DANDENONG
Tuesday, 31 August, 2021
NELLIE MELBA RETIREMENT VILLAGE
ll i H s r e l ee h in W
12509393-SN36-21
ENDEAVOUR HILLS HALLAM DOVETON
Tuesday, 31 August, 2021
NELLIE MELBA RETIREMENT VILLAGE
ll i H s r e l ee h in W
12509393-SN36-21
NELLIE MELBA SISTERS STICK TOGETHER Mary and Margaret are sisters who have generally led life together.
second-floor apartment, enjoying proximity to nearby schools.
Embarking on their newest adventure, a move to a stunning two-bedroom apartment at Ryman Healthcare’s Nellie Melba Retirement Village in Wheelers Hill, has been no different.
“We can hear children, which is wonderful, but don’t have to teach them!” Margaret says.
“What’s important to us is at Ryman the support is here to keep us together,” Mary says. “Our doctor has said it’s the best 20-year plan she has seen.” From both qualifying as teachers in Glasgow, teaching in Australia, owning businesses together and living together for the past 34 years, the sisters have a special bond. Ryman Healthcare’s continuum of care, from low care and high care to specialist dementia care, will enable this to continue. “We have many memories of growing up in Glasgow, and we have all of the memories from further down the road in Mulgrave, and now coming in at this age together allows us to make memories here,” Margaret says. Having dedicated their careers to education, they chose their spacious
its
Margaret and Mary retired in 2018 having spent the past several years opening and operating three tutoring businesses. “We both started teaching in Glasgow and the children were great,” Margaret says. “Most of the students and their parents valued their education because they saw it as a way out, they saw education as a way to move up the ladder.” The sisters never lost their passion for the sector, but retirement, and the prospect of moving into Nellie Melba, had been a welcome new chapter. “We lived down the road, so we saw the village going up and something appeared in our letterbox with people we knew from our parish in the advertising,” Margaret says. “We certainly cornered one of the people we knew here and said ‘ok, tell us about it, are you happy? Would you do it again?’
Ryman’s proactive response to COVID-19, including moving vulnerable staff into the village, was further confirmation the move was right. “One morning during lockdown we walked past here, and people were doing an exercise class from their balconies and everybody was just having fun,” Mary says. “In time to come when people are deciding about aged care, people will be looking at the history of how a place coped during COVID, and everything we know about what Ryman did was excellent.” “I think the fact staff moved in is testament to the quality of people that work here,” Margaret says. Having settled into their new home, Mary and Margaret are enjoying and gradually participating in all the village has to offer, including a swimming pool, café, bowling green, cinema and weekly Happy Hour get togethers.
Pictured: Mary and Margaret on the balcony of their two-bedroom apartment at the Nellie Melba Retirement Village.
“The feedback was that it was very good.”
For more information, phone Morag on 0414 458 149 or Lorelle on 0460 315 417
NELLIE MELBA RETIREMENT VILLAGE 2 Collegium Avenue, Wheelers Hill
rymanhealthcare.com.au 12509394-SN36-21
2W STAR JOURNAL
|
Tuesday, 31 August, 2021
dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
RETIRE IN WHEELERS HILL Nellie Melba Village offers living choices to suit everyone, so residents can live the way they want and blaze their own trails. Our apartments are light and spacious with well-considered layouts, and have balcony or patio options. For year-round comfort, all apartments are air conditioned and heated.
If down the track you need more support, we offer assisted living in a serviced apartment and a full range of residential aged care options. That freedom and flexibility is empowering for residents and knowing care can be dialled up as needed means, quite simply, ‘no worries’. It’s all part of what we like to call the Ryman Difference.
Selling now! $790,000
2
1.5
1
Relax in comfort
86.8m2
$1,090,000
3
2
1
108m2
Retire in style
We invite you to experience what life is like for our residents in our Nellie Melba Retirement Village via our virtual zoom event.
A DAY IN THE LIFE A VIRTUAL EVENT Thursday 2 September, 1pm & 6.30pm
Bob and Joan will take us on a tour of the village, which was filmed prior to lockdown, and answer a range of questions about their new home, along with fellow residents Mary and Margaret. Our team will also take you through what makes Ryman different from other retirement villages.
To register please search Ryman events
12509395-JW36-21
dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
Tuesday, 31 August, 2021
|
STAR JOURNAL 3W
THE FUTURE.YOU’RE GOOD. When you choose a Ryman village, you’re set. Our Peace of Mind Guarantees are designed to protect you, so whatever the future holds, we’ve got your back. From independent and assisted living to low care, high care and specialist dementia care. Our deferred management fee is capped at 20% - one of the lowest in the retirement sector. Our base weekly fee is fixed for the entire time you occupy your villa or apartment* *Some conditions apply
Having certainty inspires confidence. It’s just one of the ways we’re pioneering a new way of living for a new retirement generation.
We have a range of one, two and three bedroom apartments available at our Nellie Melba Retirement Village. Contact Lorelle on 0460 315 417 or Morag on 0414 458 149 for more information.
NELLIE MELBA RETIREMENT VILLAGE 2 Collegium Avenue, Wheelers Hill
12509396-SN36-21
rymanhealthcare.com.au
4W STAR JOURNAL
|
Tuesday, 31 August, 2021
dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
ENDEAVOUR HILLS HALLAM DOVETON
Tuesday, 31 August, 2021
@StarJournal_SE
/DandenongJournal
endeavourhillshallamdoveton.starcommunity.com.au
SE jab rate lagging
‘Above the law’
Do it for Dad
October start on the cards
PAGE 7
PAGE 9
PAGES 12-13
SPORT
40¢ Inc. GST
12509694-DL35-21
WIN a $1000 SHOPPING SPREE
SCAN QR CODE
starcommunity.com.au/competitions
Crowning glory For three decades, Danni Di Toro has built a glittering international sports career since a tragic accident at Dandenong Oasis. Last week, she represented Australia for the seventh time at the Paralympics and was chosen as cobearer of the national flag in the Tokyo Games’ opening ceremony. For more, turn to page 3
Picture: PARALYMPICS AUSTRALIA
‘Double standard’ By Cam Lucadou-Wells I Cook Foods director Ian Cook has told an inquiry that his company was destroyed by health authorities despite “unequivocal proof” of its innocence. ICF was shut down as part of a state health department and City of Greater Dandenong investigation into a hospital patient’s death who contracted listeriosis in early 2019. A Parliamentary inquiry has been re-opened into what it described as the company’s “inappropriate” closure after evidence alleged that the patient didn’t eat ICF products. It contra-
dicts testimony by senior officials at the inquiry last year, the inquiry’s terms of reference notes. “We didn’t kill anybody,” Mr Cook said. “The Department of Health and Human Services knew this before they closed us. The City of Greater Dandenong were informed shortly after and yet still proceeded to charge me.” Mr Cook compared the “double standard” of a recent case of a company which provided a Meals on Wheels meal positively linked to the death of an elderly man. The business was recently contacted the council’s environmental health officer and said the case was closed with no further action.
“Good people who were directly involved… reached out to me and shared this evidence because they saw the lies being told about I Cook Foods and they couldn’t stand it. “Now the business did actually provide a meal to the elderly man that contained listeria mono. “My business has never contributed to the death of anyone.” Mr Cook said ICF was treated differently because it was a commercial rival of Community Chef, a caterer co-funded by the health department and several councils including Greater Dandenong.
“How can a council be allowed to regulate a commercial rival? As I have said before it would be like giving Hungry Jacks the power to close down McDonald’s and take all their customers.” Community Chef were “going broke” and were “advantaged” by getting ICF “out of the way”, he said. Mr Cook said four police investigations in the past two years had failed to lay charges for the “most serious crimes on our statutes” on those behind the closure. Continued page 5 More inquiry coverage, pages 4-5
OPEN 24 HOURS
Your local Funeral Director “Let us lend a helping hand”
Remember Brember
0429 920 241
www.bremberfamilyfunerals.com
12492602-DL18-21
Full Services from $3200 We’re here to keep your car running.
Open for
Click & Collect.
PURCHASE ONLINE OR CONTACT US ON 9792 5835 & COLLECT AT STORE.
DANDENONG Cnr Frankston Dandenong Rd & Zenith Rd, PH: 9792 5835 autobarn.com.au 12510237-BL36-21
12511214-JW36-21
2 STAR JOURNAL
|
Tuesday, 31 August, 2021
endeavourhillshallamdoveton.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
IN BRIEF
Honour for athlete By Cam Lucadou-Wells It’s been a Paralympics like no other. And especially memorable for seven-time Paralympian Danni Di Toro. The 46-year-old was given the rare honour of carrying the Australian flag with wheelchair rugby player Ryley Batt in the Tokyo Games opening ceremony on 24 August. Eerily, they marched in front of a stadium emptied of spectators and many of the athletes due to the Covid pandemic. Their teammates, who they’d normally lead into a cheering arena, were watching on from the Games Village. The 46-year-old Di Toro felt a “proud, humbling and special” experience despite the vacuum. “We had a moment before we marched … we thought of all of our team that worked so hard to get here to Tokyo and the 1044 Paralympians watching and supporting in spirit.” Di Toro has forged a glittering career including a Paralympic silver and bronze medal in wheelchair tennis, as well as Grand Slam titles and 10 Australian Open trophies. Her international career started just one year after she was crushed by a collapsed brick wall at a school swim carnival at Dandenong Oasis pool in 1988. At just 13, she suffered paraplegia as a result. Initially, all she got told were “the things I couldn’t do, what I couldn’t do again, what I would never experience and what I would have to relearn”. “It’s pretty dehumanizing. “It’s a strange place when things get taken from you but sport was a lovely way to experience what I can do, what I can get better at and what I feel I’ve got some control over.” Sport helped her through rehab but most importantly introduced her to athletes that were her “kin” or “mob”. “They’re a community of humans who have worked through their disability and living these incredibly meaningful lives. “Sport provides me the greatest arena to meet myself. I love the challenges it brings. I love how it shows me some of the s****y stuff about me, some of the good stuff about me. “It allows me to explore and grow. That’s what life is about.” At incredibly her seventh Games at Tokyo, she has shifted into para-table tennis. The squad was grateful to be there after the Games were postponed for a year. To keep safe, athletes are kept tight in a village bubble and strict pandemic protocols.
An Isuzu truck was impounded for 30 days after being intercepted by police on Stud Road, Dandenong.
Drug-driver’s truck impounded An alleged drug-driver’s unregistered, defective truck has been impounded after being pulled over by police on Stud Road, Dandenong. Casey Highway Patrol officers say they observed the driver of the Isuzu truck not wearing a seatbelt on Tuesday 24 August. The 44-year-old Dandenong driver tested positive to methamphetamine and did not have a heavy vehicle licence, police say. The truck’s number plates weren’t registered to the truck, which had been unregistered since 2017. The vehicle’s brakes were also allegedly not working properly. The truck was immediately impounded for 30 days, with the driver copping $2601 in fines. The man will be summonsed to appear at court at a later date.
Danni Di Toro and Ryley Batt were co-flag bearers for the Australian team at the opening ceremony. Picture: PARALYMPICS AUSTRALIA The 330 athletes dine together breakfast, lunch and dinner in their own “allotment”. Their only sights of Tokyo have been out of a bus window, with locals waving to them from the streets. In the meantime, Ms Di Toro is pleased the Paralympians can give “a little bit of joy” to
Aussies locked down at home. “I feel it’s a lovely time to introduce the Australian public to our athletes. “They’ve worked through a lot, they’re pretty agile human beings, they know how to adapt, they understand challenges, they bring incredible learning and incredible growth.”
Push to review South East Covid fines By Cam Lucadou-Wells A community legal service is appealing a mass of Covid-related fines in the South East. Covid fines were the most prolific offence in Greater Dandenong, with more than 2000 issued over the 12 months up to 31 March 2021. More than 5 per cent of Victoria’s Covid fines were in Greater Dandenong. Kristen Wallwork of Springvale Monash Legal Service said many of the people fined up to $4957 were already under financial hardship. They were also appealing the circumstances in which they were fined. Some were young people who ran into people they knew while they were out exercising. They dispute that they were intentionally congregating in breach of Chief Health Officer directions. Others include a pair of cleaners who travelled in a car together without masks. Because they couldn’t speak English, they were unable to convey to police officers that they were in fact husband-and-wife. Ms Wallwork said the SMLS was seeking Fines Victoria to review the infringements – a process hindered by the state’s fines agency’s large backlog. Covid shutdowns have meanwhile dedandenong.starcommunity.com.au
Springvale Monash Legal Service executive director Kristen Wallwork says clients are seeking a review of their Covid fines. 200317 Picture: FELICIEN BIZOT layed a surge of family violence matters at court, she says. The collaborative approach at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court between lawyers, court support workers and multi-disciplinary services have been disrupted by lockdowns. It comes as SMLS has been funded to provide extra lawyers focused on family violence. During Covid, family violence serious assaults have risen 12 per cent and domes-
tic common assaults 10 per cent in Greater Dandenong. Intervention order breaches soared by 29 percent, stalking 17 per cent and harassment 33 per cent. “The numbers are large and the issue is large in the Dandenong court. There’s incredibly collaborative work done to find the most effective way to deal with these matters,” Ms Wallwork says. “During lockdowns, services have been unable to work together as they normally would.” SMLS clients are also struggling to pay the household rent, especially with the end of the Covid eviction moratorium from 29 March 2021. International students who lost casual work due to Covid have been particularly vulnerable. Their problems were compounded by a scam in which they pay a bond to a supposed landlord and find that the place has been already rented, Ms Wallwork said. They find that their ‘bond’ hasn’t been registered with the Residential Tenancies Bond Authority, and so have no recourse for compensation. Ms Wallwork said some clients are being pressured by landlords to pay arrears from the rental moratorium period.
A 31-year-old woman is arrested during a police raid in Keysborough.
Woman arrested at ‘grow house’ A woman has been arrested and more than 130 cannabis plants allegedly seized by police at a house in Keysborough. Dandenong Divisional Response Unit detectives raided the Waterfront Avenue property just after 7am on Wednesday 25 August. They say they found a hydroponic cannabis inside. A 31-year-old woman was arrested at the scene and questioned by police.
Pair charged over dope crop Two men have been arrested at an alleged cannabis crop house in Keysborough. Police were called to the Wooltana Road property after a man was reportedly acting erratically in the middle of the road about 11.30am on Friday 27 August. Cannabis plants were found in a rear shed and elsewhere at the house, as well as an imitation gun and other prohibited weapons. A 39-year-old man was charged with cultivate narcotic plant, possess drug of dependence, possess imitation firearm and possess prohibited weapon. He was bailed to appear at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on 11 November. A 36-year-old man was charged with cultivate narcotic plant and possess drug of dependence. He was remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 28 August.
Correction In a story on the state electoral boundaries review, it was incorrectly stated that Dingley Village is in the Mordialloc electorate (‘Parties “accept” seat loss’, Star Journal, 24 August). The suburb moved from Mordialloc to the Keysborough electorate in 2014. Tuesday, 31 August, 2021
|
STAR JOURNAL 3
NEWS
Slug picture ‘doctored’ By Cam Lucadou-Wells A whistle-blower witnessed Greater Dandenong officers “doctoring” a photo of a slug as they prepared charges against I Cook Foods, a Parliamentary inquiry has heard on 25 August. Former Greater Dandenong food inspector Kim Rogerson was asked if Greater Dandenong officers planted the slug – which was photographed on the ICF kitchen floor during an inspection in February 2019. “Yes,” she said. Days later, ICF was closed by health authorities as part of an investigation into a hospital patient’s death. The inquiry is examining ICF’s “inappropriate” closure, after evidence emerged that the patient did not eat ICF products. Ms Rogerson told the inquiry she was “horrified” that environmental health officer Elizabeth Garlick and co-ordinator Leanne Johnson, allegedly, changed and doctored photos and body cam footage. In an excerpt of her statement to Victoria Police, she described the pair speaking softly in apparently “sneaky” and “suspicious” fashion as they prepared a prosecution brief against ICF. On Ms Garlick’s computer screen was an image of a slug and tissue paper on a floor taken during the inspection. A red circle encompassed the tissue, as if it was to be edited, Ms Rogerson said. Ms Johnson allegedly told Ms Rogerson they were “just cleaning up and removing personal conversations”. The final photograph submitted did not have tissue paper. It was part of an “over the top” and “unfair” targeting of ICF, Ms Rogerson said. “It was as if they were given directions to follow.” She said she knew Ms Garlick would delib-
A picture of the slug as submitted by City of Greater Dandenong to the Parliamentary inquiry into I Cook Foods’ closure. erately take “close-up” photos and “blow them up” to misrepresent the condition of ICF’s kitchen. Photos of broken equipment about to be thrown-out such as knives and whisks were also used to create a charge. This was “standard criminal behaviour that I was exposed to”, she said. Alleged “pooling of water” was photographed during a wash-down of the kitchen floor. Ms Garlick and Ms Johnson’s actions were “central” to the “alleged crimes” by ICF.
