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Big bus stop ‘fail’ By Cam Lucadou-Wells Councillors and traders have escalated calls to relocate a bus interchange ‘trouble spot’ in central Dandenong. Greater Dandenong councillor Jim Memeti said after 12 years, it was time to concede the bus stop at the western end of Langhorne Street had failed. The continuing vandalism, begging and threats to safety were “not good enough”, with businesses deserting the area. He called for an urgent meeting with the Department of Transport to discuss a new location. Possible options could be outside Dandenong Market on Cleeland Street or outside Dandenong RSL on Clow Street, Cr Memeti said. “It has been 12 years now, it has not worked and we need alternatives.” In late September, the council and Victoria Police launched a joint program Safer Streets to tackle violence and unruly drunken groups in the Dandenong CBD. But Minid Patel, who owns Honest Restaurant and a juice bar opposite the bus interchange, says he and his staff feel anything but safe. His terrified staff were bailed up by a group of males threatening them outside the premises late at night on Friday 25 November. Mr Patel says after calling triple-zero, staff locked themselves inside for 90 minutes without a police response. He drove out to ensure his employees got home safely. The next day one of them quit due to feeling unsafe. He says he was later told by Dandenong police that they had “more urgent” priorities that Friday night. In recent weeks, Mr Patel’s car window was smashed in a break-in at The Hub car park, glass screens in the outdoor dining area were shattered, and thieves have brazenly stolen tip-jars.
Minid Patel with staff from Honest Restaurant, a week after being bailed up by a threatening group of men. 31048 Staff have been regularly abused and threatened by visitors screaming for food and money. “Things are getting worse and worse. We don’t want to be running a business like this. “There’s no point calling the police.” Mr Patel agrees that the Langhorne Street bus stop “has to go”. “That’s creating more drama. People hang out there all day, they sleep there and drink because there’s a stall there for them. “We need more parking there so customers and staff can feel safe by parking close to the restaurant.” As reported by Star Journal in 2020, traders near the bus stop have long raised the alarm on the mayhem. A real-estate agent in the area reported shop windows being smashed, drug taking,
public urination and brawls. Businesses and customers were deserting, he told Star Journal. The once-thriving shopping strip had turned into a ghetto. Last year, the council met with the Department of Transport about the anti-social issues and to explore alternative locations. “To date, the response has been that they still believe that the current configuration is the best and most suitable configuration to provide public transport services to that core area of Central Dandenong,” Greater Dandenong acting engineering director Kevin van Boxtel recently told a council meeting. “This is due to the complexity of the bus network and the number of routes that need to be accommodated and number of stops needed.” CA Department of Transport spokesperson said the bus interchange played a “critical role”
Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS
connecting people to central Dandenong. “We regularly review safety across our network, including access to bus stops, and welcome the community’s input in making our bus network safer for everyone.” According to the department, the criteria for bus stop locations include safe and accessible boarding and disembarking for passengers, good visibility for passengers, car and bus drivers and minimising the loss of car parking. Victoria Police says it conducts regular patrols of the Langhorne Street area. “Our community will continue to see a strong police presence throughout the Greater Dandenong area, including key transport hubs, to ensure all members of our community not only are safe, but also feel safe,” Inspector Peter Koger said. Continued page 5
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Snapping up photo prizes Greater Dandenong Mayor, Eden Foster announced the winners for the community photographic competition 2023. Each year the Council produces a community calendar, featuring photos of City of Greater Dandenong. This year, residents were encouraged to submit their photos of the city with more than 370 photo entries received. The entries were presented at an exhibition in the Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre where the mayor announced the winners. “The City of Greater Dandenong is a diverse and vibrant community, and the photos that will feature in the 2023 Community Calendar are a great example of this,” Cr Foster said. Twelve finalists were selected to feature in the 2023 calendar which is delivered to every household in Greater Dandenong.
The first prize winner, Tania Tivendale submitted a photo of a colourful parrot in a native tree which was captured in her front yard. Ms Tivendale took home a $1,000 cash prize. “It is a beautiful representation of the nature and biodiversity found in the City of Greater Dandenong,” Cr Foster said. Second prize winner was Daniel Green who submitted a drone photograph of the Dandenong Park at night, which will go on to feature for the month of April in the calendar. Thirdly, Peter Oudman’s photo was of the Di Zhang Wang Temple Bell at the Springvale cemetery. The mayor announced that the Council will run this competition for the 2024 Community Calendar and details about this will be found on the Council website.
First prize winner of the competition, Tania Tivendale with the Mayor.
Second place winner, Daniel Green’s photo submission depicts a drone photograph of the Dandenong Park at night.
Tania Tivendale’s photo submission depicts a parrot in a native tree, captured in her front yard.
This year, residents were encouraged to submit their photos of the city with more than 370 photo entries received. Picture: SUPPLIED
Picture: SUPPLIED
Peter Oudman’s photo was of the Di Zhang Wang Temple Bell at the Springvale cemetery.
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Stadium cost hits $237m By Cam Lucadou-Wells A proposed boutique sports stadium in Dandenong will cost a staggering $237 million, according to a long-awaited business case and feasibility review. In a sign of rapidly changing finances, the price tag for the Dandenong Sport and Events Centre is more than double the $110 million touted 12 months ago. The stadium, seen as a key to re-energising the ‘Revitalising Central Dandenong’ concept, is now on hold for at least the short term. Greater Dandenong acting chief executive Paul Kearsley said “more detailed planning” was required into the proposal. “More detailed planning with key stakeholders is required in order to progress the DSEC, which will inform the funding and ultimate timing and delivery of the project.” The $237 million price for a stadium with stage 1 capacity of 15,000 people included contingency and escalation costs to 2026-’27, Mr Kearsley said. Ultimately the stadium would cater for 19,500. However, over a 30-year period, the DSEC would deliver back an estimated $284 million in economic benefits, Mr Kearsley said. In its first year, about $16 million of “indirect/tourism expenditure” would be generated in Melbourne’s South East. “The DSEC presents an opportunity to address a current lack of major stadia infrastructure in Greater South East Melbourne (GSEM)
The Dandenong Sports and Events Centre’s estimated cost has skyrocketed. and delivers significant social and economic benefits to the region,” he said. “The DSEC will help to create regional pride and cohesion, address high levels of social disadvantage and provide a catalyst to revitalise central Dandenong – leading to further economic growth and prosperity in the region.” One of the project’s great proponents is Greater Dandenong councillor Jim Memeti. However with the heavy price tag, the project can’t go ahead without state or federal funding, he said. “For central Dandenong to work we need a big-ticket item like a stadium. Straightaway it would bring eight to 10 hotels along with restaurants and cafes that would revitalise the city. “At least we’ve done the feasibility study.
The council isn’t doing anything with the land … We’ll look at it again a year or two down the track.” Mayor Eden Foster also said “$230 million is too much for the council alone”. “It means a bit of advocating to our state and federal counterparts.” Councillor Rhonda Garad said the “incredibly ambitious project” was now “unlikely to come to fruition”. “In my mind, it’s extremely unlikely in the foreseeable future - given the number of highcost projects in the council’s sights. “It would be an extraordinary amount of money for the state and federal governments at this time, with the tremendous overspend on each of their budgets.
“We are really fighting for just basic amenities. Our schools and our hospitals have to be a lot bigger priorities than a pie-in-the-sky football stadium.” The DSEC is earmarked for vacant councilowned land near Dandenong railway station and Carroll Lane. Once the centrepiece of the council’s unsuccessful Team 11 bid, the stadium is hoped to host Melbourne City Football Club’s home games in the A and W leagues. Other potential events include conferences, weddings, exhibitions, training programs, offices, eSports and community outreach. The $200,000 business case and feasibility report by Deloittes was joint-funded by Greater Dandenong Council and the State Government. The document has not been released to the public. The council’s other major capital work projects such as Keysborough South Community Hub and DNA Gallery have been meanwhile delayed. As a result, more than $20 million of unspent capital works funds were carried over to the council’s amended 2022-’23 budget. Finance executive manager Michelle Hansen said project delays were caused by “Covid restrictions, the current economic environment, a change in project scope or requirements, a third party or authority delay, resourcing issues or because of interdependent projects”.
Keysborough Bowls Club wants better rub of the green By Sahar Foladi President of Keysborough Bowls Club, Noel Daly has been in for a battle just to get a cover over the green space and a veranda for the club. The bowls club officially opened in 1963 and has been in operation since. Mr Daly says he loves Keysborough and the whole facility is here for the community but he wishes Greater Dandenong Council would help the club to better cater for the local community. “Anybody in Victoria can come here and learn to bowl, everybody’s welcome here, we’ve never knocked anybody back. “We’ve always been striving. We just desperately want a cover over the front,” Mr Daly said. Mr Daly has been with the club for almost 23 years, serving as the president for three years. He said having the cover will help them to hold as many events throughout the year as possible without worrying about the unpredictable Melbourne weather. “I mean, they’ve been good (Council), they supplied our lights, so I’ve got lights at the deck and right at the front. But ideally, we want a cover out the front so we can operate around 365 days a year.” A council spokesperson said: “The Keysborough Bowls Club has a lease with Greater Dandenong City Council for use of these facilities. This lease provides the club with the security of a multi-year tenancy to conduct their activities and details what the responsibilities are for both the Club and Council in the upkeep of the facilities. “Council is responsible for all building maintenance and has recently completed the installation of floodlighting on the back green at a cost of over $100,000.” They also said development opportunities and a cover for the green have been incorporated in the final concept plan of the Rowley Allan Reserve master plan, an estimated $11 million upgrade of the reserve. However, the final concept plan lists the installation of a “motorised retractable cover for the bowls green to allow sunlight and maintenance, with the club and others to meet the cost.” Council did not comment whether the club will be responsible for the entire or some of the cost or if it’ll be covered by the dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
The front part of the club, which the president seeks a veranda for. 310682
The back of the club, where a second green is located. 310682 $11 million upgrade. Council officers have been in ongoing discussions with the club for its future plans said it prioritises upgrades to facilities such as this one, on an annual basis as part of the Capital Improvement Program, the spokesperson said. “Council is committed to supporting all community sporting clubs, in accordance with the Make Your Move Greater Dandenong Physical Activity Strategy. Council officers have met with the Club on a number of occasions to discuss their future plans and opportunities.” There were various community funding programs for community groups and clubs to apply for, the spokesperson said.
