EHD Star Journal - 1st August 2023

2000-tree planting

Thunder still rumbles

Deep-fried discord

By Sahar Foladi

City of Greater Dandenong councillors say a ban on deep-fried ‘dimmies’ and chips should be abandoned after a strong public backlash.

As reported by Star Journal on 5 June, the council rolled out the ban on new deep fryers in sport club’s canteens and kitchens in pursuit of healthier menus.

Greater Dandenong community strengthening director Peta Gillies said clubs can still use built-in deep fryers if they’re provided.

“However freestanding benchtop deep fryers pose a safety risk to our community as they do not come with required exhaust fans nor grease traps, so cannot be used.

“Clubs that wish to sell fried food from kitchens that do not have a built-in deep fryer are advised to use air fryers instead, which is a healthier option and can be safely used on a kitchen benchtop.”

Cr Rhonda Garad said the council’s statement on the issue was giving “mixed messages”.

“While they say there’s no ban, I think to use the word ’encouraged’ is being interpreted as a ban.

“The council needs to stop strong-arming these sporting clubs, it’s an over-reach, unnecessary - and it could compromise the viability of these clubs.“

Cr Garad, who is also a public health researcher, says people should be given the option to choose with the healthy option provided alongside.

“There’s no evidence that eating chips on

Saturday by kids being very active is causing harm. Council should listen to the sporting clubs.

“I don’t support this change when we haven’t provided a viable option,” she said

“Air fryers are not commercially equal to deep fryers in the amount of food and the time they can produce the food.

”There’s a preference for fried chips. I think people should have that choice.”

Cr Jim Memeti said he’s received countless messages and phone calls from residents to voice their frustration with the ban.

“The clubs are confused as to what’s happening. Some are told that this will be phased out and then council say it won’t be phased out.

“So it’s confusing not only for the public but also the council.”

Dandenong Thunder Soccer Club’s kitchen at George Andrews Reserve recently received a council makeover and was handed back without a built-in deep fryer.

Dylan Korcari, the club’s marketing director, said the reveal came with a disappointment.

“The new kitchen is very spacious and easier to access as well but there’s no built-in fryer. I understand the promotion of healthy eating lifestyle but this is the wrong move.

“As a club you’ll be forced to close because the people are there for the experience. When people order chips it has to be deep fried.”

The club attracts as large as 2,000 people who make their way to watch the game and enjoy hot fried food.

Continued page 4

DenisKukli,CrJimMemetiandBardhimIsmailiattherecentlyrenovatedkitchenatGeorge AndrewsReserve-withoutadeepfryertocookhotchips.

Picture:SUPPLIED

Evidence revealed

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Premier Daniel Andrews says he had“no recollection” of controversial developer JohnWoodman raising planning matters with him, an IBAC report has noted.

The Premier’s private evidence to the Operation Sandon inquiry was summarised in the Operation Sandon report tabled on 27 July.

Andrews told IBAC he had “no recollection” of Woodman and his associates raising planning matters with him, such as at Progressive Business ‘Premier and Cabinet’ dinner fundraisers for the ALP.

Woodman famously bid more than $10,000 at a political fundraiser to win lunch with the Premier.

According to Woodman’s ALP lobbyist Phil Staindl, discussion of planning issues was embargoed at the lunch.

“He instead characterised it as a relationship-building exercise,” IBAC reported.

Andrews’ evidence was at some odds with Staindl about a conversation between the lobbyist and the Premier at a function.

According to Staindl’s phone-tapped retelling to Woodman, “the Premier praised Mr Woodman’s contribution to the Labor Party and lamented the fact that Mr Woodman was being pursued with allegations of corruption by a journalist who was an ‘arsehole’,” IBAC stated.

“Mr Staindl said the Premier asked him to apologise to Mr Woodman for the Minister for Planning’s deferral of their decision on Amendment C219 because of those allegations (in The Age in late 2018).”

Staindl also claimed the Premier wanted to call Woodman, so he gave Woodman’s phone number to the Premier.

At IBAC, Andrews did not dispute he may have had a conversation with Staindl but stated that he could not recall if he did, or even whether Staindl was at that event.

However parts of Staindl’s account did not “ring true” or “sit well” with Andrews.

“He stated that it was not his practice to speak about journalists in the terms alleged”.

Andrews said it was highly unlikely he would have asked Staindl to convey an apology to Woodman, or that he would have called Woodman to talk about a planning application, IBAC reported.

IBAC noted Staindl may have“embellished” the account to Woodman but found that Andrews made reference to The Age article, the planning decision’s deferment and that he “invited Mr Staindl to convey to MrWoodman his regret that this occurred”.

On the day of the report’s release, Andrews noted that IBAC found he was not the subject of “adverse commentary”.

On the‘arsehole’ tag, he said“I am not in the habit of referring to journalists in those terms”.

He said he was unsure when he first met Woodman – who has claimed he knew Andrews since the Premier had “pimples”.

“I don’t know what my complexion looked like at the time or when it was.

“I don’t have a relationship with him.”

He also didn’t haveWoodman’s number, nor did he think he rangWoodman.“I don’t know if I ever had his number. I don’t speak to people

Woodman denies all

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Springvale-raised developer John Woodman has denied he “improperly” sought to influence Casey councillors in IBAC’s Operation Sandon report.

According to IBAC, councillors Ablett and Aziz received more than $550,000 each from Woodman and promoted the developers interests in Casey planning decisions such as Amendment C219, the H3 intersection and Pavilion Estate.

about individual planning matters – I just don’t do it.”

Andrews highlighted the “shameful” “suitcases of cash” handled by “Liberal councillors in the City of Casey” detailed in the IBAC report.

“We sacked the Casey Council of course and I think we were right to do that.

“I behave appropriately at all times. Any donations made to my party are properly and transparently declared in line with the rules.”

When asked about his private IBAC hearing, Andrews said public hearings were held where there was a reasonable suspicion of corrupt conduct.

“I haven’t done anything wrong.”

Opposition leader John Pesutto stated the “damning report shines further light on the culture of secrecy, cover-ups, cosy relationships, dodgy payments and favours for mates that’s flourished under Daniel Andrews”.

“The Premier won’t apologise for cancelling the Commonwealth Games but he’s happy to apologise to a property developer who paid thousands of dollars to get access to him.”

Crs ‘incapable’ of planning decisions

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Greater Dandenong councillors say they have a “vital role” in planning decisions, in the wake of an anti-corruption report into Casey Council.

The council would review the IBAC Operation Sandon recommendations with “significant interest”, mayor Eden Foster said.

Among the 34 recommendations was to take planning decisions out of councillors’ hands. Instead they should be made by independent expert panels at council, according to IBAC.

Its deputy commissioner David Wolf said the“complexity and technical capability to deal with planning matters is beyond councillors”.

He also noted their “corruption vulnerabili-

ties”, as well as the“enormous” amount of time required to assess planning applications.

Casey councillors stated they didn’t have time to be across the detail of planning applications, the IBAC report stated.

One of them was its most experienced councillor Wayne Smith, who had “crucial” casting votes on some planning decisions relating to developer John Woodman.

According to IBAC, Smith “often did not read the voluminous Casey Council planning papers, instead preferring to follow Councillor (Sam) Aziz’s lead because he had confidence in Councillor Aziz’s judgment on those matters”.

IBAC found that Aziz received about $600,000 fromWoodman while supporting the developer and associated entities in planning decisions.

In 2022, Greater Dandenong introduced a register for councillors to declare their meetings with developers and lobbyists over proposed land use changes and developments.

However, the register is only voluntary.

Cr Foster said the council “awaits with interest” the State Government’s planning reforms.

“Greater Dandenong City Council feels strongly that it has a vital role to play in the decision-making process on town planning matters within its municipality and is the most appropriate level of government to know and represent the interests of its community.”

In Greater Dandenong, the state’s Planning Minister is already in charge of planning controls for larger developments in Dandenong’s CBD.

Cr Foster said it was part of the “State Government’s investment strategy for this area” but didn’t comment on its impact.

Greens councillor Rhonda Garad said “we should all be greatly concerned about losing planning from councils”.

“We are losing our local voice and our democratic rights.

“Giving this power to the state means we lose the right to have a say. We all need to fight this.”

Liberal councillor Tim Dark said the switch to independent planning panels would be “disappointing”.

He partially agreed with IBAC that some councillors had “little understanding” of planning requirements.

“But for those that do (understand) on council, it’s disappointing.

“We’re the closest to the ground on what’s going on.

“If the Government put in planning panels, there needs to be significant consultation with all stakeholders. Objections by residents need to be taken seriously.”

Premier Daniel Andrews has indicated that the role of local councils in “significant planning decisions” should be reduced.

“To have part-time councillors making decisions to turn, say, farmland into a new suburb where you’re talking about vast amounts of money – there’s clearly a risk that things can go wrong there.

“There are a lot of councils not making decisions at all. VCAT is having to make all their decisions. (The councilors) say no, no, no even though council officers are saying we should do this.”

Municipal Association of Victoria president David Clark warned the Government not to shift planning powers into the “backrooms of Spring Street”.

He said this was an opportunity to improve transparency and accountability in the planning system.

“With the report clearly stating that corruption risk cannot be resolved by transferring responsibility from elected councillors to a minister, it would be a travesty for the Andrews Government to use the findings to centralise planning powers within the backrooms of Spring Street.”

For Ablett, Woodman paid partshares in a race horse, credit card debts, legal fees as well as in-kind engineering, survey and planning work on Ablett’s Curwen Road property. He also allegedly paid Ablett more than $200,000 for managing the ‘family equine interests’ and vet costs and $168,812 for Curwen Road. Meanwhile, Aziz was paid more than $600,000 – on top of $600,000 that Aziz handed to Woodman in the form of ‘cash in a suitcase’. Both councillors have denied wrong-doing.

IBAC claimed Woodman also “improperly influenced” two other councillors with indirect support such as donating to election campaigns or causes benefting the councillors. In his submission to IBAC, Woodman responded that none of the benefits he provided were illegal or improper. Woodman denied having a “core group of councillors” to support his interests.

“FollowingJune2016Watsons(Woodman’s company) had no involvement in planning at the local government level, only state government,” he submitted.

“The evidence is that any influence by Mr Woodman as a consultant was for the proper decisions not improper associated with C219, Brompton Lodge, H3 Intersection and Pavilion Estate.”

However IBAC rejected Woodman’s arguments. “For over a decade, Mr Woodman improperly sought to influence councillors to facilitate favourable council decisions,” IBAC stated.

Aziz and Ablett supported the projects and failed to declare conflicts of interest on “many occasions”, it found.

“This conduct was able to flourish unchecked because the City of Casey Council lacked adequate safeguards to ensure core standards of integrity were met.”

At state government level, Woodman sought to influence by“paying lobbyists” and“cultivating relationships” with MPs, ministers and political staff, IBAC found. He donated generously to party coffers as well as nearly $170,000 to ALP and Liberal candidates’ campaigns in 2014 and 2018 state elections. Woodman also covertly supplied close to $100,000 for 11 ‘friendly’ Casey Council election candidates’ campaigns in 2016, IBAC found.

Save Cranbourne West Residents Action Group was financed by developer Leightons - which hired Woodman as a consultant - and was directed behind the scenes by Woodman and his associates.