All 96 charges were eventually dropped by the council, as ICF alleged the council’s evidence was fabricated. The council has argued it dropped the charges to avoid a potential $1.2 million legal bill. Ms Rogerson said the council “turned” on her when she refused to help it “illegally frame” ICF. She said the then planning and compliance manager Greg Spicer asked her to “lie” in her sworn statement “designed to destroy the Cooks”. Her statement alludes to an alleged prior
meeting and conversation with ICF’s Ben Cook that never happened, she said. She signed the statement contributed to by “others” out of fear of being sacked. She was asked to rewrite sections allegedly written by Mr Spicer into her own words. Ms Rogerson said she was shocked by some of the “lies” told by her former colleagues and superiors in the first round of the inquiry in 2020. Some of the “lies” were “designed to smear me” and “cover up their crimes”, she told the inquiry. “After they destroyed my career and big parts of my life, they then come into Parliament and did everything to destroy my good name.” Ms Rogerson said she only now, two years after the event, she felt safe to say that the council “operates under a culture of corruption and bullying”. During her earlier evidence to the inquiry in 2020, she was “scared” to describe all she knew. For several years, Ms Rogerson had been inspecting the factory. She’d collected the first listeria samples and swabbing of surfaces on 1 February as part of the patient-death investigation. She was on leave during Ms Johnson and Ms Garlick’s inspection. Ms Rogerson has been in a protracted Work Cover claim, which she says the council has been opposing for the past two years. Greater Dandenong officers Ms Garlick, Leanne Johnson and chief executive John Bennie are expected to re-appear at the inquiry on 1 September. A council spokesperson said: “Council vehemently denies what is alleged, and looks forward to being able to refute that allegation when it presents to the Parliamentary Committee next week.”
Hospital listed as concern Subscribe to the
Dandenong Star Journal
Digital Edition
FREE DANDENONG
Tuesday, 2 February, 2021
DANDENONG
/DandenongJournal
@StarJournal_SE
Living treasures named
Oasis marks 30 years
The Dry actor in profile
City’s historic clash
PAGE 7
PAGE 8
PAGE 11
SPORT
Tuesday, 2 February, 2021
40¢ Inc. GST
12476975-LB02-21
SIGN UP NOW!
dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
/DandenongJournal
@StarJournal_SE
Living treasures named
Oasis marks 30 years
The Dry actor in profile
City’s historic clash
PAGE 7
PAGE 8
PAGE 11
SPORT
40¢ Inc. GST
SIGN UP NOW!
12476975-LB02-21
dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
DANDENONG
Selba Luka, centre, receives her award from Mayor Angela Long and Deputy Mayor Sophie Tan.
Pictures: HAS MEDIA
Selba (front) and volunteer Veronica in the Afri Aus-Care veggie garden. The organisation provides cooking classes for vulnerable members of the community. 213664
By Danielle Kutchel A tireless champion for African and CALD communities has been named Greater Dandenong’s Citizen of the Year. Selba Luka, founder of Afri-Aus Care, received the award at an invite-only event at Springvale City Hall on Tuesday 26 January. She admitted the award was a total shock, but a welcome one, and dedicated it to the community, staff, volunteers, supporters and
NOW OPEN
sponsors of Afri-Aus Care. Born in Malawi, Ms Luka often says her heart is in South Sudan as she works closely with the south-eastern South Sudanese community. Afri-Aus Care was born of her experiences when she arrived in Australia, where she experienced difficulties and hardship in her first years in the country. The not-for-profit provides mental health
5 AM - 11:30 PM 7 DAYS • CARD • COIN • MOBILE PAY
Scan this QR code to subscribe • CARD • COIN • MOBILE PAY
Or visit dandenong.starcommunity.com.au/subscribe 4 STAR JOURNAL
|
Tuesday, 31 August, 2021
African women who are new to Australia and need assistance to find employment and learn English. Many of these women are survivors of domestic abuse, and Afri-Aus Care provides mental health support too as they build a new life. Speaking at the Australia Day ceremony, Ms Luka said she was honoured to have received such a prestigious award. “May we continue to be united. Dandenong is a great city to be,“ she said.
NOBLE PARK LAUNDROMAT
5 AM - 11:30 PM 7 DAYS
support, outreach and skills development for members of the African and CALD communities. It works closely with youth offenders, providing them with a pathway out of these behaviours and into a more positive contribution to society. During the pandemic for example, ex-offenders helped create food hampers and deliver these to the most vulnerable in society. Afri-Aus Care also works with “the mamas“,
Affordable and Compassionate
12481588-JW07-21
City’s top citizen
Monash Medical Centre’s emergency department has been listed as a Tier 1 exposure site. An infected case attended the ED’s ‘fasttrack’ clinic waiting room at Clayton on Saturday 21 August, 3.35pm-6.30pm. Anyone at the waiting room at that time must get tested immediately and quarantine for 14 days from the exposure, the Department of Health states. Also the ED’s triage waiting room is listed as a Tier 2 site, with some individuals classed as Tier 1 contacts being contacted directly by the health department. Anyone at the Tier 2 site at 3.20pm3.35pm on Saturday 21 August is urged to get tested immediately and quarantine until a negative result is confirmed. Greater Dandenong’s only Tier 1 site is a GP clinic in Dandenong North. A Covid-infected person attended Dr Tawfik Massarany’s surgery at 19 Brady Road on Friday 20 August between the times of 8.50am-1.20pm and 3pm-6.30pm, according to the Department of Health. Anyone at the surgery at those times is being told to get tested immediately and quarantine for 14 days from the exposure. There remains three active cases in Greater Dandenong – two residents in Dandenong and one in Keysborough. In the locality, there are 15 Tier 2 exposure sites. The venues include Coles supermarket at Princes Highway, Dandenong on Monday 16 August between 7.35pm-8.18pm and Tuesday 10 August 6.50am-7.10am. Also on Monday 16 August, Samios Plumbing Supplies in Kitchen Road Dandenong at 10.15am-10.45am, Springvale South milk bar in Darren Street at 11.35am11.50am and North Dandy Bottle-O Shop at Dunearn Road, Dandenong North at 7.15pm-7.45pm were visited by an infected case. Others on the list are a 7-Eleven outlet on Cheltenham Road, Keysborough on
Tuesday 17 August 11.30am-11.50am, and a milk bar at 48 Beau Vorno Avenue Keysborough on Thursday 19 August 2.40pm-3pm. A construction site at Waverly Gardens shopping centre, Police Road Mulgrave was also listed for Tuesday 17 August 8.30am4pm. Tier 1 contacts at the site were to be contacted directly by the Department of Health. Others are Woolworths at The Village, Princes Highway Dandenong South on Sunday 15 August 2.45pm-3.15pm and IKEA Springvale on the same day between 4.10pm-4.35pm. A case also attended Miele Clearance Centre in Atlantic Drive Keysborough on Thursday 5 August 10.02am-10.47am. The list also includes 7-Eleven Sandown at 585 Princes Highway Noble Park on Tuesday 10 August 6.50am-7.10am, Dandenong Supercinic and Terry White Chemmart, 56-58 Stud Road, Dandenong on Thursday 12 August 9pm-10.20pm, Princes Pizza & Kebab, 4/26 Princes Highway Dandenong on Thursday 12 August 10.15pm-10.45pm, Chemist Warehouse at 2/30 Princes Highway Dandenong on Friday 13 August 12.15pm-1.15pm and Colombo Impex at 3 Clow Street Dandenong on Friday 13 August 7.15pm-8pm. Those who visited Tier 2 sites at these times are being advised to urgently get Covid-tested and to quarantine until they obtain a negative result. The updated list of exposure sites in Victoria is at coronavirus.vic.gov.au/exposuresites dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
Patient’s diet not I Cook’s By Cam Lucadou-Wells
I Cook Foods was closed for a month despite a food inspector’s report that a deceased hospital patient hadn’t eaten ICF sandwiches, an inquiry heard. 190890 “We’ll never ever really know where she got that infection.” Key evidence included samples of the patient’s food. Knox Council was called in to investigate four weeks after the patient’s diagnosis – too late to collect such samples, Mr Christy said. Other required evidence were copies of the
Council and CHO to front Health department and City of Greater Dandenong figures will front the re-opened inquiry into I Cook Foods’ closure on Wednesday 1 September. The inquiry – also known as ‘slug gate’ – is re-examining the “inappropriate” closure of the Dandenong South commercial kitchen in early February. Among the witness list is Chief Health
Officer Brett Sutton, who signed the closure order. Also appearing from the Department of Health are Deputy Chief Health Officer Angie Bone, Paul Goldsmith, Pauline Maloney and Sally Atkinson. City of Greater Dandenong chief executive John Bennie, the council’s environmental health officer Elizabeth Garlick and its public health coordinator Leanne Johnson will also appear.
Closure ‘double standard’ From page 1 “Now thanks to the intervention of Chief Commissioner Shane Patton, the investigation … has reopened. I need to believe VicPol will now focus only on the police work and leave the politics to others.” The Government was running a “protection racket” for Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton, who issued the “unlawful” closure order. Professor Sutton told a press conference he was acting out of an “abundance of caution” to protect elderly people at risk, Mr Cook noted. “Through all of this, I have been forced to watch Dr Brett Sutton, a man who I maintain lied and destroyed my business and who Detective Ash Penry calls a person of interest in serious crimes, being given unfettered powers to lock up 6.4 million Victorians. “I strongly believe this Government is running a protection racket for Dr Sutton. This needs to stop regardless of the pandemic.” He refuted council and health department evidence at the inquiry in 2020 – or what he called “provable lies” that had become “more stark and easier to prove”. “That day was one of the most difficult times of my life as I had to listen to the misrepresentations and what clearly seemed to me to be lies from people in positions of trust that we should be able to rely on and respect. “I could not stop thinking of the 41 jobs that were deliberately destroyed along with my business. dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
“Those jobs belonged to incredibly good people who didn’t deserve to have their lives and their families’ lives destroyed by corruption.” He rejected the council’s claims of defects at his factory, which became the basis of 96 “fabricated” food-safety charges that were ultimately dropped by the council. They included the allegedly planted slug on the floor, and water pooling observed while staff were washing the floor. At the inquiry in 2020, Greater Dandenong Council tabled a “misleading” list of ICF “noncompliances” in previous years, such as a stone being found in rice provided by a supplier, Mr Cook said. ICF has launched a $50 million lawsuit against the council and health department for the closure. “We’re strong. We’re not going away. This is not just about myself, my family, my employees any more. This is about democracy in Victoria. “Someone needs to hold Daniel Andrews and his government to account.” Mr Cook requested an opportunity to address the council and department’s evidence to the inquiry on 1 September in case “other falsehoods” were made. A council spokesperson said: “Council vehemently denies what is alleged, and looks forward to being able to refute that allegation when it presents to the Parliamentary Committee next week.”
patient’s four-day food history, which had by that time been destroyed by the hospital. “We must be absolutely certain and proven beyond a reasonable doubt before taking serious action against a food business, (that) there’s evidence to actually confirm that risk is present. “You cannot just rely on genome sequenc-
DOMESTIC ANIMAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 2021-2025 In accordance with Section 68A of the Domestic Animals Act 1994, the City of Greater Dandenong is required to produce a Domestic Animal Management Plan for 2021-2025. The Draft plan can now be viewed on Council’s website, and comments can be made at: www.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au Closing date for comments is 5pm, 20 September 2021.
Tuesday, 31 August, 2021
|
12510764-SN36-21
Commercial caterer I Cook Foods was forced to shut down hours before a Knox Council health inspector reported evidence that it was likely in the clear, an inquiry has heard. In early 2019, the Dandenong South factory was shut for a month by health authorities as part of an investigation into the death of an elderly Knox Private Hospital patient with suspected listeria poisoning. Knox Council health inspector Ray Christy told the Parliamentary inquiry into ICF’s closure on 25 August he reported to the state’s health department that the patient hadn’t eaten ICF’s sandwiches. On his inspection of the hospital on 21 February 2019, he was told the patient was likely on a “soft diet” of sandwiches without crusts prepared in the hospital’s own kitchen. Six other food suppliers contributed to the hospital-prepared meals – none of which were investigated, Mr Christy said. Before Mr Christy filed his report, thenActing Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton signed the closure order that day and it was served on ICF at 4am on 22 February. About 10.30am, Mr Christy emailed his report to the health department. Within minutes, he got a phone call from the department to double-check the patient was on a “soft diet”. “In my opinion they were dissatisfied with that answer,” Mr Christy told the inquiry. After a further inspection, Mr Christy was told the hospital was “certain” of the patient’s ‘soft food’ diet and he confirmed this in a second report at 12.42pm. Less than two hours later, Professor Sutton issued a public press release and fronted a press conference announcing ICF’s shutdown. An inspector for 30 years, Mr Christy said “key evidence” was missing to conclude what the source of the listeria infection was.
ing of listeria monocytogenes pathogen.” There were strict policies to ensure food businesses weren’t closed “willy nilly”, Mr Christy said. “You don’t proceed in the process of shutting them down until you’ve got the complete picture.” Mr Christy said he was instructed by the health department to focus on ICF supplied sandwiches but not other possible foods eaten at the hospital. Yet, listeria could also be found in soft cheeses, salad mix and vegetables, he said. “If the patient ate other foods other than sandwiches, why wasn’t I asked to focus on those food suppliers?” At the inquiry hearings in 2020, Professor Sutton claimed I Cook Foods was the hospital’s “sole caterer”. He didn’t refer the inquiry to Mr Christy’s contrary findings. The department had interviewed the patient’s next-of-kin and treating doctor to obtain the patient’s food history, he said. “These interviews revealed that whilst in hospital the patient only consumed food from the hospital, with all food provided by Knox Private Hospital’s sole caterer, I Cook Foods. “I had good information that the patient had consumed food supplied by I Cook Foods during her incubation period—so the period from potential consumption of food until becoming unwell—and that I Cook Foods was the only premises where listeria was detected.” Prof Sutton said “no one single piece of information was used in isolation” in his decision to close ICF. “Rather, it was the collective picture of public health risk that I believed I Cook Foods’ continuing food production represented.” Prof Sutton is expected to re-appear at the inquiry on 1 September.
