Someintheaudiencecouldn’t bear to watch as Samantha Cutler presented Terry the Eastern Long Neck Turtle at a National Simultaneous Storytime event at Myuna Farm, Doveton. Continuing the slow-paced theme, the kids were enraptured during a reading of The Speedy Sloth with Casey Cardinia Libraries mascot Sid the Sloth.
Samantha Cutler (Myuna Farm) With Terry the Eastern Long Neck Turtle. 334155
Picture: GARY SISSONS
By Sahar Foladi
As part of the motion, council officers will prepare a “program of community education” on the ‘yes’ campaign, enabling “informed decision making” on the upcoming referendum.
Mayor Eden Foster moved the motion in the councilmeetingwhichgainedmajoritysupport
besides Crs Bob Milkovic andTim Dark.
“As the most culturally diverse city in Australia, respect for other cultures is a core value of everyday life in Greater Dandenong and our Council has voted to show leadership through our support of a First Nations’Voice,” Cr Foster said.
The bill to enshrine a Voice to Parliament was introduced to Federal Parliament on 30 March and will be voted on after a debate in June.
If passed, a referendum will put the deci-
sion in the hands of Australians.
Cr Foster said: “Currently we are talking about the Indigenous people not talking with them.
“What we’re doing right now is not closing the gaps and we see that. Our Indigenous brothers and sisters are still struggling.”
Councillor Rhonda Garad stood to support the motion saying the council and its leaders have a responsibility to keep residents informed.
“A recent poll has shown that most peo-
ple don’t even know what a constitution is, let alone know what a vote on a constitution means,” Cr Garad said in the meeting.
“At a local government level we have an important role to play in the provision of information and building civic literacy and understanding of the Constitution.”
The educational program for the community is to be developed in conjunction with the Traditional custodians of the land as part of the recommendation.
Continued page 4
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
Battlelines have been drawn on Keysborough Golf Club’s proposal to relocate from its Green Wedge course and rezone it for housing.
As part of the plan, the club plans to shift to 256-356 Pillars Road, Bangholme and offer a massive 71-hectare sports precinct nearby to Greater Dandenong Council.
The final decision on rezoning the Green Wedge A site would be made by not the council, but Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny.
South East Defenders of the Green Wedge has slammed the potential loss of the golf course as a “critical piece of the South East Green Wedge”, “significant habitat” and “one of the most significant sites of remnant vegetation left in Greater Dandenong”. However, Keysborough Golf Club argues that its site on the edge of the Urban Growth Boundary is “nothing like most people imagine as GreenWedge”.
“It’s an infill site in a middle-ring suburb, surrounded by existing housing and major roads,” club captain Darrell Swindells says.
“Listening to what the Government wants, the best way to solve our housing shortage is infill.
“We don’t think we’re burning too many trees. Our intention is to create a course (in Pillars Road) as good as we’ve got and plant trees as part of the process.”
Defenders of the Green Wedge spokesperson Matthew Kirwan said the new ‘South East Sports Hub’ at Pillars Road made “no sense”.
Except perhaps for the club’s partner developer Intrapac to “open up” the Bangholme GreenWedge, he said.
“It is the heart of the original Carrum Carrum Swamp and flood-prone land.
“It has no public transport accessibility.
“Surely with increasing climate change and
the recent Maribyrnong River flooding episode we know that this land is best left alone.
“Any new development in the Greater Dan-
denong Green Wedge, recreational or otherwise, will need new drainage and upgraded road infrastructure.
“The cost of maintaining (it) particularly in a flood prone environment will be borne by the Greater Dandenong rate payer.”
The new sports hub – nearly the size of Casey Fields – would address an “acute shortage” of outdoor sports facilities for the next 25 years, according to its proponent.
It would include passive outdoor spaces, a landscaped wetlands and a recycled water supply from Eastern Treatment Plant.
Meanwhile, Greater Dandenong councillors voted on 22 May to defer a report on consulting residents in Keysborough South about the proposal.
In the coming week, the golf club will further brief councillors.
Among them was Cr Sean O’Reilly, who commented that after past rebuffs, the club’s plan was likely to land in the “rough” rather than the “fairway of success”.
Mr Swindells said the rezoning was a State Government decision but “if the council are not behind you, you’re pushing uphill”.
“This is about the future of the golf club.”
He said the plan was to keep Keysborough Golf Club as the only golf venue in Greater Dandenong – 1.1 kilometres from its present home.
The sale of its Hutton Road site would allow it to invest in a “modern, accessible” course with more facilities and to promote golf to families and young people, Mr Swindells said.
In 2015, the club signed a 10-year option with developer Intrapac – meaning there was a two-and-a-half year window to rezone.
The originally estimated $40 million windfall to the club would be “probably not as much” but still a “sizeable benefit”, Mr Swindells said.
As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re removing 110 dangerous and congested level crossings, with 70 already gone. We’re also building the Metro Tunnel to run more trains to and from our suburbs and upgrading roads to reduce congestion and improve travel times.
Train disruptions: Buses replace trains in both directions
Pakenham Line Until 31 MayDandenong to Pakenham 11pm 2 June to last train 4 June Caulfield to Dandenong
From 8.30pm each night, 5 to 6 June Caulfield to Pakenham 8 to 21 June
Road disruptions: Closed roads
Cranbourne-Frankston Road, Cranbourne West
Hall Road, Cranbourne West
Evans Road, Cranbourne West
Main Street, McGregor and Racecourse roads, Pakenham
On sections of the line
Until 26 JuneBetween Willow Glen and Ranfurlie boulevards
Until 26 June Between Cranbourne-Frankston Road and Banyan Drive
Until 26 JuneBetween Hall Road and Strathlea Drive
At times in JuneAt the level crossings
Check before you travel at bigbuild.vic.gov.au
A young Noble Park resident will have her first international trip to France for the World Junior Roller derby Championships.
Khodi Carew travelled all the way to Toowoomba, Queensland to try-out for the championship against more than 200 others.
“It’s something i dreamt of and didn’t expect i could actually make it. So when i tried out and i made the team it was huge.”
MsCarewandEdenRobertsfromGippsland Rangers were the only two selected from Victoria to compete in the championships in Valence, France on 28 July.
“There were so many amazing skaters at the try out and from that 20 of us got selected.”
Ms Carew had been hooked ever since she was 9-years old when she went along to watch a game with her friend’s mother playing.
“I’m nervous but I get nervous before every game,” Ms Carew said.
“I know my team is super strong and we definitely have a high chance of winning.”
The 17-year-old will travel with 19 others from across the nation to represent the Australian team in a three day competition.
“It’s one of my childhood dream come true,” Ms Carew said.
Costs incurred for the games will have to be paid personally by Ms Carew. If you can help or donate, email lauren. carew84@hotmail.com
From page 1
Cr Foster said the council was committed to the process of reconciliation and on the eve of National Reconciliation Week, was showing support to the ‘yes’ campaign.
“Greater Dandenong City Council supports a Voice to Parliament as a means to give Indigenous communities a route to help inform policy and legal decisions that impact their lives,” Cr Foster said.
However, the motion stirred a debate on whether the council, as local government, should have a say in this.
Crs Milkovic and Dark argued the council should focus on other issues.
“While I understand the importance of giving my indigenous brothers and sisters a voice in the parliament, it’s what is being defined - and the level of influence and decision making - is what I’ve got a problem with,” Cr Milkovic said,
Cr Milkovic said as a local government they don’t have a say in this, and even suggested councillors with such heavy interest should join the State or Federal Parliament “where they actually have some say
in the matter.”
“We’ve got projects running over time and over budget, we’ve got traders afraid for their lives,” he said.
During the council meeting, multiple traders attended and questioned the council over increase in crime in the area as they’re faced with horrendous incidents resulting in damages to their businesses.