SCWRAG president Ray Walker and his spouse received $190,000 in consultancy and data-collection fees fromWatsons and a Woodman associated Schutz Consulting. The rewards of success were high. If Amendment C219 was approved, 123 hectares of industrial land in Cranbourne West would become housingand worth $35 million more. Woodman stood to gain a $2 million success fee.

Woodman’s legal attempts to halt the tabling of the IBAC report came to the end after a Victorian Supreme Court of Appeal dismissal on 24 July. On 31 July, Woodman was set to lead a select media conference. According to a media alert ahead of the presser, Woodman was part of a “group of victims whose lives have been ruined forever by IBAC’s reckless and dishonest actions during Operation Sandon”. It cited the “tragic suicide” of former mayor Amanda Stapledon, who took her life in early 2022.

Premier Daniel Andrews, pictured, gave evidence to IBAC about developer John Woodman. 324564 Picture: MATT MALE

Medicinal cannabis push

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

A State Government trial allowing medicinal cannabis users behind the wheel would be a “breakthrough”, says former Greater Dandenong mayor Roz Blades.

Ms Blades has been using medicinal cannabis oil to manage chronic pain for three-anda-half years.

The cannabidiol (CBD) oil she uses is supposedly devoid of the psychoactive ingredient THC (Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol).

But even trace elements of THC can be detected at roadside drug tests.

UnderVictorian law, a valid prescription for medicinal cannabis is no defence for a driver detected with THC in their system.

Penalties include a mandatory suspension and fines.

In the meantime, Ms Blades has been forced to rely on public transport or her husband to drive her about.

“Not everyone has somebody to drive them, not everyone has public transport options and they are in pain.

“Either you drive on a plethora of other (pain-killing) drugs that you’re allowed to or you drive illegally on medicinal cannabis.”

For more than 50 years, Ms Blades had managed chronic pain with medications such as Mersyndol, Forte, Tramal, Pallexia, Lyrica and Gabapentin – and driven without incident.

However, medical cannabis didn’t cause the side-effects of some of the pharmaceuticals, such as “brain fog” and other life-long issues, she said.

“I was comatose on pain meds.”

In 2021, she made an impassioned plea to a State Parliament inquiry for law-makers to drop the driving ban.

The Herald Sun recently reported that the State Government was working on an Australia-first select trial for a small number of me-

dicinal cannabis users to drive if they are not impaired.

Ms Blades said this was big news for large numbers of people with chronic pain.

“This is a huge thing. This is a breakthrough,” Ms Blades said.

“You’re able to drive to work and not be in pain. You’re safer on the road, not on medications with side-effects. Your mental health is better.

“It’s much more far-reaching than just not being able to drive.”

Legalise Cannabis Victoria MP David Etter-

shank has also been pressing for a trial “without delay”.

“There are heaps and heaps of people taking opiates, benzos and other drugs because they are terrified of being caught driving with medicinal cannabis.

“It’s an illogical situation that the law is forcing them onto a more debilitating alternative.”

He tells of a medicinal-cannabis user who thought he was “safe” got picked up for drugdriving and lost his job.

And two other drivers picked up for their second or third offence facing potential prison

or an extended loss of licence.

“In none of those cases was anyone tested for impairment.”

He said there were also prescribed cannabis products containing THC. In those cases, there could be a four hour window of impairment but the THC could be detected on a roadside test up to 14 days later.

“The data from abroad is clear that there is no correlation between legalising cannabis and increased road accidents, the trial gives an opportunity to put these concerns to bed.”

Former mayor Roz Blades supports a mooted trial to allow medicinal cannabis users to drive.

Fury over diversion

By Sahar Foladi

Businesses in Progress Street Dandenong will be forced down what they say is a dangerous temporary detour during a level-crossing closure project.

Ahead of the works to build a road bridge connecting Fowler Road and Progress Street, more than 5,000 trucks, A Doubles, B Doubles, Australia Post vehicles and cars will be diverted down the narrow Hallam Valley Road.

This temporary solution is despite the frustration from nearby businesses as demonstrated by the 765-signature petition tabled in State Parliament.

Andrew Hamer, managing director of Pakaflex located on Progress Street, has been advocating against the level-crossing closure as the group’s spokesperson.

“If Fowler Road is unworkable and a disaster, Hallam Valley Road is 10 times worse.

“You have two bad features of HallamValley Road, the first is the intersection at the end of the road to South Gippsland Highway.

“The other is the hump bridge that is not wide enough for two trucks to pass on each side.”

The project’s authority LXRP has not stated the duration of the temporary route. But Mr Hamer believes the detour will run for six months.

“The LXRP will continue to keep the community and nearby businesses up to date as the project progresses,” an LXRP spokesperson said.

“LXRP has conducted safety assessments on this project and will continue to do so throughout the planning, construction and completion phases, with the design ultimately endorsed by the road management authority.

“The project will ensure the temporary detour arrangements will be both safe and functional to the satisfaction of the road management authority.”

The timing of the closure is yet to be finalised.

It’s unclear whether the Australia Post sorting centre’s private emergency exit will be used as part of the detour onto Hallam Valley Road.

“Australia Post has raised concerns around the proposed temporary detour and requested further information from LXRP on how traffic safety and congestion will be managed,” an Australia Post spokesperson said.

“As always the safety of our people is our primary concern including the movement of vehicles from our facility onto surrounding roads both during and after construction.”

Yugo Driving School located on HallamValley Road provides driving lessons to trucks, A doubles, B Doubles and semi-trailers.

Its director Rebecca Radisavljevic said they’d only found out about this solution from

Mr Hamer and questioned how this road was able to take on extra load as the industrial area is busy as it is.

“We have 20 trucks go in and out several times a day.

“WedoVicRoadstesting,it’sBdoublessemitrailers, trucks, buses many times throughout the day to satisfy VicRoads requirements. We can’t stop that at all not even for a day.

“It can create a lot of danger if traffic management is not done properly.”

She said it takes five minutes with local traffic to exit out of HallamValley Road.With extra traffic, students will have to do more waiting on the road than driving in the one-hour lesson.

“Fridays are impossible. From 2pm any day of the week it’s chaotic out there.

“Turning right you might be sitting there 10 to 15 minutes waiting in queue.”

Yugo Driving School has a policy that prohibits their trucks turning right onto South Gippsland Highway due to the danger.

“I don’t think (the temporary detour) is an option. There’s not enough gaps in the traffic to enable such a big community to come through. It’s just not going to work.”

The hump bridge on the road is another major concern for businesses including Ms

Alleged child-stealer charged

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

A Dandenong man has briefly faced court, accused of the theft of a vehicle with a two-yearold child inside in Dandenong on Monday 24 July.

Kyle Bell, 24, was charged the next day with child stealing and theft of a Kia Carnival on Cleeland Street, disqualified driving and two counts of committing an indictable offence on bail.

When asked about custody management issues, his defence lawyer told Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on 26 July that Bell had an intellectual disability.

A psychological report written earlier this year was to be handed to Bell’s custody nurse.

Magistrate Costas Kilias asked Bell if he had physical injuries. Bell replied in the negative.

Bell was also on bail at the time over a separate charge of intentionally damaging property.According to police, the black Kia Carnival had stopped on Cleeland Street about 3.25pm as the driver got out to speak to another motorist.

A man allegedly jumped into the car and drove off with the toddler in the back seat.

The boy was found at a supermarket in Ferntree Gully about 4.35pm and was not injured.

The child’s relieved father Mahmood Mahmood, who had been driving the Kia at the time, told Nine News that seeing his son again was like “a new life”.

“I just hug him very hard.

“I asked him did you scared? He said no.

“I appreciate the shoppers, whoever the community, everyone. They did a great job to inform the police and help my kid out there.”

Police say the vehicle was found abandoned in Coldstream about 7pm that night by a member of the public.

Bell was remanded to appear at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on Monday 1 August.

Radisavljevic, saying foreign traffic may lead to accidents.

“We have a tight bridge over Hallam Valley Road. There’s only one vehicle at a time that can go through.

“Local traffic knows this and they know how to take care properly. If we start to get random traffic going up and down not knowing about how the bridge works it might create a lot of accidents.”

Mr Hamer also has a factory in the area. According to him, the traffic onto South Gippsland Highway is already “terrible and dangerous.”

“We turn right onto the highway and we have to speed up to 80km/h to merge into the traffic after sitting on the median strip in the middle of the road.

“In my little cars it’s okay but I wouldn’t want to do it in a truck, it’ll just take too long.”

ATCO Structures and Logistics also located on Hallam Valley Road deliver over-dimensional loads, namely large work accommodation to construction sites across Victoria.

“On a big project we can send 20 to 25 out to one site and that’s in the space of few hours in the morning,” manager Sam Parlane said.

“The movements don’t happen in the quiet part in the middle of the day. A lot of these are

in the morning or in the afternoon because we must get to and from the site in the middle of the day.

“So, the peak transport period is always in the earlier rush hours.”

The group has asked for temporary lights at the intersection to the highway to deal with the dangerous turn, but they were refused outright.

“I told them they must as minimum have traffic light control. They said they won’t do it because it’s temporary and I said it’ll kill in the first hour,” JDN Monocrane managing director Colin Smith said.

Mr Smith has to seek a permit from National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) to carry their manufactured cranes over the detour.

“We take eights the volume of traffic as to what they have on Hallam Valley Road.

“It’s a goat track, a narrow windy road not for traffic where goats walk up with their cloven hooves.”

Businesses are also fearful that their land value will decrease incredibly because of the level-crossing closure.

“We’re talking $100 million in lost value to our land,” Mr Hamer said.

“We’re talking about $10 to $15 million a year in lost productivity and transport costs.”

Deep-fried discord as ban is challenged

From page 1

“I don’t know if the council planned this through carefully. I can guarantee a three year old knows the big ‘M’ for Maccas just from the logo.

“Council and others can push for a healthier agenda but out of 100, five or six will actually listen. It’ll be very impossible to have that healthy eating agenda.”

Cr Tim Dark says Greater Dandenong should abandon the ban.

He said clubs would not only be “losing a critical source of income“ but the touted health benefits were a “lie” given that parents were taking their kids to fast-food outlets after the game.

“Clubs are already struggling financially with the council’s restriction on advertising,” he said.

Mr Korcari also raised the point saying people will not wait for air-fried fries and would rather drive to a drive-thru after the match.

“People would go to Maccas drive-thru because itts faster rather than people waiting on air-fried chips.

“In 15 minutes they can have a happy meal or burger from Maccas.“

Cr Memeti says this is a “difficult one” to tackle.

“We’re also talking about clubs ran by mums and dads. It’s a little canteen they run to survive and help the club thrive.

“It’s not like people will binge on fast food every day.”

Ms Gillies said the council recognised canteens were an important revenue source for sports clubs.

“We are always available to assist clubs to review and improve their canteen menus to provide healthier options in partnership with Monash Health and the Vic Kids Eat Well program.

“Council can also help clubs to identify appropriate benchtop air fryers.”