STAR JOURNAL 5
$
1000
SHOPPING SPREE
Bounce into Spring with the chance to
WIN a $1000 Woolworth’s gift card! But, you must be in it to win it! Scan the QR Code for more details or go to starcommunity.com.au/competitions NOW! Entries close Noon Tuesday September 28, 2021 Spring into action and invite your friends to enter too! 6 STAR JOURNAL
|
Tuesday, 31 August, 2021
dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
South East’s jab rate lags
Covid exposure scare, but councillor gets ‘all clear’ By Cam Lucadou-Wells
AUCTION Mortgagee in Possession Unit 3 @ 3 Apple court Doveton
the health department. Anyone at the Tier 2 site at 3.20pm-3.35pm on Saturday 21 August is urged to get tested immediately and quarantine until a negative result is confirmed. Greater Dandenong’s only Tier 1 site is a GP clinic in Dandenong North. A Covid-infected person attended Dr Tawfik Massarany’s surgery at 19 Brady Road on Friday 20 August between the times of 8.50am1.20pm and 3pm-6.30pm, according to the Department of Health. Anyone at the surgery at those times is being told to get tested immediately and quarantine for 14 days from the exposure. Tier 2 exposure sites include Coles supermarket at Princes Highway, Dandenong on Monday 16 August between 7.35pm-8.18pm, and Sunday 15 August 7.01pm-7.35pm. Chemist Warehouse in Lonsdale Street, Dandenong was recently added due to an infected case visiting on Tuesday 17 August 3.30pm-4pm. Also on Monday 16 August, Samios Plumbing Supplies in Kitchen Road Dandenong at 10.15am-10.45am, Springvale South milk bar in Darren Street at 11.35am-11.50am and North Dandy Bottle-O Shop at Dunearn Road, Dandenong North at 7.15pm-7.45pm were visited by an infected case. Others on the list are a 7-Eleven outlet on Cheltenham Road, Keysborough on Tuesday 17 August 11.30am-11.50am, and a milk bar at 48 Beau Vorno Avenue Keysborough on Thursday 19 August 2.40pm-3pm. A construction site at Waverly Gardens shopping centre, Police Road Mulgrave was also listed for Tuesday 17 August 8.30am-4pm. Tier 1 contacts at the site were to be contacted directly by the Department of Health. Others are Woolworths at The Village, Princes Highway Dandenong South on Sunday 15 August 2.45pm-3.15pm and IKEA Springvale on the same day between 4.10pm-4.35pm. Those who visited Tier 2 sites at these times are being advised to urgently get Covid-tested and to quarantine until they obtain a negative result. The updated list of exposure sites in Victoria is at coronavirus.vic.gov.au/exposure-sites
Ideal first home / investment. Internal repaint, new carpets in bedrooms, bedrooms with BIR’s, master has WIR & full ensuite. Sizeable lounge room & kitchen, 2nd bathroom & toilet, private yard & double garage close to all amenities. Terms 10% Deposit 30 day settlement ARI OINONEN
SILVANA LAKIC
0402 349 644
0412 241 888
dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
$400,000-$440,000
9792 5333 www.century21.com.au/dandenong
1 3 1 2 CAR BED BATH TOILET
Unit 1 @ 3 apple court doveton Ideal first home / investment. Painted inside & out, with new carpet, 3 bedrooms with BIR’s, bathroom with separate toilet, updated kitchen, spacious lounge, private backyard & carport. Terms 10% deposit 30 day settlement ARI OINONEN
SILVANA LAKIC
0402 349 644
0412 241 888
Unit 2 @ 3 Apple court Doveton
On Site Auction 11th September @ 12.30 pm
Cr Truong said. As of 24 August, 15 sites in Greater Dandenong were listed as Tier 2 exposure sites. For updates and more information on exposure sites, go to coronavirus.vic.gov. au/exposure-sites
AUCTION Mortgagee in Possession
AUCTION Mortgagee in Possession
2 3 2 2 BED BATH TOILET CAR
Cr Loi Truong has tested negative after his Springvale South milk bar was listed as a Tier-2 exposure site. 209156 Picture: GARY SISSONS
On Site Auction 11th September @ 12pm
$350,000-$385,000
9792 5333 www.century21.com.au/dandenong
2 3 2 2 BED BATH TOILET CAR
On Site Auction Ideal first home / investment. Internal repaint, new carpets, 11th September @ 12.30 pm 3 bedrooms with BIR’s, master has WIR & full ensuite. Sizeable lounge room & kitchen, 2nd bathroom & toilet, private yard & double garage close to all amenities. $400,000-$440,000 Terms 10% deposit 30 day settlement ARI OINONEN
SILVANA LAKIC
0402 349 644
0412 241 888
12508721-JW34-21
Registered nurse Emma at the Sandown drivethrough vaccine clinic. 247860 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS
12508720-BL34-21
Greater Dandenong’s Covid vaccination rate is lagging behind other parts of Victoria, according to official stats. As of the ABS data on 27 August, 43 per cent of the council area’s residents 16 and over had received their first jab. And just 24 per cent had a second dose. It is well behind the rest of the state’s figures as of 29 August, which are 55 per cent with a first dose and 34 per cent fully vaccinated. Neighbouring municipality Casey is also significantly behind the state average with 48 per cent and 28 per cent respectively. It comes despite efforts to roll-out more vaccines at Sandown Racecourse, such as a recently-opened drive-through centre. Monash Health south-east public health unit director Professor Rhonda Stuart said the drive-through was convenient for people with mobility issues. It also allowed for up to four people in a car to be vaccinated at the same time. “For some people, the convenience of being able to drive straight in off the Princes Highway and to get vaccinated without leaving the car might be enough of a motivation to finally make that booking. “Whatever the reason, bookings are now open at our Sandown Racecourse drivethrough vaccination clinic for both Pfizer and AstraZeneca, and the sooner everyone can get vaccinated, the sooner we can get back to normal.” Victoria and the rest of Australia are still months away from fully-vaccinated targets of 70 per cent and 80 per cent of eligible people. The state recorded 92 locally-acquired cases on 29 August – its largest of the current outbreak. The State Government has announced that the current lockdown will be extended indefinitely. Statewide, the largest unvaccinated cohorts are under-40s, which have only recently been eligible for Pfizer shots. It is also the largest cohort for active Covid infections in Victoria, with 483 out of the state’s 778 active cases (62 per cent). Four of the active cases are in Greater Dandenong, as of 29 August. A Dandenong North GP clinic and Monash Medical Centre’s emergency department are among the state’s 890 exposure sites. An infected case attended the ED’s ‘fasttrack’ clinic waiting room at Clayton on Saturday 21 August, 3.35pm-6.30pm. Anyone at the waiting room at that time must get tested immediately and quarantine for 14 days from the exposure, the Department of Health states. Also the ED’s triage waiting room is listed as a Tier 2 site, with some individuals classed as Tier 1 contacts being contacted directly by
9792 5333 www.century21.com.au/dandenong Tuesday, 31 August, 2021
|
12508722-HC34-21
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
A Greater Dandenong councillor went into brief isolation after his milk bar in Springvale South was named as a Tier 2 Covid site on Sunday night, 22 August. Cr Loi Truong says the first time he heard of the listing of his shop in Darren Street was a phone call from a friend. According to the Department of Health, an infected person visited the shop on Wednesday 16 August between 11:35am11:50am. Following the department’s Tier 2 advice, Cr Truong got a Covid test at Springers Leisure Centre the next day. He remained in isolation and closed his store until he received a negative test result on Tuesday 24 August, he said. Cr Truong, who re-opened his store by 11am, guessed that his store was visited by an infected customer. But he had not been contacted by the Department of Health to explain the listing. Since last year, Cr Truong has given out 31,000 re-useable cotton masks at the shop. Demand for the free masks has slowed in recent times, but Cr Truong still hands them out to the occasional customer who forgot their masks. “If they don’t have a mask, I ask them to wear one.” Customers have been scarce during Covid lockdowns, with trade down about a third, he said. He and his family are biding their time before they get Covid-vaccinated. They’re waiting for the Moderna vaccine in September because of its 94 per cent effectiveness,
STAR JOURNAL 7
LOOKING BACK 100 years ago 1 September 1921 Dandenong Show Grounds (Clow St) On Monday at the monthly meeting of the Dandenong Shire Council, the appended letter, which was received from the Hon Secretary of the Dandenong Football Club, intimated that a largely attended meeting was held recently (representing the various sporting bodies of Dandenong) to discuss the lease of the Dandenong Showgrounds, which is now due for renewal or alteration. The meeting expressed its strong opinion that full use has not been made of the show grounds in the past, and that it would be advisable to have some interest in the ground vested in a citizens committee. It was pointed out that the Agricultural Society has the lease of the grounds; that it uses the grounds on only one
Compiled by Dandenong and District Historical Society
or two days annually; and that it has the right to sub-letting to sports clubs etc. This position is deemed unsatisfactory.
50 years ago 31 August 1971 It was a real cool show They were “Cool” - 1800 of them and very, very peaceful. They were the kids who turned up to the first Freedom Dance, held in the Dandenong Town Hall last Saturday night to rock to Australia’s top “pop” group Daddy Cool. “They were the coolest, most beautiful people I’ve ever seen and they proved to me that Freedom is a concept which will work “said Steve Rivette, the man behind Freedom. Steve said there was not a hint of trouble at the dance and the eight or so “peace co-coordinators” had nothing to do all night. He added: “The main reason for the lack of
trouble was because the younger people in Dandenong believe that ‘Freedom is far out’ and they realise that violence would damage something that could become really great. It was probably the biggest crowd ever in the Town Hall and was everything I hoped it would be.”
20 years ago 27 August 2001 Site for our Southbank The former Dandenong stockyards has been touted as a possible site for a south-eastern equivalent of Melbourne’s Southbank precinct. Planning Minster John Thwaites said the Government had provided Greater Dandenong Council with $50,000 to investigate opportunities for the redevelopment of the former stockyards site.
5 years ago 29 August 2016 Sampey has her way on pool plan The Oasis pool’s future incarnation is officially up for discussion. The Journal reported on 12 July that the Dandenong aquatic centre could make a $50 million move to Dandenong Market under a confidential council plan. Councillor Maria Sampey let the cat out of the bag at the Monday 11 July Greater Dandenong Council meeting. At the Monday 22 August meeting, she successfully moved that before proceeding on any further planning and without nominating a preferred position, the council completes open consultation on the best site and desired features for the pool’s replacement. No timeline was put in place. CEO John Bennie said Oasis was getting beyond its useful life and a new aquatic centre needed to be planned for.
NEWS
Bearing the pain By Yousef Reyhani from Baha’i Community Greater Dandenong Sometimes the face we show to the world needs to be one of strength, despite the chaos we harbour beneath. The reality of our society is rapidly changing, faster than what we can adapt to. We are witnessing a catastrophic event, that not only challenges us in our physical and materialistic progress. But also, testing our spiritual and emotional tether to the core of our beliefs and values. We wish that none of this could have happened in our time. But it is not for us to lay the terms of how we want the world to respond to our wants and needs. But rather, we were gifted with the greatest tool to deal with the current unfortunate events. Adaptability to rapid change and our response to them. You see, we cannot tether with the flow of time and the dark turns it may take. But we can change our approach to it.
MESSAGE OF
HOPE It is painful. To witness such calamities unfolding right in front of our eyes. But we are seeing it, and we are lucky to witness it. We are at the edge of a global shift. Humanity is on the verge of awakening, and our actions through time and history determined how our future will take shape. Confused, scared, insecure and hesitant for change. Fear not, as we approach the gates of great revelations, mankind is slowly but surely coming to understand that we cannot progress alone. But rather, united we stand at the canyon of evil.
We must shed light on the lost souls that are left wandering around aimlessly looking for meaning. Those with great knowledge, power, and skills owe it to those who do not possess those qualities. Instead, spread the knowledge, educate the illiterate, and shed light into the darkness of deep forest despair and loss. Illuminate paths, that they may progress further in life and carry humanity through the mist of temptation from the material minds. We will fall and slip. But just because someone stumbles and loses their way, it doesn’t mean they’re lost forever. Sometimes, we all need a little help. Always remember - pain will make you stronger. If you allow yourself to feel it, embrace it, it will make you more powerful than you ever imagined. It’s the greatest gift we have: to bear ... pain without breaking. And it comes from the most human part of us: hope.
Pledged: AA keeps strong in lockdown By Cam Lucadou-Wells A Dandenong-based Alcoholics Anonymous group is reaching out to those suffering drinking problems during Covid. Alan from the Common Welfare Recovery Group knows full well the devastating impact of alcoholism on himself and his family. Before he joined AA, he realised he was avoiding his wife and kids to drink in the home garage. “I could see she’d leave me if I kept going.” Alan was a bit anxious to front up to his first meeting more than a decade ago. But he hasn’t looked back since, he says. He felt a common bond as he listened to fellow AA members. “They were telling stories which I could
relate to. It was like they were talking about me.” He’s now a switched-on husband and father to three children. “The first thing is accepting you’re an alcoholic and then finding the help. That’s what we’re here for. “We can help you get a better understanding of the problem. We’ve all been in the same boat as recovered alcoholics.” Members can choose to share or they can sit back and listen. But there is a benefit to getting things “off your chest”, Alan says. Often it’s the families that suffer more than the alcoholics. “They’re the ones who go through the trauma, while the alcoholic doesn’t recall what they’ve done. They’ve had a black-out. “The families think why can’t he just stop?
They don’t get that alcoholism is a disease and we can’t find a way out.” There’s no cure, he says. But the ongoing support of AA has been a great help. During Covid lockdown, the group meets for an hour on ZOOM online on Fridays, 6.30pm, with closed captioning for the deaf and hard-of-hearing. Members are missing the ability to chat and catch up face-to-face. So they are making an effort to ring each other and chat during the week, Alan says. Normally, the Common Welfare Recovery Group meets at St James Church, 55 Langhorne St, Dandenong on Fridays, 6.30pm. Meetings are free. Details: aamelbourne.org.au/ or 1300 22 22 22.
Group urges prep for safe swimming Royal Life Saving is asking all Australians with swimming pools to use the weeks before summer to check their pool fencing to protect young children from drowning. In the past decade, more than half of all children aged 0-4 who drowned in Australia lost their lives in a backyard swimming pool. Children who drowned often gained access to the pool area through a fence or gate which had fallen into disrepair or a gate which had been deliberately propped open. We know families are under a lot of pressure with lockdowns in place in many parts of Australia. 8 STAR JOURNAL
|
Tuesday, 31 August, 2021
The demands of constant supervision are exhausting. But close supervision is the best way to protect a child from drowning. Our research shows any distractions, such as using mobile phones or doing household chores, while children are near water increases their risk of drowning. A pool fence in good repair can give you precious minutes when a determined toddler unexpectedly wanders off towards the pool. Almost 40 per cent of child drowning happens over the summer months which is why
now is the time to get your backyard swimming pool prepared. Adults can access a free home pool safety checklist to make sure their pool area is safe and secure at www.royallifesaving.com.au/ stay-safe-active/locations/water-safety-athome We want all Australians to have fun in the water and stay safe this summer. Please take the time to do a backyard pool safety check – your actions today could save a child’s life. - Justin Scarr, Royal Life Saving chief executive
Gallery’s old ‘DNA’ revealed Art may be etched in the ‘DNA’ of Dandenong’s new contemporary art gallery . Dandenong New Art – which could be shortened to DNA – has been endorsed in principle by Greater Dandenong Council as the new name of the landmark in Mason Street. The under-construction regional venue is a redevelopment of the former Masonic Lodge. It will feature museum-standard exhibition spaces, a large contemporary extension spanning two floors, office space, terrace and space for possible retail or a cafe. “The architectural landmark has been redesigned to welcome and draw the community in and make contemporary art as accessible as possible, lifting the prominence of art in Greater Dandenong,” the council recently stated. The name idea is open to community feedback until 14 September. Submissions should be marked to the attention of the Coordinator Arts and Cultural Development. To comment, email arts@cgd.vic.gov. au or go to https://forms.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/new-gallery-namingproposal/ Alternatively, mail feedback to Greater Dandenong Council, PO Box 200, Dandenong VIC 3175.