Cr Dark on the other hand labelled the motion as a “woke propaganda” and a “fundamentally flawed motion.”
“What the council supports equals what?” questioned Cr Dark.
“Will we be going out orchestrating a campaign, allocating council resources and council officers as we’ve picked one side of the debate in sending this out?”
Chief executive Jacqui Weatherill responded that the council would also provide information on the ‘no’ case.
Council said they’re committed to the process of reconciliation and on the eve of National Reconciliation Week, support to ‘yes’ campaign will be displayed.
Construction has started on the long-awaited $22 million Keysborough South Community Hub.
The sod was officially turned on the project at Chapel and Villiers roads on Thursday 25 May.
It will be home to a kindergarten, long day care, maternal and child health service, library lounge, community spaces with a commercial kitchen and a playground, basketball ring and amphitheatre.
Greater Dandenong mayor Eden Foster said the day marked a “huge achievement” after seven years of “extensive community consultation” between 2015-’21.
Further public consultation is to come on the hub’s draft strategic plan.
“Our community has been patient as we have worked towards this outcome, and I can’t wait to see it become a much-valued place for all,” Cr Foster said.
“The Hub will be a true asset for our com-
munity, a landmark facility with welcoming and flexible spaces that will serve this community for many years to come.”
Keysborough South Ward councillor Rhonda Garad said it was a “great day” for a “community who has fought tirelessly for eight years to see this project realised”.
The suburb has trebled in population since 2009 - with 15,093 recorded in the 2021 Census.
It has led to a significant demand for community services, particularly for early childhood, according to the council.
The State Government contributed $4 million to the hub, which will offer 123 kindergarten places.This includes kindergarten for 3-to5-year-olds and childcare for 0-to-3-year-olds.
“We’re backing local families with the firstclass facilities they want and need, while ensuring the littlestVictorians get every opportunity for the best start to life,” Early Childhood and Pre-Prep Minister Ingrid Stitt said.
“Our nation leading early childhood reforms are giving moreVictorian children a better start, while putting more money into the pockets of hard-working families and encouraging new parents back into the workforce.”
Mordialloc MP Tim Richardson said the hub would meet the demand for community services, activities and programs for the rapidly-growing suburb.
Melbcon Pty Ltd won the contract to build the hub. Works are expected to finish by December 2024.
The Sikh Community of the world is remembering the sacrifice of Sri Guru Arjan dev ji the fifth Guru of the Sikhs.
His Sacrifice serves as a beacon of hope for humanity in several profound ways.
His martyrdom embodies principles that continue to inspire and guide people, transcending religious and cultural boundaries.
First and foremost, Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s sacrifice demonstrates an unwavering commitment to truth and justice.
He chose to endure immense suffering and sacrifice his life rather than compromise his beliefs or betray his principles.
100 years ago
31 May 1923
Publication Delayed
This week’s publication of the ‘Journal’ has been hampered and delayed owing to the electric power being “cut off” on Wednesday (yesterday) and a quantity of reading matter is therefore held over until next issue. Such troubles are becoming too frequent and mean a considerable loss to many local business firms.
50 years ago
30 May 1973
Big Retail fight looms
Myer’s, Waltons and the Hanover Group are preparing for a major retail war that will soon sweep the Dandenong district. As parcels of land are being juggled to accommodate the big three opposite each other, prices have
This unwavering dedication to truth inspires individuals to stand up for what they believe in, even in the face of adversity.
Secondly, Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s martyrdom highlights the power of resilience and inner strength.
Despite enduring excruciating torture, he remained steadfast in his faith and maintained
spiralled. One small, yet vital block, recently changed hands at the rate of $65 a square foot. By October next year:
• Myer’s $10 million shopping complex facing McCrae Street will be in operation with provision for 100 car parking spaces.
• Across the road Hanover Holdings will have completed a $7 million retail and office complex, with three floors of car parking space.
• Waltons will have five floors - instead of the original two – of retail area, also fronting McCrae Street.
20 years ago
26 May 2003
ALDI eyes market
A supermarket selling cut-price items might make its home in a redeveloped Dandenong produce market. Discount retailer ALDI Supermarkets has approached Greater Dande-
an unwavering connection with the Divine.
His example teaches us the importance of resilience and the ability to find solace and strength within ourselves, even during the most challenging times.
Furthermore, Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s sacrifice promotes the spirit of compassion and unity.
His martyrdom was not only a personal sacrifice but a selfless act for the betterment of humanity.
It serves as a reminder that true leaders prioritize the well-being of others above their own and work towards fostering harmony and inclusivity among people.
Lastly, the sacrifice of Guru Arjan Dev Ji carries a message of hope and endurance.
Despite the immense suffering he endured,
nong Council seeking sites to develop and one possible site is the Dandenong market if it is redeveloped. Greater Dandenong city development group manager Mal Baker said the supermarket had approached council. “They very much want to come to Dandenong.” he said. The supermarket is one of the many proposed suggestions for the market. Some of the concept plans, including larger aisles, were unveiled to the public at a forum in Dandenong last week. Possible changes to the market included aisles measuring 10 metres and five metres wide, an increase in the market’s size from 7500 square metres to 12,345 square metres, an increase in the fruit and vegetable section with the possible inclusion of a sit-down eating area. Mr Baker emphasised the plans were only concepts, in the early stages and did not represent what would happen.
his legacy continues to inspire countless individuals to strive for a better world. His sacrifice reminds us that even in the darkest of times, there is hope, and through perseverance and collective action, we can overcome adversity and build a more just and compassionate society.
In summary, the sacrifice of Sri Guru Arjan Dev Ji provides hope to humanity by exemplifying an unwavering commitment to truth, resilience in the face of adversity, compassion and unity, and the enduring power of his legacy to inspire positive change.
His martyrdom serves as a guiding light, reminding us that even in the most challenging circumstances, hope and the potential for transformation persist.
5 years ago
28 May 2018
Spotlight on Southeast
A young Dandenong leader spoke on behalf of the Southeast at a celebration for the region. The Victorian Governor Linda Dessau hosted the event to highlight the area’s achievements and diversity at Government House on Thursday 17 May. Premier Daniel Andrews said the gathering was to celebrate the South East’s achievements. Aishwarya Pokkuluri, 22 was honoured at the Greater Dandenong Awards for her volunteering work with young leaders. She delivered a speech on behalf of the community explaining that she moved to Melbourne from India as a five year old and now worked as a quality assurance assistant at Cobs Porpcorn in Dandenong South.
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Cost-of-living relief in the 2023-’24 State budget has been given mixed reviews by social support groups.
State treasurer Tim Pallas detailed the social spending initiatives and funding decision of the 2023-‘24 budget at aVictorian Council of Social Services event on Friday 26 May.
VCOSS chief executive Emma King labelled the budget as a “mixed bag”.
“Going into the budget one of the key things we called for was to spare vulnerable and lowincome Victorians and we’re really pleased to see that there have been.
“I think in terms of repayment of Covid-era debt we’re relieved to see that that is not falling on low-income Victorians and that is critical.”
Families will also benefit from free Kinder and three to four-year old kinder programs, the free TAFE and the Power Saving Bonus (PSB) in place now for round four.
However, since the release of the State Budget on Tuesday 23 May, the State Government has been hammered over whether it could have done more, especially with energy bills on the rise.
The Essential Services Commission has set a 25 per cent increase on the default power offer, which will result in an average increase of $325 for households and $752 for small businesses.
The Salvation Army spokesperson Warren Elliot said it meant the $250 Power Saving Bonus only covers a hole rather than providing relief.
“The measures in place around energy relief will obviously help families but the rise in cost of energy bills is set to go up again.”
Mr Elliot said while there’s always more that can be done, some initiatives in the budget should be applauded.