Puddles and potholes on a gravel section of Hallam Valley Rd. 349841

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Trucks on Hallam Valley Rd wait to pass on the hump bridge. 350594

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Sam Parlane with a colleague at ATCO on Hallam Valley Road. 350595

Picture: SAHAR FOLADI

Mahmood Mahmood reunited with his two-yearold son. Picture: NINE NEWS

Case not over, says Cook

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

I Cook Foods has announced it will launch “malicious prosecution” claims against Greater Dandenong Council officers – a day after dropping a civil case against Greater Dandenong Council.

After all-day mediation between the parties on 25 July, the original civil case was dismissed by the Victorian Supreme Court, the council stated.

“We are pleased to confirm that I Cook Foods has dropped its case against Council, Greater Dandenong chief executive Jacqui Weatherill stated.

“The fact that the claims were dropped shows that there was no substance to any of the claims made against Council and its officers.

“Nothing was paid by Council to I Cook Foods. Both I Cook Foods and Council have agreed to pay their own legal costs.”

However, ICF owner Ian Cook said the council should not have publicised the terms of the confidential “settlement”.

“That puts them at a contempt of court if they’re giving all of the details.

“All of the allegations are true. This is not over by a long shot.”

In response, Greater Dandenong CEO Ms Weatherill denied that there was a confidential settlement.

Public orders were made, the matter was resolved and no monies were paid, she stated.

In a statement, Mr Cook said: “Once again Council has stuffed up, this time with their legal case and their press release.

“I Cook settled with Council yesterday IN THIS CASE ONLY.”

ICF would launch a new civil case against the council for “malicious prosecution”, Mr Cook said.

He intended to call Greater Dandenong

former chief executive John Bennie, Greater Dandenong Council’s public health coordinator Leanne Johnson and environmental health officer Elizabeth Garlick as witnesses.

“And personally I can’t wait for cross-examination.

“It’s extraordinary how foolish this council has acted right from the start and this is just another example.”

ICF is continuing to sue the State ofVictoria

over then-Deputy Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton’s shutdown of its commercial kitchen in early 2019.

Professor Sutton has been listed as a witness for the State.

Mr Cook, fellow ICF directors Ben Cook and Michael Cook and administrator Leisha Hodges will give evidence for ICF, as well as ‘whistleblowers’ Greater Dandenong ex-food inspector Kim Rogerson and Knox health inspector Ray Christy.

The Dandenong South commercial kitchen argues it was shut wrongfully as part of an investigation by health authorities into a hospital patient’s death in 2019.

The matter has been the subject of police and Parliamentary investigations. No charges have been laid.

A directions hearing is scheduled at the Supreme Court on 26 July, with a trial date set for 31 July.

IanCooksaysthelegalfightagainstGreaterDandenongCouncilisnotover. 303753

Picture:STEWARTCHAMBERS

Criminal charges tipped

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Criminal charges and sweeping planning reforms may follow a damning and long-awaited anti-corruption report involving Casey councillors and property developers.

Former Casey mayors Sam Aziz and Geoff Ablett accepted more than $1.15 million in payments and in-kind support for promoting developer John Woodman or his clients’ interests on council, the Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission found.

Under state law, IBAC is barred from publicly stating people engaged in criminal, corrupt conduct.

However, the anti-corruption watchdog is able to refer alleged criminality to the Office of Public Prosecutions, which would decide whether to pursue charges.

“There’s a process for doing that. It hasn’t been done yet,” IBAC acting commissioner Stephen Farrow said.

“The advice I have is that will be happening very quickly.”

Among the IBAC Operation Sandon report’s 34 recommendations is to take land planning decisions out of the hands of councillors.

It advises to shift the decisions to “council planning professionals” or “independent expert panels”.

Also it recommends prohibiting political donations from “high-risk” groups such as developers.

Mr Aziz received about $600,000 from Mr Woodman and Woodman-controlled entities in the form of investment returns, consultancy fees and cash, according to the report.

Mr Aziz also “marketed” his ability to influence council decisions for various other parties. He received more than $450,000 in further benefits from them.

Meanwhile, Mr Ablett gained more than $550,000 in payments and other financial ben-

efits from Mr Woodman.

Many of the “elaborate” financial arrangements were designed to give the “appearance of legitimacy”, Mr Farrow said.

“Councillors are elected to make decisions in the public interest.

“If they are receiving significant, undeclared financial benefits, and there are elaborate steps that have been taken to conceal the nature and source of those benefits, that is obviously very alarming.”

The two councillors did not declare the conflicts of interest on many occasions.

When they did declare and absent themselves from council decisions, they still sought to influence their councillor colleagues, IBAC reported.

As a group, Casey councillors exhibited and tolerated behaviour that was below the standards expected of them, Mr Farrow said.

Some made a “conscious departure” from the standards, others had a “poor understanding” of their obligations.

IBAC deputy commissioner DavidWolf said the report was a “pivotal moment” for local

government in Victoria.

It “laid bare” corruption risks in council decision-making as well as with political donations at state and local government levels.

“What is clear is that the conduct of individual councillors severely damaged the standing of Casey Council with their local community.

“But more so, this unambiguous breach of public trust had a reputational ripple effect for councils across the entire state, epitomising what communities loathe in their public officials.

“It showed the ease with which council governance requirements can be manipulated or disregarded by councillors who are minded to do so.”

Mr Wolf said IBAC recommended “extensive reforms” to reduce the incentive to act corruptly, such as the windfall gains for owners of rezoned land.

On taking local councillors out of planning decisions, Mr Wolf said “the complexity and technical capability to deal with planning matters is beyond councillors”.

“What was also exposed was the enormous amount of time that councillors were spend-

ing on planning matters, on matters where they don’t have the capability to deal with.

“And then of course, you have the corruption vulnerabilities exposed in this report.”

The change was “aimed at delivering better planning outcomes for the entire community, not just small elements of the community”.

Mr Farrow said IBAC was implementing a Coronial recommendation to alleviate witness’s uncertainty about being prosecuted as soon as possible.

This followed the suicide of former Casey mayor Amanda Stapledon, who had been publicly examined in the IBAC inquiry.

IBAC had also introduced other witness welfare reforms, including a specialist witness liaison team, Mr Farrow said.

Premier Daniel Andrews’s evidence did not meet the test for a public examination or amount to “adverse” findings.

“The reason it is in the report is it provides important context to building on (political donation and lobbying) reforms that IBAC recommended late last year,” Mr Farrow said.

“Clearly a well-resourced person who gains access to one of the senior decision-makers in this state needs to be looked at carefully.”

In 2016, Mr Woodman made a $10,000 winning bid at a political fundraiser to have lunch with Mr Andrews.

A Woodman lobbyist gave evidence that there was an embargo on discussing planning matters at the Flower Drum lunch.

It was described as a “relationship building exercise”, Mr Farrow said.

In a separate conversation, Mr Andrews asked the lobbyist to convey his regret to Mr Woodman that a planning decision had been deferred by the Government, Mr Farrow said.

Starting in 2018, the complex investigation spanned 40 days of public hearings as well as seven private examinations.

Casey’s ‘culture of avoidance’ highlighted by IBAC

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Casey chief executives had “misgivings” about councillor conduct but felt limited in what they could do, the IBAC Operation Sandon report found.

A “culture of avoidance” and a lack of “adequate safeguards” at Casey Council allowed developer John Woodman’s “improper” influence over councillors to “flourish unchecked”, IBAC reported.

Mayors Geoff Ablett and Sam Aziz received about $1.15 million in benefits from Woodman while ushering through council planning decisions in favour of Woodman’s interests, the report found.

Councillors repeatedly failed to declare clear conflicts of interest, manipulated decision-making processes and bullied council officers and other councillors.

“‘I can’t get up and say, “Mr Mayor, I don’t agree with the council, it’s not urgent”,” former chief executive Mike Tyler told the inquiry.

“It’s not up to me [as CEO] to debate, I didn’t have that [authority]’.”

This was in relation to what Tyler termed an “unusual” ‘urgent business’ motion rushed onto a 2014 meeting by Aziz, before council officers could review the idea and give advice to councillors.

It started the push for Amendment C219 to rezone industrial land for housing in Cranbourne West.

It represented a $35 million windfall gain for developer Leightons who hiredWoodman as a consultant. But the proposal was rejected as “lacking strategic justification” by local and State planning officials.

Tyler, who opposed C219, was later pushed to resign by then-mayor Ablett..

With the support of Aziz and Cr Amanda Stapledon, Ablett cited councillors had lost confidence in him.

Among their ‘serious issues’ was councillors being separated or “locked out” of the administrators’ wing at the new

Bunjil Place offices.

“CEOs have done the right thing and asserted themselves around all sorts of matters with councillors, and haven’t – the outcome hasn’t been positive for them in terms of their continued employment,” current CEO Glenn Patterson told the inquiry.

Councillors elected Aziz as mayor weeks after a misconduct finding against him for a “pattern of bullying” another councillor in 2015.

“The panel process not only delivered an inadequate outcome, but was fraught with personal or political risks for the complainant, who withdrew part of their application – which sought a finding of gross misconduct – in order to bring the matter to a close,” the report stated.

IBAC quoted the Municipal Monitor’s report into Casey Council in 2020 that there was an ‘avoidance culture’ among councillors.

“There is an overriding view that if one or both councillors, at the centre of the investigation to date, were removed

everything would be all right and that the remaining councillors have ‘done nothing wrong’,” the Monitor reported.

The Sandon report stated that councillors repeatedly failed to declare or fulling disclose conflicts of interest.

Aziz “blatantly failed” to declare conflicts involving his personal interests and councillor duties.

Ablett, Stapledon and councillors Wayne Smith and Susan Serey claimed ignorance of the parties affected by a planning decision or the source of donations to them.

“As Councillor Aziz’s conduct and explanations make clear, his failure to disclose conflicts of interest was not due to a lack of understanding of what constitutes a conflict of interest or how a declaration should be made. “Rather, he did not perceive the environment in which he operated as likely to lead to exposure of his conflicts or to preclude him from exerting influence on decisions in which he had a clear conflict of interest.”

IBAC recommended supporting council chief executives to mandatorily report coun-

cillors’ serious misconduct such as breaches of conflict-of-interest.

It also called for stronger and universal Model councillor code of conduct, governance rules and transparency policies for meetings across all councils.

They included more stringent reporting of donations and conflicts-of-interest, stronger punishments and more effective ways to deal with councillor misconduct.

Casey Council – whose councillors were sacked during the Sandon inquiry – has been under a Panel of Administrators since 2020.

“Operation Sandon focused on very specific planning and developer matters and highlighted alleged impropriety and conflicts of interest by former Councillors, not Council officers,” the council stated in response to the IBAC report.

“At no time has the conduct or professionalism of Council officers been called into question.”

It states it has delivered reforms in conflicts-of-interest, governance, councillor protocols in land-use planning and a policy to guide strategic planning scheme amendment requests from developers.

Casey also launched a Community Leadership Program for emerging and existing community leaders.

“Council has been delivering on the reform recommendations set out in the Municipal Monitor’s Report and is committed to undertaking any additional work necessary towards improving Governance at Casey, in line with the IBAC recommendations,” chair of administrators Noelene Duff said.

In his response to the report, Woodman denied acting improperly or illegally. Ablett also rejected IBAC’s inferences of corrupt, illegal or unethical behaviour.

IBAC stated it rejected both submissions. Aziz didn’t formally respond to the report but has publicly denied wrong-doing.