Pictures: SAHAR FOLADI
President of Keysborough Kookaburras Bowls Club, Noel Daly, right, and local artist Adrian Olguin outside the clubhouse. 310686
However, this is not the first time the club has been disappointed. The club says it was supposed to get a bar extension and that hasn’t gone ahead. “We have meetings, probably twice a year with them, let’s see where we’re at with it all. Nothing’s happening at the moment,” Mr Daly said. Mr Daly said the club is increasing in numbers with diverse locals coming in from all ages, not just seniors and adults. “All the top sides are filled with younger players this day and age. So we want to kind of bring this up to the 21st century and not just be buildings,” he said. The club also welcomes schools but Mr Daly said it’s hard to organise anything when
they’re limited to good weather. “We actually have schools coming in here all year round, unfortunately because we don’t have a cover out the front we can only do it in the good weather,” he said. “Had we a cover out the front, we’d be happy to score competitions here every week during the year but unfortunately, the council’s not budging at the moment. They’re not helping us,” Mr Daly said. Mr Daly said he does the touch ups and the works around the club from his own pocket to keep the club up-to-date and presentable. “We’ve got a group that work here every Monday morning, do all the grass, do all the surrounds painting and fix everything up.” Tuesday, 6 December, 2022
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Williams’ big ‘honour’
ALP’s pledges The State Government made more than $300 million of promises for the Greater Dandenong region as part of the recent election campaign. Here’s a breakdown of the pledges seat by seat: CLARINDA $400,000 Springvale Lunar New Year Festival $250,000 Hoa Nghiem Buddhist Temple upgrade $220,000 Alex Wilkie Reserve and Alex Nelson Reserve wetlands upgrade $200,000 Springvale Asian Business Association $80,000 South Eastern Melbourne Vietnamese Association Council $80,000 Keysborough Learning Centre DANDENONG $295 million Dandenong Hospital redevelopment $750,000 Tamil Community Centre in Dandenong $400,000 Albanian Sakie Islamic Society of Dandenong cultural centre $100,000 Nikola Tesla Community Serbian Cultural Club upgrades $100,000 Community Abundance $80,000 Colman Education Foundation $50,000 Emir Sultan Mosque – $50,000 $50,000 Omar-Farooq Mosque in Doveton A new Tech School in Dandenong New early childhood education centres in Dandenong and in Noble Park East A neighbourhood battery in Greater Dandenong MULGRAVE $2 million Springvale Reserve upgrade $200,000 Scout hall, Edinburgh Reserve upgrade $200,000 The Association of Ukrainians, Noble Park $100,000 South East Community Links MORDIALLOC $5.34 million Keysborough Gardens Primary School upgrade $500,000 Keysborough CFA station upgrade (planning) $100,000 Serbian Sports Centre, Keysborough
By Cam Lucadou-Wells As the dust settles on a “toxic” state election, Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams now occupies Labor’s safest State seat. On last count, Ms Williams was on a 20 per cent two-party preferred margin, defying the large swings that beset other ALP safe in Melbourne’s West. “It’s a huge honour to serve a third term here in Dandenong. To do so with the safest seat in the state, I don’t take it lightly. It is incredibly significant.” As for Labor’s resounding overall victory, it showed that “the loudest voice isn’t always the majority voice.” Ms Williams described the election as “the most toxic campaign I’ve been a part of” blighted by violent, personal threats and mistruths on social media. It was a big misstep by the Opposition in failing to distinguish between the loud voices and the majority view, Ms Williams said. “It was concerning to see a major party in the Coalition flirting with extreme voices and to see it play out on social media.” In the Dandenong electorate, the campaign teams were however “very respectful”. “That was reflective of the candidates, who were respectful to each other and that flowed
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By Cam Lucadou-Wells The Suburban Rail Loop project has been strongly endorsed by an “emphatic” election victory, says returned Labor MPs. Clarinda MP Meng Heang Tak and Mordialloc MP Tim Richardson were quick to nominate the Cheltenham to Box Hill rail tunnel as a pivotal issue in the State Election. On Monday 28 November, they joined the SRL Minister Jacinta Allan who declared: “Suburban Rail Loop is a project our city and state needs – and the emphatic election result shows beyond doubt that Victorians want it too.” The project was a point of difference between the ALP and the Opposition. The Coalition pledged to shelve the $36.5 billion first stage and reallocate the funds to public health. Mr Richardson said the SRL meant much to his constituents, like a graduate Alex who told him how “excited” to have work on the project that could stretch for several years. “It just gives that certainty for people that they have a job that they can continue with.” It would support 24,000 jobs with “200 in the supply chain”, Mr Richardson said. The first trains on the link between the Dandenong and Ringwood rail corridors aren’t expected to run until 2035. After several decades – and an estimated further $90 billion - the track is proposed to eventually span 90 kilometres and connect the South East to Melbourne Airport and Werribee. Mr Tak conceded the project’s controversial train stabling yard in Green Wedge parkland in Heatherton needed to be resolved, “I will continue to work with the Heatherton residents to bring out a good balanced
Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams and son Ruairí with Dandenong Hospital staff. A $295 million redevelopment of the hospital was pledged.
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Heang Meng Tak celebrates victory with his supporters. and realistic solution.” Another hot issue is the proposed 823-dwelling estate on the former Kingswood Golf Course – something that Mr Tak and five other Clarinda candidates all opposed. Seven months after a planning panel report, the Planning Minister is still yet to decide the matter. “I indicated I had meetings with the Planning Minister to inform her of my strong opposition to the inappropriate development,” Mr Tak said. “I will continue to work with the residents in Dingley Village who stated clearly their opposition to bring about a realistic solution.” The idea of a school on the site had mixed support from residents, he said. With a strong mandate, Mr Tak said the key election issues were the Suburban Rail Loop, local schools, more nurses, free kinder
and the inclusive schools infrastructure program. “I think these were well received in Clarinda and I thank them from the bottom of my heart.” When asked about a possible Cabinet role, Mr Tak said: “It’s up to the Parliamentary caucus but I’m ready to serve in any capacity.” Mr Richardson, who has served as parliamentary secretary for education and mental health, said: “We’ll see how we go. I hope to stay in the education and mental health space – it’s such an important area.” Among his priorities were planning a new, upgraded Keysborough CFA station and a $5.34 million upgrade of Keysborough Gardens Primary School. “I found the campaign really good. We were really positive and aspirational when we went out there about what we can do and what we can achieve.”
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Gabrielle Williams and baby Ruairí during the election campaign. 308369 Picture: GARY SISSONS
Voters ‘endorse’ Suburban Rail Loop
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through to the volunteers – with a few aberrations.” Despite a resounding victory, Labor couldn’t take this win for granted, Ms Williams said. The Government needed to “heed the lessons” and take seriously its obligations to serve people in “genuine need” during tough economic times. “There was strong discussion and healthy discussion around the economic pressures people are under … and to do what we can to respond to that.” She said voters had endorsed the Government’s infrastructure agenda including schools, hospitals and Tafes which gave it a “strong story to tell”. In October, Ms Williams took time out of electioneering after giving birth to son Ruairí - who was seen supporting the cause in ‘Vote 1 Mum’ babywear. “He mostly spent time in my living room minded by a friend while I was on the hustings. I think he slept through most of it.” Ms Williams has been serving as Minister for Mental Health and First Peoples and Treaty. She’d also previously held the Women and Prevention of Family Violence portfolios. When asked of her preferred portfolios in the next term, she said: “I’d be honoured to serve wherever I am needed.”
In the State Election wash-up, Labor has secured at least two Upper House seats and the Liberals at least one in the South East Metropolitan Region. With 62 per cent of votes counted, a battle looms between the Liberal Party, Liberal Democrats, the Greens, Legalise Cannabis and other micro parties for the region’s fourth and fifth seat. Labor won nearly 2.4 quotas, meaning Lee Tarlamis was re-elected as Labor’s lead candidate along with newcomer Michael Galea. However, Labor’s number-3 candidate Dr Tien Kieu’s path to re-election was less certain.