“Salvation Army is part of VCOSS support. We always like to see more help for those struggling in the community.
“There’s one thing alone that we’re pleased to see from Government is more early intervention funding. Kinder funding is part of that early intervention funding for families to reenter the work force.
“We applauded those early intervention funding rather than the severe crisis funding.”
Opposition energy and resources spokesperson David Hodgett, was quick to jump on the spike in energy bills saying Andrews Government has “failed hardworking Victorian households and businesses.”
“These massive price increases come at the worst possible time for Victorians who continue to pay the price for Labor’s incompetence,” Mr Hodgett said.
“Under Labor life keeps getting harder and one-off payments won’t deliver more secure energy supplies or fix the systemic issue in our transmission network.
“A hot shower and a warm home should never be an unaffordable luxury. Victorians need a real plan to deliver an energy system that secures supply and will keep prices low.”
Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams said the Free Kinder, Free Tafe and $250 Power Saving Bonus are in no way insignificant.
“The PSB has been available to people over multiple rounds. This budget funds round four, which means that it has been available for people to claim multiple times, which adds up.”
She said many of the initiatives are “economic enablers” that will deliver in the long term with Free Kinder to save families $2500 a year and Free Tafe can save up to $10,000 depending on the course.
“More than that, free kinder and TAFE facilitate women re-entering the workforce, which is not only good for gender equality, but is good for household incomes and importantly, addresses the retirement poverty too many
women experience (due to impacts on superannuation savings from interrupted careers),” Ms Williams said.
Liberal South Eastern Metropolitan MP Ann-Marie Hermans seized onto ‘harsh’ new taxes, saying Victoria is “broke”.
“As a former teacher, I value education but there will be a cost to local families and children because of Labor’s new (private) schools tax.
“Dandenong’s vulnerable communities will also be hard hit, with higher rents because of Labor’s new property taxes and $100 million cut from vital community health programs that many rely on.”
VCOSS chief executive Ms King acknowledged the “cuts to critical services” but said there have been great investments too.
“We have some concerns that it may impact on the frontline services in the community sector because it’s about how it flows through.
“I would say the employment program under Jobs Victoria has been a stunning success.
“We’re very keen to speak to the Government about what might replace those programs, how the Commonwealth Government might step in, what they’ll put in because they’re critical programs, they’ve been a screaming success and they’ve delivered a real outcome to Victorians so we have to see what the next steps look like.
“On the bright side we’ve also seen some great investments in education particularly, teenagers who are at the risk of dropping out of schools.”
The Salvation Army will continue to call on State Government to work hand in hand with Federal Government to elevate cost of living pressures.
By Sahar Foladi
A majority of the announcements in the State Budget were 2022 election promises such as, building or upgrading schools and hospitals and expanding free Tafe courses.
Here’s a list of what the State Budget has in store for Greater Dandenong residents.
Healthcare and emergency services
· $320 million for initial planning and designs for upgrades at seven hospitals, including Dandenong Hospital and Monash Medical Centre.
· Dandenong Hospital will have an expanded emergency department, new intensive care unit and an outpatient clinic.
· $500,000 for planning a major upgrade at Keysborough CFA.
Jobs
· $17 million to revitalise cultural hubs in multicultural precincts, including Dandenong, support multicultural trader groups and 500 small-business staff scholarships.
· $601 million for 23VLocity trains made at Alstrom’s factory in Dandenong
Mental Health
· Upgrades to youth mental health centres in Dandenong and Frankston.
The State Government has kept election promises for free three-year-old kinder, a new Tech School and school upgrades in the 2023-’24 State Budget.
However it has been accused of “taxing” private schools and not doing enough to retain“burnt out” staff. Among the kept promises were $24.2 million over three years for an upgrade of Hallam Secondary College and $5.34 million for a canteen, playground and sport facilities at Keysborough Gardens Primary School.
At Hallam Secondary College, a competition-grade gymnasium, a new administration building and a new Year 7 to 9 building will be built. “Our investment in upgrades to Hallam Secondary College will increase enrolment capacity by 225 spaces – exactly what our growing community needs,” Narre Warren North MP Belinda Wilson says.
James Cook Primary School and Lyndhurst Secondary College were promised multi-million-dollar upgrades at the state election and received funds for planning.
Six new Tech Schools will be built including in Dandenong and Frankston, joining an existing campus in Casey.They will work with local secondary schools and industry to provide practical, careerlinked STEM education in renewable energy areas such as advanced battery technology, hydrogen generation, as well as robotics and advanced manufacturing.
The Government also will add a further $1.5 billion to expand its free threeyear-old kinder, Best Start and Best Life programs. It will support the Coleman Foundation with its Our Place model at Doveton College.
Berwick MP Brad Battin said the Government was “taxing“ independent schools to solve its “financial mess”.
The Government removed payroll tax exemptions from more than 110 independent schools, leading to fee increases for families, according to the Opposition.
“This desperate and heartless tax grab will see jobs go, increase pressure on the cost of living for many families and will push some schools to choose to cut costs or increase classes, both resulting in worse outcomes.”
The Australian Education Union state branch claimed there was a cut to public school funding and Tafe and a failure to address teacher shortages.
The Government invested a further $204.8 million in attracting and retaining staff, and providing more support for pre-service teachers.
However, AEU state president Meredith Peace said bold reforms and strategies such as retention payments and financial incentives for pre-service teachers were needed.
“We have many public schools in Victoria right now that do not have fully qualified teachers in front of classrooms.
Batteries · $42 million for 100 neighbourhood batteries, including in Greater Dandenong and Casey
Multicultural support
· The Tamil Festival and Tet Vietnamese Festival will receive $400,000 each per annum for 2023-’26
· South East Melbourne Vietnamese Associations Council will receive a one-off $80,000.
· Victoria Tamil Association based in Dandenong will receive $750,000 funding towards its community centre and car park upgrade.
· Viv’s Place and Le Mana Pasifika will receive
continued funding to support their works in the community.
· Le Mana Pasifika will receive $1.53 million to continue supporting more than 2,000 young Pasifika people stay engaged in education and their communities.
· Funding for Turkish Centenary, Serbian Centre in Keysborough and The Ukrainian Association.
· Victoria’s Open Mosque Day will receive $100,000 per annum for 2023-’26.
· Omar-Farooq Mosque in Doveton will receive funding of $50,000 for facility upgrades.
· the $2 million Noble Park Suburban Revitalisation project will continue to be supported.
“Teacher shortages are leaving many students in public schools high and dry without the support they need and contributing to the escalating workloads experienced by existing public school staff, causing them to burn out and walk away from their profession.”
As for Tafe, Ms Peace said: “Fee-free TAFE sounds good in a headline. But the reality is, TAFE in Victoria is not funded for the actual cost of course delivery.”
The ongoing rollout of Free Kinder was bringing many positive changes for children, families and the early childhood education workforce, she said.
Located approximately 35 kilometres to the south east of Melbourne, the City of Greater Dandenong encompasses Bangholme, Dandenong, Dandenong North, Dandenong South, Keysborough, Lyndhurst, Noble Park, Noble Park South, Springvale and Springvale South.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), more than 158,000 people called Greater Dandenong home in 2021.
As the most culturally diverse region in the country, over half of Greater Dandenong’s residents were born overseas at 92,014 people. This has resulted in a rich combination of cultures in the region, with more than two thirds of residents speaking a language other than English at home. The broad variety of foods, practices, traditions and customs means that Greater Dandenong is full of wholesome and interesting experiences.
Of the 20,483 businesses operating in the Greater Dandenong region, the majority industry is transport, postal and warehousing at 4035 businesses, construction at 3385, rental, hiring and real estate services at 1,793, retail at 1681, administration 1465 and manufacturing at 1,400.