CEOs Tyson and Patterson were clear of “any adverse comment or opinion”, the report stated.

At the official opening of Bunjil Place in 2017 was Casey Counicl CEO Mike Tyler, Cr Rex Flannery, Cr Amanda Stapledon, Cr Timothy Jackson, Cr Milla Gilic, Cr Susan Serey, Mayor Cr Sam Aziz, Jason Wood MP, Cr Wayne Smith, Cr Geoff Ablett and Cr Damien Rosario. 174129 Picture: ROB CAREW

IBAC acting commissioner Stephen Farrow and deputy commissioner David Wolf. 350301 Picture: CAM LUCADOU-WELLS

No fun like snow fun in Springvale winter wonderland

Snow brought crowds out in their droves for the annual Springvale Snow Fest.

Among the many attractions was a free snow play area, an ice-skating rink, carnival rides, cuisines from around the world and entertainers.

Live performances from snow princesses and snow angels, Hong De Lion Dance and Extravaganza Roving Entertainment, featured across two stages.

Food trucks and stalls will showcase cuisines from Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand, Turkey, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Greece and Spain.

E-waste recycler gets nod

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

A proposed electronic-waste recycling facility near the popular Greaves Reserve, Dandenong has been given the ‘green light’ by the state’s planning tribunal despite Greater Dandenong Council’s opposition.

The proposed Ace Recycling Group Pty Ltd factory at 32-34 Bennet Street is in a light-industrial zone and a State-significant industrial precinct that supports resource recovery as a use.

The facility would collect, sort and manually dismantle e-waste such as TVs, laptops and phones, and pack e-waste.

Component parts like circuit boards, batteries, hard drives, fans, power boxes, metals, cathode ray tubes. LCD panels, glass would be taken offsite for recycling.

Plastics would be sorted by polymer types and washed, crushed and made into pellets onsite. The pellets would be shipped for use in new products.

However, Greater Dandenong was concerned about the noise of traffic movements and unloading – and its impact on amenity in “significant” open space at neighbouring Greaves Reserve.

The council’s Open Space Strategy 2020‘23, which seeks to improve the amenity and quality of its open spaces, specifically highlights Greaves Reserve.

All year round, the reserve hosts a wide array of concerts, sports and the annual Dandenong Show.

Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal deputy president Teresa Bisucci and member Claire Bennett found the e-waste proposal had “minimal” noise impacts for users of the reserve or a nearby residential zone.

Noise would be minimised due to operations being inside a building, running from 8am-4pm on weekdays, and involving the manual dismantling of e-waste.

The sounds of unloading and trucks was similar to other businesses in the zone, with already background noise from the train line, Railway Parade, B-Double approved Sinclair Road and other nearby industries, the members noted.

The site is also directly south of the council’s own works depot – which appeared to be used for industrial purposes, they stated.

“Greaves Reserve is a very large area of open

space where users can disperse if any form of noise emanating from the industrial area or the council Operations Centre is disturbing them.”

VCAT noted that the nearest residential zone was about 360 metres from the site –closer than the minimum 500 metre buffer for used plastic treatments.

However, Environment Protection Authority Victoria granted registration for the “smallscale waste and recycling facility”, didn’t object

to it or require any further permit conditions. It found the risk of adverse amenity impacts were “likely to be low”.

Further, the Open Space Strategy was “not directed at considering the impacts of nearby uses to the amenity of open spaces”, VCAT stated.

“We note the strong support for resource recovery and materials recycling in the planning scheme,” the VCAT members stated.

A fireworks display capped off a spectacular afternoon in the snow.

Snow in Springvale. 350093

Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

Cousins Azaria and Zara pelt snowballs at Springvale Snowfest. 350093

Vithika from Cranbourne North scales an icy rock wall. 350093

Arya with a roving snow queen. 350093 Zara. 350093

Brigitta and Helena from Pakenham. 350093

Tam with his kids Isaac and Scarlett. 350093

Carnival rides were as usual popular attractions. 350093

Dandenong Show is one of many events held at Greaves Reserve - next to the approved e-waste recycling facility. 305529

Picture: ROB CAREW

Ashura draws huge crowd

By Sahar Foladi

Thousands of Muslims walked united under one banner to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (a.s) on Saturday 29 July in the 10th annual Ashura procession.

The Ashura gathering started from Treasury Garden in the CBD with sermons and group prayer before thousands poured onto the roads wearing black and waving flags in the air. Organisations and communities from every background took part in the annual procession.

A religious leader and public officer of Rasul Akram Association based in Greater Dandenong, Hussain Rohani said Ashura is the triumph of justice through the sacrifice of Imam Hussain, his family and companions which made a small army of 72.

“Imam Hussain (a.s) stood against tyranny and injustice against the tyrant and corrupted ruler of that time, Yazid from the Umayyad caliphate.

“Renowned figures both past and present across the globe respect Imam Hussain and the day of Ashura such as, Mahatma Gandhi, the great English politician, historian and essayist Edward Gibbon and Charles Dickens.”

AbuTalib Community Centre in Hallam also took part in the procession, Sadiq Ali, one of the directors and president said it’s also a great union of communities all over Melbourne.

“Ashura is not just for us Hazara Muslims but all Muslims and non-Muslims from different backgrounds and languages whether Urdu, Persian and Arabic, everyone is welcomed.

Virtual reality headsets (VR) were also available at the event so people from all walks of lives could watch a snippet of the Battle of Karbala.

Sayed Mehdi Mosawi volunteer at Abu Talib Community Centre manages the VR program sessions.

“With the help of Abu Talib community, I brought this VR Karbala sessions to the community to make them see and feel the scene of Karbala 1400 years ago.

The program is brought by Musawi Films, Mr Mosawi’s YouTube channel and Facebook page operated by him individually.

“Thelast10dayswe’vehaddifferentsessions in multiple different community organisations in the south-east and the west side as well.”

Currently, there’s six VR sets for everyone to share the experience with the hope of further improvements to the program.

“We’re in the process of an improved new production of visuals for the public which will released in one to two years’ time.

“Meanwhile, we will continue to make a widespread use of the VR,” Mr Mosawi said.

The procession ended in front of the Parliament House as Victoria Police expected anywhere between 3,000 to 5,000 attendees.

‘Alayhi Salam’ (a.s) followed by the names in the body translate to ‘Peace be upon him’ out of respect.

What is Ashura? It is about triumph of good over evil

By Sahar Foladi

What exactly is Ashura and why is it widely commemorated?

Ashura literally means 10 in Arabic, so it’s the 10th day of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar.

Muharram is the most sacred month after Ramadan, and although it’s the first month in the Islamic calendar, it’s not celebrated by Shia Muslims as this is the month where Prophet Mohammad’s grandson, his family members and companions were brutally martyred by the tyrant ruler of the time,Yazid of the Umayyad caliphate.

The Battle of Karbala in Iraq in 680 AD is where thousands of Yazid’s army fought against the small 72 army of Imam Hussain and blocked them from water for the entire duration.

The small number comprised of family members as young as 6-month-old Ali Asghar, Imam Hussain’s youngest child, martyred by a three headed arrow which was

used to hunt down animals.

These great sacrifices and many more were made by Imam Hussain, his family and companions to stand up against corruption and injustice and has since become a symbol of humanity.

These events took place 1,400 years ago so it’s seen as an event from the past by some and some even question the commemoration of Ashura and the mournful month of Muharram.

“It’s similar to the Christian observance of Easter - we might similarly argue why should Christians remember something that reportedly happened 2000 years ago? Isn’t it time to get over it?” Dr Rachel Woodlock says.

An academic, researcher, writer, Ms Woodlock teaches about Islam and Muslims as a lecturer in the University of Melbourne.

“Theologically, Ashura is remembered by Shia Muslims as just as important today because it represents the cosmic battle in which good will finally triumph over evil.

“Imam Husayn’s martyrdom is seen as a type of ‘redemption’ and that without his sacrifice, the light of Islam would have been extinguished.

“But that is not how theology and belief work. There is a famous saying: ‘Every day is Ashura, every land is the Karbala’ that people like the Iranian sociologist and thinker Ali Shariati use to mean that this cosmic battle between good and evil is ongoing.”

The story of the Battle of Karbala unfolds stories of the tragedy, injustice and inhumanity to name a few.

Shia Muslims mourn through gatherings known as Majlis where the stories of each martyr are told, they beat their chest in unification out of grief, wear black clothes and carry flags in red, flag, green with names of different martyrs.

Till this day, Ashura and Muharram in general transcends all faith as it’s also observed by non-Muslims such as Christians and Sikhs.

“The Sunni love for the family of the Prophet is oft-forgotten too and although Sunnis may not observe the day in the same way, it is worth noting that all Muslims believe that we are all held accountable for how we live our lives and that choosing good over evil is a constant struggle that is part of the nature of this earthly reality,” Ms Woodlock said.

Ms Woodlock’s works are known internationally such as her co-edited Fear of Muslims? International Perspectives on Islamophobia with Douglas Pratt, an evidencebased examination of Islamophobia in both ‘old-world’ Europe and the ‘new-world’ of America and Australia, and also Southeast Asia.

She also co-wrote For God’s Sake: An Atheist, a Jew, a Christian and a Muslim Debate Religion, discussing some of life’s biggest questions.

‘Alayhi Salam’ (a.s) followed by the names in the body translate to ‘Peace be upon him’ out of respect.

Flags in black, red and green were carried with the name of all that were martyred.

The Ashura procession were le by the respected Muslim scholars from communities.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Diversity name of the game

Greater Dandenong proudly celebrates its diversity, and this string of Drum Theatre shows display just what makes our community so vibrant.

Enjoy storytelling, original songs and dance with the winner of four Melbourne Fringe Awards. Reckoning fuses cultures from Aotearoa (New Zealand) and the Land of the Dreamtime (Australia).

Khelaiya Productions promotes Indian regional folk and semi-classical music with the engaging Hindi musical Narsaiyo. Or explore an

Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman

Tuesday 15 August, 7pm

infusion of traditional North Indian and South Indian music with the contemporary sounds of Western Jazz and Blues in PaaNI:Where the Rivers Meet.

Explore the classics and celebrate traditional theatre, ballet and music.

See why Arthur Miller’sThe Death of a Salesman is called one of the greatest plays of the 20th Century or watch theVictorian State Ballet perform the Hans Christian Anderson fairytale classic The Snow Queen in a show suitable for all ages.

The Grigoryan Brothers: This Is Us Thursday 17 August, 10.30am

Rediscover the music of Burt Bacharach (1928-2023) and Hal David in Promises, Promises, featuring internationally acclaimed vocalist Janet Ross-Fahy singing hits from two of the most influential composers of the 20th Century. Start the September school holidays right withWhalebone, a family-friendly performance that opens the door to a fantastical world where the future of humanity is under scrutiny. The Resilience Project tackles children’s mental health with the high energy show 3 Happy Tricks, while Bon Appetit by Petit Circus showcases intergenerational circus fun.

The Snow Queen

Saturday 19 August, 7.30pm

Sunday 20 August, 2.30pm

Explore a toe-tapping history of Boogie Woogie and Rock‘n Roll piano songs with Crazy Arms in October or remember the most popular Gilbert and Sullivan musicals when Gilbert, Sullivan and the Great Composers hit the stage in November.