Tuesday, 6 December, 2022
On the Liberal side, with 1.6 quotas, lead candidate Ann-Marie Hermans has been elected. According to ABC analyst Antony Green, Rachel Payne from Legalise Cannabis Victoria will probably grab the fourth seat. He predicts that Liberal candidate Manju Hanumantharayappa will narrowly prevail over Liberal Democrats MP David Limbrick for the final seat. If Dr Kieu and Mr Limbrick fail to be reelected, none of the class of 2018 would be returned in the South Eastern Metro Region. Labor’s Gavin Jennings quit during the last
term, Adem Somyurek departed the ALP to run as a Labour DLP candidate in Northern Metro Region, and Liberal MP Gordon Rich-Phillips retired prior to the 2022 election. In 2020, Mr Tarlamis was elected to replace the departed Mr Jennings. Overall, no party will have majority control of the Legislative Council. Mr Green predicts a mix of 15 Labor MPs, 15 from the Coalition, three Greens, three from Legalise Cannabis, along with single representation from Animal Justice, Shooters Fishers and Farmers, Labour DLP and One Nation. dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
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‘Au revoir’ from CEO Bennie Greater Dandenong’s long-serving chief executive John Bennie has bid farewell at his final council meeting at the helm. “I’m rather embarrassed by the attention I’ve received over the past few weeks,” Mr Bennie told the meeting on Monday 28 November. “It’s not my style to be looking for any of that but I’ve welcomed it and very much appreciate it.” Mr Bennie was set to retire on 30 November after 16 years in the role. He also concludes his 48-year career in local government, which includes receiving the Public Service Medal in 2014. “There are some that are sad that I’m leaving but none of them are sadder than I am in leaving a great organisation and a great sector. “There are some who are glad that I am leaving. I respect that and understand fully as I have raised it myself that there is time for regeneration. “I have probably gone a year or two beyond that but I’ve done so with the best interests of
this city at heart.” He said he was overwhelmed by the kind words from “across the board” including councillors and community groups. “It’s a career that I’ve enjoyed immensely. The last 16 years have been a particular enjoyment for me. “I wish the council all the very best and the community. From afar I will watch with great interest the trajectory that this council and this great city is on. “I’m sure if I’m able to drive through in years to come I will see some great improvements that I feel are ready to emerge. “Thank you once again and au revoir,” he said before being showered by applause. Councillor Jim Memeti led glowing tributes to Mr Bennie. Soon after being first elected to council in 2005, Cr Memeti witnessed the resignation of former CEO Carl Wulff and the departure of an interim chief executive. Since Mr Bennie’s arrival the next year, the council had “only been up and up due to John being a very fair, firm and
Dandenong’s map for ‘zero’ homelessness The lack of affordable housing is being raised as the greatest barrier to ending the spate of rough-sleeping in Greater Dandenong. Since Covid, the large numbers of beggars and homeless people on Dandenong’s streets has fueled safety concerns from shoppers and traders. Dandenong restaurant owner Minid Patel says that “there’s so many homeless people”. “I feel bad for them. I literally give them leftover food, there’s so many at night. “They’re sleeping in the car park next to me.” “There has to be more patrolling at night. They have to get these people out of Dandenong.” Greater Dandenong councillor Jim Memeti has also called for action on beggars asking for money on “nearly every corner” in Dandenong. It comes five months after the launch of Greater Dandenong Council’s program Dandenong Zero. The project teams together the council, police and services with the aim of ending roughsleeping homelessness by providing long-term housing by December 2024. Since July, many of the 76 listed rough sleepers have moved into “safer interim accommodation as they begin the journey out of homelessness”, says Launch Housing chief executive George Hatvani says. “In addition, five people have been housed in safe, sustainable, long-term housing, which is the long-term goal of the project. “The greatest barrier to the achievement of this goal remains the availability of suitable and affordable housing stock within the municipality, primarily public and community housing.” The By-Name List (BNL) provides real-time data on rough sleepers on streets, in cars or in squats. Homelessness services meet weekly and use the BNL to ensure “no single person falls between the cracks”, Mr Hatvani says. “All are helped to find the fastest possible pathway out of homelessness and into housing and support.” He described the council’s approach as a “sophisticated and well-coordinated response”. It included a local entry point with the WAYSS homelessness agency, assertive outreach, supportive housing programs and Bob’s Place crisis accommodation run by Launch Housing. Other service providers including Centre for MultiCultural Youth, Salvation Army, ERMHA, Wintringham, Ngwala Willumbong, dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
Monash Health, Crossroads and the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre provide homelessness support, including for rough sleepers. Mayor Eden Foster said Dandenong Zero was a “slow process” in “building trust” with rough sleepers and tackling underlying issues such mental health and substance abuse. Meanwhile, the council was lobbying for more social and affordable housing in the region as part of the State Government’s $5.3 billion Big Housing Build, Cr Foster said. There was also a need for balancing residents’ concerns about overdevelopment of suburbs but offering more affordable housing, she said. Cr Foster noted Dandenong had pioneering services such as Australian-first Viv’s Place, an apartment building for women and children escaping family violence and homelessness. Inspector Peter Koger, who is Victoria Police’s local area commander in Greater Dandenong, said it was a police priority to link rough sleepers to support services. “As part of the Dandenong Zero initiative, Victoria Police works collaboratively with local council and support agencies, in an ongoing manner to engage with and support vulnerable members of our community. “If an offence is detected, or if a person is occupying a private property illegally, we will respond and deal with the matter at hand.”
From page 1 “Our number one priority is, and will always be, community safety and we will use all resources available in order to detect, deter and prevent crime.” As part of Safer Streets, police have stepped up patrols throughout Dandenong, and installed a mobile CCTV camera in various places such as Palm Plaza, the corner of Clow and Lonsdale Street and the Thomas Street multi-deck car park. Community services acting director Marcus Forster said
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crime and anti-social behaviour decreased and offenders were identified in the Thomas Street car park as a result of the CCTV. Homeless people in the Clow and Lonsdale streets area had also been “directly engaged and supported”. Business owners in Thomas and Lonsdale streets raised concerns at Safer Streets forums, Mr Forster said. “It was reported that there was an increase of safety issues occurring after 5pm.” A second forum will be held in 2023.
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EBA, and advocating ahead of November’s state election. He said he was leaving behind a council that “I hope … is better than when I inherited it”. “I think what I’m leaving is 1000 people in an organisation that are as committed as they ever have been to doing the best they possibly can for the people of Greater Dandenong.” Under his watch, the council had lifted architectural standards, particularly with its own buildings such as the Dandenong Civic Centre and Springvale Community Hub and library, he said. Other major projects included Noble Park Aquatic Centre (NPAC), Dandenong Park, Harmony Square and revitalisation of the Dandenong Market. Mr Bennie was hopeful that the $600 million Capital Alliance proposed redevelopment of the Little India precinct will be the forerunner to other transformative projects. “I don’t think we’ve seen anything like what Dandenong activity centre can offer going into the future.”
Safety comes first: Council
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transparent operator”. “He has always put the community first, the businesses first and also the residents first. “I can say with putting my hand on my heart John has been doing the best job he could under all these circumstances.” Mr Bennie was a “24-7 CEO” who responded to calls and emails on weekends, holidays. “I don’t think they make CEOs like this anymore. “It’s going to be a big, big loss.” The next CEO Jacqui Weatherill – who starts on Monday 19 December - had “big shoes to fill”, Cr Memeti said. “I’m sure this council will support Ms Weatherill.” This year, the council and Mr Bennie agreed to a final four-month extension of his tenure. In May, Mr Bennie told Star Journal that this was to take care of “unfinished business”, listing the ongoing I Cook Foods lawsuit against the council and Department of Health. He also wanted to further oversee the council’s post-Covid financial recovery, a new staff
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By Cam Lucadou-Wells
STAR JOURNAL 5
NEWS
‘Game-changer’ on track By Cam Lucadou-Wells The GameChange scheme that aims to fix the paradox of high unemployment in Greater Dandenong’s job-rich region has launched into Stage 2. City of Greater Dandenong, through South East Business Networks, has produced its evidence-based ‘case for change’ after four years of research and stakeholder round-tables. “Greater Dandenong is blessed with a thriving manufacturing and business community - including construction, hospitality, retail and allied health – with a higher than average unemployment rate,” SEBN general manager Sandra George said. “For this thriving economy to continue, we need to shift the jobs and skills ecosystem to deliver better outcomes for both local jobseekers and businesses alike.” According to its case for change, Greater Dandenong employs almost 100,000 people, creating $44 billion in annual economic value. But unemployment in Dandenong and Doveton stands at 12.6 per cent and 14.9 per cent - more than three times the statewide rate of 4.2 per cent. Similarly, youth (20-24 years old) unemployment is 22 per cent in Dandenong and 24.5 per cent in Doveton. The state rate is 9.9 per cent. The paper found that jobseekers and employers found the “jobs and skills ecosystem” complex and difficult. It didn’t address jobseekers’ need for work experience and didn’t align training with employers’ skills needs. Ms George says the focus is now on five key priority areas, including a central employment hub to make it easier to navigate the employment system. Other priorities included greater workplace flexibility to enable more participation, as well
Sandra George says the GameChange project is building a healthier jobs ‘ecosystem’. 285183 as targeted training linked to job opportunities. “(We need to) invest in those who need it most, finding better ways for jobseekers currently experiencing disadvantage or economic
exclusion to pursue pathways to employment.” GameChange aimed to engage employers, jobseekers, service providers and training or-
Picture: CAM LUCADOU-WELLS ganisations to work collaboratively, she said. The project is supported by Greater Dandenong City Council and the Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions.
Grassfires move so quickly, it’s impossible to outrun them. This summer, significant pasture growth in paddocks and roadsides means that fast-moving grassfires will be a serious risk across Victoria. Rural grassfires can be just as dangerous as bushfires, and can actually spread even faster, travelling at speeds of up to 25km/h. If you live close to open paddocks or grasslands, you could be at risk and need to be prepared. On Extreme or Catastrophic Fire Danger Rated days, the safest option is to leave early.
Plan. Act. Survive. Go to vic.gov.au/knowfire
Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne 12580899-JC49-22
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Tuesday, 6 December, 2022
endeavourhillshallamdoveton.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
Townhouses knocked back By Cam Lucadou-Wells Greater Dandenong councillors have voted down a triple townhouse proposal, citing a glut of development in Ardgower Road Noble Park. Eleven residents objected to the three double-storey townhouses at No.25 , raising issues such as traffic and on-street parking impacts in what is termed in real estate circles as the “Harrisfield Estate”. Councillor Angela Long, backed by a majority of colleagues, said the road already had too many units, with a multi-unit development on the way at No.29. “On-street parking is a nightmare at the moment. When those units are finished (at No.29) we’ll have more problems with onstreet parking. “It’s an overdevelopment, not of the site, but of the area.” Cr Long said the council’s decisions shouldn’t be always based on what VCAT might do. “We’re here to represent the residents in our city,” Cr Long said. “We’re individuals, we’re not sheep. We vote how we feel.” In opposition, the ward’s councillor Sean O’Reilly and councillors Tim Dark and Bob Milkovic cited the proposal’s full compliance with planning criteria. Cr O’Reilly said he “empathised” with neighbours’ concerns about the growing amount of development in Ardgower Road. But he didn’t want to give them “false hope” by playing “VCAT roulette”. “I don’t think that wasting thousands of dollars on a lawyers’ picnic on a futile attempt to fight this at VCAT on non-planning grounds is representing residents’ best interests. “In my 10 years on council, this is the worst refusal motion I’ve seen in this time.” Cr Dark said the council should seek to en-
A proposal for three double-storey townhouses at 25 Ardgower Road Noble Park was refused by Greater Dandenong Council. courage young families in the area, which had “capacity” for further dwellings. “We want to have diverse housing stock, where people can get in at a price point” rather than forcing people to commute from Pakenham and Clyde, he said. If challenged at VCAT, the council would “look like a bunch of clowns.”