As of 2021, industries with the highest proportions of the 114,506 employees in the Greater Dandenong region are manufacturing at 21.8 per cent, construction 11.6 per cent, health care and social assistance at 10.4 per cent, retail trade at 9.3 per cent and transport, postal and warehousing at 7.3 per cent.
The ABS showed that the total number of occupied private dwellings, or homes, in the region is 51,670. The 2020 land area of the Greater Dandenong region is 12,954.7 hectares, according to the ABS.
Showcasing the best of Greater Dandenong, this feature includes things to see and do, places to eat and drink, sport and recreational activities as well as retail and entertainment must-sees.
With venues such as the Drum Theatre and Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre providing rich cultural and creative experiences to the Greater Dandenong region, it’s no wonder that thousands of patrons attend exhibitions, shows and workshops in the area each year.
TheWalker Street Gallery and Arts Centre is funded by the City of Greater Dandenong, and features a band room, performing arts centre and gallery space. The Drum Theatre features a performing arts centre that seats over 520 people inside the former Dandenong Town Hall’s historic heritage facade.
The calendar is also full of cultural celebrations and festivals. Among them are Greater Dandenong Carols, Springvale Lunar New Year, Noble Park Community Fun Day, as well as Nawroz and Khmer NewYear events.
The thriving variety of environments found in the Greater Dandenong region provide a rich and beautiful home for wildlife to live and for residents and visitors to enjoy. Wetland and bush reserves are managed by council, which aims to create a strongly biodiverse environment for all.
Some of the reserves include Tirhatuan Park and Dandenong Wetlands in Dandenong North, Police Paddocks – which adjoins Churchill National Park, Alex Wilkie Nature Reserve in Springvale South, Fotheringham
Reserve in Dandenong,Tatterson Park in Keysborough and Frank Pellicano Reserve in Dandenong South.
Whether you cycle or walk through a variety of beautiful and weaving trails, share a picnic or barbecue with friends and family, take the kids to the playground or go bird and animal spotting, Greater Dandenong offers an endless variety of spaces to explore on your weekends or days off!
With five community gardens and over 20 school community gardens, throughout the region, many Greater Dandenong residents share an interest in gardening and community integration, where members can tend to plants to grow and share food, as well as donate it. It is a great learning opportunity as well as keeping people active and healthy outdoors.
With a total of 30 sporting reserves, the City of Greater Dandenong facilitates more than 100 sporting organizations including AFL, netball, cricket, soccer and rugby.
Get down to Rowley Allan Reserve in Keysborough where you can spend some time in the cricket nets, kicking the footy, playing lawn bowls, trawling the playground or shooting hoops on the netball court. A few of the other sites in the region include Hemmings Park in Dandenong, which has barbecue and picnic facilities, a basketball court, walking or biking trails and a skate park, and Alex Nelson Reserve in Springvale South, which also features a great playground, soccer field and tennis courts.
Have a swim or complete a gym or group
fitness session at the Noble Park Aquatic Centre or Dandenong Oasis, the latter of which also features squash courts.
Parks and sporting facilities in the area also feature dog off-leash areas, pavilions, athletics tracks, fitness equipment, table tennis tables, volleyball courts, a baseball diamond and rugby and hockey fields.
A variety of recent and current upgrades to facilities at Ross Reserve include an all abilities extension to the playground, athletics track reconstruction, new scoreboards, floodlighting, oval and synthetic soccer pitch. Also there’s future upgrades of Springvale Reserve’s oval and cricket nets, and the redevelopment of the WJ Crow Pavilion at Thomas Carroll Reserve.
If you are looking for a hidden gem in the suburbs, you need look no further than Dandenong’s iconic Drum Theatre.
Since opening in 2006, the theatre has celebrated and championed the arts from local performers to worldwide stars and everything in between. Supported by a colourful calendar of exhibitions at the Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre, and a range of workshops and community activities Dandenong is a great destination to explore the arts.
In 2023 the journey continues with a packed
Drum Theatre program bringing entertainment to your backyard.
There’s plenty to entertain the family including Masquerade Youth Productions production of Disney’s FROZEN Kids. Along with Circus fun for all ages in Bon Appetit by Petit Circus.
Theatre lovers can enjoy a great night out with music, drama or ballet on offer, starting with Arthur Miller’s Pulitzer prize-winning play Death of a Salesman. Enjoy the charming classic one-act ballet The Fairy Doll or share
Masquerade
the stories and music of Australian theatre legends Marina Prior and David Hobson in The 2 Of Us.
The Victorian State Ballet will return to the Drum to present The Snow Queen, a classic fairytale by Hans Christian Andersen, but if classic rock is more your style join Echoes of Pink Floyd as they recreate a moment in time.
The Encore Season 2 program has been released and kicks off with acclaimed guitarists The Grigoryan Brothers. All Encore tickets include complimentary morning tea and a parking voucher.
Continue your arts journey at the Walker Street Gallery, where you can see the latest exhibition 9 by 5 until Friday 7 July. Celebrating its 16th year this exhibition is a modern version of an 1889 Melbourne exhibition. This year over 250 works are on display with all artwork available for purchase.
Celebrate the arts in Greater Dandenong with a visit to Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre or The Drum Theatre today.Visit drum. greaterdandenong.vic.vic.gov.au, phone the box office on 8571 1666 or visit greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/arts for more creative fun.
Celebrating over a century of excellence in education, Dandenong High School stands tall as one of the oldest, largest, and most culturally diverse secondary schools in Victoria. With a history that dates back to 1919, the school has been an integral part of the Dandenong community for over a century, and it continues to evolve and grow to meet the needs of its students and the wider community.
As a co-educational school from Years 7 to 12, with an enrolment of approximately 1500 students, Dandenong High School is committed to providing an inclusive and supportive learning environment where all students can thrive. The school’s multicultural nature is a key aspect of its identity, with 77 nationalities and 83 different language groups represented among its student body.
One of the unique features of Dandenong High School is its collaborative teaching and learning model. The school’s seven identically designed Houses provide purposefully designed learning spaces, where students from all year levels can come together to learn, grow and develop a strong sense of belonging and connection. This approach emphasizes collaborative learning and allows for diverse and innovative learning experiences to take place.
The school’s heritage-listed façade of the Administration Building is a testament to its rich history and serves as a gateway to the more modern, architecturally designed learning centres behind. This blend of old and new is symbolic of the school’s commitment to both tradition and innovation.
The new Design Centre is an innovative learning space where students will be immersed in STEM learning, exploring the engineering process and the power of technology, both existing and emerging. The school has recently completed construction of our Food
Technology Wing and Cafeteria, in addition to other specialist spaces such as the Melaleuca Performing Arts and Sporting complex, the Senior Science Wing and the Senior Visual Arts and Media space. These are designed to empower students through discovery and inquiry in a deeply immersive learning environment.
As we look to the future, Dandenong High School is well-placed to continue its proud tradition of excellence in education. With a team of 150 teaching and 65 non-teaching staff, the school is committed to providing a high-quality education for all of its students, regardless of their background or circumstances.
In conclusion, Dandenong High School is a
true gem inVictoria’s education system, and its rich history and multicultural nature make it a unique and valuable asset to the community. As the school continues to evolve and adapt to meet the needs of its students, we can be confident that it will continue to play a vital role in shaping the future of our community and our state.
Club Noble, originally a humble football club, has evolved into a thriving social and sporting hub over the decades. Established in the early 1960s, the clubhouse served as a gathering place for Noble Park football club and Noble Park cricket club patrons. However, through extensive development and renovations between the 1970s and 2000, the club has expanded into the remarkable facility it is today.