The B Sharp Big Band will help you celebrate Christmas as they belt out the hits of the swinging 30s, 40s and 50s, mixed with festive cheer. Visit drum.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au or phone the box office on 8571 1666 and celebrate the arts today.

Saturday 26 August, 5pm Promises,

Whalebone Thursday 21 September, 2pm

Thursday 28 September, 10.30am

Crazy Arms Thursday 19 October, 10.30am

Gilbert, Sullivan and the Great Composers

Thursday 16 November, 10.30am

Bon Appetit by Petit Circus will be appearing at the Drum Theatre.

The play Arthur Miller’s The Death of a Salesman will be featured at the Drum Theatre.

LOOKING

BACK

26 July 1923

‘Dear’ Gas

The fight between the Metropolitan Gas company and its customers over the 40 per cent rise in the price of gas is ongoing. One of the arguments used by the Company’s manager for increasing the price is that the company may have to pay still higher prices for coal. Another was that the company’s stocks being depleted, its coal reserves must be built up. Why consumes should have to pay an increasing price because the company has to make ordinary provision for the future it would be hard to say. The real difficulty in the matter is that while everyone growls against the increase no one knows who is benefiting by the increased dividends that will be paid. The personnel of the Gas company shareholders are a strictly preserved secret, but there is a very general belief that quite a member of public men whose duty it should be to fight strongly against this monopoly, are interest-

Now-federal opposition leader Peter Dutton and MP Jason Wood at a Dandenong event in 2022. 296704 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

ed, either directly or through members of their families, in the company.

50 years ago

31 July 1973

Geriatric Centre ‘is urgently needed’

There was a desperate and urgent need for the establishment of a geriatric centre in the

Dandenong area, the president of the Doveton Senior Citizens Club Mr Clyde Harding said yesterday. In the past seven years Mr Harding says he has had to “force” his way into seven flats in Peace Court flats at Doveton, only to find the occupants dead. He has been campaigning for a geriatric centre for some time and at the club’s recent annual meeting,it was decided to step up efforts and demands.

20 years ago

23 July 2003

Jail, fine awaiting cheats

People found breaking stage-two water restrictions face large fines or jail time. Stagetwo restrictions, which come into force this Friday at 1am, include a ban on watering private lawns and sporting grounds and a requirement for private car washing by bucket or a high–pressure water cleaning unit. Only international and national sporting venues, cricket pitches, golf and bowling greens, and tennis courts can be watered. Pools and spas can only be filled with written approval. People found breaching the restrictions face

a fine up to $2000 or three months in jail for a first offence. Melbourne’s water storages have reached their lowest level in 18 years. The past 12 months where the driest period since records began in 1855.

5 years ago

30 July 2018

Sifting ‘fairyland’ from reality

Victoria Police are at odds with the Federal Government over the existence of ‘African gangs’. In contradiction to remarks of senior government ministers, a Victorian police spokesperson told the Journal that the criminal activity is “not what we have traditionally called gangs”. Immigration Minister Peter Dutton, and Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull reiterated their stance that Melbourne has a problem with” African gang violence”. The police spokesperson said young people of African backgrounds were overly represented in some high-harm crimes. However, they represent a small portion of offenders.

Compiled by Dandenong & District Historical Society

Interfaith brings kindness

By Roz Blades AM of the

Jewish faith

Aren’t Messages of Hope terrific?

I read them all in the Dandenong Star Journal every week and get something from every dif ferent faith.

And it is most gratifying to see and hear from residents in ours and other cities that they are read, understood, and well received.

When I was a child growing up in North London, there was very little understanding of faith.

Indeed, many people were just trying to survive, with no hope for the future.

I remember saying to the Rabbi “if they understood us, they wouldn’t dislike us”.

It took many years later and into my adulthood that we moved 14,000 miles from where we were born and grew up and came to what would be the most multicultural city in Australia.

And the Interfaith Network, where there is

understanding, education, kindness, and tolerance.

I particularly love the Interfaith Network tours and have been on many over the years, further enhancing my own learning experiences.

It is very rewarding to be able to share the cultures and practices of each faith with schools and community groups, enlarging and enhancing their knowledge.

I used to look forward to Sukkot whose date does not commemorate a historic event.

It is referred to as the Harvest Festival.

In Israel, crops grow in the winter and are

ready for harvest in the late spring. Some of them remain out in the field to dry for a few months and are only ready for harvest

in the autumn.

Chag HaAsif is a time to express appreciation for this bounty.

The name Chag HaSukkot commemorates the temporary dwellings made to shelter our ancestors on their way out of Egypt, shielding them from the desert sun. Following the seven days of Sukkot, there is the happy holiday of Shemini Atzeret.

The second day is known as Simchat Torah and this joyous milestone is marked with dancing, candle lighting, festive meals night and day.

If you live in Israel, this is compacted into one very busy and heady 24-hour period.

I am continually hopeful that the Interfaith Network of Greater Dandenong will continue to provide, through its actions, hope for the future.

Enquiries about the Interfaith Network: executive@interfaithnetwork.org.au or 8774 7662.

How ‘one-tree’ notion turns into thousands planted

Eight-hundred children planted 2300 trees and shrubs in Springvale South on Friday 28 July to launch Greater Dandenong’s One Tree Per Child program.

TheYear 3 students from 14 primary schools were joined by the program’s co-founder Jon Dee for the mass-planting at Springvalley Reserve.

The launch also preceded National Tree Day celebrations at Tirhatuan Park on Saturday and back at Springvalley Reserve on Sunday.

One Tree Per Child was started by Olivia Newton-John and Dee in 2013.

Now planting trees in 10 countries, the initiative aims to get every child to plant at least one tree.

Dee said planting a tree encourages children to volunteer and give back to their local community.

“As children grow, they will see their tree making a positive difference as it improves the environment and creates habitat for local wildlife.

“We look forward to seeing local children and schools planting many thousands of trees and shrubs in the years to come.”

Greater Dandenong Council recently adopted laws to protect large trees on private property, in a bid to lift its meagre 9 per cent canopy coverage to 15 per cent by 2028.

Mayor Eden Foster said the One Tree Per Child initiative aimed to have local children planting thousands of trees before the end of 2023.

“Council has a vision that our city can be healthy, green and resilient; and we can achieve this by planting more trees.

“How exciting for these students to plant a tree that they can grow up alongside. We know our city doesn’t have enough trees and we love

that we can involve the whole community to make a difference.

Greens councillor Rhonda Garad instigated Council’s participation in One Tree Per Child.

“Through these initiatives we are taking action to tackle climate change and make a positive contribution to the local community.

“What a difference planting a tree can make.”

Harry Habitat with students from Dandenong Primary School. 350330 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Roz Blades reflects on the value of Greater Dandenong Interfaith Network.

Tuck CTE severe: Coroner

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Shane Tuck showed signs of decline from multiple head-knocks early in his storied 173game AFL career, a Coronial inquest has heard.

Tuck, 38, died with severe stage-three chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).

His affliction however couldn’t be definitively diagnosed during life, the hearing was told on 19 July.

A CT brain scan in 2009 produced a normal result.

And despite psychiatric treatment, Tuck was tormented by voice hallucinations, suicidal thoughts and depression.

He took his life at his parents’ Berwick home on 20 July 2020.

State Coroner John Cain is investigating the links between Tuck’s head injuries during football and boxing and CTE.

He will look at whether AFL and boxing’s approach to the risk of CTE is “reasonable and proportionate”.

Counsel Assisting the inquiry Gideon Boas told the inquiry on 19 July that the signs of Tuck’s decline were noticed by wife Katherine as early as 2006.

After head knocks in games for Richmond Football Club, he would retire to bed early, suffer headaches and not appear to be himself.

In 2010, he reported residual problems with concussions, dizziness and forgetfulness.

He was treated for depression, anxiety and heart palpitations, as he became disengaged from Katherine and their two children.

He started to believe he was ‘letting God down’ and having trouble sleeping.

After retiring from football in 2013, Tuck quit an apprenticeship and fought four times as a professional boxer.

In his first bout in 2015, he suffered a‘severe knock out’, lost consciousness and was admitted to The Alfred hospital’s emergency department with a brain hematoma.

Soon after he reported suicidal thoughts. He was cleared to fight again after two‘normal’ MRI scans.

In 2018, he first reported hearing voices telling him not to eat, and he started drinking heavily.

After suicide attempts and auditory hallucinations, he was admitted to psychiatric units,

including Casey Hospital in April 2020.

Tuck was prevented from leaving Casey due to hearing voices commanding him to kill himself. He was discharged in May after agreeing to get counselling and take medication.

A month before he died, Monash Health was contacted by Tuck’s mother about him “actively and loudly responding to voices”.

The Continuing Care Team assessed this as “part of the fluctuating course of Shane’s psychotic symptoms”, Mr Boas said.

At the time, Tuck was on a 26-week community treatment order while living with his parents and being treated by the Continuing Care Team.

There were plans for a neurology assessment and MRI brain scan.

Monash Health’s procedures have since been updated to insist that such clinical deteriorations as reported by Tuck’s mother are “escalated” to the consultant and/or team manager.

State Coroner John Cain said he was “satisfied” that he did not require to investigate Monash Health any further.

Mr Boas cited CTE as an “increasing public focus” with high-profile cases such as Tuck and other late footballers Graeme‘Polly’ Farmer, Danny Frawley and Heather Anderson.

Studies suggest that at least 17 per cent of people suffering repetitive concussions or mild brain injuries develop CTE.

“The severity of the disorder appears to correlate with the length of time engaged in the sport and the number of traumatic injuries.”

CTE is associated with not just concussions but repetitive head trauma without symptoms, Mr Boas said.

Most concussions happened in community sport and were not reported.

The Australian Sports Commission estimated at least 100,000 sport related concussions in Australia each year.

By the age of 10, one in five children were concussed. And 25 per cent of those happened in sport.

At the inquest, US neurosurgeon Dr Robert Cantu said that the AFL was doing a “very fine job” in identifying and treating concussion. However, sub-concussive hits also contribute to CTE, he said.

“Hits that don’t cause symptomatic brain injury also can contribute to CTE and do contribute to CTE. And those are the majority of hits that somebody takes over their career.

“The number of contests you play would increase your risk for CTE cumulatively if you played enough years.”

In cross-examination, the AFL’s lawyer Mr Ihle posited that the game’s rule changes for “high contact infringements”, as well as in tribunal guidelines, were minimising head impacts.

Dr Cantu replied: “My interpretation to them was that they were trying to reduce concussion and the focus was not so much reducing the amount of head contact that was occurring.”

Keeping mental health in sight works for De Gruchy

By Matthew Sims

At 26 years old, Matt De Gruchy has found strength well beyond his years and broke through the boundaries of his vision impairment.

The blindness and disability advocate will be one of the speakers at the upcoming Healthy Minds mental health forum on Tuesday 15 August from 6.30pm to 9.30pm at Lyndale Secondary College at 14 Halton Road in Dandenong North.

Held by the Rotary Club of Greater Dandenong and Endeavour Hills, in conjunction with Casey-Cardinia Rotaract, the event is suitable for adults and young people from 12 years and over and is a fundraiser to support Australian Rotary Health’s mental health research.