Cr Milkovic said if the council took an “emotional” rather than “rational” approach, it would be “crucified” at VCAT. An appeal ran the risk of the council’s planning conditions being removed and the developer having “free rein”. Council officers noted that the homes each with double garages complied with on-site
parking requirements. The proposal was suitable for the mediumdensity ‘incremental change’ zone, which was gradually regenerating with multi-dwelling developments. It was assessed as close to major road networks, community facilities and public transport.
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Tuesday, 6 December, 2022
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STAR JOURNAL 7
12573558-JC49-22
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Tuesday, 6 December, 2022
dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
Serial ATM skimmer jailed By Cam Lucadou-Wells A repeat offender who was involved in ‘skimming’ 166 bank cards at ATMs across Melbourne has been jailed. Florinel Camara, 33, pleaded guilty at the Victorian County Court to being part of a twoman crime wave that stole more than $35,000 from unsuspecting bank customers across Melbourne in April-July 2020. Using a skimming device and a pinhole camera at ATMs, the pair stole bank account details and PINs at suburbs such as Springvale, Keysborough, Cranbourne, Chadstone, Clayton, Glen Waverley and Melbourne CBD.
They then transferred the data onto blank bank cards and made fraudulent account enquiries and withdrawals, sentencing judge Daniel Holding said on 1 December. The pair, who were using false IDs and staying in various B&Bs, also made unsuccessful attempts to fraudulently withdraw another $38,000. Judge Holding noted Camara’s extensive repeat offending, including being previously jailed for obtaining more than $184,000 from ATM skimming in 2014. He’d also been jailed in 2019 for the same crime while released on parole. Camara’s latest fraud was not as large in
amount but its “sophistication and persistence” made it serious, Judge Holding found. “The courts must denounce this type of sophisticated attack upon the proper functioning and security of ATM machines,” Judge Holding said. “Such machines are in everyday use by the community and it’s important that their proper functioning is not compromised by criminal activity.” The Romanian-born Camara had not been gainfully employed since arriving in Australia in 2012. He’d instead spiralled into regular cocaine, alcohol and occasional meth abuse.
The Australian citizen indicated that after his sentence, he’d return to Romania to work in a family business. Camara’s partner in this crime was jailed for up to 21 months, with a 15-month non-parole period. Camara was no more or less culpable in their conspiracy. Unlike Camara, the co-conspirator was not previously convicted for ATM skimming and faced possible deportation, Judge Holding said. He was jailed for up to three years, with a two year and four month non-parole period. The term includes 807 days in pre-sentence detention.
Healthy boost for students in the South-East Drive-in
Students at five primary schools are being given a healthy start from Dandenong South yoghurt maker Chobani. The five schools in Dandenong, Noble Park and Springvale each received a new fridge and 10 laptops with regular yoghurt and fruit donations starting this week. The fruit boxes will be supplied by notfor-profit group The One Box, totalling 24,000 pieces of fruit a year. Chobani will deliver 15,000 pots a year for the schools’ daily breakfast club. “Dandenong South is where our journey in Australia started, so for us it’s always been essential to nurture and support the communities in the area we proudly call home,” Chobani general manager Tim Browne said. “We aim to make a difference in our communities using food as a force for good.” The schools are St Anthony’s Primary School, Springvale Rise Primary School, Dandenong Primary School, Dandenong West Primary School and Dandenong South Primary School. Chobani has already been a long-term partner in Dandenong South Primary’s breakfast club as well as donating digital devices for its STEM programs. The five schools each host Community Hubs to welcome families from diverse backgrounds. At the hubs, women and young children connect with activities and with groups that provide health, education and settlement support.
waiting game By Sahar Foladi
Neliana and Sanam from Dandenong South Primary School using the donated laptops. 309705
Aanika from St Anthony’s Primary School enjoys a healthy breakfast. 309705
Erin Nagel and Debbie Vivian with St Anthony’s students Aanika, Harrison and Sophia. 309705
Dandenong South Primary students Thaha, Rohullah, Sanam and Neliana and St Anthony’s students Aanika, Harrison and Sophia with Chobani IT Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS team members. 309705 dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
There have been lots of offers for the Lunar Drive-in cinema since it went up for sale. Expressions of interest for the Lunar Drive-in closed on 23 November and the previous owner, David Kilderry said they’re still negotiating. “We’ve received a lot of offers which is good so we’ll see what happens.” The Lunar Drive-in was Australia’s longest and largest running, located in Dandenong South,, the ideal location for locals from all over the South-East suburbs to visit. “Hopefully we’ll know something soon, in a week or two but it’s like a normal sales process where people make offers and the agents sorts through the offers,” Mr Kilderry said. The decision came following more costs and profits thinning out according to the owner. Mr Kilderry has stated it’s possible for future buyers to keep the cinema, however they’ll face the same challenges, which leaves the future of the once popular drive-in cinema in uncertainty. Although there have been offers from cinema operators, Mr Kilderry told ABC that the land in the short or mid-term may be used for a factory, as the drivein is surrounded by multi-national factories. Recently, Australia’s largest pureplay industrial fund, Centuria officially opened up in Dandenong South, only 400 metres from the Lunar Drive-in, which could turn Mr Kilderry’s words into reality. Mr Kilderry said he really doesn’t know if the Lunar Drive-in will remain. “It depends on who it sells to.” While the sale has left thousands of locals upset and disappointed it has become a waiting game to watch what happens on the site. Mr Kilderry said he’ll make an announcement once the new owner is known.
Lunar drive-in is in negotiation with the offers made after expression of interest ended on 23 November. 307108 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS
Tuesday, 6 December, 2022
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STAR JOURNAL 9
LOOKING BACK
Compiled by Dandenong and District Historical Society
100 years ago 7 December 1922 Wirth’s Circus Stars of the first magnitude from all the leading countries of the civilised globe will figure among the numerous attractions presented on Wirth’s Circus programme when that mammoth combination visits Dandenong on Wednesday December 20 (one night only). During his twelve month’s tour of the world, Mr George Wirth was successful in engaging artists without peer in their particular spheres. The best circus talent ever seen in Dandenong will contribute to an entertainment that will be found, as is claimed, to be the best ever presented by Wirth Bros during their 42 years before the Australasian public. The menagerie this year also includes many novelties, prominent among them being a South African warthog, “the ugliest animal in the world” and the only one of its species in Australia.
50 years ago
Vinnies Springvale’s Gavin Paulokat inspects a “donation” with Greater Dandenong Council’s Mel White in Springvale in 2017. 175413 Picture: GARY SISSONS
20 years ago 2 December 2002 Friends pitch in to help The Bali terrorist attack might not be the front page news it was some weeks ago, but for the people affected by the bomb blast, it has lost none of it horror. Friends of Narre Warren victim Racheal Miszkowiec had been in Paddy’s Bar for five minutes when the first bomb exploded. She was badly burnt and has several shrapnel wounds to different parts of her
body, her Achilles tendon was almost severed and she can no longer use a little finger. After spending weeks in a Perth hospital Ms Miszkowiec is home and able to walk on crutches. Good friend Nikki Biggs decided to organise a fund raiser after news that Ms Miszkowiec could be unable to work for more than a year.
5 years ago 4 December 2017 Season trashed Don’t dump – donate. That’s the message
from Greater Dandenong Council and local charities this festive season. The council’s residential amenity co-ordinator Daniel Maltar, said removing dumped rubbish was costing Vinnies Springvale about $700 per month. “Council would be spending even more,” he said. “It’s an issue that many people like Vinnies have. “A lot of people are dumping sometimes unsaleable things, and a lot of the time non-usable things in front and at the rear of their shop. From our perspective it’s litter.”
12580911-AI49-22
5 December 1972 ‘I’ll do my best’ ALP candidate councillor Max Oldmeadow expects to go to Canberra sometime in the next week for the first time as the new MHR for Holt. A 48 year old schoolteacher, Councillor Oldmeadow scored a comfortable win over sitting member Mr Len Reid 55 (Liberal) in the Federal elections on Saturday. When the Journal went to press, the latest figures were: Ian Black (D.O.G.S) 1070, Harry de Sachau (DLP) 3615 Brenda Elliott (Australia Party) 1087, Max Oldmeadow (ALP) 30,864, Len Reid (Liberal) 22,998. These figures gave Councillor Oldmedow an absolute majority over Len Reid who in 1969 won the seat from Mr Neil Wilkinson (ALP) by 3550 votes. Earlier predictions of a close poll in Holt with the result possibly depending on preferences were incorrect, with the ALP gaining about 52%; of the votes cast – a swing of about 6.7%;
We’re building big near you and there will be transport disruptions As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re building the Metro Tunnel. Taking our busiest train lines through a new tunnel under the city to run more trains to and from our suburbs. The City Loop will also be closed for upgrades.