One of the primary objectives of Club Noble is to support, promote, and protect Australian rules football, with a particular focus on the Noble Park Football Club. Australian rules football has long been a cherished tradition in the local community, and the club is committed to fostering its character, status, and interests. Moreover, the club aims to extend its support to various other sports and games, such as cricket, angling, golf, tennis, lawn bowls, soccer, and any other lawful competitive activities.
Club Noble’s commitment to the community goes beyond sports. In the last financial year alone, the club made generous community donations exceeding $1.2 million dollars. These contributions have had a significant positive impact on various local initiatives, projects, and charitable organizations. By actively engaging with the community and providing substantial financial support, Club Noble exemplifies its dedication to fostering a stronger and more vibrant neighborhood.
As Club Noble continues to grow and evolve, it remains deeply rooted in its sports heritage and community-centric values. The clubhouse, once a modest structure, now stands as a testament to the club’s commitment to excellence and inclusivity. Whether it is supporting Australian Rules Football or extending a helping hand to community causes, Club Noble is a beacon of inspiration
and unity for all.
Join Club Noble today and become part of a remarkable institution that not only celebrates
sports but also gives back to the community. Experience the camaraderie, excitement, and unwavering spirit that defines this extraordi-
nary club, where sports and community support intersect in the most meaningful way possible.
At St Paul Apostle North School, we believe that education is more than just imparting knowledge; it is about nurturing the mind and spirit of every child.
“We take pride in being a small Catholic school where personal connections are at the heart of our community,” principal Mary Lucas says.
“Every child is known by name and is genuinely cared for by every member of our dedicated staff.
“We understand that Respectful Relationships are not simply concepts we teach, but values we embody in our daily interactions.”
When you choose to enrol your child at St Paul Apostle North School, we see it as a privileged partnership.
Your child is considered to be a precious gift, and we welcome you to join us in their educational journey.
We encourage you to be actively involved in the life of the school, as it not only supports your child’s development academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually but also provides a valuable network of support for your family.
Diversity, wellbeing, and the pursuit of excellence are central to our educational philosophy.
As a caring, inclusive, and progressive school, we create an environment that values and celebrates unique differences.
Modern, flexible learning spaces and outdoor areas are thoughtfully designed to stimulate creative thinking, foster problem-solving skills, and cultivate respectful collaboration among students.
We aim to foster a sense of purpose in our students.
Through our educational approach, St Paul Apostle North School empowers the students to utilise their gifts to make a positive difference locally and globally.
Please call 9700 6068 to schedule an appointment and discover what St Paul Apostle North School has to offer you and your family. Come and witness the way we ignite the mind and spirit, providing a nurturing and inspiring educational environment for each and every child at St Paul Apostle North School.
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• Dandenong North Dunearn Pharmacy 11a Dunearn Road
• Dandenong North Coles Express 166 Heatherton Road & Stud Road
• Dandenong North BP Service Station Heatherton Road & Stud Road
• Dandenong North Dandenong North Senior Citizens Club 41a Latham Crescent
• Dandenong North FoodWorks Menzies Cellars
52 Menzies Avenue
• Dandenong North Menzies Milkbar 64 Menzies Avenue
• Dandenong North IGA Friendly 54 Outlook drive
• Dandenong North Liberty Fuel 182 Stud Road
• Dandenong South Georges Lunch Box 22a Amberley Crescent
• Dandenong South BP Service Station 175-187 Greens Road
• Dandenong South Lunchmaster 3/491 Hammond Road
• Dandenong South Kirkham Road Milk Bar 102 Kirkham Road
• Dandenong South Woolworths Supermarket 81-125 Princes Highway
• Dandenong South Shell Service Station 50 South Gippsland Highway
• Dandenong South United Petroleum 314 South
Gippsland Highway
• Dandenong South Caltex Service Station 275-295 South Gippsland Highway
• Dingley Village Dingley Village Newsagency Shop
• Endeavour Hills Ocean Blue Milk Bar 90/92 John Fawker Drive
• Endeavour Hills Nicholls Gledhill Real Estate 2
Raymond McMahon Boulevard
• Eumemmerring Atura Hotel May-17
Doveton Avenue
• Eumemmerring Caltex Woolworths Service Station
40/44 Princes Highway
• Eumemmerring BP Service Station 60-64
Princes Highway
• Hampton Park Hampton Park Library 26 Stuart
Avenue
• Keysborough Caltex Keysborough 248
Cheltenham Road
• Keysborough Parkmore Shopping Centre 317
Cheltenham Road
• Keysborough Barry Plant Real Estate Shop
1,320 Cheltenham Road
• Keysborough 7 Eleven Keysborough 309
Cheltenham Road & Cnr Kingsclere Road
• Keysborough Woolworths Supermarket 317
Cheltenham Road (Parkmore Shopping Centre)
• Keysborough Coles Supermarket 317 Cheltenham Road (Parkmore Shopping Centre)
• Keysborough O’Briens Real Estate Shop 6, 317
Cheltenham Road (Parkmore Shopping Centre)
• Keysborough City of Greater Dandenong Shop A07, 317 Cheltenham Road (Parkmore Shopping Centre)
• Keysborough Michaels IGA 466 Cheltenham Road
• Keysborough Keysborough Learning Centre 402
Corrigan Road
• Keysborough Foodworks Keysborough 285-289
Supermarket 169 Princes Highway
• Dandenong Caltex Dandenong 154-156 Princes
Highway
• Dandenong Coles Supermarket Dandenong 23-26
Princes Highway
• Dandenong Genesis Fitness Club Dandenong
63 Scott Street
• Dandenong Valley Village Mews 112 Stud Road
• Dandenong Dandenong Basketball Stadium
270 Stud Road
• Dandenong Caltex Star Mart Stud Road & Heatherton Road
• Dandenong Dandenong Lotto 308 Thomas Street
• Dandenong Gulistan Supermarket 187-189
Thomas Street
• Dandenong Quest Hotel 2-Oct Walker Street
• Dandenong McLennan Real Estate First floor, 126
Walker Street
• Dandenong North Foodworks Dandenong North 42-44 Brady Road
2/79 Centre Dandenong Road
• Doveton Doveton News and Lotto 7 Autumn Place
• Doveton Bottle O 2-Apr Linden Place
• Doveton Shell Service Station 48 Princes Highway
• Endeavour Hills Endeavour Hills Shopping Centre
Cnr Heatherton Road & Matthews Flinders Avenue
• Endeavour Hills Woolworths Service Station Cnr
Heatherton Road & Matthews Flinders Avenue
(Endeavour Hills Shopping Centre)
• Endeavour Hills O’Brien Real Estate Shop PS 5A
Cnr Heatherton Road & Matthews Flinders Avenue
(Endeavour Hills Shopping Centre)
• Endeavour Hills Coles Supermarket Cnr
Heatherton Road & Matthew Flinders Avenue
(Endeavour Hills Shopping Centre
• Endeavour Hills Woolworths Supermarket Cnr
Heatherton Road & Matthew Flinders Avenue
(Endeavour Hills Shopping Centre
• Endeavour Hills 7 Eleven Endeavour Hills Cnr
Heatherton Road & Power Road
• Endeavour Hills Endeavour Hills Milk Bar 13
Gleneagles Drive
• Endeavour Hills Endeavour Hills Medical Centre 61
Heatherton Road
• Endeavour Hills Liberty Service Station 13-17
Heatherton Road
• Noble Park North Halton Road Milk Bar 65
Coolavin Road
• Noble Park North Jan Wilson Community Centre
Halton Road (Barry J Powell Reserve)
• Noble Park North Jacksons Road Service Station
139 Jacksons Road
• Springvale Century 21 Real Estate Shop 5-6/64
Buckingham Avenue
• Springvale Springvale Shopping Centre 46-58
Buckingham Avenue
• Springvale KFL Supermarket 46-58 Buckingham Avenue (Springvale Shopping Centre)
• Springvale Springvale Learning & Activities Centre 1
Osborne Avenue
• Springvale Springvale RSL 23 Osborne Avenue
• Springvale Caltex Woolworths Springvale 102
Police Road
• Springvale Aobao
Corrigan Road
• Mulgrave Waverley Gardens Shopping Centre
271 Police Road
• Noble Park Sandown Park Hotel Corrigan Road
• Noble Park Coles Supermarket 1 Douglas Street
• Noble Park Noble Park Newsagency 22
Douglas Street
• Noble Park Harvey Real Estate 26 Douglas Street
• Noble Park Century 21 Real Estate
38 Douglas Street
• Noble Park Ray White Real Estate 42
Douglas Street
• Noble Park Caltex Woolworths Heatherton Rd & Chandler Highway
• Noble Park Noble Park RSL 1128 Heatherton Road
• Noble Park Lucky Star Lotto 1268 Heatherton Road
• Noble Park Cellarbrations 3 Leonard Ave
• Noble Park Noble Park Aquatic Centre 9
Memorial Drive
• Noble Park Noble Park Community Centre
Memorial Drive (Ross Reserve)
• Noble Park Noble Park Bowls Club 56
Moodemere Street
• Noble Park Barry Plant Real Estate 390
Princes Highway
• Noble Park Harrisfield Milkbar 519 Princes Highway
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Customer Service Centre 397-405 Springvale Road
of Greater
• Springvale South Southvale Newsagency 565 Springvale Road
• Springvale South Koh’s Marketplace 162-170 Athol Road (Athol Road Shopping Centre)
• Springvale South BP Service Station Springvale Road & Clarke Road
• Springvale South Springvale Plaza Pharmacy and Tattslotto 3/800 Heatherton Road (Springvale Plaza)
South BP Springvale 974
$
•All advertisements must be pre-paid. For $29.00 you get a 4 line, ONE ITEM ONLY advertisement, restricted to “For Sale” or “Motoring” items only for private advertisers, run initially for 13 weeks or until sold. Additional lines will be charged at $3 per line per publication.