The former Masonic Lodge being converted into a contemporary art gallery. 247858 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS
The gallery is expected to open in early 2022. 247858 dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
Aged home bans ‘above the law’ By Cam Lucadou-Wells A former Greater Dandenong councillor has accused a nursing home of acting “above the rules” with an indefinite Covid ban on her visiting 99-year-old mother in a nursing home. Maria Sampey has been helping care for her mother Vittoria Primerano who has advanced dementia at the TLC Noble Gardens aged care home. The ban was not imposed by the Chief Health Officer, but by TLC – which runs Noble Gardens aged care home as well as others across Victoria. As a ‘nominated person’ for her mother, Ms Sampey has an exemption to visit under the Chief Health Officer’s lockdown restrictions. However under a ‘TLC Coronavirus Taskforce’ email address on 21 August, TLC chief executive Lou Pascuzzi emailed residents’ families that its homes would be locked down “until further notice”. There would be no visitors except in “extenuating circumstances” such as palliative care. On 21 August, Ms Sampey, who had not previously seen the email, was shocked and reduced to tears when barred by staff from making her regular two-hour nightly visit. “I went outside and sat in my car and I started crying.” Ms Sampey says she’s worried about her mother’s condition in the meantime. She fears she’s been punished for filing a recent complaint to the federal Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission about the home. In a letter to Mr Pascuzzi, she states: “I know that my mum spends most of her time isolated in her room as she is non verbal and cannot complain and relies on your staff to hydrate her, which they do not always.” She said often jugs of water are still full when she visits her mother at night. “My mum being so thirsty that she would drink three glasses of water from me and it would take me close to an hour as she has problems swallowing. “Would your staff have the time? Of course not.” She told Star Journal: “These homes have to realise it’s affecting people with dementia and their families. “My stomach’s in knots, and they don’t care.” A TLC spokesperson said people wishing to visit could call in advance to “discuss the necessity of their visit with our General Managers”. It will be assessed on its merits and weighed against safety considerations.
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
Vittoria Primerano marks her 99th birthday with daughter Maria Sampey earlier this year. “Given the growing number of cases in the community, and the highly-infections nature of the COVID-19 Delta variant, TLC is taking every precaution necessary to strictly limit the number of visitors entering our homes. “This is a short-term measure, and TLC’s appropriate actions over the last 20 months have been instrumental in protecting our 11 large aged care homes against COVID-19; with none of our 1,600 residents, and 2,000 staff and contractors contracting the virus.” In a statement, the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission said it was seeking information from TLC about the matter. It stated the CHO directions excluded visi-
tors from care facilities but identify “specified exceptions” including the resident’s “nominated person”. “Residential aged care services are expected to comply with any specific restrictions on visitors’ access that apply in their jurisdiction as set out in public health or emergency management orders issued by the relevant state or territory government. “Where an approved provider is found to be non-compliant with their responsibilities, the Commission will take appropriate action to ensure that the provider addresses the noncompliance.”
Van ‘removed’ in faked carjacking By Cam Lucadou-Wells A removalist stole his boss’s van and then made up a story that he’d been carjacked, a court was told. Russell Whitmore, 37, was also charged with stealing his landlord’s leaf-blower in Beaconsfield and hawking it to a Cash Converters store. The landlord had earlier dropped off the leaf-blower and garden equipment for the share-house tenants to “tidy up the garden”, Dandenong Magistrates’ Court was told on 19 August. When the $269 leaf-blower went missing, the landlord found it at Cash Converters in Narre Warren. It had been traded in under Whitmore’s name for $60. Whitmore had just started working for a South East removalist business when his boss turned down his request to take the Hiace for a trip to Queensland. After doing a job in Brighton that morning, Whitmore called in to say he was driving the van back to the depot. That afternoon, he didn’t answer calls before claiming the van broke down on Thompson Road in Carrum Downs. dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
Jailed for carjacking crime spree
The boss sent his son to help but Whitmore and the van couldn’t be found. At a home in Cranbourne, Whitmore rang police to tell them he’d been carjacked 25 minutes earlier. He claimed he had broken down 10 kilometres away on Glasscocks Road. As he sat inside the van, he was threatened with a shotgun by three unknown “dark skinned” men. They forced him to lay on the road as they stole the Hiace, he said. With his phone out of power, he walked several hours to Cranbourne to call triple-0 – contradicting his earlier story he’d been carjacked 25 minutes earlier. Phone records showed Whitmore was in Cranbourne the whole afternoon, police told the court. Whitmore was also charged with assaulting a victim with a plastic pole and stealing most of their clothes in a Mont Albert motel car park in August 2020. He demanded money, and then the victim’s wallet and bank card. When the victim said he didn’t have them, he was told to “take off everything”. Whitmore grabbed the stripped man’s jumper, pants, shoes, a cable and charger, and
told him to “get the f*** out of here”. In just his underpants, the victim fled to a nearby 7-Eleven and asked a stranger for their phone to call police. Whitmore was also charged with a petrol drive-off in Narre Warren North, giving a false name to PSOs, resisting arrest and ice possession. A defence lawyer said Whitmore grew up in a dysfunctional home in Queensland. At a young age, the promising BMX rider became “inured” to drugs and crime. In Victoria, he found stability as a truck driver and family man until he succumbed to ice addiction. Whitmore’s performance on a recent CCO “leaves a lot to be desired”, his lawyer conceded. He had been remanded in custody since August 2020. Magistrate Greg Connellan disagreed with the lawyer’s submission that Whitmore’s 377 days in remand was “excessive”. The term was “not excessive but more than enough” for a “nasty” assault with a weapon, a car theft from an employer and a “serious” false report to police, Mr Connellan said. Whitmore was sentenced to 377 days in jail, which had been already served.
A Pakenham man has been jailed over a week’s “criminal rampage” including an aggravated carjacking, car thefts and burglaries. Mitchell Salmon-Urbani, 24, who was raised in Dandenong, was found guilty of the carjacking of a Ford XR8 ute in which a co-accused man Cori Harrison held up the driver with an imitation gun on 1 April 2019. He pleaded guilty to 18 other offences between 24 March and 1 April. On the final day, the pair led police on a wide-ranging pursuit after stealing a Colorado ute in Clyde. The pair deliberately torched the ute in Rowville and hijacked the XR8 in Carrum Downs.. At that point, Harrison pointed an imitation rifle at the driver and threatened to shoot him. The offenders fled from police in the Ford until they crashed into two cars outside the Settlement Hotel in Cranbourne. Salmon-Urbani was arrested carrying meth and a stolen driver’s licence, Bunnings trade card and bank card. Earlier that day, he committed two burglaries in Devon Meadows and Officer South and stole more than $14,000 of jewellery, phones, tablets, laptops, headphones, car keys, passports and cash. In sentencing on 20 August, Victorian County Court judge Anne Hassan said the carjackers showed a “complete disregard for the safety of the public” and must have caused “considerable fear”. The victims suffered a “long-lasting” toll, she noted. A burglary victim stated to the court that their home was trashed, dog traumatized and sentimental items lost. The car-jacking victim stated he suffered financially as he took time off work to recover from the life-changing trauma. Judge Hassan found Salmon-Urbani guilty of the car-jacking, noting he played a minor but “completely complicit” role in the hold-up. He was at least an equal player to Harrison during the rest of the crime spree including stealing a Ford Falcon, two Triton utes, and three TVs worth $9989 from two Good Guys stores in Narre Warren and Pakenham. He was suspended from driving and on a community corrections order at the time – as well as heavily addicted to meth and reeling from a break-up from his girlfriend. The judge noted Salmon-Urbani’s abusive, dysfuntional upbringing in which he started drinking and using drugs from age 10. He was also diagnosed with low IQ and ADHD-like symptoms. Judge Hassan said Salmon-Urbani’s intoxication during the car-jacking was a “significant factor” that precluded him from a mental impairment exemption. His co-offender was jailed for up to eight years and five months in July 2020 for more than 35 charges. Salmon-Urbani – who was being jailed for the first time – had a less extensive criminal history, Judge Hassan noted. He was imprisoned for up to six years and two months – with a four-year nonparole period. His 408 days in pre-sentence detention was included. Tuesday, 31 August, 2021
|
STAR JOURNAL 9
NEWS
Disability shortage By Cam Lucadou-Wells A “massive” job shortage is emerging in disability support work during the Covid pandemic. Dakorim Wokoma, of Noble Park, is one who is filling the need. It’s a role she does for the love of it. “I wanted to do a job with a purpose. “One thing that’s clear is if you’re doing it for the money, you’re not in the right industry.” However, finding applicants has become a challenge for service providers. In a bid to attract staff, service provider OnCall Australia has launched a free training course with a “guaranteed” job. The sector’s reliance on overseas workers has left a “massive shortage” during Covid, OnCall chief executive Laura Green. As migrant workers were unable to arrive in Australia, OnCall needed a “rapid injection” of new staff. Previously, applicants would have to pay for their own training. Now On Call provides it free of charge. “We recognised that most people have had a hard year so paying to get a job doesn’t make sense.” “If the people enrolled pass the training, they’ll have a job.” Training includes first aid, manual handling and disability support skills to a Certificate III or IV level. It’s followed by shadow-shifts with an experienced worker and mentoring on-the-job. “The disability sector has lots of work to be done. Many industries are getting smaller but
Disability support worker Dakorim Wokoma says the role requires empathy, passion and a listening ear. we’re getting bigger.” Ms Wokoma, a qualified electrical engineer, became a support worker so she could better understand how to care for her late disabled sister Ibifulo. The pair moved out from Nigeria in search of better disabled care and facilities. Ms Wokoma is studying a Masters in Cybersecurity but says she wants to keep working in disability support. “It’s challenging because each individual is different. “You have to have that level of empathy. You have to have a listening ear. And you have to bring out that love in you to support that client. “That person is putting their life in your hands.” Details: www.oncall.com.au/
OnCall chief executive Laura Green says there’s a “massive” shortage of workers due to Covid.
Rosewood’s new kinder A new 66-place kindergarten is set to be built at Rosewood Downs Primary School. The State Government will fund two kindergarten rooms, admin facilities and outdoor play spaces in Nature at the school in Dandenong North. The kindergarten, in partnership with City of Greater Dandenong Council, is expected to open in 2023. “I’m delighted that Rosewood Downs families are a step closer to getting the fantastic early years and school facilities they deserve – in one convenient location,” Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams said. Education Minister James Merlino said kindergartens on school sites made the transition to school easier for children in early education. From 2021, new primary schools will have a kindergarten on-site or nextdoor. The aim is to make them easier to access and drop-off times more simple. In its Three-Year-Old Kinder roll-out, the Government and the early childhood sector is co-investing $1.68 billion into building and expanding kindergartens. It is also spending $5 billion over the next decade for two fully-funded years of kindergarten per child – an Australian first.
FOCUS ON … YOUR HEALTH, YOUR IMAGE 59A Heatherton Rd, Endeavour Hills, 3802 Restore your smile with confidence
03 8772 2053 Dentures Bridges Implants
Visit our specialists to explore your treatment options Easy & affordable payment plans through
At Smiles First they are available to answer any questions you have and the choices.
Say ‘ahh’ to Smiles First “HAPPY GAS” is now available to reduce your anxiety & fear of dental procedures.
www.smilesfirst.com.au info@smilesfirst.com.au 12504990-DL31-21
10 STAR JOURNAL
|
Tuesday, 31 August, 2021
Have you ever wondered what your smile might look like if that missing tooth wasn’t missing? There are several ways to fill that gap with a “tooth” that looks and feel like your other teeth! A popular way to restore missing teeth is through dental implants. These are used as an alternative to dentures and bridges. Implants have many advantages, including their natural appearance, their convenience and ability to maintain bone mass - a quality that makes additional tooth loss far less likely. Dentures are another way to replace your missing teeth. Full and partial dentures are custom-made removable prosthetics that can replace all or several teeth at one time.
Today’s dentures are comfortable and aesthetically enhancing. A series of skillful steps are taken to ensure your dentures are fitting correctly, and for overall great oral health. Smiles First can provide you with all of these treatments under the one roof where they have specialist Prosthodontist who are specialized in helping you choose the best teeth replacement option. At Smiles First they are available to answer any questions you have and the choices that are available to address specific conditions. If you’re concerned about missing teeth and your options, feel free to give Smiles First a call on 8772 2053. dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
Hazara bomb fears By Cam Lucadou-Wells South East families have had their fears for loved ones in Afghanistan further rocked by terror bomb blasts outside Kabul International Airport. The Australian evacuation mission ended hours before the bombings killed nearly 200 people at the airport’s gate on 27 August including 13 US troops and locals desperately trying to flee the Taliban-run country. Barat Batoor, from the 16,000-strong Hazara diaspora in the South East, was shattered by the violence. But he expected it since the US negotiated to withdraw from Afghanistan, paving the way for a Taliban takeover. Islamic State had taken responsibility for the attacks. They and the Taliban were enemies but “two sides of the same coin”. “It’s the same ruthless Taliban, the same ruthless ideology who believe in violence, torture and killing, which are not in line with 21stcentury values. “I believe if they do change, their ideology will collapse.” Mr Batoor, a photo-journalist who fled for his life from Afghanistan in 2012, works as an organiser for Asylum Seeker Resource Centre. The Taliban’s true colours were already emerging ahead of the 31 August deadline for the US withdrawal, he says. He’d seen footage and reports of the Taliban beating and preventing Hazaras from reaching the airport due to their ethnicity. Others in fear of retribution for working for foreign powers and the UN have been stopped
at Taliban check-points and “disappeared”. Despite warnings of terror attacks, many were desperately braving the trip to the airport or fleeing to the Pakistan border. “It is like welcoming death if they go to the airport. “People are not knowing what to do. Things will get worse and people will suffer. It’s an uncertain situation.” Mr Batoor reiterated the call for the Government to boost its humanitarian visa offer from 3,000 to 20,000 places. He also called for permanent protection and family reunion visas to Hazara asylum seekers in Australia, who have had the threat of deportation hanging over their heads for up to a decade. On 27 August, Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced 4100 had been evacuated as part of the Australian mission from “one of the most dangerous places on Earth”. They included more than 3200 Australians and Afghan visa holders for Australia, he said. Foreign states had airlifted a total of 70,000 at that point. “Australia’s operations now for the evacuation have been completed. “We were able to ensure the departure of the remaining Australian personnel over the course of last night, not that long before the terrible events that unfolded last night took place.” Mr Morrison condemned the “evil”, “calculated” and “inhuman” attacks on the “innocent” and “brave” at Kabul airport.
Advice for refugees By Cam Lucadou-Wells
Barat Batoor has called for the Australian Government to extend its humanitarian efforts for Hazara refugees. The US troops had fallen in a “very worthy cause”. “These brave young Americans stood at that gate to protect life, to save life but lost their own in providing a pathway to freedom for others.” Foreign Minister Marise Payne said it was a “very distressing situation for Australians still in Kabul, for people with visas, and for family and friends who are here in Australia”. “Our new travel advice says Australian evacuation flights from Kabul have ceased.”
Agencies call for refugee action Dandenong support agencies are joining the call for more “compassion” for refugees from crisis-hit Afghanistan. Wellsprings for Women has written to federal MPs calling for the Australian Government to respond with “compassion and generosity”. The women-only group organised an online gathering with Foundation House, which treats refugees who experienced trauma and torture. “The session with Foundation House is for Afghan women to provide emotional support. This is a very difficult time for them,” Wellsprings chief executive Dalal Smiley said. Wellsprings also gathered services to help families wanting to sponsor fleeing relatives to come to Australia. “It’s a lot of work but we particularly feel for our community members who are un-
able to be reunited with their families.” Wellsprings provides services and programs for women facing social, cultural, economic and political barrier. Many come from refugee backgrounds. Catholic Social Services Victoria has called for a change of Government policy to allow Afghan refugees on temporary protection visas to apply for their families to come to Australia. “While the Australian Government continues to withhold the ability to apply for humanitarian family reunification for this cohort, this places their lives and families in a tenuous situation,” CSSV executive director Josh Lourensz said. “With the situation in Afghanistan fundamentally changed, Australia’s policies also need to fundamentally change.” Mr Lourensz was “willing to do more” for the increased refugee intake as a result, cit-
Afghan women with their English tutor at Wellspings for Women in Dandenong. ing Wellsprings’ actions as an example. “We admire the contribution and proactive efforts of member organisations like Wellsprings for Women that are offering support to the Afghan community in this difficult time.”