Buses replace trains in both directions and no City Loop trains City Loop
9pm 2 to 15 January
Flagstaff, Melbourne Central and Parliament stations closed
Cranbourne and Pakenham lines
4 to 13 January
Flinders St to Dandenong
8.30pm to last train, 8 and 12 January
Flinders St to Cranbourne and Pakenham
14 to 27 January
Flinders St to Westall
Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne
10 STAR JOURNAL
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Tuesday, 6 December, 2022
2175
Check before you travel at bigbuild.vic.gov.au
dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
CHRISTMAS CHEER
Yule love these flowers Floral arrangements are a perfect way to add some colour to your Yule time table. Ensure your house is looking its festive, floral best with these popular blooms: Lilies Lilies and amaryllis are always a popular choice at Christmas in a variety of colours. Many varieties have a beautiful scent that will perfume your home. They can be placed in an arrangement with other flowers or in a vase on their own and prefer to be kept away from direct sunlight in a cool environment. Remember though that lilies are extremely toxic to cats, causing acute renal failure, so think twice before gifting them to your catloving friend and keep them out of reach of your own felines. Poinsettia The poinsettia has come to symbolise Christmas, and with its bright red and green foliage it’s not hard to see why. They are commonly found in pots, ready to adorn a table or bench in your house. However, they can be finicky; they don’t like too much water, but take care also to not let them dry out. If the leaves begin to turn yellow and fall off, you may not be watering it correctly. They’re native to Mexico, so they also prefer warmth and light, and make sure to protect them from wind and draughts to keep them happy for the Christmas season. Rosemary It might not be the first plant that comes to mind when you think of Christmas, but this Mediterranean herb is actually perfect for an Australian Christmas. It’s easy to grow and care for, and fills the air with a mouth-watering perfume. It can be pruned into a Christmas tree shape if desired, and best of all, pairs deliciously well with the Christmas roast.
Bring some Rosemary inside for your floral arrangement - and the roast!
Poinsettias are an iconic Christmas bloom.
Lilies work well on their own or in an arrangement with other festive colours.
12573179-AV49-22
dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
Tuesday, 6 December, 2022
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STAR JOURNAL 11
CHRISTMAS CHEER
Christmas craze hits town By Sahar Foladi With Christmas around the corner, don’t look too far, here are some of the Christmas events happening near you! KEYSIE MARKET The Keysie Market event is on Sunday 18 December from 10am-3pm at Springers Leisure Centre Keysborough. Keysie Market was initially born to benfit the mental health of residents and small busineses after two years of lockdown. So go out there and enjoy the day with family at Keysie Market. Enjoy the live entertainment, stalls and delicious food with friends and family in this year’s Christmas season. CHRISTMAS AT DANDY MARKET Christmas is special in Greater Dandenong. It’s the season that unites the diverse communities of Dandenong. Dandenong Market is ready to embrace locals and support small businesses this Christmas with new opening hours to help you make use of the varieties available in the vast market. Check out the Dandenong Market website for the new opening hours and make sure to visit them to find affordable high quality varieties this Christmas. CAROLS IN THE PARK-DANDENONG Looking for Christmas carols in your area? What could be better than the 75th year of Dandenong Carols in the park? The event is on Friday 9 December from 6pm-9:30pm, Putney Street Dandenong. This event has everything for everyone. It’s your one stop Christmas shopping with Christmas craft markets, meet with local makers for tips and get an early start for gift shopping Catch heaps of entertainment for the kids
Picture: ROB CAREW from 6-7pm with an exciting pre-show entertainment that includes free face painting, roving performers, art and craft activities and free photos with Santa. From 7pm the stage program will feature performances from local schools and church groups, many of which will be accompanied by the Greater Dandenong Band. Bring your own chairs and picnic blankets and enjoy the wonderful atmosphere while you try food from a selection of delicious food stalls. There’s going to be a touch of the circus
coming to Carols this year with performances by the Dreaming Space, while the Band will be performing that big brass band sound we all love. Celia and friends will be there with a funky fun-filled Christmas adventure for the whole family to enjoy. She’ll be joined by local singer and comedian Geraldine Quinn; and if you’re lucky, you just might spot the jolly man with an incredible beard in a big red suit, on stage. SPRINGVALE COMMUNITY HUB CHRISTMAS CRAFT In the lead up to Christmas, Springvale Com-
munity Hub will be running drop-in Christmas Craft sessions inside the Mitchell Hall. These workshops are not facilitated - create at your leisure. This event is perfect for kids to get into the Christmas spirits and enhance their creativity in Christmas crafts! Thursday 8 December - Decorate your own Christmas ornaments using things that stick and shine. Thursday 15 December - Christmas colouring-in with guided pages, textas and pencils Thursday 22 December - Decorate your own wrapping paper using patterns, symbols, glitter pens and textas. SANTA VISITS SPRINGVALE COMMUNITY HUB Come visit Santa in the Mitchell Hall at Springvale Community Hub (Hillcrest Grove, Springvale) on Wednesday 14 December, 3:305:30pm. Take your own photos with Santa and enjoy some Christmas craft activities. Registrations for this event is required so don’t miss this opportunity and hurry! CHRISTMAS ENTERTAINMENT NOBLE PARK December is a wonderful time to be out and about in Greater Dandenong. It’s a time when the end-of-year Christmas cheer brings magic to our favourite venues, streets and shopping precincts. However you celebrate the festive season, take the time to embrace the joy and festivity of our community at this special time of year. Our captivating entertainers will be roving the streets in the week leading up to Christmas – watch out for our fabulous performers who will be spreading festive cheer to the community.
YOU CHOOSE YOUR OWN CHRISTMAS TREE! For more than 60 years, Dandenong Christmas Tree Farm has been delighting customers with that most precious of festive traditions: a real, live Christmas tree. Customers are invited to visit the farm and take a wander amongst the rows of green until they find their perfect tree. There is a tree for every family, in different heights to fit any house. Staff will cut the tree and can net it for easy transportation for a small fee. They’re easy to take care of too; just keep them watered and your tree will last the whole Christmas season.
The winner will receive and real Christmas Tree (up to 7 foot tall with a stand) from our friends at the Dandenong Christmas Tree Farm at 336 Brown Road, Officer. Your favourite festive ornaments and wrapped Christmas presents look so much better on a real tree... Hurry. Entries close Noon, Friday 9 December 2022 To ENTER simply scan the QR CODE for details or visit starcommunity.com.au/competitions
Magnificent trees 1- 3 m (4 to 10ft)
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Stands available You can come and choose your tree from:
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t Credi Cash, and Card s Eftpo es i facilit
12524913-AV49-21
There is nothing like that fresh smell of a real tree and Star News is giving one lucky reader that experience this Christmas!
1300 655 652 www.dandenongchristmastreefarm.com.au 12579566-HC48-22
12 STAR JOURNAL
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Tuesday, 6 December, 2022
dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
CHRISTMAS CHEER
Santa Claus will be all over Greater Dandenong. 174450
Pictures: ROB CAREW
Come along to central Noble Park and enjoy our musical multi skilled musicians as they perform three, 45 minutes sets on: Thursday 15 December, 3pm- 6pm Thursday 22 December, 1.30pm-4.30pm HARMONY SQUARE- DANDENONG Enjoy the musical multi-skilled musicians at Harmony Square and Dandenong Plaza, a great look out for the family! Three 45 minutes sets are performed on the following dates, Friday 16 December 11am-2pm and on Wednesday 21 December, 10:30am-1pm. CHRISTMAS WATER SKI SHOW Some exciting new things will be happening on the water as the National Water Sport Centre has held their first show for the 2022/23 season. Visit the annual Christmas Show on the banks of the National Water Sport Centre with your family to enjoy an action-packed show.
of them covered for you! Dandenong Plaza will open for extended hours from 12 December. 12 Days of festive giveaways from Plaza’s retailers start from 12-23 December. It’s easy to enter! Spend $30 or more at the centre during the giveaway period. Prizes include a Kmart camping pack, Reading Cinema gift card, 10-foot trampoline from Rebel Sport and fresh food and grocery vouchers. The Sensitive Santa photo sessions are on offer for 15-minute pre-booked sessions for children with special needs. The individually-tailored sessions can be booked during quieter times of trade, with toned-down lights and sounds. Sensitive Santa sessions, a ‘letters to Santa’ mail box, Christmas-theme kids activities and a gift wrapping service for the festive season. Free festive kids activities will be held on
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There will be food trucks on site if you want to purchase some yummy treats or you can bring along your own picnic. Entry is free and will include a special guest appearance from Santa Claus. Schedule: 3pm - Start Arriving at the National Water Sport Centre, bring along chairs, picnic rug. 4pm - Show starts (one hour duration with short intermission) 5pm - Santa arrives (yes, we know he’s busy at the North Pole but has promised us again he will be skiing in). How to find the show: Head to the National Water Sport Centre at 5 Riverend Road, Bangholme and drive all the way to the end. The show is located on Patterson River on the lefthand side as you drive in. DANDENONG PLAZA A lot will be happening in Dandenong Plaza over the month of Christmas and we’ve got all
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A spectacular month of Christmas celebrations is ahead in Greater Dandenong. 174450
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WIN A $100 WAVERLEY GARDENS GIFT CARD
the weekends of 3-4 December and 10-11 December. The crafts range from decorating Christmas stockings and masks to face paintings. On Sunday 11 December, Santa, Mrs Claus, Santa’s elves and Rudolph will be roaming the centre, backed by a Christmas jazz musicians. Local primary school students will perform Christmas songs and display festive artwork in December. A Christmas gift wrapping station will open from 12 December, with gold-coin donations going to The Salvation Army’s homelessness service. After arriving on a trackless train on 16 December, Santa will be available for free photos with children and families up until Christmas Eve. A free gift will be presented to each child.
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CHARITY CHRISTMAS GIFT WRAPPING Saturday 10 - Friday 23 December | 11am - 3pm LOCATED NEAR THE CUSTOMER SERVICE DESK All donations go to Bestchance
Decorate your own Christmas Stocking*
Christmas Face Painting
Make your own Bauble Workshop*
Tues 6 Dec | 11am - 2pm
Thurs 8 Dec | 11am - 2pm
Tues 13 Dec | 11am - 2pm
LOCATED NEAR TELSTRA
LOCATED NEAR TELSTRA
LOCATED NEAR TELSTRA
*While stock lasts
Let us entertain you.