•After your advertisement has run for 13 weeks you must call us each fortnight to renew it for a further 2 week period AND reduce the price of your item by a minimum 5% for items in the “For Sale” section or 3% for items in the “Motoring” section. This process may continue until you have sold your item. If we do not hear from you we will assume you have sold your item and your advertisement will not appear.
• The sale price must be included in the advertisement and the only alterations you may make are to the PRICE of your item.
• Business advertisements, rental hire, pets & livestock and real estate are not included in the offer.
• The publisher reserves the right to decline any booking for the purpose of ongoing gain.
1973 centenary exhibition
‘Optimism, Opportunities and Achievement’ reflects on the 1973 celebrations of the Centenary of Local Government in Dandenong.
· ends 10am-2pm Wednesday 31 May at Benga, Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens, 66 McCrae Street, Dandenong.
Carers walking group
As part of Pathway for Carers Victoria we invite all Carers to come along and share a relaxing walk with fellow carers to get a chance to connect, socialise and learn about services and supports that is available to Carers. The walk goes along an accessible path around Burden Park and is suitable for all fitness levels.
· first Thursday of the month (1 June), 9.45am for a 10am start at Burden Park, 880-924 Heatherton Road, Springvale South. Details: Mala, 8571 1000 or council@cgd.vic.gov.au
Monash Uni Student Theatre presents a stage production of Shakespeare in Love, based on the screenplay by Marc Norman & Tom Stoppard. Suitable for ages 13-plus.
· 1 and 2 June, 7.30pm, and 3 June, 1.30pm (AUSLAN-interpreted) and 7.30pm at Alexander Theatre, 48 Exhibition Walk, Monash University, Clayton; $35/$25.
· Bookings: monash.edu/performing-arts-centres/event/shakespeare-in-love
The Phenomenon Bruno Groning is a documentary film looking back at spiritual healer Bruno Groning and events in 1949. Organised by Bruno Groning Circle of Friends, Circle of Spriritual Aid to Life Inc.
· Saturday 3 June, 11am-5pm (including two intermissions) at Jan Wilson Community Centre, Halton Road, Noble Park North. Free admission, donations welcome. Details: brunogroening-film.org or 0404 837 311. Tree planting day
Bring the family and join us on World Environment Day to plant some seedlings at Fotheringham Reserve. This is a way for the community to take action against habitat loss. Free barbecue lunch. Bring your own gardening gloves.
· Sunday 4 June, 10am-1pm at Fotheringham Reserve, The Des Nolan Pavilion, Alexander
Avenue, Dandenong. Free event. Registrations required: greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/ greater-dandenong-council/events/community-planting-day-fotheringham
Springvale Fresh tour
Want to know where to buy some of the best fresh produce? Join us on our tour of Springvale’s feast of Asian flavours and unique ingredients. The tour is followed by a delicious authentic Asian meal.
· Monday 5 June, 11am-1pm; $50pp. Bookings essential: greaterdandenong.vic.gov. au/greater-dandenong-council/events/springvale-fresh-tour
Vaping concerns
Understanding Vaping webinar with guest speaker Sharon Torpey from Drug Education Victoria. Get up-to-date, accurate information on vapes/e-cigarettes, trends and health risks, and strategies to support young people. Open to anyone including parents, teachers, sports clubs and professionals. Presented by Greater Dandenong, Casey and Cardinia Shire councils, Quit and Monash Health.
· Tuesday 6 June,7-8.30pm. Register at events.
Reconciliation Week celebration with a Welcome to Country and traditional smoking ceremony by a Bunurong elder, hip hop dance by the Indigenous Youth Outreach Project, story-time with a Bunurong elder and art and craft, artefacts, storytelling, book, traditional basket-weaving and dance workshops.
· 9.30am-1pm, Tuesday 30 May at Springvale Commuity Hub. Details: greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/reconciliation-week-2023
teams.microsoft.com/event/1b07bd28c163-491b-b2dc-49c92d48b0ea@fd72cf66868a-4edd-8f84-8e91a618ab7f
Dinner with a VIEW
Dandenong Evening VIEW Club will hold a box and bottle auction at its next meeting and dinner. VIEW stands for Voice, Interests and Education for women and the Club supports the Smith Family’s Learning for Life Program.
· Tuesday, 6 June, 7pm at Dandenong RSL. Bookings essential. Details: Brigitte, 0491 626 527.
Clothes swap
Community members are invited to contribute up to 10 items of clothing, shoes and/or accessories. All items must be clean, in good condition and ready to display on the day.
· Saturday 10 June, 1pm-3pm at Springvale Community Hub, 5 Hillcrest Grove, Springvale. Free event. Details: Zoe, mohlz@icloud.com
Urban harvest
Come and swap excess homegrown produce and gardening extras and meet like-minded growers in the area. Exchange home-grown fruit and vegetables, saved seeds and cuttings, gar-
dening tips, seasonal recipes, coffee grounds, worm juice and gardening books. Supported by The Greater Dandenong Seed Library and the Springvale Community Hub Clothes Swap.
· Saturday 10 June, 1pm-3pm at Springvale Community Hub, 5 Hillcrest Grove, Springvale. Free event. Details: 8571 1000 or council@ cgd.vic.gov.au
Bookings are open for Greater Dandenong Interfaith Network’s 2023 public tours to places of worship on Wednesdays 14 June, 9 August, 11 October, and 13 December 2023. Each tour features trips to four diverse places of worship for $25, plus a lunch for a $10-15 donation. Payment of $25 is required prior to the tour to confirm your booking.
· Details via the Interfaith Network, education@ interfaithnetwork.org.au or 8774 7662.
