PAKENHAM OFFICER STAR NEWS
Home » Sequel plan for Covid crusade

Sequel plan for Covid crusade

A multi-lingual Covid information campaign is set to have a sequel.

The next instalments of the South East Community Links (SECL) series are being supported with $62,000 in State funding.

The first series, starring comedian Diana Nguyen as a caped crusader, tackled anxiety about Covid-19 and third-dose vaccinations.

It reached 30,000-plus people in multiple languages across digital channels, SECL chief executive Peter McNamara said.

The next project will tackle the longer-term impacts of the pandemic and lockdowns.

“In SECL’s work with young people, we have also observed declining states of mental health and wellbeing,” Mr McNamara said..

“In particular, social connectedness, sleep and physical activity have declined leading to adverse impacts on family relationships, education and health among some youth.”

The series will promote social connections, healthy behaviours and “hope for a brighter future”.

“While this campaign is directly targeted at youth, we also see them as an important communication channel that reaches parents, siblings, relatives, friends and communities.”

In March, Mr McNamara said there was a “huge gap” in culturally-appropriate health education and vaccination services.

“Our experience shows that when information is translated and presented by community leaders, there is more trust and respect.”

The project was funded as part of the State Government’s Multicultural Communications Outreach Program, which promotes Covid-safe behaviour and recovery in multicultural communities.

“Multicultural media outlets have played a vital role ensuring everyone knows how to play their part in keeping the community safe,” Multicultural Affairs Minister Ros Spence said.

“It’s a big job – and I can’t thank them enough.”

Digital Editions


  • Warriors get bounce back

    Warriors get bounce back

    Braden Venning and his Pakenham Warriors Youth Men just continue to elevate and improve. After being taught a resounding lesson by reigning premiers Kilsyth on…

More News

  • Gold-letter win at Garfield

    Gold-letter win at Garfield

    Purchase this photo from Pic Store: 509508 GARFIELD GOLF Perfect weather conditions greeted a field of 53 pairs who lined up for battle in the 2026 Men’s Foursomes Championships at…

  • Pakenham Show excites in 115th year

    Pakenham Show excites in 115th year

    It was another stellar year for the Pakenham Show, with friendly competition, rides and wonderful displays. The 115th Parklea Pakenham Agricultural and Horticultural Show was held on Saturday 14 March,…

  • Lang Lang boat ramp complete

    Lang Lang boat ramp complete

    Local families can now enjoy improved access to Western Port Bay with the completion of the new Lang Lang boat ramp. On Friday 13 March, Bass MP Jordan Crugnale announced…

  • Pakenham Show results

    Pakenham Show results

    2025 PAKENHAM SHOW WINNERS THOMAS AWARD. BEST IN SHOW – Megan McAlpine PERPETUAL TROPHY WINNER – Kaye Howells VAS 2 CARROT CAKE – Pat Jones, Lisa Rob VAS 4 JUNIOR…

  • Pakenham medicare urgent care clinic delivering for local community

    Pakenham medicare urgent care clinic delivering for local community

    Since opening on 16 December 2025, the Pakenham Medicare Urgent Care Clinic has been delivering for residents of Pakenham. Located at 17 John Street Pakenham, the Pakenham Medicare Urgent Care…