Mr De Gruchy was diagnosed with Stargardt disease, a rare genetic eye disease caused by fatty material building up on the macula, at the age of nine, reducing his vision by 90 per cent of my vision by the time he had reached his teen years, with his sight currently sitting between four per cent and six per cent.

“For years I would hide my blindness from others, pretending I could see more than I actually could to try and ‘fit in’,” he said.

“I was scared of being ‘different’ and being picked on, I was scared of bullies and saw depictions of people with a disability in main stream media, movies & marketing as a source of entertainment.”

Mr De Gruchy said his mental health issues began at an early age.

“The stereotyping of those with disabilities is a hard stigma to break and as a young person growing up, you are easily subject to developing a low self esteem,” he said.

“Throughout high school I struggled with mental health, anxiety and depression went hand in hand.

“It’s a rabbit hole that can be challenging to know you’re in at the time and to work on getting out of it.”

Mr De Gruchy said he has come to accept his blindness.

“It seems silly in hindsight, but I somehow thought that if I strained my eyes really hard, maybe just maybe I’ll be able to see again, but that wasn’t reality and I did put myself through a lot of guilt and shame for having something ‘wrong’ with me that was never my choice in the first place,” he said.

“It took a few months, if not a year, but finally I had accepted my disability.

“I was no longer afraid of what others might do or say, and I finally felt like I was moving forward.”

Mr De Gruchy said battling mental illness was similar to maintaining good hygiene as it required daily actions.

“I always say nowadays that I’m content, I feel content within my challenges and that’s a great place for me to be, and I’m very aware that good mental health is temporary,” he said.

“It’s important we leave space for people to share with no judgement and to just ‘listen’, not just wait for them to stop speaking so we can start to talk again.

“We still don’t talk about it enough and from lived experience I know first-hand how isolating it can be.”

Mr De Gruchy said he has enjoyed sharing his story of overcoming his disability.

“For me I am at my best when I’m active,” he said.

“I enjoy exercising and I’m also lucky enough that my job is my passion in life.

“I love sharing my story so that other people out there, blind, disabled or not, we all go through adversity and with a bit of courage & kindness, we can achieve great things.”

If you need help, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Kids Help Line on 1800 55 1800.

For more information on Mr De Gruchy’s story, visit mattdegruchyvision.com

Blindness and disability advocate Matthew De Gruchy has overcome his mental health battles via sharing his story with others.

Mr De Gruchy hopes his story can increase awareness of those with visual impairments and other disabilities.

Shane Tuck training with Richmond Football Club in Beaconsfield in 2013. 93128

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

2050 vision for business

The inaugural South East Business Conference (SEBC) on Wednesday, 30 August is expected to help foster growth and advocate for the Victorian region as the country’s most dynamic business hub.

Themed ‘Towards 2050’, SEBC will be held at Bunjil Place in Narre Warren and will bring together hundreds of local businesses with business groups and chambers of commerce located across Greater South East Melbourne (GSEM).

The growing South East produces more than $90 billion in gross regional product and supports 628,000 local jobs annually.

Delegates will represent a broad cross section of SMEs worth $5 million-$100 million in manufacturing, construction, healthcare, wholesale, professional and technical services, transport and logistics, retail, hospitality, accommodation,tourism, leisure and wellbeing, health care, and education and training.

SEBC representative Ross Raymond says that by opening up collaboration between these businesses, SEBC will promote discussion and consideration of the big issues for Victoria’s South East region from infrastructure and supply chain requirements to labour force and skills gaps (training and education) as well as funding and investment.

“Uniting forces between these groups aims to stimulate stronger economic growth, promote cross-sector connectivity, drive innovation and boost employment opportunities through a vibrant and healthy ecosystem,” he said.

The highly respected speakers are GSEM chair Simon McKeon AO, best-selling demographer Bernard Salt, Carmen’s Kitchen founder Carolyn Creswell and Port of Hastings stakeholder manager Todd Trimble.

Major businesses are supporting the conference as event partners, including KLM Spatial as a Strategic Sponsor, Waterman Workspaces and Scot Pac as Platinum Spon-

sors as well as many others.

is among an impressive

SEBC will also act as a launch platform for the Victoria South East Chamber Council (VSECC), a collective representative body to

Presented by: www.greaterdandenongchamber.com.au/awards

The South East Business Awards are proudly sponsored by:

unite businesses through their local business group or chamber.

The ‘collaborative ecosystem’ is hoped to address future needs together heading to-

wards 2050.

Full program tickets start at $159 pp or $99 pp for local chamber members.

Details: https://vsecc.com.au/

Tales for young and old

By Sahar Foladi

St Mary Primary School’s intergenerational storytelling activity is challenging stigma around people with disability.

The Dandenong school invited Wallara Disability Services clients to share their stories with the children.

School captain Celecita said she was very excited to hear the different stories shared by the guests.

“I was really excited to work on this project with my friends after the interview.”

Students were given the chance to interview the participants face to face as well as online, to than write their biographies.

The program is led by four Wallara clients living with intellectual disability.

“I feel very happy and honoured to get to share the story of my life with these children and look forward to reading it back at the end of term,” participant Mary Warburton said.

Over 60 students across Grades 5 and 6 participated in the program during this term.

Wallara chief executive, Phil HayesBrown said, “This is a perfect opportunity to integrate young people with people with disability to normalise differences from a young age.”

This program is the first of its kind for the school with a view of continuing it into the future.

The school’s principal Terry Gardiner says these projects are always inspiring to encourage intergenerational storytelling.

“The students responded with respect, understanding and excitement. They were keen to interact with the participants and were sensitive to their needs.

“Both groups benefited greatly from this initial meeting where dignity was upheld and the focus was on abilities and strengths”

Wallara Disability Services clients with St Mary’s students.

Best-selling demographer Bernard Salt

roll-call of speakers at the SEBC conference on 31 August. 188054

Picture: GARY SISSONS

Another builder collapses

By Matthew Sims

A South East construction company has become another casualty in the string of largescale builders recently entering liquidation.

Based in Upper Beaconsfield, Kleev Homes went into liquidation earlier this month with debts totalling about $3.3 million.

B&T Advisory director Travis Pullen said he was appointed as the liquidator onWednesday 5 July by the resolution of the company’s sole shareholder.

“Kleev Homes ceased traded shortly prior to my appointment, with five uncompleted projects across Melbourne,“ he said.

“The focus on my initial investigations is ascertaining what assets may be available for

the benefit of creditors, including outstanding employee entitlements.

“I am yet to complete my investigations regarding the reasons for the company’s failure, but as many will be aware, the residential construction industry has struggled with the pressures of dealing with rising costs and labour shortages, resulting in fixed price contracts becoming unprofitable.“

Mr Pullen said he had begun investigating the circumstances leading to the company’s liquidation ahead of a report due by Thursday 5 October.

“I am required to report further to creditors within three months of my appointment,“ he said.

“This report will provide further informa-

tion regarding my investigations into the failure of the Company, asset realisations, and whether a dividend will be paid to creditors.“

According to Kleev Homes’ now-defunct website, its former director James Kleverlaan has “worked in the building industry for 28 years and has a wealth of knowledge and experience with high end custom designed projects“.

“The team has undertaken approximately 180 projects ranging from bespoke renovations and additions, to units and large custom built residences,“ the website read.

Registered in October 2006, the company has received a number of awards, including Young Master Builder of the Year, MBAV Best Custom Home $800,000–$1,000,000 and HIA South East Victoria Best Custom Home

$500,000–$1,000,000 in 2011.

Mr Kleverlaan also received the award for Young Builder of the Year at the 2011 Master Builders Victoria Excellence in Construction Awards.

The most recent liquidation followed on from Hallam-based builder Rawdon Hill winding up on Thursday 25 May and Porter Davis going bust in late March.

Rawdon Hill had been promoting its “thriving” business just a day before going into liquidation.

Customers were plunged into turmoil when Porter Davis folded, leaving more than 1500 unfinished homes inVictoria.

Other builders such as Interface Constructions have also since collapsed.

The company’s website boasted photos of a number of completed projects, including in Narre Warren North.

Dinner with a VIEW

Dandenong Evening VIEW Club is holding a dinner and trivia night. VIEW stands for Voice, Interests and education for women and the Club supports the SMITH Family’s Learning for Life Program.

· Tuesday, 1 August 7pm at Dandenong RSL. Bookings essential. Details: Brigitte, 0491 626 527.

National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day

This year’s theme is “Little Voices, Loud Futures”. Activities include rock art, boomerang painting, Map of Australia workshop, Ganaga performance, face painter, BBQ, Bandok Tati performance and Blacksnake productions. Hosted by City of Greater Dandenong in partnership with VACCA and the Casey Aboriginal Gathering Place.

· Friday 4 August, 4pm-6:30pm at Myuna Farm, 182 Kidds Road, Doveton. Free event. Register at greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/ greater-dandenong-council/events/nationalaboriginal-and-torres-strait-islander-childrensday-event

Homelessness Week

Join us in Harmony Square Dandenong for an event to raise awareness of homelessness. Features a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony, more than 20 local support organisations as well as food and drinks for all.

· Tuesday 8 August, 11am -2pm at Harmony Square, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong. Free event.

Interfaith tours

Bookings are open for Greater Dandenong Interfaith Network’s 2023 public tours to places of worship on 9 August, 11 October, and 13 December 2023. Each tour features trips to four diverse places of worship for $25 plus a lunch for $10-$15 donation. Payment of $25 is required prior to the tour to confirm your booking. Details: education@interfaithnetwork.org.au or 8774 7662

Chisholm TAFE Open Night

Are you considering study but need to know more? Speak to educators directly and learn more about courses from Senior Secondary Programs through to Higher Education study options. Learn about subsidised study options such as free TAFE Pathways and a range of skillset - earn while you learn options.

Line dancing

Have fun moving to music in this vibrant group. Make connections and discover new ways to move and create. Absolute beginners welcome to enjoy a variety of easy dances. We’ll adapt many of the dances for anyone

· Wednesday 9 August, 4pm-7pm at Chisholm TAFE, 121 Stud Road - Building A, Level 2, Dandenong. Free event. Details: events@chisholm.edu.au

Creative Writing Group

Welcome to an organic and supportive group where we awaken our inner writer and spark our imagination in this encouraging workshop. We will share prompts, short stories, ideas and do a couple of writing activities together. New writers welcome.

· Thursday 10 August 10am-12pm at The Open Door, 110 Ann St, Dandenong. A gold coin donation is welcome. Details: Jo/Tayla, 9791 8664 or theopendoor@ssjg.org.au

Healthy Minds

A mental health forum with author and psychiatrist Greg de Moore, VISION disability advocate Matt Degruchy, author and childhood genocide survivor Frida Umuhoza and others. Held by Greater Dandenong Endeavour Hills Rotary Club and Casey-Cardinia Rotaract.

· Tuesday 15 August, 6.30pm for 7pm start

who needs/chooses to stay seated.

· first and third Thursdays of month

10.30am-11.30am (next date: Thurs 3 August) at The Open Door, 110 Ann St, Dandenong. A gold coin donation is welcome. Bookings: Jo/Tayla, 9791 8664 or theopendoor@ssjg.org.au

at Lyndale Secondary College auditorium, 14 Halton Road Dandenong. Includes supper and book signing; $10pp to be donated to Australian Rotary Health - Mental Health Research. Tickets: events.humanitix.com/ healthy-minds-mental-health-forum-aolt3xx5

Jewellery workshop

Artist and jewellery designer Vivian Qiu will teach you how to make jewellery using electrical wires collected from renovation sites. You can make a necklace, earrings, pendant or bracelet using a variety of hands-on techniques. Library membership is required to register.