9x5 Exhibition
Now in its 16th year the 9 by 5 Exhibition proves that small things can have a big impact. Artists from around Australia present their creativity on panels measuring nine inches by five inches in a wide variety of styles.
· Until Friday 7 July at Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre, cnr Walker and Robinson Street, Dandenong. Open Tuesdays-Fridays 12pm4pm. Cost: free
Keysborough and District Multicultural Senior Citizens Club has resumed activities for 2023. Enjoy concerts with professional entertainers such as Ron Kingston (18 April) and Marcia Rae (16 May). Also bingo on 1pm, 1st, 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month, line dancing on Wednesdays 1pm, ballroom dancing including lessons Thursdays 12.30. Membership only $5 until 30 June. Tea and coffee supplied.
· Rowley Allan Reserve, 352 Cheltenham Road, Keysborough. Details: Carol, 9580 6480.
For all ages, experience and abilities. Mats and other equipment available. No Booking required.
· Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9.30am-10.30am at Noble Park Community Centre, Memorial Drive, Noble Park; $5 per class or $40 for 10 classes. Details: programs@nobleparkcc.org. au or 9547 5801
A dramatic final quarter full of twists and turns ended in delight for Berwick on Saturday who survived a late charge from South Croydon to record their second victory of the Eastern Football League Premier Division season.
With just over a minute remaining in the final period, Ashton Williamson was tackled high in the Wickers’ forward 50 on a slight angle, with the chance to retake the lead in the dying stages.
Unfazed by the pressure of the moment, the kick never looked like missing, splitting the middle as it sailed over the goal umpires’ hat to give the home side a four-point buffer.
The last minute of the game resembled a rugby league scrum, with neither side able to gain clear possession until the very last moments.
If you wanted to know what ‘defending like your life depended on it’ meant, Berwick epitomised the expression, fighting and scrapping to stop any chance of a last-gasp winner for the Bulldogs.
Three ball-ups were called in the last minute, with the only clear possession a hack-kick forward from the Bulldogs that trickled towards the boundary line as the final seconds ticked away, with Berwick players leaping into each other’s arms in relief, having secured the 8.8 56 to 7.10 52 result.
Had Williamson missed and the four points been squandered, it would have been a remarkable collapse from the Wickers, who held a 17-point lead midway through the fourth quarter.
At three-quarter-time they had a 21-point ascendency, but South Croydon peppered the face of goal to within an inch of its life early in the last.
Five misses, including one from almost the top of the goal-square, had the Berwick back six under the pump, and in the 16th minute the fortress collapsed, as the Bulldogs grabbed the first of the term to cut the lead to 11.
The anxiety for all those in navy blue would have skyrocketed just two minutes later when the Bulldogs kicked another to be within a kick of taking the lead.
After repeat stoppages in the forward 50, Caleb van Oostveen’s lapse in concentration saw his opponent wriggle free and shark a hitout on the run, before finishing truly.
Fourth quarters have not been kind to Berwick this season, having conceded a 21-point lead to Doncaster in round three to fall by two points, and being held scoreless against Rowville last week when the scores were tied at the final break.
With five minutes remaining, the Bulldogs hit the lead.
After repelling a series of deep forward entries, a defensive breakdown allowed a South Croydon forward to be unmarked in the forward 50.
Despite the tight angle on the Manuka Road side of the ground, the forward held his composure to give the Bulldogs the advantage.
Nick Hillard’s desperation save on the goalline prevented South Croydon’s lead from growing a minute later, after his diving effort rushed a behind from a would-be miracle goal attempt from the boundary line.
Having won the ball back, Berwick were aware of what was required.
They went long down the middle from the kick-out and tried to move the ball quickly, but came unstuck around half-forward.
A vital one-on-one win from Deng Andrew on the wing saw him go inboard to a flying Lachlan Vaughan at half-forward.
They surged the ball inside 50 and a scrap for the Sherrin ensued.
The ball inched and crawled its way around the Berwick goalmouth for nearly a minute before the critical South Croydon error that resulted in the free-kick to Williamson, who kicked his third.
Of all players to put the dagger in the heart of the Bulldogs, Williamson’s role in the finale was fitting.
He kicked the opening two goals of the game for Berwick in quick succession, having drawn the ire of his Bulldogs opponents.
He was held off the ball at a forward 50 stoppage and converted a simple set shot, before
letting his opponent know of his mistake and finding himself slung to the ground in front of an umpire, who awarded him with a second kick on goal from the same position as his first.
Despite making the goal umpire shuffle to their right and consult with the field umpire, the kick was awarded the maximum value, and the Wickers were away.
In a contest where key forward and leading goalkicker Charlie Muley was held goalless, Berwick’s other forwards provided an avenue to scoreboard ascendency.
Defender-come-forward Anthony Vella’s positional switch continues to pay dividends, kicking two after his haul of three last week against the Hawks, while Harrison Money made a welcome return from injury by hitting the scoreboard himself.
The two combined for the third goal of the contest, with Money kicking long to Vella deep in the pocket, who navigated two oncoming defenders to nail a masterful check side snap from an acute angle.
The much-needed win for Clint Evans’ men breaks a run of five consecutive losses and gives them a four-point and percentage gap between them and the dreaded relegation zone.
They’ll face a serious test to maintain their winning form next week when they travel to Balwyn to battle the ladder-leading Tigers.
Another bag of goals for Lachlan Wynd has helped Rowville power their way to an upset 57-point win over the high-flying Doncaster East.
Wynd’s dominant season continued, kicking six to take his tally to 30 from six games as the Hawks kicked 10 goals to three in the second half to overpower the Lions on their home turf.
His dual-threat versatility as the Hawks’ ruck when the ball enters the forward line presents another challenge for opposition coaching staff to handle.
At 201 centimetres, his long reach means he is rarely out-marked, and his mobility and body positioning in the ruck presents a significant obstacle for opposing big men.
His first three goals on Saturday were earned through free kicks while rucking, and his fourth was a result of a free-kick in a marking contest.
His fifth and six, however, saw him outmuscle his key defensive opponents with strong contested marks.
He leads the competition’s goalkicking tally, seven clear of Vermont’s Adrian Kalcovski on 23.
While the Hawks benefited from the Lions’ inaccuracy, (Doncaster East kicked 6.14 to Rowville’s 16.11), 27 shots on goal to 20 showed a classy performance from the Hawks.
Eight individual goal-kickers, including three who nailed multiple in Wynd, Jake Arundell and Kurtis Flakemore, showcased their firepower that took them so far in 2022.
After a shaky opening to the season, Rowville appear to be back on track having won four of their last five contests, and kicked their highest team score of the season on Saturday while restricting the Lions to their second-lowest points conceded.
With a win-loss record of 4-3, they join four other premier division sides stuck in a logjam in the middle of the table, in Doncaster East, Norwood and their emerging rivals in Noble Park.
The Bulls had the chance to break free of that crop and move to 5-2, but relinquished a fast start to fall 34 point short againstVermont.
The Bulls led at the first two breaks of the game but only kicked four goals after half time to the Eagles’ 10, defeated 10.3 60 to 15.7 97.
Where the Hawks have hit a run on form in the last month, the reigning premiers have some work to do to rediscover their best.
Of their last five contests they have only two wins to show for their efforts, with one against second-bottom placed Doncaster and the other a nervous win over South Croydon by four points.
A battle against bottom-placed Park Orchards will offer a chance to regain some winning form.
Rowville, meanwhile, host Norwood at Seebeck Oval.
A clinical shooting performance from Dandenong Rangers’ men helped them snap a 10game losing streak on Saturday night, downing Kilsyth by 34 points at home in the NBL1 South competition.