Waverley Gardens Shopping Centre Corner Police & Jacksons Road, Mulgrave VIC 3170 12580073-MS49-22
dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
Tuesday, 6 December, 2022
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STAR JOURNAL 13
MESSAGE OF HOPE
NEWS
Worries can be quashed
Four charged with murder A fourth man has been charged with murder following the death of a man in Melbourne’s southeast. The 36-year-old man died in the early hours of July 11 after he was shot at a Noble Park unit. Police on Sunday charged a 35-year-old Doveton man with murder, affray and intentionally causing injury. He was remanded to appear at the Mel-
bourne Magistrates Court in April next year. The Doveton man is the fourth person to be charged over the incident, with two men from Springvale and a 25-year-old man from Blackburn North charged since November 23. All four men are facing a single count of murder. Investigators say they are not looking for anyone else in relation to the incident.
MESSAGE OF
HOPE By Ursula Aruma of Sathya Sai Organisation It gives me great pleasure to write another Message of Hope. Society is burdened by numerous worries and fears, and additional challenges brought by pandemics, earthquakes, floods, drought and other problems like grieving and health issues. There are positive and practical ways to overcome these problems if you start your day with a prayer of gratitude for all that you have in your life and gratitude for waking up to another blissful morning wherein you can reach your potential. All worries come from our thoughts. Always conceive good thoughts so that your heart can be purified and be a worthy abode for the Spirit of God. Remind yourself, who you are, where did you come from and where are you going. Are you satisfied with the progress you have made towards transforming your life, sharing all with divinity? We all have individual identities: the company we keep, the faith we follow etc. Conceiving good thoughts will take negativity and depression away and you grow into a
Ursula Aruma writes about cultivating positive thinking. positive environment. There is a need for respect and a sense of belonging by spending quality time with family. The five human values of Truth, Peace, Love, Non-violence, and Right Conduct have to be followed for a country to prosper, where society is happy, healthy, and full of energy and a better future to be looked forward to. The responsibility lies in each of us, faith leaders, teachers and, of course - parents. We all need to work together, to make the world a better place to live in. “May all beings in all worlds be happy and no one suffer. Let there be peace, peace, peace.”
Peter Rabbit
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Second go at life
Selba Luka, centre, receives her award from Mayor Angela Long and Deputy Mayor Sophie Tan.
By Cam Lucadou-Wells Twanny Farrugia has made it his mission to
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
City’s top citizen
complex grieving process for donors’ families. “Out of one person, you have seven trans-
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
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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
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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.
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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
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NEWS
Libraries set to rebrand
Casey Cardinia Libraries are calling on the community to help them come up with a new name for their service. 310001 Picture: SUPPLIED
The EPA have issued a warning for those eager to consume home-grown vegetables from yards that have fallen victim to flooding in recent months, with produce that has come into to contact with floodwaters needing to be either thoroughly washed or thrown out. EPA Chief Environmental Scientist, Professor Mark Taylor warned that all flood waters are considered to be contaminated and that could transfer to your vegetables. “Some fruit and vegetables will be salvageable simply by washing them, but if your garden was flooded in the recent heavy rain events experienced around the state, if there’s any doubt, we always advise to be cautious and throw them out,” Prof Taylor said. Professor Taylor said EPA floodwater testing had shown highly variable rates of contamination by location and date of testing, which just heightened the need for caution. He has advised to not eat leafy vegetables, such as spinach, kale and lettuce, or anything that was already damaged before
the floods, such as produce with pierced or split skin. Raw soft fruits, such as berries, should be avoided, as they cannot be washed thoroughly. They will be considered safe if they are cooked. Vegetables with protective shells, husks or skins, such as peas and sweet corn, or were immature at the time of the flooding, should be treated with caution. Prof Taylor recommends thoroughly washing, peeling and cooking them before consuming. EPA’s soil testing program continues from flood affected areas with results helping communities with their clean-up efforts. If you’re from a flood-affected area and would like more information, dial 1300 EPA VIC (1300 372 842) and select #8, go epa. vic.gov.au/for-community/environmentalinformation/water/heavy-rainfall-events/ how-to-manage-waste-after-a-flood/ health-risks-from-flood-waters#flood-impacted-produce
The EPA are advising people to not eat homegrown leafy vegetables that may have been contaminated by flood waters.
12580761-JW49-22
The beginning of a new era for Casey Cardinia Libraries calls for a new name for their service, and they’ve asked you to provide some inspiration. Libraries in the City of Casey (Doveton, Bunjil Place, Hampton Park, Endeavour Hills and Cranbourne) will remain under the Casey Cardinia banner, while Pakenham, Emerald and the Cardinia Mobile Library Service will partner with a different service, Myli. Cardinia Libraries will transition to Myli at the end of November. Libraries Chief Executive Beth Luppino said she was excited to receive local input. “We are really keen to get inspiration and ideas from the Casey Community - it will be so much more meaningful if our new name comes from local library members,” Ms Luppino said. “When a new name is decided, we will update all our members - we expect this to be early in 2023. “The new name will not affect services in any way, but it will be a name that community will recognise as representing high quality library services in Casey.” The new name cannot contain the word ‘Casey’, cannot already exist and must reflect a service that is dynamic and constantly evolving. All participants will go into the draw to win a $200 Coles Myer voucher, chosen at random. Entries will open on Thursday 1 December and close on Thursday 14 December. Entries can be submitted by filling in a form at the libraries or on the Casey Cardinia Libraries website cclc.vic.gov.au/new/ More information about the services’ transition can be found at cclc.vic.gov.au/transition/
EPA urges caution before eating home-grown veg
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STAR JOURNAL 15
NEWS
Recycling results on show By Marcus Uhe The library at Lynbrook Primary School currently resembles an underwater haven of jellyfish, litter bugs and sea creatures. As has unfortunately become commonplace in our vast environment too, there’s plastic bottles, egg cartons and other recyclables floating around, highlighting our climate emergency and the need to pay more attention to the world around us. Thankfully, in the case of the Lynbrook reef, the two are working in harmony. Inspired by National Recycling Week, the grade four students used empty bottles, bottle caps, egg cartons and more to hand-craft the fauna, as the school used the week to increase their knowledge about the broader cause along the way. Driving the initiatives were year four teacher Laura Waldron and her year four teaching and learning coordinator Rebecca Bogos. “It was all about how they can promote the message about looking after the environment through recycling and caring for the environment,” Ms Bogos said. “It’s certainly a good way to decorate the library and bring the literature together. “We purchased a lot of new picture books that have that message about caring for the environment and they’ve been on display throughout the term.” The “nude food” challenge was issued to all students, encouraging them to bring a lunch lacking as much disposable rubbish as possible, and forcing a re-think in the way parents did the weekly shop; buying foods in bulk rather than individual packets, and packing unwrapped fruit and vegetables, for example. Champions of resourcefulness from each year level were rewarded with prizes of lunchboxes and drink bottles at an assembly.
(L-R) Charlotte, Ajeet, Akaljot, Manvir and Phoenix with their battery and toothbrush displays. 309865
Year four students (L-R) Farzam, Taha, Archer, Charlie, Chloe, Jordan and Brody at the Gumboot Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS Garden. 309865
Ajeet and Charlotte display their litterbugs among the jellyfish in the library. 309865
“The whole school got onboard and integrated it into our curriculum,” Ms Bogos said. “We had different year levels do different activities, and the grade fours focused on upcycling. “Being a whole school focus, there’s a lot more momentum and focus when a whole school takes on a project.” As you walk into reception you’ll find the battery and toothpaste tube recycling deposit boxes, while hanging from the back fence outside the library, an army of donated footwear formed the basis of the Gumboot Garden. 48 boots that were unable to be sold commercially were generously donated to the students by Merry People, which were filled with potting mix and plant cuttings, under a
broader school community. Ms Bogos said the week was a fantastic opportunity for the parents, who so-often acted as substitute teachers during the pandemic and enforced remote learning periods, to come as experience their kids’ creations for themselves. “Our parent community is very supportive. “We’re gradually getting back to normal, they had to stay away so for long. Having them come in and being able to see what’s on display is really good, really rewarding, and it means school and home are working together, which is best for the kids. “It’s about taking that learning from school and taking it home, so that the community is learning as well.”
sign, also donated to the school, by The Label Project. Of all the activities and creations to spawn from the week, Ms Bogos said the gumboot garden was her favorite. “It’s pretty self-sufficient, the garden, but the grade fours just keep a check on it, especially after a weekend, we hope there’s no damage,” Ms Bogos said. “We planted succulents and pig face. The succulents were donated to us by the community. I think the only thing we purchased was the potting mix. After three years of covid-19 interruptions, a percentage of Lynbrook’s 875 student cohort are yet to experience a full year in the classroom, with consequences for the
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NEWS
Mighty medal haul for John By Sahar Foladi
John Dickens with the medals he won. The gun he used he bought for $1500 or $1800 and they sell for around $3000 now. 310578 shots of each target,” Mr Dickens said. Pan Pacific Games have paved the way as Australia’s premier multi-sport event and consists of equivalent participation levels with some of the biggest sporting occasions in the world such as the Olympic and Commonwealth Games. Mr Dickens has been shooting since the age of 16 and his passion has taken him everywhere in Australia from Tasmania to Queensland. “This last shoot that I’ve been away I’ve got the most gold medals I’ve ever shot,” Mr Dickens said. Mr Dickens came to Australia with his family at the age of nine in Wangaratta. He married a “nice girl” and moved to Melbourne to work as a compositor for The Age newspaper. Mr Dickens is long retired and has lived in Keysborough for 15 years. Since the death of his wife nine years ago, Mr Dickens said shooting keeps him going.