· Tuesday 15 August, 6.30pm-8pm at Springvale Library, 5 Hillcrest Grove, Springvale. Free event. Registrations required at libraries.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/libraries/ events/jewellery-workshop-art-series-0

Weekly badminton

Badminton for ladies or retired. All welcome

· Mondays 7pm-9pm and Wednesdays 12pm2.30pm at Hallam Badminton Club, Frawley Road recreation reserve; $5.

Wilam Biik

A TarraWarra Museum of Art exhibition touring with NETS Victoria, curated by Stacie Piper. In the Woiwurrung language of the Wurundjeri people, Wilam Biik means Home Country. You are called to listen deeply with your ears, eyes and hearts – to understand how First People connect with Wilam Biik.

· Until Friday 8 September at Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre, Walker and Robinson Street, Dandenong (open Tuesdays-Fridays 12pm-4pm). Free event.

Community safety forum

Victoria Police Superintendent Jo Stafford is guest speaker at Neighbourhood Watch Greater Dandenong’s community safety public forum. Supt Stafford oversees the Greater Dandenong, Casey and Cardinia police areas, is a police officer for 25 years and a former nurse. Includes Q&A and light supper.

· Wednesday 27 September, 7pm for 7.30pm start at 18 Buckley Street Noble Park.

Multicultural seniors activities

Keysborough Multicultural Senior Citizens Inc is an over-55s club, with bingo on the first, second and fourth Tuesdays of the month, line dancing on Wednesdays, ballroom dancing lessons on Thursdays. We are in need of few volunteers able to arrange tables and chairs on Tuesdays from 10.15am to 11.00am.

· Rowley Allan Reserve, 352 Cheltenham Road Keysborough. Tea and coffee is supplied for all activities. Membership $10. Details: Julie, 0428 561 694

Mindfulness meditation

Held weekly for people to learn the basic skills of concentration. Meditation may benefit people with spiritual and mental health support.

· Thursdays, 2.30pm-3pm at Dandenong Hospital’s Sacred Space, 135 David Street, Dandenong. Free, no bookings required. Details: Chuentat Kang, 0405 421 706 or chuentat@ hotmail.com

Yoga Classes

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

NEWS Through First Nation eyes

By Sahar Foladi

The Wilam BIIK exhibition of TarraWarra Museum of Art had its opening in the Greater Dandenong Walker Street Gallery on Saturday 29 July.

The TarraWarra Museum of Art exhibition touring with NETS Victoria, is curated by Stacie Piper.

Wilam BIIK meaning Home Country in Woiwurrung language of the Wurundjeri people, explores Country through the eyes of First Nations people.

Among the 10 First Nations artists from South East Australia is Paola Balla, a contemporaryWembaWemba and Gundjitmara artist.

“I was very honoured to be invited to be in this show by the curator Stacey piper because Wilam Biik is about embracing country, knowing country, how you know it and look after it, so I was very inspired by that theme.

“My art is very important to me, it’s a way of seeing the world, responding to it, making culture instead of talking about culture that we lost because it wasn’t lost, a lot of it was deliberately destroyed by colonisers,” Ms Balla said.

“It’saboutreclaimingandremakingculture.”

The exhibition is personal to the artist in many ways, but her grandmother is the main reason.

“My grandmother was my first inspiration as an artist that’s really the beginning of it that’s why I’m very proud of this exhibition because it features my grandmothers work and mine across time.

“Sadly, Aboriginal people die much earlier than we should, but her arts live on,” Ms Balla said.

Her work features ‘Kuku Lar’ meaning grandmother’s place/camp and some of the

materials are also derived from the Country.

“It’s made with soft fabrics and it’s more about being a memory place and a resting place where you have a respite, and you forget what the time is.

“It’s about memories, feelings and the fabric is hand dyed by me only using bush plant, flowers and even bush medicines from my aunties.”

Her art also includes a painting of her grandmother which is displayed as a back-

ground to the art.

“A lot of Indigenous people say the art nostalgic and feels like visiting the old mission sites.

“There’s also the smell of the gum leaves and eucalyptus that comes through the fabric so there’s a sensory experience as well,” she said.

“It’s very immersive because you go inside it you can sit down. Kids like to sit and play in it.”

Due to her personal connection to this artwork, Ms Balla likes to install her own artwork.

“They’ve put up the wallpaper and painting but this part I must do it myself because it’s very personal.

“It’s like I’m sculpting with fabric until it’s done than I walk away and leave it and let them enjoy it.”

The exhibition is open to public till Friday 8 September.

Artist Paola Balla with the painting of her grandmother in the background at the Wilam Biik exhibition. 348305

Picture: GARY SISSONS

Haileybury hits heights

By Sahar Foladi Haileybury

College in Keysborough ranks highly in a list of top 50 primary schools inVictoria.

The Better Education analysis of academic outcomes 2022 has revealed more than 20 government schools in the top 50.

Haileybury, an independent school established in 2008, was top-ranked in Greater Dandenong and in 12th position overall.

Principal Derek Scott was proud of the high performance.

“Since the very beginning, Haileybury has always placed great emphasis on both academic achievement and on ensuring students have opportunities to develop a diverse range of skills that will prepare them for life after school.

“We are equally proud of the calibre of young people we help develop – Haileybury students are curious, compassionate, confident, innovative and entrepreneurial.”

Being in the top 20, the school is in the best top one per cent in the state.

It’s also the only school to achieve 4,400 en-

rolments overall with only a few schools that reached past the three thousand marks.

Mr Scott said the school’s rigorous approach towards learning models, such as their evidence-based explicit teaching model, helped achieve the result.

“Underpinning all this is Haileybury’s philosophy that ‘every student matters every day’ – that is central to everything we do and it is uppermost in the minds of our brilliant and committed teachers.

“Every time they step into a classroom, our teachers share their passion for their subjects and their expertise and enthusiasm, and they ensure no student is left behind in their learning.

“All this, helps our students to thrive and achieve outstanding results every day.”

In the South East, Lighthouse Christian College in Cranbourne and Keysborough also made the list as well as Harkaway Hills College in Narre Warren North.

Haileybury is ranked the 12th-best primary school in Victoria.

Lotto luck strikes South East more often than most

Melbourne’s South East ranks as the ‘luckiest’ lotto region in Australia, with the most division-one wins in the past financial year.

According to The Lott and Lotterywest data, the region sold 31 division-one winning tickets in 2022-’23, reaping more than $90 million.

This included a $50 million Oz Lotto winner sold at Hampton Park Lotto.

Springvale South/Dingley Village (3 win-

ners) and Endeavour Hills (3) were equal top postcodes in the nation.

Southvale Newsagency in Springvale South and Endeavour Lotto & News each sold three division one winning tickets worth more than $10 million collectively.

Victoria finished the financial year retaining the title of the state with the most division one wins: 137 worth more than $409 million in prize money.

The Lott spokesperson Matt Hart said he was keen to see if last financial year’s lottery hotspots continued their good fortune in FY24.

“Some players tell us they deliberately pick outlets that have recently sold a major lottery prize in the hope of continuing the winning streak, while other players choose different outlets, believing lightning won’t strike twice.”

Real Estate

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE AN EXISTING MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION ON ROOFTOP AT 856 – 868 HEATHERTON ROAD, SPRINGVALE SOUTH VIC - 3172 INCLUDING 5G

1.The proposed facility consist of the addition of new Vodafone and Optus 5G equipment and associated works as follows:

Three (3) Vodafone and Optus shared passive proposed new mounts;

•Installation of Three (3) Vodafone and Three (3) Optus 5G antennas not more than 1.2m in

•Installation of Twenty Four (24) Remote Radio Units (RRUs) installed onto the proposed new GPS antennas, steel works and other items associated with the safety and operation of the facility; and

as low impact under The Telecommunications

(Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 based on the description above.

3.In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Should you require further information or wish to comment, please contact: Abhishek Gampala from Nokia Solutions & Networks on 0413 809 856 or at by 5PM Tuesday 15 August 2023. Further information may also be obtained from www.rfnsa.com.au/3172002

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SPORT

Wood holds firm in a Rowville revival

By Marcus Uhe

A clutch goal from Nashua Wood moments before the final siren saw Rowville prevail in a second heart-stopper in three weeks by five points against South Croydon on Saturday.

At a ball-up deep in the Rowville forward 50 with the Hawks trailing by one point in the final minute of the contest, a South Croydon defender was forced to clear the ball from the danger zone rather than rush a behind, but his hurried kick sailed over the boundary line on the full.

Wood, the closest Hawk to the infringement, signalled his intent immediately by pointing to the goals as he awaited a spectator to retrieve the Sherrin at Cheong Park, preparing for a kick that would have major ramifications on the fate of the Hawks’ September aspirations.

Given Balwyn’s win over Berwick, losing would have resulted in the Hawks dropping to third place, where a top-two finish affords the chance to qualify for the last day in September with just a solitary victory, in the second week of the finals.

With time of the essence in the 26th minute, he reached the top of his approach against the fence and began the slow walk to goal almost immediately.

As he crossed the boundary line in the left forward pocket, Wood made a slight arc to his right to improve the angle and set sail with a drop punt on his right foot.

You could cut the tension in the air with a knife as the kick floated in its trajectory but there was no mistaking the roar from Rowville teammates and supporters as the ball traversed its way over the goal umpire’s hat, the Hawks snatching the lead 13.13 91 to 13.8 86.

When the final siren blew as the umpire made his way to the middle of the goal-face to signal for six points, Hawks teammates swamped the match-winner in the decisive pocketwhiletheirBulldogopponentsslumped to the turf in disbelief.

Where Rowville are in contention to earn a double-chance when finals begin in three weeks’ time, South Croydon are fighting for their survival in Premier Division, currently

ranked second last and in the dreaded ‘drop zone’ four points behind Park Orchards in 10th.

A win would have seen them leapfrog Park Orchards on percentage, but instead the battle continues.

Wood’s winner capped a remarkable comeback from the Hawks, who trailed by 20 points early in the final term of a game mired in momentum swings.

An upset brewed early in the contest as South Croydon led by 31 points at quarter time, powering away on the back of a six-goal run in the first quarter.

Rowville kicked two of the first three goals of the contest before the Bulldogs engaged and overwhelmed their higher-ranked opponents with ruthless efficiency inside the forward 50.

The change of ends worked wonders for the Hawks, who slammed on the first five of the second quarter in a blistering 18 minutes of football to snatch the lead late in the term, before South Croydon stopped the run with a major of its own.

Rowville took a one-point lead into the long

Thunder still rumble

By Marcus Uhe

break but then went goalless in the third quarter to trail by 15 at three-quarter-time, setting the scene for another famous comeback.

After the Bulldogs took the ball the length of the ground from a kick-out to open the quarter, Rowville responded through LachlanWynd and Jackson McDonald to cut the lead to eight points.

South Croydon answered back with what would come to be its final goal of the afternoon to restore a 14-point buffer at the halfway point of the term, desperate to secure the four points for just the fourth time in 2023.