A Dandenong migration agent is offering free advice to evacuate immediate family members stricken in an increasingly desperate Afghanistan. Thay-Horn Yim said he was able to provide Afghan-Australians citizens and permanent residents with official information to help their family as well as interpreters and staff who assisted Australian and Western-allied forces. “There are specific instructions they have to follow and these instructions could change rapidly.” This includes the documents they need to take to Kabul International Airport, whether to lodge new or previously lodged applications and what to do if they receive or miss a call from Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs. Mr Yim also had information on what phone number evacuees must ring, how close to the airport before they ring and which airport gate to enter. He has offered a volunteer service through Refugee Legal in Collingwood for more than 15 years, but the dire situation in Afghanistan compelled him to do more. “I want to do extra now for this urgent need in the City of Greater Dandenong.” The Taliban had swept to power during the staged withdrawal of the US, Australia and allies. In the past week, thousands, including Australian citizens, have flocked to Kabul’s international airport after the withdrawal of US, Australian and allied forces led to the Taliban sweeping back into power. Many fear Taliban reprisals and are desperate to flee the country ahead of the US’s withdrawal deadline on 31 August. As you know I have offered this volunteer service through Refugee Legal in Collingwood over 15 years but want to do extra for this urgent needs for the City of Greater Dandenong. To contact Mr Yim, email thayhorn@ hotmail.com with your full name, your relationship to the relative in Afghanistan, your phone number and how far the relative is from Kabul airport.
Missing man found safe and well in Lysterfield Park By Danielle Kutchel A Langwarrin man who went missing in Lysterfield Park has been found safe and well. Search crews came across missing man Paul sitting on the shore of Lysterfield Lake around 11am on Tuesday 24 August. Paul had last been seen on Sunday 22 August at around 2pm, when he was dropped off at the park. SES and Victoria Police heralded the find as a great result for search crews and Paul’s family. SES Commander Bryce Wickham said crews had received a request to assist Victoria Police with the search on Monday 23 August, and had initially spent five hours scouring the park for any trace of Paul. Undaunted, on Tuesday the call went out again and 64 SES members from 19 units across the central region converged on the park to take up the search again. Crews worked systematically through the park, both on dry land and in the water, with three rescue boats brought in, a hill operating vehicle and multiple 4WDs on standby. Family members also walked Lysterfield’s tracks to aid in the search and the park was closed to visitors so as not to interfere with the hunt. dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
The SES crew that found Paul. 248501 George Katris, SES Deputy Controller for Port Phillip, was among the group that found Paul as they scoured the area by boat. Coming to the western side of the water, Mr Katris said he noticed Paul by the water’s edge “just sitting, soaking in the sun”. The SES crew quickly confirmed Paul’s
Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS identity by calling his name and checking him against the description they had been given. “Basically he was in the bushes for the last two days,” Mr Katris said. With no way to access the area save by boat or on foot, the decision was made to take Paul back to the opposite shore by boat, where he
was reunited with his family and taken to hospital for a check-up. “It was an amazing result, we were so wrapped that we found him,” Mr Katris said. “I’m so proud of my team – this is what we’re trained for and to put it into practice, and for it to be textbook, is absolutely amazing.” Peter Muys, Victoria Police Local Area Commander for the Yarra Ranges, said teams had been confident that as long as Paul had not entered the water, “there was every chance he would be alive” despite low overnight temperatures. Around 30-40 police members, including some from the search and rescue and canine squads, and the airwing, were deployed to assist with the search. They spent time tracking down every potential sighting in the hours before Paul was found. “We didn’t have anything further than that this is where he was last dropped off, that was all we had to go on,” LAC Muys said. He thanked the SES for their commitment and the “great work” they put in to finding Paul. “The credit goes to them for sure,” he said.
Tuesday, 31 August, 2021
|
STAR JOURNAL 11
FOCUS ON … FATHERS DAY
Check out these hampers Introducing Bourbon Brothers Australia, a local Cranbourne business shipping Australia wide. They offer the perfect gift for the dad that has everything, give dad the gift of Bourbon and Chocolate! There’s so much more to Bourbon than Jack and Jim! That’s the message that Bourbon Brother’s founder, Sean Chapman, wants to share. After living in the USA for 11 years, and working in the hospitality industry, Sean developed a deep passion for bourbon and it’s amazing history, and it’s one that he brought
with him when he returned to Australia. Launching Bourbon Brothers last year, Sean, a Cranbourne West resident, is introducing Australia to a whole new world of American Whiskey. For fathers day, check out the Bourbon Brothers gift hampers that not only include the best bourbons, but also premium chocolate from local chocolatier, The Ministry of Chocolate. Now that’s a perfect gift for Dad this year! Visit their website www.bourbonbrothers. com.au to see all the amazing options that will
make dad smile! Gift hampers also come with tasting glasses, coasters, tasting notes, access to exclusive tasting video’s and a “Beginners Guide to tasting Bourbon”. As a special deal for readers you can also receive free Auspost express shipping Australia wide until the 5th of September. Bourbon Brothers also offers subscription options for lovers of bourbon or the bourbon curious, shipped to your door every month, taking you on a journey of the best bourbons in the world.
Sean tells us, “We’re just a small local business sharing something that we are truly passionate about and with nothing but 5 star reviews on Facebook and Google, you can be sure that you’ll give a gift that will bring a smile!” Visit their website or checkout their socials to learn more Bourbonbrothers.com.au Facebook.com/bourbonbrothersaus Instagram.com/bourbonbrothersaus
· · ·
More in store: We’re here to keep your car running Having worked all my life in the Automotive Industry commencing as an apprenticed motor mechanic it was fairly straight forward for me with the assistance of my brother as silent partner to purchase my own Autobarn Store. In 2013 Autobarn Frankston was purchased followed by Autobarn Dandenong on the corner of Frankston Dandenong Road and Zenith Road, Dandenong South in 2018. To our customers Dandenong store provides a different facility to Frankston in that it has a huge car park to leave your precious wheels while you shop in a bright and roomy environment. Recently we appointed a new store manager Wayne Gould who has many years com-
prehensive knowledge in both the wholesale and retail industries. Wayne’s initial role is to assist our locally employed staff with understanding what our customer’s needs are and drive the business forward. Through the utilization of local and knowledgeable staff we aim to be on top of your list when it comes to you choosing us above our competitors, coupled with Autobarn’s claim of “top gear and low prices.” Furthermore with the uncertainty that Covid -19 brings we utilize Click and Collect as well as Call and Collect your shopping list for your convenience. We’re here to keep your car running. Open for Click and Collect. Purchase online or contact us on 9792 5835 and collect at store. - Franchisee Roger Wallis
We’re here to keep your car running, Autobarn, Dandenong.
FATHER’S DAY
FATHER’S DAY AT BATTERY ZONE Batteries for Everything
DELIVERING CHOCOLATE SMILES AUSTRALIA WIDE :) • Handcrafted gits from $45 • FREE Next Day Delivery Australia Wide • Same Day Delivery Available • Australian Owned • Gift Now Pay Later with Afterpay 12511217-CG36-21
Franchises available.
VOUCHERS AVAILABLE Shop online now and receive free express shipping Aus wide until the 5th of Sept.
Offering home delivery and click and collect! pakenham@batteryzone.com.au Ph: 5940 1364
www.bourbonbrothers.com.au 12511258-AV36-21
12 STAR JOURNAL
|
Tuesday, 31 August, 2021
12511019-AV36-21
dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
FOCUS ON … FATHERS DAY
Time to sample Exit These days when you walk into a bottle shop, there can be hundreds of different craft beers on the shelves. Many of our neighborhood bottleshops now have multiple fridges dedicated to craft beer. If you are a beer drinker, or perhaps like to peruse the shelves at your local, no doubt you’ve asked yourself, what are all these beers and where on earth have they come from?! Well, it really has happened quite quickly, and at a rate only outdone by billionaires going to space! In fact, when we released our first beer back in 2014, there were fewer than 300 breweries in all of Australia. Now, only seven years later there are almost 800! Then, if
you consider that each of those breweries is almost definitely making more than one type of beer (sorry VB!) … that’s a lot of beer! So how do we, Exit Brewing, a tiny outfit based in Melbourne’s southeast with a team of just four, carve our niche and do it differently than all of those other breweries you ask? Well, we try and keep it simple. Great quality, consistent, honest and real; really delicious that is. Brewer boss Grum is ex-IT (ahhhh!) and has a very numeric mind, so he has created quite a reputation for his beer recipes. After living abroad for many years and sampling every-
thing Europe and America had to offer, Grum has focused on creating beers that echo the traditional classics, but that are suitable for the Australian palate. He also likes dad jokes. We were recently awarded Victorian Brewery of the Year by The Melbourne International Beer Competition 2021 and Stout Brewery of the Year in 2020. If it sounds like it might be time for a quick Exit you can find our beers at your local craft beer supplier and all First Choice Liquor Markets. Exit Brewing, is situated at 10 Superior Drive, Dandenong South, 9131 6291.
We’ve got you covered this
Tailored made gift hampers A Dandenong South online business has the perfect ingredients to send out love – and comfort food – during Covid lockdown. With an array of indulgent chocolate bouquets and edible gift hampers, the times seem to suit Taste Buds and its online deliveries. During the pandemic, it has branched into further similar companies Hampers Galore and Healthy Essentials Australia. Hampers Galore offers luscious gift packages of snacks, chocolates with wine, champagne, beer or Moscato. They target a range of tastes and occasions, with products as lockdown survival kits, tradies snack hampers, and Moet Lovers pack. Healthy Essentials Australia delivers 1400 healthy foods and supermarket items
including vegan hampers, gluten-free hampers, household cleaning and laundry products, baby food, nappies and wipes. Since buying Taste Buds in 2019, husband and wife Ash and Sasha Hewawasam quickly refined and struck on a thriving formula. Its annual revenue soared from $800,000 to $3 million. With 40 per cent market share, it’s the second-largest online food hamper business in Australia. Peak times are the indulgent events on the calendar such as Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, Easter and Christmas. Half-metre chocolate Christmas trees are particularly sought. To order, call 1300 733 968 or got to tastebuds.com.au, hampersgalore.com.au or healthyessentialsaustralia.com.au
Eve, Alison, Grum and Jacob Knight are all looking forward to Father’s Day.
Father’s Day
$7.50
$14.95 $17.95
LYNDALE PHARMACY Gift hampers are tailored for Father’s Day offerings including combos of chocolates and snacks with tawny port, beer, bourbon or Scotch.
68 Menzies Avenue, Dandenong North 3175 Ph: 9792 1789 12509755-SN36-21
FROM $35 Includes your choice of Exit beer, beanie, a stubby holder and loads of beer swag!
12510908-JW36-21
LEGENDARY DAD PACK FROM MELBOURNE’S EXIT BREWING
Visit: exitbrewing.com.au | Ph: 9131 6291
We are a one stop shop for all your outdoor power needs with the very best brands on the market Stihl Gardening equipment in Petrol, Battery and electric options. Limited stock of Toro Ride on and push mowers. So get in fast for dad this Father’s Day”
dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
12510010-JW36-21
4/261 Princes Highway Hallam Ph 9702 4764 www.stilhshophallam.com.au
12510320-AV36-21
Call in and talk to the team
Tuesday, 31 August, 2021
|
STAR JOURNAL 13
NEWS
Afghans’ heartbreak
Less stress A new series of social scripts designed to reduce anxiety and assist autistic people getting a Covid-19 vaccination has been released by autism peak body Amaze, in partnership with National Disability Services (NDS). Autistic people may find the process of getting vaccinated against Covid-19 stressful. Attending a mass vaccination centre or GP for a Covid-19 vaccination is a new and potentially daunting experience, which may induce feelings of anxiety. Social scripts are story-based strategies using images and descriptions to explain new experiences and social environments to autistic people. The scripts have been designed to reduce uncertainty about getting the vaccine by clearly laying out the steps involved in the vaccine process. The scripts, which are the first of their kind in Australia, have been developed for autistic people with input from autistic people. However, Amaze chief executive officer Jim Mullan said anyone feeling uncertain about the process of getting a Covid-19 vaccination cpi;d use and benefit from the resources. “Giving autistic people the opportunity to prepare themselves for the vaccination process is extremely important,“ Mr Mullan said. “We developed these scripts to reduce anxiety for autistic people. The scripts are designed as a guide for autistic people to get vaccinated, allowing them to feel more comfortable with the process and preparing them for what they should expect. “New environments and situations can be challenging for many autistic people. We want to make that process less daunting, more inclusive and more accessible.“ Willow Metcalf, who assisted in creating the resource, said social scripts could be incredibly important for autistic people entering new situations. “As an autistic person, entering a new environment like a mass vaccination hub can be extremely overwhelming. “Just having the opportunity to read the script and see pictures of what it will be like, can make the process so much easier,” she said. The scripts will also help vaccine providers, both GPs and vaccination hubs, to provide a more accessible environment. “It’s important we ensure autistic people are able to get vaccinated as soon as they can,“ Mr Mullan added. “Many in our community are eligible for priority vaccinations and we hope the scripts will provide them with the confidence to go ahead and get vaccinated.“ The social scripts can be found at amaze.org.au/support/resources/covid19-vaccination-social-scripts-for-autistic-adults/ or by contacting the Autism Connect national helpline on 1300 308 699 to speak with an autism advisor.
By Danielle Kutchel The local Afghan community is hurting in the wake of the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan. Many of those living in Casey have loved ones stuck in the country, unable to leave and get to safety. Mothers, brothers, cousins, friends – regardless of the relationship, the story of heartbreak and worry is the same. Members of Casey’s Afghan diaspora met with community leaders and politicians on Wednesday 18 August via Zoom to air their grievances and discuss ways to get their families and friends out of the country. The meeting was organised by the Bakhtar Cultural Association. MPs Julian Hill and Pauline Richards attended, along with a representative for Holt MP Anthony Byrne. Steve Demopoulos, Parliamentary Secretary for Mental Health, Vivienne Nguyen, chairperson of the Victorian Multicultural Commission, Hafiz Mayar from Victoria Police and representatives of other community organisations joined the call. They fielded questions on evacuations and visa processing, while members of Casey’s Afghan community spoke of their terror at what might happen to their loved ones if they are left behind in Afghanistan. They also discussed the impact of the horrific news on their own mental health and how to help each other cope. For many who have fled the country, the Taliban’s takeover is bringing up memories of past trauma.
The State Government is seeking feedback on how drivers use Wellington Road. A survey has been opened for drivers and residents to say how they use Wellington Road and surrounding roads. The responses will inform the potential upgrade of Wellington Road between Napoleon Road in Rowville and Berwick Road in Narre Warren East. The Victorian Government is currently considering the upgrade, which would see Wellington Road duplicated to increase its capacity. Feedback from the survey will be considered as part of planning and development for the upgrade, as the government develops design options and confirms the project’s scope and cost. The Federal Government has committed up to $110 million towards the project. No delivery timeline on the project has yet been set. To complete the survey, visit https://engage.vic.gov.au/bigbuild The survey closes on Tuesday 7 September.
|
The State Government is seeking feedback on an upgrade to Wellington Road.
Raring to read: Children turn the page on lockdown By Danielle Kutchelr
com.au
14 STAR JOURNAL
The community agreed to push for an increase to the number of additional refugees the Federal Government would accept. So far the Australian government has rescued 1700 people from Kabul, with a priority on dual citizens. For assistance with visa matters, contact your local MP and for more Afghan community information or support, contact the Bakhtar Cultural Association via bakhtar.org.au/
By Danielle Kutchel
12452271-SN26-20
REAL ESTATE Email seren@starnewsgroup.com.au
Published by Star News Group Pty Ltd ACN 005 848 108. Publisher/Managing Director, Paul Thomas. All material is copyright to Star News Group Pty Ltd. All significant errors will be corrected as soon as possible. Distribution PROUDLY numbers, areas and coverage are estimates AUSTRALIAN OWNED & only. For our terms and conditions please visit INDEPENDENT www.starcommunity.com.au
Federal MP for Bruce, Julian Hill, told the call that Afghan visa applications are being escalated and said he was pushing for as many visas to be processed as possible. The Federal Government has pledged to take an extra 3000 refugees from Afghanistan, with families on the call urged to submit urgent visa applications including as much information about their loved one’s situation as possible.