Eighty-one year old John Dickens collects gold medals from the Pan Pacific Games. 310578 Pictures: GARY SISSONS
12580180-JW49-22
Eighty-one year old shooter, John Dickens comes home with gold medals from the Pan Pacific Games in Queensland. The Keysborough local participated in almost six games and brought home six gold and 3 silver medals. Mr Dickens said he enjoyed shooting and anyone of any age can do it. “In five or six days of the games, in different categories of 12 gauge shotgun shooting I entered in all the competitions that were possible to go into and I shot and I came home with six gold medals and three Silvers.” The Pan Pacific Masters Games is the world’s biggest and best biennial master games and continues to be held biennially in early November on the Gold Coast. “At the end of the day, they’d come by have a presentation for the day’s shooting. They put your score and your age group, I was the only one in my group, I ended up with a gold medal for every nice shot,” Mr Dickens said. The gun Mr Dickens used for all his competitions is over 10 years old, which he had bought for around $1800 and can be sold for $3000 or more now. Mr Dickens mentioned other competitors had guns worth $20,000 to $30,000. In 2018, there were more than 16,000 participants from over 40 countries and Mr Dickens was one of them and returned with two gold medals, silver and two bronze medals. “From nine o’clock in the morning to four o’clock in the afternoon, you’re walking around on your feet shooting at targets. I think we shot over 1000 targets by usually firing two
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STAR JOURNAL 17
WHAT’S ON Senior Citz activities Keysborough and District Multicultural Senior Citizens Club Inc has resumed its activities after the lifting of Covid restrictions. Bingo is on the first, second and fourth Tuesdays of the month, 1pm-3pm - $2 entry and $1.50 per book. Concerts with professional entertainers on the 3rd Tuesday of the month from January 2023 - $2 entry. Line dancing, Wednesdays 1pm-3pm, $5 entry. Ballroom dancing lessons, Thursdays 12.30pm-1pm followed by ballroom dancing at 3pm, $2 entry. Tea and coffee supplied at all events. Club will be in recess from 13 December 2022 and reopen on 17 January 2023 Details: Julie on 0428 561 694 or email graemejsmart@hotmail.com
Sunday charity market Dandenong singer Mary Ann Van Der Horst, as seen on X Factor Australia, will be performing at the Magical Getaway Foundation Keysborough Sunday Market. Come along and enjoy trash n’ treasure, crafts, produce and much more. Entry by gold coin donation, which supports Magical Getaway Foundation gifting first-ever holidays to vulnerable Australian children and their families. Sunday 11 December, 10am2pm at the Frederick Wachter Reserve, 133-155 Kingsclere Ave, Keysborough.
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Afghan women focus group Bakhtar Community Organisation is organising a women focus group to be held every two weeks. The group has a key focus on developing and supporting Afghan women, especially the new arrivals to get connected in the community, receive relevant information to access the government services, overcome day to day challenges and integrate into Australian society. A light refreshment will also be provided. from Sunday 4 December 2pm at 23 – 47 Gunns Road, Hallam. Details: info@bakhtar. org.au or 9703 2555 (Thursdays and Fridays)
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Denise Drysdale This legend of Australian show business is rated as one of the best entertainers in Australia. Denise’s show includes great songs such as Vince Gill’s Look At Us, Being Green, and a Dusty Springfield medley intermingled with some entertaining comedy and patter. Thursday 8 December, 10.30am at Drum Theatre. Bookings: 8571 1666 or drum.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au
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World Cup big screen All 2022 FIFA World Cup matches will be screened live on the Urban Screen at Harmony Square. Until 19 December at 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong.
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Dinner with a VIEW Dandenong Evening VIEW Club will hold its Christmas celebration dinner next month. VIEW stands for Voice, Interests and Education for
Dandenong singer Mary Ann Van Der Horst. Women and the Club supports The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program. Tuesday, 6 December, 7pm at Dandenong RSL. Bookings essential. Details: Brigitte, 0491 626 527.
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Dandenong Carols Carols in Dandenong Park returns for its 75th year. The free and traditional carols event has an exciting stage program, interactive roving performers, free activities, delicious food stalls and a Christmas craft market . Bring your own chairs and picnic blankets and enjoy the wonderful atmosphere. Friday 9 December, 6pm-9.30pm (show starts 7pm) at Dandenong Park, Pultney Street, Dandenong.
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Tamil Harvest Festival Tamil Australians celebrate ‘Thai Pongal – Tamil Harvest Festival and New Year’ - a day-long cultural experience and entertainment for the whole family with free entry. Includes traditional rice pudding (Pongal) making, open stage, traditional games, food and other stalls, kids entertainment and exhibitions.
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22 January, 2023, 8.30am-4pm at GAA Gaelic Park, 324 Perry Road, Keysborough.
Food drive Hallam Friends of Red Cross and Hallam Community Learning Centre are working together on a food drive for refugees in our local community. Anyone can make non-perishable food donations, which will be delivered to needy locals. Donations can be dropped off Mondays-Fridays 10am-3pm at Hallam Community Learning Centre, 56 Kays Road Hallam. Details: 97031688 or 0455566570
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Christmas Keysie Festival The next Keysie Festival - Christmas Edition features live music, food trucks, homemade goods, flowers and plants, upcycle and pre-loved goods. Applications are open for stallholders. Sunday 18 December, 2022 at Springers Leisure Centre, Keysborough. Details: keysiemarket.com.au
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Sunday Jazz Enjoy a relaxing Sunday afternoon filled with great food, coffee and the smooth sounds of the Jennifer Salisbury Jazz Duo performing on
the Cafe Vita deck at Springvale Botanical Cemetery. 12pm-3pm on 29 January, 26 February, 26 March at Springvale Botanical Cemetery, 600 Princes Highway, Springvale. Details: 8558 8238 or info@cafevita.org.au
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Men’s Shed Keysborough Men’s Shed is a group based on old-fashioned mateship. It provides a place where men can feel included and safe, and is a tonic for their health and wellbeing. Activities include woodwork projects, cooking for lunches, welding, maintenance around the place and assistance to the community. It’s in the reserve outside the rear of Resurrection Primary School, 402 Corrigan Road, Keysborough (enter driveway opposite 16 Loxwood Avenue). Fridays 9am to 2pm. Details: Michael Howlett, 0408 545 196.
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Fun for retirees Waverley Gardens Combined Probus Club is seeking new members from Dandenong North, Noble Park and Springvale North. In addition to other activities, members meet for coffee and listen to a guest speaker. From 9.45am to noon on the last Tuesday of the month at Southern Community Centre, 27 Rupert Dr, Mulgrave. Details: Don, 9560 6046.
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Conversation circle Join the Conversation Circle at Dandenong Library and make new friends whilst practising English in a friendly, relaxed and safe environment. This program is suitable for adults. Low to intermediate levels of English language skills are required. When: Every Thursday during school terms 6-7.30pm.
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Jobs Victoria Advocate Drop-in employment information. Monday from 10am–4pm at Springvale Library; Wednesday from 10am to 4pm at Dandenong Library; every Thursday fortnight at CoCO’S, 2-3/48 McCrae Street Dandenong; Tuesday and Friday from 10am to 4pm at Springvale Learning & Activities Centre. Contact Ali Abd Ali. Phone: 0452 647 522. Email: pathways@springvalelac.org.au
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The Cardinia Foundation was established in 2004 with the vision of building strong, healthy and diverse communities. In partnership with the Cardinia Shire Council, the Foundation primarily supports local NFP groups in the provision of Grants including older persons, disability, disadvantaged, youth, arts, environment and men’s health across the Cardinia Shire region.
Fundraising Manager
Executive Officer
Reporting to the Chair, the Fundraising Manager is a highly influential role and will be the face of the organisation. The appointee will create comprehensive campaigns and build brand awareness across the community.
Reporting to the Chair and working closely with the Fundraising Manager, the Executive Officer will provide administrative and financial stewardship, risk and governance advice, and secretariat service to the Board.
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Responsibilities include policy and procedure compliance,IT and database systems,general administration regular reporting and advising on Foundation outcomes and revenue generating activities.
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KEYSBOROUGH COLLEGE Tenders are called for the refurbishment of three rooms and the construction of a retractable wall system. Information and plan drawings are available from Keysborough College
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SPORT
Berwick boy Binns a Blue By Jonty Ralphsmith Jaxon Binns is a Blue! The Berwick boy and Dandenong Stingray was selected by Carlton with its third selection of the AFL National Draft, at pick 32 overall. Noted for his aerobic capacity, the highlight of Binns’ season was a 39-disposal game for Vic Country under the hot Brisbane sun against the Allies. “He is the running man,” AFL Talent Ambassador Kevin Sheehan said on the Fox Footy broadcast. “I love the way he works both ways, up and down the ground, finds the footy, (he’s an) intelligent player when he goes forward as well, (he) can even play that small forward role as well and again it is showing the depth (of this draft),” Sheehan said. A Berwick junior, those around Arch Brown Reserve say running has always been a strength of his. Speaking to Star News in the lead up to the National Draft, Binns explained a reason behind his advanced tank. “There were a few times I would go for 1015 ‘k’ runs just around the streets when I was bored to get out of the house during the tough times, (throughout the lockdowns)” Binns said. “I would’ve done that 10-15 times just to tick the legs over. “It was good to clear my head and get away from school and sport commitments and it did help the mental side of myself.” On Binns’ selection, Carlton Head of List Management Nick Austin said the youngster was the kind of player which the Blues’ coaching staff, led by Michael Voss, would love
Jaxon Binns is now a Blue! to work with. “Jaxon is a quality player and person that we’re delighted to welcome him to our football club via the draft,” Austin said. “His running capacity is seriously impressive, which he demonstrated to full effect for Vic Country on the way to a carnival where he went on and was named as an All-Australian for his efforts. “Jaxon is the kind of person that leaves nothing to chance: he has worked really hard on his craft and enhanced his strengths to make sure
Picture: SUPPLIED that he can be a really effective teammate for whatever side he plays for. Fellow Stingray, big-bodied midfielder and halfback, Henry Hustwaite was picked up by Hawthorn with pick 37, slightly later than predicted. Dandenong’s 2022 midfield coach Josh Moore has seen Hustwaite up close since he came into the NAB League system as a 16-yearold and praised his contested craft. “His hands in close are elite,” Moore said.