Copper Stainthorpe and other calm heads in the back half diffused a number of tense situations as two goals from MaverickTaylor kept the Hawks afloat in the critical contest, before Wood iced the contest at the death.

The decisive blow carried eerie similarities to Collingwood’s Jamie Elliott’s heroics against Essendon at the MCG in 2022, who broke Bomber hearts as the Magpies established their brand as comeback kings.

For a side that suffered two match-losing collapses in the final quarter in the first two weeks of the campaign against Noble Park and Balwyn, last-gasp victories against Doncaster East in round 13 and now South Croydon demonstrate learning and growth from such adversity.

Taylor (three) Wood and Wynd (two each) were the multiple goalkickers for the Hawks, with Wynd climbing back to the top of the leading goalkicker’s list on 44.

Midfielders Lachlan Stapleton, Anthony Brolic and Jackson McDonald starred for Ben Wise’s side, who weathered the absences of Jake Arundell and Tyler Edwards, who were selected for Box Hill and Casey, respectively, in round 19 of the VFL.

A grand final rematch against Noble Park awaits next week, with more than just revenge on the line in what is fast becoming a mustwatch contest in suburban football.

A Hawks victory would make it five in a row and 10 of its last 11, as well as make life particularly difficult for their opponents in their quest to stay alive in 2023 and defend its premiership, clinging to sixth place ahead of Blackburn, one game back.

Balwyn beat Berwick, Bulls back on track

By Marcus Uhe

Berwick’s late season revival came to a halt at the hands of Balwyn after a poor opening quarter in its contest at home on Saturday, all but closing the door on its chances of playing finals for the first time in the Eastern Football Netball League.

The Wickers, who had won their last four contests despite announcing they are on the hunt for a new senior coach in 2024, conceded the final four goals of the opening term to find themselves down by 25 points at the first break, a margin they were never able to fully recover.

The Tigers opened the second term with yet another goal at the Manuka road end to extend the margin to 30, before goals to Sam Hilton-Joyce and Jesse Cirulis before the long break reigned the gap back to 18 points.

Hilton-Joyce’s third cut the margin to 17 midway through the third but that was as close as the Wickers came to overrunning the Tigers, who finished 10.8 68 to 6.8 44 winners.

The first-quarter run from Brenton Sanderson’s Tigers proved the difference in the contest, with both sides only managing four goals beyond quarter time.

Hilton-Joyce, a mid-season recruit, has made a serious impression at Edwin Flack, goaling in every game (seven from four

matches) and named in the best on three of four outings.

Will Arthurson offered plenty of rebound from down-back while Jesse Cirulis continues his brilliant season on return from a year-ending knee injury in 2022.

The loss means Berwick are now reliant on percentage and other results falling its way in order to qualify for the top six.

Noble Park’s defeat of Park Orchards takes them to nine wins, three clear of Berwick’s six with three weeks remaining in the home and away season.

Berwick will have to win its last three matches, against East Ringwood, Doncaster East and Park Orchards, by considerable

margins, and need Noble Park to be thrashed in all three in the run home to have a chance, as well as for Blackburn and Norwood to win no-more than one and two matches, respectively.

Elsewhere, Noble Park are back on the winners list after losing its last two, thrashing Park Orchards by 61 points at home.

Eight goals to one in the first half put the contest out of reach for the travelling Sharks who appeared out of their depth in the bullring, the final score 13.12 90 to 3.11 29.

The Sharks kept the Bulls caged for the opening 10 minutes of the game before Harley Fairbank made an impact on return, showcasing his typical energy in the forward half of the ground.

The small forward kicked three in the space of 10 minutes in his first contest since round 11 against Doncaster East, with three and one to Tom Bower giving the Bulls the edge in the first term.

The trademark watertight Bulls defence didn’t allow a goal to the visitors until midway through the second quarter, by which point the home side had six.

It was two goals each in the third before the Bulls shut the gate in the fourth, kicking three goals to nil in the close.

Fairbank finished with four goals and Jackson Sketcher led from the front, as did key forward Liam Scott, who kicked two.

Dandenong Thunder remain an outside chance of qualifying for finals action in the NPL Victoria competition after a 1-0 win over Green Gully on Saturday night at home.

A tenacious run from midfielder Kasper Hallam saw him navigate multiple defenders and force his way into the penalty box before he was brought down by an opponent and awarded a penalty in the 65th minute.

Striker Grad Damen took the responsibility from the penalty spot, drilling the ball into the bottom right corner as his nemesis on the goalline went the other way.

It’s a third consecutive win for the Thunder as they fight for a spot in the top six, having thrashed North Geelong 6-0 and Moreland City 4-0 in their previous two contests while maintaining clean sheets.

Damen scored a hattrick against North Geelong and Hallam netted two, while it was Sam Lochhead with a brace against Moreland City inflicting the major damage.

Damen’s recent scoring run has him tied for third on the leading goalscorer’s table with 12, six behind Altona Magic’s Jonas Marcovski.

With just two rounds remaining in the NPL competition, the Thunder face an uphill battle to qualify for the finals.

Dandenong sits in eighth position on 33 points, trailing Green Gully in seventh (37 points) and Altona Magic in sixth (38).

David Chick’s side needs to win its final two matches of the season and for both Green Gully and Altona Magic to not claim any points from its remaining two fixtures.

With matches to come against Melbourne Knights away and Hume City at home in the final two weeks, the equation looks a tall task, before factoring the requirement from other sides.

The fourth-placed Knights got the better of theThunder at George Andrews Reserve 1-0 back in round 12, while it was the Thunder prevailing 2-0 against Hume City in their earlier clash this season.

There’ll be no action next weekend, with the Thunder to next take the pitch against the Knights on Sunday 13 August at Knights Stadium in Sunshine. However, their destiny could already be decided, depending on the outcome of Altona Magic’s clash with Bentleigh Greens on Saturday night.

Key-forward Liam Scott kicked two for Noble Park against Park Orchards. 348935

Picture: ROB CAREW

Dandenong Thunder captain Harry Ashcroft fights to maintain possession. 235924 Picture: ROB CAREW

Nashua Wood (tackled) kicked the matchwinner for Rowville against South Croydon.

328960

Picture: ROB CAREW

Redlegs take journey West

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Southern Football Netball League Division 4 club Dandenong is set to return to its original Dandenong West identity from 2024.

The club, currently known as the Redlegs, is doing so to better connect itself with its history.

Informal discussions about a return to the Dandy West moniker have been ongoing for the best part of the last decade at the club.

Vice president Justin Smith put it more seriously on the radar towards the end of last year.

He believes the time is right to return to the traditional nickname.

“I feel like under the Redlegs we had no identity or place or sense of purpose,” Smith said.

“You go to other clubs and hear them speaking about past players and history, which I felt was missing under the Redlegs banner, the name and identity.

“A few older blokes pop their heads in every now and then and put the idea forward that a lot of past players and supporters would get involved and reinvigorate that identity, and I think it is a now or never time.

“We’re heading in a new direction as a club under Mick Lawrence, the current senior coach, who has played under the Dandy West banner as a young kid, and we have lot of people back involved at our club so there’s no better time.”

In 2024, the jumper will still have the Redlegs logo before a more permanent change is sought in 2025.

Smith added that the club changing its guernseys for the 2022 season, its 60th year, cemented the idea.

The club also hopes the change will lead to

an increased connection with the Dandenong West Cricket Club.

This year is Lawrence’s second as coach and he has overseen a youth-led change at a club dominated by veterans in their mid-30s

in recent years.

Some of Dandenong’s best performers in 2023 have been goal kicker Brandon Nolan, recruit Hayden Egerton, fullback Lenny Van Schaik and young halfback Riley Lawrence.

The Redlegs have upset top four sides Hampton and Moorabbin in the last month, and led ladder leaders South Mornington at three-quarter-time on the weekend, before being overrun.

Bloods pass Caulfield test to charge to APS premiership

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Mitch Kirkwood-Elliott?

The setup play might not have been the same, but Haileybury’s Mitch Kirkwood-Scott had the same steady coolness and converted from a similar spot to the Pies clutch king to essentially win his school the APS grand final.

The game was billed as a grand final with both sides entering the penultimate round of the home and away season as the only remaining with unblemished records.

With four minutes to play, the Bloods trailed by less than a goal when skipper Charlie Harrop had a set shot that sailed through for a behind.

The Caulfield defender’s kick-in went out on the full after travelling 60 metres towards the visitors goals at Haileybury’s Berwick campus.

Then Kirkwood-Scott, Talent League listed, owned the moment, roosting it with the strong breeze to give Haileybury the lead for the first time since early in the first quarter.

That moment cued a thunderous roar from the strong Bloods crowd as destiny seemed to script a premiership.

But the Matthew Lloyd coached team still had three more minutes to fight.

Caulfield got one last look inside 50 but the Haileybury defence held out.

A quick transition and some smarts from Harrop allowed Haileybury a stoppage inside 50 and Liam George soon converted a set shot to extend the margin beyond a goal.

It was George’s third goal after he kicked two early ones in a competitive first quarter. Haileybury trailed by 13 at the first break despite being the better team for much of the quarter, and that deficit stretched to 33 in the third quarter before the chase started for the highly regarded private school.

X-factor Taj Hotton kicked one around the corner late in the third quarter to embed hope, as Haileybury went into the last break 17 points down.

Harrop took a contested mark early in the last quarter to continue his team’s momentum.

From there, they felt on top.

Sam Shinsky got them within a goal, before the Kirkwood-Scott magic.

Assistant coached by Scott Pendlebury, Haileybury, in the biggest game of the year, played out a narrative their assistant coach is well accustomed to.

Dandenong under-16s big man Tairon Ah-Mu was nearly the player to give them the lead with a kick on the run from 60 that veered into the post.

The Bloods were able to do it without Armstrong, a star goalkicker with bags of four

(three times), six and nine this season.

Talent League players involved for Haileybury included: Lachie Giliam, Jesse Craven, Dan Pinter, Charlie Rowe, Ziggy Nosiara, George, Harrop, Harry Armstrong, Hotton, Ah Mu, vice captain Archie Roberts and Kirkwood-Scott.

Young Dingley play-maker Mitch Cook was also in action, a key part of the Haileybury engine room.

Final score: Haileybury 8.9 57 vs Caulfield Grammar7.749

Haileybury premiership squad: Charlie Harrop, Will McPhee, Mitch Cook, Scanlan Lynch, Ky Allcock, Hayden Brown, Max Poulios, Mitch Kirkwood-Scott, Archie Roberts, Jesse Craven, Tom Wakelin, Liam George, Jackson Muscillo, Jasper Russell, Josh Docking, Charlie Rowe, Nick Cleary, ArchieWilson, Sam Shinsky, Dan Pinter, Flynn Gregor, Denzel Toland, Lachie Giliam, Alex Russell, James Blight, Ziggy Nosiara, Jack Lawrence, Arkie Daniel-Reid, Harry Armstrong. Louis Hodder, Taj Hotton, Tom Antonis, Tairon Ah-Mu

Haileybury’sLiamGeorgewasthemostpotentthreatinside50onthe day. 350353

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Haileybury’scheersquadwaslikea19thmanonthesidelines.

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