Consultation open on Wellington Road
starcommunity.com.au CONTACT US Phone: 5945 0666 ADVERTISING Visit starcommunity.com.au/advertise Email advertising@starnewsgroup.com.au Phone 5945 0666 EDITORIAL Email dailyeditor@starnewsgroup.com.au
Visit networkclassifieds.com.au Email sales@networkclassifieds.com.au Phone 5945 0600
A family of evacuees from Kabul, Afghanistan arrive at Australia’s main operating base in the Middle East on board a Royal Australian Air Force C-17A Globemaster. Picture: LACW JACQUELINE FORRESTER / AUSTRALIAN DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
The library may be closed, but that doesn’t mean Children’s Book Week is cancelled. Casey Cardinia Libraries is getting into the spirit with a number of fun online activities for readers. Sarah Litchfield, team leader at Doveton Library, was among those getting into the spirit of the occasion by dressing up as Cruella de Vil. Passionate about children’s literature, Ms Litchfield said parents should begin reading to their children as early as possible to help with their language and literacy development. “It’s a beautiful way of bonding with a child as well,” she said. She said reading doesn’t necessarily need to be books – parents can pick out food labels
Tuesday, 31 August, 2021
on trips to the supermarket for example, to inspire kids to think about the words and what they mean. “Just reading and talking is the most important thing you can do,” she said. Chris Buckingham, chief executive officer of Casey Cardinia Libraries, said books could transport readers to different places. “Books are our passport to other worlds. It is so important during these disrupted times that children are able to exercise their imaginations through reading,” he said. “Children’s Book Week is an opportunity to celebrate reading with the young people our lives and help them navigate their way to happy spaces and places.” As part of Children’s Book Week, Casey Cardinia Libraries is giving young readers the
Sarah Litchfield encourages parents to read to their children. 247428 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS chance to win a variety of prizes. Children can dress up as their favourite character or design their own bookmark, and the winners will receive Robinsons Bookshop vouchers. For more information on Book Week at the library or to enter the competitions, visit cclc. vic.gov.au/cbca-book-week-2021/ dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
FOCUS ON … RETIREMENT
Keeping traditions strong Since adopting multiculturalism in the 1970s, Australia has become the most ethnically-diverse country in the world. One organisation warmly embracing this cultural shift is Regis Aged Care in Dandenong North. The Home offers activities and programs tailored to residents’ cultures and traditions. For instance, a fortnightly Euro Club unites residents for conversation over börek pastries and specially-brewed Turkish coffee. “Bringing the same cultures together helps us to make residents
feel more at home”, advises Regis Lifestyle Coordinator, Naomi Tangimama. The biggest impact is often felt by residents when carers go above and beyond to accommodate their individual needs. Shortly after moving into Regis Dandenong North in March, resident Olga Gagic asked for some knitting needles so she could continue her favourite hobby. The team offered a few different sets of needles but soon realised that Olga required a particular type made from repurposed umbrella spokes.
After searching around, Naomi was able to locate a pair through another Serbian resident’s family member, and Olga was thrilled. It’s easy to see why knitting is so important to Olga. Originally from a small village in Serbia, Olga’s family used to yarn and thread the wool from their own sheep. “My mother taught me how to knit with different techniques and I would take orders from our neighbours and make clothes,” she says. These days her favourite thing to knit is socks. Having made hun-
dreds of pairs over the years, Olga finds the process relaxing, productive, and creative. “I do it almost every day. I feel so happy and satisfied to see the work I have made with my own hands,” she says. Hearing this, it becomes very clear why keeping people connected with their culture is so important: these pastimes form part of a person’s identity and bring them immense joy. “Encouraging these activities makes such a huge difference in someone’s life” says Naomi.
VALLEY VILLAGE MEWS RETIREMENT VILLAGE 112 STUD ROAD DANDENONG
Need a rest and recharge? Come and be part of our warm and welcoming community while you settle in and enjoy the comforts of home. There’s something for everyone at Regis Dandenong North. We have relaxing spaces in our lounges and gardens to sit and read, chat with friends, or simply take it all in. We also have regular activities and events, such as arts & crafts, gardening, pet visits, exercise classes, Happy Hour, entertainers, and more.
Delicious, home-style meals are prepared fresh each day by our chefs and cooks. Find out how Regis Dandenong North can help you get the support you need. Give us a call on 1300 998 100 or pop in for a chat today.
REGIS DANDENONG NORTH 5 Bakers Road, Dandenong North Victoria
• • • • • • • •
Units available for sale now Purchase your unit by Strata Title Join in with Social Activities Keep fit with exercise programs Superb Parklands to take your pet and meet residents Emergency Call pendant Community Bus for shopping A village built around beautiful parkland
Phone: 9793 3354 Call 1300 998 100 Visit regis.com.au
villagemews@iinet.net.au
12473523-JW03-21
At Regis Dandenong North, we have short-term stays available for when you need to rest and recharge.
Fax: 9793 7154
www.valleyvillagemews.com.au
Call in to meet our friendly staff to show you why you should make Valley Village Mews your home. 12506450-LB36-21
dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
Tuesday, 31 August, 2021
|
STAR JOURNAL 15
FREE
DANDEN
ONG FEBRUARY
10, Tues 2021 \ day, STARWEEKLY 23 Marc h, 2021 .COM.AU
dandenong 12477071 -CG03-21
.starcom
EVERY WEEK Pick up your favourite local newspaper, the Dandenong Star Journal or Endeavour Hills Doveton Hallam Star Journal from local outlets listed below or subscribe to our digital edition and have it sent to your device every week!
JAf £ fn¹Ǥ
munity.c
om.au
/Dandenon
gJournal
A WORL
@StarJo
D OF
urnal_SE
fine food
40¢ Inc.
GST
Photos te your stor ll ies
Wyndham to enter an residents are being invited which aims amateur photo comp to showcase etitio together how local n durin s came Non-profi g the COVID-19 for Australast group, Bridge Buildpandemic. Wyndham ia (BBFA), is runn ers ing the Stronger 2020 & Beyond, You, Together Me, comp by Manor Lakes Com etition, supported initiative muni ty Fund, of the an BBFA presi Dennis Family Corporatio dent Melb the group n. a Waug document organised the phot h said o contest how Wynd a community to ham stood The comp during the pand strong as residents etition, for Wynd emic. aged 18 ham to images and older , whic is open hope, coura h tell a visua l story of or patience ge, innovation, resili and must ence between January 2020have been taken No digita and Marc l phot Cash prize o editing is allow h 2021. on March s are on offer. Entried. 31. es close Details: wixsite.co https://bbfaustralas m/mysite Australas , Bridge ia. Builders ia for wyndham@ on Facebook or email bbfa gmail.com .
This photo of Marbie, taken in a Hoppers Crossing backyard, has been submitted to the comp Melbourn etition. (Suppl e ied) free, famil Food and Wine y-friendly Festival’s Fare retur largest ns this monevent, Dandenon and trade g World incredibly important th delighting rs alike. to us,” customers ket general mana Dandenon ger Jenni Dandenong Marg Market “We hold fer Hibb of world ers are ready will host s said. an array street food By Ales a celebration tivals every to welco of colou Marc into me Cap and h, fromha opportuni year, but World rful cultural fes- their their homes by offer the community 10am toone culture on Sund 4pm. Fare gives ay 28 ty to celeb back of rich cultu The even ing together Some rate natio us ral history. a plate inspired the t will comm in harm tionalitiesWyn “There’s “is behav nalities work the dham counemorate by over many cultures we’ve with fire for their she said. the last 12 ing Melbourn nowhere quite multiple Dand ing likeony,” authenticcillors have a petul a jam-p na- enjoyOtheenon ant child”. months,” felt so isolated from beha like Dand hawker style e’s multi g Mark come unde acked sched rs liken viour durin at a publi et is inviti diverse mun said Ms Hibb Pop-up rovin cultu enon ed the ment tastes and g a heatedishe showthe meeting ule meet to and a cchan of rovin ng visito s, r still icipality,” ral heart is our g … tradit . “Som s. g performan d deba theStock sounds ing eone pass rs to Dan Councillor ce tolast stayin ional acqusaid. ket Stree te most of the their ces inclu winTuesd isition of Herald Sun food g close ay.g entertainthe popc The a Dand s have rite gover t Food Tour. worldfavou ding the dance and haka, the colou to home deba been descr like child the site for while enong Mar- will celebrate orn”. edito te erupt “And its t . Worl rful Chin Dandenonren and rhyth Szatkowsk the ibed as beha Mark d Fare 2021 ofEduc nmen ed schoo a future r scattered flavo et sine when l; is by urs g, being and i thisation the vibra by ‘heroing’ state splitt all throumic African drum ese lion attempted of internatio which is viewers watch for coun Cr Robe ent natio globa a “petulant ving fare moti nt melti Mini l villag home cil to s will the Markto split on, put forw nalities, stere.Jame nal cui- rt a multi ngwrite ing the to 156 differ broadcast child fivefrom pointto event. ing the motighou Dand It also et’s own a notic -ethn diver s Merl Austr around the enon ard by Cr on t the Market during be ic smor stated se municipa live onis Faceb Cr alia’smeet ino. g stree e ing as it - ” vend feast. separ Mark Szatk of that most gasbo t world Josh food ” ort ate motions et is The ors as done supp owski has and raised conc culturallywas rd shou lovesAt ook. Gilligan, rather than one pointlity - some upon erns the for the site council to celeb et dollarsMark for in previ The “received which to event into that ld reiter dition coun casua rate. mayor thing the Mark advis Nom motion conc of follow to remain ous force cillor that al Mark donahas l ate its Tarn will inate ed that thousand years coun s to vote on. Adele Hege tions d shou et days, erned “Beindgto et will as . interject. a Road cil Unlik outsi site from picks one s lyof a cludi able de-on , for eit e each ofland strict Covid of Broad whic be featu the state for this year’s ld rema tradich was a school; ng a linke the over h was The debat to share and at 203 Woo the tasty desigdnated ring sheet’s top to this in “conc earm reliance ofMelbourn a dish of aay one-d motion”. Safemem e prese Cr tradersds Festiv planber arked future nonevent that five Terra Dandenon ce,Szatk in-of the private the-CG13-21 landal,and will be 12487676 foravaila e Fooderned abou seated area owsk incre pronuncia deteriorated into rve culture is constble gover will asd i clean Dand g Mark stateding,the ructi Trug only at a matt sectorand be as fundeliv nmen Wine t statio on The enon foron to acqu ns er prom t schoo schoolsetin g Worl accusation tion of a councillor bickering over Afteranina ofadhe and Precinct Struc donations a consider as iteris filling ises its hand publirence ire requi d Fare. l under the to“Wor c recor Wyn Gillig of ’s name, and As tough 2020 . are , moreture dhamevent ld Farehow reme an to He thensanitising ”; and nts. “pronounc tod.physi thanPlan.food “I’m appa abusive language being not this an the reported by Star s of ticstage onlymay dishe asked celebrelate e my surnacal dista ncing Afterngtryin Scho s ofthe Weekly 20 Cr Parki Victo rates to our ols4W comments lled by behaviour used. future much theany The in Septetradme correctly”. is free g toallsay yndh authe -love moti rtuni amrs, Tribunal rian Civil and twice made by mber, oppo nd trade Crbut onrelish day, ty to advo Szatk also in Find, Cr has given viewer stated Gillig undertake some peop , tone and owsk seats called it’scacy. Adm more also an i’s are inistr the for informatio surna instead addr an quen limite to divide firsttly le tonight”, a strategic sightsthe name andcoun n and answ the site intothe developer perm ative look at . quest essed him d.me asked cil soun “Communi . one the ers toby ission plann how it could planning revie dsto mark 227 resid Aset.co ions at www Catholic his them.au fredeba/even like adults” ty are interested w to put in place te conti ing .dand in adults behav agreement Education Offic ential lots, after wrote anoth nued t/wor , Cr eSaha enongld-far stronger raised a point e pulle for non- controls arou to build er, and ing
Council ‘soap op era’
nd sites of order na Ramesh governmen a school there d out of an of “using Cr Gillig accusing desig infrastruc t schools Cr Gillig Sarah Connan’s motion called . ture. and comm nated chamber”. abusive language for in the coun an unity olly to be Cr asked to publiTarneit MP origi Gilligan descr The mayo cil ibed the r said she nal notic cly support was chan did He quest e of motion as “ridic ges to his you said, “but if there not hear exactly ioned Cr what was please refra Szatkowsk ulous”. in from usingany language, can i’s motives Coun it again”. for separ cillors voted on ate motions. Cr Szatk owski’s five All were passe d.
that one coun cillor
NOW OP
12480371
-DL06-21
455 Balla
Shop T3A, Manor Lake Manor Lakes Cent ral E: lawule@g s (Next to Man or Lakes mail.com Medical P: 0433 Centre) 572 664
n Road,
EN YOUR FIN STORE FOERASIAN FOOD GROCERY ALL YOUR NE WE STOCK EDS. THAI, FILIP INO, BUR CHINESE AND
MESE, MANY MOR KOREAN, E!
