals on the day. Qualifying for a State Championship event is a tremendous achievement and all participating athletes should be proud of their efforts.”
Team manager, Shona Tofts-Liyanage, also commended the young athletes on a tremendous weekend.
“The athletes all coped well in the weather and I think the club had an amazing weekend,” she said.
“This was the largest number of athletes we’ve ever had qualify for state.”
In total, 118 athletes from Berwick Little Athletics Club competed, with 62 athletes finishing in the top 8.
ਐਡੀਲੇਡ ਵਿਖੇ ਅਸਥੀ ਪ੍ਰਵਾਹ ਲਈ ਇੱਕ ਸਮਰਪਿਤ ਥਾਂ ਨੂੰ ਮਨਜ਼ੂਰੀ