“They’re as good as anyone in the draft pool this year, the way he’s able to manoeuvre through stoppages, that is his one-wood.” Hustwaite, who has drawn comparisons to Scott Pendlebury, has an innate slipperiness in traffic, something derived from his basketball background. With question marks over his fitness, Moore has worked closely with Hustwaite and been impressed with his approach. “He was mid-pack in the running and he really wanted to elevate himself to the next level and, with his diligence in preseason, he was able to do that and he built a nice tank so was able to run out games in the midfield,” he revealed. “His actual football craft was always of a high level but he has continued to work on that – it was the minor stuff – fitness, diet, speed training – where he has seen improvements. “He has rounded himself out to be an exciting package for an AFL club.” Meanwhile, it was heartbreak for Dandenong’s other top prospect, Beaconsfield’s Mitch Szybkowski. Seen as a first round prospect entering the season, he drifted as the year wore on but the big-bodied midfielder was still considered a near-certainty to be picked up. The Rays skipper averaged 23 disposals while also playing strong footy for school side Caulfield Grammar, where he won the premiership, and at Vic Country level. Other Stingrays considered draft chances whose names were left on the board included Finn Emile-Brennan and Ziggy ToledoGlasman. Toledo-Glasman, a key forward, will return to the Stingrays in 2023 as a 19-year-old.
Weighty expectations for Weightman in Bulldogs No 3 By Tyler Lewis Three has certainly been the magic number for Cody Weightman this week. First, the former Beaconsfield and Dandenong Stingray made the shift from number 19 – the digit in which he had played his first 40 AFL games in – to the famous Western Bulldogs jumper number 3. His love affair with the number then resurfaced later in the week as he then inked a three-year extension at the Kennel. “I am super pumped to stay here, it is a great place to come and work every day,” Weightman said in a Western Bulldogs media release. “There is an array of reasons why someone would want to stay, it is an exciting young group and we all get along, on and off the field. “It does feel like we are building something special here. “It’s a good time to be a Bulldogs fan and an even better time to be a player, the opportunity prevailed to stay around and it was a no brainer for me. “It was always a childhood dream to play AFL at any club and for the Bulldogs to give me an opportunity for that – it’s still surreal to be honest. “I feel totally blessed by the support and the people that have helped me get here and the Club is a part of that in a big way. “It’s my aim to give back to the Club in any way I can, particularly on field. “To the fans, embrace the excitement around the Club. We are setting the bar really high and we want to get back to a level we know we can be at.” Bulldogs’ General Manager of List and Recruiting, Sam Power, was elated to keep Weightman at VU Whitten Oval into the future. “From the moment Cody walked into the Club, his infectious personality and appetite to improve has been on show within our football program.” Power said in the same release. “Within three seasons, Cody has become 22 STAR JOURNAL
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If Weightman can half as good a career as former number 3 Chris Grant, he will be some player. Picture: AAP MEDIA one of the most damaging small forwards in the competition, while developing a strong relationship with our red, white and blue army. “We’re thrilled as a club to keep him beyond next season, and his early commitment to our program displays the trust he has in the direction of the organisation.” The deal keeps the exciting small forward in his new number until the end of 2025. WESTERN BULLDOGS PLAYERS TO WEAR 3: Chris Grant (341 games) Ted Whitten (321) Arthur Olliver (272) Mitch Wallis (162)
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Tuesday, 6 December, 2022
Cody Weightman with two legendary Western Bulldogs.
Picture: WB SOCIAL MEDIA dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
Positive signs for Maroons By Tyler Lewis North Dandenong coach David Bell is confident that Saturday’s comprehensive win over Narre South is just the start of what his side can achieve going forward. The Maroons piled on 6/241 in the first innings with an even spread of contributors across the board, before dismissing the Lions for just 198. “I think we’re coming around slowly,” Bell said. “We are still throwing away starts and things like that, but they (the playing group) are starting to understand, they’re starting to say the right things. “A couple of the natural sloggers are starting to build an innings rather than hit their way through a problem, they’re willing to fight a bit. “Hopefully we’re going in the right direction with that, because if we can do that, we will be alright.” Despite posting the second-highest score in Turf 1, only one North Dandenong batter (Syed Mehmood) reached 50. In his post-game address, Bell praised the even spread but urged his batters to push on. “I picked out the guys that did well and the ones that it may not look like they did well on the scoreboard, but they are trying really hard in what we are working on,” he said. “I told them to just enjoy it, they (Narre South) are a side that played finals last year and we knocked them off. “It’s the best way to win – if everyone does a little bit – but I would still like to see someone go on and get an 80 or a 90, especially when we play against the really big sides. “We did have a lull, we batted well up to the
Jake Hancock on the drive. 311011 20th over, but between (overs) 20-40 we probably went at three or four an over. “We had them on the ropes, but we didn’t push on through that area, it’s something we need to improve on.” After getting off the mark for season 2022/23, the Maroons now have a difficult pair of upcoming opponents. North Dandenong rolls out the welcome mat to the sizzling hot Hallam Kalora Park next week, before rounding out the calendar year with Berwick. The coach is far from frightened however, revealing that his side is beginning to believe. “The fact is that we can win,” he said. “These guys actually brought up them-
Picture: ROB CAREW selves that they would like to get two in a row, the taste of a win makes a massive difference to everybody. “We have done okay against Hallam (Kalora Park) in previous years as well, so if we can play 75 per cent of our best, we will be in the mix.” Springvale South, meanwhile, has taken the upper hand in the battle for supremacy by defeating Buckley Ridges in the grand final rematch. The Bloods posted 7/249 from its 45 overs with Ryan Quirk (74), Jordan Wyatt (55) and Jackson Sketcher (59) all getting half-centuries. Buckley Ridges could only muster 10/132 in reply after Joshua Dowling snared 3/43 from 11 overs.
Berwick’s boom recruit Jake Hancock found some rhythm in the Bears’ second successive victory. After being a late out last week, Hancock returned to a new role opening the batting in Saturday’s win over St Mary’s. The technically sound top order bat faced 140 balls for a well compiled 86, steering the Bears to 5/208. The Saints never looked promising in reply, falling for just 10/125 in the 42nd over. Talented all-rounder Riley Siwes jagged 5/28 to seal the Bears’ second win in as many weeks. Hallam Kalora Park, meanwhile, is continuing to flex its muscles. The Hawks chased down the Pirates’ first innings score of 154 with five wickets in the pavilion. It could’ve been a far less total to pursuit however, as the Hawks at one stage had the visitors 6/45. It was an unbeaten 52 from number 8 Amman Bajwa that guided the Pirates to a competitive total. Leigh Booth sustained his steady form at the top of the order with 63 in the second dig. TURF 1 LADDER TEAM W L PTS % Hallam Kalora Park 4 0 27 2.5537 Springvale South 3 0 24 3.5986 Buckley Ridges 2 1 18 0.9803 Parkmore Pirates 1 2 12 0.7382 Berwick 1 2 9 1.0162 St Mary’s 0 2 6 0.3822 North Dandenong 0 2 6 0.2978 Narre South 0 2 6 0.2692
Tune up time By Jason Adams
Chris Gayle made 95 not out in the first of the now infamous exhibition matches.
Infamous series of stars hits final hurdle The now infamous Endeavour Hills Cricket Club Twilight Twenty20 series was cancelled before its second and final bout on Sunday due to the rolling storm surrounding the organiser of the event. Nav De Silva, the man who organised the flood of international stars, has been charged with alleged theft and deception of almost $250,000, which was then allegedly used to recruit some of the world’s dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
best cricketers. The first of the two matches was played at Dandenong’s Shepley Oval last Sunday (November 27) against Queensland Premier Cricket side, Western Suburbs. Sunday’s match (December 4) was set to be played out between the Hills and a compilation of Victorian Premier Cricket stars. Endeavour Hills broke the news to its supporters on Thursday via social media.
A number of talented female sprinters had their final hitout at Sandown Park last night ahead of next Thursday’s heats of the time honoured Laurels series. The opening two races were won by Magic Muffin and Responder who both impressed and are expected to compete in the series. “She’s got plenty of ability and that’s exactly what she can do,” said co-trainer Jamie Ennis after Responder’s win. Ennis also intends to target the Laurels with Responder’s kennelmate, Guelph. She hasn’t raced for two months but will trial at Sandown Park on Saturday morning. “She’s only had two starts with us since coming down from New South Wales and also has good ability. If she trials as we expect her to and recovers well she’ll be in next week.” Guelph was super impressive in her first Victorian start when runner-up to Baby Jaycee in early October. Jackpot Joan took out the first leg of the quaddie and overcame a wide draw. She’s a sister to star middle-distance type Dookie Devil. Arguably the classiest of all the Laurels contenders, Kelsey Bale, wasn’t a winner on the night but still impressed when runner-up to My Neo in the night’s Free-For-All. We had to wait until the last race for not only another Laurels contender but for one of the more impressive wins of the night. Ailee Bale won in a fast 29.28 for the Melbourne Cup winning combination of Mark Delbridge and Brendan Wheeler. The Laurels is open to female greyhounds born on or after June 1 2020. Heats are on Thursday with the $50,000 to-the-winner final the following week on December 15.
“We are sorry to report to all that Endeavour Hills Cricket Club has just been informed by Global Talent Entertainment that the second day of the Twilight T20 Carnival will not be going ahead,” the club said in a statement. “Moshtix will be refunding those who have purchased tickets to the 2nd day. Please direct all Twilight T20 inquiries to Global Talent Entertainment.” Tuesday, 6 December, 2022
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