Pick up your FREE newspaper from these local outlets... • Dandenong Coles Express 61-65 Cheltenham Road • Dandenong United Service Station (Pie Face) 100 Cheltenham Road • Dandenong Dandy Mart 17 Cleeland Street • Dandenong Dandenong Market 40 Cleeland Street • Dandenong Dandenong RSL 44-50 Clow Street • Dandenong India Bazaar 77 Foster Street • Dandenong Dandenong Oasis Heatherton Road & Cleeland Street • Dandenong Dandenong IGA 78-84 Hemmings Street • Dandenong Dandenong Neighbourhood House 34 King Street • Dandenong Well Springs for Women 79 Langhorne Street • Dandenong Remax Real Estate Shop 14, 30-32 Langhorne Street • Dandenong Bestway Supermarket 200-208 Lonsdale Street • Dandenong City of Greater Dandenong 225 Lonsdale Street • Dandenong Creston Real Estate 264 Lonsdale Street • Dandenong Hall & Partners First National 254 Lonsdale Street • Dandenong Drum Theatre Lonsdale Street & Walker Street • Dandenong Dandenong Plaza 23-55 McCrae Street • Dandenong Coles Supermarket 23-55 McCrae Street (Dandenong Plaza) • Dandenong Rockyz Mini Mart 10 Princes Highway • Dandenong LH Fresh Supermarket 169 Princes Highway • Dandenong Caltex Dandenong 154-156 Princes Highway • Dandenong Coles Supermarket Dandenong 23-26 Princes Highway • Dandenong Genesis Fitness Club Dandenong 63 Scott Street • Dandenong Valley Village Mews 112 Stud Road • Dandenong Dandenong Basketball Stadium 270 Stud Road • Dandenong Caltex Star Mart Stud Road & Heatherton Road • Dandenong Dandenong Lotto 308 Thomas Street • Dandenong Gulistan Supermarket 187-189 Thomas Street • Dandenong Quest Hotel 2-Oct Walker Street • Dandenong McLennan Real Estate First floor, 126 Walker Street • Dandenong North Foodworks Dandenong North 42-44 Brady Road
• Dandenong North Dunearn Pharmacy 11a Dunearn Road • Dandenong North Coles Express 166 Heatherton Road & Stud Road • Dandenong North BP Service Station Heatherton Road & Stud Road • Dandenong North Dandenong North Senior Citizens Club 41a Latham Crescent • Dandenong North FoodWorks Menzies Cellars 52 Menzies Avenue • Dandenong North Menzies Milkbar 64 Menzies Avenue • Dandenong North IGA Friendly 54 Outlook drive • Dandenong North Liberty Fuel 182 Stud Road • Dandenong South Georges Lunch Box 22a Amberley Crescent • Dandenong South BP Service Station 175-187 Greens Road • Dandenong South Lunchmaster 3/491 Hammond Road • Dandenong South Kirkham Road Milk Bar 102 Kirkham Road • Dandenong South Woolworths Supermarket 81-125 Princes Highway • Dandenong South Shell Service Station 50 South Gippsland Highway • Dandenong South United Petroleum 314 South Gippsland Highway • Dandenong South Caltex Service Station 275-295 South Gippsland Highway • Dingley Village Dingley Village Newsagency Shop 2/79 Centre Dandenong Road • Doveton Doveton News and Lotto 7 Autumn Place • Doveton Platinum Realty - Doveton 27 Autumn Place • Doveton Bottle O 2-Apr Linden Place • Doveton Shell Service Station 48 Princes Highway • Endeavour Hills Endeavour Hills Shopping Centre Cnr Heatherton Road & Matthews Flinders Avenue • Endeavour Hills Woolworths Service Station Cnr Heatherton Road & Matthews Flinders Avenue (Endeavour Hills Shopping Centre) • Endeavour Hills O’Brien Real Estate Shop PS 5A Cnr Heatherton Road & Matthews Flinders Avenue (Endeavour Hills Shopping Centre) • Endeavour Hills Coles Supermarket Cnr Heatherton Road & Matthew Flinders Avenue (Endeavour Hills Shopping Centre • Endeavour Hills Woolworths Supermarket Cnr Heatherton Road & Matthew Flinders Avenue (Endeavour Hills Shopping Centre • Endeavour Hills 7 Eleven Endeavour Hills Cnr Heatherton Road & Power Road • Endeavour Hills Endeavour Hills Milk Bar 13 Gleneagles Drive • Endeavour Hills Endeavour Hills Medical Centre 61 Heatherton Road • Endeavour Hills Liberty Service Station 13-17
Heatherton Road • Endeavour Hills Ocean Blue Milk Bar 90/92 John Fawker Drive • Endeavour Hills Nicholls Gledhill Real Estate 2 Raymond McMahon Boulevard • Eumemmerring Atura Hotel May-17 Doveton Avenue • Eumemmerring Caltex Woolworths Service Station 40/44 Princes Highway • Eumemmerring BP Service Station 60-64 Princes Highway • Hampton Park Hampton Park Library 26 Stuart Avenue • Keysborough Caltex Keysborough 248 Cheltenham Road • Keysborough Parkmore Shopping Centre 317 Cheltenham Road • Keysborough Barry Plant Real Estate Shop 1,320 Cheltenham Road • Keysborough 7 Eleven Keysborough 309 Cheltenham Road & Cnr Kingsclere Road • Keysborough Woolworths Supermarket 317 Cheltenham Road (Parkmore Shopping Centre) • Keysborough Coles Supermarket 317 Cheltenham Road (Parkmore Shopping Centre) • Keysborough O’Briens Real Estate Shop 6, 317 Cheltenham Road (Parkmore Shopping Centre) • Keysborough City of Greater Dandenong Shop A07, 317 Cheltenham Road (Parkmore Shopping Centre) • Keysborough Michaels IGA 466 Cheltenham Road • Keysborough Keysborough Learning Centre 402 Corrigan Road • Keysborough Foodworks Keysborough 285-289 Corrigan Road • Mulgrave Waverley Gardens Shopping Centre 271 Police Road • Noble Park Sandown Park Hotel Corrigan Road • Noble Park Coles Supermarket 1 Douglas Street • Noble Park Noble Park Newsagency 22 Douglas Street • Noble Park Harvey Real Estate 26 Douglas Street • Noble Park Century 21 Real Estate 38 Douglas Street • Noble Park Ray White Real Estate 42 Douglas Street • Noble Park Caltex Woolworths Heatherton Rd & Chandler Highway • Noble Park Noble Park RSL 1128 Heatherton Road • Noble Park Lucky Star Lotto 1268 Heatherton Road • Noble Park Cellarbrations 3 Leonard Ave • Noble Park Noble Park Aquatic Centre 9 Memorial Drive • Noble Park Noble Park Community Centre Memorial Drive (Ross Reserve) • Noble Park Noble Park Bowls Club 56 Moodemere Street • Noble Park Barry Plant Real Estate 390 Princes Highway
• Noble Park Harrisfield Milkbar 519 Princes Highway • Noble Park North Halton Road Milk Bar 65 Coolavin Road • Noble Park North Jan Wilson Community Centre Halton Road (Barry J Powell Reserve) • Noble Park North Jacksons Road Service Station 139 Jacksons Road • Springvale Century 21 Real Estate Shop 5-6/64 Buckingham Avenue • Springvale Springvale Shopping Centre 46-58 Buckingham Avenue • Springvale KFL Supermarket 46-58 Buckingham Avenue (Springvale Shopping Centre) • Springvale Waltzing Matilda Hotel 856 Heatherton Road • Springvale Springvale Learning & Activities Centre 1 Osborne Avenue • Springvale Springvale RSL 23 Osborne Avenue • Springvale Caltex Woolworths Springvale 102 Police Road • Springvale Aobao Milk Bar 106 Police Road • Springvale Savemore Supermarket 774 Princes Highway • Springvale Coles Supermarket 825 Princes Highway • Springvale Sundowner Caravan & Cabin Park 870 Princes Highway • Springvale Springvale Neighbourhood House 46-50 Queens Avenue • Springvale Biggin Scott Real Estate 363 Springvale Road • Springvale Raine and Horne Real Estate 236 Springvale Road • Springvale Woolworths Supermarket 302 Springvale Road • Springvale Springvale Newsagency 321 Springvale Road • Springvale Springvale Library 411 Springvale Road • Springvale City of Greater Dandenong Customer Service Centre 397-405 Springvale Road • Springvale South Southvale Newsagency 565 Springvale Road • Springvale South Koh’s Marketplace 162-170 Athol Road (Athol Road Shopping Centre) • Springvale South BP Service Station Springvale Road & Clarke Road • Springvale South Springvale Plaza Pharmacy and Tattslotto 3/800 Heatherton Road (Springvale Plaza) • Springvale South BP Springvale 974 Heatherton Road • Wheelers Hill Mulgrave Country Club Wellington Road & Jells Road
Scan this QR code to Subscribe for FREE now! Or visit: starcommunity.com.au/subscribe 202103168430_1-DL13-21
16 STAR JOURNAL
|
Tuesday, 31 August, 2021
dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
networkclassifieds.com.au Trades & Services
www.networkclassifieds.com.au
Place your ad in print and online
V Deadline
V Trades Business Profile
V Fencing & Gates
SUPPLY ONLY TRADE & DIRECT TO PUBLIC
Placing your classified advert is so easy...
Unbeatable Prices on:
V Builders & Building Services
trical J.L. Hutt ERVleICcE
Building
24 HOUR SE
& Maintenance service
Established 1989
C698645-JM13-9
Extensions - Renovations - Bathroom Refurbs & Shopfitting
Jason 1300 64
Phone Des: 0419 541 719 A.H. 9705 2463
AFFORDABLE HOME EXTENSIONS
l Specia on Pricesers Sleep
SAXON FENCING Palings, Pickets, Colorbond Fences & Gates Prompt and Reliable Service
Phone 0419 775 259 or 8751 4016
“Since advertising in the local Dandenong Journal our enquiries have increased immensely and we continue to get great results” ă 'DPLDQ
C1101420-JO46-13
ALL TYPES OF GATES & FENCES • Automatic & Sliding • Ballustrading • Pool & Garden Fencing FREE QUOTES
• 9791 9877 • 0411 636 400
Advertise with us and get better results
CALL:
V Furniture Removals
A & F CONCRETING • SPECIALISING IN ALL TYPES OF CONCRETING/ CONCRETE PATTERN, SLABS • FOUNDATIONS ETC. • ALL DOMESTIC & INDUSTRIAL NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL FREE QUOTE ANY TIME RING 9700 4378 C63804-BG25-8
G5790601AA-dc18Feb
QUALITY HOME CONCRETING No job too big or too small Free quote • Compare our prices!
9795 4247 0407 324 768
Dandenong Electricians
t 6OJU 4JUFT t (BSBHFT t %SJWFXBZT t 1FSHPMBT t 1MBJO $PMPVSFE t 4MBUF *NQSFTTJPO t 'BVY #SJDL t &YQPTFE "HHSFHBUF
g All Pricin t Up-Fron
Phone Andrew on
0408 585 508, 5998 1127 Support your local tradesman for ALL your concreting needs!
V Drafting
All Types of Domestic & Commercial Work
★
Lighting Power Points Phone & Data Hot Water And more...
9999-8193 w w w . S e r v i c e To d a y. c o m . a u
★
V Heating
Hot winter specials
We NEVER
Lic No. REC 30504
24 HOUR SERVICE
Pre-winter Service Specials extended till 1/9/21
(Terms & conditions apply)
Pensioner Discounts
Close
J.L. Hutt Electrical
Jason 1300 644 698
Call Chris: 0416 079 689 - 5940 7264
PHONE FOR OBLIGATION FREE QUOTATION
9707 5700, 9768 9153
SERVICING DANDENONG AREA FOR OVER TEN YEARS
V Electricians
L&L ELECTRICS
• Local, Country & Interstate • Antiques & Pianos a speciality • Cartons & Porta-robes for hire or sale • Full packing available
yes we can
DRAFTING All residential houses, extensions, garages and carports. Phone BARRY 9704 0148 After 6pm
AND STORAGE
Call Us Today For our FAST FRIENDLY SERVICE!
Employment section of Network Classifieds.
12502998-JW28-21
V Concrete Products & Services
Andrew Craven Concreting www.andrewcravenconcreting.com.au
12438941-CG04-20
Reg. Builder CDB-U52728 & DBU 6442
LEIGH HUNTER REMOVALS
V Electricians
C1085227-JO32-13
HBL CONSTRUCTIONS PTY. LTD.
V Concrete Products & Services
12451041-LB24-20
DBU 6442
Phone Harry 0412 107 629, 9796 9988
12463529-LB40-20
C62885-BG24-8
504483
12393415-RA30-18
3ODQV DQG SHUPLWV DUUDQJHG %DWKURRP PDNHRYHUV ZLQGRZV DQG GRRU UHSODFHPHQWV ,QWHUQDO ZDOOV UHPRYHG SODVWHULQJ DQG EULFNOD\LQJ
Call 1300 666 808
Let us take the worry out of extending your home with over 30 years’experience
4 698
G6102263AA-dc17Jun
Commercial & Domestic
Rec : 17824
all Specialising in efurbishment s • Entensions/R ations y Switches Electrical Install Upgrades /Safet • Switchboard E QUOTES FRE small • House Rewires CC TV No Job too big or & • Phone /Data/ TV Repairs l.com.au ica ctr te ele Pla utt t jlh Ho ww w. • Oven & ce Repairs • Hot Water Servi s • Security Alarm s • AC Installation
1198421-ACM37-15
Hampton Park
1152285-PB36-14
12435758-CG03-20
Speak to our classified team and find out how easy it is to advertise. Start building your brand today and be seen every week in Network Classifieds Trades and Services.
From plumbers to pest control, carpet cleaning to building services, dry cleaning to computer repairs, lawn mowing and more, Network Classifieds has been connecting local businesses with the local community with our Trades and Services each week.
Ask about our discounted ongoing advertising rates and how choosing more newspapers gives your advertising more impact and saves you money...
A H FENCING & TIMBER PTY LTD
TRADES & SERVICES
VISA/MASTERCARD/EFTPOS (1.5% credit card processing fee applies. Cheques and money orders can be posted in or hand delivered to our local office)
12481388-NG07-21
We accept payment by:
Grow your business with
(include your name, address and phone number)
Deadline for all classifications is 3:30pm Friday.
1167287-PB50-14
Online: networkclassifieds.com.au (24/7) Phone: 1300 666 808 (Open 8.30-5pm Mon-Fri) Email: sales@networkclassifieds.com.au
PIC: 38148 REC: 17042 AU: 06212
Gas Ducted Changeovers Split Systems Ducted Refrig
9702 4410 FAIRBAIRNS HEATING & COOLING www.fairbairns.com.au Est. 1982
Place Your Classified Ads Online Your advert will appear in print and online! dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
Tuesday, 31 August, 2021
|
STAR JOURNAL 17
Trades & Services
General Classifieds V Massage Therapists
V Tree Lopping/Surgery
Steve on 0407 704 213
HIGH TREE
BRIVIS / VULCAN / BONAIRE / BRAEMAR Specialising in air conditioning and heating
TREE SERVICE ABN 20 410 687 524
Winter Special
25%
OFF
Credit Card Welcome
THIS MONTH ONLY
PLUMBING & HEATING
LIC. 33033
FREE QUOTE
rakruyt@aol.com
Find us on Facebook
Rick Kruyt
1 HOUR EMERGENCY PLUMBING
Pensioner discounts available
ESTABLISHED 30 YEARS STANDARD RATES ON WEEKENDS gjlawplumbing.com.au 7 DAYS 0419 136 181 - 0419 136 151
Contactless Quotes & Services Available!
C695870-JM11-9
FOUNTAIN GATE PLUMBING
Lic 24754 • New Houses • Factories • Blockages/Machine and Camera • Same Day Hot Water Services • Domestic and Commercial Maintenance • 3.5 Ton & 12 Ton Excavator • Bobcat and Tipper
9796 8621 0418 367 017
$20 MILLION INSURANCE
10% discount on hot water service installations if you mention this ad.
Call Now 0417 128 536
No Job Too Small
1172347-DJ07-15
☎
Roof Restoration Specialists
đŏ ((ŏ(! 'ŏ.!, %./ŏđŏ ++"ŏ /$%*#ŏđŏ ++"ŏ %*0%*# đŏ (!4%ġ,+%*0%*#ŏđŏ % #!ŏ0%(!ŏ.!ġ ! %*# đŏ ((!5ŏ $ *#%*#ŏđŏ 100!.ŏ (! *%*#ŏ".+)ŏĸāĂĀ đŏ ((ŏ05,!/ŏ+"ŏ.++ü*#ŏ * ŏ .,!*0.5
12447720-LB18-20
One call, We do it all!
ZZZ QHWZRUNFODVVL´HGV FRP DX
Real Estate
★ NO BOND
Professional Services
ANTENNA MAN
8502 6037 or 0479 181 177 After hour appointments available Springvale South
SAME DAY SERVICE
Office Hours Mon-Sat 8am-6pm. Sunday 10am-4pm 870 Princes Highway, Springvale
Please also visit our website: www.unitingvictas.org.au/careers/ Caravan & Cabin Park
NEED NEW STAFF?
Find it in the
Trades & Services
ZZZ QHWZRUNFODVVL´HGV FRP DX
Employment section of Network Classifieds.
OPEN 7 DAYS • 9132 5073 Unit 2, 1 Stephenson Street, Pakenham info@bondradiology.com.au • www.bondradiology.com.au
V Adult Services
ADVERTISE
Rainbow Dolls
with us and get better results
Oakfern Tree Care P/L Pruning Removal Stump Grinding
1235322622-PB22-17
Call 0432 550 066 or 8707 5522 V Tree Lopping/Surgery
Phone Geoff 0418 340 825 Fully Insured |
Fulton Hogan are currently looking for people experienced in Sewer and Water Construction for the following positions:
General Classifieds
Free Quotes
Tuesday, 31 August, 2021
Use code: EMPDISC
Fill your position online
section of Network Classifieds.
V Positions Vacant
12501151-NG26-21
C1072232-JJ4-13
All Bathroom Renovations • Bathrooms • Toilets • Kitchens • Decks • Water proofing • Walls and Floors
Get 10% Discount
Call Paul on 0407 552 707
Bulk Bill Low Dose CT, Digital X-ray, Ultrasound, Digital Dental X-ray & Dexa Scan QR code for easy online booking system
ECONOMY TILING
Call Pauline on 0466 921 547 or email pauline.byne@vt.uniting.org to express your interest.
Ph 9546 9587
Must be able to start ASAP.
NON CORPORATE RADIOLOGY IMAGING CLINIC ESTABLISHED BY A CARING & COMPASSIONATE TEAM
12469374-CG46-20
V Tiling
C316291-KK18-5
Singles Cabin - Bed Sitter (incl Kitchen) Caravans (ensuite) Caravans (no ensuite) Quiet secure park Close all facilities
V Professional
DIGITAL ANTENNAS AMPLIFIERS TV OUTLETS
0409 888 228
A relevant qualification (minimum Cert IV) in Child, Youth and Family Intervention (Residential and Out of Home Care) or equivalent, or a willingness to undertake top up training. We are looking for mature, motivated, empathetic and resilient workers with a commitment to working with and caring for children and young people in the Gippsland region.
NO LEASE ★
V Medical
HIGHLY EXPERIENCED TECHNICIANS ANTENNA SERVICE ALL AREAS
18 STAR JOURNAL
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Required for casual /full time position. Working out of South East suburbs carting pre cast concrete panels. Avg 40-50 hours per week. Some Saturdays required. Must be experienced and over 25 years. Must be reliable and punctual. Great pay rates.