The Rangers shot above 50 percent on both overall field goals (57 per cent) and three-point shots (51), while making 11 from 14 free-throws in the 107-73 demolition that was their equal highest team score of the season.
With the scores tied at 31 at the end of the first quarter, the Rangers were dominant on both ends of the floor in the remaining three periods, outscoring their guests 76-42 in that period.
Led by 25 points each from Harrison Bowater and Deng Puoch, Dandenong scored the opening nine points of the second quarter to establish a quick lead.
But just as quickly as they built the buffer, the Cobras managed to close it with some hot shooting of their own.
The Rangers closed the half on another run, with Puoch and Jack Roberts the stars
of the show.
Pouch was on fire, nailing threes and driving to the lane with ease.
When the Rangers missed shots, their tenacity on the offensive glass was infectious and contributed to their domination.
While at the other end of the floor, a 14 rebound discrepancy highlighted their commitment to nailing the basic principles of defence.
The longer the game went, the more the Rangers were making Kilsyth pay from beyond the arc.
In what has been a tough season for Dandenong, they took the opportunity to express themselves and have some all-important fun on the court.
No better was this exemplified than when Jesse Ghee dribbled around his back on a fast break and attempted a scooping layup high off the glass that saw the ball sail over the backboard, only for a trailing Jack Roberts to grab the ‘pass’ and finish under the rim.
All five of Dandenong’s starters scored in double figures, however the win was not enough to lift them off the bottom of the
NBL1 South ladder, given their dismal winning percentage of just 21.4.
It was a similar story for the Rangers’ women who took care of business in the first half and hardly looked back in their 89-69 win over the Cobras.
After two quarters the Rangers had themselves a 45-31 lead, and despite being outscored heavily in the third quarter, a miserly 11 points conceded in the last meant their was little threat to their scoreboard advantage.
Nyadiew Puoch, fresh off being named in the Australian Opals’ squad to play in next month’s FIBA Women’s Asia Cup, led the Rangers in scoring with 24 points and six rebounds.
The Rangers travel to Keilor next weekend to face the Thunder.
Nyadiew Puoch led the Dandenong women in scoring once again,against Kilsyth. 332097
Picture: DANDENONG BASKETBALL
Cranbourne has dispatched Springvale Districts at a typically windy Livingston Reserve.
In what was an opportunity for the Demons to compete with a premiership contender, they had the wind in the first quarter but were still acclimatising to the ground.
Daniel Helmore kicked Springvale Districts’ only goal of the first quarter as the forwards emptied out and allowed him to get one-out over the back.
He bobbed up for some moments but largely Cranbourne’s intercepting work, along with midfield ascendancy, prevented Springvale Districts from ever seriously threatening.
Eagles captain Brandon Osborne took care of Matt Wetering, who was limping in the second half after a minor rolled ankle.
The former Collingwood VFL player managed just one goal for the afternoon and the attack clearly lacked a secondary presence.
Osborne’s fellow defender Andrew Green provided run, rebound and excitement.
A Northern Territory teenager, he represented the NT Thunder Academy in the Talent League last month and unsuccessfully trialled for a position on Oakleigh’s list in preseason.
He’ll be at Livingston for the rest of the season.
Zak Roscoe put in another shift to lead the midfield, his five goals reward for contest-tocontest running.
Marc Holt chipped in with three and set a few more up for his team while Kirk Dickson was the focal point with two goals.
Forward pressure and discipline were among the focuses coming into the game off the back of a surprise loss to Port Melbourne last week.
Dingley, meanwhile, put it together for four quarters against Chelsea Heights, led as usual by the strong midfield.
In Division Two, Hampton Park got the better of Skye by 31 points in a high-scoring clash.
A six-goal opening quarter set up a 37-point lead for the Redbacks which they were able to maintain throughout the match to get the win in veteran Luke O’Brien’s 150th match.
Trent Thomas kicked five to lead the victory while five others scored multiples as Makaio
Haywood ran rampant in the midfield.
Joel McConville was typically strong for Skye while Brett Dawson played the best game of his season.
Doveton got its third consecutive victory and fourth of the season, completing the tough assignment of beating Caulfield on their deck.
Cam Williamson kicked five of his team’s 15
goals while Jake Basa was hard nosed as Dylan Chapman fed it down his and Shannon Henwood’s throats.
East Brighton was kept to its lowest score of the year by Keysborough.
The visitors led two goals to zero at the first break before conceding 10 of the last 11 to lose by 46 points.
DIVISION ONE
Dingley: A lot of people would say the premiership favourite. If they weren’t losing a host of players to overseas trips, that title would be hard to dispute. Regardless, they’ll be there or thereabouts when the whips are cracking, having been outstandingly coached this season under newbie Zach Horsley. They’re no longer go, go, go; they have gears and it hasn’t taken them long to understand how to use them effectively. All of the following players are at Souter Oval all season which makes for a hard midfield to stop: Lucas Walmsley, Nathan Freeman, Lochie Benton, Jackson Peet.
Springvale Districts: A clear tier above the bottom rungs of Division One, improved on last year but still unlikely to do damage in September – if they qualify. It would seem that fifth position will come down to them and St Paul’s McKinnon, but in their three games against stronger opponents they haven’t shown enough to suggest they’ll do anything other than qualify. It’s a new look midfield, whose fortunes have mirrored the results, while Matt Wetering has generally run rampant up forward but needs help from another big man.
Cranbourne: Lost a few from the premiership side but that’s effectively been evened out by the rise and rise of Zak Roscoe, returns from injury of key contributors such as Dylan Cavalot, and Dillan Bass returning to the club. Really hard to pick a fault in the Eagles lineup: the midfield would run rings around most, and they have probably the best full back-full forward combo in Brandon Osborne and Marc Holt. Rarely do they leak a big score and the midfielders are hitting the scoreboard more in 2023 which puts them firmly in what is widely regarded as the top three, alongside Cheltenham and Dingley.
Keysborough: It is impossible to express how much Jojo Ofosu-Amaah’s scary injury and the subsequent fallout would have affected the club. Only those at the Burra would know
that, but they should be able to reset and go again next year, hopefully with an injection of youth. Black Rock, which they defeated comfortably, are really struggling so will likely be the team relegated, not Keysborough. Hampton Park: The smokey. Realistically, no one who has watched any Southern Division Two footy believes that it won’t be East Brighton holding the premiership trophy aloft. But the biggest challengers would be Hampton Park and Murrumbeena. New coach Hayden Stanton has come in and set standards. The runners provide an outlet and silky skill coming out of the backline, while there’s enough different avenues to goal. Makaio Haywood has taken his footy to another level and we all know what Liam Myatt can do. The key draw-
back is the lack of height all over the ground and you sense that, until that is rectified, they will always be found out in some way.
Doveton: The hardest lineup to get a read on. A poor first month followed by three consecutive wins over similarly placed teams including Caulfield at Caulfield – the hardest task in DivisionTwo footy.Was the start of the season an anomaly...bearing in mind the absences of Dylans - Chapman and Bowmanamong others?The insertion of veterans such as Michael Henry and addition of speed and excitement in the form of Ricky Johnson’s improvement and Brodie Howie’s return makes them stronger on paper. The glass-half-full approach says premierships aren’t won in May and the form is building as continuity
returns. The absence of Michael Cardamone on-field intrigues though, while Jimmy Pattinson has played only three games, meaning two fewer avenues to goal than expected in preseason.
Skye: Aaron Pacey wanted to return and instil some respect and that’s exactly what he has done. Currently sit in the 3-6 range alongside Doveton, Highett and Caulfield. Jarrod Sullivan, Joel McConville and Brad Dyer are among the players that have delivered and it sets a foundation. This season looks like one that we might look back on and say is the start of something bigger if they can sustain their current trajectory but there is still some pieces that, if they can get, would make them even stronger.