12454929-LB30-20
12386255-DJ19-18
ELITE TAX PRACTITIONERS CPA
V Television/Video/Audio
About You
HC Driver
V Taxation/ Accounting
9793 9970 - 0419 514 977
In this role, you’ll support young people who are living in out of home care at Uniting Residential Care houses in Traralgon and Moe.
V Positions Vacant
V Rubbish Removal
2 CUBIC METRE BINS FROM $180 BIN SIZES 2-3-4-5 AND 6 CUBIC METRES UNWANTED CARS REMOVED FREE FAST FRIENDLY AND EFFICIENT SERVICE
Work with us and enjoy a positive and supportive culture, training opportunities and rewarding work.
Employment
section of Network Classifieds.
SUPER SERVICE BIN HIRE
• Part time and casual roles available • Ideal for youth/community service students • Mandatory top up course units will be paid for • Therapeutic Specialist providing support to each house & team • Travel allowance available* if travelling from Metro areas
PERMANENT
9703 1530
www.windows1.net.au
Be empowered to inspire people, enliven communities and confront social injustice.
CARAVAN PARK ACCOMMODATION
WINDOWS 1 Window Replacement Service Timber or Aluminium Windows Free Measure and quote
ROOMS AVAILABLE, Single rooms. Gents only. 48 Hammond Road/45 Hemmings Street, Dandenong. Ph Daniel 0417 336 906.
Real Estate
V To Let
9720 5111
Member HIA and MBA
Youth Residential Carers needed in Traralgon and Moe in Gippsland!
V Accommodation
General Classifieds
10 year Guarantee. Call now for a FREE quote: 0405 817 173
An opportunity exists for lead cabinetmakers in a busy caravan business in Perth, WA. Self-motivated people to work in a state of the art production facility, in a family owned business. Relocation expenses to WA negotiable for the right people. Here is an opportunity to get involved with a growing brand, in a great state!
12508731-BL35-21
V Windows
0417 382 700
V Roofing
PLACE YOUR
All enquiries to greg@explorex.com.au | call 08 9302 2295
• No Fuss • No Mess • No Stress
NEAT PLUMBING SERVICE Lic. Number 27186 Hot Water Specialists Blocked Drains
12508178-SG33-21
CARAVAN CABINET FITTERS
TREE SERVICES
• LARGE TREE SPECIALISTS • HEDGE TRIMMING EXPERTS • STUMP GRINDING • MULCH AVAILABLE • CONSULTING ARBORIST
12355821-ACM25-17
9775 0201
DAWSONS
Call today
V Garage Sales
$100/ 30mins
48 Davies Avenue, Sunshine North 9364 0770 SWA6566B
LEAD EXCAVATOR OPERATOR (Sewer) LEAD EXCAVATOR OPERATOR (Water) Please note that we only consider applications from skilled applicants with South East Water experience in new land development water/sewer reticulation & sewer outfall construction. Please send Resume and cover letter to:
PO Box 690 Dandenong VIC 3175 or pipelines.vic@fultonhogan.com.au
Find your Local Specialist in our
Professional Services section of Network Classifieds.
Open 7 days
DISCRIMINATION IN ADVERTISING IS UNLAWFUL 12509531-JW34-21
Lic 47089
We require white late model: 1 & 2 T Vans & Trays 4T - 12T Trays / Tauts Minimum guarantees Work in all areas Full training No experience required Early starts
Contact us 1300 301 678 ÜÜÜ°ÌÀii >Ã °V °>Õ
AFFORDABLE PLUMBING
UÊ/ÀiiÊ- >« }Ê UÊ i`} } UÊ-ÌÕ «Ê,i Û> UÊ Õ ÞÊ+Õ> wi`Ê « Þi` UÊ Õ ÞÊ ÃÕÀi`ÊUÊ ÀiiÊ+Õ Ìià GIPPSLAND UÊ ««Ã > `Ê V> Êv À UÊ/ÀiiÊ,i Û> ÊUÊ/ÀiiÊ*ÀÕ } ÊÊÊ ÛiÀÊÓÇÊÞi>ÀÃ
Looking for a new start or Career?
12400498-CG38-18
OWNER DRIVERS
Anyone advertising a puppy, dog, kitten or cat in Victoria for sale or re-homing will need a source number from the Pet Exchange Register and a microchip identification number. It is now an offence to advertise unless the source number and microchip identification number is included in the advertisement or notice. For further information, call 136 186 or visit animalwelfare.vic.gov.au
G5855585AA-dc11Mar
SEWER BLOCKAGES – MACHINE CLEANED
12496966-LB23-21
12449547-FA21-20
1158529-PB42-14
ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE
12400545-LB38-19
V Plumbing
0409 14 15 19
1238899-CG33-16
Sൾඍඍඅൾආൾඇඍ www.settlementplumbing.com
Pruning & Removal of Trees & Shrubs Stump Removal Hedges Mulching & Mulch Sales Full Insurance Cover
12497905-DL24-21
12500646-AV26-21
• Service and repairs to ducted heaters and evaporative coolers • Gas ducted heating changeover units • Carbon Monoxide testing • Installations & supply of split system heating & cooling • Service, repairs and replacement of hot water services 30 years experience
ADVERTISERS, in this section are qualified practitioners and offer nonsexual services.
V Positions Vacant
12505926-JW31-21
NEED A LOCAL HEATING AND HOT WATER REPAIRER?
V Pets & Services
12423634-SN31-19
V Heating
Employment
The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 1995 makes it unlawful for an advertiser to show any intention to discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy, race, age, marital status, political or religious belief or physical features, disability, lawful sexual activity/sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS status or on the basis of being associated with a person with one of the above characteristics, unless covered by an exception under the Act. As Network Classifieds could be legally liable if an unlawful advertisement is printed, Network Classifieds will not accept advertisements that appear to break the law. For more information about discrimination in advertising, contact your legal advisers or the Equal Opportunity Commission.
Motoring V Caravans & Trailers
CALL 1300 666 808
Motoring
CARAVAN 15FT 4 berth, with annexe, very good condition. $6,000 ono. Please ring 0424 448 221.
dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
SPORT
Local youngsters aim at stars By Nick Creely
Cricket Victoria is hopeful of an early October start. 229796
Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS
Premier solutions By Nick Creely Cricket Victoria (CV) is hoping for the Victorian Premier Cricket season to begin on Saturday 2 October, but have released a breakdown of the season which is based around nine different scenarios. In a document seen by Star News Group, CV has confirmed that the plans are in place for the season to begin on the first weekend of October, provided that lockdown ends on or before 10 September, which would give clubs ample time to complete at least three weeks of pre-season training. “Due to the current Covid situation, we again find ourselves in a position of uncertainty about the commencement of the 2021/22 Premier Cricket season,” CV told clubs. “To ensure the clubs, players, coaches and officials have some clarity about what the sea-
son will look like, CV Management in collaboration with the Premier Cricket Operations Advisory Group have developed a number of different scenarios which will be implemented based on when the lockdown ends and outdoor community sport can resume.” In the best case scenario, CV is planning on 15 rounds, with eight one-dayers and seven two-dayers, with five Twenty20 mid-week rounds and finals to also be played in exciting news. The one-dayers in the first scenario would conclude before the red-ball cricket starts, which is slated for Saturday 27 November. This would mean that the men’s grand final would be played on Friday 8 April-Sunday 10 April. However, with a number of scenarios in place to cater to Victorian restrictions, the season will convert to purely one-dayers once
again if the season can’t begin until at least 30 October. There is also a Premier Cricket v Vic State Squad exhibition match locked in for Sunday 16 January, which generated plenty of interest last season. If the lockdown ends by 10 September, the Women’s season is set to begin on Sunday 3 October, in what will be a 14-round white-ball campaign. The Women’s grand final will be played on Sunday 13 March. The latest the Women’s season can start is Sunday 28 November, with the grand final to be pushed back to the latest date of Sunday 20 March Also included in the fixture is seven Twenty20s, with the grand final for the Twenty20s to be played on Wednesday 26 January (Australia Day).
Four emerging Dandenong Stingray youngsters have been named in the NAB League Combine with plenty of Victorians set to show their wares in front of AFL recruiters. With the uncertainty of the Covid-19 pandemic, the annual draft combines will be purely state-based in 2021, but regardless, the emerging AFL stars will have plenty of opportunity to impress with the draft now only a matter of months away. The exciting Mac Andrew (Berwick), Miller Bergman (Berwick), Judson Clarke (Berwick) and Connor Macdonald (Doveton) have all been selected from the Stingrays in what is likely to be a fruitful draft period for the Shepley Oval-based NAB League outfit. Star News Group interviewed Bergman - a beaming runner with plenty of scope for improvement - in May this year, where he spoke about his desire to make it to the AFL level, and how he’s used Covid as a way to improve not only his fitness, but his game. “During games I just try and run as much as possible and be loud, then try and use it when I’ve got it,” he said. “During the Covid lockdown (in 2020) I was running maybe three to four times a week. “5km, 10km, then sometimes a short 1km run to just tick the legs over every now and then. “Now that training is back, I run once or twice a week. I am preparing for the harder stages if I am able and lucky enough to get there. “I have gone and watched North Melbourne train, I am a mad North Melbourne supporter, I have seen how hard they work at training, I have tried to get that into my own scenario. “Keep fit and work hard, it is never going to get easier the higher you go.” The 2021 NAB AFL Draft Combines with the Victorian combine to be held on 9 and/or 10 October in Melbourne - will assess each player’s physical strengths through several tests including 20-metre sprint, agility tests and vertical jump.
Lucky Lance ticks Sandown bucket list By Jason Adams Lucky Lance recorded his first Victorian city win last Thursday night at Sandown Park for trainer and part-owner Gavin Kearns. ‘Lance’ defeated hot prospect Rebellious comfortably in the night’s Grade 5 final and continues to justify the decision by connections to purchase him. “A mate of mine in Queensland, Robert Ayres, noticed him and we were looking to buy a dog. So we purchased him off Andy Lord and he’s been wonderful for us. I half own him with Robert and his family,” said Kearns. He was bought after just one start at Temora in New South Wales in March. Ayres took training duties in Queensland and they quickly saw success. He won six of his next 15 starts which included the Listed Chief Havoc Cup at Gunnedah in June. “There weren’t too many races to target so he came down here for the Maturity in July. Unfortunately we had to scratch as he was ill. Since then he’s had four starts and won his past two at Sandown Park. “We got him back to the track and here we are today.” Lucky Lance is one of just three racing greyhounds at Kearns’ Churchill property. He’s dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
Lucky Lance recorded his first Victorian city win. been connected to the sport his whole life though has been on and off when it comes to training due to work. “I’ve been training on and off for 30 years. It’s getting hard for me, it’s getting tough to trial at times outside of working hours.” “I work at the Yallourn Power Station looking after all of the conveyor systems, and have done that for 20-odd years now.”
He was introduced to the sport at a young age which planted the seeds for lifelong involvement. “My dad had a few dogs when I was growing up and we used to walk them. He got out of it for a little bit then one of my mates bred a litter. He asked me if I wanted some of them, I got back involved and I’ve been hooked ever since.”
Mac Andrew during his Berwick junior Picture: ROB CAREW days. 183964
Tuesday, 31 August, 2021
|
STAR JOURNAL 19
SPORT
All smiles. Melissa Julius brings The Garden back to scale after their impressive win at Sandown.
Ben Melham finds the perfect split and drives Veranskova to victory at Sandown. 248979
248979
The Garden shows growth By David Nagel It’s common knowledge that you can have some great fun with a good racehorse and that’s exactly the case with the Symon Wildetrained The Garden who continued his early progression with a strong win at Sandown Lakeside on Wednesday. The Garden – who is unplaced and has now won three of his five career starts – is a real character around the stable of Wilde and has attracted some great admirers. And there are none bigger than apprentice jockey Melissa Julius, who piloted the talented Shooting to Win/Nicky Nocky four-yearold gelding to a solid all-the-way win in the $50,000 BenchMark 64 Handicap (1400m). Julius, who gave nothing else a chance, said she is continually amused by the antics of the exciting prospect, who over raced after showing his cheeky side in the barriers before the race. “He’s been like that all along and I think I spend half my life laughing at him because he’s just such a dag of a horse,” Julius told Racing. com after the race. “He’s a pleasure to have around, he’s got the best personality, and even in the barriers today he was having a bit of a wobble around. “He relaxed beautifully, and we were going steady enough and I was really happy, but he just wanted to get on with the job. It would have been nice if a horse had of come to us a little bit early, instead of leaving him alone out in front. “As he steps up in grade the task will get a little bit harder and we probably won’t see the bottom of him for a little while which is really exciting.” Julius rode The Garden in his first two outings, but relinquished the ride to star-jockey Craig Williams for his next two, including a soft four-length victory at Geelong on August 13. Julius was thankful to regain the ride, thanking Wilde and Grand Syndicates National Syndicate Manager Sam Lyons for showing some faith in their stable apprentice. “I was so excited to get back on him, especially with the promise he is showing, and I can’t thank Symon (Wilde) and Sam Lyons enough,” she said. “It’s not always easy to get back on them after Willo (Williams) has won on them, especially as well as he did, and what he (The Gardens) is showing is really exciting.” Stable Foreman Liam Hoy said The Garden was an exciting prospect who had not disgraced himself in a strong $135,000 race at Caulfield in late July. “I think we’ll just work him through the grades, but I’ll leave that to Symon and Sam, who have placed him perfectly throughout, but that was his last chance in three-year-old grade at Caulfield, and he didn’t disgrace, so there’s so much upside with this bloke. “His best is going to be in the autumn, we’re extremely excited, and thanks very much to Sam for another opportunity with one of their good ones. “He’s always at the sales Sam, got his eye on 20 STAR JOURNAL
|
The Garden fights off all-comers to take out race four at Sandown on Wednesday. 248979 the cheaper ones, and it just goes to show they can come in any shape, size, or price, and we’re only too happy to be associated with him and hopefully it can continue.” Hoy said The Garden was not only impressive, but still had room for improvement. “He’s very progressive, but it did look like he wanted to get keen the first 600 there, so he’s still got a lot to learn,” he said. “Melissa sat very confident at the top of the straight, and it looked like he had that horse covered half way up the running, so it was a very good win.” Cranbourne trainer Cindy Alderson might also have a good one on her hands after her four-year-old mare Veranskova enjoyed the benefits of a great ride from Ben Melham to win the $50,000 BenchMark 64 Fillies and Mares Handicap (1300m) The daughter of Written Tycoon/Kirvinsky made it two wins from six starts after gaining an economical run throughout. Melham poked her through, one off the fence at the 200, to kick clear for a nice win. Alderson was delighted with the victory – that came off a short one-week back up. “She’s probably found the quick backup a little too much, she’s a very slow learner, but she’s got good ability,” Alderson said. “I think down the straight (Flemington)
Tuesday, 31 August, 2021
would be ideal for her now, we’ve just got to get her grading up high enough to get there.” Alderson said her progressive mare was learning her profession on the job. “She’s a big cumbersome girl and she’s had to learn her race craft on the track, she doesn’t always get it right but she’s been consistent and has good ability so it’s been good to see her breakthrough in town now,” she said. “The other day with the blinkers on and going forward from a wide draw she probably did a little too much work, but today she got a better run-in transit and that probably made the difference.” Melham, the only hoop to ride a double on the card, said Veranskova was in a bit of a grumpy mood before the race. “She’s a nice mare, she was on the quick backup, had plenty of weight and was a bit cranky today,” Melham explained. “I was a bit concerned about it, but we had a good trip in behind the speed and got a good run back to the inside at the right time and she was too good. “She was quite cantankerous, but luckily that didn’t affect her, and it was a good solid win in the end.” Racing returns to Sandown Lakeside this Wednesday, 1 September.
Pictures: PAT SCALA/RACING PHOTOS
Ben Melham scored the first leg of a winning double on the Cindy Alderson-trained Veranskova. 248979 dandenong.starcommunity.com.au